Latest news with #REPowerEU
Budapest Times
26-05-2025
- Business
- Budapest Times
PM Orbán: Brussels wants to hurt Russia more than help European families
Speaking on the 'Good Morning, Hungary!' program, the prime minister criticized EU leaders for pushing forward with energy sanctions against Russia, despite the direct financial burden this imposes on households across the continent. 'Instead of lowering energy costs, Brussels is focused on punishing Russia,' said Prime Minister Orbán, calling the REPowerEU initiative 'nonsensical.' This EU strategy aims to phase out Russian oil, gas, and nuclear energy imports by the end of the year. Under these plans, member states must submit national strategies to eliminate Russian energy dependence. PM Orbán warned that for Hungary, the consequences would be severe: Annual costs would rise by HUF 800 billion if Russian gas were replaced with more expensive alternatives. According to him, this would mean that 'electricity bills would double, and heating costs would quadruple.' He noted that Ukraine's closure of traditional gas and oil transit routes had further complicated matters. However, he credited the Hungarian government's prior efforts to construct new pipeline systems with safeguarding national energy security. 'Without those developments, Hungary would now be without affordable energy—or any energy at all,' he emphasized Turning to the issue of Ukraine's bid for European Union membership, Prime Minister Orbán reiterated his firm opposition. He argued that Ukraine's long-term goal of sustaining a million-strong army poses a serious financial and security challenge to Europe. 'It won't be the Ukrainians paying for this army. It will be us, Europeans,' he said, cautioning that supporting Ukraine's EU accession would divert resources from strengthening Western European defense forces. He also flagged increased Ukrainian intelligence activities within Hungary, noting, 'We are prepared to neutralize these threats.' The prime minister also warned of growing pressure from domestic opposition parties, particularly the Tisza Party, which he described as aligned with Ukrainian interests. He pointed to their internal vote in support of Ukraine's EU membership as evidence. 'They want to force Hungarians to support something that clearly goes against our national interest,' PM Orbán said. He stressed the importance of the ongoing Voks 2025 public consultation as well, in which more than 1 million citizens have already participated. The government sees this as a referendum on the question of Ukrainian accession. 'I trust the Hungarian people will reaffirm our government's 'no',' he said. On domestic policy, PM Orbán outlined a family-centered budget for the coming year. He pledged that from October 2025, mothers with three children will be exempt from personal income tax. This benefit will expand in stages: by January 2026 to mothers under 40 with two children, and eventually to all mothers under 50. 'This is not just a financial policy; it's a vision for strengthening the nation through families,' he explained. The prime minister also addressed the proposed transparency law currently before Hungary's parliament. He argued that all political and media entities in Hungary should be prohibited from receiving foreign funding. 'We need to know who's speaking—whether it's the journalist, the editorial office, or the sponsor behind them,' he said. He noted that the law is particularly urgent given what he described as a surge in Ukrainian-friendly propaganda in Hungary. Finally, PM Orbán highlighted the government's industrial investment agenda, including the '150 factories program' and the landmark BYD electric vehicle plant. He called the Chinese investment a 'major success,' with 2,000 engineers set to work on developing new vehicles in Hungary. 'Electromobility is the future, and we're securing our place in it,' he concluded.
Budapest Times
16-05-2025
- Politics
- Budapest Times
Bóka: EC's initiative is harming bloc's competitiveness and putting energy security at risk
János Bóka, the minister for EU affairs, said the European Commission's initiative is harming the bloc's competitiveness and putting its energy security at risk. Minister Bóka said on Facebook that together with his Slovak counterpart, they turned to the EC in a joint statement 'in the interest of Hungary and Slovakia's safe and affordable energy supply'. Minister Bóka said that the heads of state and government of the EU had tasked the EC with aiding European citizens' and companies' access to safe, reliable and affordable energy, 'but the Commission's schedule for REPowerEU is the direct opposite of those aims.' The joint statement called on the EC to prepare 'thorough, country-specific impact studies on energy security, energy prices and competitiveness; to engage in consultation with the most-hit member states to identify the adequate measures to fight damaging effects; to look into ways to compensate those member states for their costs in energy diversification; and to provide financial guarantees covering possible indemnity obligations resulting from the proposed legislations,' the post said. Minister Bóka warned that the EC's plans were directly impacting the energy security of member states, as well as their sovereign choice of energy mix, nuclear security and energy prices. Hungary and Slovakia stand by respecting the sovereignty and energy security of member states while implementing EU energy policies, he added. Member states must retain the right to decide over their energy mix, resources of procurement and their diversification, he said. Meanwhile, the signatories also warned the EC that member states' leaders had not given it a mandate to restrict the peaceful use of nuclear energy in any way, including the imports of nuclear fuel.
