Energy Policy / Public News Service

Ohio's clean energy sector has seen significant growth, with clean energy and clean vehicle jobs reaching more than 119,000 in 2023, a 4.4% increase from the previous year. (Oleksii Syrotkin/Stocksy)

Tuesday, January 14, 2025

Ohio cities embrace clean energy innovation

Clean energy initiatives are gaining momentum across Ohio, with efforts aimed at expanding access and advancing sustainability. Not limited to …

In December, the Oregon Investment council found the state's Public Employee Retirement System returned 2.7%, which lagged other states and its benchmark, in part because of fewer public investments. (Ded Pixto/Adobe Stock)

Tuesday, January 14, 2025

New bill would pause Oregon state retirement fund's fossil fuel investments

A new bill aims to further reduce investments in fossil fuels by Oregon's Public Employee Retirement System. The Pause Act would impose a five-year …

Federal incentives are being offered for carbon capture projects, including a multistate pipeline proposal for the Midwest involving ethanol emissions. However, skeptics said the project's designs are too big for unproven technology. (Adobe Stock)

Tuesday, January 14, 2025

Carbon pipeline and landowner rights take their seat again in SD's capitol

South Dakota lawmakers begin a new legislative session today and are already hearing from worried landowners about their rights as a private company k…

Memphis Light, Gas and Water, Tennessee Valley Authority's largest customer, accounts for 11% of TVA's total load, serving around 431,000 electric customers. (Kevin Ruck/Adobe Stock)

Tuesday, January 14, 2025

Memphis may not have enough power to accommodate enormous AI facility

An environmental group is sounding the alarm about Elon Musk's xAI Colossus facility in Memphis, which they fear will strain the city's power grid…

Montana's Department of Justice opened 21 human trafficking investigations in 2024, which will be submitted for prosecution, according to the department. (Adobe Stock)

Monday, January 13, 2025

Energy industry new focus for human trafficking education

January is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month and educators are training workers in key industries to recognize and report the crime…

The Energy Information Administration reported natural gas is Connecticut's largest energy source, with nuclear energy running second. (Adobe Stock)

Monday, January 13, 2025

CT urged to increase renewable energy to cut ratepayer costs

Connecticut environmental groups are dissatisfied with Gov. Ned Lamont's energy strategy for the state. In his State of the State address, the …

Despite the decline, coal still plays a role in some regions, especially in states such as Wyoming, West Virginia and Kentucky, where coal is a significant part of the energy mix. (James Phelps Jr./Adobe Stock)

Monday, January 13, 2025

MI expert discusses wind, solar surpassing coal on U.S. grid in 2024

A Michigan expert weighs in on an historic shift in 2024 - wind and solar power surpassed coal on the U.S. grid. According to research from Ember - …

At least 75 tree species, more than 225 bird species and eight federally listed, threatened or endangered bird, bat, salamander and plant species call the Monongahela National Forest home, according to the U.S. Forest Service. (Wikimedia Commons)<br />

Monday, January 13, 2025

WV groups urge shutdown of Monongahela coal haul road

Advocates want federal regulators to shut down what they say is an illegal coal haul road in West Virginia's Monongahela National Forest. South Fork …

The Stibnite Gold Project is located in the Payette National Forest near the town of Yellow Pine. (David Farnsworth/Adobe Stock)

Forest Service approves ID gold mine despite threats to water, public health

The U.S. Forest Service has given the go-ahead for a gold-mining project in central Idaho. If it receives state permits, the Stibnite Gold Project …

The Solar Energy Industries Association reported Illinois ranks 15th in national solar capacity. (Adobe Stock)

Solar energy progress in IL could be on hold with new administration

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

Ohio ranks among the top 10 states in U.S. natural gas production, contributing about 5% of the nation's output and reserves, which is integral to the state's hydrogen hub project. (Calin Tatu/Adobe Stock)

