Axios

The Energy Department on Thursday authorized liquefied natural gas exports to major markets from the planned second phase of the Port Arthur LNG project in Texas.

Why it matters: These approvals are vital for companies and investors to move ahead with building multi-billion dollar export terminals.

The Supreme Court unanimously decided Thursday to limit environmental reviews for major infrastructure projects in a case that has profound implications for President Trump's "energy dominance" agenda.

Why it matters: The justices' decision reduces the scope of reviews under the National Environmental Policy Act to focus only on immediate impacts.

Businesses closed, canceled or downsized over $14 billion worth of U.S. low-carbon manufacturing and energy generation projects so far this year, per a new summary of tracking data from the nonprofit group E2.

Why it matters: The pullback comes amid "rising fears over the future of federal clean energy tax credits and policy," as budget legislation advances, the group said.

Chevron's young business to build gas-fired plants that directly supply data centers is "moving very quickly," and final agreements with hyperscalers could come soon, Chevron New Energies president Jeff Gustavson tells Axios.

Why it matters: Chevron's — and rival Exxon's — plunge into behind-the-meter power for data centers shows how the oil supermajors are moving to capitalize on AI's powerful energy thirst.

Texas, Florida and Oklahoma are America's lightning capitals, per weather data firm Vaisala Xweather.

Why it matters: Aside from the immediate danger to people, aircraft and infrastructure, lightning can spark wildfires — and the number of strikes is predicted to increase amid climate change, researchers have found.

Energy prices are plunging, a boost for consumers and businesses alike — and a key White House talking point, too.

Why it matters: Lower oil and gasoline prices could offset some of the consumer pain if prices on a slew of other goods go up as a result of the trade wars.

• But it likely won't be enough to entirely shield the economy from the tariff shock.

The difference between trade wars and trade peace (or something close) could sway global oil demand by millions of barrels per day this decade, the research firm Wood Mackenzie finds.

Why it matters: Its oil estimates are part of a wider report that shows how trade policy is a powerful variable that will shape the energy future.

Summers are getting warmer nearly nationwide, a recently updated analysis finds.

Why it matters: Hotter summers are one of the most tangible ways we're experiencing climate change — and they're a health risk for vulnerable groups like children, pregnant women, the elderly and homeless people.