Energy Policy / Public News Service

Solar panels are highly reliable throughout their lifetime, within the 80% to 90% range, according to federal data. (Adobe Stock)

Thursday, October 10, 2024

Report: Solar resources reliable during extreme weather events

As parts of the country brace for and continue to recover from hurricanes, flooding and a new normal, research shows wind and solar resources tend to …

Buildings are 32% of New York's annual greenhouse gas emissions, making them the state's largest emitter. (Adobe Stock)

Thursday, October 10, 2024

NYS moves ahead with thermal energy network pilot programs

New York State authorized utilities to develop thermal energy network pilot programs to further its decarbonization goals. Thermal energy networks …

Indiana law requires electricity utilities to issue long-term plans for power plants every three years. (Adobe stock)

Wednesday, October 9, 2024

IN environmentalists push back on Duke’s coal extension

By Dan Gearino for Inside Climate News.Broadcast version by Joe Ulery for Indiana News Service reporting for the Solutions Journalism Network-Public N…

An initiative on November's ballot in Washington state could slow the transition to electric equipment like heat pumps. (nikomsolftwaer/Adobe Stock)

Wednesday, October 9, 2024

Diverse coalition opposes WA ballot measure rolling back natural gas transition

A diverse coalition of groups is opposing an initiative in Washington that could upend the state's push to make buildings greener and more efficient…

Federal officials said by embracing energy-efficient upgrades, such as a smart thermostat, a single eligible household can enjoy savings of up to $14,000. (Adobe Stock)

Wednesday, October 9, 2024

With the help of navigators, MN Latinos take the clean energy plunge

Summerlike temperatures are still around but winter is lurking and Minnesotans will soon have to crank up their thermostats. Now, there is outreach …

The American Clean Power Second Quarter 2024 Market Report ranked Ohio fourth nationally and first in the Midwest for clean power installations and first in the Midwest for utility-scale solar capacity this year. (AnnaStills/Adobe Stock)

Tuesday, October 8, 2024

Ohio’s clean-energy surge drives jobs, growth

As Ohio continues to embrace clean energy solutions, the debate over its economic and environmental impact remains a focal point for residents…

Construction of the Prattsburgh Wind Farm will create $4.3 million of local economic benefits through housing, fuel and living expenses for five towns across Steuben County, New York. (Adobe Stock)

Tuesday, October 8, 2024

It's full speed ahead for some NY wind farms

Though New York is slated to miss its climate goals, several county projects are bolstering renewable energy development. Several large wind farm …

New federal legislation would allow land managers to prioritize the needs of wildlife during critical times, including calving season. (Adobe Stock)

Tuesday, October 8, 2024

GORP Act would conserve 730,000+ acres of public lands in Colorado

New legislation making its way through the U.S. Senate would conserve more than 730,000 acres of federal public lands in and around Colorado's …

According to projections from the South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation, the state's economy is expected to have 39,500 more jobs in 2032 than it did in 2022, an increase of 7.7%. (Adobe Stock)<br />

Tuesday, October 8, 2024

SD data show wind sector to lead job growth in coming decade

Projections of South Dakota's job growth could lead to more degrees from technical colleges, which are seeing increased enrollment. Occupational …

The nonprofit Greater Indiana predicts sales of electric vehicles will equal almost 30% of all new car sales in the state in the year 2030. (Adobe Stock)

Monday, October 7, 2024

More prospective tax breaks for EV charging infrastructure

Electric vehicles are considered one solution for a cleaner environment and Indiana has just over 26,000 EVs already on the road. Energy officials …

According to a key industry group, North Dakota ranks last in the nation for solar-energy capacity. (Adobe Stock)

Monday, October 7, 2024

When ND is ready for more solar, study says it won't hurt property values

North Dakota lags behind other states in advancing large-scale solar projects. If additional development does gain steam as it has elsewhere in the …

