Major Minnesota solar project set to move forward

SOLAR: Minnesota regulators are poised to approve a 250 MW solar project for Xcel Energy, the last of three large solar projects totaling $1.1 billion that will replace a massive coal plant. (Star Tribune)

ALSO:

• Ameren acquires the rights to a 150 MW solar project in western Illinois that will be completed by the end of the year. (Journal Courier)
• Minnesota’s attorney general announces four new settlements that prevent multiple former solar installers from doing business in the state after being accused of deceptive practices. (KIMT)

CLEAN ENERGY: Officials reopen a highly advanced machine at Argonne National Laboratory in Illinois that will help provide new insights into various fields of research, including battery storage and clean energy. (WLS)

CLIMATE: Record-breaking flooding and deadly tornado events are evidence that climate change is ​“right in front of your face,” says the mayor of a western Iowa city. (Radio Iowa)

WIND: Two utilities submit a habitat conservation plan for protecting endangered bats to federal officials for a large wind project that would span parts of Iowa and Minnesota. (E&E News, subscription)

TRANSPORTATION:

• EVs are taken into dealerships at a rate three times higher than gas-powered cars, according to a new J.D. Power study, though issues with infotainment systems and other non-driving functions are the most common reason for repairs. (Automotive Dive)
• A cross-country race of solar-powered vehicles makes a stop in Nebraska next week at a national park. (News Channel Nebraska)
• Stellantis will offer customers two new incentives when buying electric vehicles: A free Level 2 home charging station or $600 worth of charging credits. (Automotive Dive)

STORAGE: A Michigan startup is close to raising $5.6 million to commercialize an energy storage battery made from cheaper organic compounds instead of nickel, cobalt and other metals that need to be mined. (Crain’s Grand Rapids, subscription)

UTILITIES: Missouri’s consumer advocate reports that electric and gas rates in the state have been increasing faster than inflation and wages, primarily because of utility infrastructure investments. (KBIA)

COMMENTARY: Federal and state officials should take steps to ensure low-income renters whose utility bills are included in their rent have access to community solar projects, a solar installer writes. (Solar Power World)