CLEANTECH: While the cleantech industry is still largely concentrated on the coasts, a new report shows Illinois is emerging as a national leader. (Midwest Energy News)
UTILITIES: Minnesota embarks on a unique initiative to reform utility business models. (Greentech Media)
***SPONSORED LINK: Midwest Energy Policy Conference 2014 — Get the early-bird discount now for the Midwest Energy Policy Conference on Sep. 30-Oct. 1 in St. Louis!***
EPA: A Missouri representative’s bill aims to change the cost-benefit calculation for EPA carbon regulations, and coal industry workers are bused to a carbon-rule hearing in Pittsburgh. (The Hill, Associated Press)
TRANSMISSION: Xcel Energy creates two new subsidiaries to pursue interstate transmission projects. (Minneapolis Star Tribune)
COAL: Wisconsin legislators want federal regulators to investigate the possibility of a coal shortage in the state due to rail congestion. (Wheeler News Service)
NUCLEAR: Exelon tells investors it expects to be compensated for its nuclear fleet’s contributions to meeting EPA carbon targets. (Chicago Tribune)
SOLAR: Industry reaction is mixed as an Arizona utility announces plans to install 20 MW of residential rooftop solar. (Greentech Media)
ALSO: A Nebraska farmer powers his irrigation system with solar panels, and has energy to spare; and work is expected to begin soon on a Kansas community solar project (background here). (Omaha World-Herald, Hays Post)
OIL: Ernest Moniz will tour North Dakota next week, a series of open houses are planned to discuss a proposed Iowa pipeline project, and a leaking storage tank spills oil and brine into a North Dakota field. (Forum News Service, Sioux City Journal, Bismarck Tribune)
EFFICIENCY: An Ohio order of nuns builds a staw-bale house to encourage energy efficiency and sustainable building. (Catholic News Service)
BIOFUELS: The EPA once again pushes back a compliance deadline for the renewable fuel standard. (The Hill)
FRAC SAND: Minnesota officials shut down a frac sand mine, saying it lacks the proper state permit to operate. (Minnesota Public Radio)
COMMENTARY: Why EPA carbon rules will be good for business. (Madison Capital Times)