Industry and IBEW News

Higher Bills, Delayed Projects: How Administration Policies Hit CT's Clean Energy Push

https://www.ctinsider.com/connecticut/article/ct-trump-climate-energy-agenda-cost-environment-21294687.php

Connecticut's 2026 gubernatorial race centers on electricity affordability as candidates navigate Trump administration policies shifting federal energy support away from renewables. Gov. Lamont pursues an "all-of-the-above" strategy including natural gas expansion, while facing criticism from both progressive Democrats favoring clean energy investments and Republicans seeking to eliminate public benefits charges on electric bills.

Offshore Wind Project Clears Federal Hurdle, Construction Resumes

https://patch.com/connecticut/across-ct/offshore-wind-project-clears-federal-hurdle-construction-resumes-ct-leaders

A federal court issued a preliminary injunction blocking the Trump administration's halt of the Revolution Wind offshore project, allowing construction to resume on the nearly-complete wind farm. Gov. Lamont praised the ruling, stating the project will deliver diverse energy supply and lower utility costs for over 300,000 Connecticut homes while creating good-paying jobs.

Demolition of Vacant CT Building Puts Future Development In Spotlight

https://www.courant.com/2026/01/14/demolition-of-vacant-and-decaying-ct-building-to-start-it-puts-future-development-in-spotlight/

Demolition work begins on Hartford's vacant data processing center near Dunkin' Park, making way for a $90 million AI center, boutique hotel, and parking garage. The $9.4 million demolition is expected to complete by June, clearing the site for RMS Cos. redevelopment that includes a proposed center for applied artificial intelligence with potential Google technology partnership.

Biz Mgr Ryerse Elected to Building Trades Post

https://rbj.net/2026/01/22/ray-ryerse-elected-rochester-building-trades-president

Ray Ryerse, business manager for IBEW Local 86, has been elected president of the Rochester Building Trades Council, succeeding Grant Malone who served for five years. Ryerse, a longtime advocate for registered apprenticeship programs and jobsite safety, will lead the council representing affiliated construction trade unions across the Greater Rochester and Finger Lakes region.

Is Administration Losing Its War on Wind Power?

https://www.washingtonpost.com/climate-environment/2026/01/21/trump-war-on-wind-setbacks

The Trump administration suffered three court losses last week in its campaign against offshore wind, as federal judges lifted stop-work orders on major projects. Industry advocates and even some oil industry figures have grown alarmed by the administration's anti-wind vendetta, which threatens to restrict power supply at a time when electricity demand is surging from data centers and other sources.