Northeast

ENN

Combustion of plastics could be creating a surge in waste-to-energy plants’ climate emissions

Incineration of plastics containing “forever chemicals” could be generating potent greenhouse gas emissions, but testing methods are not yet in place.

By Marina Schauffler . 25 February 2022
ENN

Rhode Island attorney general seeks emergency order to block utility sale

Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha has filed for an emergency stay seeking to block the proposed sale of the state’s largest gas and electric distribution utility pending an appeal over the buyer’s climate commitments.

By Lisa Prevost . 24 February 2022
ENN

What does environmental justice look like in Vermont? Bill seeks to answer

After years of outreach by environmental justice advocates, a proposal is advancing in Vermont that would create rules to ensure environmental benefits and burdens are equitably distributed across the state.

By David Thill . 24 February 2022
ENN

As Connecticut falls behind on emission goals, activists want teeth added to law

Connecticut citizens can already sue the state for failing to protect air, water, and other natural resources. Now, climate groups want the same enforcement mechanism extended to the state’s 2008 climate law.

By Lisa Prevost . 23 February 2022
ENN

Mass. building code draft renews push for local autonomy on natural gas bans

A proposed building code update in Massachusetts would allow an option for continued use of fossil fuels in new construction, prompting cities and towns to renew a push for legal authority to prohibit new natural gas hookups.

By Sarah Shemkus . 21 February 2022
ENN

Advocates: Don’t raid efficiency funds to pay for R.I. climate council

A proposal by Gov. Dan McKee would fund the state’s climate change council by diverting money from ratepayer-funded energy efficiency programs. Critics say the move would be ill considered and unfair to utility customers.

By Lisa Prevost . 11 February 2022
ENN

Commentary: Clean energy can help solve New England's natural gas woes

By reducing our reliance on natural gas and instead investing in renewables, New Englanders could see reduced rate increases and stable electricity supply, writes guest commentator Adam Gallaher.

By Adam Gallaher . 11 February 2022
ENN

How governors races may change energy, from EVs to renewables

Closely contested races in Pennsylvania, Arizona, Georgia and Florida will determine the future of emissions reduction pledges and clean energy development.

By Miranda Willson . 8 February 2022
ENN

Vermont gas utility has a new service: helping to electrify your home

Vermont Gas Systems announced that it would begin selling, leasing, installing and servicing electric heat pump water heaters for customers in a move that it expects to be neutral to its bottom line.

By David Thill . 7 February 2022
ENN

4 things to know about Connecticut’s new energy storage incentive program

Connecticut regulators are offering upfront money to help pay for the installation of an in-home or business battery system, and customers can earn more money by allowing utilities to tap into them during peak demand.

By Lisa Prevost . 4 February 2022