Midwest

ENN

Across the country, a big backlash to new renewables is mounting

Climate goals and tax incentives are encouraging renewable energy development, sparking battles over loss of habitat and farmland and other concerns.

By Robert Zullo . 15 February 2023
ENN

Democrats wrestle with studying ‘advanced’ nuclear energy in wake of Minnesota carbon-free bill

The research might be something of an olive branch from Democrats to minority Republicans, who lambasted the DFL for refusing to lift a ban on new nuclear plants in the landmark electricity regulations signed by Gov. Tim Walz on Tuesday.

By Walker Orenstein . 10 February 2023
ENN

Householder trial: New evidence shows depth of long-suspected scheme

The evidence produced so far in the corruption case surrounding HB 6 in Ohio has provided some surprises, but it also confirms what many already knew.

By Kathiann M. Kowalski . 9 February 2023
ENN

Minnesota power co-op wants to invest in flexibility for fossil fuel peaker plant

Great River Energy is proposing to install equipment that would allow a central Minnesota peaker plant to burn fuel oil as well as natural gas. Environmental groups oppose the investment, which would increase air pollution.

By Frank Jossi . 8 February 2023
ENN

Midwest coalition pins hopes on federal funding for regional hydrogen hub

The Midwest Alliance for Clean Hydrogen says federal funding could launch a multi-faceted hydrogen boom in the Midwest.

By Kari Lydersen . 7 February 2023
ENN

Why attention to detail matters in the government’s HB 6 corruption trial

Opening argument last month gave a bird’s eye view of what the prosecution plans to show in its criminal case. Now the government is laying out the hundreds of puzzle pieces from which they hope jurors will see the big picture.

By Kathiann M. Kowalski . 6 February 2023
ENN

Illinois county offered payments to back Navigator carbon dioxide pipeline

Officials in McDonough County passed a pipeline moratorium last year; developers are offering 30 years of payments in exchange for “good faith” support of the project.

By Kari Lydersen . 3 February 2023
ENN

A hidden challenge for Minneapolis climate goals: shoddy insulation

In the country’s coldest large city, an analysis reveals that about two-thirds of homes listed for sale since 2020 had inadequate insulation. Addressing the problem is key to reducing emissions and preparing for heat pumps.

By Frank Jossi . 3 February 2023
ENN

Solar for Good: Arrays keep rolling out in Wisconsin, thanks to innovative program

Couillard Solar Foundation’s unique model helps Wisconsin schools and nonprofits benefit from solar, despite a lack of legal clarity around third-party-owned installations in the state.

By Kari Lydersen . 26 January 2023
ENN

Coal ash crackdown continues as EPA denies extensions for six power plants

The move signals the agency’s commitment to enforce 2015 federal rules that had been widely flaunted by companies and ignored by regulators.

By Kari Lydersen . 25 January 2023