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August 31, 2005
AEP's Cook Nuclear Plant Operating Licenses Extended 20 Years by NRC
The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) today approved the renewal of operating licenses for the two generating units at American Electric Power's Cook Nuclear Plant in Bridgman, Mich.
Are Water Wars a Fantasy, or a Future Reality?
The Middle East, one of the world's perennial war zones, has traditionally been blessed with a surfeit of oil and cursed by a scarcity of water. The longstanding speculation among some political experts is that the world's future wars will be fought over water, not oil. I am saying very clearly that if India continues to go in this route, yes there will be water wars and there will be water conflicts. And we will be more and more crippled in our growth," she warned.
China Attracting Foreign Investors
China could become a hotbed for foreign enterprises seeking to expand their investments in power assets. The country is seeking billions in private investment and has just said it would order an $8 billion nuclear reactor, all to help an economy that grew at nearly a 10 percent rate last year.
North Dakota's lignite industry is joining with a Canadian group that wants to build a power plant that produces virtually no emissions. In five to seven years, the Canadian Clean Power Coalition, made up of 10 energy producers and researchers, aims to build such a coal-fired demonstration power plant in Canada.
Utilities are feeling the strain of a train derailment in the West that occurred after heavy weather in late winter and early spring. Coal inventories at many power plants were already at low levels because the high price of natural gas had coal-fired power plants running at full capacity. According to company reports, on Saturday, May 14, 2005, a BNSF train derailed 15 cars approximately 6 miles north of Bill, Wyoming, on the SPRBL. The next morning a Union Pacific coal train derailed 28 cars approximately 19 miles north of Bill, Wyoming, on the Joint Line. The two derailments are suspected to have been caused by severe weather and coal dust that had settled under the tracks.
Con Edison Dispatches 31 Workers To The South.htm
Con Edison is sending twelve trucks and at least thirty utility workers to Birmingham, Alabama to help people in the South get their power back.
Daihatsu Taps Toyota Technology to Sell Its Hybrid Vehicle
Daihatsu Motor Co. (Osaka, Japan) announced that it will sell its gasoline-electric commercial vehicles starting on September 26, 2005. Daihatsu aims to sell 300 of the hybrid models a year.
Entergy outages top 1-mil from Katrina, Southern at 886,000
The company knows of 107 transmission lines down and 126 transmission substations out of service. It plans to begin helicopter flyovers this morning to start assessing infrastructure damage.
ExxonMobil says extent of damage to Louisiana gas plant unknown
Onshore gas treating facilities along Mobile Bay in Alabama suffered no visible damage, she said, adding damage assessments of the major's offshore structures in the Gulf of Mexico were underway.
Floodwater Inundates New Orleans after Hurricane
Floodwaters engulfed much of New Orleans on Tuesday as officials feared a steep death toll and planned to evacuate thousands remaining in shelters after the historic city's defenses were breached by Hurricane Katrina. "We probably have 80 percent of our city under water; with some sections of our city the water is as deep as 20 feet (7 metres). Both airports are underwater,
Halliburton Whistleblower Demoted
Whistleblowers -- those who go public with allegations of
waste, fraud and abuse -- continue to have a tough time, despite a law
protecting them and repeated assurances from the White House, many government
agencies and Congress that they maintain a policy of zero tolerance for
retaliation.
High oil prices not in OPEC's long-term interest: Khelil
Idaho Gives Lukewarm OK on Plutonium Plan
The state of Idaho is supporting a U.S. Department of Energy proposal to start producing plutonium-238 for NASA and national security agencies at the federal nuclear research compound in eastern Idaho. But in comments submitted Monday to the Energy Department, the state called on the Bush administration to spell out a plan to transfer the highly radioactive waste created at the Idaho National Laboratory to disposal sites out of state.
Ingram assessing condition of 100 barges below New Orleans
Jellyfish Cause Shutdown of Swedish Nuclear Reactor
A Swedish nuclear power plant shut down one of its three reactors Monday because of an abnormal accumulation of jellyfish in the cooling system. The Oskarshamn plant in southeastern Sweden uses water from the Baltic Sea in its cooling tanks.
Katrina Prompts Reissue of Safe Hurricane Clean Up Tips
With Hurricane Katrina making landfall again, OSHA is reissuing an alert on the dangers associated with cleanup and recovery from hurricanes.
Cleanup work of any kind is hazardous, but flood conditions make it even more so.
Katrina's longer-term legacy could be energy glut: analyst
Madigan says EPA goes easy on coal plants
As Chicago gasps through another summer of dirty air, the state's top attorney is accusing environmental regulators of looking the other way while the region's coal-fired power plants repeatedly fill the air with soot. The EPA is supposed to use the information to gauge whether coal plants are releasing too much pollution that can trigger asthma attacks and cause lung disease, heart problems and premature deaths.
Madigan: IEPA ignoring coal-burning violations
The Illinois state attorney general is accusing Illinois environmental regulators of ignoring repeated pollution violations by coal-burning power plants. Attorney General Lisa Madigan's office objected to the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency this month over what it called its skirting of a "clear, absolute and non-discretionary requirement of federal law." In a letter, it documented more than 7,600 pollution violations since 1999 at six plants owned by Midwest Generation.
Ohio EPA investigating Murray sludge spill
Oil Firms Rush to Assess Hurricane Damage in Gulf
With oil prices rapidly rising to unprecedented territory, the industry hoped to get operations up and running as quickly as possible. The natural disaster shut 95 percent of US oil and natural gas production in the Gulf.Ozone Layer has Stopped Shrinking, US Study Finds
The ozone layer has stopped shrinking but it will take decades to start recovering, US scientists reported on Tuesday. An analysis of satellite records and surface monitoring instruments shows the ozone layer has grown a bit thicker in some parts of the world, but is still well below normal levels.
Powerco Tries Gas-Fired Home Generator
AUSTRALIAN-OWNED electricity and gas lines company Powerco is soon to begin a trial of a gas-fired domestic heat and power generator that could allow households to disconnect from the electricity system. It runs on natural gas and is more efficient -- producing more electricity from a quantity of gas -- than a power station.
Railroads, ports close due to Katrina, but rivers could rise
CSX and Norfolk Southern railroads suspended service to the affected area on Sunday, shutting down coal shipments to utilities in the area and to export ports. The railroad was still not servicing the affected areas and the embargo remained in place Monday afternoon. She said truck and rail shipments out of the port could resume fairly quickly once electricity is restored, but it could take days to reopen the channel to shipments depending on how much dredging the Coast Guard must do to repair shoaling. BARGE SHIPPING COULD BENEFIT FROM RAIN.
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 083105
Solar activity was at low levels. The geomagnetic field was at predominantly quiet levels. The geomagnetic field is expected to be at quiet to unsettled levels on 31 August. Active to minor storming condition may be possible on 01 and 02 September due to coronal hole effects.
Small Wind Market Ignored by Corporations and Consumers Alike
"There hasn't been a federal tax credit for small wind turbines since 1985."
Small home-sized wind turbines have not received the financial investment afforded large-scale horizontal axis wind turbines or solar photovoltaics (PV). That's one reason small wind turbines haven't caught on with most consumers.
Sri Lanka Says China to Build Major Coal Power Plant
China's National Machinery Equipment Import and Export Corporation has signed a deal with Sri Lanka to build a 900-megawatt coal power station on the Indian Ocean island, the government said on Tuesday.
Study Addresses Ethanol's Efficiency
"As ethanol production and use continues to expand from coast to coast, increased public discussion and media attention have often turned to a debate over ethanol's fuel efficiency," said Ron Lamberty, American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) VP. "The bottom line is that, in addition to offering higher performance and lower emissions, ethanol-blended fuel is easier on the pocketbooks of American motorists."
US DOE says flooding complicating storm damage assessment efforts
detection of damaged transmission lines and pipelines
US States Fight EPA on Greenhouse Gases
"This case deals with one of the most serious environmental threats of our time," Reilly said in a statement. "Surely it warrants a decision by the full court." The group, which includes the attorneys general of Maine, New Mexico, Oregon, Rhode Island and the District of Columbia, said the EPA could not refuse to regulate greenhouse gases "simply because it opposes such regulation on policy grounds."
Though it's just a few minutes from Seattle, Vashon Island has always remained a community apart, rural and artsy. Now an environmental-research group is proposing that the island further separate itself by producing all its own energy.
The market has moved higher on expectations that the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina in the US Gulf of Mexico will be extensive.
August 30, 2005
Analysts await damage details on Katrina
The powerful hurricane roiled the industry at a time when producers worldwide were already struggling to keep up with strong demand and it threatened to constrain the supply of home heating fuels this winter. The rise in energy prices has already slowed the U.S. economy's growth rate, though domestic fuel consumption is still rising.
