solar power

Lawmakers are formally asking Wyoming’s governor to put fossil fuels above wind and solar. But one senator testified this week to a committee at the Capitol that that’s already happening.

A controversial bill that would have increased fees on rooftop solar users died in the House Travel, Recreation, Wildlife and Cultural Resources Committee.Tensions were high – with more than 20 people joining the committee meeting on Feb. 16 to testify against Senate File 92. Of the eight that actually got a chance to speak, they only had two minutes each. Meanwhile, the four in support all testified and had three minutes, per the rules set by Chairwoman Sandy Newsome (R-Cody) at the beginning of the testimony.

Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland announced plans last week to accelerate solar development on public lands in the Mountain West. The efforts build on the Biden administration’s goal to support more renewable energy projects.

New data shows that the Western U.S. produces the most residential solar energy in the nation. California is a main reason why, but it’s increasing across the rest of the region, too.

Wind and solar developments can affect everything from an area's viewshed to its wildlife. But solar panels and wind turbines are growing more common across the state as the world seeks greener sources of energy, and as energy firms notice Wyoming's wide open spaces.

It's been a tough year for gas and oil prices, but solar power has seen steady growth during this pandemic year.

A new survey finds that Wyoming residents support all forms of energy in the state.Jessica Western, a research associate with the University of Wyoming…