Wisconsin lawmakers scramble to save federal EV funding

ELECTRIC VEHICLES: A pair of Wisconsin Republican lawmakers circulate legislation that would allow private businesses to own and operate EV charging stations without being regulated as a utility — a necessary change for the state to qualify for $78 million in federal funding. (WPR, Cap Times)

ALSO: A Minnesota snowmobile company ramps up production of an all-electric utility terrain vehicle it hopes can help the U.S. military phase out fossil fuel-powered vehicles. (E&E News, subscription)

SOLAR:

• Crews are assembling a first-of-its-kind floating solar project that will eventually cover a water treatment reservoir north of Columbus, Ohio. (WCMH)
• Indiana county officials will reconsider a previously approved tax abatement deal with a solar developer following public opposition. (Muncie Star Press)
• A solar installation at an Indiana elementary school is expected to be completed in the next four to six weeks. (Herald Bulletin)

CLIMATE:

• Des Moines, Iowa’s city council is set to consider a new climate action plan aimed at archiving net-zero emissions by 2050. (Des Moines Register)
• University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers say atmospheric carbon removal needs to accelerate to meet global climate goals. (WPR)
• Michigan officials will host the first in a series of events Thursday in Grand Rapids to gather input on implementing the state’s new climate plan. (WOOD)
• Changes in seasonal weather patterns are creating problems for Michigan farmers, highlighting their vulnerability to climate change. (Great Lakes Echo)

COAL ASH: The owners of a North Dakota coal ash recycling facility announce an expansion that will enable it to process another 400,000 tons per year into cement alternatives. (InForum)

TRANSIT: Cleveland’s regional transit agency seeks employer partners for a microtransit pilot aimed at bridging first- and last-mile service gaps. (Cleveland Scene)

GRID: Willmar, Minnesota’s municipal utility this fall approved several transmission projects and the installation of four new diesel generators. (West Central Tribune)

COMMENTARY: A union leader says a regional hydrogen hub will benefit Minnesota’s economy and environment by creating jobs and clean fuel. (Duluth News Tribune)