ARIZONA Regulators Approve Higher Renewables Standard
In 2001, Arizona approved a plan that required that state’s utilities to procure at least 1.1% of electricity from renewable sources by 2007, with at least 20% to come from solar. Arizona utilities have not been held to the standard because they claimed that the authorized rate hikes were not sufficient to pay for the new sources.
According to the ACC’s new plan, the state’s utilities must procure 15% of the state’s electricity from renewable resources by 2025 and submit to an annual review. The solar requirement was dropped, but a new requirement for local distributed generation was added.
BP, Total start detailed inspections of Katrina-related damage
We will expect to board all of our platforms over the coming days to carry detailed inspections of the facilities to look at any damage at all and we will also be inspecting the pipelines we operate," the spokesman said.
Downstream Low-Grade Energy From the Natural Gas Industry
North America's natural gas industry is a dominant player that provides clean energy to operate power stations, heat homes and buildings, as well as fuel a range of transportation vehicles. Its supply and distribution network covers most of the densely populated regions of Canada and the USA.
EMCs Send Line Crews to Help in Aftermath of Hurricane Katrina
Personnel from electric membership corporations (EMCs) across Georgia are headed to Alabama, Louisiana and Mississippi to help electric co-ops restore power to areas hardest hit following Hurricane Katrina.
Five Facts about Atlantic Hurricane Season
Powerful Hurricane Katrina roared toward the Louisiana coast on Monday with 145 mile per hour (233 kph) winds and a massive storm surge that threatened to swamp the historic city of New Orleans.
Geothermal Resources Largely Untapped, Data Show
The Geothermal Energy Association (GEA) is releasing data showing the untapped geothermal power potential in the West. The data, extracted from publicly available reports and studies, show almost 100 undeveloped geothermal power sites. These sites have a total production potential approaching 25,000MW of electrical generating capacity -- enough to meet more than 70 percent of California's electricity needs.
Katrina may Cost Insurers Record $26 Billion
Hurricane Katrina may be the most expensive hurricane ever to hit the United States, costing insurers up to $26 billion, storm modelers said on Monday.
Katrina Slams US Gulf Coast, Oil Rigs Adrift
Hurricane Katrina ripped into the US Gulf Coast on Monday, stranding people on rooftops as it pummeled the historic jazz city New Orleans with 100 mph (160 kph) winds and swamped Mississippi resort towns and lowlands with a crushing surge of seawater.
Louisiana's Lake Borgne structures may have been hit by Katrina
NRC must OK restart of Waterford-3 after Hurricane Katrina
Oil Leaps Past $70 Then Recoils as Storm Hits
Oil prices surged briefly to a record above $70 a barrel on Monday as one of the biggest hurricanes in US history disrupted oil and gas production in the Gulf of Mexico, home to a quarter of total domestic oil and gas production.
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 083005
Solar activity decreased to low levels. The geomagnetic field was at predominantly quiet to unsettled levels. The geomagnetic field is expected to be at quiet to unsettled levels on 30-31 August. Active conditions are possible on 01 September due to the onset of a coronal hole.
Some Deadly Hurricanes to Hit Southern US
Hurricane Katrina roared toward the Louisiana and Mississippi coasts on Monday with 135 mile per hour (216 kph) winds and a massive storm surge that threatened to swamp the low-lying historic city of New Orleans.
South Dakota uranium mine cleanup costs tagged at $22M
Tomorrow is not soon enough for a massive cleanup of old, cancer-causing uranium mines south of Bowman.
But Randy Feist, who lives near open uranium pits where signs warn that more than one day exceeds recommended exposure, said he'd like the process to go faster than the half-life of some of the toxins breaking down out there.
The mines have been there for 50 years and abandoned for 40.
Start-up zeros in on hydrogen fuel cells
Michael Lefenfeld and James Dye of Signa Chemistry wanted to make
rooms smell better. Instead, they stumbled on a way that could make
hydrogen fuel cells a practical reality. The key is sodium, the ornery alkali metal that bursts into sparks
when dunked in water.
Status of LOOP unclear in aftermath of Hurricane Katrina
Texas Rep. Burnam challenges state panel on power plants
State Rep. Lon Burnam wants environmental regulators to prove to him that building six power plants upwind of Dallas/Fort Worth wouldn't hurt local efforts to clean the air.
Unsecured Asian Radioactive Waste Risks Dirty Bomb
Australian nuclear experts raised concerns on Monday that unsecured sources of radioactive waste in medical centres in Southeast Asia could be used by militants to build a "dirty bomb".
US court allows EPA air pollution case against Cinergy to proceed
US renewable energy grew less than 1% in 2004: EIA
US Set for Brutal Winter, Farmers' Almanac says
Frost in Florida for Christmas, heavy rain in Texas and blizzards belting the Northeast and blanketing New York in deep snow are among the volatile winter weather patterns predicted in the latest Farmers' Almanac.
Work begins to ship uranium-contaminated soil to U.S. for disposal
A governmental nuclear research and development institute began
work Monday to ship soil contaminated with uranium from Yurihama,
Tottori Prefecture, to the United States for disposal.
August 29, 2005
Aging power plants add to woes
INDONESIA, which suffered one of the world's worst power failures last week with 100 million people affected, is expected to face more blackouts as the country's aging power plants lag soaring demand.
Analysts See Katrina as `Perfect Storm' for Already High Energy Prices
With crude oil prices already near record levels, Hurricane Katrina targeted the heart of America's oil and refinery operations Sunday, shutting down an estimated 1 million barrels of refining capacity and sharply curbing offshore production in the region.
Bittersweet Victory for Million Solar Roofs Bill
While this vote officially clears the solar bill to move on for a full vote in the California's Assembly sometime before September 9, it includes some union provisions that have splintered its support and could ultimately doom the bill.
Bruce Babbitt Calls for More Dams To Cope with Global Warming's Effects
California should build more dams and reconsider building a highly controversial peripheral canal, a key architect of the state's decade-old Delta water plan said Thursday. "It is no longer a theory," Babbitt said in testimony to the Little Hoover Commission watchdog agency in Sacramento. "It is no longer a probability. The effects of global warming are upon us. And rising sea levels will push saltwater further into the Delta, fouling drinking water for 23 million Californians who get at least some of their water from pumps in the south Delta.
California Tomato Farmers Dabble in Sustainable Agriculture
California's Central Valley growers want to make the humble tomato, the main ingredient of ketchup, pizza and spaghetti sauce, into a dominant new player in a growing movement to curb the use of pesticides and fertilizers on U.S. farms.
Pennsylvania's total mercury emissions are the second highest in the United States, behind Texas. Controlling those emissions is the goal of University of Pittsburgh research under a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to study the reactions of mercury and associated trace metals in coal-fired power plants.
Officials at Shell Hydrogen say 50 million tons of hydrogen are produced globally every year. This hydrogen pump at a publicly accessible Shell station, the country's first, shows how stations can be upgraded. The process by which you use the hydrogen is normally much more efficient than the combustion process with fossil fuels. With hydrogen, that process can be two to three times more efficient. Hydrogen is a long-term proposition. It's a marathon, not a sprint, but already industry is well beyond the starting line.
CO2 Reduction Efforts Save BP $650 Million
Cutting greenhouse gas emissions, which some US politicians have warned could hurt industrial competitiveness, has been good business for BP Plc. and will save the oil major about $650 million.
Cosmo Oil to Develop Home-Use LPG Fuel Cells
Cosmo Oil Co. (Tokyo, Japan) announced that it will enter the market for home-use fuel cells. By the end of the year, the company will introduce a fuel cell that obtains hydrogen from liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). With the market for gasoline and other petroleum products having reached a ceiling, the company aims to develop operations in fuel cells as a new source of profit.
Deadly Tsunami Reached Around the Globe
Last year's Sumatra tsunami focused its death and destruction on the lands around the Indian Ocean, but the great wave traveled around the world and was recorded as far away as Peru and northeastern Canada. The wave traveled several times around the globe before it finally dissipated.
Ecuador Protesters Sign Settlement with Oil Firms
Ecuador protesters, whose attacks shut down oil exports vital to the country's economy, struck a deal with energy companies on Thursday in which the firms agreed to invest more in the poor communities where they operate.
A federal judge Friday ordered the Bush administration to step up efforts to restore the gray wolf to four northeastern states, a ruling environmentalists called a major victory.
EPA OKs Piedmont Triad plan to lower air pollution
Local industries and road projects wont face stringent new regulations after the federal government ruled that the Piedmont Triad has a strong plan in place for reducing air pollution.
