Ohio's laws necessitate examination of emerging power grid technology
In the heart of the United States, the Midwest region is witnessing a surge in renewable energy and infrastructure projects that are reshaping its economy and environment.
A significant development in Wisconsin sees a 100 MW battery energy storage system now in operation, paired with a 200 MW solar farm. This system, which began operation six months after a neighboring solar farm started, is a testament to the region's commitment to clean energy. Energy Tech
Meanwhile, the wind industry in Indiana is experiencing growth, with nearly 7,000 workers employed and generating $23 million in state and local tax payments in 2023. Building Indiana Business
Looking north, Minnesota is considering the approval of a 200 MW solar farm, with the developer addressing concerns about decommissioning and project impact on views. If approved, this solar farm could potentially create new job opportunities and contribute to the local economy.
In a related development, an administrative judge has recommended approval for another 200 MW solar farm in Minnesota, following the developer's agreement to address decommissioning and view impact concerns. West Central Tribune
Elsewhere, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has added additional restrictions to protect the threatened Kirtland's warbler to a permit for a company to operate a 16-inch natural gas pipeline in Michigan. Michigan Advance
The growth of renewables and their boost to rural Midwest economies, however, are facing threats. Trump's tariffs and the rollback of federal funding for clean energy are causing concerns among policy analysts. Detroit Lakes Tribune
In Ohio, lawmakers are considering legislation to regulate entities that purchase power wholesale and resell it to tenants, potentially treating them with the same regulatory oversight as utilities. Ohio Capital Journal
Kansas is also seeing significant changes, with Panasonic's $4 billion electric-vehicle battery plant expected to bring 4,000 new jobs and stimulate new housing developments. Kansas City Star
In regulatory news, Kansas regulatory staff and two other intervenors have recommended a smaller increase for Entergy than its requested $192 million rate hike. Topeka Capital-Journal
Environmental concerns have also arisen in Indiana, with local groups petitioning the U.S. EPA over an air permit awarded to Cleveland-Cliffs' Indiana Harbor facility. The petition argues that the facility's operations are likely to harm residents in East Chicago and Gary. Chicago Tribune
On a positive note, a new Ohio law encourages the consideration of software and hardware solutions to enhance grid infrastructure, potentially increasing room for renewables and reducing the need for coal-fired power plants. Our Website
Lastly, Texas lawmakers have approved a $1.8 billion fund to boost the power grid by supporting the deployment of microgrids at critical facilities such as hospitals and water treatment plants. Our Website
These developments highlight the dynamic and evolving landscape of renewable energy and infrastructure in the Midwest, a region that is increasingly becoming a hub for clean energy projects.
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