Wind Project Restart?
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In the realm of renewable energy, the United States is witnessing a flurry of activity and challenges. Here are some notable developments and hurdles in various states:
Connecticut and Rhode Island
The potential restart of Revolution Wind, a significant offshore wind farm, is under discussion. U.S. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum is engaged in talks with developers and the governors of both states. However, Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont has expressed concerns about the Trump administration's lack of response to his overtures regarding the project. The negotiations remain unresolved due to unresolved national security concerns raised by the U.S. government.
Maryland
Former presidential candidate and Trump official Ben Carson may face challenges in his plans to build a solar farm near his Maryland home. Maryland regulators have yet to make a decision on a controversial transmission line proposal, which could delay the project's start until February 2027.
New Hampshire
Energy advocates and lawmakers are debating whether subsidies should be used to encourage greater adoption of solar power. This discussion comes as the Trump administration's reversal of renewable energy programs and funding has dimmed prospects for those entering the solar industry, such as graduates from a New Jersey program training formerly incarcerated individuals.
Pennsylvania
A solar-powered microgrid is providing electricity for a Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission regional office and a state police barracks. Additionally, utility regulators have approved a plan to speed the replacement of aging plastic gas pipes prone to cracking and failures.
Massachusetts
The Bay State has seen significant strides in renewable energy. A 150-megawatt battery energy storage system, the largest connected to the New England grid, has come online. Furthermore, Massachusetts received 13 bids for a request for proposals for 1.5 gigawatts of mid-duration energy storage, with projects expected to be selected by early December.
Rhode Island
Gov. Dan McKee has announced a $200 million relief package aimed at reducing the impact of high energy bills.
Elsewhere
Infrastructure limitations on sending power between regional grids throughout the eastern United States could cause reliability problems in severe weather, according to a new report. Meanwhile, a plan to build an AI data center on the site of a shuttered coal-fired power plant in upstate New York has raised concerns about the massive power demand the facility would put on the grid.
These developments and challenges underscore the complexities and opportunities in the renewable energy sector across the United States. As the country continues to transition towards cleaner energy sources, these issues will likely remain at the forefront of discussions.
