News 2005:

Find out what's going on in our area and around the World from an "energy" perspective!

April - Please scroll to bottom for previous months or years.

Footnote:  We always attempt to get the news to you AND obey copyright laws.  We apologize if, in our haste to get the news out, we miss a notice that it was copyright protected. We are a non-profit foundation therefore  we do not reprint for profit.  Our sole motivation is to keep our public informed.  If you have an article reprinted here and desire us to eliminate it, just let us know and we will immediately delete it, without question, with apologies.  arizonaenergy on copyright law

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The Big Meltdown: Something’s Happening at both Poles (posted 04/30/05)

The coastline hadn’t changed for more than 9,000 years and then it changed completely in just a few weeks.”

Bipartisan Commission Issues Strategy to Address Long-Term U.S. Energy Challenges (posted 04/30/05)

Detailed Recommendations on Oil Security, Climate Change, Natural Gas, Nuclear Energy, and Other Key Topics the Result of 2 Years of Research and Consultation

BUSH ENERGY SPEECH: OLD IDEAS SKIRT GENUINE SECURITY, PRICE SOLUTIONS (posted 04/30/05)

Measures announced today by the White House to address the nation's energy situation would do almost nothing to attack the core issues of high oil prices or tight global supplies, even if they were added to the controversial energy bill passed last week by the House of Representatives.

CLEAN WATER VICTORY IN TRANSPORATION BILL (posted 04/30/05)

"The transportation bill is monumentally bad for the environment, but at least the Senate voted in favor of badly needed funding that will help improve water quality and clean up rivers, lakes and streams across the country,

Emissions Cuts Much Cheaper Than Previously Thought (posted 04/30/05)

It found that reducing US greenhouse gas emissions by 4 per cent by 2015 and by 7 per cent by 2025, in accordance with the NCEP's recommendations, would cost 0.15 per cent of gross domestic product.

Is this the legacy we want to leave our children (posted 04/30/05)

The Day After Tomorrow depicted wild temperature shifts and spectacular weather effects, but what is happening in the real world is a gradual yet undeniable change.

Life After the Oil Crash (posted 04/30/05)

Civilization as we know it is coming to an end soon. This is not the wacky proclamation of a doomsday cult, apocalypse bible prophecy sect, or conspiracy theory society. Rather, it is the scientific conclusion of the best paid, most widely-respected geologists, physicists, and investment bankers in the world.

Ocean Data Support Global Warming Projections (posted 04/30/05)

The Earth is absorbing more energy from the Sun than it is emitting back into space, according to the new study, and the magnitude of imbalance cannot be explained by natural variability.

SCIENTISTS FIND "SMOKING GUN" EVIDENCE OF GLOBAL WARMING (posted 04/30/05)

Findings Confirm Suspicions: Earth is Absorbing More Heat than it Can Handle, Human Pollution is to Blame

US Energy Information Administration Releases Analysis of National Commission on Energy Policy Recommendations (posted 04/30/05)

The Energy Information Administration (EIA) study analyzed a number of the NCEP's major recommendations, including the Commission's cap and trade proposal to address climate change and its fuel economy recommendations.

UV Use on the Rise (posted 04/30/05)

UV disinfection used at American Falls WWTP for disinfecting municipal drinking water and wastewater.

Arizona Refinery Hopeful Asks US to Ease Permits (posted 04/29/05)

Lobbyists for what could be the first oil refinery built in the United States since the 1970s are seeking help from federal lawmakers to hasten the permitting process

BP explosion may have been five separate blasts: investigators (posted 04/29/05)

Investigators said the explosions were not indicative of a single release of vapors. And while the probe has yet to determine what the ignition source was.

Bush touts importance of LNG imports, energy independence (posted 04/29/05)

President Bush announced a series of measures Wednesday that he said would "reduce our dependence on foreign sources of energy," except for LNG, apparently.

Can biofuels mitigate the emissions from oil used for transport? (posted 04/29/05)

The Paris-based International Energy Agency (IEA) projects that the worldwide use of oil in transport could almost double between 2000 and 2030, greatly increasing greenhouse gas emissions. Biofuels could help reduce this

China Targets Car Exhaust in Bid to Clean Up its Air (posted 04/29/05)

China plans to clean up its air by raising vehicle emission standards over the next two years

Consumers Must Plan Now for Potential Oil Shock - IEA (posted 04/29/05)

Car-pools and driving restrictions could help shave at least a million barrels a day (bpd) from industrialised nations' oil demand in the event of a supply crisis,

Energy Technology and Distributed Energy Outlook Optimistic (posted 04/29/05)

Approximately 75 percent of the 350 industry stakeholders, representing a broad cross- section of the industry, believe that the distributed energy and energy technology sectors are well-positioned for revenue growth in 2005.

Extreme Makeover Home Edition Features Solar Power (posted 04/29/05)

showcasing the makeover of the Terry and Percy Piestewa home in Tuba City, Ariz., will feature solar and wind power electric systems provided through PerfectPower, Inc., an Arizona solar and renewable energy integrator and turnkey systems provider.

Final deactivation of FFTF to begin (posted 04/29/05)

Fast Flux Test Facility (FFTF) supporters denounced DOE's plans to start draining tomorrow the last of the sodium coolant from the FFTF. The final deactivation of the reactor will prevent it from future operations.

House passes energy bill including 5-bil gal corn-based ethanol mandate by 2012 (posted 04/29/05)

The US House approved an $8-bil energy bill Apr 21 that opens Alaska’s Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to oil and gas drilling and requires the use of 5-bil gal of renewable fuels in gasoline by 2010.

Killer Diseases in Developing World (posted 04/29/05)

Diseases like bird flu in Asia and Marburg fever in Africa have aroused fears of sinister new health threats, but the biggest fight is still against more familiar scourges like diarrhoea, AIDS and malaria.

Magnetek Expands into Alternative Energy Markets (posted 04/29/05)

announced that it is reorganizing the operating structure to accelerate growth in alternative energy markets.

Oklahoma House Passes Coal Use Bill (posted 04/29/05)

Any public utility serving customers in this state shall be encouraged by the Corporation Commission to utilize all coal-fired generation currently available for use in their system

Pinnacle West getting bids for power station stake (posted 04/29/05)

Silverhawk sells power on the wholesale market as a so-called merchant plant.

Polar Bear, Walrus Under Threat in Greenland - WWF (posted 04/29/05)

Polar bears and walrus could be wiped out in Greenland because of excess hunts and a thawing of Arctic habitats spurred by global warming

Sempra unit selects Idaho site for proposed 600-MW coal plant (posted 04/29/05)

Sempra Generation has selected a site in Jerome County, Idaho, for the development of a proposed $1-bil, 600-MW coal-fired power plant, the Sempra Energy subsidiary said.

Solar has highest potential for renewables in Arizona (posted 04/29/05)

Increased reliance on renewable energies could create thousands of high-paying jobs, conserve water and improve public health over the next 15 years in the state of Arizona.

State agency approves RPS implementation plan (posted 04/29/05)

Electric utilities in the state of New York must develop a consumer education program that will explain the benefits of a renewable portfolio standard.

Top green power purchasers purchase 1.6 million MWh (posted 04/29/05)

The U.S. Air Force is top, with annual purchases or 321,000 MWh for air force bases across the country. Last year, the Air Force purchased 40% of the green power purchased by the federal government, and has committed to expand its use of renewables to reduce reliance on foreign energy sources.

U.S. utility to solicit more green power (posted 04/29/05)

Southern California Edison will conduct its third competitive solicitation in the last three years for additional renewable power contracts.

UK political parties support renewables in election (posted 04/29/05)

Most political parties in the UK are supporting renewable energies in the general election called for May 5.

US House bill would cut power plant emissions of four pollutants (posted 04/29/05)

Four US House members have introduced a bill to reduce coal-fired generation emissions of sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, mercury and carbon dioxide. The bill (HR 1873) was referred to the House Energy and Commerce Committee where supporters are hopeful it will be considered later this year when the panel debates the president's "Clear Skies" bill to control power plant pollution.

US will urge oil producers to maximize their production (posted 04/29/05)

US President George W. Bush Thursday evening said his administration was "doing everything it can" to lower domestic gasoline prices, including urging oil producing countries to pump more crude oil.

Ameren is asked to press fight on global warming (posted 04/28/05)

The Justice Department sued several utilities in 1999 after the Environmental Protection Agency determined that they had made modifications to their power plants that resulted in increased pollution.

TOP 10 CARBON-DIOXIDE-EMITTING UTILITIES, 2003

American Electric Power to Settle Environmental Violation Lawsuit (posted 04/28/05)

The Justice Department sued several utilities in 1999 after the Environmental Protection Agency determined that they had made modifications to their power plants that resulted in increased pollution.

Coalition Applauds President Bush's Commitment to Comprehensive Energy Legislation (posted 04/28/05)

The Coalition for Affordable and Reliable Energy (CARE) today praised President Bush's call for a comprehensive energy strategy to help America meet the energy needs of a growing economy in environmentally responsible ways.

Federal investment in nuclear power urged (posted 04/28/05)

Wallace urged the Senate Energy committee to adopt the Bush administration's proposal to appropriate $56 million toward the Nuclear Power 2010 initiative that's aimed at deployment of a new generation of nuclear reactors.

Global Marshall Plan (posted 04/28/05)

The rapid pace at which globalization is spreading worldwide has created an untenable environmental situation, as well as impoverishment and inequities in distribution.

High gas, power prices due to speculation, not fundamentals: P&G (posted 04/28/05)

Prices are being driven by opportunity costs between commodities, and gas and electricity markets are becoming an alternative investment opportunity. Kuchay said high prices meant it was a suppliers market and that "suppliers are the market."

Japan keeps cool over reports Russian oil line may not reach it (posted 04/28/05)

The pipeline plan has long been the subject of a fierce tussle between Japan and China, both trying to grab the potential 50-mil mt/year (1-mil b/d) of crude supplies for their energy-hungry markets.

LADWP Moves Ahead with Pine Tree Wind Project (posted 04/28/05)

The Pine Tree Wind project will be the largest municipally owned wind energy system built in the Western United States since passage of the state's Renewable Energy Portfolio Standard (RPS).

Need to simplify permitting for new refinery construction: Bush (posted 04/28/05)

"I will direct federal agencies to work with states to encourage the building of new refineries on closed military bases, for example, and to simplify the permitting process for such construction,"

Nuclear Energy Industry Welcomes President Bush's Proposal for New Power Plant Incentive (posted 04/28/05)

The proposal is designed to increase confidence among the business and financial communities that potential regulatory delays that are beyond industry's control in licensing new nuclear power plants will not be an impediment to new plant construction.

Ontario needs to replace coal plants with gas, nuclear: study (posted 04/28/05)

The most cost-effective way for Ontario to secure its future capacity needs would be to shut down its coal-fired plants and replace them with new gas-fired plants and refurbished nuclear plants

OPEC not responsible for current high oil prices:Algeria's Khelil (posted 04/28/05)

Besides strong economic demand, Khelil cited geopolitical concerns and market speculation as reasons for high oil prices. "OPEC is not the reason for higher prices

Pacific Gas and Electric Company Adds More Renewable Wind Energy to Electric Mix (posted 04/28/05)

Pacific Gas and Electric Company announced it has signed up an additional 158 megawatts (MW) of clean, renewable wind energy resources to help meet its customers' future electricity needs.

SDG&E Seeks Changes In Governor's Solar Bill (posted 04/28/05)

San Diego Gas and Electric said it isn't convinced the incentives from Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's solar bill are enough to make the solar industry self-sufficient.

Study Shows Environmental Pollutants Affect Sperm (posted 04/28/05)

Environmental pollutants from domestic and industrial waste and pesticides could be changing the ratio of sex chromosomes in sperm, researchers said on Thursday.

Sustainable Energy Delivers Fuel Cell Inverter Platform (posted 04/28/05)

Sustainable Energy Technologies Ltd. has delivered the first of its next-generation inverter platforms for stationary fuel cell applications. The new inverter platform has a peak "stack-to-grid" electrical conversion efficiency of over 94%.

U.S. Energy Corp. Acquires Various Uranium Properties in Utah (posted 04/28/05)

U.S. Energy Corp. announced today that it has acquired more than 12,000 acres of unpatented lode mining claims for uranium in Utah.

Bush to Propose Oil Refineries at Ex-Military Bases (posted 04/27/05)

Under pressure over high energy prices, President Bush Wednesday will propose tackling the root causes of the problem by encouraging new oil refineries be built at closed military bases and jumpstarting construction of new nuclear power plants.

For Sale, by Forest Service: Homes, Ranger Stations, Rec Areas (posted 04/27/05)

Squeezed by record deficits, the decline of the timber industry and the revenue that produced, as well as demands of the new "healthy forests" law, the agency is looking to close some recreation sites and sell offices and ranger stations

Forest Service Whistleblower Alleges Improper Pesticide Use in Southwest (posted 04/27/05)

Environmental laws and the agency's own rules on spraying were ignored, the complaint says. For example, it says that over the past three years thousands of pounds of insecticides were used near campgrounds in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest without justification or determining the risk to campers and other visitors.

Greenpeace Plans Arctic Trek to Highlight Warming (posted 04/27/05)

Two Minnesota men said Tuesday they will attempt the first summertime crossing of the Arctic Ocean, a trek sponsored by the environmental group Greenpeace to show how global warming is melting the northern ice cap.

Safety of Nuclear Power Plants Remains Emotional Issue in Energy Debate (posted 04/27/05)

Nuclear power provides a fifth of America's electricity. It provides close to all of the power in France and Japan. China, now one of the most rapidly developing nations, has announced plans to build nuclear plants in its country at a pace of nearly one every two years for the next two decades.

Toyota Gets Triple the Orders it Expected for Hybrid SUVs (posted 04/27/05)

Toyota Motor Corp. said Monday orders for its two new models of gasoline-electric hybrid sport utility vehicles were three times its initial monthly projection of 1,000 units.

Views on Ecology Law Mixed (posted 04/27/05)

The 35-year-old National Environmental Policy Act is either an important protection the public has from out-of-control government or an excuse for out-of-touch bureaucrats to delay and disrupt worthwhile developments.

Trends in Greenhouse Gas Emissions (posted 04/27/05)

In 2003, approximately 86 percent of the energy consumed in the United States was produced through the combustion of fossil fuels.

Electricity generators consumed 35 percent of U.S. energy from fossil fuels and emitted 41 percent of the CO2 from fossil fuel combustion in 2003.

Water supply critical for Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe (posted 04/27/05)

Water on the Cheyenne River Reservation and surrounding communities is at a critically low level, bringing tribal officials and county and community leaders together to find a solution.

