As Democrats seek changes to energy permits bill, divisions emerge
XLE•House Democrats are working to revise a Senate-passed energy permitting bill, while some colleagues favor waiting until Democrats take control of Congress next year. The Senate voted 73-25 to begin debate on the measure, which would streamline approvals for energy projects and require large data centers to cover more grid-upgrade costs.
1. Democrats weigh their options
House Democrats are working on changes to a sweeping energy permitting bill, while some lawmakers want to wait until their party takes control of Congress in January. The Senate voted 73-25 last week to begin debate on the Bipartisan American Affordability and Jobs Act, which would streamline approvals for power plants, transmission lines, mines and other projects.
2. Possible revisions
Representative Kathy Castor said Democrats are focused on revising provisions affecting the Clean Water Act and Endangered Species Act. Some lawmakers have raised concerns about reduced public input before project approvals. The bill also includes measures to expand transmission capacity, integrate more clean energy onto the grid, support community solar and address data center demand.
3. Support and opposition
Senator Sheldon Whitehouse said he had received “good signals” from House colleagues about a possible compromise if the bill clears the Senate in the coming weeks. President Donald Trump, organized labor and parts of the clean-energy industry have supported the measure, while some Democrats argue that voters want affordable energy and stronger safeguards for data centers and related infrastructure.
