Energy Projects Surge: Pipeline Decisions, Renewable Advancements, and Investment Losses
A flurry of activities and decisions surround energy projects across the USA. From pipeline approvals to renewable energy developments, here's a roundup of recent happenings.
In Michigan, an unidentified individual claiming to be the governor will participate in a virtual conference to discuss the approval of the Line 5 Pipeline, potentially linking it with the Line 3 Pipeline project in Minnesota. Meanwhile, North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum expressed disappointment at the planned closure of Great River Energy's 1,151 MW Coal Creek Station plant.
A federal judge has upheld a ruling against the Keystone XL pipeline but revised it to allow a disputed federal permitting program for stream and wetland crossings to be used again for electric transmission projects. An environmental group in Michigan's Upper Peninsula will host a virtual meeting to discuss permitting for the Line 5 pipeline. The Trump administration has moved to block a Washington state law that imposed safety restrictions on oil transported by rail from the Bakken region.
The first turbine has been installed at a 600 MW wind project in Missouri and Kansas, set to be operational next year. Joe Biden's campaign has not responded to questions about his position on the Line 3 pipeline project in Minnesota. Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers' recent appointment to the state's Public Service Commission could build support for clean energy projects.
The Mayo Clinic's investment in a Texas oil and gas firm has lost more than $45 million in the first quarter due to the pandemic. County officials in central Iowa plan to introduce an ordinance allowing for more widespread use of solar energy on agricultural land. The future of Exelon's Illinois nuclear plants remains uncertain as state lawmakers are unable to meet to consider plans of withdrawing from PJM's capacity market.
These developments highlight the complex and evolving landscape of energy policies and projects across the United States. From pipeline approvals and closures to renewable energy advancements and investment losses, stakeholders await further decisions and actions.
