In the news today…
Coal:
- Utility Dive reports Republican lawmakers and the federal government are continuing efforts to support the coal industry, evidenced by an increase in research funding opportunities and proposed legislation meant to benefit the fuel production and the possibility of future plants.
- Argus reports Texas wind farms in areas with high wind potential could be paired with solar generation to increase the reliability of power production. The combination could allow the state to transition away from fossil fuel generation, the researchers say in a new report.
- Deseret News reports an analysis by PacifiCorp shows 60 percent of its coal-fired power plant units are more costly to run than shutter, prompting the company to request additional time to review their potential operational life. The December request for a delay before the Public Service Commission involves the depreciation schedule for power plant units it operates in six states, including Utah.
Politics:
- E&E Daily reports incoming House Energy and Commerce Chairman Frank Pallone (D-N.J.) and Senate Energy and Natural Resources Chairwoman Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) are hoping for progress this Congress on energy reform legislation.
- CNBC reports House Democrats plan to hold hearings on the role industry insiders played in President Trump’s rollback of energy and environmental regulations.
- E&E Daily reports the Senate last night approved a series of energy and environment nominees by voice vote in the final full day of the 115th Congress.
Power Grid:
- Utility Dive covers the top 10 trends that will shape the electric power sector in 2019. From coal bailouts to batteries and wind and solar growth, Gavin Bade reports on the issues that will define the year to come.
World News:
- Reuters reports renewables overtook coal as Germany’s main source of energy for the first time last year, accounting for just over 40 percent of electricity production, research showed on Thursday.