The Word Merchant

The Word Merchant by Stephen Heins explores environmental impacts, energy policies, and the economic dimensions of renewable versus traditional energy sources. It critically examines green energy initiatives, climate change narratives, and the role of fossil fuels, with an emphasis on factual information and questioning mainstream environmentalist perspectives.

Environmental Impacts of Energy Sources Economic Analysis of Energy Policies Debates on Renewable vs. Traditional Energy Critiques of Climate Change Narratives Political and Economic Influences on Energy Environmental Advocacy and Activism Global Energy Security and Infrastructure Ethical and Human Rights Perspectives on Climate

The hottest Substack posts of The Word Merchant

And their main takeaways

The Electric Vehicle Bubble Is Starting To Deflate

39 implied HN points • 23 Aug 23
  1. Industries built by government support can fail due to government involvement. For example, the collapse of the electric vehicle bubble in China highlights the consequences of subsidies on the industry.
  2. The oversaturation of the electric vehicle market in China has led to price wars and automakers slashing prices to stay competitive, impacting profit margins.
  3. As the electric vehicle industry faces challenges and overproduction, traditional automakers may need to raise prices on gas-powered cars to compensate for losses in the EV sector.

THE NEW YORK TIMES’ MONSTROUS MISREPRESENTATION OF U.S. FRACKING OPERATIONS

39 implied HN points • 01 Oct 23
  1. Fracking in the United States has been misrepresented in an article by The New York Times, with claims of 'monster fracks' causing energy scarcity, but evidence shows that technological advancements have actually improved energy security, reduced emissions, and attracted investments across the country.
  2. Water usage for hydraulic fracturing in the U.S. represents roughly 0.1% of total U.S. water consumption annually, and innovations in recycling and reuse have significantly reduced the amount of freshwater used in fracking operations.
  3. Fracking has not only enabled emissions reductions through natural gas but has also brought about environmental benefits, like decreased water usage in other industries, thanks to advancements like longer laterals and the shift towards natural gas power generation.

When Parody Meets Dystopia

39 implied HN points • 26 Apr 23
  1. Multiple insurers left the UN's climate change alliance due to antitrust risks, showing the complexities and challenges in transitioning to net-zero emissions.
  2. Canada's government faced criticism for not tracking the effectiveness of its emission-reduction policies, highlighting the importance of monitoring and evaluating sustainability efforts.
  3. Germany's decision to ban oil and gas heating systems in favor of renewables showcases the economic and social implications of transitioning to cleaner energy sources.

Texas Hosts Red Carpet Premiere of ‘No Farmers No Food: Will You Eat the Bugs?’

39 implied HN points • 24 Sep 23
  1. A documentary called 'No Farmers No Food: Will You Eat the Bugs?' was premiered in Texas, highlighting food crises under the guise of climate change.
  2. The film explores the 30X30 plan initiated by the Biden administration to put federal control over a significant portion of U.S. lands, sparking concerns about land grab and control.
  3. Farming communities across the globe are facing challenges from governmental actions, with calls to educate and empower small farmers to protect their land and livelihoods.

Labeled Climate Culprits, European Farmers Rebel Over New Standards

39 implied HN points • 26 Aug 23
  1. European farmers are facing backlash from new environmental standards, leading to political reshaping and protests.
  2. There is a growing divide in Europe regarding climate action, with farmers feeling unfairly burdened.
  3. The discontent among farmers has given rise to new political movements, with rural communities becoming a significant constituency for certain parties.
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Destroying the economy in the name of climate change is their obsession

39 implied HN points • 25 Jun 23
  1. The obsession with climate change has led to calls for drastic actions that impact the economy.
  2. The environmental movement transformed into a battle against capitalism, spearheaded by the left.
  3. The correlation between climate change and forest fires is scrutinized, with emphasis on the need for responsible reporting and action.

The Elites Directing The Energy Transition Really Have No Idea What They Are Doing

39 implied HN points • 07 Sep 23
  1. The elites leading the energy transition may lack competence and understanding of what they are doing.
  2. Challenges exist in scaling grid-scale battery energy storage to meet Net Zero targets by 2050.
  3. Quantitative analysis and proper planning are crucial for ensuring the success of renewable energy transition projects.

