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Envision Energy Tops S&P Global 2025 Tier 1 Cleantech Companies for Wind and Energy Storage Excellence

SHANGHAI, Sept. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Envision Energy, a global leader in green technology, has been named both a Tier 1 Wind Turbine Supplier and a Tier 1 Battery Energy Storage System Supplier on S&P Global Commodity Insights’ inaugural 2025 Tier 1 Cleantech Companies list. This recognition highlights Envision’s strong global market presence, solid financial performance, and industry-leading sustainability practices, reinforcing its role as a trusted partner in the global transition to net zero.

The S&P Global list spotlights the world’s most reliable clean-energy manufacturers across PV modules, PV inverters, wind turbines, and BESS. Companies must meet thresholds across at least four of six key dimensions: market presence, market share, scale, global diversification, financial strength, and sustainability, based on proprietary  S&P data.

“As the first supplier classification to embed sustainability as one of the key criteria, our Tier 1 list is designed to help cleantech manufacturers stand out in a crowded field, and to support developers and offtakers in identifying reliable partners.” said Edurne Zoco, Ph.D., Executive Director of Research and Analysis, Clean Energy Technology, S&P Global Commodity Insights.

As energy ecosystems accelerate toward net zero, Envision Energy has emerged as a trusted partner combining technology innovation with integrated renewable solutions. Its wind business ranks among the world’s top turbine manufacturers for both orders and installations, expanding rapidly into international markets such as Australia and Turkey in 2025. Its in-house R&D and manufacturing power next-generation platforms including the Model T Pro, Model Z Pro, and a breakthrough two-blade prototype that has surpassed 500 days of stable operation while delivering cost efficiency, easier transport, and modular deployment.

In energy storage, Envision has risen to 4th globally, one of the few integrators to grow market share even as the combined share of the top five fell from 62% in 2022 to 48% in 2024. The company has delivered more than 30 GWh of storage capacity and secured over 50 GWh in new orders, with 300+ projects deployed worldwide. Its full-stack solutions, from battery cells to EMS and grid-forming systems, enable frequency regulation, renewable integration, and black-start capability, helping partners build clean, reliable, and intelligent grids.

With its outstanding sustainability performance, recognized with an EcoVadis Gold Medal and placement on the CDP Climate Change A List (top 2% globally), Envision’s inclusion on the S&P Global Tier 1 list further underscores its leadership in global wind and energy storage innovation and capability to deliver safe, high-performing, and scalable energy solutions that accelerate the world’s journey to net zero.

ROHM Releases New Compact PFC + Flyback Control Reference Design for Power

KYOTO, Japan, Sept. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — ROHM Co., Ltd. has developed a new reference design (REF67004) that uses a single MCU to control two commonly used power-converter types for consumer and industrial power supplies: critical-conduction-mode PFC (power factor correction) and quasi-resonant flyback. Part of ROHM’s LogiCoA(TM) power supply solution, it leverages analog-digital hybrid control, pairing an analog power stage using ROHM silicon MOSFETs and gate-driver ICs with a digitally managed supply built around the low-power LogiCoA(TM) MCU.

Product features:
https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M106254/202509034506/_prw_PI1fl_OxSTnM22.jpg 

Analog-controlled power supply is widely used in small- to medium-power industrial applications, such as industrial robots and semiconductor-manufacturing equipment. Rising reliability and precision demands strain pure analog designs. Fully digital supply offers precise control and configurability, but adoption in this range is limited by controller cost and power consumption.

ROHM’s LogiCoA(TM) power supply solution addresses these challenges with a hybrid approach that integrates analog and digital control. It pairs ROHM power devices and gate drivers with low-power LogiCoA(TM) MCUs. As a first step, ROHM released the REF66009 evaluation design for a non-isolated buck converter, followed by REF67004 combining PFC and flyback.

LogiCoA(TM) power supply solution reference design lineup:
https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M106254/202509034506/_prw_PI2fl_284ox573.jpg 

– PFC + Flyback Converter: https://www.rohm.com/reference-designs/ref67004
– Buck Converter: https://www.rohm.com/reference-designs/ref66009 

REF67004 boosts AC input via critical-conduction-mode PFC, then uses a quasi-resonant flyback to deliver a regulated 24V DC output. A calibration function compensates for variations in external component characteristics, enabling high-precision voltage setting and overcurrent protection. Tighter design margins permit smaller, lower-power devices and inductors, reducing PCB area and system cost.

