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

Texas grid reaches record high generation as wind power fails

39 implied HN points • 05 Aug 23
  1. Texas grid set record high power generation due to natural gas outperforming wind power in extreme summer heat
  2. Reliable power sources like natural gas, coal, and nuclear are crucial for grid stability when renewable energy sources like wind fail
  3. Climate-resilient energy and power systems are needed for critical infrastructure to prevent weather-related power failures

BlackRock and Vanguard were once ESG’s biggest proponents–now they seem to be reversing course

39 implied HN points • 13 Sep 23
  1. BlackRock and Vanguard are shifting their approach to ESG investing, rejecting more shareholder proposals on environmental and social issues.
  2. The shift by these financial giants raises questions about the true motivation behind their previous support for ESG initiatives - ideology or market demand.
  3. Investors should pay attention to the actions of industry leaders like BlackRock and Vanguard, as they may signal a broader trend towards prioritizing traditional financial strategies over ESG.

New Paper Claims Antarctica Had The ‘Most Intense Heat Wave Ever Recorded’. It Didn’t

39 implied HN points • 27 Sep 23
  1. An article claimed that Antarctica had the most intense heat wave ever recorded, but in reality, the alleged temperature spike was not actually warm.
  2. The definition of a heat wave was abused in the research paper that the article was based on, leading to misleading claims about the temperature anomaly.
  3. The so-called heat wave in Antarctica did not meet the criteria of a heat wave by meteorological standards, raising concerns about both the accuracy of the report and the scientific rigor of the paper.

Podcaster Profile: Robert Bryce & The Power Hungry Podcast

39 implied HN points • 03 Jun 23
  1. Robert Bryce is an accomplished author, journalist, film producer, and public speaker, known for his insightful documentaries and books on electricity, energy politics, and global innovation.
  2. Bryce's documentaries like 'Juice' and books such as 'Power Hungry' and 'Smaller Faster Lighter Denser Cheaper' offer valuable insights on the challenges and future of energy consumption and innovation.
  3. The human story of electricity and its impact on global development, wealth, and societal progress is a central theme in Robert Bryce's works, highlighting the critical role of reliable electricity in shaping modern civilization.

Giant utility rejects net zero power, big fight follows

39 implied HN points • 14 Sep 23
  1. Dominion Energy is not planning to comply with Virginia's net zero power target by 2045, sparking a big fight and legal proceedings with the State Corporation Commission.
  2. The utility wants to preserve existing carbon-emitting units and expand natural gas-fired resources due to an increased load forecast, raising concerns from green groups.
  3. The situation at Dominion Energy in Virginia could set a national precedent in the energy sector, making it important for other utilities, States, and interest groups to monitor closely.
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National Science Teaching Assn. Rejects Scientific Method re Climate

39 implied HN points • 03 May 23
  1. The National Science Teaching Association's position on climate change restricts discussion and dissenting views, contradicting the principles of the scientific method.
  2. The association's approach is considered politically correct and narrow-minded, hindering honest exploration and debate among educators.
  3. Despite facing censorship and being escorted out, members of the CO2 Coalition found many educators eager for unbiased scientific information and open to questioning climate alarmism.

Environmental Justice for Whom? Pennsylvania Goes PC!

39 implied HN points • 01 Aug 23
  1. Environmental justice is viewed as a phony concept that does not truly benefit the intended communities, but rather hinders progress for certain interests.
  2. Pennsylvania has adopted environmental justice measures, defining EJ areas based on poverty rates and minority populations, leading to peculiar classifications like some prisons.
  3. Environmental justice policies in practice often result in extra bureaucratic processes and costs for projects, offering little actual benefit to the communities they aim to help.

IBM Adds Scope 3 Emissions Analysis Capabilities to ESG Data Platform

39 implied HN points • 24 Sep 23
  1. IBM has enhanced its ESG data platform by adding Scope 3 emissions analysis capabilities, improving the platform's ability to analyze organizations' greenhouse gas emissions.
  2. Companies globally are facing regulatory pressure to report on their Scope 3 emissions, which are often challenging to track and report as they encompass areas outside of direct company control.
  3. The integration of natural language processing in IBM's ESG data platform is helping organizations efficiently manage and calculate Scope 3 emissions data for ESG reporting.

