FERC approves Transco Southeast Supply Enhancement Project
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has approved Transco’s Southeast Supply Enhancement Project, clearing the way for expanded natural gas pipeline capacity serving Virginia and North Carolina as utilities work to meet growing demand.
South Dakota governor seeks funding to study nuclear energy
South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden, a Republican, is requesting $300,000 in state funding to study the feasibility of nuclear power as a solution for rising electricity demand across the state.
Mississippi lawmakers advance nuclear power incentives
Mississippi legislators have introduced proposed legislation aimed at incentivizing nuclear energy development, signaling growing interest among states in nuclear power as a long-term baseload option.
Texas oil and gas emissions spike during Winter Storm Fern
Texas oil and gas operators estimate they released 1.6 million pounds of regulated pollutants over four days during Winter Storm Fern. State regulators cited an “enforcement discretion” policy that allows officials to waive penalties during emergency conditions.
Chevron and Exxon express caution on Venezuela investments
During recent earnings calls, the CEOs of Chevron and Exxon Mobil reiterated skepticism about committing new capital to Venezuela, citing political risk and uncertainty despite easing sanctions.
Offshore drilling expansion could increase spill risk
An analysis by the Center for Biological Diversity estimates the Trump administration’s offshore drilling expansion plan could result in more than 4,000 oil spills, raising environmental and regulatory concerns.
World Energy Brief
Elon Musk warns of China’s energy expansion
Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, warned that China’s electricity generation capacity could exceed three times U.S. output by 2026 or 2027, citing rapid infrastructure expansion.
Japan retrieves rare earth minerals from deep sea
Japan announced it has successfully drilled and recovered deep-sea sediment containing rare earth minerals near a remote island, part of its effort to reduce reliance on China for critical minerals.
Ukraine restores power after regional grid failure
Ukraine’s power grid suffered widespread outages Saturday after a technical malfunction disrupted transmission lines linking Moldova, Romania, and Ukraine. Power was restored nationwide by Saturday evening, according to Energy Minister Denys Shmygal.