Supporters say third-party companies could bring innovation, but some lawmakers worry about potential disruption to successful utility programs. A proposal buried at the end of Connecticut’s so-called “take back our grid” legislation would potentially make utilities compete for control of the energy efficiency programs they’ve operated for more than 20 … [Read more...] about Connecticut bill would invite competition to run efficiency programs
Louisiana lawmaker paid to push proposed pipeline through Black, Indigenous communities
Lyndsey Gilpin / Southerly A natural gas pipeline sign in south Louisiana. This story was produced by Southerly, an independent, nonprofit media organization that covers the intersection of ecology, justice, and culture in the American South. Dorothy Ingram is among dozens of Raceland, Louisiana residents who say they’ve received few details about a proposed natural gas … [Read more...] about Louisiana lawmaker paid to push proposed pipeline through Black, Indigenous communities
How fossil fuels won round one of North Carolina’s Volkswagen settlement payout
Legislative politics, industry influence, and financial pressures from an aging bus fleet helped shape spending. So much about riding the school bus has been the same for decades: the dread or thrill of choosing a seat, the din of the engine humming and classmates chattering, the smell of old vinyl and diesel exhaust mingled together. But for a tiny fraction of the 800,000-odd … [Read more...] about How fossil fuels won round one of North Carolina’s Volkswagen settlement payout
Ohio researchers show how solar could help turn around Appalachian economy
Appalachian Renewable Power - Solar / Courtesy An ARP-Solar crew at an Illinois solar site. The Ohio-based company does projects in a multistate area. The Ohio University study is the first to quantify the broad economic impact of utility-scale solar projects for the state. Coal’s downturn has taken a toll on Appalachian Ohio, but solar power could be one step on a … [Read more...] about Ohio researchers show how solar could help turn around Appalachian economy
Despite grim outlook, advanced energy could help lead economic recovery, experts say
City of St. Charles / Flickr / Creative Commons Workers install a 0.5-megawatt solar array in St. Charles. Illinois. An industry group’s report last week highlights clean energy job losses during the pandemic as well as their potential to rebound with the right policy support. Advanced energy — including energy efficiency and renewable power — provide … [Read more...] about Despite grim outlook, advanced energy could help lead economic recovery, experts say