The latest news in energy and environmental politics & policy — must-know stories and candid insights from POLITICO’s energy team and journalists across our newsroom. All in just five minutes each morning.
Why Jared Huffman thinks Biden should do more t...
Global leaders met in Ottawa, Canada, this past week for U.N. talks aimed at significantly curtailing the world’s plastic pollution. POLITICO’s Jordan Wolman sat down with California Democrat Rep. Jared Huffman on the sidelines of the Ottawa talks to discuss the importance of reaching an ambitious deal, the deep domestic divisions and tricky global dynamics complicating the negotiations and why he isn't on board with the Biden administration's approach.
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Jordan Wolman is a sustainability reporter for POLITICO.
Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer.
Annie Rees is a senior audio producer-host at POLITICO.
Gloria Gonzalez is the deputy energy editor for POLITICO.
Matt Daily is the energy editor for POLITICO.
12 min
277
America’s solar industry is divided. Biden’s cl...
The U.S. solar industry is divided, and the split could significantly impact President Joe Biden’s climate agenda and America’s ongoing trade war with China. POLITICO’s Kelsey Tamborrino breaks down the domestic solar standoff and the president’s tricky balancing act as he races toward the 2024 election. Plus, the United Nations is drawing up new guidelines to help governments and companies access critical minerals in an environmentally and economically friendly way.
For more news on energy and the environment, subscribe to Power Switch, our free evening newsletter: https://www.politico.com/power-switch
And for even deeper coverage and analysis, read our Morning Energy newsletter by subscribing to POLITICO Pro: https://subscriber.politicopro.com/newsletter-archive/morning-energy
Kelsey Tamborrino is a reporter covering clean energy for POLITICO.
Catherine Morehouse is an energy reporter for POLITICO.
Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer.
Kara Tabor is an audio producer for POLITICO.
Annie Rees is a senior audio producer-host at POLITICO.
Gloria Gonzalez is the deputy energy editor for POLITICO.
Matt Daily is the energy editor for POLITICO.
8 min
278
Can Biden thread the political needle with his ...
The Biden administration finalized a highly-anticipated suite of regulations aimed at cracking down on pollution from coal-fired and new natural gas power plants – a major move in the president’s efforts to fight climate change. POLITICO’s Alex Guillén breaks down the importance of the latest climate rules along with the expected political and legal challenges. Plus, the Energy Department finalized a new program that’s expected to nearly halve the average time for federal permitting of new power lines.
For more news on energy and the environment, subscribe to Power Switch, our free evening newsletter: https://www.politico.com/power-switch
And for even deeper coverage and analysis, read our Morning Energy newsletter by subscribing to POLITICO Pro: https://subscriber.politicopro.com/newsletter-archive/morning-energy
Alex Guillén is an energy reporter for POLITICO Pro.
Catherine Morehouse is an energy reporter for POLITICO.
Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer.
Annie Rees is a senior audio producer-host at POLITICO.
Gloria Gonzalez is the deputy energy editor for POLITICO.
Matt Daily is the energy editor for POLITICO.
9 min
279
Why Biden’s solar import problem is flaring up ...
Domestic solar manufacturers are asking the Biden administration to investigate a record influx of cheap Chinese-linked solar panel components flowing into the United States – once again testing the president’s ability to balance his clean energy ambitions and trade goals. POLITICO’s Kelsey Tamborrino breaks down why domestic solar companies are taking this action and the administration’s response. Plus, the Interior Department took another step on Wednesday to help prop up the struggling offshore wind industry.
For more news on energy and the environment, subscribe to Power Switch, our free evening newsletter: https://www.politico.com/power-switch
And for even deeper coverage and analysis, read our Morning Energy newsletter by subscribing to POLITICO Pro: https://subscriber.politicopro.com/newsletter-archive/morning-energy
Kelsey Tamborrino is a reporter covering clean energy for POLITICO.
Catherine Morehouse is an energy reporter for POLITICO.
Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer.