$A fracking waste impoundment pond site. Research shows radioactive waste from fracking can spread to groundwater. (FracTracker/Flicker)$

Monday, October 7, 2024

WV lawmakers consider new rules on radioactive waste

West Virginia lawmakers are pushing legislation forward to pave the way for state management of the transport, storage and disposal of potentially …

To date, the Bureau of Land Management has permitted clean-energy projects on public lands adding 29 gigawatts of electricity, or enough to power more than 12 million homes, according to the agency. (Adobe Stock)

BLM’s proposed Western Solar Plan leaves room for wildlife

A new federal proposal details which public lands across the West would be open to solar development. Wildlife advocates are glad to see that some - …

Around 74% of Arizona's electric vehicles are Teslas, according to Recurrent. (Adobe Stock)

It's National Drive Electric Week, AZ's EV sector grows

It is National Drive Electric Week and the Arizona Public Interest Research Group Education Fund wants to raise awareness about the benefits electric …

According to the International Energy Agency, methane emissions from fossil fuels must drop by 75% by 2030 to meet climate goals set in Paris. (Adobe Stock)

High-tech tools can bust careless oil and gas drillers

By Jennifer Oldham for Sierra.Broadcast version by Eric Galatas for Colorado News Connection reporting for the Solutions Journalism Network-Public New…

Colorado State University researchers found snowpack in areas burned by the Cameron Peak Fire disappeared 7 to 11 days earlier than unburned areas. (Adobe Stock)

Study: Wildfire burn areas see faster snowpack melts, disrupt water resources

As a warming climate brings bigger and more frequent wildfires, burn scars left behind at high mountain altitudes are seeing snowpack melt much …

Wildfire seasons are projected to get longer in coming years in Colorado and across the Mountain West. (Adobe Stock)

Spikes in emergency visits during CO bad air days cost $1.14 billion in 2019

Colorado lawmakers are digging into the health and economic impacts of the state's poor air quality from wildfire smoke and ozone pollution created by…

The federal Rural Energy for America Program provides loan guarantees and grants to farmers and rural small businesses for renewable energy systems and energy efficiency improvements. (Adobe Stock)

Report: USDA program helped hundreds of KY businesses become energy efficient

In Kentucky, 462 businesses, farms and schools have received $77 million in federal funding to boost energy efficiency through the U.S. Department of …

The website FundHubWA shows Washingtonians clean energy opportunities, such as electric vehicle rebates. (IanDewarPhotography/Adobe Stock)

With unprecedented climate funding available, WA launches resource hub

Washington state has launched a new website that lets people and organizations know about ways they can fund going green. With resources for clean …

For decades, the fossil fuel industry has been able to slow or prevent policies to reduce climate pollution by laundering false claims and junk science through allied think tanks and media outlets. (Adobe Stock)

Report names donors bankrolling climate change disinformation

As Coloradans deal with record-breaking heat, wildfires, and prolonged drought - linked to a changing climate - a new report shows how American …

Experts said there is growing debate over whether waste incineration plants can be considered a form of renewable energy. Environmental advocates argued they are often located near communities suffering from environmental injustice. (Adobe Stock)

MN's carbon-free law takes a more complex pathway

Environmental groups in Minnesota are considering their next steps on the heels of a regulatory decision they said weakens the state's landmark carbon…

State utility regulators last week rejected NV Energy's request to raise its basic service charge for Northern Nevada customers by 175%. (Adobe Stock)

NV groups share concerns about utilities' health, environmental impacts

The Public Utilities Commission of Nevada this week heard local leaders' concerns during consumer sessions, where people protested increasing utility …

IEDC reports Indiana ranked third in nation and first in Midwest for utility-scale solar in development in Q2 2024. (Adobe stock)

IN emerges as national leader in clean energy innovation

Indiana is positioning itself as a national leader in clean energy, driving economic growth through innovative projects and significant investments…

