March 7, 2025
Environmental Justice
Environmental Justice
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recalled dozens of environmental justice staffers who were previously placed on administrative leave under the Trump...
Minnesota Reboots Community Solar Program with New Focus on Lower-Income Residents
Summary
Minnesota's community solar program, one of the oldest and largest in the U.S., is undergoing significant changes with a new state law aiming to enhance equity and residential participation. Launched in 2013, the program has seen over 800 megawatts of solar capacity development. The recent legislation shifts program management to the Minnesota Department of Commerce, addressing concerns about bias in administration by utility Xcel Energy. Developers can now build larger projects with fewer geographic restrictions, up to 5 megawatts, and subscriber requirements mandate 30% low- or moderate-income participants. While some anticipate a slow start under the new rules, developers generally support the shift, emphasizing improved alignment with the original community solar concept, allowing broader access to clean energy and financial benefits. The changes also include annual caps, introducing uncertainty for developers amid potential regulatory hurdles.
March 7, 2025
Environmental
Environmental
The Trump administration has dismantled the White House Council on Environmental Quality’s (CEQ) authority over the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)...
March 6, 2025
Environmental Justice
Environmental Justice
A recent cancer rate assessment has identified a 250-square-mile area along the San Jacinto River in Texas, including the San Jacinto River Waste Pits Superfund Site...
Rising energy demand, fueled by artificial intelligence, data centers, and electrification, has intensified debates over the future of U.S. energy policy.
The U.S. Supreme Court is reviewing a case that could establish the country’s first independent nuclear waste storage facility in West Texas, despite strong opposition from state
March 5, 2025
Environmental Justice
Environmental Justice
The U.S. State Department has ended its global air quality monitoring program, which used sensors at over 80 embassies and consulates to track pollution levels in countries...
In a 5-4 ruling, the U.S. Supreme Court sided with San Francisco, limiting the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) authority to enforce water quality regulations under...
March 4, 2025
Energy
Energy
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has lifted a freeze on the $7 billion Solar for All grant program, which was paused following an executive order by President Donald...
March 3, 2025
Urban & Development
Urban & Development
As hurricanes intensify and insurance rates soar, states across the U.S. are launching grant programs to help residents install stronger, storm-resistant roofs.
Between December 2024 and January 2025, major U.S. banks—including Bank of America, Citigroup, Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan Chase, Morgan Stanley, and Wells Fargo
February 27, 2025
Energy
Energy
The Trump administration has reversed a Biden-era pause on new liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports despite evidence that exporting natural gas raises domestic energy prices.
February 27, 2025
Environment & Climate Legislation
Environment & Climate Legislation
Former Senator Debbie Stabenow of Michigan, a longtime advocate for sustainable agriculture, retired in 2024 after years of pushing for climate-friendly policies in the farm bill.
March 27, 2025
Environmental Justice
Environmental Justice
The Trump administration’s decision to lay off 3,400 U.S. Forest Service employees—about 10% of the workforce—has exacerbated an already severe...
February 26, 2025
Human Health
Human Health
The Trump administration's decision to cap indirect costs on National Institutes of Health (NIH) research grants at 15% threatens funding for universities...
March 26, 2025
Climate
Climate
The Trump administration is considering revoking the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) “endangerment finding...