HOUSTON -- Texas' solar power industry may be getting closer to its moment in the sun. Across the state, solar companies and backers are increasingly optimistic that the state Legislature will adopt an incentive structure next year. With anxiety over the reliability of the power grid growing, leaders this week said the state must act. Go to story #1

Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker heads on a drought tour today as his state continues to grapple with fish kills, dying crops and water emergencies amid raging heat. On Wednesday, the Republican governor declared a state of emergency in all of Wisconsin's 72 counties because of abnormally dry conditions. Currently, 18.7 percent of the state is experiencing "severe" drought, particularly in its southern half near Milwaukee, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. Go to story #2