Local concerns rise over Ohio’s hydrogen project

Ohioans are raising questions about the future of fracking and its environmental and community impacts, following the ARCH2 hydrogen hub open house …

Despite the New York Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act's minimum benefits for disadvantaged communities, there is insufficient integration of this and other justice mandates of the law into energy transmission plans. (Adobe Stock)

Report: NYS grid transmission process must be more equitable

A new report found New York State needs a more equitable grid transmission process. The Energy Justice Law and Poverty Center report noted …

Oil tankers, such as these near the port of Long Beach, are part of a debate over which oil company earnings should be taxable in California. (European Union, Copernicus Sentinel-2 imagery/Wikimedia Commons)

Report: Tax break for big oil costs CA $75M to $146M a year

A new report from nonprofit The Climate Center has unearthed historical documents that show the big oil companies orchestrated a tax break that allows…

Researchers are testing a number of propulsion systems, such as hydrogen, electricity and biofuels, to reduce the aviation industry's carbon footprint or cut it to net-zero. (Artist's Rendering/Adobe Stock)

Colorado strategizes with stakeholders to decarbonize future of air travel

By Ethan Brown for The Sweaty Penguin.Broadcast version by Mark Richardson for Colorado News Connection reporting for the Solutions Journalism Network…

If confirmed, Brooke Rollins will direct the U.S. Department of Agriculture and its 100,000 employees, running on an annual budget of $437 billion. (Adobe Stock)

Texan tapped as ag secretary in upcoming Trump administration

By Dawn Attride for Sentient.Broadcast version by Freda Ross for Texas News Service reporting for the Sentient-Public News Service Collaboration Pres…

Democratic presidential candidates have won Massachusetts and its 11 electoral votes in each election for more than 60 years, excluding Ronald Reagon's victories in 1980 and 1984. (Adobe Stock) <br />

Rightward shifts in solid blue MA ignite Democrats’ ‘listening tour’

Massachusetts Democrats hope a virtual "listening tour" will help clarify voters' rightward shift in last year's election. While Vice President …

Researchers say most newer models of electric vehicles are fitted with heat pumps, which can add roughly 10% extra range to cars during freezing conditions. (Adobe Stock)

EV upgrades could ease concerns about cold-climate performance

By Kristoffer Tigue for Inside Climate News.Broadcast version by Mike Moen for Minnesota News Connection reporting for the Solutions Journalism Networ…

NV groups celebrate temporary oil, gas ban in Ruby Mountains

The Biden-Harris administration is taking another step to protect northeast Nevada's Ruby Mountains - by putting them temporarily off-limits to oil…

The Perry Nuclear Power Generating Station on the shores of Lake Erie near Cleveland is one of two nuclear power plants currently operating in Ohio. (Wikipedia)

Ohio passes new law redefining nuclear power as 'green' energy

Backers say a law adding nuclear power to the definition of "green" energy will give Ohioans another option to cut carbon emissions but some environme…

Utah's economy and royalties from energy development on extensive state trust lands typically are the largest source of income for Utah's public school trust fund. (Adobe Stock)

Utah looks to diversify energy portfolio as AI gains momentum

Many contend Utah, like the greater United States, is facing an energy crisis, and the fast development and expansion of artificial intelligence …

The Cranberry Glades, located in the Monongahela National Forest, protects the largest area of bogs or acidic wetlands in West Virginia, according to the Pocahontas County Convention and Visitors Bureau. (Adobe Stock)

Lawsuit alleges South Fork Coal violations near Cranberry Wilderness area

Environmental groups are suing South Fork Coal Company, alleging the company has repeatedly violated federal law in Greenbrier County. The lawsuit …

In January, the Biden-Harris administration temporarily paused decisions on LNG export approvals to non-Free Trade Agreement countries, pending updated DOE analyses. (Adobe Stock)