Navajos ban uranium mining, oppose federal subsidies (posted 04/27/05)

The Navajo Nation Council passed a new law banning the mining and processing of uranium on the Navajo Nation, which if signed by President Joe Shirley Jr. will bring an end to the legacy of uranium mining death for Navajos.

Lessons from the Long Walk (posted 04/27/05)

A long-awaited memorial is being prepared for dedication June 4 in Fort Sumner, N.M. The Bosque Redondo Memorial will reflect on the legacy of those Indians who endured the Long Walk and a four-year incarceration where nearly 3,000 Navajo and Apache succumbed to pneumonia, dysentery, exposure and starvation. Bottom photo -- With terror in their eyes and propaganda on the walls, Navajo and Apache children sit in a classroom in the U.S. prison camp of Bosque Redondo, N.M.

Suffering and strength at Bosque Redondo (posted 04/27/05)

Viewing a photo of Navajo children at Bosque Redondo for the first time, Louise Benally wondered which ones were her great-grandparents who endured the Long Walk to Fort Sumner, N.M. and suffered in the prison camp for four years.

Navajo president reflects on Bosque Redondo memorial (posted 04/27/05)

Reflecting on the Long Walk and imprisonment at Bosque Redondo at Fort Sumner, N.M., Navajo President Joe Shirley Jr. said the suffering of those days made Navajos what they are today.

Biofuels, Bioplastics Key to Market Shift (posted 04/27/05)

"It's time to come clean and admit that America has a problem: oil addiction."

The SEED initiative is organized by The Future 500, and is seeking to drive down petroleum dependence and its security consequences by shifting to a new generation of bio-based alternatives.

Biomass Could Displace 30% of Petroleum Use (posted 04/27/05)

Relief from soaring prices at the gas pump could come in the form of corncobs, cornstalks, switchgrass and other types of biomass, according to a joint feasibility study from the departments of Agriculture and Energy.

Blackouts possible as weatherman says summer may be hot (posted 04/27/05)

Customers of San Diego Gas & Electric could face the possibility of rolling blackouts this summer unless efforts to convince them to conserve electricity are successful,

British Energy's 2020 vision (posted 04/27/05)

TO be nuclear or to pollute the atmosphere, that is the question for Britain's energy industry. There simply isn't the capacity in renewables to keep the nation's nightlights twinkling.

Cleaner Fuel Vehicles Saving You Money in America (posted 04/27/05)

Imagine driving the car of your dreams. Now realize the engine in this vehicle cleaning the air as you drive. Visualize the fuel for your automobile costing less than what you pay today for gasoline.

Electricity From Trash Possible, Problematic (posted 04/27/05)

Even if Cochise County approves of the facility, Global Energy Resources still would need to pass muster with the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality and the federal Environmental Protection Agency.

Energy should be key policy – Wilson (posted 04/27/05)

Former Energy Minister Brian Wilson believes that the UK’s energy policy should play a key role in the upcoming General Election, and that the country should be aiming for a largely ‘indigenous’ power supply over coming decades.

Energy Bill Emerges (posted 04/27/05)

this one might pass the Senate too given that the high price of oil and natural gas has changed the dynamics of the discussion.

Free Market in Energy - Check the Math (posted 04/27/05)

Skeptics on renewable energy often use the excuse that renewables cost more - so why support them? It's important to remember that the traditional energy industries are subsidized by billions of dollars each year in today's tax code.

Group demands safe end for scrap ships (posted 04/27/05)

Greenpeace has challenged European Union ministers to ensure that decommissioned tankers will be safely processed by skilled professionals, and not dumped on poverty-stricken Asian communities.

Million Solar Roofs Initiative Off and Running (posted 04/27/05)

"California has the opportunity to bring solar energy into the mainstream and we should not miss it."

Navy's New Wind Turbines to Save Taxpayers $1.2 Million in Annual Energy Costs (posted 04/27/05)

The wind energy project will save taxpayers $1.2 million in annual energy costs, and it will reduce the consumption of 650,000 gallons of diesel fuel, reduce air pollution by 26 tons of sulfur dioxide and 15 tons of nitrous oxide and greenhouse gas emissions by 13 million pounds per year.

Nuclear call criticised (posted 04/27/05)

“Instead of backing a brighter, safer future for its members and the rest of us, Amicus appears to want to keep its members working in hazardous and polluting power plants.

Oregon begins work on market system for cutting greenhouse gases (posted 04/27/05)

Oregon is crafting a market system for reducing greenhouse gas emissions from its power plants, state officials and environmentalists said Tuesday. The state's decision stems from a broader November 2004 agreement with California and Washington, known as the West Coast Governors Global Warming Initiative, to develop coordinated policies to curb GHG emissions from all major sources.

Russia must close 12 nukes to boost power exports to EU: EC (posted 04/27/05)

Russia will have to close 12 nuclear reactors before the European Union will allow it to sell power to more EU members, the European Commission's director general for energy

Senate committee approves governor's ambitious solar roof plan (posted 04/27/05)

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's plan to power a million homes and businesses with the sun moved forward Tuesday, despite concerns that ratepayers would be stuck subsidizing the ambitious expansion of solar energy.

SPACE WEATHER ADVISORY OUTLOOK #05- 17 (posted 04/27/05)

Category R1 - minor radio blackouts are possible from new active Region 756. Category G1 (minor) and Category G2 (major) - geomagnetic storming conditions are possible

US bank’s ethical move praised (posted 04/27/05)

US financial giant JPMorgan Chase has been praised by green campaigners for adopting a new ethical and environmental policy, it has been announced.

US failing to respond to looming natural gas shortage: speakers (posted 04/27/05)

The lack of industry and political response to the looming natural gas shortage has left some wondering what it will take to spur action. "Like an alcoholic, we may have to go all the way down to being a real drunk before we recover

Bush Defends Environmental Policies on Earth Day (posted 04/26/05)

"This administration, in catering to industries that put America's health and natural heritage at risk, threatens to do more damage to our environmental protections than any other in US history," the National Resources Defense Council said on its Web site.

China Says Not To Blame For Global Energy Crunch (posted 04/26/05)

China's fast-growing economy is largely self reliant in energy and is not to blame for a crunch in world energy supplies, the country's top state planner said on Saturday.

CHINA'S ELECTRICITY SHORTAGES EXPECTED TO BE ALLEVIATED BY 2007 (posted 04/26/05)

Sun said that electricity is a necessity for the development of the modern society and its sustainable development bases on the coordinated growth of electricity, economy, energy and environment.

Coral Reef Damage Could Have Global Impact - Experts (posted 04/26/05)

The demise of the world's coral reefs could threaten coastal communities as global fish stocks fall,

Deaths Rise Above 900 on Quake-Hit Indonesia Isles (posted 04/26/05)

The death toll from a massive earthquake that struck islands off the coast of Sumatra nearly four weeks ago has risen to 905 and is expected to climb higher

EC seeks to set up pan-European energy community: Lamoureux (posted 04/26/05)

Russia's successful energy dialogue over the last five years was being considered as a model for talks with other countries.

UK: Expanding Nuclear Instead of Green Energy 'Could Save Billions' (posted 04/26/05)

Building a new generation of nuclear power stations would be a much cheaper way of meeting the UK's ambitious targets for cutting greenhouse gas emissions than persisting with an expansion of renewable energy, according to research published today.

Experts to Study Power Grid Terror Threat (posted 04/26/05)

The National Research Council of the National Academies has appointed a committee to study enhancing the resilience of electricity transmission and distribution systems within the United States against potential terrorist attack.

Heavy Rains, Flooding in Western Romania (posted 04/26/05)

Torrential rains battered western Romania, flooding thousands of homes and disrupting rail and road traffic in what local officials said were the worst floods in 50 years.

KEY MANAGEMENT ELEMENTS FOR ENERGY UTILITIES TO SUCCEED IN THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT (posted 04/26/05)

The electricity wholesale market is a complex and risky environment. Even though utilities have typically kept to a non-speculative strategy, they still face risks, and thereby control problems, rivaling those of large financial institutions.

Mexico mulls alternatives to natural gas for power generation (posted 04/26/05)

Faced by lagging natural gas production and a fast-rising bill for imports, Mexico is seeking alternative fuels for power generation

NASA facility proposes to become hydrogen demonstration site (posted 04/26/05)

Talk to Stephen Brettel for a few minutes about hydrogen and how it could become the fuel of the future and you'll get the sense he feels he's on the ground floor of something big.

Nearly 30,000 in Drought-Hit Djibouti Need Food - UN (posted 04/26/05)

Nearly 30,000 people in Djibouti who have lost livestock due to worsening drought need emergency food and clean drinking water

'Peak Oil' Gathering Sees $100 Crude This Decade (posted 04/26/05)

Fresh oil shocks may send prices over $100 a barrel and trigger worldwide recession by the end of the decade, a conference on the theory that oil supplies have almost peaked heard on Monday.

Quote of the day (posted 04/26/05)
""When you increase the capacity by a significant amount, which they are talking about, that can't help but have a positive downward effect on prices."
(Claude Mandil, executive director of the International Energy Agency said Thursday referring to the prospect of linking oil prices into long term gas contracts).
See more industry/OPEC viewpoints at http://www.platts.com/Oil/Resources/Quote of the Day/

SolarWorld on Track to Meet '05 Growth Targets - CFO (posted 04/26/05)

Solar energy company SolarWorld is on track to meet its target to raise profits and sales 40 percent this year

Tall Order for Chinese Climbers to Clean Up Everest (posted 04/26/05)

A Chinese team set out for Mount Everest at the weekend on a mission to pick up a mountain of trash left behind by climbers and tourists

US, Saudis after meeting spar over cause of high oil prices (posted 04/26/05)

Hadley said the additional capacity would help "stabilize the market at a price level which both Saudi Arabia and the US agree needs to be one that provides adequate return on investment and also is something that isn't so high that it damages markets and damages the world economy."

Utilities say they are ready for heat (posted 04/26/05)

As temperatures rise and air-conditioners click on, area utilities are convinced they can avoid a power crunch similar to the one that gripped the Valley last summer.

Where the Parties Stand on Environmental Issues (posted 04/26/05)

The Green Party tried to inject environmental issues into the May 5 election on Monday, accusing Tony Blair of a "massive betrayal" of the British people.

Wind-to-hydrogen energy project commissioned at university (posted 04/26/05)

A 230-foot-tall wind turbine already fills half of the energy needs at the University of Minnesota-Morris, but researchers hope it can do much more.

World crude market is currently 'oversupplied': Iran's Zanganeh (posted 04/26/05)

Zanganeh's comments come as a growing number of OPEC ministers say it is not necessary to supply the market with additional crude in the short-term

$3.25 Million Earmarked for Long Beach Recycled Water System Expansion (posted 04/25/05)

part of a diverse water supply reliability portfolio aimed at keeping water supply reliability high and water rates low.

8 Million Pennies Raised for World Water (posted 04/25/05)

Bringing to life the concept behind the heart-warming film Millions, a total of $80,000 has been raised to date for clean water for the people of developing countries.

Ask Dr Dave - Ethanol (posted 04/25/05)

Ethanol is another name for pure alcohol.  Anyone who has made beer or wine has taken the first step toward making ethanol.

Ask Dr Dave - Mercury (posted 04/25/05)

In the United States there are four major sources of mercury:  hazardous waste incineration, medical waste incineration, municipal waste incineration, and coal fired boilers and power plants.

Australia targets gas cuts from coal (posted 04/25/05)

The technologies that will slash carbon dioxide emissions from coal-fired power stations are 10 years from being commercially viable

Bush to press Saudis on oil production capacity in Texas talks (posted 04/25/05)

Energy resources are stretched to the limit," wrote Yassin. "In
the present state of affairs, and if current growth in China and India
persists, additional oil production will not be sufficient to meet global
demands.

 Cell-out: Energy innovation ignored (posted 04/25/05)

Australia's coal-fired electricity was dirty but cheap, making it difficult for cleaner, more efficient energy to compete. In Europe, especially in Britain and Germany, governments were strongly promoting micro CHP systems.

China Water Supply to Reach Limit in 2030 as Population Grows (posted 04/25/05)

China's water supply is likely to be stretched to the limit by 2030 as the population expands above 1.6 billion and rivers and lakes run dry or become polluted

Chinese Prefer Green: Environmentally friendly vehicles to star at Shanghai show (posted 04/25/05)

General Motors will show its Sequel fuel cell car, which made its debut earlier this year at the Detroit auto show.

Crude prices extend gain on supply fears, OPEC (posted 04/25/05)

Global crude prices extended gains Monday on gasoline supply concerns and on fears that OPEC may not increase production in the near future.

EPA Mercury Plan to Achieve Cuts (posted 04/25/05)

Cutting mercury from power plants by nearly half within 15 years can be done almost entirely through the Bush administration's market trading plan and without direct pollution controls, congressional researchers say.

Gorbachev Calls for Global Treaty Making Access to Water and Basic Sanitation a Human Right (posted 04/25/05)

Mikhail Gorbachev urges world leaders to adopt a treaty that would guarantee people clean water and sanitation

Head of DOE's energy program announces resignation (posted 04/25/05)

no indication in a DOE memorandum why he was leaving; however, industry officials said his departure had long been rumored.

Hydrogen: The future's fuel? (posted 04/25/05)

As Florida officials tout hydrogen as the state's clean fuel of tomorrow, and lawmakers consider legislation that would increase incentives for hydrogen-based companies, researchers at the University of Florida are exploring ways to turn political promises into technical reality.

Hydrogen village will use wind power to create hydrogen fuel (posted 04/25/05)

Prince Edward Island will become the testing ground for a new clean energy system that uses wind power to produce hydrogen fuel.

Hydrogen power on the way (posted 04/25/05)

Fuel-cell vehicles are claimed to be the cars for a greener world because water vapour is their only emission, although Hyundai and Kia believe their widespread availability is likely to be at least 20 years away.

LOHAS 9 Taking Place Next Week (posted 04/25/05)

The LOHAS Journal chronicles the market for sustainable economy, healthy living, alternative healthcare, personal development, and ecological lifestyles. About 30% of people identify themselves as being LOHAS consumers.

London Mayor Blocks Desalination Proposal (posted 04/25/05)

"With increasing concerns over the damage we do to our environment and climate change, it's important that we reduce rather than increase the levels of energy we use in London

only two states, Oregon and Massachussetts, have carbon dioxide emissions standards for new power plants (posted 04/25/05)

As of December 2002, only two states, Oregon and Massachussetts, have carbon dioxide emissions standards for new power plants. The Oregon rule appears stronger

Preemption watch LNG (posted 04/25/05)

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission would preempt state and local regulation of liquid natural gas facilities if a provision in the House energy bill passes.

