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

Lawsuit Accuses U.S. Shale of Cartel Behavior ByCharles Kennedy- Jan 16, 2024, 1:30 PM CST

19 implied HN points ā€¢ 17 Jan 24
  1. A lawsuit in the U.S. accuses American oil and gas producers of price-fixing by conspiring to reduce production.
  2. The lawsuit targets nine companies, including Hess, Pioneer Natural Resources, and Occidental Petroleum.
  3. The class-action lawsuit demands a court order against anti-competitive business practices and monetary compensation for gas purchasers in multiple states.

White House Hosts First Session For Bidenā€™s Climate Propaganda Corps, WRITTEN BY NICK POPE ON JAN 16, 2024. POSTED IN LATEST NEWS

19 implied HN points ā€¢ 16 Jan 24
  1. The White House conducted the first information session for President Biden's American Climate Corps program to promote it and gather feedback from potential participants.
  2. The ACC aims to train thousands of Americans for green jobs, emphasize social justice, and collaborate with labor unions and non-profit organizations.
  3. The ACC program, established by executive action, can be easily dissolved or continued by future administrations through executive orders.

Status Report From Another Would Be "Climate Leader," The UK January 15, 2024/ Francis Menton

19 implied HN points ā€¢ 16 Jan 24
  1. Not every place can be a 'climate leader,' as only a select few can truly set the path for green energy initiatives.
  2. While the UK has made significant strides in renewable energy infrastructure, its progress hasn't translated into substantial electricity generation, leading to increased costs and no clear path to net zero emissions.
  3. The UK's efforts in emissions reduction have had minimal impact on the global scale and have not been recognized as successful, highlighting the challenges and shortcomings of their climate leadership.

With pipeline growth booming, US agency in charge of safety struggles to keep up

19 implied HN points ā€¢ 16 Jan 24
  1. The US agency responsible for pipeline safety is struggling to keep up with the booming growth of the pipeline industry, as its funding and resources have not grown to match the expansion.
  2. Federal laws like the 2021 infrastructure law have provided funding for new natural gas distribution lines and tax incentives for carbon capture systems, leading to a surge in new pipeline proposals.
  3. With increased pipeline construction and plans for pipelines carrying CO2, the need for federal inspectors is growing, but the agency in charge has not been adequately staffed or funded, putting more responsibility on state agencies.
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Climate Uncertainty & Risk: the presentation

39 implied HN points ā€¢ 11 Mar 23
  1. There is more disagreement among climate scientists than commonly portrayed, especially on issues like the cause of recent warming and the level of danger posed by warming. This diversity of opinion can actually drive scientific progress.
  2. The IPCC's approach of striving for consensus may have harmed climate science, leading to overconfidence, belief polarization, and a neglect of certain research areas. Embracing dissent and uncertainties is crucial for scientific advancement.
  3. The perception of climate risk has been manipulated by emphasizing extreme weather events and urgency in reducing CO2 emissions. This can overshadow the importance of regional economic development and adaptation in managing climate risks effectively.

UP NEXT: EDMUND BURKE AND THE FOLLY OF CLIMATE ā€œLEADERSHIPā€, By Benjamin Zycher

19 implied HN points ā€¢ 15 Jan 24
  1. British energy policies since 2008 have led to high energy costs and economic decline, with net zero policies proving devastating for ordinary citizens.
  2. Achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions in the UK would have an almost negligible impact on global temperatures, raising questions on the effectiveness and cost-benefit of such policies.
  3. Lessons can be learned from the failures of British climate and energy policies to avoid similar detrimental outcomes in the United States, highlighting the importance of informed decision-making and market understanding.

Biden Admin Issues New ā€˜Punitiveā€™ Natural Gas Tax, Part Of Its War On Energy

19 implied HN points ā€¢ 15 Jan 24
  1. The Biden administration has introduced a new natural gas tax on fossil fuel producers to reduce methane emissions, with the initial charge set at $900 per metric ton.
  2. Environmental groups and Democrats support the tax as a move to combat climate change and protect the environment, while the fossil fuel industry opposes it as a punitive measure.
  3. The EPA's new regulatory proposal complements previous regulations targeting methane emissions and aims to encourage industry innovation while reducing wasteful emissions.

