Midwest

Fossil fuels

Federal regulators reject MISO’s plan to fast-track gas plants

FERC says the Midwest grid operator’s proposal would cause more problems than it would solve in a victory for clean power, reliability, and energy developers.

By Jeff St. John . 19 May 2025
Clean energy jobs

From EVs to HVAC, clean energy means jobs in Central Illinois

Decatur has been losing factory jobs for years. A clean energy workforce hub promises renewal — and provides training for students from disenfranchised communities.

By Kari Lydersen . 19 May 2025
Emissions reduction

The country’s biggest grid operator has a new tool to track emissions

Utilities, states, and Big Tech firms want to know how dirty their grid power is. MISO and startup Singularity have rolled out a tool that can show them.

By Jeff St. John . 14 May 2025
Energy storage

Illinois’ grid needs batteries. Can the legislature deliver?

State leaders are deliberating how to bring more energy storage online. But the clock is ticking to pass a pivotal bill as the legislative session nears its end.

By Kari Lydersen . 12 May 2025
Transmission

How fast-tracking fossil gas could snarl the Midwest grid

MISO’s plan to let gas plants cut the interconnection line is unfair, costly, and counter to grid reliability goals, former federal regulators and advocates say.

By Jeff St. John . 6 May 2025
Solar

Largest solar farm east of the Mississippi provides more than just power

The project helps Chicago and one of its universities meet climate goals, but it will also be a case study for researchers examining the impacts of large-scale solar.

By Kari Lydersen . 2 May 2025
Clean energy jobs

Illinois’ clean energy transition needs workers. ComEd is training them.

The utility’s Academy programs are helping women and people of color start careers in clean energy. A new crop of workers just graduated.

By Audrey Henderson . 1 May 2025
Solar

Minnesota bill could 'all but stop' rural small-scale solar installs

The legislation, which has enthusiastic support from rural electric cooperatives, would slash bill credits for future solar customers in much of the state.

By Brian Martucci . 25 April 2025
Utilities

Ohio’s HB 6 utility scandal gets true-crime treatment in HBO film

“The Dark Money Game: Ohio Confidential” is now streaming on MAX. A Canary Media reporter who’s spent years covering the corrupt energy legislation offers her take.

By Kathiann M. Kowalski, Dan Haugen . 24 April 2025
Clean energy

Chicago Teachers Union secures clean energy wins in new contract

The contract requires the district to update its climate action plan, create clean energy job training programs, and install more heat pumps and solar panels.

By Kari Lydersen . 21 April 2025