Energy

Energy Firm Drops Lawsuit Against Oklahoma Landowners, Seeks Voluntary Survey Access for Statewide Transmission Project

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ENID, Okla. — A recent legal battle involving Cimarron Link, a subsidiary of Invenergy, and several Garfield County landowners has come to an end, as the company withdraws its lawsuit regarding land survey access. This decision marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing debate between property rights and large-scale infrastructure projects in Oklahoma. The conflict began when Cimarron Link sought access to private lands to survey for a major transmission line project, intended to stretch from the Panhandle to eastern Oklahoma. Landowners, including David and Linda Bryan, the Bryan Family LLC, LeRoy Fuksa Trust, and … Read more

Montana Supreme Court Upholds Landmark Ruling Mandating State Consider Climate Impact in Energy Projects

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HELENA, Mont. — Montana’s highest court has ruled that the state violated the right to a clean environment by approving energy projects that ignore their impact on climate change. This landmark decision, concluding with a 6-1 vote, arrives amid increasing legal scrutiny over environmental policies at the state level. The legal challenge was initiated by environmental groups, who argued that Montana must evaluate the climate consequences of its energy policies, especially those related to fossil fuels. This argument found favor in a district court in 2023 and now stands affirmed by the Montana Supreme Court. … Read more

Francis Joshua Handy Passes at 91: Reflecting on a Storied Career that Bridged Law, Politics, and Global Energy Ventures

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Wellington, New Zealand – The recent passing of Francis Joshua Handy at the age of 91 marks the conclusion of a distinctly illustrious and vibrant career that spanned several decades in New Zealand’s legal and commercial spheres. Born in the more serene environs of South Island and raised in a deeply religious household, Handy’s life trajectory was shaped by a transition from potential ecclesiastical duties to significant legal and economic roles, reflecting a life of complex, yet impactful, secular engagements. Educated at Victoria University where he earned a Master’s in 1957 and later a law … Read more

Chile Faces Complex Challenges in Territorial Management for Energy Projects

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Santiago, Chile — In Chile, securing permits for development projects, especially in sectors like energy, desalination, and mining, has become an arduous task fraught with complexity. This complexity stems largely from the country’s intricate permitting process and the challenge of gaining acceptance for large-scale projects in communities where development is already dense. Recent attempts by the Chilean government to streamline these challenges include proposing bills aimed at simplifying the process. Yet, significant hurdles remain, particularly concerning territorial planning and community acceptance. The necessity for projects to be located where the natural resources exist further complicates … Read more