Heatwave Watch: A record-breaking European heatwave has killed at least 18 people in France, including two children found dead in a hot car, as Bordeaux hit 41.9°C and Poitiers 41.2°C; authorities also warned of drowning risks and school disruptions. Grid Stress: With cooling demand rising, Europe’s power system is bracing for possible blackouts, as France issues red alerts and countries cut services to reduce breakdown risk. Italy Energy Angle: Italy is among the countries issuing highest-level heat warnings for major cities, underscoring how extreme temperatures are becoming an energy reliability issue, not just a health one. Oil Markets: Azeri Light crude prices fell below $81 per barrel at Italy’s Augusta port, reflecting softer global crude sentiment. AI & HPC Build-Out: NVIDIA says Europe is expanding AI and high-performance computing with 35 new supercomputers across 23 countries—an upgrade that can support research and industrial innovation tied to the energy transition. Home Storage Push: Octopus Energy launched a new home battery range (including plug-in and wall-mounted options) for customers across Italy and other European markets, aiming to cut bills and boost solar self-consumption. Energy Diplomacy: The US temporarily eased sanctions on Iranian oil exports via a 60-day license, linked to talks and Strait of Hormuz commitments—raising questions for regional energy flows and prices.