In the news today…
Grid:
- KENS reports that the Texas state power grid saw record-breaking demand of more that 82,500 MW on Wednesday, but generation by wind and solar facilities have kept the grid stable.
- Utility Dive reports that NYC could face up to 446 MW power deficit in 2025, due to electrification and peaker retirements, according to NYISO. Completion of the Champlain Hudson Power Express transmission line, which will bring power to New York City from Quebec, is expected to improve reliability margins beginning in 2026.
Electric Vehicles:
- Chicago Tribune reports that electric truck startup Rivian plans to open its first showroom in Chicago in the coming months.
- Chicago Sun-Times reports that wrapping up a weeklong trip to the U.K., Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker said he is actively pursuing partnerships with electric vehicle companies.
- CNBC reports that Tesla posted net income of $2.7 billion in the second quarter, an increase of 20% compared with last year, as the company anticipates an upcoming third-quarter production slowdown amid summer shutdowns for factory upgrades. Chief Executive Elon Musk said the company will make the Cybertruck “in high volume next year” and will start delivering the electric pickup this year.
Permitting:
- Politico Pro reports a Chamber of Commerce event on critical minerals Wednesday showed the interest in securing supplies needed for the clean energy transition cuts across parties and industries. Rich Nolan is quoted.
- E&E Daily reports a week before they head home for a lengthy August recess, lawmakers said talks on permitting overhaul are continuing, though one prominent lawmaker acknowledged: “The wind is sort of out of the sails.”
Mining:
- Axios is hosting a discussion titled “Mining for the Future” featuring Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) and Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.).