Robert W. Baird Co.

States Toughen Fracking Rules Ahead Of EPA

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The hydraulic fracturing technology that opened vast US natural gas shale resources could be snared in what one analyst calls “a regulatory race to the top.”

The industry is arguing that regulation of hydraulic fracturing should stay at the state level, where it is traditionally managed. Environmentalists disagree, saying the states’ record is spotty and tougher federal standards are needed. The Environmental Protection Agency is studying the issues, and aims for proposed rules in 2014. Keep reading →

 /  Published January 18, 2012 at 6:00 AM

Tax Break Tactics Divide Renewable Industry

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As Congress returns to Washington to battle over the fiscal 2012 budget, the wind and solar lobbies are scrambling to preserve the tax breaks their industries depend on–just not the same breaks.

Solar advocates say a special provision to allow conversion of investment tax credits (ITC) into cash grants, enacted in the 2009 stimulus, must be extended or solar investment will be halved. While the ITC continues through 2016, the conversion option expires at the end of 2011. Keep reading →

 /  Published August 31, 2011 at 6:00 AM