LNG report sparks calls for change amid rising costs, environmental concerns

The Department of Energy is taking a close look at the economic and environmental impacts of liquefied natural gas exports, which some experts argue …

Two large-scale Wisconsin clean energy projects, the Apple River Solar Project in Polk County and the Darien Solar Energy Center in Walworth and Rock counties, are scheduled for 2025. (Adobe Stock)

Wisconsin ends year on a high note in clean energy

Wisconsin is ending the year on a high note in the clean energy space, with some notables like a first-of-its-kind energy dome and approval for the …

As of Dec. 2020, Pennsylvania had more than 12,000 active

PA group challenges fracking permits in Westmoreland County

CLARIFICATION: CNX entered into an agreement with Apex Energy II, but that sale has not been completed. Also, the state's agreement with CNX is not …

According to New York State's Energy Research and Development Authority, energy storage and grid modernization jobs grew by 7% in 2023. (Adobe Stock)

NYS 2025 energy storage deadline is fast approaching

One of New York State's first energy storage deadlines is fast approaching. A roadmap established earlier this year sets a state goal of developing 6…

Battery storage is considered a key form of clean energy innovation, and those behind a public-private-partnership in Minnesota want to make the region a hub to perfect these solutions and similar technologies. (Adobe Stock)

MN's 'Energy Alley' looks to lengthen its on-ramp for start-ups

Minnesota's clean energy goals are among the more ambitious in the U.S. But industry experts say it can't slow down on the innovation side to see …

Among recently surveyed Wyomingites, 88% support constructing wildlife crossings across major highways intersecting with known migration routes, though only 48% consider the loss of wildlife and fish habitats an extremely or very serious problem, according to the 2024 State of the Rockies Project poll. (Danita Delimont/Adobe Stock)

Wyoming gets mixed scores on 2024 conservation report card

A new scorecard from the Center for Western Priorities points to Wyoming's success as a western state balancing conservation goals and economic growth…

The impacts of offshore transmission on the seabed can be mitigated with micrositing and proactive planning, which is critical for protecting ocean species, according to a report from the National Wildlife Federation. (Adobe Stock) <br />

Federal regulators urged to consider wildlife in MA transmission plans

Wildlife advocates want federal regulators to consider habitats and migratory routes, when planning new transmission infrastructure in Massachusetts …

Offshore wind energy in the Gulf of Maine has the potential to generate up to 156 gigawatts of power, which is more than 70 times the amount of electricity used by the entire state, according to Maine Audubon. (Adobe Stock)

Reports show ME clean energy projects can include wildlife protections

Wildlife advocates say it's possible to transition to renewable energy while protecting vital habitats and species. As Maine builds out its …

A 2021 United Federation of Teachers survey finds 68% of teachers don't have time to teach climate change, but 52% teach it for one to two hours per year. (Adobe Stock)

NYS Board of Regents allocates funding for climate education

New York's Board of Regents approved a Department of Education funding request for climate education. The board is putting more than $536,000 aside …

More than three-quarters of Western voters say more emphasis should be placed on conserving wildlife migration routes than on economic uses of lands in these areas, according to the State of the Rockies Project. (Adobe Stock)

Report: AZ one of eight Western states that could improve conservation policies

Arizona could be doing more to improve conservation policy, according to a new report by the Center for Western Priorities. The Center's Policy …

75% of Nevadans think more emphasis should be placed on conserving wildlife migration routes than on new developments, according to Colorado College's State of the Rockies Project. (Adobe Stock)

Report: NV emerges as conservation leader among Western states

Nevada scored high for its well-funded conservation programs and for the state's commitment to public land protections. A new report by The Center …

Since the passage of The Clean Energy Plan in 2022, Utah has seen more than 3,800 new jobs across the state. (Adobe Stock)

Report: Utah lags on conservation policy

Among Western states, Utah could be doing more to support conservation policy, according to a new report by the Center for Western Priorities…

