New Mexico advances hydrogen hub plans amid funding challenges; California, Colorado, and Oregon tackle energy and emissions issues.

Wyce and New Mexico officials continue to work together to establish a regional hydrogen hub, despite not receiving federal funding. The proposal was rejected by New Mexico advocates for state energy transition funds to be given to hydrogen-production startups, citing water consumption and emissions concerns. California advocates argue that a new state law aimed at tackling orphaned and abandoned oil and gas sites will allow idle wells to spew methane indefinitely, potentially allowing idle facilities claimed by an operator to emit methane indefinitely. Colorado lawmakers propose establishing passenger rail service on lines used to carry coal to retiring power plants in the western part of the state. Oregon utility Pacific Power receives $150 million in federal infrastructure funding to improve grid resilience and wildfire mitigation. The U.S. Energy Department awards a northern New Mexico electric cooperative $23 million to harden its power grid against climate change-exacerbated extreme weather and wildfire. A company proposes establishing a uranium mine on federal land in western New Mexico. A Seattle sports facility becomes the world’s first arena to receive zero-carbon certification after it upgrades its efficiency and reduces emissions.