While some are winding down for the holidays, the Department of Energy is working overtime to keep the lights on and electricity prices affordable. DOE yesterday ordered a Washington state coal plant to delay retirement and continue operating through the winter marking the second time it has used emergency authority to keep coal generation online. Secretary Chris Wright cited reliability and affordability concerns as its reasons for making the move.

For a closer look at the affordability question, check out our Count on Coal blog today, where we show how grids that have access to coal generation are better able to temper soaring electricity costs.

And speaking of reliability and affordability, the House yesterday passed the "Power Plant Reliability Act," which would grant the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission authority to require utilities to continue operating power plants if their retirement would threaten grid reliability.

And the Wall Street Journal Editorial Board writes today on the urgent need for NEPA and permitting reform. Definitely one to check out.