Gov. Glenn Youngkin has joined a group of nine other Republican governors who are advocating for “energy choice,” intending to “minimize permitting and other regulatory barriers” and “limit expensive energy mandates,” among other goals. Some clean energy advocates said the term is a euphemism for the continued use of natural gas that pollutes the planet and drives climate change.
See the full story in the Virginia Mercury.
More DMV News
Solar Energy and the Chesapeake Bay: A Balanced Approach to Growth and Conservation
Cardinal News
The Chesapeake Bay has shaped Virginia’s identity from the beginning and continues to be a highly valued resource for those who call Virginia home. Formed approximately 18,000 years ago, the bay is one of the most ecologically significant estuaries in the world, home to over 3,600 species. Today, the bay is a vital economic driver for Virginia, supporting the seafood industry, recreation, and tourism.
Virginia Businesses Weigh Benefits of Electrification as Leaders Review Policies
Virginia Mercury
Amid the commonwealth’s transition to electric vehicles, dealerships, and private companies have been grappling with meeting sales targets and the costs to convert fleets and install infrastructure, as one major auto retailer with a plant in Southwest Virginia manufactures the parts necessary for electric heavy trucks to hit the road here and across America.
More Than 2,000 Trees to be Planted in County to Provide Shade, Improve Air Quality
MoCo360
More than 2,100 trees will be planted in urban parts of Montgomery County, thanks to grants from the Chesapeake Bay Trust in partnership with the state government and the utility Baltimore Gas and Electric, the Chesapeake Bay Trust announced last week.
Exelon Utilities Urge Maryland PSC to Keep Multiyear Rate Process
Utility Dive
Baltimore Gas and Electric, Delmarva Power & Light, and Potomac Electric Power Co. — are urging the Maryland Public Service Commission to continue allowing multi-year rate plans, or MRPs, which they say provide consumer benefits and enable state energy policy, according to Monday filings at the agency.
National and International News
Biden Administration Proposes Expanding Tax Credits for EV Charger Installations
Utility Dive
The Biden administration on Wednesday proposed a new rule that aims to expand access to electric vehicle chargers. The rule provides for individual tax credits up to $1,000 and business credits up to $100,000 for installing clean transportation equipment across most of the country.
Biden’s Green Policies Will Save 200,000 Lives and Have Boosted Clean Energy Jobs, Data Shows
The Guardian
The environmental policies of Joe Biden’s administration will save approximately 200,000 Americans’ lives from dangerous pollution in the coming decades and have spurred a surge in clean energy jobs, two independent reports outlining the stakes of the upcoming US presidential election have found.
One Way to Help the Grid? Smarter Air Conditioning for Big Buildings
Canary Media
Utilities and building owners alike can save money and forestall blackouts by nudging up the thermostat when a heat wave strikes, but dialing back AC use at such moments can put people at risk.
New Federal Housing Grants Are a Win for Climate Change and Environmental Justice
Inside Climate News
More than $69 million from the Department of Housing and Urban Development will be used to improve energy efficiency and install solar power and heat pumps in affordable housing units.
Vacant Urban Land Poses Complex Questions for Clean Energy Siting
Energy News Network
Ensuring that traditionally disinvested Black and Brown communities are not left behind is essential for a just transition away from carbon-based energy sources.