Progress considers new nuke plant to meet state's energy demand (posted 04/25/05)

Officials will decide within two years what type of energy will best meet anticipated electricity demand. But the cheapest, cleanest and wisest fuel source would be nuclear.

Renewables must compete, German suppliers to tell EU's Piebalgs (posted 04/25/05)

"Fairer competition in Europe is a pre-requisite for a functioning internal European energy market and that applies to the support of renewable energy sources as well

Research and Development for Fuel Cell Technologies for Automotive and Stationary Applications (posted 04/25/05)

The Office of Hydrogen, Fuel Cells and Infrastructure Technologies of the DOE Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy is soliciting financial assistance applications for cost-shared financial assistance agreements with the DOE for research and development that will enhance fuel cell technology.

US DOE budget proposal includes a hydrogen twist (posted 04/25/05)

In his 2004 budget request to Congress, US President George Bush has asked representatives for $260m in funding for hydrogen research in a move that will further the president’s high-profile Hydrogen Fuel Initiative of 2003.

Warm trend hurts Cascade Natural Gas Corp. (posted 04/25/05)

The Seattle-based utility said the lower results were because of lower gas consumption that resulted from warmer weather and conservation prompted by higher gas prices

All New Scottsdale Public Buildings to be LEED Gold Certified (posted 04/22/05)

requires that all new occupied city buildings, of any size, be designed, contracted and built to achieve Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)

American Indian delegation to Washington urges clean energy (posted 04/22/05)

A coalition of American Indians recently lobbied Congress for clean energy and a halt to the long-held tradition of making Indian country a dumping ground for nuclear waste, disease-producing coal mines and power plants that destroy the environment.

Be an Action Hero for the Environment (posted 04/22/05)

The fight to protect the Earth is one we can't afford to lose. I invite you to celebrate Earth Day with me on Friday, April 22nd. All you need to do is one small act* for the environment right in your hometown.   Steven Seagal

Bill would let utilities condemn public land (posted 04/22/05)

"It is a horrible bill," said Rep. Frank Boyle, D-Superior. "The message that it sends is that one company can usurp the authority of local control from all 72 counties in the state forever.

Burning household waste 'would power millions of homes' (posted 04/22/05)

BURNING rubbish could generate a sixth of Britain's energy within 20 years, a report said yesterday.

Clean Energy Finalists to Square off at MIT (posted 04/22/05)

On April 27th, entrepreneurs will compete at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the final round of a business plan presentation contest designed to encourage innovative solutions and investment in Massachusetts' clean energy industry.

Energy Bill Passes House, Faces Fight in the Senate (posted 04/22/05)

While few and far between, the Energy Bill, passed by the U.S. House has a few noteworthy renewable energy items. Ultimately, it's the Senate that will decide what the final bill looks like -- and that's expected to be a tough battle.

House Approves Broad Energy Bill (posted 04/22/05)

The bill includes $12 billion in tax breaks and subsidies for energy companies

New Mexico Governor Richardson Signs Three Energy-Related Bills into Law (posted 04/22/05)

“Energy policy is an economic issue, a security issue--it’s an issue we have to face.”

New UN report outlines indicators for sustainable energy use (posted 04/22/05)

 The report addresses the concern that much of the world's current energy supply and use, which is based largely on limited fossil fuel resources, is associated with harmful environmental and health impacts, including air pollution and climate change.

Radioactive soil rejected from landfill ; Waste from the former Maine Yankee plant, sent for burial ... (posted 04/22/05)

Forty-eight rail cars carrying contaminated soil from the former Maine Yankee nuclear power plant to a landfill in Utah are on their way back to Wiscasset, following the discovery that previous shipments contained water and, in a few cases, were leaking, officials said.

Radioactive-waste storage (posted 04/22/05)

The NAS study found that highly radioactive waste stored at the nations nuclear power plants is vulnerable to terrorist attack.  Nuclear waste at our nations nuclear power plants is vulnerable to attack. We applaud the NAS for its scientific integrity and its perseverance in seeing to it that these important findings are made public.

Washington State Law Mandates Green Building (posted 04/22/05)

"One of my hopes is that by showing the way, we will encourage everybody from mall developers to homebuilders to use the same green building techniques that schools and other government buildings will be using."

X-rays shine light on high-intensity gas lamps (posted 04/22/05)

High-intensity gas discharge (HID) lamps produce 26 percent of the nation's light output, but, as a result of their high energy efficiency, consume only 17 percent of the electricity used for lighting.

APS Signs Power Supply Agreements with Arizona Electrical & Irrigation Districts (posted 04/21/05)

Arizona Public Service (APS) announced today that it has concluded new long-term agreements to supply about 75 megawatts of power to ten electrical and irrigation districts located throughout the state of Arizona.

Assessing the Life Cycle of Wind Turbine Production (posted 04/21/05)

"With life cycle assessments of our wind turbines, we have an excellent tool to compare the products and estimate how big an advantage our wind power systems are to the environment."

Australia proceeds on program to develop ‘solar cities’ (posted 04/21/05)

The government of Australia is asking the solar industry to express interest in the ‘Solar Cities’ program that is designed as a main climate change mitigation initiative.

Australia Sees Higher Risk of El Nino Weather Event (posted 04/21/05)

The risk of an El Nino weather condition occurring in the Pacific this year remains higher than normal, the Australian Bureau of Meteorology said on Wednesday.

Australian govt may cut funding to solar energy sector (posted 04/21/05)

Opposition environment spokesman Anthony Albanese said the federal government is considering cutting a support program for the solar energy industry. He said funding for the photovoltaic rebate program (PVRP) was due to run out in June.

British Nuclear Group to Set Up Central European Headquarters in Prague (posted 04/21/05)

British Nuclear Group (BNG) (UK), specializing in nuclear equiment dismantling and disposal, plans to set up its central European headquarters in Prague

Chile Eyes Nuclear Power As Valid Option (posted 04/21/05)

He said the situation "makes us consider the option of the nuclear fission as a possible source of electric power," although "this alternative is not yet put on the agenda."

Computer Model Predicts US Hurricane Activity (posted 04/21/05)

Scientists have built a computer model that could help limit damage by predicting the strength of hurricane activity in the United States.

Energy Bill Won't Ease Fuel Prices Quickly - Bush (posted 04/21/05)

House Democrats on Wednesday criticized an $8 billion energy bill they said favored big oil companies and President Bush acknowledged the legislation would do nothing to immediately ease record gasoline prices.

Ethanol produces more energy than it takes to produce, says U.S. analysis (posted 04/21/05)

Ethanol generates 35% more energy than it takes to produce, due to the use of solar energy to grow the corn, according to a study by Argonne National Laboratory.

Free software program to prompt 24 GW of renewable energy (posted 04/21/05)

A free software program has resulted in the deployment of 1 GW of renewable energy capacity around the world in its first six years of availability, and will promote the installation of 24 GW by 2012

House begins debate on energy bill (posted 04/21/05)

 Lawmakers are slated to debate 30 amendments to the bill with final passage expected on Thursday

Hydraulic fracturing, stormwater bills debut in US Senate (posted 04/21/05)

One measure would clarify that the extraction method of hydraulic fracturing is exempt from the act, while the other would exempt oil and gas facilities that disturb one to five acres of land from compliance with the stormwater-permitting program authorized under the law.

Inuit Leader Critical of US Wins $100,000 Prize (posted 04/21/05)

An Inuit leader who accuses Washington of doing too little to prevent a rise in global temperatures that is thawing the Arctic icecap won a $100,000 environmental prize in Oslo on Wednesday.

Making Every Drop Count (posted 04/21/05)

For years, the Yellow Quill First Nation, a small indigenous community of 1,000 people located in the south-central region of Canada's Saskatchewan province, was forced to boil all its drinking water because the local water sources were limited and despicable.

Muted response to Palo, Iowa, nuclear plant's sale plan shows changing times (posted 04/21/05)

"Everybody's become very blase in accepting nuclear power," Snyder said. "It scares me."

New vs. Old Thinking (posted 04/21/05)

Despite the success of the EPA grants program the quality of the nation’s water resources continues to decline.

New Coalition Launches Campaign to Stop Sempra Coal-Fired Plant in Nevada (posted 04/21/05)

"Why would we want to use up our water, pollute our air and land, or trash our recreation and hunting areas to send power to another state so a private California company can make a profit?"

Public over-estimates the contribution from renewables, say engineers (posted 04/21/05)

The public is unaware of the “urgent need” to address sources of future energy supply

Queensland University Students Develop UltraCommuter Car (posted 04/21/05)

Students at the University of Queensland, Australia unveiled a new solar-electric concept car, the UltraCommuter, which will use 83% less fuel and emit 87% less greenhouse gases than a Holden Commodore.

Quote of the day (posted 04/21/05)
"I wish I could simply wave a magic wand and lower (gasoline) prices tomorrow. I'd do that. Unfortunately, higher (gasoline) prices are a problem that's been years in the making."

(US President George W. Bush on Wednesday once again asked Congress to approve comprehensive energy legislation, to help ease the country's growing reliance on foreign oil). See more industry/OPEC viewpoints at http://www.platts.com/Oil/Resources/Quote of the Day/

Red Rain Falls in Russia (posted 04/21/05)

Red rain fell in the Voronezh region of southern Russia, coloured by pollutants from a local paint factory

Rules Committee Silences Members, Public on Hydropower (posted 04/21/05)

Conservationists, anglers, and tribes blasted the House leadership this morning for stifling debate on a provision of the energy bill that will affect the future of some 130 rivers in 40 states in the coming decade.

US NRC fines FirstEnergy $5.5-mil for Davis-Besse unit violations (posted 04/21/05)

The agency said $5-mil of the fine was for restarting the Ohio plant after an outage in 2000 "without fully characterizing and eliminating" the leakage. The plant was shut down for two years after the discovery in 2002 of severe degradation resulting from the leakage.

Utility programs sell 1.9 billion kWh of green power in 2004 (posted 04/21/05)

Austin Energy sold 334,446,101 kWh of green power from wind, landfill gas and small hydro facilities last year

VOTE SOLAR ACTION ALERT (posted 04/21/05)

This is the largest solar energy legislation ever introduced in the United States. It would provide ten years of incentives to help achieve 3000 megawatts of solar power for California - equivalent to 60 peaking power plants - that would prevent the release of 50 million tons of greenhouse gas emissions.

White House supports nuclear provisions in energy bill (posted 04/21/05)

The administration supports the use of more nuclear power to diversify the country's energy supply, the White House Office of Management & Budget (OMB) said today, referring to provisions in House energy legislation (H.R.6) that was being debated on the House floor at press time.

Will Bush call address both rising energy prices and the country's need to... (posted 04/21/05)

Successive Congresses and the Bush administration have rejected participation in the Kyoto Accord to reduce emissions of gases associated with global warming because of fears that it would have a serious impact on the American economy.

But it turns out that was an exaggeration.

Wind turbines have 35-fold environmental benefit (posted 04/21/05)

A 3 MW wind turbine generates 35 times more energy during its lifetime than it consumes in production.

China Braces for Summer Power Shortage (posted 04/20/05)

Room temperatures in Beijing municipal government offices will be kept above 26 centigrade this summer to help ameliorate power shortages in the city, says an order issued by the municipal government.

City opts for clean energy sources (posted 04/20/05)

The city has signed on to a statewide effort to reduce reliance on fossil fuels by committing to purchase 20 percent of its municipal electricity from clean energy sources by 2010.

Democrat seeks to remove MTBE provision from House energy bill (posted 04/20/05)

US Representative Lois Capps plans to offer an amendment to address the controversial MTBE-liability provision of the energy bill slated to be debated on the House of Representatives' floor this week.

Economists' Report Boosts California's Case for Solar (posted 04/20/05)

"When you look at the importance of the California program, there is no way that I can see the U.S. market being a meaningful market without California coming out the right way."

Employment trends dip in oil, gas production business (posted 04/20/05)

Employment by the largest US oil and gas companies slipped 4.1% in 2004, the 20th decline in 23 years

Energy Bill Full of Production Incentives Advances in Congress (posted 04/20/05)

A bill aimed at increasing domestic production of energy and bringing down energy prices in the United States has been approved by a House of Representatives committee.

Give Thanks to the Earth This Earth Day, April 22nd (posted 04/20/05)

"The fate of the living planet is the most important issue facing mankind".

Help Pass Global Warming Legislation (posted 04/20/05)

Urge Congress to pass the bi-partisan Climate Stewardship Act

House Energy Bill to Be Introduced This Week (posted 04/20/05)

"With a comprehensive energy bill moving slowly through the Senate, advancing the PTC through means other than the energy bill may allow for a PTC extension at an earlier date."

House Republicans Ask for Bipartisan Support from the Democratic Leadership on the Energy Bill (posted 04/20/05)

This week, House Republicans plan to bring to the floor an energy bill that will help lower the price of gas and reduce our dependence on foreign sources of oil.

Knox group licenses device to enhance renewable energy (posted 04/20/05)

A device to improve the reliability and efficiency of electricity generated by the sun, the wind and other renewable sources has been licensed to a Knoxville organization that hopes to commercialize it.

McGuinty Government Seeks More Clean, Green, Renewable Energy Supply (posted 04/20/05)

 "Green power means clean power, and clean power means better quality air for Ontarians to breathe,

New Pope Could Swing Bible Debate on Environment (posted 04/20/05)

The outcome of that tussle among Christians might influence everything from the pace of exploitation of oil and gas to the level of protection for the world's forests, they say.

Ocean Energy -- Putting It All In Perspective (posted 04/20/05)

If I told you it was possible to generate enough power to sustain the United States forever without releasing greenhouse gases or noxious pollutants and without dependence on foreign nations-would you be interested? The U.S. Government doesn't appear to be.

Officials Want to Wire Earth for Continuous Readout of Vital Signs (posted 04/20/05)

Imagine the planet wired for a nearly continuous readout on its vital signs, shared by all. That's the essence of a White House plan announced Monday.

OPEC unlikely to raise output ceiling for now: Qatar's Attiyah (posted 04/20/05)

Qatari oil minister Abdullah al-Attiyah said Wednesday he believed OPEC was unlikely to adjust its crude output ceiling of 27.5-mil b/d for the time being, adding it was too early to predict what action the cartel might take at its next meeting in June.