The ruling, issued by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, gives the Piedmont Triad until December 2007 to reduce a specific kind of air pollution -- ground-level ozone
Experts doubt energy law will usher in coal gasification plants
Fire and Water Sweep Through Europe in Summer of Extreme Weather
Fire and floods have engulfed Europe this summer, as a
relentless drought in Spain and Portugal transformed swaths of woodland into a
massive tinderbox and torrential rains carved a trail of destruction through
alpine valleys and Balkan villages (and) has people asking: Why?
Salvano Briceno, the head of the U.N.'s International Strategy for
Disaster Reduction, warned that Europe should expect more severe rains because
of global warming
I became a conservative when my grandfather
had me straighten nails and hammer-harden and sharpen steel tools. He taught
me how a conservative appreciates and protects Nature’s wonders, makes
birdhouses out of scrap lumber, and prevents soil erosion by building
waterways out of river rocks and straw bales. My grandfather was a Flint
Hills rancher and often repeated the pioneer’s motto “Make do, do
without, or fix it.”
From Landfills To Sludge Fields, Tour Showcases Garbage
The "Down in the Dumps" tour costs $7 and includes some of the worst sights and smells of the city's far South Side.
The tour lasts three hours and takes people to more than a dozen sites.
Highlights include a waste-water treatment plant, a recycling center and landfills.
Generators' plan for California has AB 1890 aroma
The Coalition for California Policy Reform includes AES, Duke, NRG
Energy, Mirant, Dynegy and Reliant and later added Southern California
Edison and Pacific Gas & Electric.
The pact gives the generators long contracts in return for selling
out competition's future in the Golden State.
The deal gets utilities back in the generation business with the
hope that after 10 or 15 years, the threat of competition will have been
snuffed out.
Govt. Researcher Fuels the Ethanol Debate
A recent national debate has arisen over the net energy and environmental benefits of ethanol as a substitute for gasoline in transportation fuels. Now a top government researcher in the field is coming to defense of the domestically-grown fuel additive. - Energy balance value alone is not meaningful in evaluating the benefit of ethanol or any other energy product. For proper evaluation, a product's energy balance must be compared with that of the product it replaces.
Harnessing hydrogen to fuel the future
Angel's Nest doesn't rely on fossil fuels. Instead, it recycles solar and wind power.
"We're the only building in the world that will produce our own energy with free-range hydrogen," Plarr said. "We take solar and wind power that is normally thrown away during the day, and we capture it as hydrogen."
Henry Hub natural gas terminal closed on Katrina
Home is scene of hydrogen fuel display
The long-term goal is to determine whether the fuel cells, which convert propane into hydrogen fuel that generates electricity, could be used as an alternative to erecting far-flung distribution systems of poles and wires, which cost $50,000 per mile to construct and $4,500 a year to maintain.
Hydrogen Engine Center breaks ground for new factory in Algona
Less than a year after introducing the world's first production hydrogen-fueled engine, Hydrogen Engine Center (HEC) has broken ground on a facility to increase its production capacity. HEC manufactures and modifies ultra-low-emission engines for industrial use. These engines may be fueled by hydrogen, natural gas, liquid propane, and gasoline.
Is Water as Fuel Ecologically Safe
Dear [name withheld],
The following is my opinion, and I recognize that others may
think differently.
This potential problem of running cars on water and using so
much water that it destroys the atmosphere and probably all
life of Earth has been considered for over 30 years now.
In 1970, a company I consulted for in Canada invented a simple
catalytic device to break water into hydrogen and oxygen so
that it could be burned. After a great deal of thought, we
destroyed the plans, thinking in the same way as some of you
that it would eventually use up the world's supply of water
and harm or destroy the Earth.
However, in recent times I have changed my mind, and here is
why.
Katrina Gets Stronger, New Orleans Evacuates
Hundreds of thousands of New Orleans residents fled inland on Sunday as Hurricane Katrina strengthened into one of the fiercest US storms ever seen and barreled toward the low-lying Gulf Coast city.
Law Requires Use of Biodiesel in Illinois State Vehicles
A new Illinois law will require state and local governments, school districts, universities, community colleges and mass transit agencies to fuel their diesel vehicles with 2 percent biodiesel.
The North Carolina C8 Working Group has found new evidence that ammonium perfluorooctanoate — or C8 — has further contaminated groundwater wells and a discharge channel leading to the Cape Fear River at the DuPont Co. Fayetteville Works.
Nuclear fuel business booming despite uncertainties
The nuclear fuel business going forward presents many opportunities. But those opportunities are clouded by uncertainties larger than the strict market fundamentals that have propelled the price of uranium from about $10 per pound yellowcake (U3O8) three years ago to about $30 per pound today.
The nuclear fuel business should clearly benefit from the many bullish signs indicating that nuclear power is poised to expand around the world from the 440 reactors in operation today to perhaps 470 by 2015, and more beyond that date.
NYMEX crude opens $3.04bbl higher, off record high of $70.80
OPEC president says to propose 500,000 bd increase in ceiling
Poor Africans Hit Hard by Rising World Oil Prices
Africans are struggling to cope with stubbornly high global oil prices which are forcing many to walk long distances to work or schools, go hungry as food prices skyrocket, and depend on candles to light their homes.
Portugal Arrests Scores over Forest Fires
Police in Portugal have arrested 127 people suspected of starting forest fires that have destroyed swathes of land as authorities stepped up efforts to ensure fires do not restart when temperatures rise again.
Renewable Energy Brings Water to the World
In the future, few things will be more important than ample supplies of clean water to ensure economic success, good health and political stability across the globe. Every day solar and wind energy systems are saving billions of gallons of clean water around the world and the opportunity exists to save much more water.
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 082705
Solar activity was low. two C-class flares during the past 24 hours. There is a slight chance, however, for an isolated M-class event from Region 803 during the next three days (27-29 August). The geomagnetic field ranged from quiet to active levels. The geomagnetic field is expected to be mostly unsettled for 27-28 August and is expected to be quiet to unsettled for 29 August.
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 082905
Solar activity increased to moderate levels today. the largest flare of the period, an impulsive M1/Sf event. Solar activity is expected to be at low levels. The geomagnetic field is expected to be at predominantly quiet to unsettled levels for 29-31 August.
Researchers seek fuel-cell answers
Scientists across the country are studying the clean power alternative, stoked by President Bush's commitment during his 2003 State of the Union address to provide $ 1.2 billion in federal money for fuel-cell research.
The aim is to reverse America's growing dependence on foreign oil by developing viable fuel cells that can power automobiles and homes without polluting the air. The United States imports 55 percent of the oil it consumes
Residents Return as Europe's Flood Waters Recede
Thousands of volunteers toiled alongside rescue workers on Saturday to clear walls of debris left by the downpours from Berne to Bucharest, which have caused more than $1.0 billion of damage in Switzerland alone.
Scientists Try to Harness Wave Energy
"There is tremendous potential in the oceans to supply energy for the world," Annette von Jouanne, an Oregon State electrical engineering professor told the crowd. "A 10-square-mile wave power plant could supply the entire state of Oregon."
SDG&E Seeks Bids for Innovative Energy-Efficiency Programs
The utility is seeking bids for cost-effective energy-efficiency program proposals directed to small-business and residential customers. Winning bidders will receive some of the $50 million in funding available over three years to develop and implement their programs.
Sharp plant anticipates run on solar panels
Wednesday, it got more of its due as U.S. Sen. Lamar Alexander, chairman of the Senate energy subcommittee, described the new federal tax rebate he championed that knocks up to $2,000 off the costs of installing solar power in homes and businesses. The rebate goes into effect Jan. 6.
Shedding Light On The Hydrogen Economy
A technique that uses photochemical molecular devices to produce hydrogen gas from water could be an important step on the way to seeing the widespread use of hydrogen as a power source in the future. The researchers have been striving to make the process more efficient and in the past year, they have come up with additional molecular assemblies that absorb light more efficiently and activate conversion more efficiently.
Solar Pedalflo Creates Potable Water for Remote Areas
Communities of people living in remote villages around the globe often endure scarcity of safe water for drinking and cooking, jeopardizing health and hygiene. The SolarPedal, a water supply and treatment unit, can reverse this by producing clean water from a transportable solar-powered water pump that operates continuously under varying light intensities.
Spain Aims to Double Energy from Renewable Sources
Spain approved measures on Friday aimed at nearly doubling its production of energy from renewable sources like wind, sun and water over the next five years.
Spain's Wind Power Industry on a Roll
Spain has overtaken Germany as the world's leader in the most installed wind power capacity. The Spanish wind power industry is on a roll. From just over 200 MW in 1997, the Spanish market has been steadily growing at annual rates of more than 30 percent.
Sydney Turns to Desalinated Water as Drought Drains Reservoirs
Sydney, Australia's biggest city, may get a A$2 billion ($1.5 billion) desalination plant as the nation's worst drought in 100 years empties reservoirs. To save water, the city's 4.2 million residents have been restricted to watering their gardens just two days a week and banned from hosing down their cars.