Supreme Court set for pivotal cases that could claw back federal administrative power BY RACHEL FRAZIN AND ZACH SCHONFELD - 01/14/24 5:00 PM ET

19 implied HN points ā€¢ 15 Jan 24
  1. The Supreme Court is considering pivotal cases that could reduce federal administrative power by questioning deference to federal agencies' interpretations of ambiguous laws.
  2. The outcome of these cases could impact the ability of presidential administrations to enact regulations related to pollution, climate change, consumer protection, and more without explicit authorization from Congress.
  3. The debate over Chevron deference raises concerns about the balance of power between the executive branch, federal agencies, and the judiciary, with implications for future regulatory actions and legal challenges.

FWW Organizes Anti-CO2 ā€œFrackingā€ Protest at NY Gov.ā€™s NYC Office ANTI-DRILLING/FOSSIL FUEL | HYDRAULIC FRACTURING | INDUSTRYWIDE ISSUES | NEW YORK | STATEWIDE NY

19 implied HN points ā€¢ 14 Jan 24
  1. Southern Tier Solutions' proposal isn't traditional fracking; it uses CO2 instead of water and sand.
  2. Big Green groups like Food & Water Watch organized protests against the proposal, citing concerns over water, communities, and the climate.
  3. Some individuals and organizations are urging Governor Hochul to ban CO2 fracking, expressing concerns over the environmental and health impacts of the project.

US gas-fired capacity to grow, even under 95% carbon reduction scenario: NREL

19 implied HN points ā€¢ 13 Jan 24
  1. US gas-fired capacity is projected to grow by 200 GW through 2050 even with a 95% carbon reduction scenario, showcasing the importance of fossil fuels for grid reliability during peak demand.
  2. National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) modeling suggests a significant increase in U.S. solar and wind capacity by 2050 under a 'mid-case' scenario based on existing energy policies.
  3. Fossil-fueled power plants without carbon capture equipment are expected to produce 14% of U.S. electricity by 2050, but would account for 47% of total U.S. capacity under the mid-case scenario, highlighting the transition challenges in the energy sector.

The FT writes, rich countries are using the green transition as an excuse to boost their own economies at the expense of developing ones, exploiting outdated World Trade Organization rulesā€¦.

19 implied HN points ā€¢ 12 Jan 24
  1. Rich countries are leveraging the green transition to benefit their economies, disadvantaging developing nations due to outdated trade rules.
  2. Limited fiscal capabilities hinder developing nations from subsidizing like developed countries, leading to trade restrictions or taxes.
  3. International trade changes and industrial policies in developed countries are creating obstacles for developing nations to compete in the market.

2024 World Economic Forum Davos Meeting to Focus on ā€œRestoring Trustā€

19 implied HN points ā€¢ 12 Jan 24
  1. The 2024 World Economic Forum Davos Meeting will focus on 'Restoring Trust' at three levels: the future, societies, and nations.
  2. The WEF is facing criticism and distrust due to past actions like promoting Greta Thunberg and the Great Reset agenda.
  3. The WEF's proposed Great Reset agenda includes components like fair market outcomes, shared goal investments, and harnessing Fourth Industrial Revolution innovations.

Axios Foments Fear That Climate Change Is Changing The Polar Vortex, By Anthony Watts

19 implied HN points ā€¢ 12 Jan 24
  1. The idea that climate change is altering the polar vortex and causing extreme weather events is not supported by current scientific evidence.
  2. The term 'polar vortex' has been used for severe weather events since the 1850s, long before the concept of human-caused climate change emerged.
  3. Media exaggerations linking the polar vortex to climate change can mislead the public, as scientific evidence does not support these claims.

Per the WSJ, following years of simmering investor backlash, political pressure and legal threats over ESG efforts

19 implied HN points ā€¢ 12 Jan 24
  1. Business leaders are reevaluating how they talk about ESG initiatives to avoid regulatory and political challenges.
  2. CEOs are advised to be more specific and achievable in their ESG goals instead of making grand statements.
  3. The discussion around ESG is shifting towards using clearer language like 'responsible business' and focusing on practical actions like reducing water use.