Oregon Governor Takes Renewable Energy Stand (posted 04/20/05)

Oregon is inching closer to a final strategy for combating global warming in the Northwest. Gov. Ted Kulongoski announced five new initiatives

Portland General Electric Ranks on National Green Power Top 10 Lists (posted 04/20/05)

According to the national rankings, PGE is second in green power sales volume and third for total number of customers purchasing renewable power

Quote of the day (posted 04/20/05)
"Now I am confident we don't have to increase another 500,000 b/d. Production is more than demand, a lot of oil is going not to refineries but to inventories."
Qatari oil minister Abdullah al-Attiyah said Wednesday referring to another output hike by the oil cartel.
See more industry/OPEC viewpoints at http://www.platts.com/Oil/Resources/Quote of the Day/

Renewable Energy Projects Gaining Momentum (posted 04/20/05)

Due to declining fossil fuel reserves and rising energy demand, businesses are betting on renewable sources of energy as an affordable way to meet some of the world's future energy needs

Renewable Fuels Standard Introduced in the House (posted 04/20/05)

At a time when cuts to the farm bill are being considered, this new, more ambitious RFS proposal represents a beacon of hope for rural America."

Report Says Ships' Tainted Ballast Water Threatens Great Lakes with Foreign Organisms (posted 04/20/05)

The ships often have saltwater algae, invertebrates, deadly bacteria and other organisms in muddy water at the bottoms of their ballast tanks

SPACE WEATHER ADVISORY OUTLOOK #05- 16 (posted 04/20/05)

No significant space weather is expected during the forecast period.

Time to Roll Out, Recycle Old Tires (posted 04/20/05)

Today, the volunteer-based group is focusing on helping residents of Detroit, Hamtramck and Highland Park unload old tires from their basements, garages and backyards -- a nod to Earth Day 2005 and admittedly a tip-of-the-iceberg effort.

US ‘greenwashers’ list published (posted 04/20/05)

Ford and BP are the among America’s worst ‘greenwashers’ for allegedly misleading environmental advertising

US crude imports dip below 10-mil b/d, gasoline output down: EIA (posted 04/20/05)

US crude imports fell by 145,000 b/d to 9.7-mil b/d last week

Gasoline imports last week inched up to 1.09-mil b/d from the prior week's

US Senate Democrats hold alternate 'hearing' on Bush mercury rule (posted 04/20/05)

Kerry and the other senators accused the White House of ordering EPA to issue a weak rule in order to please large energy companies. Sen. Hillary Clinton (Democrat-New York), said the Bush administration asked the energy industry what the emissions targets should be and then "worked backwards" to get there.

US House to begin energy bill debate Wednesday; Bush plans speech (posted 04/20/05)

The US House of Representatives plans to begin debate Wednesday of comprehensive energy legislation that would provide $8-bil in tax incentives for energy development and provide other changes in laws and regulations to promote energy production and conservation.

Utilities may lose big tax credit (posted 04/20/05)

 It could also lead to the complete or partial loss of a controversial but lucrative federal tax credit the companies collect for their production of coal-based synthetic fuel. And that could translate into a significant hit for both companies.

Utility Pollution Settlement Spurs Wind, Solar Projects (posted 04/20/05)

One of the largest New Source Review settlements between the government and industry will result in both the deployment of pollution controls and renewable energy projects.

Will the Real Hybrid Please Drive Up (posted 04/20/05)

"With gas over $2.00 per gallon, and the United States spending more than $300,000 every minute on foreign oil, the promise of hybrid vehicles has never been more important."

Bill aims to deter monopoly-like control (posted 04/19/05)

Protecting Texans against unfair utility bills, spurring electric competition, and shoring up the state's defenses against a California-style power meltdown is the goal of proposed legislation now before the Texas Legislature.

Bush says nuclear has role in U.S. energy mix (posted 04/19/05)

Nuclear power needs to be part of the U.S. energy mix, President Bush said April 16 in his weekly radio address. Repeating a theme in his January address to Congress, Bush said it was important to "promote safe, clean nuclear power."

Coalition Urges Support for Crucial Energy Legislation (posted 04/19/05)

Developments continue to show the desperate need for America to adopt a national energy policy to ensure the availability of essential energy resources. In the absence of an effective energy plan, Americans have suffered

Crystals May Be Sunken Energy Treasure (posted 04/19/05)

It may sound far-fetched, but nations around the globe are racing to find and ultimately tap vast deposits of gas-bearing methane hydrate, an energy source that could dwarf the planet's remaining accessible oil, coal and natural gas reserves.

Despite cost, environmentally friendly biodiesel attracts customers (posted 04/19/05)

At a time when gas prices are at record levels and the region has reached non-attainment status for its bad air, biodiesel is garnering local and national attention.

U.S. Department of Energy Awards $1.9M to Fluent and its Partners for Clean Coal Initiative (posted 04/19/05)

These projects support the goal of developing a zero emissions coal-fired power plant, along with related policy initiatives in energy, climate, and hydrogen, including the FutureGen zero-emissions power plant of the future.

Early Universe Was "Perfect" Fluid, Study Finds (posted 04/19/05)

For a tiny fraction of a second after the "big bang" birth of the universe, all matter was in the form of this liquid, called a quark-gluon plasma

Energy Bill is a Good First Step; NCPA E-Team Scholars Say Plan is Much Improved From Earlier Versions (posted 04/19/05)

 "This bill is a good first step in the right direction," said NCPA Senior Fellow H. Sterling Burnett. "Many of the egregious, market-distorting subsidies are removed or reduced, making it much less expensive and more in line with budget realities."

Firms find it pays to go green (posted 04/19/05)

"Green business" might strike some as an oxymoron, but changing business practices to tread softly on the earth has become an imperative of the environmental movement and corporations are learning to participate in rather than impede the process.

German energy law marks end of energy competition (posted 04/19/05)

Germany's association of new energy suppliers, BNE, said Friday the passing of the country's draft energy law had canceled any chance of gas market competition.

New Voices in National Energy Debate Seek to "Re-Energize America" (posted 04/19/05)

"Re-energize America." Reflecting the growing national consensus on the need to reduce U.S. oil dependence, these leaders are concerned about how national security, job growth, faith-based stewardship and the Western way of life are affected by energy choices.

Oceans Getting Louder; Effects Unclear (posted 04/19/05)

High-profile whale beachings have been linked to sonar blasts and sparked fierce public debate over the military's use of sound in national defense. But a broader concern for scientists is rising levels of ocean background noise

Reliability, PUHCA repeal among energy bill provisions (posted 04/19/05)

Key electricity provisions in the House energy bill, which is slated for debate as early as Wednesday, include those that would create an electric reliability organization to enforce standards on users of the grid, would repeal the Public Utility Holding Company Act and would authorize the US Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to site transmission facilities in certain cases.

SPACE WEATHER ADVISORY OUTLOOK #05- 16 (posted 04/19/05)

Category G1 – minor (12 and 13 April) and G2 – moderate (12 April) geomagnetic storming occurred due to high speed solar winds from a coronal hole on the Sun

Tokyo Gas Intros New Commercial Residential PEFC System (posted 04/19/05)

Tokyo Gas reported that 200 units will be installed in certain areas where maintenance capabilities have been established within Tokyo Gas supply areas by the end of fiscal-year 2005.

US March Producer Price Index rises 0.7%, led by energy costs (posted 04/19/05)

The 3.3% rise in the cost of energy goods followed a 1.4% increase in
February.

US retail gasoline prices slide 4.3 cts to $2.237/gal: EIA (posted 04/19/05)

Retail regular gasoline prices in the US fell by 4.3 cts/gal to $2.237/gal in the survey week ended Monday, the US Energy Information Administration reported. The decline was the first since Feb 14.

Approval to Strengthen Alberta's Major Transmission Corridor (posted 04/18/05)

The Alberta Electric System Operator received the green light from the Alberta Energy and Utilities Board to proceed with the most significant transmission development the province has seen in 20 years.

Awards Recognize Research that Sheds Lights on Ozone UV Disinfection (posted 04/18/05)

identified the sequential application of ozone followed by ultraviolet (UV) light as a cost-effective disinfection strategy to simultaneously inactivate waterborne pathogens and minimize disinfection byproducts.

Bush: US Needs Smarter Ways to Meet Energy Needs (posted 04/18/05)

Under pressure over rising gasoline prices, President Bush said Saturday that energy legislation to be debated on Capitol Hill must encourage conservation and increased production of energy at home.

Chicago Plans to Build Tunnel to Send Rainwater to Lake Michigan (posted 04/18/05)

The city of Chicago announced a plan recently to build a stormwater tunnel connected to McCormick Place that would flush rainwater into Lake Michigan and lessen the burden on the city's sewer lines.

Chinese Power Plant to use Membrane Technology for Desalination Pretreatment (posted 04/18/05)

The ultrafiltration system will produce just over 20 million gallons per day of high quality feedwater, which will then be led to a desalination process for the production of 34,560 cubic meters per day of low saline water, once the plant is running.

Climate warning from the deep (posted 04/18/05)

Strange things are happening in the North Sea. Cod stocks are slumping faster than over-fishing can account for, and Mediterranean species like red mullet are migrating north.

Freak Wave Batters Cruise Liner off Florida (posted 04/18/05)

A freak wave some 70 feet high smashed into a cruise liner as the vessel returned to New York from the Bahamas

FY 2005 Drinking Water Funds Now Available (posted 04/18/05)

The EPA recently announced the availability of FY 2005 congressional appropriations funds for the Public Water System Supervision (PWSS) and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) programs.

German chancellor defends hard coal subsidies (posted 04/18/05)

The chancellor said the government wanted to "keep what we have" and that the opposition CDU's policy of reducing hard coal subsidies by 50% by 2010 would be "a car crash waiting to happen" because Germany needed coal to secure its future energy supply.

Group says Arizona should introduce renewable energy mandates (posted 04/18/05)

Arizona should take the lead in developing solar and other renewable energy sources by mandating that renewables provide 20 percent of total electricity consumed statewide by 2020, a consumer group said in a report unveiled Thursday.

Koch Provides UF Cartridges for U.S. Navy's Potable Water Aid (posted 04/18/05)

These water purification systems can be airlifted using a C-130 transport plane to provide potable water for reconstruction, humanitarian aid and disaster relief.

Nuclear Waste in the Hot Seat (posted 04/18/05)

Controlling nuclear waste is a thorny issue for some of the nation's 103 nuclear facilities. The Government Accountability Office released a report saying that federal regulators have been lax in their oversight, resulting in inadequate safety procedures and the loss of radioactive rods.

Ocean CO2 may 'harm marine life' (posted 04/18/05)

Nearly 50% of the carbon dioxide that humans have pumped into the atmosphere over the last 200 years has been absorbed by the sea, scientists say.

Port Arthur, Texas, officials concerned about pollution from natural gas plants (posted 04/18/05)

The Cheniere facility has been permitted to release up to 557 tons per year of nitrogen oxides, one of the chemicals that creates ozone and smog.

OPEC likely to wait until June for formal ceiling hike: President (posted 04/18/05)

OPEC is likely to raise production unofficially by 500,000 b/d in May to meet expected higher demand, but will defer talks on a formal increase in crude output quotas until its next meeting in June, OPEC president Sheikh Ahmed Fahed al-Sabah said Monday.

Portugal's Worst Drought in 25 Years Worsens (posted 04/18/05)

Portugal's worst drought for 25 years worsened at the start of April, according to an report from the National Weather Institute, with over half the country affected by extreme drought.

Quote of the day (posted 04/18/05)
"In May there will be an increase in production because demand in the third quarter will dictate that we'll increase production in order to guarantee the flow of oil to the market. There will be an automatic increase from the members without a resolution."

OPEC president Sheikh Ahmed Fahed al-Sabah told reporters on Monday in Kuwait City. Last week several OPEC ministers said they saw no reason for a second 500,000 b/d hike to be implemented yet. See more industry/OPEC viewpoints at http://www.platts.com/Oil/Resources/Quote of the Day/

SCE to Solicit More Renewable Power (posted 04/18/05)

Southern California Edison (SCE), the nation's leading purchaser of electricity generated by renewable energy sources -- solar, wind, biomass, geothermal, and small hydro -- today announced its intention to conduct its third competitive solicitation in the last three years for additional renewable power contracts.

Soot Reduces Sunshine Over China, Study Finds (posted 04/18/05)

It is not as sunny as it used to be over China and pollution is probably to blame,

U.S. Department of Energy Praises Offshore Wind Energy Project in Massachusetts (posted 04/18/05)

The U.S. Department of Energy has praised the proposed Nantucket Sound wind farm as an important first step, and perhaps the foundation, of a more focused American wind energy industry.

UniSource Energy Announces New Credit Agreements; TEP Receives Debt Rating Upgrades from Moody's (posted 04/18/05)

Moody's also upgraded its rating of the secured debt of UniSource Energy's principal subsidiary, Tucson Electric Power Company (TEP), by two levels to Baa3, which is considered investment grade.

USDA GRANTS $3.1 MILLION TO CONTINUE SOURCE WATER PROTECTION PROGRAM (posted 04/18/05)

The U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced a $3.1 million grant to the nonprofit National Rural Water Association (NRWA) for continuation of the Source Water Protection Program.

Water Monitoring Data Delivered to the EPA Using Central Data Exchange (posted 04/18/05)

The EPA and the Wind River Reservation are part of a joint effort to pilot the Environmental Sampling, Analysis and Results (ESAR) project.

Water Problems Challenge the Nation (posted 04/18/05)

Calls on the Administration, Congress and Governors to address the growing challenges in the management and protection of the Nation’s water resources and urges the establishment of a National Water Commission to chart a path for the future.

Water Security Congress to Convene in Oklahoma City (posted 04/18/05)

National security experts, water utility managers and emergency responders will gather in Oklahoma City, OK, April 10-12, to confront issues related to the security of water supplies and infrastructure at the third Water Security Congress, hosted by the American Water Works Association (AWWA).

A Simpler, Cheaper Biodiesel Production Process (posted 04/15/05)

A scientist for the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service (ARS) may have found a new way to remove a costly component of biodiesel production.

Advances Continue for Cellulose Ethanol Processing (posted 04/15/05)

Once commercially viable, a process of this type could help reduce dependency on non-renewable and petroleum-based energy and raw material sources.

Arizona Grants Air Permit to Proposed Oil Refinery (posted 04/15/05)

Arizona regulators have granted air permitting for a proposed oil refinery that could be the first US plant of its kind built since the 1970s,

Ballard Plans to Commercialize Vehicle Fuel Cells by 2010 (posted 04/15/05)

it plans to demonstrate a commercially viable fuel cell stack for hydrogen-powered vehicles by 2010.

Bid for Power Refunds Heard (posted 04/15/05)

In the latest court battle over the California energy crisis, lawyers for San Diego and the state of California asked a federal appeals court yesterday to order $6 billion in refunds from power companies that allegedly rigged the market in 2000 and 2001.

Clean Air Watch Warns: House Energy Bill Would Mean More Dirty Air (posted 04/15/05)

The non-profit Clean Air Watch today warned that energy legislation approved last night by a House committee would mean continuing air pollution problems for tens of millions of Americans in communities ranging from Dallas- Fort Worth to greater Connecticut.

