Retired Coal Plant Infrastructure Accelerates Power Grid Expansion for AI Data Centers
Energy companies are repurposing closed coal plant grid connections to fast-track new power generation projects, bypassing typical two-year interconnection delays. The strategy supports surging electricity demand from AI operations while enabling transitions to natural gas, renewables, and emerging nuclear technologies.
Former Microsoft Employees Launch Campaign Against Tech Giant's Fossil Fuel Partnerships
Two former Microsoft sustainability and AI professionals have established the Enabled Emissions Campaign to challenge the company's technology partnerships with oil and gas companies. The campaign seeks accountability for emissions increases resulting from AI and cloud services that boost fossil fuel production efficiency.
California Energy Regulators Postpone Oil Profit Penalty Implementation Until 2030
The California Energy Commission delayed enforcement of controversial oil company profit penalties following announcements of two major refinery closures. The decision reflects growing tensions between climate goals and fuel supply security concerns.
Federal Government Withdraws $679 Million in Offshore Wind Funding Across Multiple States
The Transportation Department has rescinded funding for offshore wind projects in eleven states, redirecting resources toward traditional maritime infrastructure. The move represents another significant policy shift affecting the renewable energy sector.
Tesla European Market Share Declines as Sales Drop 40% Despite Growing EV Demand
Tesla experienced a significant 40% sales decline in EU markets during July while overall electric vehicle sales surged 39%. Chinese competitor BYD continued expanding market presence, capturing larger market share than Tesla.
Oregon Proposes Mandatory Road Usage Fees for Electric Vehicle Owners to Address Transportation Funding Gap
Oregon is considering implementing a pay-per-mile fee system for electric vehicle drivers starting in 2027 to compensate for declining gasoline tax revenues. The proposal would charge approximately 2.3 cents per mile or offer an annual flat fee option.
Hybrid Vehicle Sales Surge Provides Competitive Advantage Against Pure Electric Vehicle Manufacturers
Hybrid electric vehicle sales increased 52% in Europe and nearly 20% in the US during July, while pure battery electric vehicle sales remained flat. This trend benefits manufacturers offering diverse powertrain options over pure-EV companies.
Battery Manufacturing Surplus Threatens US Industrial Strategy as EV Incentives Eliminated
The elimination of federal EV tax credits has created a significant oversupply situation in the US battery manufacturing sector. Analysts project a 56% reduction in battery deployment by 2030 compared to pre-policy change expectations.
Ford-SK Battery Plant Workers Vote on Unionization as EV Manufacturing Scales
Employees at Kentucky's $6 billion BlueOval SK battery manufacturing facility are voting on union representation as production begins for Ford's electric vehicle lineup. The outcome could influence labor relations across the expanding domestic EV battery supply chain.