Appeals Court Orders LNG Terminal Re-evaluation as Energy Industry Faces Scrutiny
A federal appeals court has ordered a re-evaluation of two proposed LNG terminals in Texas, while environmental justice advocates push for stronger protections. Meanwhile, utilities and manufacturers collaborate on small modular reactors, and the Interior Department reviews a controversial drilling decision.
The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals has instructed federal regulators to reassess the environmental impact of two proposed LNG terminals in Texas. The ruling requires further analysis of greenhouse gas emissions and potential effects on low-income or minority communities.
In a separate development, an ExxonMobil lobbyist, who admitted the company's past opposition to climate action, has been appointed to the advisory board of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation. This has raised eyebrows among critics.
Utilities are teaming up with manufacturers to develop small modular reactors, which could be produced in factories. This collaboration aims to create a new source of clean energy.
The Interior Department is reviewing the Trump administration's decision to allow drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, a move that sparked controversy and concern among environmentalists.
Texas' top power companies have been showering state lawmakers with campaign contributions, sparking questions about whether the legislature has been too lenient with the oil, gas, and broader energy industry following last winter's storm.
Over 160 environmental groups, labor unions, and companies have signed a letter urging U.S. Congress members to include funding for carbon capture and storage in infrastructure bills. This push for clean energy solutions is gaining momentum.
The U.S. Energy Department has submitted a rule reversing Trump administration exemptions to appliances' energy and water conservation standards, a move that could save consumers money and reduce emissions.
US Wind is expanding an offshore wind project off the coast of Maryland and plans to build a steel manufacturing facility nearby, creating jobs and clean energy.
Environmental justice advocates in the Memphis area are pushing local governments to pass ordinances that would distance pipelines from residential areas and create a new permitting process for pipeline projects.
Virginia's decision to join an East Coast carbon cap-and-invest enterprise will fund weatherization programs for low- and moderate-income families struggling to pay electric bills, a move that could provide relief and reduce emissions.
These developments highlight the ongoing efforts to balance energy needs with environmental and social concerns, as well as the push for cleaner, more equitable energy solutions.
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