Hannover Re the latest to leave Net-Zero Insurance Alliance

39 implied HN points • 21 Apr 23
  1. Hannover Re, a major reinsurance company, has decided to leave the Net-Zero Insurance Alliance, joining Munich Re and Zurich.
  2. The Net-Zero Insurance Alliance aimed to transition underwriting portfolios to net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
  3. Hannover Re remains committed to its sustainability strategy and aims to achieve full climate neutrality by 2050, despite leaving the NZIA.

The Green Energy Future Is Arriving Faster Than You Think — Or Not

39 implied HN points • 20 Aug 23
  1. The media is portraying conflicting narratives about the arrival of the green energy future, with some sources emphasizing progress and others highlighting setbacks.
  2. Data from the Energy Information Administration reveals that despite government subsidies, the percentage of energy consumption from fossil fuels in the US has remained consistent, showing little impact from green energy initiatives.
  3. For successful green energy transition, government planners are advised to ensure availability of cheaper alternatives, compelling consumer incentives, and adequate charging infrastructure, emphasizing the need for purposeful and strategic leadership.

Photo Poems

39 implied HN points • 16 May 23
  1. The post is about Photo Poems by Steve Heins.
  2. Stephen Heins shares photo poems on his Substack page.
  3. The post includes various images linked to the Photo Poems.

The WSJ writes, frugal US and European oil-and-gas companies are making it easier for Saudi Arabia and Russia to fund their political maneuvers.

39 implied HN points • 28 Sep 23
  1. Frugal US and European oil-and-gas companies are enabling Saudi Arabia and Russia to fund political maneuvers by not expanding production in response to high energy prices.
  2. Western oil producers like ExxonMobil and Chevron are facing pressure to give cash back to shareholders rather than reinvesting in new projects, affecting overall supply.
  3. OPEC+ is expected to maintain leverage in the oil market due to decreased spending on new production by Western energy companies, potentially leading to higher oil prices and increased reliance on OPEC+.

Biden Administration Is Killing Whales and Covering it Up

39 implied HN points • 29 Sep 23
  1. The Biden Administration is pushing forward with massive offshore wind projects on the East Coast, which are complex industrial structures that may not reduce CO2 emissions or benefit the climate.
  2. Citizen groups are actively opposing the industrialization of the ocean caused by offshore wind projects, especially due to potential harm to endangered species like right whales.
  3. There is a lack of knowledge on how sonar noise impacts whales, with ongoing studies aiming to provide crucial information to guide regulations for both oil and gas and offshore wind development.

Shocking Failures of Climate and Covid Science Highlighted by Critical New Report

39 implied HN points • 13 Sep 23
  1. There are concerns about the collapse of the scientific process in climate and medical fields, with mention of universities abandoning their traditional role of unbiased inquiry.
  2. The report highlights errors, deceptions, and censorship in scientific storytelling, pointing out issues with mainstream media and the BBC's reporting.
  3. Criticism is directed at the misuse of computer models in climate and Covid science, pointing out their inaccuracy in temperature forecasts and emphasizing the difficulty of separating human-induced warming from natural variation.

Billionaire Bloomberg Unleashes Another $500M To Destroy U.S. Coal Industry bloomberg and his jetMedia mogul and failed presidential ca

39 implied HN points • 21 Sep 23
  1. Billionaire Michael Bloomberg pledged $500 million to shut down all U.S. coal plants by 2030, emphasizing the goal to finish the job on coal.
  2. Despite Bloomberg's massive eco-extremist efforts to eradicate the coal industry, he continues to use private jets, emitting high levels of carbon dioxide, which raises concerns about his commitment to fighting climate change.
  3. Critics argue that Bloomberg's actions against the coal industry will mainly hurt middle-class Americans and won't have a significant impact on global temperatures, as global electricity production still heavily relies on fossil fuels like coal.

