POLITICO Energy

David Ferris, a transportation and electric grid expert for POLITICO’s E&E News, discusses the dismally slow rollout of federal electric vehicle chargers despite ample funding. He reveals administrative hurdles and the need for better collaboration between state transportation departments and utilities. Despite the delays, Ferris notes a glimmer of hope from officials who anticipate progress by year-end. Additionally, he highlights the Biden administration's efforts to eliminate lead pipes in drinking water, addressing serious health concerns tied to lead exposure.

Gavin Bade, a seasoned trade reporter for POLITICO, dives into the heated political battleground over electric vehicles in Michigan. He highlights how Republicans are leveraging anti-EV sentiment to target Democrats, particularly impacting Vice President Kamala Harris. Bade discusses the significant voter disapproval facing Democrats and the challenges of defending their EV policies amidst rising criticism. Additionally, the podcast touches on the implications of upcoming Supreme Court rulings on climate, further complicating the landscape for energy debates.

Ben Lefebvre, an energy reporter for POLITICO, dives into the current dynamics of global energy markets amidst the Iran-Israel conflict. He discusses why oil prices remain surprisingly stable despite geopolitical tensions. Lefebvre highlights the shift in global production, emphasizing the U.S.'s leading role. Additionally, he touches on the upcoming Supreme Court scrutiny regarding the Nuclear Regulatory Commission's authority on temporary nuclear waste storage, linking energy policy and international conflict.

Catherine Morehouse, an energy reporter for POLITICO, joins to analyze the Biden administration's recent $1.5 billion initiative to upgrade America's transmission infrastructure. She discusses the critical need for modernization to meet rising energy demands and address climate challenges. The conversation also reveals insights from a study on the state of the current transmission system, highlighting expansion opportunities. Plus, they cover a $1.05 billion loan to enhance the electric vehicle charging network, aiming for a greener future.

The global climate community is in a state of anxiety as they lack a solid strategy for a potential Trump return. Discussions highlight fears of his previous environmental policies undermining international climate agreements. Amidst this uncertainty, there's an emphasis on the importance of state and local initiatives in tackling climate change. Additionally, concerns arise from Archer Daniels Midland's carbon injection site leak, raising questions about the future of innovative climate technology.

Ry Rivard, an energy and environment reporter for POLITICO, dives into the striking dockworkers' situation across the U.S. The strike is placing immense pressure on the Biden administration just weeks before the elections. Rivard discusses how this labor unrest could reshape the economic landscape and affect energy production. He also highlights the Treasury Department's plans to finalize clean hydrogen production rules, illustrating the urgent intersection of labor issues and energy policy.

Catherine Morehouse, a political reporter specializing in the nuclear industry, joins the discussion about the resurgence of nuclear power in America. She highlights significant government investments, like the $2.8 billion for the Palisades plant, and the imminent reopening of Three Mile Island. Topics of focus include how nuclear can support rising energy demands and its role in achieving climate goals. Additionally, Morehouse addresses the industry's regulatory challenges and concerns surrounding safety and waste management, alongside the economic benefits of flood adaptation projects.

Bob Latta, a Republican representative from Ohio, is vying for a leadership role in the House Energy and Commerce committee, alongside competitor Brett Guthrie from Kentucky. They delve into their visions for energy policy, with Latta evaluating the potential repeal of parts of the Inflation Reduction Act. The discussion addresses the challenges of long permitting processes and the need for bipartisan legislation to enhance U.S. energy independence. They also highlight the balance between clean energy initiatives and maintaining affordable energy for American manufacturing.

Zack Colman, a POLITICO reporter focused on the intersection of corporate energy and politics, dives into why energy leaders are avoiding discussions about the upcoming presidential election. He highlights their cautious praise for Biden's climate efforts amid uncertainty about future policies under possible Trump or Harris administrations. The conversation also touches on the recent $9.5 million funding for a low-carbon steel project in Ohio, reflecting the industry's shifting landscape.

Sara Schonhardt, a climate policy journalist from POLITICO’s E&E News, joins California Governor Gavin Newsom to discuss President Biden's recent address at New York Climate Week. They dive into Biden's achievements in job creation and pollution reduction while highlighting the stark contrast with Trump's policies. Newsom sheds light on his new legislation to regulate oil and gas production in California, emphasizing the urgency of climate action. Their conversation paints a vivid picture of the critical junction facing U.S. climate strategy ahead of the upcoming elections.