The Latest from Mark Olalde

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  ENN

  Support grows for taxpayer-funded oil well cleanup as an economic stimulus

  Democrats leading the push say their plan has no real downside, while critics say it gives the industry a pass.

  By Mark Olalde  .  23 June 2020

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  ENN

  Cleaning up after Ohio’s oil and gas industry brings a growing price tag

  An analysis of state contracts to plug orphaned wells reveals that cleanup costs might creep into the billions of dollars.

  By Mark Olalde  .  15 January 2020

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  ENN

  Midwest coal producers attempt to cut costs, escalating pollution worries

  “They’re trying to cut regulations and to cut corners”: Experts see an Illinois water permit fight as a sign of things to come for the struggling coal industry.

  By Mark Olalde  .  13 January 2020

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  ENN

  Colorado co-op vote sets table for defection from coal power wholesaler

  A Colorado electric cooperative could strike the latest blow against a regional power wholesaler facing complaints that it has moved too slowly in its transition to renewable energy.

  By Mark Olalde  .  31 August 2018

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  ENN

  Mine cleanup funds at risk as coal power suppliers lose customers

  The defection of local electric cooperatives from a Colorado power wholesaler could imperil cleanup funds for coal mines in two Western states, according to an environmental group’s complaint to federal regulators.

  By Mark Olalde  .  20 August 2018

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  ENN

  Illinois regulators stymied in pursuit of coal mine cleanup funds

  Money that coal companies are legally required to set aside for cleaning up abandoned mines isn't always easy to access when needed.

  By Mark Olalde  .  18 July 2018

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  ENN

  Ohio diverts money from coal mine cleanup fund as risk of closures rises

  A $5 million transfer from a fund meant to guarantee environmental cleanup of shuttered coal mines in Ohio could prolong reclamation efforts or leave taxpayers on the hook in the event of unexpected closures.

  By Mark Olalde  .  29 May 2018