Energy

Texas coal plants are contaminating groundwater with pollutants like arsenic and cobalt from coal ash, a report by the Environmental Integrity Project warns. Most disposal sites lack proper lining to prevent leakage, and contamination exceeds federal health benchmarks, posing risks to human health and the environment.

A bipartisan carbon fee bill, The Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act (H.R. 7173), was introduced in both the House and Senate, aiming to advance renewable energy and reduce emissions. Supported by Citizens' Climate Lobby, it imposes a carbon fee, redistributes revenues, and seeks broad support.

The 9th Annual DFW Solar Tour, the largest renewable energy tour in Texas, offers a free, self-guided event across 50 locations in North Texas on Oct. 13. Organized by the North Texas Renewable Energy Group, it features solar-powered sites, educational centers, and solar experts available for queries.

Evan Boehler of McKinney uses a Home Biogas system to convert kitchen waste into methane gas for cooking, reducing stove use. Developed by Israeli company Home Biogas, it’s an eco-friendly solution addressing food waste, greenhouse gas emissions, and providing renewable energy and fertilizer for global environmental and health benefits.

The Dallas-Fort Worth Regional Transportation Council is considering hyperloop technology for statewide projects. After visiting Virgin Hyperloop One, they plan to study high-speed corridors, potentially transforming regional travel. The initiative includes an environmental impact study for routes and aims to connect key Texas cities, enhancing economic opportunities.

DART has added seven electric buses to its fleet, servicing the free downtown Dallas D-Link route. Funded by a $7.6 million federal grant, these zero-emission buses replace diesel buses and support DART’s clean fuel initiative. Electric buses are part of a nationwide trend to improve air quality.

Total, a top gas driller, won City Council approval to waive Arlington’s 600-foot setback rule, despite the protest of over 80 residents. Although Arlington had denied a similar application in February, Total’s revised proposal passed 7-1. The decision sparked public health and safety concerns.

Demonstrators will protest outside ExxonMobil’s annual shareholder meeting at the Myerson Symphony Center in Dallas on May 30, highlighting climate change issues and Exxon’s inadequate response to shareholder resolutions. The protest is led by 350Dallas and supported by various advocacy groups concerned about Exxon’s community impact and fossil fuel dependency.

Protestors opposed a gas drilling setback waiver during an Arlington City Council hearing, which was delayed to May 22 for more information. Total seeks to drill within 324 feet of homes, despite a denied request in February. Activists cite health risks, while some support the drilling.

The EarthxFilm festival awarded its top prize to *Unfractured*, a documentary directed by Chanda Chevannes about biologist-turned-activist Sandra Steingraber. Highlighting the human cost of activism, the film supports grassroots anti-fracking efforts, notably in Texas, with Chevannes dedicating the award to Liveable Arlington.