Steep challenges confronting significant green steel production facility
In the heart of the United States, clean energy developments and challenges are shaping the future of several Midwestern states.
South Dakota and Otter Tail Power Co.
South Dakota regulators have announced a six-month study on Otter Tail Power Co.'s proposed 12.5% electric rate increase. The decision comes as residents and businesses grapple with the potential impact on their electricity bills.
Indiana and Solar Energy
Indiana's solar sector faces an uncertain future as federal incentive cuts could make home solar installations 30% more expensive, potentially putting 4,000 jobs at risk. A new ad campaign is urging lawmakers to preserve these incentives, expanding to six states, including Indiana.
Ohio and Electric Vehicles
In a positive development, a long-vacant gas station in Athens, Ohio, is set to be transformed into an electric vehicle charging station, complete with four charging ports.
Indiana and Duke Energy
Duke Energy is considering a unique approach for an Indiana coal plant, studying the feasibility of letting a third party buy and operate units, while also exploring the addition of gas capacity.
Iowa and Carbon Pipelines
A two-thirds majority of Iowa House lawmakers have voted to hold a special session to override Gov. Kim Reynolds' veto of a bill that would make it harder to use eminent domain for carbon pipelines.
Ohio's Green Steel Plant
The Cleveland-Cliffs' green steel plant project in Ohio, relying on hydrogen-ready technology, has been affected by the Trump administration's priorities and is currently using fossil fuels.
Michigan and Line 5
A federal court has denied Michigan's latest attempt to dismiss Enbridge's lawsuit against Gov. Gretchen Whitmer over Line 5 operations in the Straits of Mackinac. Meanwhile, three Michigan Republican Congress members have introduced a bill to prevent future administrations from shutting down Line 5.
Hydrogen Industry Slowdown
The U.S. hydrogen industry, including the Cleveland steel plant project, has been experiencing a slowdown due to canceled or scaled-back projects.
Minnesota and Data Centers
Minnesota environmental groups have expressed concerns about a new law regulating water use and electricity costs of data centers, stating that it does not address their concerns sufficiently.
Ohio's HB 6 Scandal
In a controversial turn of events, FirstEnergy's former in-house lobbyist testified in a regulatory hearing over the HB 6 bribery scandal, detailing meetings with a consultant who later became the state's top regulator.
These developments underscore the complex and evolving landscape of clean energy in the Midwest, a region that is both embracing new technologies and facing challenges in its transition towards a more sustainable future.