Uranium demand continues to outpace production
Since the mid-1980s uranium demand has outstripped uranium production, with the difference being made up from secondary sources of supply, such as the uranium liberated under the US-Russian high-enriched uranium (HEU) agreement, and from other inventory supplies. Established uranium companies have now--given the rise in prices--beefed up their exploration programs and many "junior" uranium companies are capitalizing on investors' renewed interest in uranium.
US CO2 Market Needs Federal Push to Blossom
US trading of heat-trapping greenhouse gas emission contracts could eclipse the European Union's $37 billion market, but only if the federal government imposes mandatory limits, experts say.
US crude futures eases after topping $70 on US Gulf hurricane
August 26, 2005
Another Blow to the Pseudo-Science of Global Warming Skeptics
In a serious blow to the already discredited arguments made against climate change by global warming skeptics, a new analysis of satellite data confirms that the earth is warming at a rate consistent with that projected by climate models, and far faster than the skeptics previously acknowledged.
China tells coal mines; Clean up or close
The decision reflects the Chinese government's determination to regulate the mining industry after 9,000 workers died in mining accidents over the past 20 months.
COMEX gold, silver trading down despite weaker dollar
"It's a general sell off," said a trader. "Gold in particular is vulnerable to a further sell off because of its huge long open interest. We're not getting further upside, so they are getting out of their longs. Gold is also seeing pressure from silver as well."
Environmentalists endorse Adirondacks power line plan
The nonprofit also urged NYPA to bury the line in areas along the route deemed scenic. The RCPA suggested NYPA consider alternative energy sources -- a proposal that would likely scrap the entire project -- and tweak the proposal to keep the line from passing over homes in Childwold in the town of Piercefield.
Ethanol Is Cheaper, Industry Study Says
A new pilot-scale study on ethanol fuel efficiency suggests
improved fuel costs for cars at 10, 20 and 30 percent of ethanol in petroleum.
Because the cost of ethanol was lower than the cost of gasoline, the cost per
mile of operation generally was lower when using ethanol blends. At the time of
the test, ethanol and unleaded was just under $1.60 at the time of the study.
Flood Fears Focus on Swiss Lakes and Romanian Toll Up
Helicopters ferried food to isolated Alpine villages on Thursday as residents and rescue workers feared swollen lakes may overflow and bring more havoc to flood-ravaged Switzerland.
Green energy policy to promote peace
Sir: Oil once again appears as a catalyst for conflict, the Sunni population of Iraq fearing a federal state could leave the country's oil resources in the hands of the Kurds...Is any government considering alternative energy sources not just for environmental reasons but as a means of promoting world peace? Iraq is potentially rich in solar energy, which knows no political boundaries
Green Power EMC Adds 11 New Members to Program
Georgia's first renewable energy program, Green Power EMC (Tucker, GA), just got larger with the addition of 11 new member EMCs, which brings Green Power EMC membership to 28 electric cooperatives in Georgia, offering green energy to approximately 1.2 million households.
Household Vehicles Energy Use; Latest Data & Trends
In 2001, the United States consumed 113.1 billion gasoline-equivalent gallons (GEG) to fuel passenger travel by light-duty vehicles, a rise of 3.3 percent per year from 1994, when 90.6 billion was consumed. The entire transport sector is not only the second largest consumer of energy, but it also has recently become the largest contributor to U.S. greenhouse gas emissions of carbon dioxide, topping industrial emissions in 1999, primarily due to transport's heavy reliance on petroleum products, such as motor gasoline.
Industrials oppose Alliant's request to escape PURPA obligation
In its filing, Alliant relied on changes made to the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act in the recently enacted 2005 Energy Policy Act that allow FERC to terminate a utility's purchase obligation under PURPA if the agency finds that a competitive wholesale power market exists.
IPE Brent falls as Katrina fails to disrupt US Gulf oil output
Iran to make new proposals for EU nuclear talks within a month
Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad will need "about a month to elaborate new proposals. Britain, France and Germany last week called off a planned Aug 31 meeting with the Iranians after Iran resumed uranium conversion work at Isfahan.
Iraqi Minister Says Rebuilding Water Infrastructure May Take up to Five Years
Iraq's water resources minister said Wednesday it could take up to five years to rebuild the country's water supply infrastructure, and that the lack of electricity and clean water has made sanitation "a desperate need" in rural areas.
Landfills Expand Energy Output
More than 380 U.S. landfills are now supplying methane generating 9 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity annually.
Marylanders Demand Testing After VA Power Plant Found to Exceed Pollution Levels
Maryland activists say they are appalled that a Virginia power plant may have to shut down entirely due to pollution violations and want officials to investigate power plants owned by the same company in D.C.'s Maryland suburbs to see if similar violations exist.
Matsushita, Intel to develop PC battery technology
They will jointly develop battery technology efficient enough to keep a notebook PC running all day.
Montana's Governor Eyes Coal to Solve US Fuel Costs
Montana's governor wants to solve America's rising energy costs using a technology discovered in Germany 80 years ago that converts coal into gasoline, diesel and aviation fuel.
Municipal utilities call on Congress to act on high gas prices
Nanotechnology offers some unprecedented goals and particularly in the areas of solar and wind power as well as fuel cells and transmission systems. Contrary to popular thought, nano-science is not a sudden phenomenon but an ongoing evolution that in certain areas appears ripe for commercialization.
New Guidelines Issued for Blending Biodiesel with Cold Diesel Fuel
In light of greater demand for biodiesel and a growing number of petroleum distributors getting into the biodiesel business. Biodiesel is a renewable diesel fuel that is made from domestic resources such as soybean oil or other domestic fats and vegetable oils. It can be used in any diesel engine with few or no modifications and can be blended with petroleum diesel at any level. Biodiesel significantly cuts harmful environmental emissions, promotes greater energy independence and boosts our economy.
Oregon Biopower Program Off to Strong Start
Lumber mills, wastewater treatment facilities, dairies and landfills are some entities offering proposed projects in response to Energy Trust's renewable energy outreach. "As far as we know, this is the first time anyone in Oregon has gone out looking specifically for biomass-fueled power generation, " Serchuk explained. "We are surprised and delighted to learn just how much biopower is out there. "
Orlando utility bets coal power can come clean
Orlando's electric utility committed itself Tuesday to building a $792 million, cutting-edge power plant that will pump out a tiny fraction of the pollutants that typically spew from almost all other coal-fired generators in the world. The United States has one of the world's largest supplies of coal.
PNM to Sell Renewable Energy Certificates to El Paso Electric Co.
PSC Rejects Plans to Build Power Line Through Boone Forest
In a decision environmentalists hailed as an important precedent, the Public Service Commission has rejected plans to build a power line through the Daniel Boone National Forest near Morehead. The ruling Friday means a large chunk of unbroken woods won't have a 100-foot right of way running through it
"All factors considered, we are maintaining a trading theme centered on a potentially tight gasoline market that could prove capable of pulling the entire complex to fresh record highs with or without the help of additional storm activity."
Rains and Flooding Kill Some 30 People in Mexico
Heavy rains and flooding from a series of storms have killed around 30 people in Mexico and left thousands homeless in coastal areas in the past week, with more rain forecast for the weekend.
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 082605
Solar activity was high. An impulsive M6/1n flare. Chance for an isolated M-class event. The geomagnetic field was predominantly at active to minor storm levels. Today's solar wind data was generally consistent with a coronal hole stream: velocities were elevated and the magnetic field indicated ongoing wave-like fluctuations.
Santee Cooper to reduce coal burn by 75,000 tons a year in 2006
When it begins burning wood in July. However, construction continues on two new coal-fired units at its Cross plant
in the same county. An arrangement made public Wednesday with South Carolina Electric & Gas may include even more coal-fired
generation
Sixth Finnish reactor 'question of when, not if'; report
There has been public discussion about a sixth. Executives at the Finnish-Swedish company have said they might move production to Finland from Sweden because the fifth reactor would provide inexpensive, secure electricity, while Sweden is officially committed to shutting down its reactors.
Subsidizing Renewable Energy Projects to Solve Waste Disposal Problems
A nonprofit organization called N.C. Green Power promotes clean energy in North Carolina, paying for anaerobic digestion equipment and solar and hydroelectric units. This year, N.C. Green Power will help fund two plants to run generators powered by methane gas at the Wayne County Landfill and Smithfield Foods (swine manure).
Forget about new paradigms, those futuristic structural changes that produced the tech bubble and that artful dodger, Enron Corp.
Soon, every light bulb burning in your home could help pay for your next vacation. But legislation to allow it -- to be voted on by the full state Senate today -- has hit fierce, last-minute opposition from credit card companies.
