Does NIPSCO need more gas?

UTILITIES: Critics say NIPSCO’s plan for a 400 MW natural gas-powered peaker unit at a former Indiana coal plant is unnecessary and out of line with the utility’s clean energy goals. (Energy News Network)

HYDROELECTRIC: Michigan residents living near 13 aging hydroelectric dams raise concerns about recreation and quality of life disruptions if the facilities are decommissioned. (MLive)

WIND: More than 90% of Iowa’s agricultural acres with foreign investments aren’t owned by foreign entities but are in long-term leases for wind farms. (Cedar Rapids Gazette)

PIPELINES:

• A consulting firm releases a study saying energy markets would adapt and offer alternatives if Line 5 is shut down in the Straits of Mackinac. (WDIV)
• Bismarck, North Dakota, asks to formally intervene in state regulators’ reconsideration of Summit Carbon Solutions’ multi-state carbon pipeline. (Bismarck Tribune)

EFFICIENCY: A Minnesota community action agency formed in the 1960s continues work to weatherize homes for income-qualifying residents. (MPR)

OIL AND GAS: A nearly $4 million grant from the Canadian government will help researchers study the behavior and potential impacts of oil spills in the Great Lakes. (MLive)

ELECTRIFICATION: Two Michigan electric heat pump makers planning new manufacturing facilities are awarded part of $169 million in federal Inflation Reduction Act funding. (Crain’s Detroit Business, subscription)

COMMENTARY: The CEO of ComEd says a new partnership with an Illinois nonprofit supports clean energy workforce development and job training. (Chicago Sun-Times)