Ohio legislature examines novel power grid technology
In the heart of the United States, Midwestern states are making significant strides in the realm of clean energy, while also navigating new regulations to ensure a sustainable and equitable transition.
Ohio lawmakers are considering legislation that could regulate entities purchasing power wholesale and reselling it to tenants, potentially treating them with the same regulatory oversight as utilities. This move could pave the way for a more transparent energy market in the state. (Ohio Capital Journal)
Meanwhile, the growth of renewables in the Midwest is facing challenges from Trump's tariffs and the rollback of federal funding for clean energy, which are seen as threats to the positive impact of renewables on rural economies. (Detroit Lakes Tribune)
In a positive development, an administrative judge has recommended approval for a 200 MW solar farm in Minnesota, following the developer's agreement to address decommissioning concerns and the project's effect on views. (West Central Tribune)
Wisconsin has made strides in clean energy as well, with Alliant Energy operating a 100 MW battery energy storage system, six months after a neighboring 200 MW solar farm started functioning. (Energy Tech)
Texas lawmakers have approved a $1.8 billion fund to support the deployment of microgrids at critical facilities like hospitals, nursing homes, water treatment plants, police and fire stations, aiming to ensure energy resilience in the Lone Star State. (our website)
However, controversies persist. Indiana environmental groups have petitioned the U.S. EPA against an air permit awarded to Cleveland-Cliffs' Indiana Harbor facility due to potential harmful effects on East Chicago and Gary residents. (Chicago Tribune)
Ohio is also encouraging the consideration of software and hardware solutions for grid infrastructure, potentially increasing room for renewables and reducing the need for coal-fired power plants. (our website)
The wind industry is flourishing in Indiana, employing nearly 7,000 workers and generating $23 million in state and local tax payments in 2023. (Building Indiana Business)
Kansas regulatory staff and two other intervenors have recommended a smaller increase for Entergy than its requested $192 million rate hike. (Topeka Capital-Journal)
Panasonic's $4 billion electric-vehicle battery plant in Kansas is projected to bring 4,000 new jobs and drive new housing developments, further boosting the state's clean energy sector. (Kansas City Star)
Lastly, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has added restrictions to a permit for a 16-inch natural gas pipeline operation in Michigan to protect the threatened Kirtland's warbler. (Michigan Advance)
These developments highlight the dynamic and evolving landscape of clean energy in the Midwest, where states are balancing economic growth, environmental concerns, and regulatory oversight to shape a sustainable energy future.
