Midwest Lawmakers Advance Renewable Energy, Fracking Rules
Lawmakers in Minnesota and Illinois have made progress on renewable energy and fracking regulations. Meanwhile, new technology and efficiency programs are boosting energy efforts in Michigan, Wisconsin, and Ohio.
In Minnesota, lawmakers have agreed to a 1.5 percent solar energy standard. This move aims to increase the use of clean energy in the state. Additionally, they have reached a compromise on frac sand regulation, imposing tougher permit requirements for operations near trout streams. This decision balances environmental concerns with industry needs.
In Illinois, a bill to regulate fracking has again moved forward. Lawmakers resolved a dispute over a union requirement, paving the way for stricter oversight of the industry. Meanwhile, in Ohio, officials are considering a proposal to allow radioactive drilling waste to be disposed in landfills. The fate of this proposal remains uncertain.
New technology has increased the viability of a proposed Michigan wind farm site. This development could lead to more renewable news efforts in the state. In Wisconsin, a new report finds that the state's efficiency program is back on track, delivering $2.89 in benefits for every dollar spent. This program is helping Wisconsin save energy and money.
The International Energy Agency has found that pipelines spilled three times more oil than trains over comparable distances from 2004 to 2012. This finding underscores the importance of safe and efficient energy transportation. In Ohio, an Ohio State University team is aiming to build the world's fastest electric car, demonstrating the state's commitment to innovative energy solutions. The origins of two goldfish found in an Ohio nuclear plant remain a mystery, adding an unusual twist to the state's energy story.
These developments highlight the ongoing efforts to balance energy production, environmental concerns, and technological innovation across the Midwest. As lawmakers and officials continue to work on these issues, the region's energy landscape is expected to evolve significantly in the coming years.
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