The reasons for the recent solar company collapses
In the world of energy and climate, there's been a flurry of activity across the United States. Here's a summary of some key developments:
Solar Energy
The proposed cuts in Trump's "big beautiful bill" could lead to a significant drop in rooftop solar installations. Estimates suggest a 50% decrease next year and an 85% decrease through 2030 (New York Times). On a more positive note, Origis Energy has successfully closed financing for a 200 MW solar farm and 50 MW battery facility in Mississippi.
Fossil Fuels and Renewable Energy Support
A new survey finds support for renewable energy has fallen among both Republicans and Democrats over the last five years, while backing for expanding fossil fuels and nuclear production has grown (Canary Media - Pam Radtke). In contrast, Virginia Democratic gubernatorial candidate Abigail Spanberger has announced an energy platform focusing on expanding generation and addressing data center energy prices.
Coal and Mining
Coal miners' efforts to push back against Trump's cuts to federal agencies monitoring mines for safety conditions and screening miners for black lung disease have been successful, at least in part (Grist). However, the construction of Hyundai's electric vehicle and battery factory in Georgia has seen three worker fatalities and another 15 serious injuries, raising concerns about safety oversight and the pace of construction.
Regulatory Changes and Legal Challenges
Cleveland-Cliffs has declined a forgivable $50 million loan from West Virginia after abandoning its plans to build a transformer factory in the state. In Virginia, 11 lawmakers have called on a candidate in the Democratic primary for attorney general to recuse herself from cases involving Dominion Energy. A judge has disqualified a candidate in the Democratic primary for the Georgia Public Service Commission due to residency requirements.
Climate Change and Hurricane Season
Virginia gears up for a climate-exacerbated hurricane season as the Trump administration calls for states to shoulder more of the burden of response and recovery. As many as 44% of National Weather Service positions in Houston are vacant due to Trump's cuts, causing staff shortages during an above-normal activity hurricane season.
Environmental Concerns
A study finds certain Virginia neighborhoods with low tree cover and expansive concrete spaces can be more than 15 degrees hotter than other places. Environmental groups are pressing the U.S. EPA to recognize that the Memphis metro area has ozone emissions levels that fail to meet national health standards. Southern California regulators have rejected rules encouraging electric heat pump and water heater adoption, which would have reduced greenhouse gas emissions in the smog-plagued area.
Texas Energy Production
Texas gas production hit a record high between January and May, accounting for 42.2% of total U.S. crude oil production and 29.2% of U.S.-marketed natural gas production. However, more than 100 gas-fired power plants totaling 58 GW have been proposed in Texas, which could emit an estimated 115 million metric tons of greenhouse gases every year.
Conclusion
These developments highlight the ongoing debates and challenges in the energy and climate sector across the United States. As we move forward, it's clear that these issues will continue to be at the forefront of political and environmental discussions. Stay tuned for more updates from the Southeast Energy News newsletter.
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