Midwest Braces for Climate Change Impacts, from Shorter Winters to Job Shifts
Climate change is reshaping the Midwest, with North Dakota and Minnesota expecting shorter winters, hotter summers, increased flooding, and more frequent droughts. Meanwhile, the region is also seeing shifts in job markets and energy projects, as well as efforts to combat climate change through policy and infrastructure changes.
In North Dakota, the federal infrastructure bill could bring hundreds of millions of dollars for carbon capture and storage (CCS) projects. Several parties, including energy companies like Continental Resources, the state government, coal power plants, universities, and NGOs, could receive funding. However, the actual allocation depends on the specific guidelines of the federal plan.
In Minnesota, St. Paul is considering eliminating minimum parking requirements for new construction as part of its climate change strategy. Meanwhile, the state could receive $68 million to build electric vehicle charging stations under the Senate-passed infrastructure bill.
Job trends in the clean energy sector have been mixed. While construction is underway on a 77-turbine wind project in Michigan, Midwest clean energy jobs declined by roughly 9% last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Iowa saw a 9.7% drop in such jobs, losing about 3,100 positions.
Wind energy projects are also sparking debate. In South Dakota, plans for a 71-turbine, 200 MW wind project are dividing residents over aesthetics and potential revenue. Meanwhile, Ohio's Lordstown Motors, an electric vehicle startup, is in talks to build vehicles for other automakers or lease factory space.
Efforts to save struggling energy plants are also underway. A coalition in northern Illinois is making a final push to save two Exelon nuclear plants, which are facing closure due to financial struggles.
As the Midwest grapples with the impacts of climate change, efforts to adapt and mitigate its effects are underway. From potential funding for CCS projects in North Dakota to policy changes in Minnesota and job market shifts, the region is navigating a complex landscape of challenges and opportunities in the face of a changing climate.
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