The Battle Over E.S.G. Heads to the White House

39 implied HN points ā€¢ 04 Mar 23
  1. President Biden is expected to use his first veto to protect E.S.G. (environmental, social, corporate governance) considerations in retirement plans.
  2. The battle over E.S.G. has turned into a political showdown, with Senate Republicans blocking a Labor Department rule and President Biden likely to veto it.
  3. The debate over E.S.G. issues will continue, with Republicans using it for political leverage and investment firms concerned about potential profit impacts.

German dam operators to overfill their reservoirs before winter and exacerbated the massive December floods

19 implied HN points ā€¢ 10 Jan 24
  1. The December floods in Germany were worsened by dam operators overfilling their reservoirs before winter due to misconceptions about permanent drought caused by climate change.
  2. Contrary to predictions, Germany experienced a very wet 2023, leading to groundwater recovery, serious flooding, and a shift from drought warnings to concerns about increased future flooding due to climate change.
  3. The mismanagement of dams by hoarding water and not releasing it during wet periods left reservoirs full, resulting in less capacity to mitigate flooding during a significantly rainy winter.

Electrify Everything: Dreaming the Impossible Dream By Kip Hansen

19 implied HN points ā€¢ 10 Jan 24
  1. Electrifying almost everything is a formidable task and may be physically impossible in the short-term due to the challenges of updating the power grid.
  2. The US lacks sufficient transformers, raw materials, skilled laborers, and time to meet the demands of electrifying everything.
  3. Electricity currently costs over three times more than natural gas per million BTUs, showing a significant cost difference that affects consumers.

The inability to generate acceptable returns is impeding the switch to renewable energy

19 implied HN points ā€¢ 10 Jan 24
  1. The inability to generate acceptable returns is a major challenge hindering the transition to renewable energy, raising questions about the profitability of renewable projects compared to traditional fossil fuel industries.
  2. Price is not the only yardstick for assessing the success of renewable energy investments; anticipating profit is crucial and governs investment decisions more than price fluctuations.
  3. Investments in renewable energy have been increasing globally, outpacing those in dirty sources, indicating a significant shift towards cleaner alternatives despite ongoing challenges such as subsidies for fossil fuels.

The Importance of Supporting Real Science in the Battle Against Narrative Science

19 implied HN points ā€¢ 09 Jan 24
  1. Real science should be supported over narrative science, as narratives can be misleading and harmful.
  2. There's a disconnect between what the science says and what is portrayed in mainstream media, highlighting the influence of 'activist scientists.'
  3. The integrity of science is crucial, with a call for trustworthy results, replicable data, and transparent methodology.

As Climate Lawfare Heats Up, Concerns Grow Over Impartiality Of Judges, WRITTEN BY KEVIN KILLOUGH ON JAN 9, 2024. POSTED IN LATEST NEWS

19 implied HN points ā€¢ 09 Jan 24
  1. Federal judges are making rulings sympathetic to the idea that climate change is a serious threat to humanity, prompting legal actions against fossil fuel industries.
  2. Climate activists are initiating multiple lawsuits to hold governments and industries accountable for carbon dioxide emissions.
  3. Concerns exist over potential bias as climate activists train judges and influence legal decisions related to climate change litigation.

The Greatest Scientific Fraud Of All Time ā€” Part XXXI

19 implied HN points ā€¢ 09 Jan 24
  1. Data on hottest months and years may not be accurate due to extensive adjustments by computer algorithms, lowering earlier year temperatures and raising current ones.
  2. Independent researchers are identifying significant adjustments in temperature data from various stations worldwide, potentially revealing a pattern of artificial warming trends.
  3. New software is being developed to quickly analyze unadjusted and adjusted data for temperature stations worldwide, showing discrepancies between the original and adjusted records.