Weather Forecasting Getting More Complex
The outlook for predicting the weather is improving. Beginning this month the complex computer programs used by forecasters are getting more data on temperatures, water vapor and gases in the air and on how the ground affects the weather
What's moving the oil markets?
The fall in prices came as Hurricane Katrina, despite making landfall in Florida, has not affected US Gulf oil production as much as had been feared.
Wind Power is Expected to Serve 6% of the Nation's Electric Load by 2020
Research and Markets has added the U.S. Wind Prospects 2004 Edition to their offering. With most US states having initiatives in place to increase their generation of electric power by utilizing renewable energy resources, wind power is proving to be an effective alternate energy source.
Those hoping that renewables will be an 'instant fix' to the developing crisis in electricity generation are in for disappointment, reveals a new report from Thinking Energy, a unit of The Thinking Companies, Inc. Only wind power is applicable for new, large-scale electricity generation at the moment. The report, 'Earth, Water, Fire & Air: Utility Strategies for Renewable Energy' assesses the suitability of renewables for electric utilities, paying attention to their economics, their impact on transmission grids, and their current state of technological development.
Workers Evacuated at U.S. Nuclear Site after Leak
Some workers at the largest nuclear waste dump in the United
States were evacuated Wednesday after a container filled with radioactive
material was breached as it was being removed from storage, the U.S. Department
of Energy said.
August 25, 2005
African Ministers Say Clean Water Key To Fighting Poverty
Poor sanitation and unsafe drinking water is threatening to undermine U.N. efforts to fight poverty, hunger and disease in Africa, ministers and experts said Tuesday.
CHINA: It is imperative that we pay more attention to developing alternative energy sources, says the Nanning-based Nanguo Morning Post.
The month-long crippling shortage of fuel in South China's Guangdong Province is finally coming to an end.
Oil, a dwindling and unrenewable energy source, threatens to bottleneck the economic development.
At present, however, it is still impossible to draw up a national energy strategy without paying attention to oil.
It’s the homestretch. California’s SB-1, the Million Solar Roofs Bill, is in its last stages. But as any marathon runner knows, sometimes the last few feet are the hardest. We need your help in getting America’s most ambitious solar legislation over the finish line.
A White Paper entitled "The Economics of Solar Energy for California" was released today showing that the Million Solar Roofs Initiative (California Senate Bill #1) will save California over six billion dollars net of incentives.
Clean Coal Developers Eye Oil Imports -- August 10, 2005
Any claim to produce clean energy from coal is an oxymoron because most of the pollution from coal results from the mining of the coal. Currently in the U.S. we are systematically leveling the Southern Appalachian Mountains just to supply current levels of coal consumption primarily for electricity production. Supplying transportation fuels from coal will result in even more environmental damage beyond this already unacceptable level.
Coal gasification plant would be costly to ratepayers
Policymakers, whether they be at the local or state level, are gravitating to highly risky, large capital projects that involve base-load coal plants, power plants that are designed to run at least 80 percent of the time.
Colorado Scientist Quits Global Warming Panel
Colorado State University scientist Roger Pielke Sr. has resigned from a Bush administration
science advisory team in a disagreement over research into the causes of
global warming.
Pielke, who is also the state climatologist, said the Climate Change
Science Program had minimized evidence that factors other than
greenhouse gases can contribute to global warming.
Countries rated on attractiveness for renewable energy
Spain, the United States, Germany, India and the United Kingdom are rated as the top five markets in the world for wind energy.
Court Allows Suit Linking US Aid and Global Warming
Two environmental groups and four US cities may sue US federal agencies which finance overseas projects which they say contribute to global warming, a federal judge has ruled.
Demos seek tax credits for fuel products
Republicans say they've already introduced similar legislation
As gas prices inch closer to $3 per gallon, Democrats in the Michigan House are scheduled this week to announce legislation that would eventually require all gasoline sold in the state to be mixed with fuel made mostly of corn.
European prices of 50ppm sulfur fuels slide as demand dries up
Starting with Germany in 2003, most EU states have now introduced duty incentives to encourage motorists to switch to sulfur-free or 10ppm gasoline and diesel over the 50ppm products.
Everything Gets Worse With Coca-Cola
In the end it was the 'generosity' of Coca-Cola in distributing cadmium-laden waste sludge as 'free fertilizer' to the tribal aborigines who live near the beverage giant's bottling plant in this remote Kerala village that proved to be its undoing.
Firefighters Control Worst Portuguese Fires
Hundreds of fire fighters brought blazes under control in Portugal on Wednesday after days of intense efforts to stamp out the worst fires in decades.
Forest fires were raging out of control on Wednesday in Portugal, which is suffering its worst drought on record. Here are facts on recent major forest fires.
German oil products sales fall 0.2 in year to June on high price
A spokesman for the export office said the reason for the decline in sales was that fuel was so expensive. "Not everyone is taking their car for short journeys any more," the spokesman said.
Indigenous Lands Turn to Desert
Forty-five percent of Bolivian territory is undergoing a
relentless process of desertification, with agricultural, forestry and
infrastructure losses valued at more than 500 million dollars a year -- and it
is taking a particular toll on the indigenous communities of the high plains.
N.J. Finds Fault With Oyster Creek Nuclear Plant's Plans
The Oyster Creek nuclear power plant's bid for a license renewal could be at risk if the plant does not find a way to kill fewer fish.
Nine US States Break with Bush on Greenhouse Gases
Nine northeastern US states are working on a plan to cap and then reduce the level of greenhouse gas emissions from power plants, the first US deal of its kind and one which would see the region breaking with President George W. Bush who refused to sign the Kyoto Protocol.
Panel Sees Growing Threat in Melting Arctic
The rate of ice melting in the Arctic is increasing and a panel
of researchers says it sees no natural process that is likely to change that
trend.
Within a century the melting could lead to summertime ice-free ocean
conditions not seen in the area in a million years, the group said
Tuesday.
As we move further away from the US driving season and into winter, heating oil stocks will take over the mantle from gasoline. Whilst the heating oil stocks are currently at healthy levels, the fear of refinery runs being low is starting a panic with the thoughts that demand will exceed supply."
RE share increasing but still far below its economic potential
The share of renewables around the world, including large hydro but excluding biomass, has yet to reach 3%. The World Solar Programme raised awareness of and intensified interest in renewables, and “more intensive efforts to develop and utilize new and renewable sources of energy may be envisaged” as a result of the Kyoto Protocol.
Record Use Posted for Texas Power Grid
Temperatures that sizzled above 100 and the heavy use of air conditioners sent the Texas electricity grid to record use Tuesday.
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 082405
Solar activity was low during the past 24 hours. Today's activity consisted of a few C-class events. Fair chance for an isolated M-class event. The geomagnetic field ranged from quiet to severe storm levels. An initially quiet to unsettled field became disturbed after a series of two shocks and transient flow.
Russia plans to hike crude export tax to $175/mt in Oct, official
Russia reviews export duty every two months on the basis of an average world price for Urals crude, the country's main export grade. Crude prices have repeatedly hit all-time highs during 2005, and US benchmark crude briefly hit $68 in overnight trade Thursday.
Studies say LNG tanker transits would affect economy
Giant tankers carrying liquefied natural gas through Narragansett Bay could cause traffic backups, hurt tourism and marine economies and slow emergency response times, according to two new studies released Tuesday.
Swiss Braced for More Floods as Downpour Hits Europe
Rescue helicopters plucked stranded Swiss from roofs and balconies on Wednesday as rising water and strong currents prevented boats reaching homes in parts of Switzerland and more rain was forecast in coming days.
The Conservation-Conscious Salute This Man's Commute
As Americans worry over high gas prices, Jeff Kline glides along
for less than a penny a day in his shiny new velomobile.
His what?
Picture Fred Flintstone, running on the ground to get his car going before it zips away under its own power. Kline starts pedaling, and then batteries take over to move the vehicle along at an average cruising speed of about 22 mph.
The LNG Debate -- August 8, 2005
Natural gas is a non-renewable resource. The reason we are on the verge of large-scale imports of LNG is because North American natural gas has already hit its peak and gone into permanent long-term decline. Importing LNG will make us as dependent on imported LNG as we already are on imported oil. The only long-term solutions are greatly increased efficiency, conservation and renewable energy.
Michael Winkler
The Miseducation of Canada's First Nations
As the Coast Salish dancers began preparations for their healing dance, Chief Cranmer said, "We have come to look past what's happened to you. We have come here for our ancestors. We can find time to move to a better place." As a line formed inside the school, the hallways and classrooms brought back memories that had many people bent over and sobbing with tears.
To talk about 'LNG dependence'
To talk about "LNG dependence" as a reason to not develop LNG markets is to be in denial about our current and future natural gas dependence. I can understand why some would prefer (and benefit) from a strategy that keeps all the "eggs in fewer baskets" but it seems simple and straightforward that more supply options would improve current fuel market conditions, and help a bit to cool the red-hot oil and gas markets.