DeLay's issues cloud energy bill (posted 04/15/05)

The political controversy swirling around House Majority Leader Tom DeLay is creeping into the debate over an energy bill.

Demand for New Jersey Solar Rebates Surges (posted 04/15/05)

New Jersey's Clean Energy Program has proven so popular that administrators have had to step in and modify it to deal with a surge in interest.

Developing Nations Ripe For Wind, Solar Energy - UN (posted 04/15/05)

Developing countries could install hundreds of thousands of megawatts of renewable energy capacity and help relieve poverty and volatile oil bills in those nations

EIA raises summer US gasoline price forecast (posted 04/15/05)

EIA said it expects summer motor gasoline demand to average 9.3-mil b/d, up 1.8% from last summer, despite higher prices....due to more drivers and vehicles, increasing miles traveled, and larger vehicles with higher horsepower.

FERC Proposes New Rules for Wind Power (posted 04/15/05)

The proposal would establish a new generator imbalance service schedule under the pro forma open access transmission tariff (OATT) for intermittent resources that will aid in the removal of barriers to entering the open access market for these resources.

Generac Power Unveils QT Series Standby Generators (posted 04/15/05)

its new line of automatic standby generators. the new QT Series, which range in output from 15 kW to 150 kW

German EnBW to coordinate reactor data with wind power plant (posted 04/15/05)

EnBW plans to share information on managing its 806MW Brunsbuttel nuclear power plant with the neighboring wind energy plant belonging to Repower at a daily public forum

GT Solar Awarded Exporter of the Year Award (posted 04/15/05)

Renewable energy has historically been sold in terms of its environmental benefits, but the economic benefits are becoming increasingly clear.

Hopes costs pressure may ease as China's demand for oil slows (posted 04/15/05)

PROSPECTS for consumer relief from sharply rising oil prices improved yesterday as new data suggested that the sharp rise in China's demand for oil, was at last tapering off.

House Energy Committee passes energy legislation (posted 04/15/05)

Domenici said he was particularly pleased to see that the bill passed the House committee "by such a wide, bipartisan margin." He said he would try to build on Barton's success when the Senate Energy Committee takes up the bill this spring. The bill is expected to move to the House floor for a vote next week.

Hydrogen Proposal Would Include Solar, Nuclear (posted 04/15/05)

"When we can use our nation's own resources to create clean, dependable energy like hydrogen, our nation's power prices will become less susceptible to price swings brought on by foreign governments."

Kelley Blue Book Poll Shows Buyers Opting for Smaller Vehicles as Gas Prices Rise (posted 04/15/05)

Reveals that if gas prices reach more than $3 a gallon, as predicted by many energy analysts, in-market vehicle buyers' purchase decisions will be profoundly affected.

Kerr-McGee asset sale could cut 2005 gas production 25% (posted 04/15/05)

Nearly all of Kerr-McGee's gas production comes from US onshore and offshore plays. Kerr-McGee said it will sell properties on the Gulf of Mexico shelf, the North Sea and in certain onshore US locations.

Oil prices drop nearly $2 a barrel (posted 04/15/05)

Oil prices fell to their lowest level in six weeks Tuesday, dropping nearly $2 a barrel after the International Energy Agency forecast slower growth in oil demand this year.

OPEC raises 2005 call on OPEC oil 120,000 b/d to 29.11-mil b/d (posted 04/15/05)

OPEC on Friday raised a forecast for growth in world oil demand this year for the fifth straight month and lowered an estimate for supply from rival producers, boosting the need for its oil.

Pennsylvania Provides $10 Million for Clean Energy Projects (posted 04/15/05)

“Pennsylvania is leading the way in the development and deployment of new technology, offering significant financial incentives to make energy manufacturing a cornerstone of our economic future and ensuring that more electricity generation comes from environmentally beneficial resources,”

Price of coal surges (posted 04/15/05)

Since the beginning of the year, Basin coal for next-quarter delivery has risen 19 percent, and coal for 2006 delivery has risen 23 percent.

Renewable Fuels Standard Introduced in the House (posted 04/15/05)

An expanded Renewable Fuels Standard will boost biofuels production of biodiesel.

Starbucks Makes Commitment to Renewable Energy (posted 04/15/05)

Starbucks Corp. said Thursday that 5 percent of the electricity it needs to power its company-owned US stores this year will be bought from renewable energy sources such as wind power.

White House's EPA Nominee Blocked Again in Senate (posted 04/15/05)

The Bush administration's nomination of Stephen Johnson to head the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was blocked again Thursday after he refused to analyze a Democratic proposal to cut utility air pollution.

Coalition Presses Electric Companies over Global Warming Risks (posted 04/14/05)

A coalition of environmentally oriented shareholders on Wednesday called on dozens of the nation's biggest electric utilities to report within a year on the financial risks they face from complying with regulations to address global warming.

Company's Proposed Plant Would Convert Garbage to Energy (posted 04/14/05)

BISBEE, Arizona — Cochise County took a small first step toward letting a California startup build a $50 million plant meant to turn garbage into energy.

Fast-growing China 'to put brake on oil consumption' (posted 04/14/05)

GROWTH in demand for oil is expected to slow for the first time in two years as China reins in runaway consumption, the International Energy Agency said yesterday.

Fuel Made from Plutonium Arrives in U.S., Despite Protests (posted 04/14/05)

A French shipment of nuclear power plant fuel made from weapons-grade plutonium arrived in the United States despite protests it poses environmental and terrorist risks.

House approves NRC's fee recovery requirement amendment (posted 04/14/05)

NRC's 90% fee recovery requirement would remain in effect beyond fiscal 2005 under an amendment approved today by the House Energy & Commerce Committee.

House panel nixes effort to strip E&P incentives from energy bill (posted 04/14/05)

The US House Resources Committee Wednesday rejected an amendment to delete provisions from energy legislation that would provide incentives for oil and gas production.

Keeping Santee afloat (posted 04/14/05)

The Santee River has landed on a list of the nation's 10 most imperiled waterways as a fight escalates over the river's future.

Nuclear plant workers to receive more benefits (posted 04/14/05)

The government has expanded eligibility for a program designed to provide medical benefits and compensation to nuclear plant workers injured by exposure to toxic substances.

Ontario Gives OK to Four Clean Energy Projects (posted 04/14/05)

Ontario gave the green light to four electricity projects on Wednesday to provide a cleaner supply of energy and help meet power demand as the province shutters older coal-fired plants.

Rally today at Lyonsdale plant against NY state provision (posted 04/14/05)

A provision in the proposed state budget that could negatively affect the Tug Hill wind farm's second phase may also put the Lyonsdale wood-fired cogeneration plant in jeopardy.

Tacoma Power takes Air Force to federal court (posted 04/14/05)

Fed up with rising electricity rates?

Want to hold back part of your bill?

Fine. Just don't expect the lights to stay on for long.

Thermal efficiency mandate dropped from comprehensive energy bill (posted 04/14/05)

The US House of Representatives Energy and Commerce Committee voted on the coal title of the comprehensive energy bill in quick order Wednesday. Only two amendments were discussed.

Valve closes on runaway worldwide demand for oil (posted 04/14/05)

RUNAWAY demand for oil is finally slowing down, according to the latest bulletin from the International Energy Agency (IEA).

Wind Energy an Important Contributor to Kyoto Plan (posted 04/14/05)

Expansion of Canadian wind energy production clearly illustrates that reducing greenhouse gas emissions can bring important economic and environmental benefits to Canada.

Wind Farm Proposed East of Diagonal (posted 04/14/05)

A steady wind howls along U.S. 36 in eastern Adams County, kicking a tumbleweed across the highway and pressing it hard against a fence line.

As Tax Day April 15 Looms, Words of Treasury Sec. John Snow Ring True: 'Higher Energy Prices Act Like Tax'  (posted 04/13/05)

Consumers who are busily completing their Form 1040s to meet this Friday's "Tax Day" filing deadline can confirm the observation of Treasury Secretary John Snow that "higher energy prices act like a tax.  They reduce the disposable income people have available for other things after they've paid their energy bills."

Can renewables even keep up with ballooning energy demands?  (posted 04/13/05)

The Chairman and CEO of Exxon Mobil Corporation, said that by 2030, "the combination of economic growth and population increases can be expected to lead to a rise in primary energy demand of about 50 percent worldwide."

Controversial US chemical study scrapped  (posted 04/13/05)

The CHEERS (Children’s Environmental Exposure Research Study) programme, which was suspended in November after an initial outcry, had been scheduled to run for two years.

Deere wants to help with wind power  (posted 04/13/05)

Deere and Co. wants to add something else to its product line besides John Deere tractors for U.S. farmers: wind energy.

Energy, Farms, Water Seen Aided by Nanotechnology  (posted 04/13/05)

Futuristic microscopic devices could store energy, raise farm output and purify water to help the world reach 2015 goals of curbing poverty, according to a report on Tuesday.

EU Court Rules for Britain in Nuke Waste Plan Case  (posted 04/13/05)

European Union member states do not have to inform the EU executive Commission about the decommissioning of military installations, the bloc's highest court ruled on Tuesday.

EU Denies British Bid to Raise CO2 Emissions Limit  (posted 04/13/05)

The European Commission on Tuesday denied Britain's request to increase the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) its companies may emit in the period 2005-2007.

Federal Solar Energy Bill Rewards State Leadership  (posted 04/13/05)

Natural gas and solar energy don't often cross paths. But U.S. Sen. Lamar Alexander has proposed a natural gas bill that would rely on increased use of solar energy technology to cushion the natural gas market.

Green image dented by rise in emissions  (posted 04/13/05)

BP's emissions of greenhouse gases increased last year on a like- for- like basis, dealing a blow to the company's attempts to portray itself as the world's most environmentally friendly oil major.

High oil price raises factory material costs at record rate  (posted 04/13/05)

THE COST of raw materials used by British factories rose at a record pace last month, due to the high price of crude oil.

Homeowners Can Make Global Impact  (posted 04/13/05)

When it comes to global warming, one household really can make a big difference. Home energy use causes more pollution than the average car.

China Warns Japan Against Gas Exploration - Kyodo  (posted 04/13/05)

Chinese State Councillor Tang Jiaxuan warned Japan on Tuesday not to give Japanese firms rights to drill for gas near Chinese gas projects in the East China Sea,

Japan moves on own drilling in disputed East China Sea gas fields  (posted 04/13/05)

Amid heightened tensions with China, the Japanese government has finally set in motion the process of granting domestic private companies the right to conduct exploratory drilling in disputed East China Sea gas fields--a step it had been reluctant to take for the past decades.

NRC, Congress tackle controversy over interim storage site in Utah  (posted 04/13/05)

explained that Reid's action was in retaliation against the Utah Senate delegation for not supporting Nevada's attempt in 2002 to block construction of the DOE repository planned for Yucca Mountain

Nuclear facilities found to have lax safety procedures  (posted 04/13/05)

Pervasive problems plague the control of radioactive waste at the nation's nuclear power plants, in part because the federal government has been sluggish in instituting and enforcing safeguards, according to a federal report issued Monday.

Peru Presents Machu Picchu Plan to UNESCO  (posted 04/13/05)

to preserve the famous Inca citadel, Machu Picchu, from the ravages of tourism and avoid losing its status as a World Heritage site

Power plant plans shrink  (posted 04/13/05)

Black Hills Power has scaled back its plan for a 500-megawatt coal-fired power plant to 100 megawatts, according to the company.

Russian Nuke Plant Officials Accused of Dumping  (posted 04/13/05)

Russian prosecutors accused officials at the country's oldest nuclear processing plant of dumping radioactive waste in a criminal case ecologists hope leads to its eventual closure

SCE Seeks Approval to Build Devers Transmission Line  (posted 04/13/05)

authorization to construct the Devers-Palo Verde2 (DPV2) Project, which will include a 230-mile, high-voltage electric transmission line between California and Arizona to provide California electricity customers with greater access to low-cost, surplus generation in Arizona.

South Texas co-op eyes two new members, building coal plant  (posted 04/13/05)

The plant is likely to begin commercial operations between 2010 and 2012

State report backs wind and biomass, but not solar  (posted 04/13/05)

Wind, biomass and hydro are “viable renewable energy options” for the state of Oklahoma, according to a committee report filed with the state legislature.

UK Labour party manifesto calls for energy mix including nuclear  (posted 04/13/05)

The UK Labour party Wednesday published its manifesto ahead of the May 5 general election, and pledged to work towards a balanced energy mix including nuclear power.

US House Energy panel approves amendment on halt to SPR fill  (posted 04/13/05)

The House Energy and Commerce Committee Tuesday approved an amendment that would suspend the filling of the US Strategic Petroleum Reserve until oil prices fall below $40/bbl for two consecutive weeks.

US House Panel Resumes Writing Energy Bill  (posted 04/13/05)

With US gasoline prices at a record high for the fourth week in a row, a House committee is set to resume debating on Tuesday a broad energy bill that aims to boost long-term petroleum supplies.

Volcano, Quakes Spark Fears on Indonesia's Sumatra  (posted 04/13/05)

A volcano on Indonesia's Sumatra island erupted on Tuesday sending hot ash high into the air and forcing the evacuation of hundreds of villagers

Why the Alternatives to Oil are So Important  (posted 04/13/05)

The problem is that oil soon will become scarce - demand will outstrip supply. We have seen the mere threat of oil shortage drive the price of oil up. Oil production will peak worldwide sometime soon and begin to decline.

Wind Industry Angles for Tax Credit on Capitol Hill  (posted 04/13/05)

Not only does the wind power industry need to secure a federal production tax credit beyond 2005, but ideally, they need to secure it for a multi-year stage to offer stability to the industry's business climate.

California Needs Federal Muscle for Major Power Line Project, PMT Reports  (posted 04/12/05)

Construction of a 1,300 mile, high voltage transmission line from the Rockies to bail out power-short California will require federal legislation to coordinate the multi-state project

German Carmakers Cringe Over Diesel Filter Debate  (posted 04/12/05)

German carmakers are keeping their fingers crossed that a high-profile domestic debate about diesel motors' impact on air quality does not scare away buyers at a time when sales are already weak.

Ghost of Past Oil Crises Haunts World Economy  (posted 04/12/05)

Prices are sky high, China is fast becoming as big a consumer as the United States, conflict in the Middle East threatens deliveries and some experts say there's not much oil left in the ground.

