Permitting deal draws lobbying blitz as hurdles mount
The fragile Senate permitting deal is a major priority across the energy industry, per newly filed lobbying disclosures. Why it matters: The filings reveal behind-the-scenes efforts by powerful interests and companies representing oil and gas, mining, renewables, environmentalists and plenty in between to shape the legislation. The big picture: The bill title (Bipartisan American Affordability…
The Senate's permitting deal, a priority in the energy industry, is the focus of a significant lobbying effort, as revealed by recently filed disclosures. These filings paint a picture of the complex web of interests and companies seeking to shape the legislation. The bill, known as the Bipartisan American Affordability and Jobs Act (BAAJA), was introduced on September 30 during the third quarter.
While the lobbying is primarily targeted at the bill itself, many other groups with interests in permitting legislation, such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the National Association of Manufacturers, also list it in their filings.
Major industry players, including the American Petroleum Institute, the Edison Electric Institute, and the National Mining Association, are among those actively involved. Additionally, environmental groups like Earthjustice and the Nature Conservancy, as well as low-carbon power trade groups like the Solar Energy Industries Association, are all part of the lobbying campaign. Notably, individual companies like Chevron, BP, Duke Energy, and Caterpillar are also participating.
The disclosures indicate that certain provisions of the bill, such as changes to Clean Water Act permitting and state water quality reviews, have garnered particular attention. The Interior Department's recent request to reconsider the Biden-era prior approval for Avangrid's New England Wind project in Massachusetts has added new tension to the permitting deal.
This move has been criticized by Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) and others, who view it as a procedural tactic. The Biden administration, however, maintains that the filing is a legitimate legal defense.
Recently, nine Democratic state attorneys general have expressed substantial concerns about the bill in a letter to lawmakers. As the first procedural vote on the bill is scheduled for November 9, the coming months are expected to witness heightened advocacy efforts and behind-the-scenes maneuverings.
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