Insights from our Editorial Team

  • Obama administration has plan
    Feb 06, 2012 | Ken Silverstein

    The headwinds that are keeping offshore wind production at bay are easing up somewhat. It’s all because the Obama administration has finished an environmental assessment that is giving de facto approval to development in some areas. But attracting financing is proving to be a harder achievement.

  • But Lighting up in China
    Feb 05, 2012 | Ken Silverstein

    Some coal plants here are going dark but overseas they are lighting up. Akron, Ohio-based FirstEnergy’s planned closure of six coal-fired units is expected to start a trend -- one that will see the oldest and dirtiest such facilities laid to rest.

    Comments: 5
  • Risk of over-exposure to Radiation Small
    Feb 02, 2012 | Ken Silverstein

    Despite a tumultuous year, the nuclear energy sector says that it is well-prepared for the future and can withstand whatever Mother Nature throws at it. That’s also what regulators are saying, noting that if an accident were to occur and if proper steps are taken then the risk of dying from exposure to radiation is remote. 

    Comments: 2
  • Feb 01, 2012 | Bill Opalka

    Would competition make for better, and better siting, of wind and solar projects on the vast expanses of federal lands in the West? The Obama administration, which has made opening of public lands for renewable energy development a priority, wants to find out.

  • Blue Ribbon panel gives suggestions
    Jan 31, 2012 | Ken Silverstein

    If Americans think Congress is at at impasse now, just wait until lawmakers return to tackling the disposal of nuclear waste. That’s pretty much what a commission appointed by President Obama has said.

    Comments: 5
  • Jan 30, 2012 | Ken Silverstein

    President Obama is saying that his administration will open up more than three-quarters of the potential offshore oil and gas resources to development, prompting friends and foes alike to accuse him of having political motives.

    Comments: 2
  • How Green Energy is Working There
    Jan 29, 2012 | Matt Baker

    Renewable energy standards introduce diversity by lowering market barriers and creating an opening for renewable technologies that have different attributes and risk profiles than traditional fuels. Colorado's experience shows that this approach has led to impressive results.

    Comments: 1
  • Odds are tough in an election year
    Jan 26, 2012 | Rosy Lum

    In his 2012 State of the Union address, President Obama announced his intention to sign an executive order to cut through “red tape” that hinders infrastructure construction.

    Comments: 2
  • Jan 25, 2012 | Ken Silverstein

    One of the most pronounced themes to emerge from President Obama’s State of the Union address is his dedication to shale gas that he says is this country’s newfound fortune. So why the disdain from oil and gas producers?

    Comments: 6
  • Issue tied to presidential outcome
    Jan 24, 2012 | Ken Silverstein

    Two competing forces with regard to how coal ash is regulated are headed for a collision. Environmentalist groups have just said that they would sue the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to force prompt action while U.S. lawmakers from coal-producing states are working to head off those attempts. The presidential election will help determine the outcome.

    Comments: 3