Colorado defends lack of oil refinery oversight

OVERSIGHT: Colorado regulators defend their lack of oversight of an oil refinery over almost a decade of pollution violations. (Denver Post)

COAL: Peabody announces plans to discontinue healthcare benefits for non-represented and retired employees, declaring the coverage ​“not sustainable.” (Casper Star-Tribune)

CLIMATE: Idaho environmental advocates are hopeful about the possible impact of Biden-Harris climate policies in the state. (Idaho Statesman)

OIL & GAS:
• New Mexico is now requiring oil and gas operators to report the amount and quality of water used to drill and complete wells. (Albuquerque Journal)
• Oil and gas drilling in Colorado dropped 13% between May and August compared to the same period in 2019 due to decreased demand amid the coronavirus pandemic. (Colorado Public Radio News)
• A oil-industry backed political group is circulating a petition in a Southern California county aiming to overturn new rules requiring environmental review for oil and gas projects done under ​“antiquated permits.” (Ventura County Star)
• A coalition of oil operators and trade associations is exploring technological solutions to flaring and emissions problems in the Texas side of the Permian Basin. (Midland Telegram-Reporter)

MICROGRIDS: A PG&E microgrid aiming to keep the power on in two Northern California towns during public safety power shutoffs should be online soon. (Chico Enterprise-Record)

SOLAR: The owner of a New Mexico solar installation firm says the transition to renewable energy is necessary even in oil communities. (Searchlight New Mexico)

TRANSMISSION: Wyoming’s largest utility completes a $700 million transmission expansion project on schedule. (Casper Star-Tribune)

TRANSPORTATION: The director of Jackson, Wyoming’s bus system says its battery-electric buses will help reduce emissions along with providing cost effective, clean, efficient transportation. (CleanTechnica)

COMMENTARY:
• Outgoing New Mexico Senator Richard Martinez explains why a waiver for New Mexico from any drilling ban is critical. (Albuquerque Journal)
• An environmentalist remains ​“cautiously optimistic” about the benefits of removing a Northern California hydroelectric dam, particularly for endangered fish species. (Woodland Daily Democrat)