The Latest from Dan Rafter

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  Dynamic display gives Chicago building 'daily challenge' on energy

  A Chicago office building is making strides on efficiency, in part because of a unique dynamic display that gives occupants real-time information on energy use.

  By Dan Rafter  .  20 June 2016

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  Group solar purchases helping Midwest cities cut carbon emissions

  The Illinois city of Urbana is hoping that by making solar more affordable for its residents it can help meet its own goals of reducing greenhouse gases.

  By Dan Rafter  .  6 January 2016

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  Some Midwest suburbs exploring life beyond the car

  Suburban communities across the country are creating public-private partnerships to encourage developers to build dense walkable development near transit hubs.

  By Dan Rafter  .  19 October 2015

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  The power of willow and switchgrass: Scientists, farmers team up on bioenergy experiment

  An experiment by Argonne National Laboratory in Central Illinois explores the potential of formerly overlooked plants such as willow and switchgrass for bioenergy feedstock, offering farmers a possibly lucrative use for difficult land and preventing nitrogen pollution to boot.

  By Dan Rafter  .  25 August 2015

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  Opponents of Illinois coal mine not backing down

  After more than five years, a proposed underground coal mine in central Illinois remains in a holding pattern. But as permitting processes drag on, landowners opposed to the Bulldog Mine have not let down their guard.

  By Dan Rafter  .  1 July 2015