Annie Rees is a senior audio producer-host at POLITICO.
Gloria Gonzalez is the deputy energy editor for POLITICO.
Matt Daily is the energy editor for POLITICO.
8 min
280
Can coal find new political champions amid indu...
For years now, coal’s role in power production has been dramatically declining, but the industry’s short-term outlook is also about to get worse. POLITICO’s Alex Guillén breaks down the different political and regulatory challenges facing the coal industry and whether it has the political might to recover. Plus, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission just took a critical step aimed at bringing new nuclear technologies to market faster.
For more news on energy and the environment, subscribe to Power Switch, our free evening newsletter: https://www.politico.com/power-switch
And for even deeper coverage and analysis, read our Morning Energy newsletter by subscribing to POLITICO Pro: https://subscriber.politicopro.com/newsletter-archive/morning-energy
Alex Guillén is an energy reporter for POLITICO Pro.
Catherine Morehouse is an energy reporter for POLITICO.
Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer.
Annie Rees is a senior audio producer-host at POLITICO.
Gloria Gonzalez is the deputy energy editor for POLITICO.
Matt Daily is the energy editor for POLITICO.
8 min
281
What California Senator Alex Padilla thinks abo...
POLITICO Energy host Annie Snider sits down with Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) to talk about how the United States is at a critical juncture when it comes to accessing clean, safe and affordable water. Padilla, who is the leading voice on water issues in the chamber, discusses the Biden administration’s latest regulations, low-income assistance, and the Colorado River water crisis.
For more news on energy and the environment, subscribe to Power Switch, our free evening newsletter: https://www.politico.com/power-switch
And for even deeper coverage and analysis, read our Morning Energy newsletter by subscribing to POLITICO Pro: https://subscriber.politicopro.com/newsletter-archive/morning-energy
Annie Snider covers water issues for POLITICO Pro.
Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer.
Annie Rees is a senior audio producer-host at POLITICO.
Kara Tabor is an audio producer for POLITICO.
Gloria Gonzalez is the deputy energy editor for POLITICO.
Matt Daily is the energy editor for POLITICO.
15 min
282
Why the end of Alaska’s Ambler mining road coul...
The Interior Department is preparing to reject a controversial mining road in the remote Alaskan wilderness – a decision that highlights how the administration is trying to balance its clean energy and conservation goals while not harming tribal communities. POLITICO contributor Adam Federman breaks down why the administration might reject the project and the stakes for the energy sector. Plus, the Biden administration is moving to reimpose oil sanctions on Venezuela.
For more news on energy and the environment, subscribe to Power Switch, our free evening newsletter: https://www.politico.com/power-switch
And for even deeper coverage and analysis, read our Morning Energy newsletter by subscribing to POLITICO Pro: https://subscriber.politicopro.com/newsletter-archive/morning-energy
Adam Federman is a contributor for POLITICO.
Catherine Morehouse is an energy reporter for POLITICO.
Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer.
Annie Rees is a senior audio producer-host at POLITICO.
Gloria Gonzalez is the deputy energy editor for POLITICO.
Matt Daily is the energy editor for POLITICO.
7 min
283
Why the World Bank’s climate mission is being s...
The World Bank, which begins its spring meetings today in Washington, is expected to play a key role in helping world governments fight climate change by giving them financing. But their efforts are facing geopolitical battles and key funding questions. POLITICO’s Zack Colman breaks down the bank’s obstacles and the climate stakes. Plus, the U.S. grid could support nearly 100 gigawatts of new power through relatively simple technology upgrades according to a new report released by the Department of Energy.
For more news on energy and the environment, subscribe to Power Switch, our free evening newsletter: https://www.politico.com/power-switch
And for even deeper coverage and analysis, read our Morning Energy newsletter by subscribing to POLITICO Pro: https://subscriber.politicopro.com/newsletter-archive/morning-energy
Zack Colman covers climate change for POLITICO.
Catherine Morehouse is an energy reporter for POLITICO.
Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer.
Kara Tabor is an audio producer for POLITICO.
Gloria Gonzalez is the deputy energy editor for POLITICO.
Matt Daily is the energy editor for POLITICO.
8 min
284
How the Israel-Iran conflict could drive oil pr...
Iran’s attack on Israel over the weekend has heightened tensions yet again in the Middle East, putting the global oil market on edge. POLITICO’s Matt Daily breaks down how the Israel-Iran conflict could increase world oil prices. Plus, the Biden administration has rejected industry arguments that called for a weakened air pollution rule.
For more news on energy and the environment, subscribe to Power Switch, our free evening newsletter: https://www.politico.com/power-switch
And for even deeper coverage and analysis, read our Morning Energy newsletter by subscribing to POLITICO Pro: https://subscriber.politicopro.com/newsletter-archive/morning-energy
Catherine Morehouse is an energy reporter for POLITICO.
Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer.
Annie Rees is a senior audio producer-host at POLITICO.
Gloria Gonzalez is the deputy energy editor for POLITICO.
Matt Daily is the energy editor for POLITICO.
6 min
285
Biden’s ongoing oil dilemma
The Biden administration approved another massive oil project in Texas, drawing criticism from environmental groups and highlighting the administration’s tricky balancing act on fossil fuel production. POLITICO’s James Bikales breaks down Biden’s ongoing oil conundrum. Plus, the Biden administration is urging a federal court to reconsider its Line 5 shutdown order.
For more news on energy and the environment, subscribe to Power Switch, our free evening newsletter: https://www.politico.com/power-switch
And for even deeper coverage and analysis, read our Morning Energy newsletter by subscribing to POLITICO Pro: https://subscriber.politicopro.com/newsletter-archive/morning-energy
James Bikales is the host of Morning Energy and a reporter for POLITICO.
Catherine Morehouse is an energy reporter for POLITICO.
Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer.
Annie Rees is a senior audio producer-host at POLITICO.
Gloria Gonzalez is the deputy energy editor for POLITICO.
Matt Daily is the energy editor for POLITICO.
7 min
286
Inside Biden’s new effort to clean up America’s...
The Biden administration has finalized the first national standard to limit dangerous “forever chemicals” in the nation’s drinking water – the most significant upgrade to the system in over three decades. But the regulation will come with a hefty price tag and potential legal challenges. POLITICO’s Annie Snider breaks down the details, importance and steep cost of this rule. Plus, the backlog of clean energy resources trying to connect to the power grid jumped again in 2023.
Annie Snider covers water issues for POLITICO Pro.
Catherine Morehouse is an energy reporter for POLITICO.
Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer.
Annie Rees is a senior audio producer-host at POLITICO.
Gloria Gonzalez is the deputy energy editor for POLITICO.
Matt Daily is the energy editor for POLITICO.
9 min
287
Why Trump’s shadow is hanging over global plast...
Former President Donald Trump's potential return to the White House hangs over the upcoming United Nations negotiations aimed at securing a global plastics treaty agreement by the end of the year. POLITICO’s Jordan Wolman breaks down the importance of reaching a deal and how Trump is influencing the talks. Plus, U.S. coal exports are projected to decrease this year due to the deadly collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore.
For more news on energy and the environment, subscribe to Power Switch, our free evening newsletter: https://www.politico.com/power-switch
And for even deeper coverage and analysis, read our Morning Energy newsletter by subscribing to POLITICO Pro: https://subscriber.politicopro.com/newsletter-archive/morning-energy
Jordan Wolman is a sustainability reporter for POLITICO.
Catherine Morehouse is an energy reporter for POLITICO.
Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer.
Annie Rees is a senior audio producer-host at POLITICO.
Gloria Gonzalez is the deputy energy editor for POLITICO.
Matt Daily is the energy editor for POLITICO.
