** Amazon seeks a regulatory exemption for its plan to add 250 diesel-powered emergency generators at a large planned Minnesota data center, drawing criticism from environmental groups and state officials. ** North Dakota lawmakers vote down six bills that sought to place restrictions on and eliminate tax exemptions for carbon pipeline developments. ** U-Line Corporation, a manufacturer of refrigeration …
February 2025 archive
Missouri legislator wants higher taxes on farmland used for solar projects
A legislator in Missouri has proposed tripling the tax assessment on farmland that is leased for wind and solar projects. ““My purpose is not to attack farmers, also, but when you repurpose your land for another purpose outside of agriculture, I think you should pay your fair share in that sense,” said Rep. Danny …
Increased drilling in Oklahoma’s Granite Wash
Oklahoma’s Granite Wash oil and gas play was one of two plays in the U.S. last week that recorded an increase in drilling activity. According to the latest rig count provided by the Baker Hughes Co., the Granite Wash count grew by one to a total of 8 rigs. The other energy play that …
Bill to amend Oklahoma’s Energy Discrimination Act to be considered by House Committee
A move to amend Oklahoma’s 3-year old Energy Discrimination Elimination Act, the one suspended last year by an Oklahoma County District judge’s order, goes before a state House committee on Wednesday. Rep. Nick Archer, Elk City, filed HB2043 which focuses on the contract payments that state agencies have with companies. The bill, if approved, would …
Water-funding bill wins approval in senate committee
Sen. David Bullard, R-Durant, has secured initial approval for legislation to appropriate $500 million for local water and wastewater infrastructure projects. Last week, the Senate Energy Committee unanimously approved Bullard’s Senate Bill 92. This bill would make a one-time appropriation to the Oklahoma Water Resources Board so the agency can offer low-interest loans so communities …
GRDA wants bonding increase from legislature
The Grand River Dam Authority is going to the state legislature wanting approval for a $1.6 billion increase in bonding capacity so it can build two new natural gas units and refurbish a third. As the state capitol website NonDoc reported this week, the request for legislative support is outlined in House Bill 1422 and …
Public hearing on Evergy’s plans for 2 gas plants and a solar farm
The Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC) will hold a virtual public hearing on March 5 at 6 p.m. to inform Evergy Kansas customers about three proposed energy projects: two gas-fired power plants and a solar facility. One gas plant is planned near Evergy’s Viola Substation in Sumner County, the other near Hutchinson in Reno County, while the …
Greenpeace counter-sues Energy Transfer over 2016 Dakota Access protests
Remember those violent 2016 protests by Indian tribes and environmentalists against the Dakota Access pipeline? After pipeline owner, Energy Transfer sued Greenpeace for $300 million accusing it over its role in organizing the protests, Greenpeace recently countered sued in Europe. The Associated Press recently reported Greenpeace filed an anti-intimidation case which is considered a …
Mitchell talks energy with Jerry Bohnen—the ROFR debate is still with us
We warned you! The ROFR/NOT a ROFR issue heats up big time as Rep. Trey Caldwell disputes former Corporation Commissioner Jim Roth’s contention that Caldwell’s transmission bill is a ROFR. It’s in the weeds but we break it down for you (and why consumers and media need to pay attention) in this special edition …
Attack on Russian oil pipeline sent prices up Monday
Despite Monday being a federal holiday in the states, crude oil prices rose in trading after an attack on an oil pipeline pumping station in the Caspian Sea interrupted flows of oil from Kazakhstan. Western firms including Chevron and Exxon Mobil were among those using the line. The attack came a day before U.S. …
