Energy Policy / Public News Service

About 30% of agricultural methane emissions stem from manure storage. The other 70% comes from the digestive systems of livestock. (Adobe Stock)

Friday, November 29, 2024

CT, US take steps to mitigate methane emissions

By Seth Millstein for Sentient Climate.Broadcast version by Edwin J. Viera for Connecticut News Service reporting for the Sentient-Public News …

Jacques Beech saw his electric bill fall to $100 a month after installing solar panels on his Minneapolis home. (Photo courtesy Brad Stauffer for Energy News Network)

Mpls. solar nonprofit proves patience brings results to low-income residents

By Frank Jossi for Energy News Network.Broadcast version by Mike Moen for Minnesota News Connection reporting for the Solutions Journalism Network-Pub…

Pennsylvania will receive about more than $591 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to cap orphaned oil and gas wells and restore abandoned mine lands. (Funtay/Adobe)

Monday, November 25, 2024

Advocates: PA's climate progress threatened by 2nd Trump presidency

A Pennsylvania group warned progress on environmental protections could be at risk under a second term for President-elect Donald Trump. The state's …

One megawatt (MW) of electricity generated by a wind turbine in Wisconsin can typically power around 350 typical Wisconsin homes, according to Renew Wisconsin. (Adobe Stock)

Despite lag in WI wind energy, potential is high for takeoff

Wisconsin ranks 26th in the nation for wind energy, generating far less than neighboring states. Wisconsin has about 900 megawatts of installed …

West Virginia has the nation's third highest electricity costs as a percentage of household income, according to a 2022 report by Citizens Utility Board of Illinois. (Adobe Stock)

Monday, November 25, 2024

Grid operator's $14 billion in costs mean higher bills for WV residents

Major electric grid operator PJM Interconnection estimates it'll cost more than $14 billion to provide electricity for 2025-2026, up from $2.2 …

A Sierra Club report found offshore wind can save New Englanders $630,000,000 annually. (Adobe Stock)

Researchers studying CT’s offshore wind possibilities

Connecticut is the subject of an offshore wind study which aims to identify supply chain opportunities for the state and the Northeast region…

Meadville's Climate Action Plan includes a food project to help local vendors and farmers increase the affordable fresh produce they offer. And a farming incubator will allow residents access to larger plots of land and agricultural training. (Don/Adobed Stock)

Funding boosts 'green' projects in Meadville, PA

A small rural town in northwest Pennsylvania is using a combination of state and federal funds to implement "green" projects as part of its Climate Ac…

Food systems are responsible for one-third of global greenhouse gas emissions, with meat production, particularly beef, being a significant driver. (CanYalicn/Adobe Stock)

From Ohio to Azerbaijan: How COP29 could shape local farming

By Dawn Attride for Sentient.Broadcast version by Farah Siddiqi for Ohio News Connection reporting for the Sentient-Public News Service Collaboration …

Xcel Energy officials and Minnesota dignitaries gathered this week for a ceremonial connection of the company's Sherco solar facility. Phase One is now online and the utility says once fully operational, Sherco will power 150,000 homes. (Photo courtesy Xcel)

Following solar news, is MN closer to reaching carbon-free goal?

Minnesota's solar energy outlook took a big step forward this week with a new project coming online, bringing the conversation back into focus about …

Use caulk, spray foam and weather stripping to keep more heat inside the home. (Rawpixel.com/Adobe Stock)

Supports available in OR to help with winter heating bills

La Niña is bringing a cooler, wetter winter to Oregon and likely driving up heating bills as systems work harder. This is the third year of …

More than 3,000 Maine apprentices were actively working on industry-recognized skill certification in 2022, according to the Maine Department of Labor. (Adobe Stock) <br />

ME businesses boost apprenticeships to counter workforce shortage

State officials in Maine said they are working to expand the number of registered apprenticeship programs to help counter a persistent worker shortage…

A report from the Maryland Public Interest Research Group anticipates future emissions reductions will come from the transportation and industrial sectors. (Adobe Stock / AI-generated)

Report: MD leads nation in greenhouse gas reduction

New research finds Maryland leading the nation in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Environmental Protection Agency data show between 2005 and 2022…

The nonprofit FracTracker Alliance has created an online map that shows the proximity of CO2 pipelines in Great Plains states to ecologically vulnerable areas and Indigenous lands. (Adobe Stock)

'FracTracker' maps pipeline effects on Indigenous land

A nonprofit group that tracks oil and gas development has created an interactive map to show how close CO2 pipelines in Great Plains states come to en…

A new analysis found solar and wind energy sources are much better poised to meet U.S. energy demands in the next decade than new nuclear technology. (maxdigi/Adobe Stock)

Analysis: New nuclear tech distracts from proven renewable energy

New nuclear power options are getting a lot of attention but analysts said the unproven options could distract from readily available renewable energy…

More than 8 million tons of cargo passes through the Port of Detroit annually, supporting more than 9,000 local direct jobs and more than $900 million in economic activity. (Detroit Wayne County Port Authority)