ELECTRIC VEHICLES OPINION Volkswagen: “Strong Customer Reluctance” in the Electric Vehicle Sector

39 implied HN points • 02 Jul 23
  1. Volkswagen is facing strong customer reluctance in the electric vehicle sector with demand for EVs up to 30% below planned production figures.
  2. Volkswagen is scaling back EV production while maintaining production of their combustion-engine models like the Passat.
  3. For serious driving needs on rough terrain or long distances, internal combustion engine vehicles are still a more practical choice over electric vehicles.

France barred from ‘Friends of Renewables’ EU ministerial meeting

39 implied HN points • 20 Jun 23
  1. France was excluded from a 'Friends of Renewables' EU ministerial meeting due to delays in adopting the EU's renewable energy directive, showing the importance of prompt action in the renewable energy sector.
  2. There was concern among EU ministers about a compromise that could allow subsidies for coal plants as backup power generators beyond 2025, emphasizing the need for coherent climate policies.
  3. "Friends of Renewables" group aimed to coordinate positions on the reform of the EU electricity market and push for quick decisions on renewable energy to meet climate goals.

Nobel Laureate Silenced

39 implied HN points • 16 Aug 23
  1. Nobel Laureate Dr. John Clauser had his seminar on climate models to the IMF cancelled, which emphasizes potential consequences of stating climate skepticism in certain professional circles.
  2. Dr. Clauser holds controversial views on climate change, critiquing existing climate models and expressing disbelief in a climate crisis, highlighting the ongoing debates and diversity of opinions in the scientific community.
  3. His affiliation with the CO2 Coalition, an organization advocating for the benefits of carbon dioxide emissions, showcases the variety of perspectives in environmental discussions and research.

CBS News Peddles Climate-Attribution Misinfo On Canadian Wildfires

39 implied HN points • 29 Sep 23
  1. CBS News wrongly attributed Canada's 2023 wildfires to climate change
  2. Historical data and records show that Canada's wildfires and air quality impacts are not unique
  3. Wildfires globally have been declining, attributed to factors like carbon dioxide fertilization and rising temperatures

Doug Sheridan Cogitates About EVs

39 implied HN points • 28 Sep 23
  1. The understanding of climate science and policy is criticized for being poor and focused on virtue signaling, which may mislead the public.
  2. The transition to electric vehicles (EVs) involves complex financial negotiations between the government, auto industry, and labor union, with strategic motives and risks involved.
  3. There are concerns about the sustainability and effectiveness of current climate and auto-regulation policies, with calls for more truthfulness and rationality in promises made by politicians.

Don’t believe the renewables myth. Wind and solar are not cheap

39 implied HN points • 25 Aug 23
  1. Renewable energy technologies like wind and solar are often deemed inexpensive, but in reality, the substantial upfront costs and the necessity of subsidies make them not as cheap as believed.
  2. The variability of wind and sun in renewable energy generation poses challenges like intermittency, which requires standby conventional power sources, leading to additional costs for consumers.
  3. Expanding renewable energy infrastructure to achieve net zero emissions will not necessarily result in cheaper energy, instead increasing costs for consumers through various additional expenses like subsidies, balancing costs, and curtailment payments.

EPA Releases Revised WOTUS After Supreme Crt Ruling – More of Same?

39 implied HN points • 30 Aug 23
  1. The EPA released revised WOTUS regulations in response to a Supreme Court ruling, removing 60% of the land from EPA regulations but facing criticism for potential legal challenges ahead.
  2. The Supreme Court ruling clarified that WOTUS regulations should apply only to navigable waters, creating debates over protections for connected water bodies versus isolated ones.
  3. Some environmental groups criticize the revised WOTUS rule for reducing protections for wetlands and waterways, leading to potential pollution and habitat loss.

10 Reasons Not To Own An Electric Vehicle

39 implied HN points • 26 Sep 23
  1. Government mandates for electric vehicles may be considered an abuse of power as they do not have the authority to dictate what vehicles people should own.
  2. Electric vehicles are not truly zero-emission, as their life-cycle assessments show they produce more pollutants than conventional cars.
  3. EVs come with concerns such as fire hazards, environmental impacts from manufacturing, and exploitation of child labor in mining operations.

