** US forces have seized another tanker in the Caribbean Sea, officials say, as the Trump administration continues its efforts to control exports of Venezuelan oil. The tanker, the Olina, is on multiple countries’ sanctions lists and the fifth vessel to be seized by the US in recent weeks.
** Newly released data shows that solar arrays provided more power to Texas’ standalone grid in 2025 than coal-fired power plants, marking the first time that has happened.
** The two convicted felons in the Ohio utility bribery scandal ask the U.S. Supreme Court to reverse their convictions, arguing that their actions on behalf of FirstEnergy in exchange for millions of dollars was protected speech.
** General Motors will take on $6 billion in costs for unused electric vehicle investments as a result of production changes it made last year.
** Ameren receives public support for a proposed 250 MW solar project outside its Missouri nuclear plant.
** Iowa lawmakers again plan to take up legislation to resolve landowner concerns around the use of eminent domain for carbon pipelines after years of gridlock on the issue.
** Two power companies ask North Dakota regulators to determine that some local ordinances along a proposed 92-mile power line are overly restrictive and threaten the viability of the project.
World
** Russia’s latest strikes on Ukraine’s energy facilities have left hundreds of thousands without power and heating during a cold winter, as Kyiv and Washington continue to negotiate a framework for peace.
** Exxon Mobil and ConocoPhillips are among the Texas-based oil companies that appear decidedly unenthusiastic about participating in the Venezuelan oil market because of the country’s political instability and the availability of other, less risky investment opportunities.
** Chevron appears to be well-positioned to operate in Venezuela because it continued to operate as a minority partner in the country even after former President Hugo Chávez nationalized the industry in 2007.
** Experts say Venezuelan oil could boost Texas refineries, while oil producers may be more hesitant to jump into the unstable country’s market.