Key Democrat warns permitting bill could create "gold rush for gas"
A bipartisan deal to speed energy development is facing concerns it could favor natural gas over renewables because of President Trump's opposition to wind and solar. Why it matters: The worries from Rep. Sean Casten (D-Ill.) could complicate efforts to pass the bill before year's end, highlighting divisions even among Democrats who have long supported permitting reform. Driving the news: Casten,…
Senate Democrats, led by Rep. Sean Casten, express caution over a bipartisan energy bill that could inadvertently promote natural gas over renewable energy sources. Casten, a former energy executive and prominent Democrat on permitting reform, warns the bill may lead to a "gold rush for gas" if it is adopted in its current form.
He argues that the bill's language, particularly a five-year provision allowing developers to challenge past permitting decisions, could disproportionately benefit gas projects due to the Trump administration's record on renewables. The bill, sponsored by Republicans and Democrats, aims to expedite the construction of energy infrastructure and power lines, but its future hangs in the balance as the midterm elections approach and key Democrats push for amendments.
The White House backs the deal and is actively pushing for a vote in the Senate before the November 9 procedural vote.
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