In the news today and from the weekend…
Grid:
- Utility Dive reports that Federal Energy Regulatory Commission members debate whether climate change or renewable power is more to blame for this summer’s predicted high risks for power outages in much of the country.
- E&E News reports that the U.S. Energy Department seeks an unprecedented expansion of high-voltage electricity transmission lines to carry clean power by prioritizing shovel-ready projects and seeking state support for interregional connections.
Mining:
- E&E Greenwire reports a champion of climate change rules nominated to lead EPA’s air office has picked up support from an unlikely group that often opposes efforts to transition away from traditional fuel sources — coal miners.
- E&E Greenwire reports conservation and Indigenous rights organizations are urging the Biden administration to impose binding environmental and human rights standards on mining companies that receive subsidies under a revived Cold War-era program.
- E&E News PM reports Colorado Democratic Sen. Michael Bennet is proposing to protect parts of Colorado’s Gunnison Basin from new mining and oil and gas development.
Minerals:
- Protocol reports minerals are getting very expensive.