EPA grants $21.9M for MI port upgrades, emission planning

The Environmental Protection Agency is delivering more than $21.9 million to the Detroit/Wayne County Port Authority, aiming to provide a greener …

The City of Seattle aims to cut all climate pollution by 2030. (CLShebley/Adobe Stock)

Green New Deal community assemblies in Seattle pioneer citizen involvement

Community members in Seattle had a unique opportunity to weigh in on the policies guiding the city's climate goals. In 2019, the City of Seattle …

Several Midwestern states, including North Dakota, have been looking over plans submitted by Summit Carbon Solutions for what's described as one of the largest carbon capture and storage projects in the world. (Adobe Stock)

Carbon pipeline debate reaches new stage after ND permit OK'd

More regulatory action is needed, but a controversial pipeline project in North Dakota is moving forward after a permit was approved last week…

$Short-term exposure to fracking pollutants can cause respiratory and other health issues, while long-term exposure, especially during pregnancy, is linked to birth defects and complications. (Aryfahmed/Adobe Stock)$

PA group fights for global treaty to end plastic pollution

An environmental group in Pennsylvania is among those backing a global plastics treaty set to be finalized by year's end. It is estimated 99% of …

According to Environment Illinois, residential rooftop solar grew nearly 2,300% between 2017 and 2022. (Adobe Stock)

IL solar energy demand remains strong, boosts job growth

By Kari Lydersen for Energy News Network.Broadcast version by Terri Dee for Illinois News Connection reporting for the Solutions Journalism Network-Pu…

Funds from the Inflation Reduction Act are now flowing to help California families afford energy-efficient electric heat pumps. (Isengard/Adobe Stock)

New CA rebate program launched to cut home energy costs

A new rebate program could save California families up to $8,000 on an electric heat pump for home heating and cooling. The Home Electrification and …

Built in 1953 and outlasting its original lifespan, Enbridge's Line 5 pipeline transports 22 million gallons of crude oil and natural gas liquids daily across 645 miles of terrain through Michigan and Wisconsin. (Adobe Stock)

Controversial Line 5 project faces more legal action in WI

A legal challenge is expected since the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has granted key permit approvals to a Canadian energy company to rer…

According to the South Dakota Secretary of State, South Dakota's Referred Law 21 was ousted by voters 59% to 41%. (Brent Coulter)<br />

Eminent domain reform could follow ousted SD pipeline law

In last week's election, South Dakota voters defeated the carbon pipeline law by a wide margin, but pipeline companies could still gain ground in …

According to MSCI, 97% of nickel, 89% of copper, 79% of lithium and 68% of cobalt supplies in the U.S. are located within 35 miles of Native American reservations. (Adobe Stock)

Federal agendas aside, tribes have a lot to offer in 'energy evolution'

President-elect Donald Trump's agenda for "energy dominance" could majorly impact leaders in the sector, including the state of Wyoming and the …

Two solar projects now produce about 35% of Four Seasons' energy use. Solar arrays cover the entire roof of the company's Ephrata, Penn., warehouse. (Four Seasons Family of Companies)

Federal funds help power PA produce distributor's rooftop solar

By Sara Millhouse for Resource Rural.Broadcast version by Danielle Smith for Keystone State News Connection reporting for the Resource Rural-Public Ne…

According to a United Nations 2015 report, food system emissions were responsible for 18 billion tons of carbon dioxide, making up 34% of global emissions. (Prostock-studio/Adobe Stock)

Investors, activists both work to shape companies' climate goals

The food we consume is a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, with beef production -- key to the fast food industry -- among …

Shareholders step up to shape climate goals in corporate world

By Grace Hussain for Sentient.Broadcast version by Farah Siddiqi for Commonwealth News Service reporting for the Sentient-Public News Service Collabor…

Virtual power plants, a microgrid connecting renewable energy with smart appliances, costs ratepayers 40% to 60% less than building and maintaining conventional coal or gas-powered plants. (Adobe Stock)

Creating virtual power plants for resiliency during extreme weather, wildfires

An electric cooperative supplying power to Western Colorado is pioneering energy independence for homes, businesses and farms. They are creating a …

In Connecticut, 818,000 electric vehicles are registered per 100,000 people. Nationally, between 2020 and 2023, EV sales grew from 300,000 to 1.6 million. (Adobe Stock)

Misconceptions keep CT drivers from getting EVs

Misinformation about electric vehicles is keeping more of them from being on Connecticut roads. Owners of the state's more than 31,000 registered …

Nearly half of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency budget goes into grants to state environmental programs, nonprofits, educational institutions and others. (Adobe Stock)

Environmental concerns rise in Florida after Trump picks Zeldin to lead EPA

Florida environmental advocates are concerned about the future after President-elect Donald Trump named former New York Congressman Lee Zeldin to lead…

Project IKE, a uranium enrichment facility, will be situated on a 920-acre site in Oak Ridge in Roane County. U.S. Department of Energy land will be transferred to the private company Orano USA for the project. (HTGanzo/Adobe Stock)

