Energy Today – April 16, 2013

LA Times – EPA: U.S. Greenhouse Gases Drop 

The newspaper highlights the latest good news from the EPA: Increased use of natural gas, much of it developed with  hydraulic fracturing, has helped the United States lower its greenhouse gas emissions 1.6 percent from 2010 to 2011 and nearly 7 percent since 2005.

Roll Call – Redford: Keystone XL an Environmentally Sound Way to Enhance Energy Security

Alberta  Premier Alison Redford’s  op-ed argues that Canada is “the safest, most secure and responsible energy supplier to the United States and a reliable trading partner.” This comes after her recent visit to the U.S. advocating  approval of the Keystone XL pipeline project.  Approving the pipeline “is the choice of reason,” she writes.

Master Resource – EPA’s Tier 3: Transportation Overreach

Paul Driessen writes on the EPA’s “tsunami of regulations,” including the agency’s proposed Tier 3 rule requiring a further lowering of sulfur content in gasoline that  could add costs to refiners and consumers.

Washington Post – Small Businesses Brace for  New Fuel Taxes in Virginia, Maryland

Business owners are preparing for higher gasoline costs resulting from new state taxes – even as federal environmental officials consider a new gasoline rule that also could increase costs.

Fuel Fix Blog – Houston to Launch Energy-Focused High School

Houston’s economy has surged thanks to energy development in the state. Case in point: An area high school is set to open that will be geared toward energy education. Students will learn skills valuable in finding employment in the oil and natural gas industry.