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
SolarEast Launches Global R290 Heat Pump System to Advance Climate Goals and Energy Efficiency
BEIJING, May 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- SolarEast, a leading manufacturer of air-to-water heat pumps, has announced the global launch of its next-generation R290-based heating and cooling solution. Designed for both residential and commercial buildings, this system combines environmental sustainability, regulatory compliance, and advanced smart technology, positioning itself as a key contributor to the global energy transition. Meeting International Climate and Energy Policies As countries accelerate decarbonization efforts, SolarEast's new heat pump aligns with global climate action targets, including the EU Green Deal, REPowerEU, and the IEA's Net Zero by 2050 roadmap. The system qualifies for a range of government subsidies and tax incentive programs aimed at replacing fossil-fuel-based systems with high-efficiency alternatives. QuietEdge R290 Heat Pump: Ultra-Quiet Performance with Smart IoT Control Unveiled at ISH 2025, the QuietEdge R290 Heat Pump attracted strong attention for its ultra-quiet operation and refined energy performance. Designed to meet the needs of modern homes and commercial spaces, this system delivers whisper-quiet heating and cooling—as low as 35 decibels—making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments such as residential communities, schools, and hospitals. Powered by natural refrigerant R290 and full DC inverter technology, QuietEdge balances energy efficiency with climate-conscious design. The built-in 5G/2.4G Wi-Fi module enables users to monitor consumption, receive predictive maintenance alerts, and control the system remotely via an intuitive smart platform. Its combination of acoustic comfort and intelligent connectivity has attracted interest from European HVAC distributors and industry professionals. Flexible Applications from Homes to Industrial Facilities The modular design supports a broad capacity range—from compact 4kW units for energy-efficient single-family homes to high-power 100kW systems capable of meeting the demands of hotels, office buildings, and even industrial heating and hot water supply. Cascade configurations ensure uninterrupted operation during maintenance, while the system's customizable exterior integrates seamlessly with modern architecture, featuring a discreet casing that blends harmoniously into contemporary building facades Integration with Solar PV and Energy Storage Systems The system is engineered to integrate seamlessly with solar photovoltaic (PV) panels and battery storage systems, offering users a fully decarbonized, energy-independent heating and cooling solution. This compatibility allows for greater use of self-generated renewable energy, reducing reliance on the grid and maximizing energy savings. For residential and commercial users pursuing net-zero building goals, SolarEast's R290 system provides a future-ready platform that supports PV-to-HP direct utilization and smart load balancing within energy management systems. In-House Manufacturing Ensures Quality, Safety, and Reliability SolarEast operates a vertically integrated production system, with over 85% of critical components—including evaporators, condensers, copper piping, and electronic control boards—manufactured in-house. This high degree of self-reliance allows for greater consistency, flexibility, and engineering precision across product lines. All units undergo rigorous quality checks at multiple stages of production. Inspection procedures include helium leak detection, halogen leak testing, and assembly on dedicated explosion-proof production lines. This comprehensive quality control process underscores SolarEast's commitment to delivering reliable, high-performance systems that meet global regulatory and customer expectations. A Clear Vision for Carbon Neutrality "At SolarEast, we believe in accelerating the global shift toward cleaner energy," said the company's CEO. "This R290 system is not just a product launch—it's our commitment to empowering global communities with sustainable, future-proof heating technologies that support climate goals and unlock real economic benefits through policy incentives." For detailed technical specifications and additional product information, visit: CONTACT: Zoe, heatpump@ View original content: SOURCE Solareast Heat Pump Ltd. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
SolarEast Launches Global R290 Heat Pump System to Advance Climate Goals and Energy Efficiency
BEIJING, May 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- SolarEast, a leading manufacturer of air-to-water heat pumps, has announced the global launch of its next-generation R290-based heating and cooling solution. Designed for both residential and commercial buildings, this system combines environmental sustainability, regulatory compliance, and advanced smart technology, positioning itself as a key contributor to the global energy transition. Meeting International Climate and Energy Policies As countries accelerate decarbonization efforts, SolarEast's new heat pump aligns with global climate action targets, including the EU Green Deal, REPowerEU, and the IEA's Net Zero by 2050 roadmap. The system qualifies for a range of government subsidies and tax incentive programs aimed at replacing fossil-fuel-based systems with high-efficiency alternatives. QuietEdge R290 Heat Pump: Ultra-Quiet Performance with Smart IoT Control Unveiled at ISH 2025, the QuietEdge R290 Heat Pump attracted strong attention for its ultra-quiet operation and refined energy performance. Designed to meet the needs of modern homes and commercial spaces, this system delivers whisper-quiet heating and cooling—as low as 35 decibels—making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments such as residential communities, schools, and hospitals. Powered by natural refrigerant R290 and full DC inverter technology, QuietEdge balances energy efficiency with climate-conscious design. The built-in 5G/2.4G Wi-Fi module enables users to monitor consumption, receive