Clean air advocates urge EPA to regulate heavy-duty trucks

39 implied HN points • 05 Oct 23
  1. Clean air advocates are urging the EPA to regulate heavy-duty trucks to reduce pollution and protect public health.
  2. Heavy-duty trucks, while only 10% of vehicles on the road, contribute significantly to transportation-related emissions and air pollution.
  3. Efforts are being made by cities like Phoenix to transition to zero-emission vehicles and reduce the impact of heavy-duty truck pollution.

More U.S. Wind Farms Terminate Power Agreements Due to Financial Pressures

39 implied HN points • 04 Oct 23
  1. More U.S. wind farm developers are ending power purchase agreements due to changing economics like inflation, supply chain issues, and interest rate spikes.
  2. Avangrid and other companies have canceled agreements for offshore wind projects like Park City Wind and Commonwealth Wind in states like Connecticut and Massachusetts.
  3. The terminations come as projects face financial challenges, while other offshore wind projects like Revolution Wind and Maryland Offshore Wind Project are gaining approvals.

Climate Protesters March on New York, Calling for End to Fossil Fuels

39 implied HN points • 18 Sep 23
  1. Climate protesters in New York demanded an end to fossil fuels and called for world leaders to pivot quickly to renewable energy to combat global warming.
  2. The protest attendees directed their anger at President Biden for continuing to approve permits for new oil and gas drilling, despite the administration's focus on transitioning to renewable energy.
  3. The protest, which attracted tens of thousands in New York, highlighted growing frustration over the expansion of fossil fuel activities and urged for more aggressive climate action from politicians and leaders.

Will the Electric Car Mandates Battle Decide the 2024 Election?

39 implied HN points • 05 Oct 23
  1. The battle over electric car mandates could play a significant role in the 2024 election, with implications for jobs, personal freedom, and economic impact.
  2. There are concerns about the reliance on electricity for transportation due to safety incidents and practical challenges like repair shortages and rising costs for EV ownership.
  3. Resistance to EV mandates signifies a broader clash between those pushing for radical changes, like a shift to EVs, and those advocating for personal freedom and economic stability.

Why Do The Poor Countries Always Stay So Poor?

39 implied HN points • 23 Sep 23
  1. Many poor countries in sub-Saharan Africa have remained impoverished despite hopes for progress post-independence in the 1950s and 1960s.
  2. The involvement of governments in sectors like financing amusement parks and managing oil imports contributes to economic issues in poor nations.
  3. International agencies like the IMF have prescribed more government spending and higher taxes as solutions for poverty, keeping a cycle of debt and poverty in place.

Transmission project to carry Wyoming wind gets federal clearance

39 implied HN points • 17 Apr 23
  1. A transmission project in Wyoming has received federal clearance to carry wind energy from a major wind complex, adding 3 GW of transmission capacity. The entire project is expected to be completed in 19 years, showcasing a lengthy timeline.
  2. The notice to proceed issued by the Bureau of Land Management marks the final step of the authorization process that began in 2008 for the construction of the 732-mile high-voltage system. This project is set to be the largest transmission addition to the Western power grid in decades.
  3. TransWest Express LLC has obtained 100% of the linear rights-of-way and required authorizations for the project, involving states like Wyoming, Colorado, Utah, and Nevada. Construction activities are planned to start by the end of the year, with completion of the first phase expected in 2027.

Sustainable and Inclusive Devastation

39 implied HN points • 04 May 23
  1. Germany is reconsidering reopening idled mines to boost self-sufficiency in critical minerals, despite heavy dependency on China for these resources.
  2. The EU's proposed rewilding law may hinder renewable energy projects by expanding protected areas, showing a contradictory approach to driving down emissions.
  3. Mark Carney and John Podesta's statements on oil investments and low-carbon energy incentives display differing perspectives on the future of energy transition.

Amid Power Cuts, The Climate Gang Is Coming for Our Thermostats

39 implied HN points • 05 Aug 23
  1. The Biden administration is implementing aggressive policies to significantly limit the availability and increase the cost of fossil-fueled consumer products to achieve decarbonization goals. This includes targeting gas stoves, vehicles, and more.
  2. Transitioning to renewable energy sources like wind and solar power poses challenges for the reliability of the electric system, as these sources are weather-dependent and can lead to emergency power cuts during disruptions.
  3. To support the decarbonization agenda, there is a push for centralized control of customer demand by electric companies, leading to potential remote control of thermostats and other energy usage in the future.