According to the report, data centers and large manufacturing facilities may run around the clock and require that 100 megawatts of power be available every hour of the day. (Eimantas Buzas/Adobe Stock)

Growing industries threaten Georgia’s climate goals amid rising energy demand

A new report warned climate goals in Georgia and nationwide are threatened by the rapid growth of industries like data centers and electric vehicles…

Some 78% of Americans are concerned about rising utility bills, according to a 2024 survey from CNET. (Adobe Stock)<br />

WV regulators dismiss AEP rate hike proposal

A proposed rate hike by American Electric Power that would have affected customers in two dozen West Virginia counties is off the table for now…

The Environmental Protection Agency said aviation in the United States accounts for nearly 10% of greenhouse-gas emissions from the transportation sector. (Adobe Stock)

Cruising at 30,000 feet with cleaner jet fuel: MN part of sustainability efforts

Some Minnesotans might already be booking flights for the upcoming holiday season. In the future, they could end up flying on a jet relying on …

Reports show states across New England have to upgrade distribution systems to accommodate a peak load in 2050, which will be double what New England historically experienced. (Adobe Stock)

CT governor pauses involvement in multistate offshore wind deal

Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont is pausing the state's involvement in a multistate offshore wind development deal. Lamont cites the projects' potential …

Analysts project the public health and climate benefits of new EPA clean air rules will exceed compliance costs by trillions of dollars through 2050. (Adobe Stock)

Report: EPA clean air benefits include 200,000 lives saved

New air pollution standards issued by the Environmental Protection Agency over the past four years should bring $250 billion in economic benefits each…

Maine's clean energy sector grew more than three times faster than the state's overall economy between 2016 and 2022 and now employs more than 15,000 people, according to the Governor's Energy Office. (Adobe Stock) <br />

Federal funds, clean energy projects boost ME union workforce

Union workers in Maine say federal funds are helping fuel the state's clean energy transition and offering incentives for young people to stick around…

If Duke Energy has its way, some Hoosiers may soon face higher electric bills. (Adobe Stock)

Duke Energy's proposed rate hike, profits under fire

Duke Energy is facing criticism over its proposed rate hikes of up to 16%, while delaying the retirement of its coal-fired power plants in Indiana…

The Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund is anticipated to save over $350 million annually on electric bills for 900,000 low-income households nationwide and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 30 million metric tons over five years. (Felix Mizioznikov/Adobe Stock)

Solar power drives change in Ohio’s disadvantaged areas

Ohio's most vulnerable communities are set to benefit from more than $312 million in federal funding aimed at reducing energy costs and promoting envi…

NV Energy's proposal sought to increase its rate of return to investors from 9.5% to 10.4%. The Public Utilities Commission approved a 9.65% return, according to the Nevada Conservation League. (Adobe Stock)

Utility regulators deny NV Energy rate change for northern NV customers

Nevada leaders and community groups are pleased with this week's decision by state utility regulators to reject NV Energy's request to raise its basic…

AI queries require about 10 times the electricity of traditional internet searches and the generation of original music, photos and videos requires much more, according to the Electric Power Research Institute. (Adobe Stock)

Iowa researchers shine light on the future of energy use

Researchers at Iowa State University are taking aim at the huge amount of energy used by data centers, now and in the future. They have developed a …

A new report finds the Climate Commitment Act will lead to job gains in construction in Washington state. (anatoliy_gleb/Adobe Stock)

Report: WA's cap-and-invest program could add 45,000 jobs, $9 billion

Washington's clean energy law could bring thousands of jobs and billions of dollars to the state, according to a new report. Greenline Insights' …

A new report shows companies like ExxonMobil, the Hess Foundation and Shell Oil have been large donors to a slew of programs at Columbia University. Some of this funding has buoyed climate and environmental research. (Adobe Stock)

Columbia U. climate research 'biased' by fossil fuel funding

A new report contends fossil fuel funding has biased Columbia University's climate research. The report, by two Columbia students, shows the …