REF67004 logs operating data — input/output voltage, current, temperature, pre-shutdown status, and cumulative operating time — into on-chip non-volatile memory. Parameters and history can be configured and retrieved from a PC via UART (with a signal-conversion device) using sample programs, including the RMOS (Real-time Micro Operating System) power control OS, available on ROHM’s website. Practical evaluation is supported by the LogiCoA003-EVK-001 reference design board. ROHM will continue providing reference designs to accelerate customer power supply development.

Release: https://www.rohm.com/news-detail?news-title=2025-08-21_news_reference-design&defaultGroupId=false 

About LogiCoA(TM) brand: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/attach/202509034506-O1-8v9pHQ9Y.pdf 

Application examples
The LogiCoA(TM) power supply solution suits industrial and consumer devices requiring approximately 50W to 1kW.
– Industrial robots
– Semiconductor-manufacturing equipment
– Gaming devices

About ROHM: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/attach/202509034506-O2-D83d59EH.pdf 

Logo:
https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M106254/202509034506/_prw_PI3fl_wLEjjnP6.jpg 

Official website: https://www.rohm.com/ 

Grace Lu rejoining Russell Reynolds Associates Singapore as Managing Director for Healthcare Practice

SINGAPORE, Sept. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Russell Reynolds Associates (RRA), the leading global leadership advisory firm, is pleased to announce that Grace Lu is rejoining the Singapore office as a senior member of the Healthcare Practice. Previously based in Beijing, Grace returns to Singapore to lead the firm’s Healthcare Practice across Asia Pacific, further strengthening the firm’s commitment to delivering transformative leadership solutions for healthcare organisations.

Grace Lu, APAC lead of Healthcare Practice, Russell Reynold Associates
Grace Lu, APAC lead of Healthcare Practice, Russell Reynold Associates

Grace is recognised for her deep expertise in healthcare, advising multinational and local organisations on executive recruitment, leadership assessment, and organisational transformation. Her proven track record in strategy and management consulting has enabled clients to navigate complex market dynamics and drive innovation in patient-centric care. Grace’s insights and experience will be instrumental as healthcare organisations across Asia Pacific address evolving challenges and opportunities.

“We are thrilled to welcome Grace back to Singapore,” said Euan Kenworthy, who oversees RRA’s operations in Southeast Asia. “Her return brings invaluable continuity and deep sector knowledge to our team. Grace’s leadership and passion for healthcare underscores our commitment to delivering transformative leadership solutions for healthcare organisations in the region.”

Reflecting on her return, Grace Lu said, “I am truly excited to be rejoining the Singapore team and reconnecting with colleagues and clients in this dynamic market. Having spent time in China, I hope to bring fresh perspectives and renewed energy to help our healthcare clients navigate the opportunities and challenges ahead. I look forward to contributing to the continued growth and impact of our healthcare practice here.”

Ulrike Wieduwilt, Greater China Country Leader at RRA, added, “We thank Grace for her outstanding leadership and dedication during her time in Beijing. Her leadership has been instrumental in advancing our healthcare practice in Greater China. While we will miss her presence in Greater China, we are excited for her as she returns to Singapore. I know she will continue to make a significant impact, and we look forward to collaborating across the region.”

Grace received her BS in economics from the London School of Economics and Political Science, her MS in international policy studies from Stanford University and her MBA from the London Business School.

About Russell Reynolds Associates

Russell Reynolds Associates is a global leadership advisory firm. Our 500+ consultants in 47 offices work with public, private, and nonprofit organisations across all industries and regions. We help our clients build teams of transformational leaders who can meet today’s challenges and anticipate the digital, economic, sustainability, and political trends that are reshaping the global business environment. From helping boards with their structure, culture, and effectiveness to identifying, assessing and defining the best leadership for organisations, our teams bring their decades of expertise to help clients address their most complex leadership issues. We exist to improve the way the world is led. Find out more at www.russellreynolds.com

Laura Villars, Swiss racing driver, becomes the first woman to run for FIA President

PARIS, Sept. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Laura Villars, Swiss racing driver aged 28, officially announces her candidacy for the Presidency of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA). She becomes the first woman in FIA history to seek this office, marking a historic milestone for motorsport and sports governance alike.

Laura Villars
Laura Villars

“The FIA must once again be the federation of clubs and license holders. My ambition is a governance that is more democratic, more transparent, more responsible, and open to women and new generations. I strongly believe that motorsport needs diversity and innovation to keep inspiring younger generations worldwide,” said Laura Villars.

