Fusion breakthrough could be energy, climate game-changer
Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm announced a “major scientific breakthrough” Tuesday in the decades-long quest to harness fusion, the energy that powers the sun and stars.
Energy & Environment
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IEA: Renewables could top coal as electricity source by 2025
More than 90% of global electricity expansion will be from renewable sources in the coming five years, the International Energy Agency said, revising its forecast for 2027 upward by 30%.
Hoosier consumer advocates ask feds to probe regional energy operator
An Indianapolis-based ratepayer protection group has asked federal regulators to audit spending by a Carmel-based energy transmission system operator for an annual meeting at luxury resort 600 miles beyond its service territory.
EPA seeks to mandate more use of ethanol, other biofuels
The move was welcomed by renewable fuel and farm groups but condemned by environmentalists and oil industry groups.
U.S. gas prices plunge toward $3 a gallon as demand drops worldwide
Filling up is now is as low as it was in February, just before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine touched off a global energy crisis.
Installation incentives: New law provides push for homeowners, businesses to go green
Under the Inflation Reduction Act, signed into law by President Biden on Aug. 16, some consumers may qualify for more than $10,000 in rebates and tax credits for buying high-efficiency appliances and electric vehicles and other purchases to decrease their carbon footprints.
Biden set to expand methane emissions rules amid push for more oil
The supplemental rule comes as President Biden has accused oil companies of “war profiteering” and raised the possibility of imposing a windfall tax on energy companies if they don’t boost domestic production.
Coal plant operators shirking responsibilities on ash cleanup, report contends
Environmentalist says coal ash has contaminated drinking water wells in four Indiana communities.
Political spat over responsible investing gets hotter
The political fight is only getting fiercer over whether it’s financially wise or “woke” folly to consider a company’s impact on climate change, workers’ rights and other issues when making investments.
Biden paints oil firms as war profiteers, talks windfall tax
The president suggested he will look to Congress to levy tax penalties on oil companies if they don’t begin to invest some profits in lowering costs for American consumers. The president issued the warning just days before the Nov. 8 midterm elections.
State-led coalition vying for federal funds to create a hydrogen hub
The Indiana Economic Development Corp., along with public and private partners, is hoping for a piece of $7 billion in grants to establish northwestern Indiana as one of a handful of hydrogen hubs nationwide.
Biden signs international climate deal to limit refrigerants
More than 130 nations, including China, India and Russia, have formally ratified the agreement, which compels countries to limit the use of hydrofluorocarbons.
AES Indiana seeks to convert coal-fired units at Petersburg plant to natural gas
For years, environmentalists and public officials have urged AES Indiana to stop burning coal at its largest and dirtiest power plant. Now, it appears that the Indianapolis-based utility is getting ready to do just that.
Renters face charging dilemma as U.S. cities move toward EVs
EVs are soaring in popularity amid tax incentives and high gas prices, but how and where to charge up remains a dilemma that’s a barrier for most renters.
State energy group takes cautious approach in industry transition to renewables
The task force approved 13 recommendations in a draft final report that could result in proposed legislation during the session in January.
Facing tough midterms, Biden releasing oil from U.S. reserve
The withdrawals have sent the nation’s strategic reserve to its lowest level since 1984 in what the administration called a “bridge” until domestic production could be increased.
EPA: UPS to pay fine, correct hazardous waste violations
The company has three years to reach compliance across 1,160 locations and will pay a civil penalty of $5.3 million.
US awards $2.8B in grants for EV batteries in 12 states
A total of 20 companies will receive grants for projects to extract and process lithium, graphite and other battery materials, manufacture components and strengthen U.S. supply of critical minerals, officials said.
White House set to tap oil reserve again amid high fuel prices
Gasoline prices, one of the most visible signs of inflation, are a political headache for President Biden, who in recent weeks has repeatedly warned oil companies against raising costs.
Former Global Gifts chief to lead Hoosier Environmental Council
Sam Carpenter succeeds Jesse Kharbanda, who led the organization for more than 14 years before stepping down early this year.