For 20 years, RGGI has ‘weathered the political winds’

EMISSIONS: The Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative offers a model of successful state-led action on decarbonization, and is considering ways to expand participation as President-elect Trump pledges to roll back federal climate policies. (Energy News Network)

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ALSO: In its push to go fossil fuel-free by 2050, Harvard University has more than tripled its sustainability fund to $37 million and entered a new renewable energy partnership with other Boston-area institutions. (Inside Climate News)

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TRANSMISSION: An $11 billion project intended to bring 3.8 GW of renewable energy to New York City from the upstate area has been canceled with no explanation. (RTO Insider, subscription)

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ELECTRIC VEHICLES:

• Several Maine school districts experience ongoing problems with electric school buses supplied by a Canadian company, including stalling and parts recalls, that are raising safety concerns. (Kennebec Journal, subscription)
• Despite rumors swirling online, New Jersey’s clean truck rule will not prevent the sale of gas-powered RVs in the state. (New Jersey 101.5)

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WIND:

• A federal agency identifies environmental measures it will likely take in a group of six offshore wind lease areas off New York, pushing ahead despite Trump’s claims he will stop offshore wind development. (Maritime Executive)
• Further development of land-based wind resources in western Massachusetts, home to two existing wind farms, is “extremely unlikely,” say renewable energy experts. (Berkshire Eagle)

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GRID: Maryland launches a $15 million grant program aimed at strengthening the state’s “battered” grid and preparing the system to better accommodate clean energy resources. (Utility Dive)

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SOLAR: Massachusetts utilities regulators issue two orders that will allow more small solar developments to use net metering and make it easier for multifamily buildings to take advantage of the program. (Fall River Reporter)

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BATTERIES:

• The University of Maryland and the University of Rhode Island are among a national consortium working on how to develop long-lasting batteries using sodium, a more abundant element than the lithium that is widely used today. (Maryland Today)
• Massachusetts’ attorney general strikes down a town bylaw that attempted to put stringent restrictions on the development of battery storage facilities. (Daily Hampshire Gazette)
• Residents of a Connecticut town object to plans for a nearly 5 MW battery storage development, citing fears of a possible fire. (Greenwich Time)

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AFFORDABILITY: A new report finds that 100,000 Maine households have trouble paying their energy bills, in part because of competitive suppliers charging more than public utilities. (Maine Morning Star)

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