Midwest

Utilities

Time-based rates convince Chicago-area residents to shift electricity use

ComEd is the latest major utility to adopt voluntary time-of-use rates, which can save residents — particularly EV owners — money on their energy bills.

By Kari Lydersen . 12 March 2025
Clean energy

Illinois proves states have a lot of power to advance clean energy

The state is working on its third major climate bill in the last decade, after the past two propelled solar deployment and clean jobs.

By Kathryn Krawczyk . 7 March 2025
Solar

Another big Ohio solar project bites the dust

The Grange Solar project would have brought millions of dollars in economic benefits to the area, but state regulatory staff deemed it not in the public interest.

By Kathiann M. Kowalski . 7 March 2025
Transmission

After groundbreaking bills on jobs and solar, Illinois tackles the grid

State lawmakers are pushing for more grid-enhancing tech, gigawatts of new energy storage, and the creation of a virtual power plant program.

By Kari Lydersen . 3 March 2025
Utilities

In Ohio, another attempt to repeal HB 6 coal subsidies

This month’s developments include Ohio lawmakers hearing testimony on bills that would finally axe HB 6 subsidies for two 1950s-era coal plants.

By Kathiann M. Kowalski . 28 February 2025
Electric vehicles

Electric school buses could help power Illinois’ grid

ComEd is preparing a vehicle-to-grid pilot program in which school districts will sell power to the grid by discharging parked electric school bus batteries.

By Kari Lydersen . 26 February 2025
Nuclear

Holtec unveils plan for small modular reactors at Palisades nuclear site

The firm intends to make history by reopening the Michigan nuclear facility and building the nation’s first SMRs within the next five years.

By Alexander C. Kaufman . 25 February 2025
Solar

Are Ohio solar critics speaking as elected officials — or as neighbors?

State regulators deciding the fate of a proposed solar farm shouldn’t view local leaders’ opinions as official government positions, the project developer argues.

By Kathiann M. Kowalski . 24 February 2025
Heat pumps

For one Minnesotan, a new heat pump brings comfort and savings

Even in one of the coldest cities in the U.S., Kathy Palmer’s heat pump helps displace gas heating, lowers heating bills, and makes her home more comfortable.

By Alison F. Takemura . 20 February 2025
Solar

Rural Ohioans oppose solar farms, right? Not so, developer finds

A large majority of public commenters support Open Road Renewables' plan to build a big agrivoltaics project in central Ohio.

By Kathiann M. Kowalski . 19 February 2025