Energy

Illinois Commerce Commission Approves Rail Safety Upgrades

The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) approved nearly $1 million for safety upgrades at three highway-rail crossings in Carroll and Ogle counties. The funding, from the Grade Crossing Protection Fund, will cover new automatic flashing light signals and gates, with BNSF Railway Company covering remaining costs and maintenance.

Illinois Commission Approves 2026 Renewable Resources Procurement Plan

The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) approved the Illinois Power Agency's (IPA) 2026 Long-Term Renewable Resources Procurement Plan. This plan guides the procurement of new renewable generation in Illinois for the 2026-2028 program years, encouraging investment in various clean energy projects.

NY Commission Approves Offshore Wind Implementation Plan

The New York Public Service Commission approved NYSERDA's Offshore Wind Implementation Plan, which aims to reduce ratepayer costs associated with offshore wind development. The plan outlines processes for managing the sale of Offshore Wind Renewable Energy Certificates (ORECs).

NY Transmission Line Rebuild Hearing Set

The New York Public Service Commission will hold a virtual public statement hearing on February 24, 2026, regarding an application by NYSEG to rebuild a 230-kilovolt transmission line in Erie and Wyoming Counties. The hearing is an opportunity for public input on the proposed project.

NYPSC Public Hearing on Proposed Transmission Line

The New York State Public Service Commission will hold a virtual public statement hearing on February 24, 2026, regarding an application by NYSEG to rebuild and construct a 52-mile transmission line. The hearing allows public input on the proposed project, which requires new rights-of-way and may involve property acquisition.

New York Approves Two Rivers Solar Project

New York State's Department of Public Service has issued a final siting permit for the 200-megawatt Two Rivers Solar Project in St. Lawrence County. The project is expected to create construction jobs and provide significant local investment and tax revenue.

Public Hearing on NYSEG Transmission Line Rebuild

The New York State Public Service Commission will hold a virtual public statement hearing on March 4, 2026, regarding an application by NYSEG for a proposed rebuild of an 18-mile transmission line. The hearing allows the public to provide input on the project, which may involve acquiring additional property rights.

CPUC Leadership Changes and CAISO Board Appointment

The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) announced leadership changes, with Alice Reynolds departing as President to join the CAISO Board of Governors. Commissioner John Reynolds has been appointed as the new CPUC President, and Christine Harada as a new Commissioner. These changes aim to continue California's progress in decarbonizing the electrical grid.

Chumash Fiber Network Uses XGS-PON Technology for Broadband

The Santa Ynez Chumash Tribe has launched a new broadband network in Santa Barbara County, California, utilizing XGS-PON technology. This initiative, supported by a grant from the California Public Utilities Commission, aims to provide high-speed internet to tribal lands and surrounding areas.

CPUC New Filings and Proposed Decisions

The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has published its weekly update of new filings for the week of February 16-20, 2026. This includes proposed decisions open for public comment and new complaints or applications impacting utility services.