iExecutive Branch Activity
Wind Energy Expectations
The White House has released its updated study by the Department of Energy on the future of U.S. wind energy titled, “The Wind Vision Report.” The report contains a revised expectation from 2008 with wind powering 10 percent of electricity in 2020, 20 percent in 2030, and 35 percent in 2050. The full report can be accessed here.
Regulatory Activity
Changing EPA’s Rules
In connection with two Executive Orders (E.O. 13563 and E.O. 13610) the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is seeking public comment on the agency’s rules with the intention of ‘‘improving regulation and regulatory review and reducing regulatory burdens.’’ EPA is specifically seeking comment on how the agency can promote “regulatory modernization through business-process streamlining, facilitated by improved technology.” Comments are due April 8.
Legislative Activity
Outer Continental Shelf Bids
The Department of Interior, Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, has issued a Proposed Notice of Sale for Western Gulf of Mexico Planning Area Outer Continental Shelf Oil and Gas Lease Sale 246. The bid opening is currently scheduled for August 19.
Crude Oil Export
On Thursday, March 19, the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee will hold a full committee hearing to review the United States’ crude oil export policy.
Power Plants
On Tuesday, March 17, the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, Subcommittee on Energy and Power, will hold a hearing to examine “EPA’s Proposed 111(d) Rule for Existing Power Plants: Legal and Cost Issues”.
Proposed Ozone Standard
On Tuesday, March 17, the House Science, Space and Technology Committee will hold a hearing titled, “The Impact and Achievability of EPA’s Proposed Ozone Standards.” The committee will hear testimony from the National Black Chamber of Commerce and the Small Business and Entrepreneurship Council.
EPA FY 16 Budget
On Wednesday, March 18, the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment, will examine the President’s proposed budget for the EPA for Fiscal Year 2016.
TOSCA
On Wednesday, March 18, the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee will hold a hearing to discuss the Toxic Substances Control Act.
