INSIDE CLIMATE NEWS

Founded in 2007, Inside Climate News is a Pulitzer Prize-winning, nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that provides essential reporting and analysis on climate change, energy and the environment, for the public and for decision makers. ICN serves as watchdogs of government, industry and advocacy groups and hold them accountable for their policies and actions.

By INSIDE CLIMATE NEWS

Jul 19 2024, INSIDE CLIMATE NEWS

Bitcoin mines threaten state power grid, say Texas leaders

Cheryl Shadden, a Granbury, Texas resident, suffers from noise pollution and hearing loss caused by a nearby 300-megawatt Bitcoin facility. The growing number of energy-intensive cryptocurrency mines in Texas raises concerns about power grid stability and rising utility costs, while residents demand accountability and solutions for noise and environmental impacts.

Nov 21 2023, INSIDE CLIMATE NEWS

Midland says disposal wells could threaten water supply

Midland, Texas is challenging Pilot Water Solutions' permits to inject oil wastewater near T-Bar Ranch, a vital water source. The Railroad Commission conceded Midland's standing to contest these permits due to environmental concerns. Midland's case highlights tensions between water needs and wastewater disposal in West Texas.

Aug 25 2023, INSIDE CLIMATE NEWS

Standards still murky for disposing oilfield wastewater in Texas rivers

Texas is advancing the discharge of produced water from oil and gas drilling into waterways, despite lacking comprehensive risk assessments and regulation for all contaminants. Researchers express concerns over potential health and environmental impacts, emphasizing the need for more scientific data before proceeding with permits for this unproven practice.

Jul 14 2023, INSIDE CLIMATE NEWS

Developer confirms funding for massive Rio Grande gas terminal

Developer NextDecade has secured $5.9 billion for a large gas terminal in the Rio Grande delta, with five compressors processing 5.4 million tons of LNG annually, marking significant growth in Texas' energy exports despite opposition from local activists and environmental concerns.

Jun 29 2023, INSIDE CLIMATE NEWS

Recorded cases of heat illness spike during Texas heat wave

Record-setting heat in Texas led to numerous ER visits for heat illnesses, especially in cities like Austin and Del Rio. June 2023 may become the hottest June ever recorded in parts of Texas. Deaths linked to heat include a utility lineman and a postal worker; some migrants have died near the U.S./Mexico border.

Jun 02 2023, INSIDE CLIMATE NEWS

Arlington approves new fracking zone near homes and schools

The Arlington City Council approved a fracking zone near homes and schools, despite residents' objections. It's a victory for TotalEnergies, facing legal challenges over horizontal drilling. Texas law limits city control over drilling, influencing the council's 8-1 vote pending final approval.

Mar 20 2023, INSIDE CLIMATE NEWS

EPA officials visit the Barnett Shale — ground zero of the fracking boom

EPA officials visited the Barnett Shale, noting pollution risks from fracking near residential areas. Community members, including Liveable Arlington, highlighted lax regulations and health concerns. Despite past productivity, Barnett output has declined. Locals seek stronger monitoring and oversight, amidst challenges from state laws limiting city fracking bans.