Policy & regulation

Clean energy

6 clean energy companies that are ramping up US manufacturing

The Inflation Reduction Act provides billions of dollars in tax credits and loans, helping to spur investment in domestic production.

By Shel Evergreen . 21 September 2022
Emissions reduction

California could ban new gas heaters after 2030. The goal: Healthier air

Ditching fossil-gas furnaces and water heaters isn't just good for the climate. Research shows it's a smart move for human health.

By Jeff St. John . 20 September 2022
Utilities

Why does Duke Energy's carbon plan shortchange solar?

The utility wants to build new gas plants. Its critics want it to build far more solar and batteries. North Carolina regulators have until year's end to decide.

By Jeff St. John . 19 September 2022
Solar

How solar donors can cut the power bills of low-income families

Boston-based Resonant Energy pioneers a new way to share solar savings with disadvantaged communities in Massachusetts.

By Alison F. Takemura . 16 September 2022
Wind

Chart: California's big bet on offshore wind

The state has a goal to build 25 GW of offshore wind by 2045, most of it floating turbines — enough to provide 25% of its electricity.

By Maria Virginia Olano . 16 September 2022
Grid edge

Californians saved the grid again. They should be paid more for it

Smart thermostats, solar-charged batteries, EVs and other household devices can shore up the stressed grid. Why isn't the state going all in on incentives?

By Jeff St. John . 15 September 2022
Food and farms

What exactly is 'climate-smart agriculture'?

The new climate law will direct big bucks toward regenerative farming practices. But is that good climate policy?

By Michael Grunwald . 12 September 2022
Solar

California is finally unlocking community solar for the masses

A newly passed bill will open up community solar subscriptions for people who can’t put panels on their roofs — and deliver clean power when the grid needs it most.

By Julian Spector . 8 September 2022
Nuclear

California faces big power challenges — even if Diablo Canyon stays open

Lawmakers voted to keep the state’s last nuclear plant operating, but California still needs to massively ramp up renewable energy, grid storage, efficiency and distributed energy.

By Jeff St. John . 2 September 2022
Fossil fuels

Hawaii just got rid of coal power for good

Next up: finding new roles for coal plant workers — and keeping the lights on during a global energy crisis.

By Julian Spector . 1 September 2022