In brief | 11 March '26

European Commission presents measures to increase EU's energy independence and affordability

The European Commission presented first initiatives to boost investment in homegrown clean energy solutions, increase resilience and reduce energy prices.

European Commission unveils strategy to bring Europe’s first SMRs online by the early 2030s

The European Commission has presented a strategy to accelerate the development and deployment of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and Advanced Modular Reactors (AMRs) in Europe.

Reuters: Volkswagen stung by tariffs, China battle as profit halves

Europe's largest carmaker reported a slump in operating profit and forecast only a modest recovery for its dwindling margin. The group plans to make around 50,000 job cuts ​by 2030 in Germany.

Reuters: Porsche CEO looks to petrol classics for margin revival

Porsche's new CEO announced plans to draw on high-margin sports cars to recoup losses from a turbulent 2025 marked by tariff costs, electrification missteps and the collapse of its sales in China.

Bloomberg: Extreme heat is making life increasingly unliveable

The number of hours where it’s too hot for everyday activities has doubled since 1950, a new study found.

ETH Zurich: Climate policies: The swing voters that determine their fate

A large-scale international study spanning 13 EU countries shows that when it comes to climate policy proposals, the decisive factor is not the pro- or con-camps that are decisive, but a substantial middle group.

Euronews: EU leaders urge Commission to present concrete options to lower electricity bills

EU leaders have asked the European Commission to review electricity prices and the EU Emissions Trading System to curb price volatility while preserving climate incentives.