In the news today…
Grid:
- States Newsroom reports that Utilities, regulators, lawmakers and grid operators increasingly explore the potential of virtual power plants that could harness power from distributed batteries to reduce grid demand.
- E&E News (subscription) reports that two utilities have filed a federal appeal seeking to overturn a court ruling that’s preventing construction of the last mile of a $650 million transmission line between Iowa and Wisconsin.
- E&E News (subscription) reports rising electricity demand may create a short-term need for more gas plants, jeopardizing emission-reduction targets, according to a new report sponsored by energy companies.
EPA:
- Washington Post reports the EPA is reportedly considering tougher emissions for new natural gas power plants ahead of their expected final release this month — a contrast with other Biden administration environmental rules that have generally been weakened after their initial proposal.
Mining:
- E&E Greenwire reports a proposed gold and antimony mine in Idaho could receive a loan of up to $1.8 billion from the Export-Import Bank of the United States, a major boon for the project that has drawn funding from the Department of Defense.
- Argus reports a Colorado judge has upheld a water discharge permit for Arch Resources’ West Elk mine that expands the number of sources from which the company must monitor and limit pollution.
Coal:
- Argus reports coal-fired power in the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) declined to an 11-month low in March as mild temperatures suppressed overall electricity demand.