Alliance sounds alarm on new uranium enrichment facility in Oak Ridge

A Knoxville environmental group is raising concerns about a new uranium enrichment facility slated to be operated in Oak Ridge. Unlike past sites …

Pima and Maricopa counties are the only ones in Arizona currently offering vouchers to residents and commercial users for electric lawn equipment. (Tyger Gilbert/Adobe Stock)

As leaves fall in AZ, calls renewed to incentivize electric lawn equipment

It is finally cooling down in Arizona, which means more leaves on the ground as well as heightened use of lawn equipment to keep Arizona properties …

The addition of more than 750 megawatts of renewable energy for rural portions of Kentucky significantly reduces the amount of greenhouse gases developed by natural gas and coal-fired generators. (Adobe Stock)

Power co-op to add renewable solar energy to KY rural transmission grid

New funding from the federal Empowering Rural America program will allow the East Kentucky Power Cooperative to add more than 750 megawatts of solar e…

UT electric provider taps into potential of 'virtual' power plants

By Robert Zullo for the Utah News Dispatch part of States Newsroom.Broadcast version by Alex Gonzalez for Utah News Connection reporting for the Solut…

The proposed Net-Zero 1 corn-starch-to-jet-fuel plant in Lake Preston, S.D., would stem the release of over 600,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. (Adobe Stock)

Ethanol companies back SD pipeline ballot question with big bucks

A proposed corn-starch-to-jet-fuel plant in South Dakota is on track to get big federal funding, but its feasibility could hinge on election results…

Pennsylvania has been allocated $1.6 billion to expand high-speed internet access statewide. The investment, made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, has already led to savings for more than 764,000 Pennsylvania households on their monthly internet bills. (Zimmytws/Adobe)

PA Lehigh Valley economic stability at risk with Project 2025 proposals

Ahead of tomorrow's presidential election, a nonprofit is raising concerns Project 2025 and its proposed rollback of federal aid could disrupt …

A proposed refinery project would be located at Port Westward near Clatskanie, Oregon. (Sam Beebe, Ecotrust/Wikimedia Commons)

Proposed refinery on Columbia River draws objections from public

A proposed project to build a refinery on an estuary along the Columbia River is getting pushback from the public. NEXT Renewable Fuels is proposing …

Eligibility for heating assistance is based on several factors, including household size and combined gross annual income of residents 18 and older. The program provides assistance for all sources of heat, including oil, electricity, natural gas, propane, kerosene, wood and coal. (Adobe Stock) <br />

Chills vs. bills: MA kicks off home heating aid program

Temperatures are dropping in the Commonwealth and community action agencies said help is available for those struggling to pay their heating bills…

In 2023, more than 82,000 Georgia families saved a combined $148 million through clean energy and energy efficiency upgrades. (Adobe Stock)

Groups work to help GA's faith communities access energy savings

As people head to the polls tomorrow, groups are working to ensure Georgia's Black and brown communities understand the energy saving benefits of the …

Arizona ranks among the top five states in the nation for solar-power generation, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. (Richard Nantais/Adobe Stock)

2024 election could be decisive for AZ's clean energy future

Arizona is ground zero for the 2024 election, but also sits on the front lines of the climate crisis, as the state has seen another year of record-…

PacifiCorp has committed to retiring just 27% of its coal use by 2030. (Adobe Stock)

PacifiCorp has 'room to improve' on clean energy commitments

A new report grades utilities based on their commitment to transitioning away from fossil fuels. The Sierra Club has graded utilities on their …

Around 81% of Nevada voters want to get more power from solar energy, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association. (Adobe Stock)

Renewable-energy proponents say Project 2025 would hurt Nevada

A new report found Project 2025's policies would increase annual energy costs for Nevadans by more than $230 per household in 2030. The figure goes …

The State of Colorado supported Solid Power's early growth with an Advanced Industries Accelerator grant in 2014, which supports the development of early-stage technologies. (Adobe Stock)

$50 million Biden IRA funding goes to Thornton-based EV battery maker

The Biden Administration is investing $50 million from the Inflation Reduction Act in Colorado to produce more batteries to power electric vehicles…

New York State saw higher rates of electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid vehicles purchased in 2023 than in 2024. (Adobe Stock)

NY, US face misinformation about electric vehicles

Despite their growing popularity, consumers in New York and nationwide still face misconceptions about electric vehicles. One of the most pervasive …

Forty percent of the funds for climate projects in the Inflation Reduction Act must be spent in underserved communities. The SolarCorps helps low-income families install residential solar. (New Africa/Adobe Stock)

Climate Corps workers: California here we come

By Yessenia Funes for Atmos.Broadcast version by Suzanne Potter for California News Service reporting for the Solutions Journalism Network-Public News…

Air-source heat pumps use two to three times less energy than electric resistance heating. (Adobe Stock/AI)<br />

MD adopting building energy use standards to meet climate goals

With President Joe Biden in Baltimore today to talk about infrastructure and the climate crisis, the state is in the process of finalizing a new set …

Idaho Power and PacifiCorp co-own a coal-fired power plant in Wyoming. (Robert/Adobe Stock)

Report: ID utilities struggling to transition to clean energy