A recent 10-year outlook from the National Energy System Operator( Neso) warns that by 2035, the UK could emit nearly a third more carbon than required for a credible net-zero plan.

The report predicts that carbon emissions will reach 274 million tonnes by 2035, far surpassing the 185 – 204 million tonnes range needed to stay on course.

It marks the second official warning within a month, following a report from the Committee on Climate Change that highlighted weak or inadequate policies across 40 per cent of the necessary emissions

MYANMAR is paving the way for a cleaner future for its rice industry by adopting solar-powered energy systems across its rice mills.

In a major step towards sustainable agriculture, the Myanmar Rice Federation( MRF) is leading the transition, with 28 rice mills across Yangon, Ayeyarwady, Bago, and Nay Pyi Taw scheduled to implement solar power during the 2025 – 26 financial year. Four mills have already completed installation.

This clean energy initiative is part of Myanmar ' s broader strategy to enhance the environmental performance of its main export commodity while reinforcing its position in international markets.

Countries such as China and several European nations, which currently import over 1.2 million tonnes of rice from Myanmar each year, are increasingly demanding low-carbon, sustainable products. Solar-powered milling not only

reductions.

Neso ' s analysis relies on current energy project pipelines and policy commitments, not on aspirational modelling. It highlights a growing gap between the UK ' s current trajectory and the pace needed to reach its net-zero targets.

The report states that halving emissions by 2035 will only be achievable through accelerated, widespread adoption of low-carbon technologies, spanning industrial systems, residential heating, and transport.

Although the government aims for 148 gigawatts( GW) of renewable capacity by 2035, this still falls short of the 170 – 190 GW required in netzero scenarios. Without a stronger emphasis on renewables, the UK risks locking in higher emissions and compromising both environmental targets and energy security.

meets these demands but can also secure better prices for exporters.

The environmental advantages are evident. Solar energy reduces diesel use by up to 70 per cent, resulting in lower emissions, operational expenses, and noise pollution.

Unlike diesel generators, solar systems do not release harmful gases that could affect rice quality, providing both environmental and product performance gains.

The economic impact is equally positive. With reliable access to solar

Public investment remains a significant concern. Recent political rhetoric has cast doubt on ongoing support for net-zero policies, with opposition parties vowing to dismantle climate commitments. Nonetheless, the government insists it is already laying " strong foundations " by fast-tracking clean energy projects, investing £ 40 billion in private sector renewables, launching the Great British Energy initiative, and upgrading homes to enhance energy efficiency.

Nonetheless, the momentum may still fall short. Climate advocates emphasise the importance of boosting energy efficiency, electrifying transport, and enabling citizens to select low-carbon options.

As the UK progresses towards 2035, the decisions made now will shape its climate legacy and the quality of its future living conditions.

Solar Rooftop: Solar panels installed on the roof of a rice mill.

electricity, mills can operate at full capacity, independent of unreliable grid power or expensive diesel alternatives. Factory managers report that solar energy ensures consistent production and significant savings in both fuel and maintenance costs.

MRF has signed Memoranda of Understanding with 17 Chinese solar firms, with additional partnerships in progress, to access China ' s solar technology expertise and meet local technical and commercial needs.

INDONESIA ' S solar panel producers remain mostly unaffected by a new wave of trade petitions from the United States, which could result in new tariffs.

\ While leading US solar manufacturers are advocating protectionist measures against imports they deem unfairly priced or subsidised- especially those from Southeast Asia- Indonesian producers believe their local market has sufficient potential to consume domestically produced solar panels.

The US petitions, submitted by the American Alliance for Solar Manufacturing Trade Committee, allege that Chinese solar manufacturers are circumventing tariffs by relocating their production to countries such as Indonesia, Laos, and India.

A decision by the US Department of Commerce on whether to launch a formal investigation is expected within weeks. If approved, the case could result in antidumping duties, like those imposed on Cambodia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam earlier this year.

Indonesia, however, has recognised an opportunity in the evolving solar supply chain. As exports from the four previously sanctioned nations declined, Indonesia and Laos swiftly gained momentum, together accounting for 44 per cent of US solar imports by May 2025, up from just under two per cent a year earlier.

Nevertheless, Indonesia ' s solar manufacturers are focusing on expanding the domestic market rather than relying on unpredictable exports. Industry leaders believe that with sufficient government support and policy incentives, Indonesia ' s vast renewable energy potential- boosted by its population and geography- can grow into a thriving local market for clean energy.- @ green