The just-released Renewables 2018 Global Status Report reveals two realities: one in which a revolution in the power sector is driving rapid change towards a renewable energy future and another in which the overall transition is not advancing with the speed needed.

Companies in 75 countries actively sourced 465 terawatt hours of renewable energy in 2017, an amount close to the overall electricity demand of France, according to a new report from the International Renewable Energy Agency . With the continued decline in the costs of renewables, the report suggests, corporate demand will continue to increase as companies seek to reduce electricity bills, hedge against future price spikes and address sustainability concerns.

Upgrades to Panama’s regulatory environment and power system management are critical to achieving the renewable energy goals set out in the country’s national energy plan, according to the Renewables Readiness Assessment Panama report just released by the International Renewable Energy Agency.

The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) has launched the Empowering Women as Managers in the Renewable Energy Sector initiative, which aims to support the accelerated career advancement of women in APEC economies who work in the field of renewable energy. It is specifically designed for those holding mid-level career positions, and applications from women in travel-eligible economies are strongly encouraged to apply to attend a one-week workshop that will include lectures, trainings, business plans pitches to experienced stakeholders, and networking opportunities.