OHIO: The debate over Ohio’s energy laws took another turn Tuesday, as Republican lawmakers introduced a substitute bill that threatens to destroy a compromise plan developed over the past few days. (Midwest Energy News)
MEANWHILE: Opponents say the new bill “will systematically dismantle Ohio’s clean energy law” and “is in many ways worse” than the original legislation; and a business group notes that Ohio’s existing laws have led to $1 billion in investment in the state. (Cleveland Plain Dealer, Columbus Dispatch)
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CLIMATE: The impacts of climate change are well underway in the United States, according to a new federal assessment, with the Midwest expected to see more weather extremes in the future. (New York Times, Associated Press)
FRACKING: Voters in Youngstown, Ohio reject an anti-fracking measure for the third time; backers of the proposal say they’ll try again. (Youngstown Vindicator)
ALSO: Scientists say disposal of fracking wastewater has increased the earthquake risk in Oklahoma. (New York Times)
COAL ASH: The Michigan House approves a bill that would reclassify coal ash, allowing it to be used for paving roads and other purposes. (MLive)
BIOFUELS: An appeals court upholds the EPA’s 2013 Renewable Fuel Standard levels. (The Hill)
SOLAR: Illinois researchers eliminate the need for lead in a new type of solar cell technology. (Science Magazine)
NUCLEAR: Regulators find Exelon gave them incorrect information on cleanup funds, but not intentionally. (Crain’s Chicago Business)
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KANSAS: After a clean energy rebirth following a devastating tornado, the town of Greenburg, Kansas still struggles to retain its population. (Associated Press)
COMMENTARY: Jon Huntsman says his fellow Republicans should face facts on climate change, Illinois legislators need to fix the state’s renewable energy standard, and why solar power is patriotic. (Crain’s Chicago Business, Madison Capital Times)