Arkansas Begins Solar Construction; Texas Woos Rivian; TVA's Contracts Challenged
An Arkansas company commences construction on two 200 kW solar arrays for a city, while in Texas, electric vehicle manufacturer Rivian is offered incentives for a potential factory. Meanwhile, a legal battle unfolds between environmental groups and the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) over its long-term contracts with local power companies.
In Arkansas, a local company initiates construction on two 200 kW solar arrays for a city, marking a step towards renewable energy. Meanwhile, in Texas, the state offers grants and tax breaks to electric vehicle manufacturer Rivian for a potential factory near Fort Worth, aiming to boost its green economy.
In the legal sphere, a federal judge rules she lacks authority to halt blasting for the Mountain Valley Pipeline, which threatens a densely populated village in western Virginia. The pipeline's request to cross streams and wetlands using trenchless methods has been tentatively approved by federal regulators.
A lawsuit against the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) by environmental groups alleges its auto-renewing, 20-year contracts with local power companies violate federal law and hinder the transition from fossil fuels. The judge allows the lawsuit to proceed, setting the stage for further legal action.
The TVA also plans to survey its employees and contractors about their COVID-19 vaccination status, with potential restrictions for unvaccinated workers. Ford's shift towards electric vehicles, however, unsettles Kentucky's automotive industry, as the state adapts to the changing automotive landscape.
Construction begins on solar arrays in Arkansas, while Texas courts Rivian with incentives. The Mountain Valley Pipeline faces legal challenges and environmental concerns, and the TVA's contract practices are scrutinized. Meanwhile, Kentucky's automotive industry grapples with Ford's electric vehicle focus.