Climate Activists Defend Spreading Computer Malware to Educate Skeptics

39 implied HN points • 30 Sep 23
  1. Climate activists defended spreading computer malware to educate skeptics by disguising it as a harmless cookie recipe.
  2. Criticism arose towards the activists for resorting to distributing malware, even if their intentions were to raise awareness about climate change.
  3. The decline in interest in the climate panic has led to desperate and extreme actions from some activists, signaling potential radicalization.

The Global Warming Hoax Is a Rerun of a Plot As Old As Mankind

39 implied HN points • 01 Aug 23
  1. Be cautious of the information you consume, as everyone has their own agenda, even if they claim to be noble.
  2. History holds valuable lessons across various aspects of life; seek insights from independent sources and real people.
  3. Question experts and pundits, especially if they have a history of being wrong, as their motivations may not align with truth.

The Multibillion-Dollar Racket That’s Thwarting Safe, Affordable Nuclear Energy

39 implied HN points • 24 Aug 23
  1. The anti-nuclear industry in the U.S. is spending around $2.3 billion per year, which includes big organizations like Sierra Club, League of Conservation Voters, and more.
  2. The financial power of the anti-nuclear movement is significant, with many NGOs actively working against nuclear and hydrocarbon sectors in the U.S.
  3. Pro-nuclear groups are significantly outspent, with the U.S. nuclear industry facing financial challenges and being overshadowed by the anti-industry industry.

California opens the floodgates on Big Oil

39 implied HN points • 18 Sep 23
  1. California filed a major climate lawsuit against Big Oil, setting a powerful precedent for holding fossil fuel companies accountable for their role in climate change
  2. The lawsuit showcases Big Oil's deceptive marketing practices and greenwashing tactics, highlighting the need for greater environmental accountability
  3. This legal action marks a turning point in the fight for climate accountability, showing a growing political momentum in taking on Big Oil

Net Zero Grid Batteries Alone Would Bankrupt America

39 implied HN points • 09 May 23
  1. Advocates for 'net zero' energy claim costs will be low, but the reality is that the U.S. would need a massive amount of materials and infrastructure to achieve this, resulting in incomprehensible costs.
  2. Calculations show that just the batteries needed for 'net zero' energy in the U.S. would cost trillions of dollars, potentially exceeding the entire GDP, and would require vast amounts of minerals extracted through mining.
  3. The proposed transition to clean energy involves manufacturing millions of weather-dependent turbines, billions of solar panels, and endless miles of new transmission lines, impacting the environment and resources on an unprecedented scale.

Last Independence Day

39 implied HN points • 14 May 23
  1. The poem reflects on the author's mother's wish to be cremated and scattered on the Rocky Mountains for her last independence day.
  2. The author reminisces about his mother's roots, upbringing, and love for fireworks on her birthday.
  3. The emotional journey of letting go and fulfilling a promise to scatter the mother's ashes in a place she loved is depicted in the poem.

Nuclear Power is the Answer to Global and Environmental Energy Woes

39 implied HN points • 23 Apr 23
  1. Nuclear power is essential for meeting the increasing demand for energy in the U.S. and globally, as it is carbon-free and supports economic growth.
  2. The U.S. is investing in nuclear technology, with companies developing advanced reactor designs that offer financial benefits and enhanced safety.
  3. Compared to alternatives like renewables, nuclear power is a more sustainable energy option that requires less material use and land, making it crucial for addressing global energy needs.

Demeaning

39 implied HN points • 17 Apr 23
  1. Critics of climate change can face demeaning behavior from activists.
  2. Labels like 'denier' and 'shill' are used to insult those who disagree with climate alarmism.
  3. The author highlights the importance of respectful debate and avoiding demonizing the opposing side.

Our Take, with Doug Sheridan

19 implied HN points • 06 Feb 24
  1. Alternatives to current plans to reduce global emissions are required, not just pointing out shortcomings.
  2. Support for more baseload nuclear, geothermal, hydro power with load-following gas-fired plants is suggested.
  3. Climate activists should consider carbon taxes via national referendums, which could fund energy innovation and other public benefits.

