Today’s Climate: May 10, 2010

Lieberman on Climate Bill: ‘I Think We’ve Got a Real Shot at This’ (The Hill)

Sen. Joe Lieberman (I-Conn.) said Sunday that the massive Gulf of Mexico oil spill helps make the case for passage of the climate and energy bill that he’s rolling out May 12 with Sen. John Kerry (D-Mass.).

Will BP’s Washington Connections Help It Now? (AP)

It appears that whatever clout BP has accrued in Washington, the oil company is unlikely to get delicate handling from lawmakers investigating the oil rig disaster when oversight hearings begin this week on Capitol Hill.

BP Investor Sues Directors for Lapses Over Gulf of Mexico Spill (Bloomberg)

A BP investor has sued the company’s board of directors on claims its pursuit of profits at the expense of safety led to the Gulf of Mexico oil spill that could cost the company billions of dollars.

Expect No Global Climate Deal This Year: Indian Minister (AP)

The chance of a global climate agreement this year is remote because the U.S. and China are unwilling to make more commitments during the talks, India’s environment minister said Sunday.

Australian PM’s Poll Ratings Dive after Mining Tax (Reuters)

Australian PM Kevin Rudd’s approval rating has fallen to a record low months from elections he had seemed certain to win, his government being hit over a planned mining tax that is clouding jobs and investment.

China Longyuan to Spend $13 Billion to Lead Wind Power League (Bloomberg)

China Longyuan Power Group plans to spend about $13 billion over the next five years to become the world’s No. 1 wind-power producer as global demand for clean energy increases.

Wind Farm Power Grid Advances (AP)

A Montana renewable energy company says it has the backing of 10 wind farm developers to pursue a sprawling power collection grid serving Montana, North Dakota and Alberta.

Greenland Glacier Slide Speeds 220% in Summer (Reuters)

A glacier in Greenland slides up to 220% faster toward the sea in summer than in winter, and global warming could mean a wider acceleration that would raise sea levels, according to a study published Sunday.

Water Levels Down in Saint Lawrence Seaway (AFP)

Seasonal water levels in the Saint Lawrence seaway — a major North American shipping corridor — have reached their lowest point in 40 years, the Quebec hydro center warned Friday. The news follows one of the warmest Canadian winters on record, in which very little snow fell.

New Guide Highlights Potential for Skyscraper Wind Turbines (BusinessGreen)

A new report is attempting to challenge the misconception that wind turbines do not work in cities with guidance on how to effectively install wind turbines on tall buildings.