Regulators in California decline proposals to ban gas appliances
In a series of developments across the nation, various states and regions are making strides in the realm of clean energy. Here's a snapshot of some of the latest news:
California County Streamlines Solar Permitting
In an effort to simplify residential solar installations, a California county has adopted an online permitting app. This move is expected to expedite the process and make solar energy more accessible for homeowners.
Colorado Battles Abandoned Mine Waste Fire
Regulators in Colorado are currently working to extinguish a fire in an abandoned coal mine waste site. The incident highlights the ongoing challenges in managing the aftermath of coal mining operations.
Southern California Rejects Gas Phase-Out Proposal
A proposal aimed at phasing out residential gas water heaters and furnaces in Southern California has been rejected by air quality regulators. The decision has sparked debate about the region's commitment to clean energy and air quality improvements.
Trump Administration Reconsiders California Carbon Capture Project
The Trump administration has removed a direct-air carbon capture project proposed by a California startup from its federal funding 'kill list.' The project, which demonstrates significant potential for effective carbon removal and aligns with federal climate goals, is now being reconsidered for funding.
Utah Pushes for Transmission Permitting Streamlining
Utah elected officials are urging state and federal leaders to streamline transmission permitting, arguing that an expanded and upgraded grid will lead to lower energy costs and improved reliability.
New Mexico Approves Solar Installation
The city council of Belen, New Mexico, has approved a utility-scale solar installation on about 395 acres of private land. The project is expected to create around 250 construction jobs and generate approximately $16.9 million in tax revenue.
Senate Republicans Consider Extending Clean Energy Tax Credits
A handful of Senate Republicans have indicated they will consider extending the 60-day phaseout of clean energy tax credits proposed in the House's 'Big, Beautiful Bill.'
New Mexico Launches Energy Efficiency Loan Program
New Mexico has launched a $5.3 million loan program for energy efficiency, solar, and electric panel upgrades in commercial buildings. The program aims to encourage businesses to adopt clean energy solutions.
Arizona Opposes Clean Energy Funding Cuts
An Arizona vice-mayor has expressed concerns that partisan efforts to slash federal clean energy and climate funding could derail solutions that communities have been building for years.
Navajo Nation Opposes Coal Industry Revival
Navajo Nation citizens and advocates are opposing the Trump administration's push to revive the coal industry, citing environmental concerns and the potential impact on their community's health.
Colorado Faces Grid Modernization Challenges
Colorado energy experts have stated that jurisdictional issues have hindered utilities' ability to expand and modernize the power grid.
Oregon Prepares to Increase Gas Tax for Transportation Funding
Democratic Oregon lawmakers are preparing to introduce a transportation funding bill that would hike the state's gasoline tax by 15 cents and introduce additional fees.
Colorado Regulators Approve Wildfire Hazard Mitigation Plan
Colorado regulators have approved Xcel Energy's proposed wildfire hazard mitigation plan. The approval is a step towards enhancing safety and reducing the risk of wildfires in the state.
California and Southwest Power Pool Offer Regional Transmission Options
California's grid operator and Southwest Power Pool are offering Western utilities and balancing authorities competing regional transmission organizations and day-ahead energy markets.
Colorado State University and Pivot Energy Partner for Solar Installation
Colorado State University and Pivot Energy are partnering on a proposed offsite solar installation that would double the campus' renewable energy use.
North Carolina Food Bank Saves with Solar Array
A North Carolina food bank is on track to save $143,000 annually thanks to its rooftop solar array. However, the federal incentives that made the project possible are under threat from proposed budget bill cuts.
Springfield, Massachusetts, Residents Fight Wood-Burning Power Plant
Residents of Springfield, Massachusetts, are fighting back after rulings to stop a wood-burning power plant were reversed. The plant's operation raises concerns about air quality and health impacts in the community.
Alaska Governor Threatens Energy Leases Over Unmet Drilling Commitments
Alaska's governor has threatened to strip BlueCrest Energy of its energy leases due to unmet drilling commitments. The move highlights the challenges in balancing energy production and environmental concerns.
Idaho Lab Works on Earthquake-Resistant Transformers
Researchers at Idaho National Laboratory are working to develop earthquake-resistant electrical transformer bushings. The project could lead to more resilient power infrastructure in earthquake-prone regions.
New Mexico Opposes Oil and Gas Drilling Wastewater Recycling Proposal
New Mexico advocates are opposing a proposal to recycle oil and gas drilling wastewater to supplement drought-diminished water supplies. Concerns about the environmental impacts and potential health risks associated with the practice have led to opposition from various groups.
Western Colorado Airport Rushes Solar Installation
A western Colorado airport is rushing to begin construction on a parking lot solar installation in advance of Congress' expected cuts to federal clean energy tax credits.
Chicago-Area Startup Aims to Reduce Steel Industry Emissions
Chicago-area startup Sun Metalon aims to reduce steel industry emissions with an oven-sized box that cleans and melts down waste metal into recyclable pucks. The technology could have significant implications for the steel industry's environmental footprint.
