Heat & Drought Shock: Western Europe just logged its hottest June–July on record, with Copernicus pointing to “exceptional persistence of heat” and soil moisture far below 2022—hurting rivers, transport, irrigation and energy production. Grid Stress & Flexibility: Britain’s summer operating conditions are getting wilder as solar output and demand swing faster, pushing system operators toward more storage, flexible demand and better visibility. Nuclear Under Pressure: Low Danube levels are threatening cooling conditions for Central Europe’s nuclear and power generation, underlining how river conditions can quickly become an electricity risk. Hydro & Shipping Bottlenecks: Persistently low Rhine levels are squeezing German steel logistics, forcing more voyages and raising freight costs. Interconnector Disruption: A Britain–Ireland power cable was rerouted after Harry Potter fans protested it would cross Dobby’s memorial—an odd reminder that infrastructure timelines can hinge on public pressure. Maritime Carbon Rules: Cyprus and Greece face a major IMO decision that could reshape shipping carbon costs, with fears of overlapping charges alongside EU rules. Geopolitics & Energy Prices: Oil remains supported as Hormuz reopening stays uncertain, while European markets weigh the week’s data. Wind Permitting Fight: Bulgaria’s wind industry warns proposed environmental restrictions could undermine clean power targets and investment attractiveness.