Central Illinois grapples with concerns over carbon capture technologies
In the heart of America, the Midwest is witnessing a flurry of energy-related developments, transitions, and regulatory challenges.
Ohio-based energy technology manufacturer Babcock & Wilcox Enterprises Inc. has partnered with a global investment firm to pursue opportunities for converting coal plants to natural gas, a move that could signal a shift towards cleaner energy sources (Crain's Cleveland).
Meanwhile, Iowa State University researchers are exploring the potential for using bio-oil made from plant waste to plug abandoned oil wells, a promising avenue for waste management and environmental protection (Iowa Capital Dispatch).
Utility regulators in multiple Midwest states are pushing back on companies' requests involving executive pay and travel expenses as electricity costs increase for customers. This move is aimed at ensuring affordability and transparency in the energy sector (E&E News).
The architect and key Democratic negotiator behind Illinois clean energy legislation has announced plans to step down and not seek re-election in 2026, potentially marking a change in the state's energy policy landscape (Capitol News Illinois).
Climate change is not just an environmental issue; it's also impacting mental health. Psychologists in Missouri and other states are reporting rising rates of mental health challenges caused by increasing climate-fueled extreme weather incidents (KTTN).
North Dakota lawmakers are planning to address the issue of oil and gas producers deducting money from mineral owners' share of income, following years of inaction and an investigation (ProPublica/North Dakota Monitor).
The Czech energy company ČEZ aims to implement the conversion from coal power plants to nuclear power and small modular reactors. The company is strategically working with the British company Rolls-Royce SMR, in which it holds a 20% stake after investing nearly a quarter of a billion euros (no specific Midwest location provided).
Minnesota regulators are considering Xcel Energy's rate increase for grid infrastructure, clean energy, and nuclear investments. Meanwhile, they have approved plans for a 66 MW solar project to come online by the end of next year (MPR News).
However, not all energy developments in Minnesota are met with enthusiasm. A proposed carbon capture storage site in Central Illinois is causing concern among residents due to potential groundwater contamination, near an aquifer supplying drinking water to over 800,000 people in 14 counties (Chicago Tribune).
In other news, the Michigan Supreme Court has revived a citizen opposition group's lawsuit against Ford's electric vehicle battery plant in Michigan (MLive).
Heavier rainfall caused by a warming climate is accelerating erosion in parts of Minnesota and causing more frequent landslides and rockfalls (MPR News).
Wisconsin ratepayers have asked state regulators to freeze utility rate increases for the next two years (Wisconsin Public Radio).
Stellantis, the automaker, has cancelled plans for an all-electric Ram pickup truck, citing slowed EV demand (Detroit Free Press).
These developments highlight the complex interplay between energy production, climate change, and public concern in the Midwest. As the region navigates these challenges, it continues to serve as a bellwether for the nation's energy transition.
Read also:
- Fresh Strategies Embraced for Eco-Friendly Design Solutions
- Weekly developments in the German federal parliament, the Bundestag
- Solar Shutdown: Merz Proposes Billions of Gas Discharge - Reverse Plan
- New guidelines for NEPA processes unveiled by federal agencies, in alignment with Executive Order 14154 and the Seven County Decision of the Supreme Court