KYOTO PROTOCOL MAY COST S.KOREA MORE THAN JAPAN, STUDY WARNS  (posted 04/12/05)

 "In 2010, coal will account for around 38 per cent of electricity generation in South Korea, whereas in Japan it is only 22 per cent,"

NRC must sort out spent fuel control, accountability  (posted 04/12/05)

The report, requested by four legislators, was prompted by the discovery of missing spent fuel at Dominion's Millstone in 2000 and at Entergy Nuclear's Vermont Yankee and Pacific Gas and Electric Co's Humboldt Bay plants in 2004. The fuel later was accounted for at Vermont Yankee, but never found.

Quote of the day  (posted 04/12/05)
"Fears of a surge in second-quarter Chinese demand are receding, OPEC is raising production and oil stocks are at a higher base than previously reported."
(The International Energy Agency said Tuesday that world oil demand will rise slower than expected in 2005 as concerns ease of a surge in consumption from China.)
See more industry/OPEC viewpoints. http://www.platts.com/Oil/Resources/Quote of the Day/

The Reality of Fuel Cells  (posted 04/12/05)

Build a better mousetrap and the world will beat a path to your door. At least that is how the old saying goes. It is doubtful the world would bother, if the price of the trap were ten times that of the old-time standard. This is the problem with the latest acclaimed energy device, the fuel cell.

Solomon Signs Electric Wheel Inventor Jonathan Edwards  (posted 04/12/05)

Jonathan Edwards, the inventor of the Electric Wheel™ technology, has become a consultant to the company.

SPACE WEATHER ADVISORY OUTLOOK #05- 15  (posted 04/12/05)

Category G1 – minor geomagnetic storming is possible on 13 April due to high speed solar winds from a coronal hole on the Sun.

States to Receive $7.9 Million for Mine Safety Training  (posted 04/12/05)

 "Thousands of miners nationwide stand to benefit from the safety and health training these grants provide,

The Energy Challenge - Wind Revisited  (posted 04/12/05)

Surprisingly there seems to have been a sharp increase in anti wind articles during 2004. The primary objection raised by these articles is bird-kill

This is how energy competition is supposed to work  (posted 04/12/05)

When the architects of energy deregulation launched California on the road to a free market for electricity in the 1990s, they must have had something like the SMUD/PG&E example in mind: two systems side by side, essentially doing the same thing, except one routinely charges less for electricity than the other.

US gas utilities call for more domestic drilling, LNG imports  (posted 04/12/05)

the group urged him to "do everything in your power to reduce natural gas prices" as the committee continues marking up the Energy Policy Act.

US Rocket over Newfoundland Oil Area Delayed Again  (posted 04/12/05)

The US Air Force has delayed for the second time its launch of a rocket over Newfoundland's oil-producing region after Canadian and US officials failed to agree on safety and environmental risks

VRB Power Acquires Global Patents to the VRB Technology  (posted 04/12/05)

VRB Power has acquired outright, world-wide patents to the VRB technology except for the Australian based patents, which will remain with Pinnacle. The effect of this share sale is that VRB Power in no longer a shareholder of Pinnacle and Pinnacle is no longer a subsidiary of VRB Power.

For information on Vanadium Batteries on this site go to the FuelCell Page.

Arizona House OKs bill allowing Palo Verde guards to use force  (posted 04/11/05)

Guards at the 3,810MW Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station in Wintersburg, Arizona, would be justified in using deadly force against suspected terrorists under a bill passed by the Arizona House on a 52-3 vote Monday.

Bill offered to allow hydrogen facility near nuclear plant  (posted 04/11/05)

a bill (H.R. 1482) that would provide for research and development of an advanced nuclear reactor, as well as for solar and wind technologies capable of co-producing hydrogen.

DWR Recommends $25 Million in Prop 50 Water Desalination Grants  (posted 04/11/05)

Local agencies, water districts, academic and research institutions will be able to use the funds for construction, pilot and demonstration projects, research and development, and feasibility studies to increase new water supplies using desalinization.

EC sues Ireland for ignoring public after wind farm landslide  (posted 04/11/05)

The European Commission is taking the Irish Republic authorities to the
European Court of Justice for failing to carry out a second environmental impact assessment of a planned wind farm

EPA Cancels Proposed Study that Would Have Exposed Children to Pesticides  (posted 04/11/05)

The Environmental Protection Agency on Friday canceled a controversial study using children to measure the effect of pesticides after Democrats said they would block Senate confirmation of the agency's new head.

House panel wants independent probe of Yucca Mountain allegations  (posted 04/11/05)

A House government reform panel will call for the creation of an
independent special commission to investigate allegations that a U.S.
Geological Survey (USGS) hydrologist falsified Yucca Mountain documents between 1998 and 2000.

Indonesia looks to coalbed methane as oil, gas output dwindles  (posted 04/11/05)

The Indonesian government is preparing to invite investors to explore deposits of coalbed methane, natural gas found in association with coal seams, for development as an alternative source of energy.

Interior Turns Down Request for Testimony from Yucca Mountain Scientists  (posted 04/11/05)

Three scientists involved with e-mails about falsifying documents on the Yucca Mountain nuclear waste dump won't be made available to testify before a congressional panel,

Japanese Premier Installs Fuel Cell Power Generator at Residence  (posted 04/11/05)

introduced Friday what they claim are the world's first commercial fuel cell power generation units at a newly built residence for Prime Minister

Moderate weather obscured a tight US natural gas market  (posted 04/11/05)

Raymond James' chief energy analyst Marshall Adkins said Monday that the natural gas market is tighter than it appears, as last year's moderate weather kept gas storage levels higher than usual. "Weather has hidden the fact that the US gas market is actually tighter than many believe," Adkins said.

NGWA Tells U.S. Senate Committee Nation’s Ground Water Needs More Study  (posted 04/11/05)

In considering the nation’s increasing demand for water, the federal government should support efforts to study the largest source of available fresh water--ground water

OPEC output increase likely in May despite price drop  (posted 04/11/05)

OPEC will most likely press ahead with an increase in its production ceiling in May despite the recent sharp fall in oil prices in an effort to satisfy expected higher demand in the third quarter

Saudi Arabia rushing to add 300,000 b/d of capacity in Q1 2006  (posted 04/11/05)

Saudi Arabia has challenged contractors to try to complete work on the Haradh Gas Oil Separation Plant six months ahead of schedule

States Ask Court to Force EPA Action on Greenhouse Gases  (posted 04/11/05)

The case has big potential implications for numerous federal and state programs under the Clean Air Act, as well as for the auto industry.

The King is Commander, the Enemy Drought, as 'Cloud Attackers' Take to the Skies  (posted 04/11/05)

For the past month, aircraft stationed at airfields around Thailand have been flying sorties almost daily, carrying out a mission of national importance -- the war on drought, the country's worst in seven years.

UK Water Rates to Jump 12%  (posted 04/11/05)

The average household water bills in England and Wales are set to rise nearly 12 percent beginning Friday.

Call for Bottled Water Stockpile in UK  (posted 04/11/05)

Bottled water companies in the UK have been asked to build up emergency supplies in case of a summer drought.

Wind Shifts on Bat-Turbine Study  (posted 04/11/05)

After two years of documenting the fact its wind turbines in Tucker County are killing large numbers of bats, FPL Energy wants to focus research this summer on possible solutions to the problem.

House Energy Bill to Be Introduced This Week  (posted 04/08/05)

The bill contains a rebate program for residential and small commercial installations of renewable energy systems.

Run-of-the-river Hydro Builds First Nation Economy  (posted 04/08/05)

A 6.5 MW, run-of-the-river hydro power facility at China Creek in the Vancouver Islands will generate revenues for two native North American communities, or "First Nations", and supply power to the BC Hydro grid.

New Solar, Wind Rebate Program Launched  (posted 04/08/05)

Believe it or not, generous renewable energy rebates do exist in states besides California. The latest effort comes from Massachusetts

U.S. Dithers on Clean Energy, but Calls on China to Act  (posted 04/08/05)

With China's economy and energy needs booming, the latest article lays out the State Department's concern that China become a responsible energy consumer -- even calling on them to develop "cleaner technologies and alternative sources of energy." While this is a laudable goal for any country, particularly China, this message comes at a time when the current administration and lawmakers in Congress are doing little themselves to support clean, renewable energy.

Bulgaria Approves New Nuclear Plant Construction  (posted 04/08/05)

The Balkan country is building the plant to maintain its position as the leading power exporter in southeast Europe as it shuts down two ageing Soviet-made nuclear reactors before joining the European Union in 2007.

CALIFORNIA - CEC Launches Global Climate-Change Web Resource  (posted 04/08/05)

The site combines previous CEC web pages on climate change with links to other California state agencies and private entities that address the impacts that the approaching climatic phenomenon can have on California's resources, agriculture, ecosystems, forestry, water supply and its overall economy.

CALIFORNIA - Revised Strategic Plan for Stationary Fuel Cells Released  (posted 04/08/05)

The CaSFCC was established in June 2001 to accelerate the deployment of stationary fuel-cell technology in California.

COLORADO - PUC Invites Public Comment on Proposed Net Metering, IC Rules  (posted 04/08/05)

The proposed rules (Docket No. 05R-112E) apply to providers of retail electric service that serve more than 40,000 customers.

Commercialisation of vanadium battery is advancing strongly  (posted 04/08/05)

Canadian-based company VRB Power Systems’ patented Vanadium Redox Battery Energy Storage System (VRB-ESS), which has strong links to South Africa, has commercialised the VRB-ESS (large systems 50 kW to 10 MW) and is in late commercialisation phase for 2,5 to 20 kW systems

DOE prefers off-site disposal of Moab U tailings  (posted 04/08/05)

welcomed "the decision in favor of moving millions of tons of radioactive uranium processing waste off the banks of the Colorado River, which is a major source of drinking water for Southern Californians, as well as residents of Utah, Nevada and Arizona."

Experts Question Worth of $16 Million US Terror Drill  (posted 04/08/05)

The largest-ever US terrorism drill was staged this week in New Jersey and Connecticut with a cast of thousands and a cost of $16 million, but experts wonder how much it will help in the face of another attack.

Governor inks three energy bills today  (posted 04/08/05)

"The legislative session was very productive in terms of advancing the governor's clean energy agenda."

Greenpeace Objects to Plans for 234-Turbine Wind Farm  (posted 04/08/05)

GREENPEACE has made its first ever objection to an onshore wind farm in the UK - the massive 234 turbine development around Stornoway on Lewis - spelling a major setback for the renewables industry in Scotland.

Hackers Try to Infiltrate U.S. Power Grid Hundreds of Times Daily  (posted 04/08/05)

Fears that terrorists might seek to wage a cyber-attack on the U.S. power grid have escalated.

Hydrogen isn't 'free lunch'  (posted 04/08/05)

free hydrogen is not available for collection, as are the so-called fossil fuels

National Energy Plan Needs to Put Consumers First  (posted 04/08/05)

Noting that estimates indicate oil consumption in the U.S. will increase by one-third and electricity demand by more than 45 percent by 2025, Dr. Burnett said America must have a comprehensive national energy bill that includes several critical policies

Nine States File Suit Challenging EPA Mercury Rule   (posted 04/08/05)

the states claim fails to protect the public adequately from harmful mercury emissions from coal-fired power plants.

Nuke plants' storage called ripe for attack ; Scientists want better security for fuel  (posted 04/08/05)

Fuel storage pools at nuclear power plants in 31 states may be vulnerable to terrorist attacks that could unleash raging fires and deadly radiation, scientists advised the government on Wednesday.

OPEC production  (posted 04/08/05)

Platts publishes monthly estimates of OPEC production, based on a survey of OPEC and oil industry officials, on a country-by-country basis.

Sen. Byrd moves to extend program to clean up abandoned mines  (posted 04/08/05)

With time again running down, U.S. Sen. Robert C. Byrd on Wednesday moved to temporarily rescue the federal program that cleans up abandoned coal mines.

US Gasoline Use Strong Despite Record Prices - Governent  (posted 04/08/05)

Demand this summer for US gasoline will rise 1.8 percent from last summer, helping push pump prices to a peak monthly average of $2.35 a gallon in May, the federal government said on Thursday.

US Court to Hear States Push EPA on Global Warming  (posted 04/08/05)

A US court of appeals will hear arguments on Friday in a case to determine whether existing laws require federal environmental regulators to limit carbon dioxide emissions from automobiles.

US senators block floor vote on nomination of new EPA chief  (posted 04/08/05)

"The idea that [EPA] would pay parents to expose their children to toxins is absolutely reprehensible," Boxer said.

Vortechs System Helps Protect Famous Fishing Grounds  (posted 04/08/05)

For several years, officials at the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) looked at water quality solutions for Manistee Lake.

Western governors encourage private transmission effort  (posted 04/08/05)

The governors of four western states agreed Monday to partner on the Frontier Line, a project which calls for substantial construction of power generators and transmission lines.

A Fragile Peace in the Desert  (posted 04/07/05)

Ethnic clashes, blamed on competition for increasingly scarce water and grazing, are sweeping northern Kenya, as drought and famine intensify in the neglected region.

Asean+3 meet in Vietnam to discuss building oil reserves  (posted 04/07/05)

Oil policy makers from China, Japan, South Korea and the Association of South Asian Nations, known collectively as Asean+3, held a meeting in Hanoi to discuss steps to build strategic oil reserves in the Asian region

Biodiesel increasingly popular  (posted 04/07/05)

If fans of biodiesel get their way, 2005 will be the first year in which thousands of drivers fill their tanks with the increasingly popular alternative to petroleum diesel at a network of public fuelling stations.

Bolivia proposes gas supply to Chile in exchange for sea access  (posted 04/07/05)

Bolivian President Carlos Mesa said that his country is willing to sell natural gas to Chile if Chile agrees to provide the land-locked country an access to the Pacific Ocean.

Can anyone stop the rise in oil prices?  (posted 04/07/05)

As the price of oil nears $ 58 a barrel, the price of regular gasoline at the pump may soon exceed $ 2.40 a gallon. And if oil crests above $ 60 a barrel, Americans could be paying as much as $ 2.75 a gallon by the time the summer driving season gets under way.

China Set to Build 40 Nuclear Power Generation Units Within 15 Years  (posted 04/07/05)

"Nuclear power will play increasing important role in the development of China's power industry

CO2 cap would boost Northeast US power price $4/MWh: consultants  (posted 04/07/05)

Wholesale power prices in nine northeast states could rise by $4/MWh if the states agree to impose a cap on power plant emissions of carbon dioxide, consultants for the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative said Wednesday in Boston.

Could green certificates transform the European renewables market  (posted 04/07/05)

Platts looks at prospects for green certificates, and their current use in the market.

Diesel thief blamed as fuel pours into river  (posted 04/07/05)

The spill, the worst to hit the river in decades, was caused by a break-in to a road transport depot

Drilling for oil? Start prospecting in London!  (posted 04/07/05)

The London stock market is going through a speculative frenzy over oil exploration stocks

Driver U-Turn  (posted 04/07/05)

Gasoline prices have risen worldwide and drivers are rethinking their driving habits. The trend is moving towards alternative fuels.

