Affordability

Data centers

PJM’s big new data center plan: Make the states figure it out

Grid operator PJM wants states and utilities to hold data centers responsible for buying their own power — or risk being cut off from grid service.

By Jeff St. John . 5 August 2026

Data center building with construction equipment on a dirt lot, with a nuclear power reactor behind it — A data center owned by Amazon Web Services under construction in Berwick, Pennsylvania, in January 2025 (AP Photo/Ted Shaffrey, File)

Data centers

Data centers take center stage in Wisconsin governor’s race

As the AI buildout spikes energy demand, Democrats and one Republican offer solutions ranging from ramping up clean energy to instituting ratepayer protections.

By Kari Lydersen . 4 August 2026
Solar

Illinois Solar for All is, at last, taking off

The state’s solar equity program has been in place for nearly a decade, but it wasn’t until recently, after years of grassroots efforts, that participation surged.

By Kari Lydersen . 3 August 2026
Fossil fuels

The coal industry gave Trump a wish list. He’s checking items off it.

The Trump admin is propping up the aging coal fleet despite the financial and environmental costs — and also making far-fetched plans to build new coal plants.

By Jeff St. John . 29 July 2026
Batteries

Want a home battery on a budget? Consider a portable, DIY system.

Power stations that recharge from the sun, a car, or a home outlet can keep appliances going in an outage. Some can even help lower electric bills.

By Alison F. Takemura . 28 July 2026
Electric vehicles

Solar-powered EV carshare pilot launches in Massachusetts

The aim? To expand access to electric vehicles among lower-income residents of Massachusetts, which has big EV dreams as it tries to decarbonize.

By Sarah Shemkus . 28 July 2026
Electric vehicles

California to offer a novel $3,500 rebate for first-time EV buyers

Research shows that once drivers try an EV, they stick with them. That's why these incentives target those who’ve never owned one to maximize the bang for the buck.

By Jeff St. John . 27 July 2026
Batteries

Startup offers low-cost home batteries to Massachusetts residents

The subscription-based approach aims to make it easier and more affordable to get a backup battery in your home. And it might be catching on.

By Sarah Shemkus . 21 July 2026
Solar

Balcony solar is sweeping the US, but who's actually selling it?

As consumer interest surges and state legislators get on board, a few businesses have jumped into the domestic market.

By Julian Spector . 21 July 2026
Utilities

Massachusetts bill would end a costly gas pipeline repair program

Utilities say the GSEP program is essential for safety and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, but critics contend it costs too much and achieves too little.

By Sarah Shemkus . 20 July 2026
Data centers

New Jersey law will let data centers pay for home energy upgrades

In a first, the state could speed up data centers’ grid connection if they bankroll energy-saving residential tech like heat pumps and batteries.

By Alison F. Takemura . 16 July 2026