Transparency on Peak Oil needed
The issue of Peak Oil and what that means for the energy consumption of the world, particularly this country, comes to mind. There is a great need for the energy industry to be transparent about the peak and help the development of alternative fuels. What happens when the fuel for our entire commodity distribution system is no longer available?
UK forward month gas prices rise 9.2% in July
The high level puts a question-mark over UK industrial demand this winter, as some industrial users have said that manufacturing certain energy-intensive products is not economic when gas costs that much more than it does in continental Europe or in the US.
UK government debunks ten top myths for wind power
Windfarms in the United Kingdom have not been associated with any major adverse effects on birds, according to a new government internet site.
Utilities face coal bottleneck
As utility companies across the Midwest have updated investors about their operations over the past month, there’s been one constant - an eye toward slower shipments of coal used to fire up electric generators.
Venezuela's petroleum company opens China representative office in Beijing
"It will become an important supplementary to the relationship between the two governments and act as a bridge between companies of the two countries," said Ma.
Venezuela is rich in oil resources and is the world's fifth largest crude oil exporter.
<The> statement "The idea is to take an abundant resource such as coal and gasify it" is typical of the wasteful attitudes prevalent in our culture. I have heard it said that we have a 200-year supply of "abundant" coal. Well oil was discovered about 150 years ago and the "abundant" supply of oil is just about gone. Every reference to our coal supply should include a reference to the incredibility-limited time we have left before only renewable energy resources will be left.
Gary A. Jacob, PWS
Shaw Environmental & Infrastructure
August 24, 2005
Antarctic Ozone Hole Grows from Last Year - WMO
The winter hole in the ozone layer above Antarctica appears to have grown from last year but is still smaller than in 2003, when it was at its largest.
Bush administration unveils new US fuel efficiency proposal
California Million Solar Roofs Update
SB 1 will be put on the Suspense File in Assembly Appropriations Committee on Wednesday, August 24th. SEIA expects intense behind-the-scenes negotiations in order to get the bill out of the suspense file and up for a vote. The 26th is the deadline
Changes in coal-mining rule fought in Knoxville, Tenn.
At issue is a 2-decades-old rule that protects streams and water quality during strip mining by creating a 100-foot stream buffer zone that has proven unpopular with companies who want to "mine through" the streams during mountaintop removal.
China to boost development of natural gas, nuclear power
* This accounted for 67 per cent of the country's total energy consumption.
Development Yields Antifreeze from Biodiesel
In addition to topping off your gas tank with biodiesel, a new advance could let you fill your vehicle's cooling system with a biomass-derived antifreeze.
Ecuador Protesters are Optimistic over Oil Deal
Protesters whose attacks have choked off Ecuador's oil exports held out hopes on Tuesday for reaching a deal under which energy companies would invest more in the poor Amazon communities where they drill.
Europe acts on Portugal’s fires
The European Commission has facilitated a rapid response to the growing crisis of Portugal’s forest fires, which are raging in more than 50 places around the country. A total area of 114,000 hectares has already been lost the fires over recent weeks, and upcoming weather forecasts have threatened to worsen the situation further.
When some chemical manufacturing organizations in Texas wanted to cut their electricity rates, they decided to aggregate their buying power to create more leverage over potential providers. Altogether, 400 chemical makers and suppliers there have banned together and now use a professional energy buyer to negotiate their contracts. Aggregation -- as it is known -- attempts to create economies of scale so that the participants in the buying pool receive a lesser price
GE's Discovery Advances Solar Energy
"The discovery of a photovoltaic effect in our nanotube device could lead to exciting breakthroughs in solar cells that make them more efficient and a more viable alternative in the mainstream energy market."
Greenland talks add ‘impetus’ to climate debate
The Greenland Dialogue on Climate Change, which was set up by the Danish government, focused on the impacts of global warming and the potential outcomes of inaction, along with wider sustainable development issues and future co-operation.
Indonesia and South Africa to Develop Nuclear Technology
The use of alternative sources of energy became more important with the soaring oil prices at present, Mengana said.
He said currently 95 per cent of energy consumption in his country is generated from coal and nuclear energy will be need as an alternative as that country has no oil.
Iran blames EU for troubled nuke diplomacy after EU cancels talks
The EU through the three countries recently offered Iran nuclear technology, including access to nuclear fuel, increased trade and help with Tehran's regional security concerns. But Tehran rejected it because the European proposal was conditional on Iran's ceasing uranium enrichment.
Lottery grants target water issue
“The announcement of today's grants to UK charities will make a real and lasting difference through projects that provide solutions for building sustainable futures,
Nuclear Clean-Up Bill Jumps to $1 Trillion
The next five years, between 2006 and 2010, will be the busiest period, with even more clean-up contracts expected than in 2031- 2035 and 2036-2040, when the bulk of the decommissioning of the world's nuclear power plants to take place.
Philippine gov't establishes audit team to ensure energy saving
The Philippine government Tuesday said that it has established an audit team to ensure its agencies' compliance with energy-saving measures amid the looming oil crisis.
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 082405
Solar activity was moderate. Region 798 could produce another M-class flare as it rotates around the west limb. The geomagnetic field was quiet to unsettled. Storm conditions are possible on Aug 24 and 25 due to CME activity. Proton event is expected to continue for the next 24 to 48 hours
Republicans Eye Offshore Drilling in US Budget Bill
Republicans next month may try to open new US offshore areas to oil and gas drilling in a move that would bring in billions of dollars in new revenue and let politicians claim progress in boosting domestic energy supplies at a time of record prices.
Six Killed, Hundreds Flee as Alpine Floods Spread
Rivers deluged by alpine waters burst their banks in Austria and Germany on Tuesday, while mudslides blocked roads and railway tracks.
Talks Do Not Constitute Agreement
Iraqi political factions have not been able to work out an
agreement on a new constitution despite extended deadlines and growing U.S.
pressure.
The cost of the solar tax breaks to the U.S. Treasury--less than $52 million out of a $14.5 billion energy package--may seem trifling. But ...
Toxic legacy of e-waste revealed
Scrap yards that recycle ‘e-waste’ in China and India are exposing workers and the surrounding environment to a host of highly dangerous chemicals, according to a new report published by Greenpeace this week. The ‘Toxic Tech’ report highlights the ongoing black market for sending dangerous and sensitive waste to developing countries.
Uranium spot price jumps to over $30 a pound U308
US BLM set to begin next phases of domestic energy inventory
US natural gas cash prices continue to march higher
WARNING; Geomagnetic K-index of 7 or greater expected
**** EXTREME GEOMAGNETIC STORM ****
Two large Earth-directed coronal mass ejections occurred on
August 22, which resulted in today's extreme geomagnetic storming.
Western grid panel commits to expanding commercial role
The WECC already handles many reliability and resource adequacy chores, but has decided to take on commercial issues, mainly surrounding the planning of the region's transmission system, after mulling its options following the release of a White Paper in April, he said.
For nearly two weeks, Cindy Sheehan has been camped outside George W. Bush's ranch in Crawford, Texas, demanding a meeting with the U.S. president. Her son, Army Specialist Casey Sheehan, was killed in Iraq last April. Since no weapons of mass destruction have been found there, she thinks Bush owes her an explanation.
Workers exposed to low-level radioactive water at nuclear plant
Two workers were exposed recently to low-level radioactive water when conducting a test inside a facility housing the No. 3 reactor at Mihama Nuclear Power Plant in Fukui Prefecture, which has been suspended since a fatal steam pipe rupture in August last year, Kansai Electric Power Co. said Tuesday.
WWF Helps Orangutans to Keep on Swinging
The forests of Indonesia and Malaysia are fast disappearing due to logging and deliberate burning to make way for agriculture and palm oil plantations.
August 23, 2005
ADWR Files Report on Phelps Dodge – Show Low Lake Case
The Arizona Department of Water Resources has filed its report with the Apache County Superior Court as part of a legal proceeding that will determine the nature, extent and relative priority of water rights within the watersheds of the Little Colorado River system.
The proceeding, known as the Little Colorado River Adjudication, is presided over by Judge Eddward P. Ballinger Jr.
Air Products plans hydrogen plant for ExxonMobil Joliet refinery
Canadians Gear Up for Protest against Natural Gas Projects in Maine
Growing opposition to proposals for liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects in Maine could fuel a fight between Canada and the United States over access to the pristine waters off southern New Brunswick.
Chattanooga, Tenn., area sees big hike in summer power consumption
As the economy and temperatures heat up this summer, the Tennessee Valley Authority has surpassed last year's all-time power peak three times already this summer.
