Maryland is suing the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for failing to act on a petition requiring power plants in five upwind states, including Indiana, to reduce pollution.
The department said in a new report that the closure of many plants that once formed the backbone of the grid has raised the risk that consumers might not have reliable electricity.
Critics say the legislation will discourage the use of residential solar and hamper the solar industry in Indiana. But supporters say it will help protect consumers who don't have solar.
Jim Atterholt, a former lawmaker, most recently served as chief of staff to former Gov. Mike Pence. He is returning to the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission, where he previously served as chairman.
Critics say the bill would effectively wipe out a key financial incentive for homeowners and businesses to install rooftop solar systems and windmills.
As IPL ditches coal in favor of natural gas at power plants in Indianapolis and Martinsville, the utility wants to close their coal ash pits, cover the tops with plastic membranes, and top them off with nearly three feet of sand and soil.
Gov. Mike Pence's chief of staff, who will lose his position when Pence leaves office on Monday, is seeking to return to the five-member state commission that oversees utilities.
In the latest move by an Indiana utility to reduce its use of coal, the Evansville-based utility plans to build a solar farm and substantially increase the use of natural gas as a fuel source.
RSS
Back to Top