Solar Projects Safe, Ohio's Renewable Future Uncertain
A geology professor has reassured central Wisconsin residents that two upcoming solar projects pose no threat to public health. Meanwhile, the future of wind and solar energy in Ohio hangs in the balance due to years of state policy favouring fossil fuels.
In Wisconsin, Professor Jane Thompson clarified that the proposed solar projects will not emit harmful radiation or chemicals, dispelling concerns about potential health impacts. She noted that solar panels generate electricity through sunlight, not nuclear reactions.
In Ohio, the long-term prospects for wind and solar energy remain uncertain. Years of state policy favouring fossil fuels have created an unfavourable environment for renewable energy projects. Developers face challenges in securing permits and financing, making it difficult to compete with established fossil fuel industries.
In northern Ohio, a developer is seeking a rehearing for a proposed wind farm. The project's application was denied by state regulators, who cited speculative concerns about potential impacts. The developer argues that these concerns are unfounded and that the project should be reconsidered.
In Michigan, activists are calling for a federal bailout of utility customers struggling to pay bills during the pandemic. They argue that the economic hardship caused by the pandemic should not result in customers being left without essential services.
In Minnesota, a long-duration energy storage company is demonstrating its iron-air battery model. The project aims to prove the viability of this technology for storing renewable energy and supporting the grid.
Despite an ongoing political bribery scandal, fossil fuel and utility companies continue to contribute to Ohio lawmakers. This has raised concerns about the influence of these industries on state policy.
In Kansas City, a pilot project is underway to install electric vehicle chargers on light poles. This initiative aims to make charging more accessible to residents who do not have access to private garages.
Indigenous TikTokers have reported being banned from the app after posting videos of police violence against Line 3 protesters. They allege that their accounts were suspended for content that did not violate the platform's community guidelines.
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and President Joe Biden have been criticized for failing to protect public health by allowing the Line 3 pipeline project to proceed. Environmental activists argue that the project poses significant risks to local communities and the environment.
In Illinois, Exelon plans to retire uneconomic reactors at two nuclear plants this fall unless it receives a bailout. The company argues that market conditions have made it difficult to operate the plants profitably.
FirstEnergy, the company at the centre of Ohio's political bribery scandal, has made contributions to financers of parliamentarians in the state. This has raised questions about the influence of the company on state policy and the ongoing investigation into the Ohio HB6 law.
While reassurances have been given regarding the safety of solar projects in Wisconsin, the future of renewable energy in Ohio remains uncertain. Meanwhile, utility customers in Michigan seek federal aid, and energy storage projects in Minnesota strive to prove their worth. The influence of fossil fuel and utility companies on Ohio lawmakers continues to be a concern, as does the treatment of Indigenous voices on social media platforms. The Line 3 pipeline project in Minnesota and the potential retirement of Illinois nuclear plants highlight the complex challenges facing energy policy in the United States.