Rural AZ inn saves on energy bills, helps environment

This article was produced by Local First Arizona.Broadcast version by Alex Gonzalez for Arizona News Connection reporting for the Local First Arizona-…

According to Energy.gov, over 50% of the electric power generation workforce in Illinois was in wind, solar, and hydroelectric. (Adobe Stock)

IL energy jobs growth is strong, lacks female workers

Rising demands for clean energy efficiency are producing a wealth of work opportunities in Illinois. These in-demand jobs are also promoting a …

The California Department of Conservation is holding a public meeting online on Sept. 24, to update the public on its progress in plugging abandoned oil wells. (Alizada Studios/Adobe Stock)<br />

Environmental advocates call on Newsom to sign 'make polluters pay' bills

Groups concerned about pollution and climate change are asking Gov. Gavin Newsom to sign a trio of bills dubbed the "make polluters pay" package…

Inflation Reduction Act funding is helping leading electric cooperatives, which serve one in five rural Americans, to accelerate the adoption of affordable and reliable clean energy, lowering costs for their members. (Adobe Stock)

Tri-State to lower customer energy costs by $400 million over 20 years

Colorado's second-largest electricity provider, the Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association, projects new federal clean energy funding will …

The electric vehicle stations will have both fast and slow charging ports. (Mike Mareen/Adobe Stock)

EV charging stations coming to NW Arkansas

The Ozark Regional Transit Authority will use a $14.9 million federal grant to build electric vehicle charging stations around northwest Arkansas…

In the past decade, the U.S. Energy Department said 2,555 North Dakota homes, occupied by people with limited incomes, have been weatherized. The free upgrades include furnace repairs, insulation and sealing drafty windows. (Adobe Stock)

An under-the-radar profession could use a helping hand

September is Workforce Development Month and North Dakota offices managing energy assistance programs hope people in need of a fresh career start will…

School districts across the nation spend $8 billion per year on energy costs. (naraichal/Adobe Stock)

As climate change ramps up, energy efficiency helps OR schools save money

Oregon students are back in the classroom, but their classrooms might not be as energy efficient or climate resilient as they should be. As the …

Data from the Electric School Bus Initiative finds Virginia is one of the top states to own and purchase clean school buses. (Adobe Stock)

VA sees more school districts shift to clean buses

Virginia kids are heading back to school in a more environmentally friendly way. School districts and counties statewide are making the switch to …

In August, Steelton-Highspire became the first school district in Pennsylvania to operate a fully electric fleet, and the first in the country to have its entire bus fleet supported by a solar array. (Steelton-Highspire School District)

Federal funding drives PA's increase in electric school buses

Many Pennsylvania students now ride electric buses to school. Some $900 million from the Environmental Protection Agency's Clean School Bus Program …

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources must report annual greenhouse gas inventories to the legislature and governor each year. (Adobe Stock)

Iowa releases 'Condition of the State' report on clean energy goals

Alternative energy advocates say Iowa is making significant progress on reaching its green power goals by 2035. The state has become a national …

Climate change harms Indigenous people's health. While it causes some health conditions, it is also worsening chronic illnesses to which they are prone. (Adobe Stock)

EPA awards climate grant to CT tribal nation

The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation has been awarded a grant to cut climate pollution. It is part of the Environmental Protection Agency's Climate …

According to the site Tech-stack, AI algorithms can forecast energy needs, helps improve the reliability of solar energy supply and balance the grid load. (Adobe Stock)

IL residents can benefit from merging of solar and AI

By Kari Lydersen for Energy News Network.Broadcast version by Terri Dee for Illinois News Connection reporting for the Solutions Journalism Network-Pu…

In 2022, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ranked Chicago eighth on an annual ENERGY STAR Top Cities list. On average, ENERGY STAR buildings use 35% less energy and cut carbon dioxide emissions by 35% compared to typical buildings. (Adobe Stock)

