Rise in residential energy costs expected from a new North Carolina bill, according to an analysis
In the realm of energy policy, several Southern states have been witnessing significant shifts and debates recently.
In South Carolina, the editorial board of The Post and Courier has called for a firmer stance from lawmakers and utilities when negotiating with data centers seeking incentives and lower power rates. Meanwhile, in Virginia, Republican critics have taken issue with Democratic gubernatorial candidate Abigail Spanberger's energy platform, claiming it leans too heavily on energy efficiency and demand-side measures.
Moving north, North Carolina lawmakers are advancing legislation that could potentially increase residential electricity prices for Duke Energy customers. This contrasts with Florida, where Florida Power & Light has announced plans to build a 75 MW solar farm on a site previously occupied by citrus groves affected by citrus greening.
In Maine, some solar developers are considering ceasing operations if lawmakers impose fees on existing community solar installations. Supporters of the legislation claim these measures will ultimately save consumers money.
The energy sector in West Virginia is embroiled in a dispute between internet companies and public utilities, as they argue over the costs of upgrading aging utility poles for the state's broadband expansion.
In Georgia, health advocates and scientists have criticized the Trump administration's plans to revise carbon pollution and mercury standards, arguing they could harm the health of state residents, particularly those in vulnerable communities.
Elsewhere, a biomass power plant is being considered in a South Carolina coastal city as part of a conversation about the city's economic future following the closure of a longtime paper mill.
In political news, Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin has called for the dismissal of PJM's chief executive, following criticism of the grid operator by multiple governors. Similarly, President Trump has dismissed a third member of the Tennessee Valley Authority Board of Directors, leaving the board short of a quorum.
In the world of electric vehicles, a car dealership in Richmond, Virginia, that exclusively sells electric and hybrid vehicles has expanded to a neighboring lot. Republican U.S. Rep. Buddy Carter discussed topics like Hyundai's electric vehicle plant, solar power, and nuclear power expansion at the Canary Live event in Washington, D.C.
Lastly, eliminating Biden-era clean energy tax credits could potentially threaten businesses' plans to create 20,000 new jobs and invest more than $32 billion into South Carolina's economy, as well as efforts to upgrade the power grid.
These developments underscore the ongoing dynamic nature of energy policies and projects in the Southern states, with a diverse range of perspectives and approaches being advocated and implemented.
