SMART GRID: A new survey finds growing awareness about smart grid programs and services but still relatively low participation among U.S. energy customers. (Midwest Energy News)
CLIMATE:
• At a high school in Ohio, students push back against climate science teachings in the classroom. (New York Times)
• Ohio’s energy sector may prove to be an economic test case for President Trump’s climate decision last week. (E&E News)
• Despite other business leaders’ resigning from White House advisory roles after the Paris announcement, General Motors CEO Mary Barra says she will stay on. (WWJ)
• Secretary of State Rex Tillerson says despite pulling out of the Paris agreement, the U.S. will continue to reduce its carbon emissions. (Associated Press)
PIPELINES: Minnesota regulators are set to hold 22 public meetings on Enbridge’s plan to replace its Line 3 pipeline through the state. (Associated Press)
ELECTRIC VEHICLES: Tesla’s lawsuit against the state of Michigan over a ban on selling vehicles directly to customers could provide a “rare glimpse at what goes on between powerful lobbyists, state lawmakers, and the governor’s office.” (Detroit Free Press)
COAL:
• Across the country, coal mines aren’t reopening as much as President Trump suggests. (Climate Central)
• Industry officials in North Dakota say they’re still committed to carbon capture initiatives despite President Trump’s announcement to pull out of the Paris climate agreement. (Associated Press)
SOLAR: Students at Iowa State University unveil a four-passenger, solar-powered car that can travel up to 70 miles per hour. (WHO-TV)
OIL AND GAS: North Dakota’s oil industry is tentatively optimistic about an economic rebound. (Minneapolis Star Tribune)
BIOFUELS: A Wisconsin ethanol plant where three workers died from an explosion last week was reprimanded by federal safety inspectors in 2011 for not taking precautions against dust explosions. (Associated Press)
EFFICIENCY:
• A 1920s-era apartment building in eastern Michigan receives energy efficiency upgrades through Property Assessed Clean Energy financing that are meant to save $600,000 over the next 20 years. (MLive)
• A zero-emissions home is being built in Detroit by a developer who has plans for seven other similar projects across Michigan. (MLive)
UTILITIES: Some AEP Ohio customers will a receive a bill credit this month following a settlement the utility reached over charges with consumer advocates and other stakeholders. (Columbus Business First)
COMMENTARY:
• Recent court decisions dropping charges against Dakota Access pipeline protesters shows the legal system is working, the Bismarck Tribune says.
• An Indiana editorial board criticizes the state’s Republican congressional delegation for backing President Trump’s climate decision. (Terre Haute Tribune-Star)