Coal-to-Gas Plant Wins Reprieve as Wind Power Surges and Solar Scores Victory
In a mix of energy and environmental news, a coal-to-gas plant in Indiana wins a legislative reprieve, while wind power installations surge. Meanwhile, officials share lessons from a successful efficiency initiative, and a solar installer gains a legal victory in Iowa. Elsewhere, EPA nominee Gina McCarthy faces procedural questions, and a new study challenges climate change's role in last year's drought.
In Indiana, a proposed coal-to-gas plant has been granted a legislative reprieve, avoiding a tougher review. This comes as the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) reports a record surge in wind power installations in 2013. In other news, officials from Duluth schools have shared lessons from their $300 million efficiency initiative, highlighting successful strategies for reducing energy costs and improving sustainability.
In Iowa, a court has rejected a utility's argument, allowing a Dubuque solar installer to sell electricity from installed solar panels. This ruling opens up new opportunities for renewable energy providers in the state. Meanwhile, the confirmation hearing for EPA nominee Gina McCarthy focused more on procedural issues than environmental ones, with critics noting the EPA's lack of press access.
Exxon has been criticized for its 'pay first, ask questions later' strategy in managing neighbor relations following an Arkansas oil spill. The company has also provided inconsistent details about when it knew of the spill. In contrast, major companies have signed a declaration calling for climate action, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability.
Xcel Energy plans to sell renewable energy credits from a turkey-manure-fueled power plant in Minnesota to utilities in North Carolina. This innovative approach to renewable energy trading could pave the way for similar initiatives in the future. Lastly, an EPA official has confirmed that work on carbon emission rules for existing power plants is planned for 2014, indicating a continued focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
These developments highlight a range of responses to energy and environmental news, from legislative reprieves to innovative renewable energy projects. As major companies commit to climate action and regulators plan new rules, the energy landscape continues to evolve.