predictive maintenance alerts, and control the system remotely via an intuitive smart platform. Its combination of acoustic comfort and intelligent connectivity has attracted interest from European HVAC distributors and industry professionals. Flexible Applications from Homes to Industrial Facilities The modular design supports a broad capacity range—from compact 4kW units for energy-efficient single-family homes to high-power 100kW systems capable of meeting the demands of hotels, office buildings, and even industrial heating and hot water supply. Cascade configurations ensure uninterrupted operation during maintenance, while the system's customizable exterior integrates seamlessly with modern architecture, featuring a discreet casing that blends harmoniously into contemporary building facades Integration with Solar PV and Energy Storage Systems The system is engineered to integrate seamlessly with solar photovoltaic (PV) panels and battery storage systems, offering users a fully decarbonized, energy-independent heating and cooling solution. This compatibility allows for greater use of self-generated renewable energy, reducing reliance on the grid and maximizing energy savings. For residential and commercial users pursuing net-zero building goals, SolarEast's R290 system provides a future-ready platform that supports PV-to-HP direct utilization and smart load balancing within energy management systems. In-House Manufacturing Ensures Quality, Safety, and Reliability SolarEast operates a vertically integrated production system, with over 85% of critical components—including evaporators, condensers, copper piping, and electronic control boards—manufactured in-house. This high degree of self-reliance allows for greater consistency, flexibility, and engineering precision across product lines. All units undergo rigorous quality checks at multiple stages of production. Inspection procedures include helium leak detection, halogen leak testing, and assembly on dedicated explosion-proof production lines. This comprehensive quality control process underscores SolarEast's commitment to delivering reliable, high-performance systems that meet global regulatory and customer expectations. A Clear Vision for Carbon Neutrality "At SolarEast, we believe in accelerating the global shift toward cleaner energy," said the company's CEO. "This R290 system is not just a product launch—it's our commitment to empowering global communities with sustainable, future-proof heating technologies that support climate goals and unlock real economic benefits through policy incentives." For detailed technical specifications and additional product information, visit: CONTACT: Zoe, heatpump@ View original content: SOURCE Solareast Heat Pump Ltd.
Yahoo
10-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Slovak PM vows to help Putin block EU move to reject Russian gas
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has said he will seek to block the REPowerEU plan, which provides for the EU's rejection of Russian gas and other energy resources from the country. Source: a Ukrainian news outlet, citing the Kremlin's website Details: "If it takes all 27 countries to agree, we will use our veto power on the ban on imports of all types of energy resources," Fico said during a meeting with Kremlin ruler Vladimir Putin in Moscow on 9 May. "If they decide to vote by majority instead of unanimously, then the great powers will simply make the decisions themselves," Fico said. Fico argued that the European Union—and Slovakia in particular—is not yet ready to live without Russian energy. "If you think someone will buy fuel from Westinghouse and introduce it into our nuclear power plants, it's impossible," he explained. However, Ukraine has been successfully using Westinghouse fuel assemblies since 2015 in VVER-1000 reactors, and since 2023 in VVER-440 reactors, similar to those in Slovakia. "Stopping gas supplies will cause instability," Fico added. "Our petrochemical plants are set up to use Russian oil, and halting supplies could cause technological issues." Background: It was previously reported that, as part of a working group established at Slovakia's request to address gas supply concerns following the anticipated end of Russian gas transit through Ukraine, the European Commission is exploring options to diversify supply—particularly through Azerbaijan. "I've met with Prime Minister Fico twice in the past few months, and only yesterday did I speak with the country's deputy prime minister. We have a high-level working group that has met four times and will meet again very soon to try to heal some of the adverse effects on the various countries in the region. Slovakia is certainly one of those nations," said Dan Jørgensen, European Commissioner for Energy and Housing. It was also reported that, despite Europe's frozen energy relations with Russia, representatives from Washington and Moscow held talks regarding potential US assistance in resuming Russian gas sales to the European market. Following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Europe has significantly reduced its imports of Russian gas. As a result, Russian energy giant Gazprom suffered losses of US$7 billion last year. Sources close to the negotiations suggest that Russia's return to the European gas market could be a key factor in reaching a peace agreement with Russian leader Vladimir Putin. It was previously reported that Gazprom would significantly boost gas supplies to Slovakia through the TurkStream pipeline, starting in April. The announcement was made by Vojtech Ferencz, CEO of Slovak importer SPP. Ferencz noted that the supply volumes will increase several times over the level of the last two months, rather than just doubling as initially expected. After the cessation of transit through Ukraine at the end of 2024, Slovakia primarily received gas from Hungary, which supplies Russian fuel via the TurkStream pipeline. Bratislava and Budapest are pushing for the resumption of transit through Ukraine, with Slovakia even threatening to veto EU aid to Kyiv if its position is not reconsidered. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