8 min
288
DOE is spending its loan money — slowly
The Energy Department’s Loan Programs Office has only spent a fraction of the $200 billion pot it could use to fund ambitious new energy projects. POLITICO’s Kelsey Tamborrino breaks down why DOE’s LPO is moving slowly and what would happen to the remaining money under a second potential Donald Trump presidency. Plus, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore says the Port of Baltimore could be fully functional by the end of May.
For more news on energy and the environment, subscribe to Power Switch, our free evening newsletter: https://www.politico.com/power-switch
And for even deeper coverage and analysis, read our Morning Energy newsletter by subscribing to POLITICO Pro: https://subscriber.politicopro.com/newsletter-archive/morning-energy
Kelsey Tamborrino is a reporter covering clean energy for POLITICO.
Catherine Morehouse is an energy reporter for POLITICO.
Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer.
Annie Rees is a senior audio producer-host at POLITICO.
Gloria Gonzalez is the deputy energy editor for POLITICO.
Matt Daily is the energy editor for POLITICO.
9 min
289
The rising threats to America’s power grid
The U.S. power grid is facing growing domestic and international threats, and U.S. regulators say the risks are likely to climb as the 2024 election season ramps up. POLITICO’s Catherine Morehouse breaks down the latest warning from the nation's grid reliability authority. Plus, the 4.8 magnitude earthquake that hit parts of the East Coast on Friday seemingly did not damage any major power grid infrastructure.
For more news on energy and the environment, subscribe to Power Switch, our free evening newsletter: https://www.politico.com/power-switch
And for even deeper coverage and analysis, read our Morning Energy newsletter by subscribing to POLITICO Pro: https://subscriber.politicopro.com/newsletter-archive/morning-energy
Catherine Morehouse is an energy reporter for POLITICO.
Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer.
Annie Rees is a senior audio producer-host at POLITICO.
Gloria Gonzalez is the deputy energy editor for POLITICO.
Matt Daily is the energy editor for POLITICO.
9 min
290
DOE’s about-face on power transformers
The Energy Department is dramatically walking back new energy efficiency standards for distribution transformers – a move that highlights how the Biden administration is trying to balance its climate agenda and concerns from lawmakers, industry groups, and pro-union allies in an election year. POLITICO’s James Bikales breaks down why DOE is scaling down the rule and how Biden’s climate agenda is walking a tightrope. Plus, the European Union says carbon dioxide emissions from power plants and industrial sites dropped a record 15.5 percent last year.
For more news on energy and the environment, subscribe to Power Switch, our free evening newsletter: https://www.politico.com/power-switch
And for even deeper coverage and analysis, read our Morning Energy newsletter by subscribing to POLITICO Pro: https://subscriber.politicopro.com/newsletter-archive/morning-energy
Catherine Morehouse is an energy reporter for POLITICO.
James Bikales is the host of Morning Energy and a reporter for POLITICO.
Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer.
Annie Rees is a senior audio producer-host at POLITICO.
Gloria Gonzalez is the deputy energy editor for POLITICO.
Matt Daily is the energy editor for POLITICO.
9 min
291
Biden’s climate ambitions are clashing with his...
The Export-Import Bank of the United States is considering pouring billions of dollars into two massive foreign gas projects, which could put the independent federal agency at odds with the Biden administration’s climate agenda and pledge to transition off fossil fuels. POLITICO’s Zack Colman breaks down how Biden officials are responding and the awkward reality they face with independent federal agencies. Plus, a second federal judge has ruled that the Transportation Department overstepped when it issued a rule requiring states to measure on-road greenhouse gas emissions and set reduction targets.
For more news on energy and the environment, subscribe to Power Switch, our free evening newsletter: https://www.politico.com/power-switch
And for even deeper coverage and analysis, read our Morning Energy newsletter by subscribing to POLITICO Pro: https://subscriber.politicopro.com/newsletter-archive/morning-energy
Catherine Morehouse is an energy reporter for POLITICO.
Zack Colman covers climate change for POLITICO.
Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer.
Annie Rees is a senior audio producer-host at POLITICO.
