Midwest

ENN

Federal boost helps tech race from lab to car

Michigan Technological University and Ohio State University are working to reduce fuel and energy consumption by using automated and connected vehicle technologies

By Katie Pyzyk . 9 April 2021
ENN

In Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, proposed utility sale rekindles energy debate

Upper Peninsula Power Company customers pay some of the highest rates in the country. An investment fund says it has a plan to restructure debt to lower costs, but some question how much can be done without broader changes.

By Tom Perkins . 7 April 2021
ENN

Former Chicago hospital site provides a blank slate for equitable, efficient development

Redevelopment of the Bronzeville Lakefront promises to create tens of thousands of jobs near the former hospital site and hopes to be home to “the greenest building in the country.”

By Audrey Henderson . 6 April 2021
ENN

Minneapolis program puts energy audits into hands of potential homebuyers

In its first year, a city ordinance requiring energy audits prior to home sales resulted in more than 6,200 reports disclosing the conditions of windows, insulation, and heating systems for prospective buyers and new owners.

By Frank Jossi . 5 April 2021
ENN

Minnesota’s community solar program is leaving poorer people in the shade

Community solar ends up prioritizing commercial clients in Minnesota. New models aimed at energy-burdened residents are trying to change that.

By Andrew Hazzard . 5 April 2021
ENN

Kansas utilities are getting a new tool to retire coal plants. Will they use it?

A coal securitization bill passed its final legislative hurdle this week with large bipartisan majorities in both chambers. The governor is widely expected to sign, but what happens after that is far less certain.

By Karen Uhlenhuth . 2 April 2021
ENN

Michigan tribe seeks cultural property protection in path of Line 5 project

The Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians is seeking to designate the Straits of Mackinac as a Traditional Cultural Property following the discovery last fall of a potential archaeological site.

By Patrick Shea . 1 April 2021
ENN

Solar energy chasing nuclear capacity in Ohio, but lawmakers could slow its gains

A new analysis shows that Ohio’s project pipeline could put solar within striking distance of the state’s nuclear capacity, undercutting state officials’ views that nuclear holds the state’s only potential for large-scale, carbon-free power.

By Kathiann M. Kowalski . 30 March 2021
ENN

Nebraska utility could slash emissions at little or no added cost, studies show

A pair of reports by independent consultants both conclude that the Nebraska Public Power District could eliminate most of its carbon emissions without having to spend significantly more than it would otherwise for power.

By Karen Uhlenhuth . 29 March 2021
ENN

Groundbreaking low-carbon geothermal project might emerge in Minneapolis

The triangle of land along the BNSF rail yard between the Surly Brewery, the University of Minnesota and Minneapolis’ Prospect Park neighborhood might soon be one of the most energy efficient communities in the state.

By Bill Lindeke . 29 March 2021