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In a much-anticipated move, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing repeal of the Clean Power Plan (CPP).  The draft proposed rule outlines EPA’s revised interpretation of its authority under Clean Air Act section 111(d) to regulate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from power plants only within the fenceline.  EPA concludes in the proposed rule…

At least 116 megawatts of new solar energy development will soon be underway in Oregon, supported by the state’s Solar Development Incentive (SDI) program.

Oregon’s SDI program was approved by the 2016 legislature, and is intended to encourage utility-scale solar development in the state.  Through a one-time application process, the program provides solar developers of …

Amidst all the focus in Washington DC over inauguration crowd sizes, at least one state is instead focusing on matters affecting jobs, security, and quality of life–renewable energy!  A bill (SD.1932) introduced in Massachusetts would require the state to use 100% renewable energy for electricity by 2035 and also seeks to deeply cut fossil fuels…

Today, the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission approved Xcel Energy’s dramatic proposal to shift away from coal generation toward renewable energy.   In authorizing the company’s 2016-2030 Integrated Resource Plan (RP-15-21), the Commission directed Xcel to retire two large coal units capable of generating approximately 680 MW each, procure at least 1,ooo MW of wind by 2019,…

Yesterday, Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton announced the appointment of Matthew Schuerger to the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (MPUC).  Mr. Schuerger will replace Commissioner Betsy Wergin, whose term expired January 4, 2016.  Governor Dayton’s Press Release can be found here.

The MPUC consists of five commissioners appointed by the governor to six-year, staggered terms. Under…

Within the last hour, it is being reported that Senate Democrats have reached an agreement with certain Republican Senators and the White House on the outlines of a compromise stimulus bill that can pass the Senate.  Although details are sketchy, apparently WH Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel met with Senate Democratic leaders and swing Republicans…

Check out our recent client alert on President-elect Obama’s selection of California congresswoman Hilda Solis as Labor Secretary, which we believe highlights the significance the incoming administration is placing on clean renewable energy and the contributing role of green jobs.  Also highlighted in our client alert is the efforts of several states, including Minnesota, California…