EMISSIONS: Clean energy groups and Xcel Energy tell Minnesota regulators to adopt a “much higher” social cost of carbon figure than is used now. (Minnesota Public Radio)
GRID:
• Clean energy groups are divided over the need for a 125-mile, $500 million transmission line proposed through southwest Wisconsin. (Wisconsin State Journal)
• The lead author and independent consultant on a highly anticipated grid study by the Department of Energy says the report has not been influenced politically. (E&E News)
COAL:
• Illinois utility representatives say their customers are being hamstrung by high electric rates because their wholesale power supplier is over-invested in coal. (Southern Illinoisan)
• Researchers are using North Dakota coal seams as a model for finding rare earth elements. (Bismarck Tribune)
PIPELINES:
• Inspection reports from 2013 and 2016 show that the section where Enbridge wants to install anchor supports on the underwater portions of Line 5 is bent and deformed. (MLive)
• More public hearings are scheduled this month to provide feedback on an alternatives analysis for Line 5. (Associated Press)
• North Dakota regulators will begin public hearings on a planned 180-mile oil pipeline through the state, the largest proposal since the Dakota Access pipeline. (Bismarck Tribune)
• The Dakota Access pipeline developer receives approval from North Dakota regulators on a tree replacement program along the route. (Associated Press)
SOLAR:
• More libraries in Wisconsin are installing solar panels to help reduce energy costs. (Wisconsin Rapids Daily Tribune)
• An Ann Arbor, Michigan couple waits to install solar panels on their property as local officials set rules for ground-mounted installations in front yards. (MLive)
• An Indiana group is helping residents install solar panels before new net metering rules take effect. (WNDU)
RENEWABLES: Michigan regulators are expected to rule by the end of the month on setting new rates paid to independent, renewable energy power producers. (Crain’s Detroit Business)
RATES: A new report from Illinois regulators says some consumers are overpaying for electricity on the open market. (WLS-TV)
COMMENTARY: Five members of the governor-appointed Pipeline Safety Advisory Board in Michigan list several reasons why a recent report “fails to meet the stated objectives and scope” of reviewing Line 5. (Port Huron Times Herald)