Wanted: Global Leadership with Sound Economics for all 8 Billion people

79 implied HN points ā€¢ 14 Aug 22
  1. In the current political landscape, finding rational energy thinkers is challenging due to outdated ideas and social theories.
  2. Global leaders need to balance environmental concerns with practical political and economic planning for their countries.
  3. Robert Habeck from Germany is praised for addressing energy problems through pragmatic strategies, which may serve as a positive example for the EU.

EPA Published Research Related to the Hydraulic Fracturing Study

19 implied HN points ā€¢ 07 Jan 24
  1. EPA conducted independent research resulting in over 25 peer-reviewed research papers and journal articles supporting the final assessment of the Hydraulic Fracturing Study.
  2. The research includes analysis of existing data, case studies, laboratory studies, and scenario evaluations regarding hydraulic fracturing.
  3. Toxicity studies were conducted to estimate potential toxicity of chemicals associated with hydraulic fracturing operations using Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationship Modeling, providing valuable insights.

Hydraulic Fracturing for Oil and Gas: Impacts from the Hydraulic Fracturing Water Cycle on Drinking Water Resources in the United States (Final Report)

19 implied HN points ā€¢ 07 Jan 24
  1. The final report highlights the potential impacts of hydraulic fracturing activities on drinking water resources in the US.
  2. The report details the stages in the hydraulic fracturing water cycle where impacts on drinking water can occur, such as water acquisition, chemical mixing, well injection, produced water handling, and wastewater disposal.
  3. Despite limitations in data and uncertainties, the EPA's report helps enhance scientific understanding of how hydraulic fracturing can affect drinking water resources, assisting in decision-making for protection measures.

EPA's Study of Hydraulic Fracturing and Its Potential Impact on Drinking Water Resources

19 implied HN points ā€¢ 07 Jan 24
  1. The EPA's final report on hydraulic fracturing and drinking water resources in the US identifies conditions where impacts can be more frequent or severe.
  2. Scientific evidence suggests that hydraulic fracturing activities can impact drinking water resources under certain circumstances.
  3. Data gaps and uncertainties limit the ability to fully assess the severity and frequency of impacts on drinking water resources from hydraulic fracturing activities.

The U.S. Has Billions for Wind and Solar Projects. Good Luck Plugging Them In.

39 implied HN points ā€¢ 26 Feb 23
  1. An explosion in proposed clean energy ventures has overwhelmed the system for connecting new power sources to homes and businesses.
  2. Delays in the approval process for energy projects can last for years, causing some developers to abandon their plans altogether.
  3. The volume of wind, solar, and battery projects has strained the grid's capacity and created challenges in making necessary infrastructure upgrades to support clean energy expansion.

Paris Discord

39 implied HN points ā€¢ 25 Feb 23
  1. The Paris Climate Control Conference was described as a complete disaster with attendees unable to agree on anything substantive.
  2. There are different groups at the conference with varying beliefs - some focused on climate change concerns while others prioritize improving the quality of life for billions of people living in substandard conditions.
  3. The 2015 Paris conference was likened to an ugly beauty contest, showcasing the challenges faced in reaching consensus on important global issues.

The Real Cause Of Climate Grief WILLIAM M BRIGGS

19 implied HN points ā€¢ 05 Jan 24
  1. The concept of "climate grief" is gaining popularity as an excuse for selfishness and a lack of personal responsibility regarding climate change.
  2. There is a risk of individuals absorbing propaganda about climate change to the extent that it corrupts their ability to reason on the topic.
  3. Some individuals may use the idea of climate change to alleviate existential voids and seek meaning in their lives.

A $3Trillion Burden Biden regulators spew out red tape at a historic pace.

19 implied HN points ā€¢ 03 Jan 24
  1. Biden regulators are rapidly creating red tape, adding to a $3 trillion burden of federal regulation.
  2. Federal regulations have a significant economic impact, costing an estimated $3.079 trillion in 2022 alone, disproportionately affecting small businesses.
  3. Dallas is emerging as a burgeoning financial center, with major banks and asset managers establishing new campuses and creating job opportunities through expansion.

