Articles tagged with "Government and Policy"

Residential electricity rates have increased by 6.6% compared to the previous year as gas prices rise. The price impact varied across different sectors, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. This indicates an uneven distribution of price hikes in electricity across various consumer segments.

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), a Japanese government-related investment body, is focusing on impact-driven infrastructure funds. They are seeking managers who share their commitment and capability to maximize the impactful nature of these investments. This initiative highlights their strategy to support infrastructure projects that deliver tangible societal benefits.

In the current era of widespread disinformation, the residential construction industry experiences a notable gap between perception and reality concerning the costs associated with housing. A survey by Liaison Strategies highlights misconceptions about how fees and taxes contribute to home prices. This disparity exemplifies the challenge of discerning true costs amid prevalent misinformation. The article seeks to demystify these costs to provide clearer understanding for stakeholders.

Bechtel has received approval to proceed with a $6.7 billion liquefied natural gas (LNG) project at the Rio Grande LNG Facility. The project had previously been delayed after an appeals court overturned the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's authorization last year. With this green light, Bechtel can move forward with construction and development. This project is expected to have significant implications for the energy sector.

The article discusses a recent quarter-point interest rate reduction which has been welcomed by construction firms. While this cut provides a boost in confidence that may particularly benefit private projects, it is not expected to significantly increase overall construction activity.

California is set to move forward with SB 79, a bill that would allow for the construction of denser, multifamily housing near major train stations and rapid bus lines. The legislation aims to alleviate housing shortages by streamlining permissions for building in transit-rich areas. This aligns with California's broader strategy to improve public transport access while addressing housing needs. Governor Gavin Newsom is expected to review and potentially approve this legislation soon.

In August, Canada's housing starts fell by 16% from the previous month, indicating a slowdown in construction activity, according to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). Despite rises in some regions, overall trends show a decrease, particularly in key markets like Toronto and Vancouver. Factors contributing to this slowdown include rising construction costs and decreased builder confidence, notably in Ontario and British Columbia. Regions like Montreal and Calgary are seeing growth or are expected to experience high activity in 2025.

Construction has commenced on a $152 million project to upgrade the bulkheads at Port Everglades. The existing seawalls, which date back to the 1950s, will be reinforced to better handle rising sea levels and reverse storm surges. This is part of an effort to improve the port's resilience during Florida’s hurricane season.

The Canadian government has launched Build Canada Homes, a federal agency focused on rapidly increasing the supply of affordable housing across the nation. The initiative aims to address homelessness by building transitional and supportive housing, leveraging public lands, and using modern construction methods like factory-built homes and mass timber. With an initial $13 billion investment, the agency will collaborate with provinces, territories, and Indigenous communities to build at scale, utilizing Canadian materials to support domestic industries. Key projects are set to launch in multiple cities, prioritizing innovative, sustainable construction and the preservation of existing affordable rental housing.

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has ended its attempt to update the policy framework for evaluating gas pipelines and LNG project proposals. This decision comes after a directive from the Department of Energy (DOE), which suggests that the DOE may assume a greater role in influencing FERC's policymaking. Legal experts from Akin Gump indicate this shift could impact the future regulatory landscape for energy infrastructure projects.

The article discusses the appropriate procedures for using the tender and RFP process in construction. It emphasizes the importance of clearly understanding the contracting authority's needs before selecting a tender. If needs are not clear, alternatives that allow for a more complete comparison of goods and services should be considered. The content originates from constructconnect.com, a source focused on the construction industry.

New York City has introduced new 'landmark legislation' for construction workers and supervisors. This legislation mandates additional Site Safety Training (SST) to include modules on mental health and wellness, specifically targeting suicide risk and prevention, as well as education on alcohol and substance misuse. This move aims to enhance the overall safety and well-being of construction site personnel.