Space-ready growth: Coastal Machine & Supply plans to invest $25.5 million to expand its Carencro facility by 120,000 square feet and add production lines for aerospace and defense components. The expansion is expected to create 129 permanent jobs and will receive state and local tax incentives. The company aims to capitalize on growing demand from SpaceX and plans to begin construction this year, with the first phase completed before August 2027. Louisiana Illuminator has the full story.
Heat strains power grids: U.S. weather-driven energy demand hit a record in August as persistent heat drove cooling needs to their highest level in 76 years. This month is also on track to be the hottest September on record, keeping air-conditioning use and gas-fired power generation elevated across much of the central U.S. The prolonged heat is increasing pressure on power grids and raising questions about whether September should still be considered a transition month between summer and fall. Bloomberg has the full story.
US automakers seek ban: Major U.S. automakers are urging Congress to permanently ban the domestic sale, import and production of Chinese connected vehicles, hardware and software over economic and national security concerns. The Alliance for Automotive Innovation wants lawmakers to act before the current congressional session ends, citing the growing global presence of Chinese automakers such as BYD and Geely. The push comes amid bipartisan efforts to restrict Chinese automotive technology and address concerns over subsidized competition and foreign influence in the U.S. auto market. CNBC has the full story.
SpaceX incentives
