Legislative initiative in Ohio focuses on oil and gas industry's role in carbon capture regulation
In the heart of America, the energy landscape is undergoing significant changes, with various states grappling with issues ranging from carbon storage to renewable energy development. Here's a roundup of the latest news from across the Midwest.
Ohio is witnessing a shift in energy policy, as oil and gas lobbyists have been pushing for a bill that could pave the way for underground carbon storage. This move comes as an Ohio nonprofit launches a new initiative to provide climate change training and resources to local governments in greater Cincinnati.
Meanwhile, in the automotive sector, General Motors is positioning electric vehicles as its "north star" as Q2 sales rebound from a Q1 slump. Elsewhere, Michigan automotive seat supplier Adient will invest $8 million to open a facility in Illinois and manufacture components for Rivian.
The Trump administration is seeking to extend deadlines for required reporting and monitoring of coal ash landfills and dumps, while Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker believes clean energy jobs and economic opportunity will help Illinois be a climate leader.
New York is scaling back a key energy efficiency program, and environmental groups are urging large tech companies to limit their electricity and water consumption as they pursue data centers across the Midwest and Great Plains.
In the realm of renewable energy, a Cleveland suburb is rushing to secure federal tax incentives for rooftop solar projects on two public buildings. Solar's exponential growth in Wisconsin mirrors similar trends globally as costs continue to drop, according to a University of Wisconsin professor.
However, not all news is positive. New Hampshire has raided its clean energy fund, potentially jeopardizing its solar program. Ohio's latest state budget includes a provision that allows state officials to remove the air nuisance rule, enabling citizens from suing polluting companies over harmful air emissions.
In the political arena, a bipartisan group of nine governors has asked for the power to nominate candidates to fill seats on grid operator PJM's board of managers. They also seek additional input as they grapple with rising power demand.
Lastly, the high capacity prices in PJM are likely to make recent electric bill spikes even worse for ComEd customers in northern Illinois. As demand grows and clean energy projects stall, the potential lack of affordable power supplies is a cause for concern.
This whirlwind tour of Midwest energy news underscores the complexity and diversity of issues facing the region. As the energy landscape evolves, it's crucial to stay informed and engaged in the conversation.
