In the news today…
Congress:
- National Journal reports Rep. Bruce Westerman is set to be perched atop the Natural Resources Committee. He’ll have to navigate Democratic opposition, firebrand Republicans, and the politics of divided government to advance his agenda.
Coal:
- U.S. News reports one of the largest coal producers in the United States has sued a major freight railroad, alleging it breached a contract to transport coal from Montana for use overseas.
- Washington Examiner reports Germany is slated to boost its coal imports next year, becoming one of the few nations to do so as it races to replace Russian supplies and prepare for the 2022-2023 winter.
Energy:
- Washington Post reports a company that plans to make batteries for the U.S. energy grid will locate its first full-scale manufacturing plant in a former steel town in West Virginia, creating at least 750 jobs in a $760 million investment, Gov. Jim Justice said Thursday.