THE DEBATE: Once again, in last night’s presidential debate, climate change was a no-show and the candidates’ energy conversation was largely confined to arguing over who is a bigger friend to fossil fuels. (The Hill)

QUOTH THE MODERATOR: “I had that question for all of you climate change people … we just, you know, again, we knew that the economy was still the main thing.” (Climate Progress)

FACT CHECKS: Juliet Eilperin of the Washington Post clears up questionable statements on coal, Keystone XL and drilling on federal lands.

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BIOENERGY: As a new report touts Wisconsin’s potential as a bioenergy leader, the state’s agricultural industry so far is slow to take advantage of a revamped incentive program that prioritizes the technology over wind and solar power. (Midwest Energy News)

ELECTRIC CARS: Battery maker A123 files for bankruptcy, Wisconsin-based Johnson Controls will take over the company’s automotive sector and continue operating its Michigan factories. (Associated Press, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)

ALSO: A Minnesota electric co-op will offer EV drivers lower rates at night to encourage charging during off-peak hours. (Minneapolis Star Tribune)

CLIMATE: A new Pew Research Center survey shows growing acknowledgement of global warming, including among conservatives. (ClimateWire)

COAL: A North Dakota power plant is adding chemicals to coal in an effort to find a lower-cost way to cut emissions. (Bismarck Tribune)

WIND: The new owner of Minnesota’s Goodhue wind farm pledges more community involvement in the project, which has deeply divided neighbors in the area. (Rochester Post-Bulletin)

NATURAL GAS: A new system that uses waste natural gas to power oil rigs is catching on in North Dakota, and “Mad Money” host Jim Cramer will broadcast live from Ohio tomorrow to hype the Utica Shale. (Fargo Forum, Columbus Business First)

SOLAR: Minnesota works to revamp its 30-year-old incentives for distributed generation, and an Ohio municipal building gets 15 percent of its power from rooftop solar panels. (Finance & Commerce, Columbus Dispatch)

COMMENTARY: How energy became a cornerstone of the presidential campaign, and can Big Wind awaken from its recurring tax credit nightmare? (National Journal, Climate Desk)