OHIO: A nonprofit funded by American Electric Power gave $900,000 over three years to two “dark money” groups at the center of the state’s power plant subsidy law scandal. (Dayton Daily News)

ALSO: As Ohio lawmakers consider repealing HB 6, decoupling provisions that ensure income guarantees for utilities will get closer scrutiny. (Cleveland.com)

OVERSIGHT: Two Wisconsin regulators appeal a federal court decision that would subject them to questioning over potential conflicts of interest by opponents of a controversial transmission project. (Wisconsin State Journal)

OIL & GAS: Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa proposes legislation to increase royalties companies pay on oil and gas production on federal lands by 50%, hoping to end what he calls an “unnecessary subsidy.” (Cedar Rapids Gazette)

WIND: More than 500,000 freight tons of wind turbine components were shipped this year through the port in Duluth, Minnesota, marking the second straight record year for wind shipments. (Duluth News Tribune)

PIPELINES:
• The recognition of treaty rights could change the environmental landscape in several states, including Michigan, where the state has argued that the Line 5 pipeline could disrupt tribes’ rights dating back to 1836. (Daily Yonder)
• Michigan officials extend the review period for Enbridge’s application to build a tunnel for Line 5, citing extensive comments submitted to the state. (MLive)

UTILITIES: Four former ComEd officials plead not guilty to federal bribery charges as top Illinois Republican lawmakers call on House Speaker Michael Madigan to resign. (Register-Mail)

POLICY: The Indiana Chamber of Commerce releases a study suggesting the state shouldn’t favor particular power generation sources over others and should explore financing to eliminate debt from coal plants that retire early. (Indiana Public Media)

CLIMATE: Former Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm is reportedly among three people being considered as President-elect Joe Biden’s domestic climate adviser. (E&E News, subscription)

GRID: Renewable energy proponents criticize a recent declaration by grid operator MISO that its planning studies involving interconnection and transmission are fair. (RTO Insider, subscription)

COMMENTARY:
• An energy economist who’s pushed for clean energy transitions in New York City and Midwestern cities is recognized as a champion for building efficiency. (Natural Resources Defense Council)
• A tribal chairman in Michigan says the state’s attempt to shut down Line 5 in the Straits of Mackinac “will ensure the safety of our communities and the ability to fish, work and recreate on these waters for generations to come.” (Lansing State Journal)