Energy news in brief

** A federal judge has dismissed two of the Trump administration’s key arguments against California’s cap-and-trade agreement with Quebec.

** A federal nuclear regulator approves a nuclear waste storage facility near Carlsbad, New Mexico, finding a minimal impact on the environment despite concerns raised by opponents.

** A Wyoming bill requiring oil, gas, coal, and uranium producers to pay taxes on a monthly basis cleared the legislature.

** A new report from a clean energy advocacy group finds that Colorado should “modernize” its gas tax to raise money for transportation infrastructure projects.

** Local officials in northeastern Nebraska hear plans for an 8.5 MW solar project that developers say won’t disrupt the surrounding area.

** The U.S. Senate confirms a third Republican to join one Democrat on the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, breaking with bipartisan norms as the board faces criticism for aiding fossil fuels in key decisions. 

** Thomas Kent has been named president and chief executive officer of Nebraska Public Power District, after approval Thursday by the NPPD Board of Directors. Kent currently is NPPD’s executive vice president and chief operating officer. He replaces Pat Pope, who announced in February he was stepping down at the end of April and will focus on e-connectivity and future generation strategies for NPPD as a special assistant to the CEO.

**