Wyoming legislators pondering radioactive waste storage options
In the realm of energy and environmental news, several significant developments have taken place across the country.
Pacific Gas & Electric has made a notable move, agreeing to purchase 1,800 GWh of battery storage capacity from Aypa Power. This strategic move is part of a broader effort to bolster its energy storage capabilities.
Meanwhile, in Nevada, Enphase Power has brought its 185 MW Escape solar-plus-storage facility online. This facility, located in Nevada, is poised to provide power to Las Vegas casinos and resorts, furthering the state's renewable energy ambitions.
However, not all news is positive. Hilcorp oil and gas company is seeking federal permission to potentially harm critically endangered beluga whales and other marine mammals while drilling in Alaska's Cook Inlet. This proposal has sparked concern among environmentalists and marine life advocates.
Federal lawmakers from Oregon have called on the Trump administration to rescind an executive order aimed at blocking state climate action laws. They argue that this order could delay Multnomah County's $52 billion lawsuit against oil and gas companies.
In Colorado, Western Colorado utility Holy Cross Energy reported that clean energy sources provided 96% of its load this May. However, the utility faces challenges in achieving further decarbonization goals due to Trump administration policies and global economics.
The search for a company planning to build a demonstration nuclear reactor in Wyoming continues, with no specific location or company name revealed as of yet.
U.S. Interior Department officials are praising Sable Offshore for resuming oil and gas production without necessary state permits off California's coast. This decision has sparked controversy and concerns about environmental safety.
Denver has launched an ad campaign aimed at encouraging and empowering residents to fight climate change and to combat environmental fatalism. The campaign seeks to inspire action and promote a sustainable future.
In Arizona, Attorney General Kris Mayes has criticized the San Carlos Irrigation Project for frequent power outages, labelling them a "stunning failure" of oversight and accountability.
The reduced federal oil and gas royalty rates have led to a loss of $52.1 million from 7,052 acres of parcels recently leased in New Mexico. This loss underscores the financial impact of these lower rates.
Colorado advocates are criticizing oil and gas leasing provisions in the recently passed Republican tax and spending bill, calling them an "egregious step back for the environment."
Pacific Gas & Electric and San Jose have agreed to work together to attract data centers and other large power users to California's South Bay. This collaboration aims to boost the region's economy and energy infrastructure.
Wyoming lawmakers are considering legislation that would allow advanced nuclear reactor firms to store high-level radioactive waste onsite. This proposal, if passed, could have significant implications for nuclear waste management in the state.
A Colorado energy researcher has expressed concerns about proposed nuclear reactors in the state, citing their high costs, long lead times, and lack of flexibility. This perspective adds to the ongoing debate about the role of nuclear energy in the state's energy mix.
California environmental justice advocates are working to ensure the planned 1,150 MW Darden solar-plus-storage project benefits nearby communities. Their efforts emphasize the importance of equitable distribution of renewable energy resources.
The U.S. Energy Department is seeking private firms to develop AI data centers and related power infrastructure on the Idaho National Laboratory and three other federal sites. This move is part of a broader strategy to advance AI technology and energy infrastructure.
Finally, the California Transportation Commission has voted to spend $94 million to build more than 500 electric truck charging ports along the state's busiest trade corridors. This investment aims to support the growing electric vehicle market and promote sustainable transportation.
These developments highlight the dynamic and diverse landscape of energy and environmental news in the United States. From renewable energy projects to oil and gas production, and from nuclear energy debates to electric vehicle infrastructure, these stories reflect the ongoing efforts to balance energy needs, environmental concerns, and economic growth.