Gloria Gonzalez is the deputy energy editor for POLITICO.
Matt Daily is the energy editor for POLITICO.
9 min
292
Why activists hate Biden’s plan to restart a Mi...
The Biden administration is pushing to revive a shuttered nuclear power plant in Michigan, but environmental justice and anti-nuclear activists are rejecting the president’s pitch. POLITICO’s Catherine Morehouse and Kelsey Tamborrino break down the tricky politics of restarting the Palisades nuclear plant. Plus, the Biden administration is handing out $4 billion to help spur domestic manufacturing of clean energy components and cut industrial emissions.
For more news on energy and the environment, subscribe to Power Switch, our free evening newsletter: https://www.politico.com/power-switch
And for even deeper coverage and analysis, read our Morning Energy newsletter by subscribing to POLITICO Pro: https://subscriber.politicopro.com/newsletter-archive/morning-energy
Catherine Morehouse is an energy reporter for POLITICO.
Kelsey Tamborrino is a reporter covering clean energy for POLITICO.
Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer.
Annie Rees is a senior audio producer-host at POLITICO.
Gloria Gonzalez is the deputy energy editor for POLITICO.
Matt Daily is the energy editor for POLITICO.
9 min
293
Is America’s power grid ready for the tech boom?
Electricity demand in the United States is projected to skyrocket over the next decade, partly because of the rising power needs of data centers and electric vehicles. That poses big challenges for the power grid. Today, host Catherine Morehouse sits down with Rob Gramlich, founder and president of consulting firm Grid Strategies, to discuss whether the grid can handle this surge in power demand — and what happens if it can’t.
For more news on energy and the environment, subscribe to Power Switch, our free evening newsletter: https://www.politico.com/power-switch
And for even deeper coverage and analysis, read our Morning Energy newsletter by subscribing to POLITICO Pro: https://subscriber.politicopro.com/newsletter-archive/morning-energy
Catherine Morehouse is an energy reporter for POLITICO.
Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer.
Annie Rees is a senior audio producer-host at POLITICO.
15 min
294
Biden’s methane leak crackdown continues
The Biden administration issued a final rule this week that aims to curb methane leaks from oil and gas drilling on federal and tribal lands. POLITICO’s Alex Guillén breaks down the details, impact and pushback to this rule. Plus, China says an expansive list of U.S. subsidies for clean energy production under the Inflation Reduction Act is a violation of World Trade Organization rules.
For more news on energy and the environment, subscribe to Power Switch, our free evening newsletter: https://www.politico.com/power-switch
And for even deeper coverage and analysis, read our Morning Energy newsletter by subscribing to POLITICO Pro: https://subscriber.politicopro.com/newsletter-archive/morning-energy
Josh Siegel is an energy reporter for POLITICO.
Alex Guillén is an energy reporter for POLITICO Pro.
Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer.
Annie Rees is a senior audio producer-host at POLITICO.
Gloria Gonzalez is the deputy energy editor for POLITICO.
Matt Daily is the energy editor for POLITICO.
7 min
295
Lawmakers race to close a permitting deal befor...
Congressional lawmakers are once again negotiating a permitting deal, but time is running out before key negotiators depart from Congress or their respective committees at the end of 2024. POLITICO’s Josh Siegel breaks down the latest in the permitting talks and the challenges that remain. Plus, the Biden administration plans to issue a loan guarantee of up to $1.52 billion to restart a shuttered U.S. nuclear plant for the first time.
For more news on energy and the environment, subscribe to Power Switch, our free evening newsletter: https://www.politico.com/power-switch
And for even deeper coverage and analysis, read our Morning Energy newsletter by subscribing to POLITICO Pro: https://subscriber.politicopro.com/newsletter-archive/morning-energy
Josh Siegel is an energy reporter for POLITICO.
Catherine Morehouse is an energy reporter for POLITICO.
Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer.
Annie Rees is a senior audio producer-host at POLITICO.