Enterprise Florida Wants Out of Responsibility to Encourage Use of Solar Power  (posted 04/07/05)

Florida may be the Sunshine State. But maybe not when it comes to courting business.

Happy Birthday!!  (posted 04/07/05)

The most effective law worldwide to promote the use of renewable energy celebrates its 5th birthday. And there is good reason to celebrate!

How illegal oil bunkerers practise their trade  (posted 04/07/05)

The communities are bristling with nocturnal activities again as pipeline vandals are staging a gradual comeback.

India and China locked in energy game  (posted 04/07/05)

"China is ahead of us in planning for its energy security -- India can no longer be complacent." These words conveyed the sense of urgency that India holds over meeting its energy needs.
India is playing catch-up with other major players in the global energy game.

Indigenous Peoples Protest Coal Mining  (posted 04/07/05)

peoples from the westernmost region of Venezuela marched on the capital to demand a halt to coal mining near their lands

More Investors Eye Alternative Energy  (posted 04/07/05)

As oil and gas prices soar, investor interest in alternative energy start-ups is rising for the first time in four years.

MOX Conditions Will Be Met  (posted 04/07/05)

A shipment of nuclear fuel containing weapons-grade plutonium is expected to arrive in Charleston any day now, and Duke Power has been given the green light to test the fuel - called mixed-oxide fuel, or MOX - at the Catawba Nuclear Station.

NAS report makes security recommendations for U.S. reactors  (posted 04/07/05)

Plant-by-plant vulnerability analyses should be performed on the 103 operating nuclear reactors in the U.S. to determine which ones might be at risk from terrorist attacks

Norway prepared to help Iraq build up oil industry  (posted 04/07/05)

Norway, a major oil exporter, is prepared to help Iraq build up its oil industry by sharing experience, training and technology, a deputy minister said.
"There is real interest in doing this and getting it going this year,"

OPEC to keep production high but warns of refining bottlenecks  (posted 04/07/05)

"Although (world) economic growth has been revised slightly down to 4.1 %, solid consumption in several OECD countries and China has once again led to an upward adjustment in global oil demand growth

Oregon lawmakers consider bill giving residents more say in power plant sites  (posted 04/07/05)

Natural gas-fired power plants are hulking industrial behemoths that generate electricity to feed the growing needs of the West.

Philippines, China and Vietnam agree to explore South China Sea areas  (posted 04/07/05)

"This is a historic event because it is the first, it is the breakthrough in implementing the provisions of the code of conduct in the South China Sea among ASEAN and China to turn the South China Sea into an area of cooperation rather than an area of conflict

Playing with frozen fire  (posted 04/07/05)

Vast reserves of methane hydrates -- a form of natural gas -- could power the world for decades to come. But mining the deep, frozen deposits presents an enormous technical challenge.

Regulators approve air permit for oil refinery in Arizona  (posted 04/07/05)

The refinery would be built by Phoenix-based Arizona Clean Fuels on desert land 40 miles east of Yuma. Arizona, one of the fastest-growing states, has seen gasoline prices spike several times in recent years.

Report touts wind, biomass energy sources  (posted 04/07/05)

and the cost to produce it is less than the cost of power made with natural gas

Research team discovers new formula for cheaper catalysts  (posted 04/07/05)

a University of Delaware research team has discovered a novel formulation to operate pollution-dampening catalytic converters without the need for expensive noble metals.

Rolls-Royce in venture to develop fuel cell-based power system  (posted 04/07/05)

 Under the agreement, Rolls-Royce will hold a 75 percent stake in Rolls-Royce Fuel Cell Systems Ltd., a company which it already formed in 2003 to develop solid oxide fuel cell

Saudi Arabia’s oil production falls  (posted 04/07/05)

"The Saudis were afraid of stocks going up and prices coming down," Petrologistics President Conrad Gerber told. "They were taken by surprise and it wasn't easy for them to reverse mid-month," he added.

Senate Bill Puts Offshore Drilling in State Hands  (posted 04/07/05)

US states could allow drilling for natural gas in restricted offshore waters under legislation proposed Wednesday by Republican Sen. Lamar Alexander.

Senators Leahy and Snowe Offer Bill to Cut Mercury Pollution  (posted 04/07/05)

On the heels of recent revelations of EPA's hiding information about the health effects of mercury exposure, Sens. Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) and Olympia Snowe (R- Maine) Wednesday introduced a comprehensive bill to control mercury emissions from coal-fired power plants and other sources.

Solar Industry Hails U.S. Senator's Solar Bill  (posted 04/07/05)

"Solar is the ideal renewable energy technology to displace a portion of the natural gas demand and relieve some of the tightness in the natural gas markets."

- Rhone Resch, president of the Solar Energy Industries Association

Spain overtakes Germany as the leading wind power market  (posted 04/07/05)

Spain's wind power market, which trailed Germany by a narrow margin in 2004, is expected to emerge in 2005 as Europe's largest, and to remain so through 2010

Supes vote 3-2 for wind farm  (posted 04/07/05)

Coconino County is set to be the first in Arizona to harness wind energy on a large scale after a close 3-2 vote by the board of supervisors Tuesday.

The battle for Canada's underground resources  (posted 04/07/05)

While Congress debates whether to allow oil and gas drilling in Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, a similar battle with much higher stakes is under way in northwest Canada.

The price is NOT the answer!  (posted 04/07/05)

it seems that the warnings for climatic catastrophes if we continue like this, are forgotten in the scramble for new information.

Tribe Wins in Hydro Dispute at Snoqualmie Falls  (posted 04/07/05)

The Snoqualmie Tribe has made "a significant step" in its long-running legal battle with Puget Sound Energy to scale back the amount of water used to generate power at Snoqualmie Falls, a site the tribe considers sacred.

U.S. May Not Build Waste Dump  (posted 04/07/05)

The planned nuclear waste dump at Yucca Mountain in Nevada won't be built unless the Energy Department is confident of the supporting science after investigating e-mails that showed workers discussing fabricating data, an official said Tuesday.

UN: Foundation stone laid for energy resource and training centre in Indonesia  (posted 04/07/05)

initiated in 2003 to promote rural electrification in a sustainable way

US Lawmakers Want Daylight-Saving Time Change  (posted 04/07/05)

A House committee voted Wednesday to expand US daylight-saving time by two months to help reduce energy consumption, but rejected a plan to shave total US oil demand by 1 million barrels a day.

US EIA predicts natural gas demand will rise 1.7% in 2005  (posted 04/07/05)

The US Energy Information Administration on Thursday said US gas demand will rise by 1.7% in 2005, down from the 2.2% growth rate it predicted last month.

US summer retail gasoline price to peak at $2.35/gal: EIA  (posted 04/07/05)

US retail regular-grade gasoline prices are expected to peak in May at a monthly average price of about $2.35/gal, although weekly prices and some regional prices will likely be higher

US nuclear waste at risk from terrorists, analysis needed: study  (posted 04/07/05)

Spent nuclear fuel stored in pools at some of the 103 operating power reactors in the United States may be at risk of terrorist attacks, according to a National Academies Board on Radioactive Waste Management committee report Wednesday.

Used Nuclear Fuel Is Stored Safely and Securely at Well-Protected Nuclear Power Plants, According to Study  (posted 04/07/05)

The industry since September 2001 has invested $1 billion-plus in security improvements at our power plants, including used fuel storage facilities, to make them more secure than ever.

Utilities seek break for failing to fulfill 'green power' quota  (posted 04/07/05)

Nevada Power Co. and Sierra Pacific Power Co. on Friday asked state regulators to grant them an exemption so they will not be fined for failing to meet the state's renewable energy requirements last year.

Ways in which Chinese demand for energy could slow down  (posted 04/07/05)

China's red-hot economy is driving up oil prices. Or at least that's one key reason why many analysts expect energy costs to go up even further before they start coming back down.

World’s first purpose-built fuel-cell motorbike unveiled  (posted 04/07/05)

A zero-emission motorcycle that glides silently through city streets might sound the ideal way to remain mobile in a world of dwindling oil supplies.
Yet there is a snag with this transport revolution.

SPACE WEATHER ADVISORY OUTLOOK #05- 14  (posted 04/06/05)

No significant space weather is expected during the forecast period.

U.S. governor installs solar panels on official residence  (posted 04/06/05)

 The governor's residence in Pennsylvania has installed a solar power system.

Energy debate should not be renewables vs conventionals  (posted 04/06/05)

A “most crucial issue” is for the United Kingdom to undertake an audit of energy resources that are available now, and to use that audit as a basis to develop renewables and conventional energy sources in the future.

Solar - fuel cell system installed in New York  (posted 04/06/05)

A solar PV system has been installed on Long Island to work with fuel cells.

Hawaiian group seeks more green power projects to fund  (posted 04/06/05)

The electric utility in Hawaii is seeking investment opportunities in renewable energy.

Quote of the day  (posted 04/06/05)
"The high oil prices of recent months had slowed demand growth, albeit modestly."
US Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan said Tuesday referring to the spike in oil prices.
See more industry/OPEC viewpoints. http://www.platts.com/Oil/Resources/Quote of the Day/

European exports set to fill US gasoline gap, shortage seen in Q3  (posted 04/06/05)

European gasoline prices fell Wednesday to $34/mt below Monday's all-time high of $576/mt and near the level for the economics to be in place for European exports to fill the gaps in US gasoline stocks for months ahead, market sources said.

Pirates attempt to board Japanese oil tanker in Singapore Strait  (posted 04/06/05)

the tanker could have posed an environmental disaster if the pirates had succeeded in boarding the ship. "Anything could have happened. Singapore of course will take this attack seriously

Italy will be obliged to use nuclear power  (posted 04/06/05)

Italy ruled against nuclear power in a referendum in 1987, in what was seen largely as a public backlash against the 1986 accident at the Chernobyl nuclear plant in Ukraine.

EEI asks US FERC to shield location of power plants  (posted 04/06/05)

In comments Tuesday, EEI, which represents US investor-owned electric utilities, said FERC should reconsider its decision not to protect as critical energy infrastructure information the location of facilities.

Senators set to introduce bill that would lower US gas costs  (posted 04/06/05)

plan to introduce a bill they say will take "bold and aggressive steps" to lower the cost of natural gas in the US.

Legislation would resolve long-running Navajo-Arch Coal dispute  (posted 04/06/05)

The bill (S. 692) would settle a conflict created by a 1976 law that resulted in land on which Arch held coal leases being transferred to the tribe without compensation to Arch.

Study outlines ecosystem crisis  (posted 04/06/05)

A new report released this week has warned that around 60% of the world’s ‘ecosystem services’, which include fresh water, fisheries and air regulation, are being degraded or used unsustainably – and the situation could significantly worsen in the coming decades.

Greening the food industry  (posted 04/06/05)

"Sustainability is about a better quality of life for everyone, and the food and drink industry has a major role to play in this given its huge economic, environmental and social importance.

Hydrogen's Fan Club Remains Small  (posted 04/06/05)

The estimated 1,000 people who attended the National Hydrogen Association's 16th annual conference in Washington, D.C., last week emerged with a wealth of technical data about hydrogen production, storage and use as fuel.

Fluor Chosen to Complete New Mexico Power Plant  (posted 04/06/05)

Tucson Electric Power Company, Phelps Dodge Energy Services, LLC, and a development subsidiary of PNM Resources (NYSE: PNM) have chosen Fluor to finish work at the 570-megawatt, combined cycle power plant

AES Appoints Vice President, Wind Generation; AES Strengthens Commitment to Wind Energy  (posted 04/06/05)

While his primary focus will be on the high growth wind energy sector, Ned will also be responsible for the company's other renewable energy initiatives."

Workers describe sabotage  (posted 04/06/05)

Pipe fitters on the Yucca Mountain nuclear waste project were told by a foreman two years ago to sabotage the tunnel's main water line and make a special pipe to bypass a meter that measures how much of the state's water is used.

Energy bill would strengthen federal role in natural gas plant siting  (posted 04/06/05)

Regulators would get clearer authority to override state and local opposition in approving import terminals for liquefied natural gas under new energy legislation drafted by House Republicans.

California ISO Board Chair and CEO Offer Support to "Frontier Line" Proposal  (posted 04/06/05)

"The Frontier Line will link the growing demand for electricity in California, Nevada and Utah with new sources of power generation in Wyoming

Crude oil tops $58 a barrel Instability blamed for increase  (posted 04/06/05)

Oil prices briefly climbed to record territory above $58 a barrel Monday, as concerns about growing demand and potential supply disruptions once again overshadowed improving crude inventories.

Canada and Auto Industry Sign Emissions Deal  (posted 04/06/05)

Canada's auto industry has entered into a voluntary agreement with the federal government to cut greenhouse gas emissions in new vehicles, in an effort to help Canada meet its targets under the Kyoto protocol.

House Panel Revives US Energy Bill  (posted 04/06/05)

A US House committee on Tuesday dusted off an energy bill that backers say will boost US oil and natural gas production but critics deride as a bonanza for oil companies with no immediate relief for consumer pocketbooks.

G7 to Seek Development of Alternative Energy - Kyodo  (posted 04/06/05)

The Group of Seven economies will call for the development of alternative energy sources in the face of record high crude oil prices when they meet next week in Washington

US DOE Plans $380 Million Fuel Cell Program  (posted 04/06/05)

"If our research program is successful, it is not unreasonable to think that we could be approaching commercialization and mass marketing of these kinds of vehicles in maybe 15 years," stated US Energy Secretary Samuel Bodman.

QUANTUM in Technology Talks with Japanese Carmakers  (posted 04/06/05)

has reportedly been negotiating with Japanese carmakers about the transfer of its hydrogen tank technology

The Next Tsunami  (posted 04/06/05)

With the South Asia coastline in ruins, there is an opportunity to drive the reconstruction process through an enterprise-based model organized around a vision of sustainable development.

Will Renewable Energy Use Catch-up to Energy Demands?  (posted 04/06/05)

Are we moving forward to a global influence - standing still - or still not catching up in your opinion?

Actually, global use of renewable energy is on track with becoming the dominant global energy source.

Wyoming Effort Promotes Solar-Water Pumping  (posted 04/06/05)

With the northwest facing a drought, solar-water pumping applications are proving their worth in the region.

Royal Society Criticizes US on Climate Change  (posted 04/06/05)

"The Bush administration appears to be out on a limb on climate change and in disagreement with its own scientific advisers."

- Lord May of Oxford, the President of the Royal Society.

Colorado Finalizes Fuel Cell Research Center Plans  (posted 04/06/05)

While fuel cell technology is proven, considerable research and development remains to be tackled before it's adopted at a wider, mainstream level throughout the U.S.