97% is most abused number

39 implied HN points • 27 Sep 23
  1. 97% of the published literature in a study of climate science was consistent with human-caused global warming, showing overwhelming support for this theory.
  2. The remaining 3% of studies that did not support human-caused global warming were found to have flawed methodologies or incorrect conclusions.
  3. Despite initial skepticism, the overwhelming evidence led the skeptic conducting the study to agree that the theory of human-caused global warming was correct, though possibly needing adjustments.

AMOC: A Non-Tipping point

39 implied HN points • 06 Oct 23
  1. The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) redistributes heat globally, impacting climate variability significantly.
  2. Forecasts and models suggest a weakening of AMOC, leading to concerns of cascading impacts on other Earth systems, but field research data show stability in the circulation over the last 30 years.
  3. The IPCC highlights concerns about the potential weakening of AMOC due to climate change, even though there is low confidence in the models, and natural variability in AMOC remains unresolved.

Biden EPA Just Cut FERC Off at the Knees re Certifying New Pipes

39 implied HN points • 15 Sep 23
  1. The Biden administration's new rule allows states and tribes to have more power to block projects like pipelines based on water quality concerns.
  2. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) was created to resolve conflicts between states regarding pipeline projects crossing state lines.
  3. The EPA's new rule undoes the Trump administration's limitations on states' authority to block projects, aiming to provide more transparency and efficiency in the certification process.

Biden’s Multi-Billion Dollar Carbon Capture Gamble

39 implied HN points • 20 Aug 23
  1. The Biden administration is investing billions in technologies to remove carbon dioxide from the air, but this may not be an efficient solution due to the high energy requirements.
  2. Removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere could require as much energy as was released when fossil fuels were burned, leading to a cycle of wasted effort and expenditure.
  3. Current Direct Air Capture projects show disproportionate energy and resource usage compared to the minimal impact on reducing carbon emissions, raising questions about the effectiveness of these solutions.

Hound Me Down the Highway

39 implied HN points • 21 May 23
  1. The poem describes a journey on the highway with vivid imagery of blackbirds, semis, and a church van.
  2. Symbols like a hellish red sunset and an eye-patched car add layers of mystery and intrigue to the narrative.
  3. The theme of faith and persistence is woven throughout the story, culminating in the eerie pursuit on the highway.

Corporate America is rebranding ESG

39 implied HN points • 11 Aug 23
  1. Corporate America is moving away from using the term 'ESG' in their communications, but their initiatives are still ongoing
  2. Anti-ESG sentiment is growing politically, with legislation introduced in multiple states and extreme weather impacting labor and the economy
  3. Businesses are focusing on more specific and clear language to define their ESG initiatives, emphasizing tangible results and performance

Climate scientists admit they have a 90% chance of being wrong about Arctic sea ice

39 implied HN points • 05 Oct 23
  1. Arctic sea ice has been declining, and climate scientists predicted it might disappear by 2040 due to a potential ice-albedo feedback.
  2. Recent research suggests that changes in atmospheric circulation and Arctic cloud cover play a significant role in Arctic sea ice decline.
  3. Despite predictions, Arctic sea ice has actually shown a recovery since 2007, leading to a 90% chance that climate scientists' projections were incorrect.

The EV Jobs Myth A transition to an all-electric-car future won’t mean less labor but more—much of it overseas.

39 implied HN points • 22 Sep 23
  1. Transitioning to an all-electric-car future will actually mean more labor, not less, with much of it taking place overseas.
  2. The complexity of electric vehicles can lead to more labor per vehicle in the manufacturing supply chain compared to traditional vehicles.
  3. Creating an all-electric-car future involves unprecedented government interventions, offshoring of labor, and misallocation of capital, likely resulting in economic disruption and bankruptcies.

The WSJ Editorial Board writes, Governors in the Northeast are lobbying the White House to bail out their states’ offshore wind projects, which have hit a gale of ballooning costs.

39 implied HN points • 22 Sep 23
  1. Governors in the Northeast are seeking federal bailouts for their offshore wind projects due to significantly increased costs.
  2. There are challenges in offshore wind deployment related to inflated prices of equipment and ships, the lack of specialized vessels for assembly, and demands for higher consumer payments.
  3. Government policies driving the energy transition may not make economic sense and could burden consumers with additional costs.

