SOLAR: An annual survey finds Midwest states are adding solar jobs at a rate more than double the national average, with Minnesota “on the cusp of a potential solar boom.” (Midwest Energy News)
PETCOKE: A company abruptly drops a plan to resume storing petcoke along the Detroit River, and Chicago’s mayor will propose an ordinance prohibiting new petcoke facilities in the city. (CBC, Chicago Sun-Times)
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NATURAL GAS: In response to high demand for natural gas, federal regulators agree to lift the PJM Interconnection’s $1,000/MWh cap on electricity through March. (Platts)
OIL: North Dakota officials say September’s pipeline spill near Tioga will take another two years to clean up, and Minnesota fire crews are “ill-prepared” for oil train disasters. (Bismarck Tribune, Minneapolis Star Tribune)
ALSO: A natural gas pipeline explodes near Tioga, no injuries are reported. (Bismarck Tribune)
COAL: More than 100,000 gallons of coal slurry have spilled into a creek in West Virginia. (CNN)
WIND: The Interior Department releases an interactive map showing the locations of 47,000 U.S. wind turbines, and school officials in Ann Arbor, Michigan rejects a city plan to install a wind turbine near a high school. (Renewable Energy News, MLive)
FRACKING: The EPA moves to regulate the use of diesel fuel in fracking fluid. (The Hill)
KEYSTONE XL: Environmentalists question the pipeline vs. rail frame, and TransCanada says it may change the pipeline route to avoid permit delays. (Greenwire)
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POLLUTION: Target is fined $27,500 for emissions from diesel generators at two Minnesota facilities. (Minneapolis Star Tribune)
COMMENTARY: The consequences of exporting coal. (Climate Progress)