An international racing career

  • 58 race starts across Ultimate Cup Series F3R, F4 UAE, Ferrari Challenge Europe, and Ligier European Series.
  • 5th overall in her first full season in Ultimate Cup Series F3R (2023).
  • Recent entries: F4 UAE (Abu Dhabi) 2023; F4 Saudi Arabia 2024; Ferrari Challenge Europe Trofeo Pirelli AM (296 Challenge – Ladies Trophy) 2024.
  • Currently competing in Ligier European Series JS P4 with Team Virage (2025).

A pivotal election

The FIA presidential election will be held on 12 December 2025, during the General Assembly in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Incumbent Mohammed Ben Sulayem is seeking a second term; former FIA steward Tim Mayer has also announced his candidacy.

A clear and innovative agenda

  • Empower clubs through regular consultations and participatory governance.
  • Strengthen transparency in finance and decision-making.
  • Introduce a “FIA Eco-Performance” label recognizing sustainability leadership.
  • Enhance the Women in Motorsport program (Girls on Track, mentoring) and establish a FIA Young Leaders Academy.
  • Position the FIA as a global benchmark in sustainable mobility and road safety.

About Laura Villars

Born 29 August 1997 in Switzerland, Laura Villars is a racing driver and entrepreneur. She advocates for women and youth in motorsport, embodying a new generation of independent, modern, responsible leadership.

Official website: www.lauravillars.ch

Laura Villars racing
Laura Villars racing

 

 

Wind Power Project in Savannakhet Nears Completion, on Track for Commercial Operation by End of 2025

Savan 1 Wind Power Plant in Nong and Phin districts in Savannakhet Province. (Photo credit: Savannakhet radio)

The Savan 1 Wind Power Project in Savannakhet reached 85 percent completion and is expected to begin commercial operations by the end of 2025, with electricity set to be exported to Vietnam, Savannakhet Radio reported.

Located across Phin and Nong districts, the project has a planned installed capacity of 300 megawatts (MW) in its first phase, comprising 48 wind turbines standing 130 meters tall with 83-meter blades. 

As of September, 29 turbines have been installed, alongside substantial progress on access roads, site preparation, and transmission line construction, according to Savannakhet authorities.

The project’s total capacity will reach 495 MW, with an overall investment of approximately USD 768 million. Phase one alone represents more than USD 490 million in investment and will supply electricity to Vietnam under a 25-year export contract.

Approved by the Lao government in September 2024, the project has completed key works, including detailed design, transportation of equipment, and installation of a 220-kilovolt (kV) transmission line. Current activities focus on turbine foundations, installation, a 220 kV substation, a 35 kV transmission line, and permanent facilities.

Phase two will add 32 turbines with a combined capacity of 195 MW, with commercial operations expected by 2027. 

In Savannakhet, another large-scale wind power project is underway in Nong district. The Lao government in February 2025 signed an agreement with Chitchareune Construction Co., Ltd. to develop a 1,200 MW wind power plant, targeting electricity exports to Vietnam from late 2027. 

The total investment is approximately USD 1.9 billion. Phase one is expected to begin exporting electricity by the end of 2027, followed by phase two in 2030.

The feasibility study will be finalized, and the project concession contract is expected to be signed in the second quarter 2026.

Recently, in late August, Laos launched Southeast Asia’s largest onshore wind farm, the 600-megawatts Monsoon Wind Power Project, spanning Dak Cheung District in Sekong and Sanxay District in Attapeu. 

This Asia-first cross-border renewable energy venture also delivers electricity to Vietnam.

Monsoon Wind Power Project, spanning Dak Cheung District in Sekong and Sanxay District in Attapeu, Southern Laos. (Photo credit: Monsoon Wind Power)

Joint Industry Proposal of All-Scenario Grid Forming Initiative Accelerates Wind and Solar as Main Power

SHENZHEN, China, Sept. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — During the International Digital Energy Expo (IDEE) 2025, China Energy Research Society, Global Solar Council (GSC), and Huawei Digital Power co-hosted the Global Low-Carbon Industry Forum themed “All-Scenario Grid Forming Technology, Accelerating Wind and Solar Power as Main Power Sources.” At the event, industry leaders from government energy departments, power grid companies, energy enterprises, standards organizations, and industry associations around the world gathered to discuss the development status and future prospects of the renewable energy industry, as well as the practical application of the all-scenario grid forming technology worldwide and its profound impact on the renewable energy industry. At the forum, the participants jointly proposed the all-scenario grid forming initiative. The initiative aims to close the global energy divide by further implementing the all-scenario grid forming technology, delivering clean and stable power to all and building a better, greener future.