The Lehman moment for the ESG movement

39 implied HN points • 12 Apr 23
  1. Recent bank failures have highlighted weaknesses linked to corporate ESG policies such as climate action and diversity initiatives.
  2. The sustainability image projected by financial institutions may not equate to financial stability, raising concerns about the effectiveness of ESG in ensuring sound business performance.
  3. The potential impact of ESG policies on financial institutions has drawn comparisons to the failed investment bank Lehman Brothers, emphasizing the need for a balance between social responsibility and financial solvency.

THE ECONOMIST: An unrefreshing pause By M. Ray Perryman -

19 implied HN points • 05 Feb 24
  1. Slowing the development of liquefied natural gas (LNG) facilities through moratoriums can have negative effects on the environment, global economy, human sustainability, and geopolitical stability.
  2. The reliance of Europe on Russian natural gas was highlighted during Russia's invasion of Ukraine, making the issue of LNG permits even more crucial.
  3. Developing domestic natural gas resources and maintaining access to global markets is essential to address climate issues, global stability, and human welfare.

Monthly Summary

19 implied HN points • 04 Feb 24
  1. New York has made significant progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions by switching to natural gas and retiring coal plants. Future reductions will be a challenge as zero-emissions resources need to displace fossil fuels.
  2. The New York Cap-and-Invest program faces challenges in implementation, including uncertainty about costs and feasibility. The program may end up causing more problems and adding costs if not properly designed and resourced.
  3. Biased expert advice, such as from Robert Howarth, can adversely impact policies like NYCI. Hiding total costs and inadequate documentation further complicate the transition to clean energy in New York.

In Dallas, EPA casts a net for answers on how pollution from concrete batch plants affects people’s health

19 implied HN points • 04 Feb 24
  1. EPA in Dallas is studying how pollution from concrete plant sites affects public health by researching the impact on air, water, and soil.
  2. Local residents in low-income communities suspect health issues from pollution caused by concrete batch plants and feel ignored by the state.
  3. The EPA's study aims to gather data on the cumulative impact of pollution from clustered industrial sites and hopes to influence future policies on permit decisions.

Harvard Prof Exposes ‘Dangerous’ Conditions Faced Mining Battery Minerals

59 implied HN points • 03 Jan 23
  1. A Harvard professor highlighted the dangerous and heart-wrenching conditions faced by miners extracting minerals for batteries, like cobalt, used in devices and electric vehicles.
  2. Despite the crucial role of minerals like cobalt in technology, the mainstream media often overlooks or downplays the negative impacts of mining on the lives of people, especially in regions like the Congo.
  3. The push for electric vehicles and renewable energy sources brings attention to the ethical concerns surrounding the mining of battery minerals and the need for greater transparency in the supply chain.

Join my chat

19 implied HN points • 03 Feb 24
  1. Stephen Heins has set up a private chat space for subscribers to engage in discussions.
  2. To join the chat, subscribers need to download the Substack app and enable push notifications.
  3. The chat is accessed through the Substack app and provides a platform for Stephen Heins to share prompts and updates with subscribers.

Germans Overwhelmingly Fed Up With Move To Green Energy As Massive Costs Loom

39 implied HN points • 07 Apr 23
  1. A whopping 88% of Germans surveyed believe the move to green energies is unachievable, despite earlier enthusiastic support.
  2. The German government is facing backlash as legislation is proposed to force extensive renovations and heating system upgrades due to the high costs of green energy.
  3. German industry is concerned about potential manufacturing sector exodus due to expected electricity shortages and soaring energy prices.

Massachusetts Offshore Wind Troubles

39 implied HN points • 06 Apr 23
  1. Massachusetts is facing significant challenges with its offshore wind projects, impacting its clean energy goals and potentially leading to higher power prices.
  2. The costs of wind energy have increased rather than decreased, diverging from previous expectations, which is affecting project financing and sustainability.
  3. Avangrid's struggle in Massachusetts sets a precedent that could impact other offshore wind developers and lead to a rush of renegotiations in the industry.

