Electric and gas utility systems in the US have historically been regulated separately. However, in response to winter storm events and interests in affordability, reliability, and decarbonization, states are increasingly looking to coordinate these systems. The state of Washington has recently become a national leader in this space. Continue reading »
We believe that durable climate solutions are built through collaboration, practical policy, and market-driven innovation. That’s why we’re excited to announce that registration is now open for CO2NNECT 2026, a flagship convening focused on creating trusted, solutions-oriented spaces where decision makers collaborate across sectors to accelerate the deployment of technologies that reduce emissions while ensuring reliable, affordable energy. Continue reading »
As carbon management projects move from concept to development, one question is becoming increasingly urgent for policy makers, industry leaders, and communities alike: Where can carbon capture and storage be deployed most effectively, and what infrastructure will it require? Continue reading »
A new report from the Great Plains Institute draws on interviews with local stakeholders to examine transportation challenges in the Twin Cities region and offers solutions for building a reliable, affordable bikeshare system that could help address similar challenges across the country. Continue reading »
Local planners and sustainability staff are being asked to address complex climate issues faster than ever, often while juggling other responsibilities, limited capacity, and a growing set of expectations.
To better understand what is needed at the local level to support this work, GPI partnered with the American Planning Association Sustainable Communities Division (APA-SCD) and the Esther A. & Joseph Klingenstein Fund to survey practitioners across the country. Continue reading »
State hydrogen policy is evolving quickly. Over the past several legislative sessions, states across the country have introduced hydrogen legislation with language on incentives, regulatory directives, and safety frameworks. At the same time, policy makers and stakeholders are often asked to consider new proposals without clear visibility into what other states have already done. Continue reading »
Minnesota communities in Hennepin County recently worked to lower energy costs and deploy cleaner, more resilient energy options by streamlining solar zoning and permitting processes. As a result of their work, they achieved Silver designation from the SolSmart program, which provided free technical assistance and recognition to communities on their path to supporting local solar projects (SolSmart is part of the broader Energy Ready program suite). Continue reading »
Across the country, cities and towns are planning for electric vehicles (EVs) in earnest. Smaller, rural, and more resource-constrained communities are best positioned to succeed when they have the capacity, subject-matter support, and locally appropriate tools needed to plan and deliver EV infrastructure that fits their context. Technical assistance and designation programs like Charging Smart provide this type of support. Continue reading »
In part one of this blog series, we explored the rapid rise in electric bike (e-bike) usage and the public investments fueling this trend. E-bikes can play a crucial role in building a more reliable, affordable, and sustainable transportation system that reduces dependence on personal vehicles, a key part of GPI’s work to decarbonize the transportation sector. State rebate programs and local incentives have made e-bikes more accessible than ever. Continue reading »
As we start the countdown to the end of 2025, we’re excited to share our most-read stories from the last year!
From sharing our leading research on critical energy infrastructure to highlighting community-driven clean energy solutions, we’re proud of the impact we’ve made alongside the many partners we’ve collaborated with over the past year. Continue reading »