Inaugural ceremony for the all-scenario grid forming initiative
Inaugural ceremony for the all-scenario grid forming initiative

At the opening of the forum, Hou Jinlong, Director of the Board of Huawei, President of Huawei Digital Power, remarked: “Looking ahead, energy storage will grow rapidly and integrate deeply with wind and solar power, transforming them into stable and reliable energy sources. In this transition, the most critical areas of innovation include grid forming technologies, AI technologies, and high-quality products that deliver performance throughout the lifecycle. The all-scenario grid forming technology will accelerate wind, solar, and energy storage as the main power sources. AI will transition from the auxiliary system into the production system, making wind, solar, and energy storage plants truly autonomous. High quality throughout the product lifecycle is the cornerstone for sustainable and healthy development of the renewable energy industry. Huawei Digital Power will adhere to technological innovation and the principle of quality first, and work with peers across the industry to improve the industry standards and close the global energy divide, delivering green, stable, and affordable power to all.”

Hou Jinlong, Director of the Board of Huawei, President of Huawei Digital Power, delivering a speech
Hou Jinlong, Director of the Board of Huawei, President of Huawei Digital Power, delivering a speech

Following Development Trends and Promoting the Transition Toward a Green Energy Mix

  • Xiang Haiping, Chief Expert of China Energy Research Society, Vice President of China Society for Hydropower Engineering shared an overview of the status quo and anticipated trajectory of China’s energy transformation and development.
  • Andrés Rebolledo, Executive Secretary of the Latin American Energy Organization (OLADE), introduced the transformation from traditional power grids to smart and resilient systems in Latin America.
  • Dato’ Ir. Ts. Razib Dawood, Executive Director of the ASEAN Centre for Energy (ACE), stated that ASEAN is ready to enhance its renewable energy supply and power grid integration to meet the demand for corporate net-zero commitments, attract new investments, and bolster economic competitiveness.
  • Peter Wall, Head of Grids Research of BloombergNEF, shared the future of grid stability. He believed that as the proportion of renewable energy in the energy mix continues to rise, the inertia of the power system is experiencing a sharp decline. Synchronous condensers and grid forming ESSs have emerged as critical technologies for providing inertia support. Meanwhile, inverters have proven indispensable in ensuring grid stability.

Following Grid Operators and Standards and Empowering a New Power System

  • Wang Jifeng, Former Chief Engineer of China Southern Power Grid, focused on the development of a new power system. He stated that energy and electric power are critical to achieving carbon neutrality.
  • Li Jian, Chief Engineer of State Grid Energy Research Institute Co., Ltd, shared how technological innovation can fuel the high-quality development in the energy and electricity sector.
  • Ansgar Hinz, CEO and Chairman of the Board of VDE, presented the global grid forming and standardization approach and high-quality industry development.

Building a High-Quality Development Path for the Renewable Energy Industry with Grid Forming Technologies and Global Applications

  • Steven Zhou, President of Smart PV & ESS Product Line, Huawei Digital Power, shared the all-scenario grid forming solutions and applications through Huawei’s innovation journey in string architecture, digital technologies, and grid forming technologies.
  • Dennis B. Jordan, President and CEO of MGEN Renewable Energy, Inc. and Terra Solar Philippines, Inc., introduced MTerra Solar as the world’s largest integrated PV and BESS Grid Forming infrastructure project, including 3.5 GW PV and 4.5 GWh GFM BESS.
  • Wang Haiyun, General Manager of Technology Innovation Department, Xizang Development and Investment Group Co., Ltd., presented the commercial operation practice of the 30 MW PV + 6 MW/24 MWh grid forming ESS project in Gertse County, Xizang.
  • José Donoso, CEO of Spanish Photovoltaic Association (UNEF) and Co-Chair of Global Solar Council (GSC), shared his thoughts and practices on the Spanish power system mechanism.
  • Urban Windelen, Executive Director of German Energy Storage Systems Association (BVES), shared Germany’s experience in developing its energy storage electricity market mechanisms, highlighting the country’s position as a key player in Europe.

Global Safety Ratings Reach Record High

73% of adults feel safe walking alone at night; wide gender and regional gaps remain

WASHINGTON, Sept. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — In a year marked by unprecedented global conflict, more people reported feeling safe than ever before. Gallup’s 2025 Global Safety Report finds that 73% of adults worldwide report feeling safe walking alone at night where they live, the highest level recorded since Gallup began tracking in 2006.