What is a Vanadium Redox Battery?  (posted 04/05/05)

“In simple terms, it’s a very big battery…with the capacity to store and deliver power on a commercial scale for electricity networks. It’s environmentally friendly...rechargeable and produces no emissions.”

Pakistan Sees Major Oil and Gas Shortage by 2010  (posted 04/05/05)

Pakistan will face a major shortage of oil and gas, source of 80 percent of its energy needs, by 2010 unless its steps up exploration activity, a senior government official said on Monday.

Philippines launches time-of-use electricity pricing scheme for private sector  (posted 04/05/05)

The government is now encouraging private companies to do their part by shifting some of their working hours to evenings.

RECHARGING A PIECE OF ENERGY HISTORY  (posted 04/05/05)

In the late 1800’s Thomas Edison waged a public relations war in an attempt to establish the superiority of Direct Current over Alternating Current.  Soundly defeating his former colleague Nikola Telsa,

Second 500,000 b/d hike will take OPEC to 90-95% capacity:Purnomo  (posted 04/05/05)

A second 500,000 b/d ceiling hike currently being discussed by OPEC ministers will take the cartel's output to 30-mil b/d, around 90-95% of its available capacity

The Strategic Realities Ahead for the Electric Power Industry  (posted 04/05/05)

The beginning of 2005 saw the electric power industry firmly on the road to recovery with the S&P Utilities Index up almost 18 percent--more than twice the S&P 500.

West Virginia Wind Farms Need Closer Look, Mollohan Says  (posted 04/05/05)

believes state officials should take a closer look at the impact windmill farms will have on areas in West Virginia that are major tourist attractions.

Western US States Plan Major Power System  (posted 04/05/05)

California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and the governors of Nevada, Utah and Wyoming have agreed to build an estimated $20 billion electricity transmission system to meet rising demand for power, Wyoming's governor said Monday.

GM and US Army Intro Fuel-Cell-Powered Military Vehicle  (posted 04/05/05)

The US Army, in partnership with General Motors Corp. (GM, Detroit, MI) introduced the military's first-ever fuel-cell-powered vehicle.

Existing and Proposed Renewable Energy by State  (posted 04/05/05)

A map snapshot of the U.S.

Evergreen to Pay $25 Million for Concealing Pollution  (posted 04/05/05)

Container shipper Evergreen International S.A. was ordered to pay a $25 million fine after pleading guilty to charges of concealing oil pollution

Energy committee leader pushes leniency for meeting ozone deadlines  (posted 04/05/05)

U.S. Rep. Joe Barton, R-Texas, wants to include a provision in upcoming energy legislation allowing smoggy regions of the country to miss deadlines mandating compliance with federal ozone standards.

COLD AIR IN RETREAT  (posted 04/05/05)

Further out conditions appear more promising for summer warmth and an active hurricane season.

Coal Goes Cofiring, Mercury Air Emissions Reduced up to 90 Percent  (posted 04/05/05)

Over 51% of American electric power is generated from coal. The value of the industry is estimated in trillions of dollars. The central topic at the coal conference scheduled this month in Tampa, (Fl.) is cofiring.

CO2 may be oxygen for North Sea last hurrah  (posted 04/05/05)

A YEAR after the Energy Bill supposedly set the UK's energy policy for the next 50 years, the government has gone back to the drawing board.

BREAKTHROUGH FOR A MAJOR CHANGE  (posted 04/05/05)

If automakers hadn't been so shortsighted and abandoned their battery electric vehicle programs, zero-emission, fossil fuel free cars and trucks that recharged in a minute would be available within a year or so.

Biomass Energy Market Red Hot  (posted 04/05/05)

Three years ago, the fires were going out at Maine's multi- million dollar biomass energy industry.

Malaysia Secures Soft Japan Loan For Water Project  (posted 04/05/05)

The 3.8 billion ringgit ($1 billion) project is badly needed to ensure adequate water supplies for the fast-growing capital, Kuala Lumpur, and surrounding areas of the heavily populated state of Selangor.

Mississippi Energy Companies Discuss Nuclear Plans  (posted 04/05/05)

Even though Entergy Nuclear CEO Gary Taylor said there were no immediate plans to build a new nuclear unit at the Grand Gulf Nuclear Station in Port Gibson, the company filed an application with the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for an early site permit

World's Biggest Iceberg Begins Moving  (posted 04/04/05)

The world's biggest iceberg has begun moving again, nearly three months after it ran aground

USDA Highlights 2004 Performance and Benefits of Conservation Programs  (posted 04/04/05)

Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns

today announced major conservation achievements in 2004 resulting

from USDA voluntary conservation programs for private lands in

Quote of the day  (posted 04/04/05)

Quote of the day
"Although the oil price hike is lower in real terms than during previous shocks and most industrialized oil-importing economies have reduced their dependence on oil, last year's sharp rise dented world growth."

"The Saudi capacity at 9.5-mil b/d is extremely close to breaking point," one analyst said.

Oil prices hit record highs on concerns over US gasoline supply  (posted 04/04/05)

Oil prices galloped to a new high in London as traders fretted about the availability of gasoline in the US, just months ahead of the summer driving season, when tens of millions of drivers in the world's largest economy embark on car journeys over long distances to take vacations.

EDF say water law could cost $467-mil/yr  (posted 04/04/05)

On Apr 5 the proposed law is to be debated by the French Senate. In the newspaper, EDF said the law, aimed at improving the quality of French waterways by 2015

Leaking Pipeline Causes Oil Spill in Alaska  (posted 04/04/05)

About 80 workers are battling to clean up the oily water that covers about two acres in what ranks as one of the largest industrial spills ever seen in the oilfields of northern Alaska's North Slope region.

Officials Confirm China to Invest US $157B in Environment Over Next Five Years  (posted 04/04/05)

China's investment in environmental protection is expected to reach 1,300 billion yuan during the 2006-2010 plan period in line with the country's rapid economic growth

Judge Rules Against EPA on Dumping Ships' Ballast Water  (posted 04/04/05)

a suit brought by environmental groups concerned about the extraordinary economic and ecological consequences of invasive species arriving in U.S. waters through the unregulated ballast water.

Connecticut Gets New Choices For Wind, Hydro, Other Renewable Electricity  (posted 04/04/05)

Starting today, customers of Connecticut Light & Power can get new electricity options at a variety of prices and from a variety of sources.

Windmill Power Bill Generates Debate  (posted 04/04/05)

Nevada Power Co. is supporting a bill that would encourage homeowners and rural residents to install wind turbines on sites of one acre or more.

APS Issues Draft RFP for Renewable Resources  (posted 04/04/05)

Proposals will be considered for the following types of renewable energy resources: solar, wind, biomass/biogas, small hydro (under 10 megawatts), hydrogen (other than from natural gas) and geothermal.

Renewable Energy Shines Brighter As Utility Bills Soar University Researchers Across Georgia Look at Alternative Energy Technology  (posted 04/04/05)

University researchers across the state, however, are looking into new technologies to make renewable energy less costly and more powerful.

Newcomers Want More 'Green' in Next US Farm Law  (posted 04/04/05)

While Congress wrangles over paring US agricultural programs this year by a few billion dollars, an amalgam of environmental groups, small-farm advocates, deficit hawks and anti-hunger activists is focused on the big prize -- a wholesale remodeling of farm subsidies.

Storms Mean Good Year For California Hydropower  (posted 04/04/05)

California will have more hydropower than usual this year as the storms which normally feed the Pacific Northwest's massive dams took a more southerly route

Ford Delivers 5 Fuel Cell Cars For Canada Tests  (posted 04/04/05)

Ford plans to place 25 more Ford Focus Fuel Cell Vehicles in fleets in the United States and Germany by the end of the year, the company said.

MTBE Lawsuit Costs Dominate Energy Bill Debate  (posted 04/04/05)

Big US oil companies are lobbying hard to win protection from billions of dollars in liability lawsuits for a water-soiling gasoline additive

Offshore LNG Terminals Worry US Gulf Anglers  (posted 04/04/05)

"They're going to be pumping anywhere from 100 million to 150 million gallons of water per day, and over the course of a year you're talking about billions of gallons of water that's essentially being sterilized,

The Vanadium Battery  (posted 04/04/05)

Many of us are feeling that this generation has passed on a heavy burden to our kids especially regarding the ever increasing energy needs of society. It's not all doom and gloom however, the Vanadium Battery might just return a little spring to your step and a bigger smile on your face when you next see your grand kids.

Fuel-Efficiency Attitudes May be Shifting  (posted 04/04/05)

Gasoline prices have some local motorists thinking twice about what they drive.

Jumpstart Ford Activists “Adopt A Dealer” On Fossil Fools Day  (posted 04/04/05)

Consumer activists are highlighting Ford’s bottom-of-the-barrel EPA fuel efficiency ranking and off-the-chart greenhouse gas emissions.

Activist faults NRC's report on Millstone  (posted 04/01/05)

The head of the Connecticut Coalition Against Millstone has accused the Nuclear Regulatory Commission of failing to properly regulate the operators of the plant's two nuclear reactors

Arab electricity ministers to meet in April  (posted 04/01/05)

The Arab electricity ministers council is to hold its 6th session on 13 April at the Arab League (AL) HQ in Cairo under the chairmanship of Sudan to discuss the completion of an Arab power grid.

Captain of Alaska Oil Spill Ship Pleads Guilty  (posted 04/01/05)

The captain of a cargo ship that broke apart in December and created Alaska's worst oil spill since the 1989 Exxon Valdez disaster pleaded guilty on Wednesday of lying to federal investigators.

Dandruff, Fur, Pollen Affect Atmosphere - Study  (posted 04/01/05)

Bits of pollen, leaf fragments and even dandruff from people and animals make up a significant portion of dusty stuff in the atmosphere but have been ignored by climate modelers

EC surveys national, EU market barriers to developing renewables  (posted 04/01/05)

The EC is inviting all interested parties to comment on national policy
instruments such as investment support, feed-in tariffs, obligations with
green certificates, fiscal incentives and tender schemes, and rank their
importance.

Energy market heats up for private power plant projects  (posted 04/01/05)

Pacific Gas & Electric Co. will need 2,200 megawatts of new electricity production in Northern California by 2010 to meet growing demand and compensate for the expected closure of obsolete power plants

European gasoline prices hit record $548/mt, exports to US rise  (posted 04/01/05)

Gasoline prices have now consolidated above the $500/mt mark for a whole trading week for the first time.

Four companies will be getting low-cost power  (posted 04/01/05)

Four area companies have pledged to create a total of 64 jobs in return for low-cost power allocations, the New York Power Authority said Tuesday.

Hydrogen Industry Convenes at National Conference  (posted 04/01/05)

Hydrogen took center stage in Washington this week as the Secretary of Energy, industry and policy leaders from around the world, and more hydrogen- powered vehicles than have ever been assembled at a public event all converged at the opening of the NHA Annual Hydrogen Conference and Hydrogen Expo USA.

Iran Takes Journalists Inside Key Nuclear Plant  (posted 04/01/05)

Iran on Wednesday took a group of journalists deep underground into the heart of a nuclear plant that Washington and the European Union want permanently closed

Kuwait Oil Company Beijing Office opens  (posted 04/01/05)

Kuwait wants a long-term, mutually beneficial cooperation with China in the energy sector.

Lack of snow in the US hits ScotPower's PacifiCorp  (posted 04/01/05)

snow levels - essential for powering PacifiCorp's hydro plant - are less than 40 per cent of normal, thus reducing the availability of PacifiCorp's hydro generation for the next six months.

LNG developers 'reassessing' options after voters reject gas terminal  (posted 04/01/05)

The vote produced the biggest turnout ever for Perry residents

Michigan Adopts State-wide Net-Metering  (posted 04/01/05)

"Every kilowatt of electricity generated by renewable energy is a kilowatt that does not produce harmful emissions."

- Michigan Public Service Commission Chairman J. Peter Lark

Missing Radioactive Capsules Cause Venezuela Alert  (posted 04/01/05)

Venezuelan authorities have launched a nationwide hunt for two capsules of radioactive material that went missing this month and which could kill people exposed to them

National Security Experts Call for Renewables Deployment  (posted 04/01/05)

"Hardly a bunch of old hippies and tree huggers, the fact of their letter confirms what the sustainable energy advocates have been saying all along -- that the Bush Administration's disregard for developing clean domestic energy alternatives places the nation squarely in harm's way."

Nuclear energy safer than previously thought  (posted 04/01/05)

"The benefits of nuclear energy are real, while the risks are mostly hypothetical."

Nuclear fuel safety study deal reached  (posted 04/01/05)

controversy has simmered over whether the study's findings indicate enough risk for plant spent fuel pools that NRC should require utilities to expand dry cask spent fuel storage.

Oil Super-Spike Could Sink Stocks, Economy - Analysts  (posted 04/01/05)

If oil were to hit $105 per barrel, as suggested by a leading broker, it would spread ruin through the stock market and could spell disaster for everything from airlines to retailers to mining companies

Piedmont Natural Gas wants to buy money-losing pipeline  (posted 04/01/05)

customers may wind up covering the project's likely multimillion-dollar annual losses.

SANYO Develops 21.6 Percent Efficient HIT Solar Cell  (posted 04/01/05)

Heterojunction with Intrinsic Thin layer solar cell that has the highest power generation efficiency among practical size cells available (at the research level).

Schwarzenegger on "Extreme Makeover" to Promote Solar Use  (posted 04/01/05)

California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger made a cameo appearance on the ABC television show "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" last Sunday as a way to draw more attention to the use of solar energy in homes and businesses

Sen. Dorgan Introduces Biofuels Legislation  (posted 04/01/05)

"We simply must get serious about developing new, alternative sources of energy here at home and this is what my legislation would do."

- U.S. Sen. Byron Dorgan

Sen. Talent Introduces Renewable Fuels Package  (posted 04/01/05)

"Renewable fuels are at the crux of economic growth and jobs; at the crux of energy security; at the crux of consumer benefits; at the crux of environmental quality; and at the crux of value-added agriculture for America's producers."

- Sen. Talent

UK may miss Kyoto CO2 target  (posted 04/01/05)

Britain's carbon dioxide emissions rose by 1.5 percent last year mainly because of an increase in pollution from industry and the transport sector, the government has said.

Wave Energy Potential Warrants Further Research  (posted 04/01/05)

A new report from the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) suggests that generation of electricity from wave energy may be economically feasible in the near future.

Wintry Canada to Use Solar Power to Heat Homes  (posted 04/01/05)

will be the first of its kind in North America. Officials say it will cut greenhouse gas emissions by 260 tonnes a year and supply the homes with more than 90 percent of the heat they need.

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