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Energy & the West

In the shadow of wind and solar, geothermal energy gets a fresh look

New technologies and spiking power demand are drawing attention to the Ring of Fire beneath us.Continue readingIn the shadow of wind and solar, geothermal energy gets a fresh look

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Energy & the West

Transmission, transmission, transmission

What it takes to put renewable power on the West’s electrical grids.Continue readingTransmission, transmission, transmission

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Energy & the West Up close

Weighing the consequences of losing carbon-free energy in California

Billions in potential federal dollars have led Gov. Gavin Newsom to pause the decommissioning of the Diablo Canyon nuclear plant — source of one sixth of the state’s green energy.Continue readingWeighing the consequences of losing carbon-free energy in California

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Energy & the West

Car batteries are the goal. Lithium is the quickest way to make them. Does a global good require local sacrifice in the Southwest?

Decarbonizing global transportation requires building a huge quantity of batteries so fleets can convert to electric power. This will mean more mining to supply the lightweight metal lithium. So far, most lithium has come from Australia, South America, and China, but eyes are turning to deposits in the United States.Continue readingCar batteries are the goal. Lithium is the quickest way to make them. Does a global good require local sacrifice in the Southwest?

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Economic Development & the West Energy & the West

As Plant Faces Closure, New Mexico City Weights Bet on Clean Coal Technology

With the state committed to decarbonizing its electricity supply by 2045, Farmington’s coal-fired power plant and mine are set to shut down. Faced with the loss of their largest employer, city leaders are considering whether to get behind an uncertain carbon-capture technology, or turn to renewables and the tourist economy. Continue readingAs Plant Faces Closure, New Mexico City Weights Bet on Clean Coal Technology

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Energy & the West

Changing Currents: Picturing a Northwest Without Cheap, Public Hydropower

The power gained by harnessing the Columbia River paved the way for industrial development and widespread farmland irrigation. But what if, instead of public utilities, that power had been sold by private firms seeking profits? Continue readingChanging Currents: Picturing a Northwest Without Cheap, Public Hydropower

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Energy & the West

Decarbonizing California’s Energy Diet 

California’s ambitious energy goals may lead the state toward an economy far less reliant on carbon-based fuels than ever before. But how quickly?Continue readingDecarbonizing California’s Energy Diet 

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Economic Development & the West Energy & the West

Beyond the Coal Boom: Powder River Basin Residents Look to a Diversified Future

The nationwide decline of coal is testing the resilience of the Powder River Basin. Residents used to a thriving economy, a top-notch education system, and an excess of job opportunities are learning to live with less. Continue readingBeyond the Coal Boom: Powder River Basin Residents Look to a Diversified Future