In the news today…
Fusion:
- Politico reports that the Department of Energy announced a recent breakthrough in fusion technology as “one of the most impressive scientific feats in the 21st century,” although scientists say it will take decades and hundreds of billions of dollars to reach commercial deployment. Scientists optimistic about the potential for fusion energy say the technology will allow for cheap, abundant and emissions-free power without radioactive waste.
- E&E News reports that the Department of Energy on Tuesday celebrated a major fusion energy milestone, outlining how scientists for the first time were able to produce more energy from a reaction than was consumed.
Permitting:
- E&E News reports that the U.S. Senate is expected to vote on Sen. Joe Manchin’s energy permitting bill as an amendment to a defense spending bill, though observers say it faces slim chances of passing.
Minerals:
- E&E Greenwire reports the White House announced today the U.S. is joining an international critical minerals alliance to bolster the clean energy transition.
- E&E Daily reports Senate Energy and Natural Resources Chair Joe Manchin is cautioning the Treasury Department against taking a lenient view on the strict domestic sourcing requirements for electric vehicles included in the Inflation Reduction Act.
- Politico Pro reports Mountain Pass sits at the center of America’s plan to rival China’s iron grip on critical rare earth elements used in advanced commercial and military technology.
Coal:
- Argus reports a Q&A with Paul Vining, chairman of Westmoreland Mining and former vice president of Peabody Energy. In this Q&A, edited for length and clarity, he talks about why transitioning from coal is likely to be more challenging than many perceive.
- Argus reports coal-fired generation in the PJM Interconnection rose last month from the historically low levels set in November 2021.
Climate:
- E&E Climatewire reports the European Union’s climate import tax could galvanize a congressional conversation about enacting a similar policy in the United States.