Cool autumn in Northeast US could boost gas storage levels; WSI
Direct Energy to offer green power below price to beat in Texas
Down-to-Earth Merchandise Organically Grown
For Stephanie Woods of Meiners Oaks,
organic gardening was her way of caring for the Earth. She had one
problem: the clothes that she would wear while gardening were not
eco-friendly nor stylish.
So Woods developed an organic clothing line called Can You Dig It?
Early report suggests chance of colder winter for UK
ECSI Receives Over $400,000 in Purchase Order Upgrade For Nuclear Power Station Security
Electronic Control Security, Inc. (OTCBB:EKCS), a leading provider of security solutions to governments and corporations worldwide, today announced it has received a purchase order to upgrade the security at another southern nuclear power station valued at more than $400,000.
Ecuador Talks with Protesters, Ups Oil Production
Ecuador's government opened talks with protest leaders who choked off the country's oil exports but officials said that even though production climbed on Monday, a full recovery for the industry could be a long way off.
Energy Prices are Shaping the World Pump Market
The rising costs of energy are shaping the $27 billion per year pump market in a number of ways. The market for pumps used in coal-fired power plants has reached a peak many times higher than the average over the last several decades. In fact, China alone, over just a four year period, will buy more pumps for coal-fired plants than the rest of the world purchased over the previous ten years.
EPA seeks public comment on proposed Nevada nuclear waste plan
FPL opens bidding for plants in western Palm Beach County
Nearly 5 million homes and businesses are expected to be getting their electricity from Florida Power & Light Co. in 2014.
That's 5 million homes and businesses filled with people using power-hungry air conditioners, televisions and computers all the time, placing more demands on FPL's system.
Fuji Heavy Industries Unveils Subaru Li-Ion Mini Car
Subaru vehicle maker unveiled plans to make its first foray into battery-powered autos with an electric minicar concept model that uses high-performance, lithium-ion (Li-Ion) batteries that can be recharged in minutes.
Haze Eases as Rain and Firefighters Douse Indonesia Blazes
Heavy rains and an international firefighting effort on Indonesia's Sumatra have extinguished most forest fires that had spewed choking haze over parts of the island and neighbouring Malaysia, officials said on Monday.
Indonesia Pushes Palm to Capture Green Fuel Pie
Indonesia will proceed with plans to sharply boost palm oil output over the next three years to quench the thirst of bio-fuel makers, despite opposition from environmental groups, the agriculture minister said on Monday.
Interviews Senator Pete Domenici on the Energy Policy Act of 2005
Recently the President signed the Energy Policy Act of 2005. The bill includes incentives and tax cuts that will encourage investment in the utility and energy industry. Sen. Pete Domenici (R-NM) led this effort and after years of hard work with parties on both sides of the aisle and persistence, resulted in the U.S. Energy Policy Act of 2005.
Japan to launch 'Warm Biz' campaign in fall
Kentucky utilities hope to build new power lines over 700 landowners property
A meeting Aug. 30 could reveal much broader opposition to a utility's desire -- and necessity -- to build new lines over 700 landowners' property. Of the 700 property owners, only an average of 20 percent have attended the meetings. EKPC said a good turnout would have been 50 percent. But the low turnout doesn't mean landowners aren't continuing to learn about the effects the new corridors may have, and some have begun to take action.
Low prices in Ohio keep outside electric providers at bay
If you are an electricity consumer looking for someone to provide your power at lower rates than your local utility, don't expect to get your wish anytime soon. The established utilities have a clear motivation to work to keep rates low enough so that outside suppliers don't get a competitive opportunity, said Robert Burns, a researcher with the National Regulatory Research Institute based at Ohio State University.
Montana Stream Law Still Under Attack, 20 Years after Passage
The law is still under attack from some private landowners who believe that streams running through their private property should be off limits to the many rafters, anglers and other outdoor enthusiasts who flock to the state's scenic waterways. They say the law violates property rights and increases the risk of environmental damage while serving the special interests of commercial fishing guides.
Most coal companies absorbing higher diesel costs
NASA Funded Program Helps Stop Water Contamination
New Ozone SuperStore is Open for Business
Nigerian Protesters Lift Siege of Oil Facilities
The protest by five communities over compensation for an oil spill and fire in 2003 had originally shut a 14,000 barrel-per-day (bpd) pumping station, but the impact rose to 25,000 bpd on Sunday when villagers blockaded a pipeline intersection known as Agbada-2.
Power Systems Mfg.'s Low Emissions Technology to Eliminate 90 of Power Plant NOx Emissions
PSM will convert five GE Frame 7E gas turbines with its proprietary system to eliminate approximately 90-percent of the power plant's nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. This project will be PSM's eighth installation of its LEC-III(R) system in four countries, comprising sixteen units with several additional units in backlog.
Proposed Texas power plants could aggravate ozone problems
Six proposed power plants have raised concerns that tons of ozone-forming pollution will drift into the Dallas-Fort Worth region, undermining regional efforts to clean the air.
Reaching Balance; Europe Weighs Health Verses Industry
The law, known as REACH, would require the testing and licensing of thousands of commonly used substances, like those in paint and detergents, to determine whether they pose a threat to the environment and consumers' health.
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 082305
Solar activity was high. Flare was associated with significant radio output. Both flares were associated with apparent earth-directed CMEs. Solar activity is expected to be moderate. Another major flare is possible. The geomagnetic field was quiet to unsettled with isolated active periods.
Russian-US uranium export programme reaches half-way mark
The latest cargo, 42 tonnes of low-enriched uranium, has left the port of St Petersburg for Baltimore under the Russian-US HEU-LEU [high-enriched uranium - low-enriched uranium] agreement, known as the Megatons to Megawatts programme.
Can economic growth, sustainable development, improved public
health and reduced poverty levels of underprivileged communities all come from a
glass of clean drinking water? With nearly one person in five globally
lacking access to safe drinking water, healthy water practices and products are
fundamental to the preservation, protection and improvement of both individual
and community well-being.
Swiss Downpour Brings Floods and Landslides
Torrential rain has lashed Switzerland non-stop for nearly three days, unleashing landslides and floods which have cut off villages in central Switzerland and killed two fire-fighters.
Tax Credit Energizes Wind Farms
The tax credit, extended through the end of 2007, is "the largest period of certainty that wind energy has had," Hanger said. "That's very positive."
Toxic Waste Sparks Violent Protest at China Factory
Chinese protesters set fire to factory buildings and police cars in a clash sparked by toxic waste, police and residents said on Monday, the latest illustration of a growing wave of public dissent. "Some children died of lead pollution and the demonstration might have been initiated by the parents."
UK-Belgium Interconnector switched Sunday to carry gas to UK
US Senate Democrats eye windfall profits tax on oil companies
August 22, 2005
Diaphragm compressors are a key technology for the coming hydrogen economy. Pdc Machines Inc., a manufacturer of such compressors from Warminster, PA, has made "compressing a cleaner future" one of its core activities, delivering its devices to hydrogen generation companies, automobile manufacturers, and fuel cell developers around the world.
A peanut packer at Portales wants his own turbine to cut power bills
Economic developers and state officials hope the project inspires other agricultural producers and rural small businesses to do the same around New Mexico.
Britain's Climate Blamed for Bird Changes
Milder winters have pushed bird populations eastward and could result in new bird species being found in Britain. "It is now clear that we must adapt the recovery plans for our threatened bird life to take account of the likely effects of climate change on our rural and coastal landscapes."
Centrica and Ceres Power are to build a fuel-cell-powered mini-boiler for domestic use.Fuel-cells can be used to provide household electricity and heat more efficiently than the current technology. However, if their use became widespread, there would be important ramifications for electricity distribution and the Renewables Obligation.
Connecticut Passes Clean Energy Package
Connecticut recently passed legislation that is expected to bolster the development of renewable energy and distributed generation (DG) in the state.
Could photosynthesis be harnessed for electrical power?
Scientists are on a 'full court press' to harness nature's processes to tap into energy and other products and processes. Trees do not generate electricity though, but they do use sunlight to convert sugars into energy to grow.
Energy Conservation Reaches the Mainstream
America's new energy bill pits two competing philosophies against one another: The idea that fossil fuels will remain the pinnacle of national policy versus the hope that newer and cleaner energy sources will become the long term solution. The contest manifests itself most clearly with the enactment of energy conservation provisions alongside a renewed commitment to such fuels as coal and natural gas.
While such views appear to be contradictory, they are not.
Europeans Send Fire-Fighting Help to Portugal
France, Germany, Italy and Spain offered Portugal help to battle forest fires raging across the country on Sunday after Lisbon made a request to the EU's executive Commission, officials and local media said.
Grid Improvements Needed to Prevent Blackout Like 2003's
Two years ago, at about 4 p.m. EDT Time on Aug. 14, a 9,300-square-mile area stretching from the Midwest to New England began losing electric power in a rapidly spreading blackout that ultimately darkened a third of the country, leaving 50 million people without electricity.