Innovative construction projects address short-term, long-term IL energy needs

By Audrey Henderson for Energy News Network.Broadcast version by Terri Dee for Illinois News Connection reporting for the Solutions Journalism Network…

Audio Activation
	"Siri, play the Public News Service (podcast)"
	"Hey Google, play the Public News Service podcast"
	"Alexa, play Public News Service podcast" or "Alexa, what's my news flash?" once you set it up in the Alexa app
	Embed this Newscast

Audio Activation
	"Siri, play the 2024 Talks podcast"
	"Hey Google, play the 2024 Talks podcast"
	"Alexa, play 2000 24 Talks podcast" or "Alexa, what's my news flash?" once you set it up in the Alexa app
	Embed this Newscast

Audio Activation
	"Siri, play the Yonder Report podcast"
	"Hey Google, play the Yonder Report podcast"
	"Alexa, play the Yonder Report podcast" or "Alexa, what's my news flash?" once you set it up in the Alexa app
	Embed this Newscast

PNS Daily Newscast - October 10, 2024

2024Talks - October 10, 2024

The Yonder Report - October 10, 2024

Energy Policy

Report: Solar resources reliable during extreme weather events

NYS moves ahead with thermal energy network pilot programs

IN environmentalists push back on Duke’s coal extension

Diverse coalition opposes WA ballot measure rolling back natural gas transition

With the help of navigators, MN Latinos take the clean energy plunge

Ohio’s clean-energy surge drives jobs, growth

It's full speed ahead for some NY wind farms

GORP Act would conserve 730,000+ acres of public lands in Colorado

SD data show wind sector to lead job growth in coming decade

More prospective tax breaks for EV charging infrastructure

When ND is ready for more solar, study says it won't hurt property values

WV lawmakers consider new rules on radioactive waste

BLM’s proposed Western Solar Plan leaves room for wildlife

It's National Drive Electric Week, AZ's EV sector grows

High-tech tools can bust careless oil and gas drillers

Study: Wildfire burn areas see faster snowpack melts, disrupt water resources

Spikes in emergency visits during CO bad air days cost $1.14 billion in 2019

Report: USDA program helped hundreds of KY businesses become energy efficient

With unprecedented climate funding available, WA launches resource hub

Report names donors bankrolling climate change disinformation

MN's carbon-free law takes a more complex pathway

NV groups share concerns about utilities' health, environmental impacts

IN emerges as national leader in clean energy innovation

Growing industries threaten Georgia’s climate goals amid rising energy demand

WV regulators dismiss AEP rate hike proposal

Cruising at 30,000 feet with cleaner jet fuel: MN part of sustainability efforts

CT governor pauses involvement in multistate offshore wind deal

Report: EPA clean air benefits include 200,000 lives saved

Federal funds, clean energy projects boost ME union workforce

Duke Energy's proposed rate hike, profits under fire

Solar power drives change in Ohio’s disadvantaged areas

Utility regulators deny NV Energy rate change for northern NV customers

Iowa researchers shine light on the future of energy use

Report: WA's cap-and-invest program could add 45,000 jobs, $9 billion

Columbia U. climate research 'biased' by fossil fuel funding

Rural AZ inn saves on energy bills, helps environment

IL energy jobs growth is strong, lacks female workers

Environmental advocates call on Newsom to sign 'make polluters pay' bills

Tri-State to lower customer energy costs by $400 million over 20 years

EV charging stations coming to NW Arkansas

An under-the-radar profession could use a helping hand

As climate change ramps up, energy efficiency helps OR schools save money

VA sees more school districts shift to clean buses

Federal funding drives PA's increase in electric school buses

Iowa releases 'Condition of the State' report on clean energy goals

EPA awards climate grant to CT tribal nation

IL residents can benefit from merging of solar and AI

Innovative construction projects address short-term, long-term IL energy needs