Minneapolis storage project tests concept for sharing solar with neighbors

SOLAR: A Minneapolis pilot project will test the concept of a ​“virtual power plant” in which solar-generating customers share power without going through a utility. (Energy News Network)

ALSO:
• Pushback from Indiana utilities and lawmakers could limit the state’s role in a nationwide solar buildout this decade. (Indiana Environmental Reporter)
• Wisconsin regulators approve permits for a 100 MW solar project while denying attorneys fees from opponents of another 465 MW solar project. (Wisconsin State Journal)
• Local officials break ground on a 100 MW solar project in eastern Wisconsin. (WEAU)

UTILITIES: Evergy plans to keep open part of a Kansas coal plant to run occasionally on natural gas while scaling back its proposal to add 350 MW of solar by 2023, citing ​“challenges with specific near-term solar projects.” (Missouri Independent)

TRANSMISSION: Investment banking analysts say American Electric Power’s large transmission rate base and geographic location would allow it to benefit from a large-scale renewable energy and transmission buildout. (Utility Dive)

PIPELINES: Nearly 900 people have been arrested during Line 3 pipeline protests, straining public defense resources in northern Minnesota counties. (MPR News)

WIND: University of Minnesota research on bald eagles’ response to noise may help create acoustic deterrents at wind farms. (Star Tribune)

CARBON STORAGE: An Iowa task force hears recommendations for tax credits and other incentives for farmers and businesses to help develop the state’s carbon capture and storage market. (Globe Gazette)

BIOFUELS: The owners of a defunct biofuels plant in northeastern Nebraska will pay a $1.1 million fine to the state and federal governments for repeated environmental violations. (Associated Press)

CLEAN ENERGY: A city task force in western Michigan recommends that the municipal utility adopt more aggressive renewable energy and efficiency targets. (Holland Sentinel)

COAL: U.S. coal production is up 11% from levels a year ago, with the Illinois Basin showing the highest recent growth in the nation. (S&P Global)

COMMENTARY: A coalition of cities in PJM’s territory says federal regulators should mostly undo the grid operator’s Minimum Offer Price Rule that threatens state and local clean energy goals. (Utility Dive)