With the energy price cap dropping on July 1st, Money Saving Expert advises taking meter readings and potentially topping up prepay meters to ensure you benefit from the lower rates. While the savings may seem small, they can add up to significant amounts over the year. However, the cap is expected to rise in October, so consider building up credit or looking into fixed deals to avoid future price hikes.
Growing a human takes a lot of energy! Scientists have estimated that a pregnant woman needs anywhere from 50,000 to 85,000 extra calories over nine months, with most estimates leaning towards the higher end. This extra energy isn’t just for the baby, but also for the mother’s body as it undergoes significant changes to accommodate the pregnancy. The exact amount of calories needed can vary depending on factors like the mother’s size, activity level, and metabolism.
Despite sanctions imposed by Ukraine and Western allies, Russia’s gas exports to Europe surpassed those of the US in May 2023, marking a significant shift in the region’s energy dependence. This development highlights the challenges Europe faces in reducing its reliance on Russian gas, especially with several Eastern European countries continuing to rely on imports from their neighbor.
Starting the day with a protein-rich breakfast is essential for overall well-being. Protein helps regulate blood sugar, preventing fatigue and providing sustained energy. It also aids in neurotransmitter synthesis, improving mood and reducing stress. Additionally, protein supports muscle protein synthesis, enhancing strength and metabolism. The digestion and metabolism of protein require more energy, boosting the body’s overall metabolism. Moreover, protein promotes satiety, managing weight and reducing cravings.
On June 1, 2024, Mars, the planet of drive and passion, enters the fiery sign of Aries, marking a significant astrological event. This transit ignites a surge of energy, passion, and intensity within us, setting a new pace in our lives. Mars in Aries empowers us to embrace our leadership qualities, take calculated risks, and confront challenges head-on. It’s a time to put on our armor and engage in the fight for our goals, whether they be in love, career, or personal growth.
Scorpio, prepare for a surge of energy that will drive you to explore your interests deeply. Your investigative and research abilities will shine, and you’ll have the determination to tackle complex issues. In personal relationships, connect on a profound level, and embrace the potential for meaningful connections. At work, your strategic thinking will be an asset, and your ability to solve problems and manage resources will be invaluable. Remember to balance your mental pursuits with physical care, and avoid neglecting your well-being.
The Biden administration’s new “green” energy mandates will make it even harder for Americans to afford homes, according to experts. The mandates, which are being pushed through the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), will add $31,000 to the cost of a new home. The administration claims that the higher upfront cost will pay for itself via lower energy bills, but the breakeven point is 90 years.
Rep. Mary Peltola, D-Alaska, is facing backlash from her Republican challengers over her refusal to fully support the Biden administration’s green energy push, which they claim will harm the state’s economy. Peltola voted “present” on a bill to roll back some of President Biden’s executive orders against the state’s oil and gas industry, prompting criticism that she is failing to stand up for Alaska’s interests.
The Biden administration announced comprehensive regulations to upgrade the aging US electrical grid and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from power plants. The regulations establish the first-ever limits on carbon emissions from power plants, tighten restrictions on mercury and coal ash, and include a new process to expedite the construction of essential transmission lines. These actions align with the administration’s climate spending laws and aim to eliminate nearly 1.4 billion metric tons of carbon pollution by 2047, equivalent to taking 328 million gasoline-fueled cars off the road or a year’s worth of emissions from the current US electric power sector. While the new regulations exempt existing natural gas plants, the EPA is considering ways to reduce their emissions after receiving feedback from industry stakeholders. To facilitate the expansion of renewable energy, the Department of Energy has introduced rules to streamline the approval process for new transmission lines and established a new federal program to accelerate permitting. The administration also highlighted advancements in nuclear fission and geothermal energy as zero-carbon alternatives to power plants.
Crude oil futures declined on Wednesday despite a decline in commercial crude supplies, as the decrease was outweighed by a drop in gasoline demand and increased exports. The Energy Information Administration reported a 6.4 million barrel reduction in commercial crude oil stocks, bringing the total to 453.6 million barrels. However, gasoline demand fell by 239K barrels per day to 8.42 million barrels per day, below levels seen last year. The drop in gasoline demand, combined with a smaller-than-expected decrease in gasoline supply, eased concerns about a tight fuel market. Front-month Nymex crude for June delivery closed down 0.6% at $82.81/bbl, while June Brent crude finished down 0.4% at $88.02/bbl.