GOVERNMENT Continental's Harold Hamm on the future of the energy industry: 'We've got to be smarter' M. Scott Carter The Oklahoman Harold Hamm, chairman and chief executive officer (CEO) of Continent

39 implied HN points • 26 Sep 23
  1. The oil and gas industry is expected to remain significant for the next hundred years, indicating a long-term reliance on petroleum-based energy.
  2. It is crucial for the United States to develop a smart energy policy to ensure global welfare and address the persistent energy demands.
  3. According to Harold Hamm, drilling restrictions on federal lands have led to increased energy costs, emphasizing the importance of efficient permitting processes.

Doug Sheridan Says:

39 implied HN points • 17 Aug 23
  1. Trust in science and journalism is vital for public credibility and acceptance of research findings.
  2. The speed at which data is published without peer review can harm the quality of scientific discourse and lead to misinformation.
  3. Scientists must be vigilant in upholding rigorous research practices and addressing issues to maintain public trust in science.

Renewable Energy? Microsoft Advertises for a Nuclear Data Center Project Leader

39 implied HN points • 30 Sep 23
  1. Microsoft is seeking a Principal Program Manager for Nuclear Technology to work on a nuclear data center project, indicating a shift away from renewable energy.
  2. Bill Gates and Microsoft have moved towards nuclear power due to concerns about the limitations of renewable energy technologies.
  3. A deal between Microsoft and Constellation Energy shows a commitment to using nuclear power for data centers, signaling a departure from previous renewable energy approaches.

The Mirage of Fossil Fuel Subsidies: Unraveling the IMF’s Dubious Claims

39 implied HN points • 15 Sep 23
  1. The IMF's claim of $7 trillion in fossil fuel subsidies contrasts starkly with estimates from other reputable institutions like the IEA and the International Institute for Sustainable Development.
  2. Subsidies are government expenditures meant to support specific sectors or demographics and can vary widely in nature, from transparent price supports to opaque industry favors.
  3. The IMF's inclusion of 'implicit' subsidies for fossil fuels, which account for costs like global warming, fails to consider the positive impacts of fossil fuel use, such as the 'greening' effect of carbon dioxide on Earth's vegetated lands.

Offshore Wind: The Boondoggle with All Pain, No Gain!

39 implied HN points • 02 Jun 23
  1. Offshore wind electricity generation may not significantly reduce CO2 emissions as commonly assumed.
  2. Introducing offshore wind could actually lead to increased fossil fuel emissions due to the inefficiencies of gas-fired power plants.
  3. The justification for building expensive offshore wind projects based on reducing CO2 emissions may not hold as the impact on emissions could be minimal or even negative.

‘Arbitrary And Capricious’: Federal Judge Blocks Biden’s Efforts To Restrict Gulf Oil Drilling

39 implied HN points • 25 Sep 23
  1. A federal judge blocked Biden's attempts to restrict oil drilling in the Gulf of Mexico due to procedural issues and being 'arbitrary and capricious.'
  2. The court set a deadline for the Department of the Interior to hold the sale with the restored acreage by September 30th.
  3. Industry stakeholders argued that the proposed restrictions on oil and gas vessels in the Gulf could actually increase emissions and pose safety risks.

Pseudoscience, Greed, And Nihilism Behind Disinfo On Climate Change And Fires

39 implied HN points • 30 Aug 23
  1. Climate change is linked to devastating fires but may not be the sole cause, as factors like human activities and land management play significant roles.
  2. The area burned by fires has actually decreased since 2003, contradicting the common belief that fires are worsening due to climate change.
  3. Efforts like selective logging, prescribed burning, and prompt response to fires can help reduce the risk and impact of wildfires, highlighting the importance of proper forest management.

FCC to reintroduce rules protecting net neutrality

39 implied HN points • 26 Sep 23
  1. The FCC plans to reintroduce rules protecting net neutrality by designating internet services as 'essential telecommunications,' aiming to prevent blocking and slowing down of websites.
  2. The proposal reflects the ongoing debate about internet regulation and the importance of reliable internet access, especially highlighted during the Covid-19 pandemic.
  3. The draft rules seek to regulate ISPs under Title II, similar to the 2015 rules upheld but later reversed, sparking concerns about potential legal challenges and industry opposition.