Ithaca, New York, is the first city in the world to commit to electrifying all its buildings. The city is aiming to accomplish the goal by 2030. (Adobe Stock)

NY elected officials work to electrify municipal buildings

New York lawmakers are focusing on electrifying municipal buildings. Buildings statewide make up 32% of New York's greenhouse gas emissions and …

Offshore wind turbines such as these in Maine are currently in the planning stages at sites off of the coast of Morro Bay and Humboldt. (Jack Shapiro/Natural Resources Council of Maine)

Reports: Transmission grid plans must take wildlife into account

The power grid will need to be dramatically upgraded and expanded in the coming years to handle the transition to renewable energy - and two new repor…

Aerial view of solar arrays on the Franklin County Extension Office in Frankfort. (Franklin County Extension Office)

KY county extension offices increasing climate resilience

A solar battery storage project at the Franklin County Extension Office is expected to save taxpayers $10,000 a year on utility bills, and provide …

Pennsylvania has more than 49,000 farms, generating nearly $10 billion in agricultural product sales. (Thanaporn/Adobe Stock)

Research shows valuable impact of getting 'back to nature' practices on PA farms

A new study suggested getting "back to nature" in farming could help ward off the biggest effects of climate change. As Pennsylvania faces …

U.S. power companies are sitting on a stockpile of coal equivalent to the entire volume expected to come from Appalachia in 2025, according to a new analysis from the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis. (Adobe Stock)

Analysis: U.S. coal stockpiles could cut demand from Powder River Basin mines

A new analysis of federal data shows that U.S. power plants are sitting on a huge stockpile of coal, much of which came from the Powder River Basin…

A recent report says data centers will use nearly a quarter of all Oregon's electricity by 2030. Without changes, households may have to fit the bill. (AntonioDiaz/Adobe Stock)

Caps on utility rate hikes may be coming in 2025

After years of double-digit rate hikes on electricity bills, some relief might be in sight. Oregon Citizens' Utility Board, or CUB, has proposed a 7…

California state energy goals include reaching 100% clean energy by 2045. (Anchalee/Adobe Stock)

Environmental groups call for LA County power plant closure

Environmental groups are calling for the immediate closure of Los Angeles County's Walnut Creek Energy Park, because of potentially dangerous levels …

Currently, over 2,300 biogas-producing sites operate across the United States. <br />(Олександр Луценко/Adobe Stock)<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />

MI farms making manure matter by turning it into clean energy

From cow waste to clean energy, Michigan will soon have a couple of new state-backed digesters to get the job done. Last Tuesday, the Michigan …

More than 54% of new clean-energy jobs and 60% of projects in Georgia are located in low-income<br />communities. (Adobe Stock)

Georgia’s clean energy boom sparks workforce growth, housing challenges

By Sarah Melotte and Elizabeth Miller for The Daily Yonder.Broadcast version by Shanteya Hudson for Georgia News Connection for the Public News Servic…

Along with a goal to reach net-zero emissions by 2050, the Port Authority is looking to reduce direct emissions 50% by 2030. (Adobe Stock)

NY, NJ ports receive federal grants for clean energy transition

The Port of New York and New Jersey is receiving funding to cut emissions. It's part of the Environmental Protection Agency's Clean Ports Program…

The Environmental Protection Agency has set and implemented emissions standards to control pollution from everything from cars, heavy-duty trucks and buses, and construction and farm equipment, since 1970. (Adobe Stock/AI generated Image)

Poll: Most voters want a robust EPA, more pollution controls

Nationwide, 76% of Trump voters and 86% of all voters oppose attempts to weaken the Environmental Protection Agency, according to a new poll …

According to the Department of Energy, all-electric vehicles are shown to be about 4.4 times more efficient than gas-powered cars. (Adobe Stock)

Consumer experiences with electric vehicles on upswing

A leading consumer publication says electric vehicles are gaining ground on gas-powered cars when it comes to feelings about reliability. However…

