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Illinois regulators deny utility rate increases

By Andy Balaskovitz

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UTILITIES: Illinois regulators reject separate $1 billion-plus rate increase requests from ComEd and Ameren, saying the proposals conflict with the state’s Climate and Equitable Jobs Act meant to keep rates affordable. (Sun-Times)

ALSO: Illinois regulators also reject Peoples Gas’ request to revisit a prior order cutting off spending on a pipeline replacement project that’s under investigation. (Sun-Times)

SOLAR:

  • An Illinois agency recommends a Chicago environmental justice group to receive $12.5 million in renewable energy credits for three community solar projects that would benefit Black, Brown, low and moderate-income subscribers. (Energy News Network)
  • Minnesota regulators unanimously dismiss a complaint filed by solar advocates that claimed Xcel Energy’s grid management is restricting rooftop and community solar installations. (Star Tribune)

RENEWABLES: The Grain Belt Express transmission line, along with potential commercial wind and solar projects, threaten the authenticity of an American Indian Wars-themed national park in Kansas, critics say. (The Journal)

HYDROGEN: Hydrogen derived from renewable energy to power Minnesota’s taconite mining industry holds promise to potentially make the region a leader in green steel production, experts say. (Energy News Network)

PIPELINES: The Army Corps of Engineers closes public comment on its environmental review of the Dakota Access pipeline, drawing lengthy support from the state and opposition from tribes concerned about water pollution. (North Dakota Monitor)

OIL & GAS: A late amendment to an Ohio bill would allow gas companies to add bill surcharges to support gas pipelines for major economic development projects. (WCMH)

NUCLEAR: Minnesota regulators fine Xcel Energy $14,000 for leaks of radioactive tritium earlier this year from a nuclear plant about 40 miles northwest of Minneapolis. (Associated Press) 

CARBON CAPTURE: A carbon capture and storage demonstration project at a North Dakota coal plant receives a $350 million grant from the Department of Energy. (Minot Daily News)

GRID: U.S. Rep. Sean Casten of Illinois co-sponsors legislation to spur interregional transmission development with tax credits and incentives for renewable energy projects in priority areas. (Utility Dive)

EFFICIENCY: Software developed at Purdue University that allows users to track their energy use and compare it with others has led to a 30% reduction in energy consumption across 130 homes in four Indiana cities. (Route Fifty)

POLITICS: Republican U.S. Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks of Iowa solidifies her climate position by supporting oil and gas but also the wind, solar and biofuels that are prominent in her home state. (E&E News, subscription)

COMMENTARY: The president of an advanced energy trade group says Michigan’s sweeping new climate laws are now a test case for the country to put ​“bold clean energy policies” into action. (Utility Dive)

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