Midwest

Solar

Solar farms don't hurt nearby property values, new research finds

In fact, utility-scale solar projects can modestly boost property values, according to data from the Midwest.

By Kari Lydersen . 7 October 2024
Transmission

Why won’t PJM let batteries and clean power bolster a stressed-out grid?

The country’s biggest grid operator is preventing developers from adding batteries to existing projects that have extra grid space, in defiance of a federal mandate.

By Jeff St. John . 3 October 2024
Clean energy manufacturing

Michigan bets on EVs to revive its economy — and hopes jobs will follow

The swing state's Democratic leaders want to channel historic manufacturing prowess toward clean energy. Success will hinge on the November election.

By Julian Spector . 2 October 2024
ENN

Illinois program’s ‘wraparound’ approach helps formerly incarcerated people land solar industry jobs

The Renewing Sovereignty Project, which provides social and financial support for participants leaving the justice system, had a 100% placement rate in its first year.

By Audrey Henderson . 1 October 2024
Nuclear

The hottest trend in nuclear power: Reopening shuttered plants

The Palisades nuclear plant in Michigan just closed a $1.5B federal loan to reopen, the latest in a push to restart retired nuclear plants amid rising power demand.

By Eric Wesoff . 30 September 2024
ENN

Ohio drought renews worries about massive use of water for fracking

A water conservancy district has imposed some limits for the first time, but critics want more done to protect water resources.

By Kathiann M. Kowalski . 26 September 2024
ENN

Vacant urban land poses complex questions for clean energy siting

Projects in Chicago and Detroit show challenges of ensuring energy projects mesh with residents’ vision for their community.

By Audrey Henderson . 23 September 2024
Green steel

Big green steel project in Ohio is on again after CEO waffles

After raising doubts, Cleveland-Cliffs says it’s still pursuing a federal $500M award. The flip-flop points to the challenges of cleaning up the steel industry.

By Maria Gallucci . 19 September 2024
Carbon-free buildings

Major Ohio cities aim to cut building emissions with voluntary program

A $10M Inflation Reduction Act grant will help Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, and Dayton collaborate on new building performance standards.

By Kathiann M. Kowalski . 18 September 2024
ENN

Minnesota advocates say their alternative to Xcel’s plan for new gas plants could save customers up to $3.5 billion

A coalition of clean energy organizations hired experts to model alternatives, and found adding a single gas plant alongside a mix of existing plants, energy storage, efficiency and demand response, and market purchases that could avoid the risk of stranded assets.

By Frank Jossi . 17 September 2024