After some initial permit roadblocks, Summit Carbon Solutions has been gaining approval in Midwestern states for a large-scale carbon capture project involving ethanol plants. (Adobe Stock)

MN joins the carbon capture pipeline wave with permit approval

A massive carbon capture project proposed for the Midwest has another permit under its belt after Minnesota regulators gave their approval Thursday…

Seven in 10 Utah residents say protecting water, air, wildlife habitat and recreation opportunities on public lands is more important than maximizing the amount of land available for drilling and mining. (Galatas)

Utah lawsuit could affect public lands in Colorado, nation

As the U.S. Supreme Court considers a lawsuit brought by Utah officials, asking the court to transfer more than 18 million acres of federal lands to …

Michigan is a leader in clean energy employment in the Midwest, with nearly 124,000 clean energy jobs as of 2023. (structuresxx/Adobe Stock)

MI communities fight state control over clean energy law

Over 70 Michigan townships and counties are taking a stand in court, saying the state is overstepping its authority on renewable energy permits…

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PNS Daily Newscast: Afternoon Update - January 14, 2025

2025Talks - January 14, 2025

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Energy Policy

Ohio cities embrace clean energy innovation

New bill would pause Oregon state retirement fund's fossil fuel investments

Carbon pipeline and landowner rights take their seat again in SD's capitol

Memphis may not have enough power to accommodate enormous AI facility

Energy industry new focus for human trafficking education

CT urged to increase renewable energy to cut ratepayer costs

MI expert discusses wind, solar surpassing coal on U.S. grid in 2024

WV groups urge shutdown of Monongahela coal haul road

Forest Service approves ID gold mine despite threats to water, public health

Solar energy progress in IL could be on hold with new administration

Local concerns rise over Ohio’s hydrogen project

Report: NYS grid transmission process must be more equitable

Report: Tax break for big oil costs CA $75M to $146M a year

Colorado strategizes with stakeholders to decarbonize future of air travel

Texan tapped as ag secretary in upcoming Trump administration

Rightward shifts in solid blue MA ignite Democrats’ ‘listening tour’

EV upgrades could ease concerns about cold-climate performance

NV groups celebrate temporary oil, gas ban in Ruby Mountains

Ohio passes new law redefining nuclear power as 'green' energy

Utah looks to diversify energy portfolio as AI gains momentum

Lawsuit alleges South Fork Coal violations near Cranberry Wilderness area

LNG report sparks calls for change amid rising costs, environmental concerns

Wisconsin ends year on a high note in clean energy

PA group challenges fracking permits in Westmoreland County

NYS 2025 energy storage deadline is fast approaching

MN's 'Energy Alley' looks to lengthen its on-ramp for start-ups

Wyoming gets mixed scores on 2024 conservation report card

Federal regulators urged to consider wildlife in MA transmission plans

Reports show ME clean energy projects can include wildlife protections

NYS Board of Regents allocates funding for climate education

Report: AZ one of eight Western states that could improve conservation policies

Report: NV emerges as conservation leader among Western states

Report: Utah lags on conservation policy

NY elected officials work to electrify municipal buildings

Reports: Transmission grid plans must take wildlife into account

KY county extension offices increasing climate resilience

Research shows valuable impact of getting 'back to nature' practices on PA farms

Analysis: U.S. coal stockpiles could cut demand from Powder River Basin mines

Caps on utility rate hikes may be coming in 2025

Environmental groups call for LA County power plant closure

MI farms making manure matter by turning it into clean energy

Georgia’s clean energy boom sparks workforce growth, housing challenges

NY, NJ ports receive federal grants for clean energy transition

Poll: Most voters want a robust EPA, more pollution controls

Consumer experiences with electric vehicles on upswing

MN joins the carbon capture pipeline wave with permit approval

Utah lawsuit could affect public lands in Colorado, nation

MI communities fight state control over clean energy law