Gloria Gonzalez is the deputy energy editor for POLITICO.
Matt Daily is the energy editor for POLITICO.
9 min
296
Why the Baltimore bridge collapse could wreak h...
The collapse of Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge is disrupting coal exports and will likely have a significant impact on the auto sector. POLITICO’s James Bikales and Alex Guillén break down the major energy impacts of the bridge collapse. Plus, the Interior Department approved the seventh commercial-scale offshore wind project under President Joe Biden.
For more news on energy and the environment, subscribe to Power Switch, our free evening newsletter: https://www.politico.com/power-switch
And for even deeper coverage and analysis, read our Morning Energy newsletter by subscribing to POLITICO Pro: https://subscriber.politicopro.com/newsletter-archive/morning-energy
Josh Siegel is an energy reporter for POLITICO.
James Bikales is the host of Morning Energy and a reporter for POLITICO.
Alex Guillén is an energy reporter for POLITICO Pro.
Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer.
Kara Tabor is an audio producer for POLITICO.
Gloria Gonzalez is the deputy energy editor for POLITICO.
Matt Daily is the energy editor for POLITICO.
6 min
297
Oil execs’ 2024 White House dilemma
Oil and gas executives don’t like President Joe Biden’s regulatory efforts to rein in fossil fuels, but they’re also not eager for a second Trump administration. POLITICO’s Ben Lefebvre details what industry executives told him at CERAWeek about Biden and Trump heading into the 2024 election. Plus, House Speaker Mike Johnson has selected Rep. John Moolenaar, a Michigan Republican, to serve as the next chair of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party.
For more news on energy and the environment, subscribe to Power Switch, our free evening newsletter: https://www.politico.com/power-switch
And for even deeper coverage and analysis, read our Morning Energy newsletter by subscribing to POLITICO Pro: https://subscriber.politicopro.com/newsletter-archive/morning-energy
Josh Siegel is an energy reporter for POLITICO.
Ben Lefebvre is an energy reporter for POLITICO.
Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer.
Annie Rees is a senior audio producer-host at POLITICO.
Gloria Gonzalez is the deputy energy editor for POLITICO.
Matt Daily is the energy editor for POLITICO.
8 min
298
Garret Graves talks permitting, IRA and Republi...
Today, POLITICO Energy host Josh Siegel sits down with Rep. Garret Graves (R-La), one of the most influential lawmakers on energy and climate issues in the Republican party. They discuss GOP views on climate, the role of Donald Trump as party leader, Republican attacks on the Inflation Reduction Act, and what Graves would do in permitting negotiations with Democrats.
For more news on energy and the environment, subscribe to Power Switch, our free evening newsletter: https://www.politico.com/power-switch
And for even deeper coverage and analysis, read our Morning Energy newsletter by subscribing to POLITICO Pro: https://subscriber.politicopro.com/newsletter-archive/morning-energy
Josh Siegel is an energy reporter for POLITICO.
Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer.
Annie Rees is a senior audio producer-host at POLITICO.
Gloria Gonzalez is the deputy energy editor for POLITICO.
Matt Daily is the energy editor for POLITICO.
18 min
299
FERC's big day on Capitol Hill
President Joe Biden’s three FERC nominees appear to face a relatively smooth path through the Senate following their highly anticipated confirmation hearing on Thursday. POLITICO’s Catherine Morehouse breaks down the biggest takeaways. Plus, as the confirmation hearing was underway, FERC had an open meeting where it upheld critical components of its landmark transmission rule and launched a probe into controversial pipeline company practices.
7 min
300
The EPA's tailpipe pollution rule, explained
The EPA released a major new rule Wednesday designed to ratchet down tailpipe emissions from cars and trucks, one of President Biden’s most ambitious actions to combat climate change. POLITICO’s Alex Guillén breaks down what's in the rule and the potential political and legal fallout. Plus, Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm told House lawmakers that the Energy Department's study on whether new liquefied natural gas exports are in the national interest will likely drop at the end of the year.