The permitting bill enters a critical stretch
Data: Columbia University Center on Global Energy Policy; Table: Ben Geman/Axios The push to pass a sweeping permitting bill is gaining powerful allies and encountering fresh resistance as Congress prepares for a post-midterms showdown. Why it matters: It's the most important energy bill in a long time. Cutting hurdles for projects is a top priority for fossil fuels and renewables sectors. But…
The sweeping permitting bill, regarded as the most important energy legislation in recent times, is encountering both support and opposition as Congress approaches a critical period post midterms. This bill aims to reduce obstacles for both fossil fuel and renewable energy projects, a priority for both sectors. However, environmentalists argue it undermines critical protections in the name of expediting reviews.
A new interactive analysis by researchers from Columbia University's energy think tank suggests significant time savings for transmission projects if the bill is enacted, based on historical data analysis. While the Columbia Center on Global Energy Policy does not hold an institutional stance on the bill, its founding director Jason Bordoff is urging environmentalists to refrain from opposing it.
Former officials from six presidential administrations have united behind the bill, including Treasury Secretaries Janet Yellen and Steven Mnuchin, as well as Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and former Defense and CIA chief Leon Panetta. The bill has drawn opposition from tribal leaders and some green groups, with Representative Ro Khanna questioning its impact on data centers.
The Senate is anticipated to vote on the bipartisan permitting bill soon after their return from recess.
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