Carbon Brief·climate·8 minDeBriefed 8 May 2026: EU eyes fossil-fuel exemptions | Wind and solar save UK ‘£1.7bn’ | Amazon ‘tipping point’
The European Commission is contemplating amendments to its methane emissions regulations, potentially allowing fossil-fuel companies to avoid penalties. This change would enable national authorities to grant exemptions based on energy security needs, a move seen as favorable for the oil and gas sector amid increasing pressure from the Trump administration.
In Norway, the government has faced backlash for reopening three North Sea gasfields, which had been closed for nearly thirty years. This decision is framed as a response to energy supply challenges stemming from the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Additionally, Norway has approved exploration for 70 new oil and gas locations across various seas.
Investment in renewable energy is surging, with over £3 billion poured into clean-power funds in April alone, marking the fastest growth in five years. This influx is driven by a global shift towards energy security and alternatives to fossil fuels, as highlighted by a report indicating that solar and wind power, when combined with battery storage, are now providing reliable electricity at lower costs than traditional fossil fuel systems in many regions.
In the UK, record generation from wind and solar has saved the country approximately £1.7 billion in gas imports since the start of the Iran war, avoiding the need for significant liquified natural gas shipments. Meanwhile, new research warns that small increases in global temperatures, coupled with deforestation, could push the Amazon rainforest past a critical tipping point, transitioning large areas into dry savannah. Current deforestation rates are concerning, as around 17% of the Amazon has already been lost, with a critical threshold of 22-28% looming.
As global sea temperatures reach near-record highs, scientists express concern over the potential for an intense El Niño event, which could exacerbate extreme weather patterns. The upcoming Santa Marta summit in Colombia will focus on transitioning away from fossil fuels, with observers keen to see if it results in actionable commitments rather than mere rhetoric.
Grist·climate·6 min