Courts confronted with pleas to reinitiate Revolution Wind project

In the bustling region of the Northeast, various developments are underway in the realm of climate action and energy production. Here are some of the latest updates:

Ithaca, New York, unveils a comprehensive climate plan

The city of Ithaca has announced an expanded climate plan that encompasses more adaptation and resilience efforts. This new approach takes a holistic view, incorporating affordable housing, bus transit, and a ban on asking job applicants about criminal convictions. The plan aims to create a more sustainable and equitable future for the city.

Vermont Gov. Phil Scott relaxes energy efficiency standards

In a move that has raised eyebrows, Vermont Gov. Phil Scott has signed an executive order reinstating 2020 building codes. This decision will lower energy efficiency standards, reduce insulation requirements, and remove EV charging mandates, leading to concerns about the state's commitment to combating climate change.

Philadelphia experiments with "cool roofs"

In an innovative move, Philadelphia has launched a pilot program offering light-colored "cool roofs" to 150 homes in one neighborhood. The aim is to moderate indoor temperatures, lower energy bills, and reduce the ambient temperature in the community.

Rhode Island anti-wind group gains influence

An anti-wind group in Rhode Island is gaining traction as the Trump administration intensifies its fight against offshore wind. The group's influence could potentially impact the future of renewable energy in the region.

Massachusetts utility supplier faces sanctions

A competitive electric supplier in Massachusetts is facing sanctions, including the stripping of its license to do business in the state and a $5 million fine. The penalties have been imposed due to "egregious" and "deceptive" misconduct.

Opposition mounts against a fossil fuel plan in New York

In New York, opponents, including actor Mark Ruffalo, have rallied against a plan that they believe would lock in the use of harmful fossil fuels and increase costs for customers. The vote on this plan is scheduled for Thursday.

Maryland residents challenge power line developer

In Maryland, 61 residents and businesses have appealed a court ruling that grants a power line developer access to their properties to survey the land for a deeply unpopular planned transmission line.

New York approves gas plan with controversial pipeline

New York utility regulators have voted to approve a long-term gas plan that includes a controversial pipeline. The decision has sparked debate about the future of fossil fuel use in the state.

Renewable energy developers reconsider pumped hydro storage

The growth of intermittent renewable energy generation in New England has led some developers to reconsider one of the oldest forms of energy storage: pumped hydro. This shift could signal a new era in energy storage solutions for the region.

Controversial power line construction disputes in Minnesota

Disputes over a controversial power line construction project are currently taking place in Minnesota. The project's future remains uncertain as stakeholders grapple with its potential impact on the environment and local communities.

Fracking mishap leads to water contamination in Pennsylvania

A fracking mishap in two Pennsylvania towns has resulted in widespread water contamination. More than half of water samples contained oil and gas brine, and two samples contained "explosive" levels of methane.

Connecticut and Rhode Island seek immediate construction of Revolution Wind

Connecticut and Rhode Island's Democratic attorneys general have sought a court order to allow Revolution Wind construction to restart immediately. The project has faced delays, but the attorneys general are pushing for its immediate resumption.

Seven turbines from New York's first onshore wind farm are demolished

Seven turbines from New York's first onshore wind farm have been demolished after 20 years of operation. The decision to dismantle these turbines marks the end of an era for renewable energy in the state.

Billions in federal environmental funds frozen or cancelled in the Northeast

A new map released by the Natural Resources Defense Council shows billions in canceled or frozen federal environmental funds in the Northeast and the rest of the country. This revelation underscores the challenges faced by environmental initiatives at the federal level.