Articles

Solar

Virginia’s new law blocks counties from banning solar

Two-thirds of the state’s counties ban or heavily limit solar. Now, those blanket restrictions are going away, though counties can still bar individual projects.

By Elizabeth Ouzts . 28 April 2026
Energy efficiency

Why are blue states scapegoating energy efficiency?

Energy-efficiency programs yield long-term benefits for utility bills and the climate. We found three reasons why Democrats are looking to cut them anyway.

By Sarah Shemkus . 28 April 2026
Utilities

Supreme Court won’t hear appeal in Ohio utility bribery case

It’s the end of the line for the only two people serving prison time related to the HB 6 scandal, which cost utility customers big and stymied clean energy.

By Kathiann M. Kowalski . 27 April 2026
Food and farms

Trump is blocking solar for farmers. Can the Farm Bill fix that?

REAP had been helping farmers go solar and save money since 2008, until Trump came along. A looming Farm Bill vote could seal its fate — or solve its problems.

By Kari Lydersen . 27 April 2026
Politics

Fossil fuel promoters tied to campaign to keep Ohio county renewable ban

Richland County voters are deciding whether to reject a wind and solar ban. Organizations linked to pro-gas interests have given money to keep it in place.

By Kathiann M. Kowalski . 24 April 2026
Solar

Solar power soared last year — and it’s not slowing down

More and more countries are hitting new solar generation records, and those that are still relying on fossil fuels have good reason to catch up.

By Kathryn Krawczyk . 24 April 2026
Utilities

Duke Energy’s proactive grid upgrades under fire from electric co-ops

In North Carolina, the utility has a unique new approach to improve its grid and add solar, but co-ops are complaining to FERC about the cost.

By Elizabeth Ouzts . 24 April 2026
Nuclear

Which countries lead the way on nuclear energy?

The U.S. still produces more electricity from nuclear energy than any other nation, but China’s rapid buildout of new reactors is closing the gap.

By Dan McCarthy . 24 April 2026
Offshore wind

Another offshore wind firm is seeking a payout as Trump stifles sector

Engie is talking to the Trump administration about canceling its U.S. offshore wind leases, even as a similar $1 billion deal with TotalEnergies sparks legal concerns.

By Maria Gallucci . 24 April 2026
Politics

Maryland bill trades cost-saving energy efficiency for short-term relief

Advocates say Maryland lawmakers passed energy proposals, including one on nuclear subsidies, without adequate analysis or public debate during the 2026 session.

By Aman Azar . 23 April 2026