EPA: A study finds some of the states most opposed to EPA carbon rules would see the greatest economic gain from them, Minnesota supporters rally in favor of the regulations, and the agency prepares for a series of public hearings on the rules. (New York Times, Minnesota Public Radio, The Hill)
UTILITIES: A new rate structure will reward Chicago utility customers who use less energy. (Chicago Tribune)
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ETHANOL: New technology is helping ethanol producers squeeze more fuel out of the same amount of corn. (Midwest Energy News)
OIL AND GAS:
• A proposed federal rule would give shippers two years to upgrade tank cars used to haul crude oil. (Greenwire)
• Why the oil industry is trying to influence North Dakota’s agriculture commission race. (Reuters)
• Enbridge proposes a new crude oil terminal in Illinois to relieve pipeline congestion. (Reuters)
• A judge rejects an effort to stop drilling in Michigan. (MLive)
• Ohio’s fracking “sweet spot” remains elusive. (Columbus Business First)
SOLAR: An Indiana utility plans 16 MW of new solar capacity. (SmartMeters)
WIND: In a case involving wind purchase agreements, South Dakota regulators reject a Wisconsin company’s effort to challenge Basin Electric’s status as a cooperative. (Rapid City Journal)
COAL: Advocates push for coal plant closures in Indiana and Illinois. (Associated Press, Peoria Journal Star)
ELECTRIC CARS: Why electric vehicles present a growth opportunity for utilities; a report finds utilities in 14 states are already adopting policies to encourage EVs. (Greentech Media, SolarEnergy.net)
COMMENTARY: How Iowa’s third-party solar ruling will encourage investment. (Des Moines Register)