Why Wisconsin’s environment is better protected in this Trump term

CONSERVATION: Unlike Trump’s first term as president, Wisconsin this time around will have Democratic leadership in the governor’s and attorney general’s office and the state Supreme Court that can be protective of the environment, advocates say. (Wisconsin Examiner)

CLEAN ENERGY:

• Veterans now make up more than 10% of Iowa’s energy workforce as officials say military experience can translate well to clean energy skills. (Cedar Rapids Gazette)
• Iowa clean energy advocates say the cost and environmental benefits of renewable energy are too big to ignore as they prepare for President-elect Trump’s energy policies that will likely support fossil fuels. (Cedar Rapids Gazette)

NUCLEAR: The nuclear sector has mixed views on Trump’s potential support for the industry in his second term based on comments made during the campaign trail. (Utility Dive)

CLIMATE:

• A climate economist says ​“fundamental market forces are at play” that would make it difficult for Trump to undo progress on clean energy deployment. (Grist)
• Climate advocates say they’ve built more organized and collaborative coalitions to combat Trump’s potential efforts to derail U.S. climate action. (Inside Climate News)

EFFICIENCY: Federal regulators approve PJM’s proposal to stop including energy efficiency resources in capacity auctions, agreeing that it will help reduce electricity bills. (Utility Dive)

UTILITIES:

• Wisconsin regulators approve rate increases for two WEC Energy Group utilities that executives say will pay for grid maintenance and renewable energy but consumer advocates call a missed opportunity to tackle affordability. (Wisconsin Public Radio)
• Michigan regulators approve a rate increase for DTE Energy’s gas utility but will require steps to reduce emissions and costs and to consider environmental justice in future plans. (Michigan Public)