Ikcerog / Wikimedia Commons DTE Energy headquarters in Detroit, Michigan. The Michigan utility aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, but its compensation packages still include rewards for “coal plant reliability.” DTE Energy is facing criticism from environmental groups for a “coal plant reliability” incentive in the Michigan … [Read more...] about DTE executives’ coal reliability incentive conflicts with clean energy goals, critics say
Backup battery helps reduce electricity outages in remote Illinois community
Ameren Illinois / Courtesy The Thebes battery and its equipment are housed inside a structure approximately the size of a shipping container. The battery system in the small, rural town of Thebes allows Ameren Illinois more time to complete repairs in a “geographically challenging area.” As utilities around the country plan for more energy storage on the … [Read more...] about Backup battery helps reduce electricity outages in remote Illinois community
Minnesota town opts for a short-term approach to its long-term climate goals
Tony Webster / Flickr / Creative Commons Downtown Red Wing, Minnesota. Red Wing’s five-year plan offers less daunting action items and more political accountability, its creators say. As cities debate ways to meet their long-term goals for emissions reductions, a Minnesota town’s new climate plan calls for fast action and quick results over the next five … [Read more...] about Minnesota town opts for a short-term approach to its long-term climate goals
Maine farmers, solar developers hope clean energy growth yields mutual benefits
A burgeoning solar industry could offer landowners a financial boost, but industry leaders are cautious to protect the state’s prime farmland. With solar booming in Maine, the state’s farmers now have to strike a balance between supporting themselves financially on the one hand, and watching out for their land on the other. Large developers have their eye on Maine, … [Read more...] about Maine farmers, solar developers hope clean energy growth yields mutual benefits
Midwest cities show more improvement in annual efficiency scorecard
Mac H / Creative Commons St. Paul, Minnesota ranked as most improved in the ACEEE's annual city energy efficiency scorecard. St. Paul and St. Louis are most improved, with Minneapolis once again leading the region. Northeast and West Coast cities dominated the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy’s annual city scorecard released Oct. 6, but the Midwest … [Read more...] about Midwest cities show more improvement in annual efficiency scorecard