Safety Gains in Several Regions

Gains in Asia-Pacific, Western Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean, and sub-Saharan Africa largely drove the increase. Latin America and the Caribbean reached a milestone: for the first time, 50% of residents now say they feel safe walking at night.

“Even amid conflict and uncertainty, people around the world are building safer communities from the ground up,” said Jon Clifton, Gallup CEO. “These findings show that safety isn’t only the absence of violence, it’s the presence of trust, institutions and collective resilience.”

Singapore Leads World in Safety

Singapore ranked No. 1 globally for perceived safety, with 98% of residents saying they feel safe walking alone at night. This marks the 12th time Singapore has topped the list. In contrast, South Africa reported the lowest safety perception in the world, with just 33% of adults feeling safe. Neighboring countries Lesotho and Botswana followed closely at 34%.

Wide Gaps Remain by Gender

Gender-based differences in safety perceptions also remain pronounced. Globally, 67% of women said they feel safe walking alone at night, compared with 78% of men. In more than 100 countries and territories, the gender gap in safety perceptions exceeded 10 percentage points. Several high-income countries, including the U.S., Australia and multiple European Union member states, had some of the largest gender disparities, with gaps of 26 points or more. 

In the U.S., 71% of adults said they feel safe walking at night, which aligns with ratings in the past several years. Still, the U.S. has one of the largest gender disparities among high-income nations. Fifty-eight percent of women reported feeling safe, compared with 84% of men.

GCC Countries Dominate Top 10 Safest List

Five of the 10 countries with the highest safety perceptions in 2024 were members of the Gulf Cooperation Council: Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates. Safety ratings in each of these countries exceed 90%.

New Partnership Brings Data and Policy Together

Gallup partnered with the Center on International Cooperation (CIC) at New York University to produce this report. The collaboration combines Gallup’s global data with CIC’s expertise in violence prevention and peacebuilding. Together, the organizations highlight how local-level efforts, strong institutions and targeted policies can improve safety across all regions.

“Gallup’s findings confirm what we often see in our research: even amid rising conflict, people’s sense of safety is deeply connected to their local communities,” said Daniel Friedman, Program Director at CIC. “Understanding what makes people feel safe—and how decision makers can work together to foster that sense of security—is essential to creating more resilient and peaceful societies, and it shows that positive change is possible.”

About Gallup

Gallup delivers analytics and advice to help leaders and organizations solve their most pressing problems. Combining more than 80 years of experience with its global reach, Gallup knows more about the attitudes and behaviors of the world’s constituents than any other organization.

About NYU’s Center on International Cooperation (CIC)

The Center on International Cooperation (CIC) at NYU is a think tank and research center that, for over two decades, has been a leader in applied policy, connecting politics, security, justice, development, and humanitarian issues.

Pollo AI Unveils The Next-Gen AI Product Avatar Video Generator for Studio-Quality Product Videos

SINGAPORE, Sept. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Pollo AI is thrilled to announce the launch of its groundbreaking AI product avatar video generator, which builds on the success of its recently introduced AI avatar video generator, enabling brands, marketers, and creators to produce studio–quality product videos in minutes.

With Pollo AI Product Avatar, users simply upload a product image and choose from an extensive range of preset avatars tailored to diverse industries, including Beauty, Education, Gaming, Health, Marketing, News, Professional, and Sports. Alternatively, users have the flexibility to upload their own avatar images.

No filming, pre–training, or pre-recorded footage is required; Pollo AI Product Avatar transforms static images into professional product videos that resonate on a deeply human level, in just a few clicks.

To streamline production even further, Pollo AI Product Avatar offers a growing library of avatar video templates across categories such as beauty, furniture, handbags, accessories, and more. Users can customize these templates to match their brand tone and messaging instantly.

Emma Chen, Pollo AI’s Chief Product Officer, shared, “What sets this AI avatar generator apart are its ultra-lifelike avatars, complete with expressive emotions, natural gestures, and flawless lip-sync, making product storytelling more engaging and relatable.”

Users can easily switch between Standard Mode, which supports concise clips, and Longer Mode, which accommodates videos up to two minutes, exceeding the capabilities of most AI video generators available today. This allows users to develop more in-depth marketing content, tutorials, and product placements.

In celebration of the launch, Pollo AI is offering an exclusive 50% discount for all users. For a limited time, users can create avatar videos with HALF the usual credit consumption. Don’t miss out. Try it now here: https://pollo.ai/ai-product-avatar

Media Contact
Emma Chen
Chief Product Officer, Pollo AI
support@pollo.ai