Connecticut municipalities are proposing a regional collaborative approach to address housing needs as an alternative to the vetoed HB 5002 legislation. The new framework would eliminate controversial mandates while allowing towns to work together through councils of government to meet housing goals and share responsibility for development across regions. Source: hartfordbusiness.com

The Trump administration has reached a first-of-its-kind programmatic agreement with Connecticut DOT to streamline environmental reviews and cut red tape for transportation projects. The deal is expected to accelerate schedules by at least six weeks for approximately 90 construction projects annually, including major initiatives like the Gold Star Memorial Bridge and New Haven Bus Rapid Transit system. Source: msn.com

Federal agencies are scaling back scientific integrity policies designed to protect researchers from political interference in climate and environmental studies. The changes affect how federal scientists conduct and communicate research related to energy policy, environmental regulations, and infrastructure planning. Source: washingtonpost.com

Industry expert argues that skilled trades offer the most secure career path in an era of automation and remote work, as these jobs require hands-on expertise and physical presence that cannot be replicated by AI or performed remotely. Electrical work, construction, and other trades remain essential and irreplaceable. Source: forconstructionpros.com

Google has partnered with Kairos Power to develop 500 megawatts of advanced small modular nuclear reactors by 2035, with the first unit coming online by 2030. The deal represents a major tech company investment in clean, reliable baseload power to meet growing AI and data center energy demands. Source: foxbusiness.com

New York utilities are implementing grid-enhancing technologies to improve transmission efficiency and reliability while reducing costs for ratepayers. These advanced systems optimize power flow, reduce congestion, and enhance grid monitoring capabilities without requiring extensive new infrastructure construction. Source: utilitydive.com

Grid operators are deploying synchronous compensators and advanced technologies to maintain grid stability as renewable energy sources increase. These rotating machines provide essential grid inertia and frequency control that traditional power plants once supplied, helping prevent blackouts in high-renewable grids. Source: bloomberg.com