SEC climate disclosure rules ignore big chunk of emissions

EMISSIONS: The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission approves new rules requiring public companies to disclose greenhouse gas emissions and climate risks, but will exclude emissions that come from the use of their products. (Grist)

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ALSO: Ten states immediately launch a lawsuit challenging the new rule, with opposition from business groups likely to follow. (The Hill)

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CLIMATE:

• Former President Trump’s return to the White House could lead to an additional 4 billion tons of carbon emissions compared to a second term for President Biden, an analysis finds. (Carbon Brief)
• Current scientific models may not fully capture the risks flooding poses to 32 coastal U.S. cities, a new study suggests, noting tide gauges are often miles from vulnerable population centers. (New York Times)

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COAL: Several states consider giving regulators more power to step in when coal plants are slated for retirement, with sponsors of legislation contending coal is necessary as renewables expand and electric rates rise. (E&E News)

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GRID: The Midcontinent Independent System Operator proposes a second round of transmission upgrades across the Midwest costing as much as $23 billion, but advocates question whether the plan sufficiently anticipates future clean energy needs. (Energy News Network)

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OIL & GAS: Mexico stands to become a major player in the global liquified natural gas market, but the Biden administration’s pause on permitting LNG export facilities has delayed that prospect and given climate activists more time to fight back. (Inside Climate News)

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POLLUTION:

• Business groups and 25 states launch legal challenges to the Biden administration’s new soot pollution rules, saying they could raise costs and harm businesses. (Associated Press)
• The dwindling population of a historic Alabama community founded by former enslaved people fights the two-mile expansion of a rail line in a neighborhood already besieged by industrial pollution. (Next City/Reckon)

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EFFICIENCY:

• The U.S. Department of Energy announces $90 million for states and municipalities to develop and implement building codes with stronger efficiency standards. (Utility Dive)
• An advocacy group highlights vehicles, appliances and building codes as opportunities to advance energy efficiency this year. (Utility Dive)

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GRID: A report predicts energy-intensive semiconductor manufacturing facilities planned for Arizona and Idaho could strain power grids and increase demand for fossil fuel-generated electricity. (Verge)

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CARBON CAPTURE: South Dakota lawmakers pass three bills regulating carbon pipelines, but remain divided on whether the new rules — praised by the ethanol industry — go far enough to protect landowners. (South Dakota Searchlight)

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