Swifter Methods for Reducing Carbon Emissions in Steel Production
Residents in Springfield, Massachusetts, are voicing their concerns after rulings to halt a wood-burning power plant were overturned (Canary). Meanwhile, in another part of the United States, local leaders in Green Bay, Wisconsin, are emphasizing the importance of plans to relocate hulking riverside coal piles, a deal that has eluded officials for decades (Wisconsin Public Radio).
In a positive development, Illinois' renewable energy targets and state-funded solar programs are helping the state expand its solar capacity. This expansion is particularly beneficial as federal incentives for clean energy are under threat (Canary). Advocates argue that the loss of these incentives could slow the momentum of clean manufacturing investments in red states, which have benefitted the most from federal clean energy tax credits so far (Stateline).
Iowa stands to lose jobs, manufacturing plants, and renewable energy project expansions, while utility customers face higher bills under a U.S. House-passed budget that effectively repeals the Inflation Reduction Act (Iowa Capital Dispatch). On the other hand, North Dakota landowners have asked state regulators to rescind an order for a $440 million, 95-mile transmission line, deemed necessary for grid reliability by state regulators.
In the realm of recycling, a Chicago-area startup has developed a technology for recycling waste products from steel and aluminum production. The details of this startup's name are not readily available, but the technology offers a faster and more direct way of decarbonizing the industry (Canary).
Xcel Energy is making strides in clean energy. The company is retiring coal plants and meeting the United States' carbon-free power targets. Additionally, Xcel Energy is preparing to meet an anticipated influx of demand from data centers (Canary). Ameren Missouri is also gearing up for a solar project near its nuclear plant.
In Michigan, advocates are considering challenging the Trump administration's order to keep a large coal plant operating, claiming no energy emergency exists or that the Department of Energy exceeded its authority (Planet Detroit). Similarly, a Republican Congress member from Nebraska is among 13 GOP lawmakers calling on the Senate to scale back clean energy cuts that they previously voted for in President Trump's 'big beautiful bill' (NBC News).
A recent MISO grid reliability report supports Indiana Governor Mike Braun's concerns about losing capacity from retiring coal plants as demand grows (WLFI). On a positive note, a North Carolina food bank is projected to save $143,000 annually thanks to its rooftop solar array, a testament to the potential benefits of clean energy for communities (Canary).
In summary, while there are challenges and setbacks for clean energy across the Midwest, there are also signs of progress and resilience. The fight for a cleaner, more sustainable future continues.
Read also:
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- More than half of British homes adhere to insulation standards established during the 1970s.
- Baden-Württemberg primarily relies on burning fossil fuels for heating purposes.
