WIND: The Army Corps of Engineers announces $7 billion in contracts to build wind turbines at military facilities throughout the country, and local officials approve a major wind farm in southwest North Dakota. (CleanTechnica, Bismarck Tribune)

OIL: Is Bakken crude more dangerous to transport? That’s the focus of federal regulators following a Canadian rail disaster, but some experts are skeptical. (EnergyWire)

ALSO: The Great Lakes Commission launches a one-year study of crude oil shipping throughout the region. (Associated Press)

CLIMATE: Industry groups send a letter to the EPA seeking more input on carbon regulations. (The Hill)

SOLAR: Minnesota’s first community solar installation held its grand opening yesterday. (Minnesota Public Radio)

FRACKING: An environmental group in Ohio proposes tougher drilling rules, and an Ohio town may rescind its fracking ban as similar ordinances generate controversy in towns far from the drilling boom. (Canton Repository, Youngstown Vindicator, Toledo Blade)

MINNESOTA: Minnesota Public Radio explores locally produced energy in the state, including the impact of new solar policies, small-town solar projects, and biomass heating on the North Shore.

ELECTRIC CARS: As Tesla increases production, it worries about the available supply of batteries. (New York Times)

COMMENTARY: Why “cost-effective” technology may still require a mandate. (Greentech Media)