Pennsylvania authorizes regulations for carbon capture wells

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🗞️ Driving the news: Pennsylvania lawmakers approved a bill to attract carbon capture projects and federally funded hydrogen hubs
• The legislation, authored by Republicans, empowers the Department of Environmental Protection to regulate underground carbon dioxide storage wells

🔭 The context: The bill passed both the House and Senate and awaits Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro’s signature
• Opponents argue the technology is unproven and costly compared to other climate solutions like energy conservation and renewables
• Proponents believe state oversight will accelerate approvals for projects critical to reducing greenhouse gas emissions

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Carbon capture is seen as crucial for slowing climate change
• The Biden administration's incentives have led to numerous permit applications, though few projects are currently operational

⏭️ What's next: The bill supports two hydrogen hubs awarded by the Biden administration as part of a $7 billion federal program to develop hydrogen fuel
• These projects are essential for reducing emissions and advancing cleaner energy sources

💬 One quote: "The initiative aims to expedite approvals for new projects that are critical for reducing greenhouse gas emissions," say proponents of the bill

📈 One stat: Few carbon capture projects are currently operating, and only a limited number of wells have been approved so far

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