CLIMATE MODELSOPINIONTECHNOLOGY AI Researchers Pushing Their Value to Climate Activists

19 implied HN points ā€¢ 03 Jan 24
  1. AI is being suggested as a tool to help cut greenhouse gas emissions and improve climate models by introducing machine learning and generative AI.
  2. There is a need for checks and balances to ensure fairness and equity in the implementation of AI in climate change solutions to avoid biases and risks.
  3. Some concerns are raised about the potential for AI researchers to tweak systems to produce politically correct results, leading to questions about the practical value of AI constrained by such checks and balances.

2023 energy review from A to Z

19 implied HN points ā€¢ 03 Jan 24
  1. Billions of people depend on products made from crude oil that did not exist before the 1800s.
  2. Climate policies often overlook the fact that wind and solar energy cannot produce products like fossil fuels can.
  3. The usage of crude oil is essential for manufacturing products and fuels necessary for modern economies and lifestyles.

DHL Enables Customers to Address Scope 3 Emissions for Shipping with Sustainable Aviation Fuel

39 implied HN points ā€¢ 19 Feb 23
  1. DHL's GoGreen Plus service allows customers to tackle Scope 3 emissions in shipping by using sustainable aviation fuel.
  2. Customers can choose to achieve tailor-made emissions reductions and decide on the amount of sustainable aviation fuel to use.
  3. DHL's Sustainability Roadmap focuses on increasing the use of sustainable aviation fuels, with a target of 30% SAF blending for all air transport by 2030.

Today is My Past

39 implied HN points ā€¢ 19 Feb 23
  1. The world we see today is shaped by our past experiences, both good and bad.
  2. It's important to remember both our worst moments and our best moments in life.
  3. Our past experiences play a significant role in defining who we are in the present.

California Dreaming

39 implied HN points ā€¢ 19 Feb 23
  1. California is undergoing a major shift in its energy grid from fossil fuels to renewable sources like wind and solar, while pushing electrification in transportation.
  2. There are concerns about potential blackouts and grid failure due to the instability caused by transitioning too fast from fossil fuels to intermittent renewable sources in California.
  3. The transition to renewable energy in California will require a significant increase in grid capacity, mainly relying on solar power, and will involve massive costs for storage, infrastructure, and replacements.

Judge Resurrects Zombie Kidsā€™ Climate Case: Expect More Eating of Brains

19 implied HN points ā€¢ 01 Jan 24
  1. Judge Aiken revived the 'Kids Climate Case,' setting the stage for potential Supreme Court involvement in climate-related lawsuits.
  2. The case is known for its previous dismissal due to lack of standing, and its revival is seen as risky for inviting a broader legal judgment.
  3. Coverage of this case is expected to intensify with a focus on Climate advocacy and legal battles.

Climate Sanity Spokespeople

19 implied HN points ā€¢ 01 Jan 24
  1. The Climate Sanity Spokespeople support global energy fairness, practical environmentalism, and electricity abundance for all.
  2. The group includes a diverse range of experts like economists, scientists, engineers, and policymakers.
  3. There are many influential and knowledgeable individuals advocating for a balanced approach to climate and energy issues.

Speaker on BBC Verify Correspondentā€™s Six Month Sabbatical Course Has Called for Jailing Climate Contrarians

19 implied HN points ā€¢ 01 Jan 24
  1. Climate journalism courses funded by billionaires may promote extreme narratives and narratives that suppress opposition.
  2. The course aims to instill fearmongering tactics and promote the 'settled' science of climate change without room for questioning.
  3. Some climate activists linked to the course have advocated for fines and imprisonment for climate contrarians, pushing a narrative of fear and censorship.

U.S. oil production hit a record under Biden. He seldom mentions it.

19 implied HN points ā€¢ 01 Jan 24
  1. U.S. oil production hit a record under Biden, more than any country ever, keeping gas prices down and affecting geopolitics.
  2. The President doesn't frequently acknowledge this feat, navigating a complex political landscape with young, climate-focused voters wanting actions to keep oil in the ground.
  3. The boost in oil production may offer economic relief and political advantages for Biden's 2024 reelection, even though it contrasts with some environmental policies.