Policy & regulation

Utilities

Google’s new plan to keep its data centers from stressing the grid

AI data centers are set to swamp U.S. power grids. Google’s new utility deals aim to flip the script — shifting workloads to ease strain and speed its access to energy.

By Jeff St. John . 28 August 2025
Fossil fuels

As Trump delays steel pollution rules, study shows public health risks

An environmental report maps toxic air pollution near U.S. coal-based steel facilities. The Trump EPA has postponed rules meant to clean up industry.

By Maria Gallucci . 28 August 2025
Solar

How affordable housing can still go solar, despite Trump turbulence

The Trump admin is trying to claw back funding for low-income solar, but projects can still save residents money if local financing fills in the gaps.

By Jeff St. John . 27 August 2025
Emissions reduction

North Carolina ditched its 2030 climate goal. Now what?

Rising power demand and the low cost of renewables may give wind and solar a fighting chance even though Duke Energy no longer has to cut emissions in the near term.

By Elizabeth Ouzts . 26 August 2025
Offshore wind

New Hampshire, never big on offshore wind, steps back further

State leaders enacted a law mandating a key agency to steer clear of the sector, a practical and symbolic move as the Trump administration continues its attacks.

By Sarah Shemkus . 26 August 2025
Land use

Trump admin’s new anti-renewables rule rooted in fossil-fuel misinformation

The Interior Department’s directive casts solar and wind energy as bad for the environment, without weighing costs of oil, coal, and gas, critics say.

By Kathiann M. Kowalski . 25 August 2025
Solar

Trump admin blocks funds for farmers who want solar

For two decades, thousands of farmers have installed money-saving solar panels with help from the federal REAP program. Trump’s USDA is choking off that resource.

By Kari Lydersen . 22 August 2025
Policy & regulation

Chart: Yes, US power prices are rising. Don’t blame clean energy.

Household costs have been going up since 2020 due to an aging grid, natural disasters, and volatile gas prices. Trump is making things worse.

By Dan McCarthy, Ysabelle Kempe . 22 August 2025
Fossil fuels

Trump admin orders dirty, expensive coal plant to stay open even longer

Keeping J.H. Campbell open past its slated close is costing Midwest households big. Advocates fear that more such orders are on the way.

By Jeff St. John . 21 August 2025
Virtual power plants

California’s biggest virtual power plant may get a funding reprieve

Home batteries enrolled in the program can provide 700 MW of cost-effective grid support, new analysis finds — but only if state lawmakers preserve its funding.

By Jeff St. John . 21 August 2025