Senate Nears Approval of Wide-Ranging Energy Bill

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate is poised to pass a wide-ranging energy bill that would promote a variety of energy sources and speed federal approval of projects to export liquefied natural gas to Europe and Asia.

Senators revived debate on the bill Tuesday after it was delayed for more than two months amid a partisan dispute over an emergency measure to help fix and replace lead-contaminated pipes in Flint, Michigan.

The bill would boost renewables such as solar and wind power, as well as natural gas, hydropower and geothermal energy. It also would update building codes to increase efficiency and strengthen electric-grid safety standards, among dozens of provisions.

Senate passage is expected as soon as Wednesday. The measure must be reconciled with a House-passed bill that promotes oil and other fossil fuels.

(Story by: Matthew Daly, The Associated Press)