CLIMATE: The EPA is expected to issue its climate change plan today, utilities say they’re already well prepared for possible carbon rules on existing power plants, and a new poll finds the majority of Americans would prefer climate change be addressed through regulations rather than taxes. (The Hill, ClimateWire)
ALSO: The National Journal, in its cover story this month, explores how the U.S. is already being impacted by climate change.
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WIND: The small-wind industry seeks to rebound amid policy obstacles and a reputation tarnished by “bozos and shysters,” and Exelon’s CEO says continued growth of wind power may force it to shut down nuclear plants. (Midwest Energy News, Chicago Tribune)
SOLAR: Developers of a major Ohio solar project discuss their plans to proceed despite a setback from state regulators, and the University of Akron plans to install more than an acre of solar panels on its field house and recreation center. (Columbus Dispatch, Akron Beacon Journal)
FRACKING: Ohio permanently revokes the operating permits of two companies tied to the illegal dumping of wastewater near Youngstown. (Akron Beacon Journal)
FRAC SAND: Two state agencies order a Minnesota county to conduct a study of the environmental and health impacts of frac sand mining. (Minneapolis Star Tribune)
TRANSMISSION: Federal regulators dismiss a complaint by American Transmission Company over ownership of a portion of the CapX2020 line, and industry officials meet with regulators to discuss the challenges facing the grid. (Midwest Energy News, SNL)
COAL: Indiana lawmakers delay a hearing on a bill that could determine the outcome of a proposed coal-to-gas plant, and Illinois coal companies see a future in gasification and carbon sequestration technologies. (Indianapolis Star, Carbondale Southern)
OIL: A North Dakota lawmaker introduces a bill that would eliminate a tax waiver for flaring natural gas, a new diesel refinery in North Dakota is expected to be up and running by next year, and TransCanada’s CEO says “the rhetoric has reached a shrill level” on the Keystone XL pipeline. (Associated Press, Fargo Forum, Washington Post)
EFFICIENCY: How much fuel will the Postal Service save by ending Saturday delivery? (Christian Science Monitor)
COMMENTARY: Fox News says Germany has more solar power than the U.S. because “they’ve got a lot more sun than we do,” and why our overengineered electricity grid makes us vulnerable to blackouts. (Slate, Grist)