YOU SHOULD KNOW…

Renewable energy use in the U.S. has hit an 80-year high, according to the U.S. Energy Information Agency. Renewables accounted for nearly 10 percent of our energy generated in 2014. (PV-Magazine).

QUOTE OF THE DAY

“Eighty years ago this month, President Franklin D. Roosevelt created the Rural Electrification Administration, which connected nearly all Americans to the grid in a little more than a decade. Today, rural America is an energy leader, providing clean electricity and transportation fuels to the rest of the country, reducing energy waste, and strengthening our economic competitiveness. In the past seven years, the United States has added enough wind capacity to power more than 13 million homes. Ninety nine percent of that energy comes from rural communities, creating jobs, providing a second source of income for family farms, and attracting $100 billion in new investment.” – From a opinion piece from Hillary Clinton.

WHAT’S TRENDING 

12 – That’s how many members of Congress will likely decide whether or not Fast Track Trade Authority will pass or fail when the House comes back into session in June. (Politico) 

Hurricanes and climate change – President Obama yesterday said the link between extreme weather and climate change is undeniable. (The Hill) 

North Star sun – Minnesota regulators have just given the green light to the state’s largest solar project. (Minneapolis Star Tribune)

Could’ve been worse – Kansas Governor Sam Brownback signed off on a compromise plan that makes the state’s renewable energy standard voluntary (versus eliminating it entirely, which was on the table in the state). (Associated Press)

They like it – An editorial says the new clean water rule from the EPA is for the greater good. (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette)