Curtailing Solar Tax Incentives May Spell Disaster for Rooftop Solar Systems
In the latest energy news across the Midwest, several developments are shaping the region's energy landscape.
Michigan
Michigan Public Service Commission (PSC) has ordered the state's two largest utilities to implement various measures to enhance grid reliability, following a third-party audit. The PSC is also seeking more information on proposed transmission lines that have faced opposition from landowners. Meanwhile, the potential elimination of federal clean energy tax credits could significantly impact the rooftop solar industry in Michigan, potentially doubling the time for customers to recoup their costs and posing a threat to local businesses.
Ohio
The Ohio Senate's budget bill aims to end tax breaks for large new data centers, which could result in a loss of $127 million in tax revenue this year. Ohio regulators are also examining payments made by FirstEnergy during the House Bill 6 power plant bailout scandal, to determine if ratepayer money was used.
On a positive note, Invenergy has started construction on a 240 MW solar project outside Columbus, with an expected completion date in 2027. Furthermore, a new 4.7 MW solar project in northwestern Illinois is part of the state's community solar and adjustable block grant program.
New Mexico, Minnesota, and Iowa
Sen. Martin Heinrich of New Mexico discussed Democrats' push to preserve clean energy incentives in the "Big Beautiful Bill" during a live event. In Minnesota, a solar company has sued Google for defamation, seeking up to $210 million in damages, after an AI overview falsely claimed that the company was a defendant in a state lawsuit over charging improper fees to customers. However, there are no search results identifying a Minnesota solar company suing Google for defamation over an AI summary claiming it was a defense point in a state criminal case about improper charges to customers.
In Iowa, Governor Kim Reynolds' veto of an eminent domain bill has heightened tensions among Republicans over carbon pipelines, as some say it could reduce their support for her agenda.
Community Efforts
A Cleveland business cooperative offers a new six-week solar installation course, helping participants determine new site locations and approach property owners about projects. Small-business owners and community leaders from across the Midwest and country are urging Senate lawmakers to preserve clean energy tax credits that have spurred investments and job creation in their regions.
Policy Threats
Republicans' "Big Beautiful Bill" poses a risk to hundreds of gigawatts of planned clean energy projects by threatening to dismantle key tax credits. The biofuel industry, meanwhile, is facing criticism due to its impacts on land for food crops, emissions, and water scarcity, according to a new report.
Stay tuned for more updates on these and other energy developments across the Midwest.
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