Emissions Pressure Turns Oil Drillers into Grid Drainers

19 implied HN points • 01 Feb 24
  1. Some oil drillers are using gas that would have been flared to generate electricity, contributing to a surge in electricity sales in Texas, New Mexico, and North Dakota.
  2. The US faces grid constraints as it transitions to an electricity-powered economy, with a major obstacle being the expansion of the transmission network to achieve a low-carbon grid by 2035.
  3. Oil drillers are under pressure to reduce emissions, leading them to build their power supply infrastructure, such as gas-power plants, to address the strain on the grid as they shift towards electric-powered operations.

BP’s activist challenge raises some awkward questions -- Simon Mundy, Financial Times

19 implied HN points • 01 Feb 24
  1. BP is facing pressure from activist investors to increase production of fossil fuels and drop green commitments.
  2. Investors are questioning BP's strategy of focusing on renewables, highlighting challenges in profitability compared to traditional oil and gas businesses.
  3. The debate on transitioning to green energy emphasizes the role of government policies in shifting economic incentives towards sustainable practices.

Opinion: African energy leaders must find ways to encourage ongoing oil and gas investments Tom Alweendo, Minister of Mines and Energy, Namibia January 31, 2024

19 implied HN points • 01 Feb 24
  1. African nations face a dilemma where immediate transition to renewable energy could hinder crucial economic benefits derived from fossil fuels.
  2. Despite global environmental calls to abandon fossil fuels, African nations like Namibia are experiencing success with offshore oil and gas investments, indicating the ongoing importance of these resources.
  3. A balanced approach that leverages natural gas resources alongside renewable energy is essential for African countries to drive economic growth, eradicate energy poverty, and facilitate sustainable development.

Microsoft Signs Carbon Removal Deal with Nature-Based Startup Grassroots Carbon Mark Segal January 31, 2024

19 implied HN points • 01 Feb 24
  1. Carbon credits are still proving themselves in the marketplace.
  2. Microsoft partners with Grassroots Carbon for soil carbon drawdown credits from regeneratively managed grasslands, aiming to become carbon negative by 2030.
  3. Grassroots Carbon works with ranchers to reward them for carbon sequestration practices, promoting improved soil health and ecological benefits.

Gas Power Saves Texas from Blackouts, As Wind Power Collapses Again!

59 implied HN points • 27 Dec 22
  1. Gas power played a crucial role in preventing blackouts in Texas as wind power output dropped significantly during a period of high demand.
  2. The emergency order allowed Texas to exceed air pollution limits to boost power generation amid record power demand in the state.
  3. Texas's heavy reliance on gas power capacity was evident in the face of wind power failure, highlighting potential challenges in achieving carbon-free electricity goals.

US Upstream Prepares for Coming LNG Export Wave

19 implied HN points • 31 Jan 24
  1. US upstream sector is gearing up for a surge in LNG exports by making strategic moves to connect American gas supplies to global markets.
  2. Major mergers and acquisitions are reshaping the industry, with companies like Chesapeake Energy and Southwestern Energy merging to enhance competitiveness on an international scale.
  3. Traders are playing a crucial role in connecting buyers and sellers in the North American LNG market, with companies like Trafigura and Gunvor expanding their portfolios and making long-term offtake agreements.

Our Take, by Doug Sheridan

19 implied HN points • 30 Jan 24
  1. Climate scientist Michael Mann has been involved in legal battles against his critics for years, with courts ruling in favor of some critics due to delays in trials and lack of liability for certain media outlets.
  2. Critics of Mann question his statistical methods and the proxies he used in creating the 'hockey stick' graph that represents global temperature changes.
  3. The controversy highlights the importance of allowing robust scientific debates rather than using litigation to suppress differing opinions.

On Misciting Marbury Richard J. Pierce, Jr.

19 implied HN points • 30 Jan 24
  1. The Supreme Court should not make decisions based on incorrect interpretations of legal principles like the famous dictum from Marbury v. Madison.
  2. The petitioner's brief in Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo challenges the Chevron doctrine by misquoting Marbury and extending arguments without proper support.
  3. There is a proposal to replace the Chevron test with the Skidmore test, which suggests considering agency opinions as guidance rather than controlling, to maintain a stable legal regime based on good reasoning and facts.