But for many people the question remains, "Could it happen again?" A Carnegie Mellon University economist thinks that it not only could, but that it most likely will.
Guide to Mediterranean heatwave
Searing heat and drought are affecting large swathes of southern Europe and North Africa. Click on the map for situation reports from the worst-hit countries
Has the Sheen Been Blown Off Wind?
With recent Exxon Mobil ads relegating wind to less than one percent of future energy use and recent introduction of legislation to restrict wind farms by Senators Alexander and Warner, has the sheen been blown off wind?
No, quite the opposite is true.
Concepts to utilize large-scale base load solar abound.
The most noted successes start with the 350 MW in the Southern California
desert by nine electric generation plants that began operating in the mid-1980s.
These concentrated solar plants use troughs (concave glass mirrors) to heat a
synthetic fluid to over 700 degrees C and create steam for electric generation.
Purenergy announced today the launch of the HTC Purenergy commercial marketing operations. The Purenergy "Carbon Clear Solutions" product.
Investors warm to Ceres' 'home power station' idea
When oil trades at $25 a barrel, developing a mini-power station for the home is seen as a crackpot scheme, but when it trades at almost $70, the idea is viewed as a stroke of genius.
Jülich kerosene to hydrogen reformer technology ready for take-off
The latest Jülich reformer is all of a piece. The compact module contains all the equipment necessary to autonomously produce hydrogen gas for a fuel cell from the aviation fuel kerosine.A self-sufficient and stable reformer system could pave the way for the use of fuel cells in aircraft.
Plea to Stop Squabbles Ends Greenland Climate Talks
Representatives of 23 nations deeply split about how to combat global warming ended talks in Greenland on Friday with a plea from the host to stop years of squabbling and take urgent action.
Quote of the day
08220
"There are a lot of problems and differences among the groups in Iraq.
The main problem so far has been the distribution of Iraq's resources. We have
not agreed on that yet."
Report Details More Than Two Thousand Fuel Cells Operating in Over 26 Countries
More than two thousand fuel cells are providing clean, reliable and in some cases, renewable on-site or backup power at locations in more than 26 countries, according to a comprehensive update released today by Fuel Cells 2000.
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 082005
Solar activity was very low. Only small B-class flares occurred.Solar activity is expected to be very low to low. The geomagnetic field is expected to be mostly quiet.
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 082205
Solar activity was low. The geomagnetic field ranged from quiet to active. The geomagnetic field is expected to be quiet to unsettled with isolated active periods under the influence of a high speed coronal hole stream.
Study Reveals Most Wild Chimps Are Southpaws
Scientists have long debated whether nonhuman primates exhibit
handedness.
Because the hands are controlled by opposite sides of the brain, the
finding could indicate that this brain division had begun as long as 5
million years ago, prior to the split between humans and chimpanzees.
Support Grows for Plug-In Hybrids
It looks like a typical Toyota Prius hybrid, but in the trunk sits an 80-miles-per-gallon secret — a stack of 18 brick-sized batteries that boosts the car's high mileage with an extra electrical charge so it can burn even less fuel.
Crude oil prices spurted to an all-time high near $67 a barrel this month. Regular gasoline kissed $2.90 a gallon locally. All motorists could do about it was pucker up to Big Oil, dig a little deeper in their pockets and wonder: When will cars run on something besides gasoline or diesel?Something like hydrogen, the most abundant element in the universe.
"There is a potential for replacing essentially all gasoline with hydrogen over the next half century using only domestic resources," the National Academy of Sciences reported last year.
Dan Sperling, professor of engineering and environmental policy at UC Davis, said, "There's probably only one developing country in the world that could even conceive of [leapfrogging ahead]. And that's China."
Tucson FCEV; on the road in Europe to promote sustainable mobility
Driving car number 7, a Hyundai Tucson FCEV (Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle), Lee Jeongbae and Choi Seoho, senior engineers of the Research and Development Division at Hyundai Motor Company, came second in this first major European rally for fuel cell and hybrid vehicles recently.
August 19, 2005
Bulgarian Floods Cause $633 Million in Damage -UN
More than a quarter of Bulgaria's 7.4 million people have been touched by flooding that has killed 20 and caused some $633 million in damage, the United Nations said on Thursday. Bulgaria and neighboring countries have been swept for weeks by torrential rains.
Drought Flattens Portugal Wheat, Hits Tourist Area
Portugal is among the worst hit of European countries suffering from drought. Taps have run dry in 43 towns and the quality of drinking water in a few areas is worsening, according to the government's Water Institute.
Energy Bill Doles Out Breaks to Big Business but Also Benefits Taxpayers
Energy Bill Extends Wind Power Incentive Through 2007
By changing the PTC expiration date to December 31, 2007, the extension leaves in place the PTC’s current 1.9 cent per kilowatt-hour value, the annual inflation adjustment provision and the 10-year term to generate credits following the installation of a wind turbine. The bill also does not include an incentive for small wind systems for homeowners and small businesses, although it provides a 30 percent credit capped at $2,000 for residential solar systems and fuel cells.
Energy Law May Spawn Merger Mania
The 1,700 page energy bill is now law. Embedded in there is repeal of the federal law that had created a wall between a utility's regulated and unregulated businesses and restricted the types of businesses in which utilities could engage.The so-called Public Utilities Holding Company Act (PUHCA) of 1935 had been considered by the administration, many lawmakers and utilities to be "outdated, Depression-era" law. Now that the old law has been repealed, some say that the industry appears ripe for more consolidation and a new influx of capital that can help pay for investments in new transmission and generation.
Fugitive L.A. Alligator becomes Local Folk Hero
More than a week after a man-sized alligator stunned authorities by surfacing in a murky Los Angeles lake, the fugitive reptile has already become a folk hero in the gritty neighborhood where he continues to outwit wranglers and elude capture. Authorities believe the alligator was probably once an exotic pet that was abandoned when it grew too large. Alligators are not indigenous to California.
Iraq oil products crisis deepens despite higher domestic output
Major cities including Baghdad are suffering from frequent power cuts in temperatures above 50 Celsius and long lines at petrol pumps with black market prices escalating sharply for the main so-called white products--gasoline, gasoil and kerosene.
Japan Quake Causes Radioactive Water Spill from Spent Fuel Storage Pools; No Leakage Outside
Water containing small amounts of radiation spilled out of spent fuel storage pools at two nuclear power plants in northern Japan when a powerful magnitude-7.2 earthquake shook the region, the plants' operator said Wednesday.
Loan guarantees benefit gasification strategy
He said that the loan guarantees "change the economics between integrated gasification combined-cycle and pulverized coal plants." They will "encourage development of clean-burning gas from the domestic coal supply and create new forms of energy," Rosenberg said.
Low water levels causing ongoing delays along Ohio River
Low Water, No Power; Ameren energy plant reopens after closing because of low river levels
Farmers aren't the only ones feeling the impact of this drought. The Mississippi and Ohio rivers are running at critically low stages. At Cape Girardeau, the Mississippi is sitting at a stage of 8.4 feet when last year it was 12.4 feet. Roth said a normal stage at this point in the year near Cape Girardeau is 15 feet.
NRC to complete spent fuel pool analyses this year
Nuclear Industry Hopes to Capitalize on Surge in China
Within weeks, the Chinese government is expected to announce an $8billion nuclear-reactor order that is just the beginning of a commercial bonanza the beleaguered nuclear industry has long craved.
Officials at Global Conference Say It's Time to Take Action on Global Warming
Near a glacier that's retreating at an alarming pace, environmental ministers and other officials from 23 countries met Thursday and agreed that nations must take action against global warming. The dispute over Kyoto has been marked by sharp criticism from both factions -- but the participants in this week's meetings and inspection trips appeared unified in agreeing that the time for such rhetoric has passed.
Power plant emissions of smog component fall in eastern US: EPA
Australia is a global energy freak. It has among the lowest levels of energy efficiency, the highest levels of carbon emission and the lowest electricity prices. It also has the largest known reserves of uranium, exports more coal than any other country and has abundant oil and gas fields, enjoys plentiful sunlight and sits above the world's most predictable wind zone, the roaring forties.
"In our view, solar is the long- term solution," says the company.
"But even if we had a solar panel on every second house in Australia over the next 15 years, by 2020 it would only make a small contribution.
Princeton Power Builds Integrated Solar Pumping Power Converter
The power converter uses Princeton Power's patented AC-Link technology to convert solar power into usable regulated electricity, which is then used to power a large water pump. This is highly useful in agricultural applications, which consume a great deal of electricity and require reliable water movement. "We built an integrated unit that could efficiently and reliably maximize the amount of power drawn from the solar panels, and complement it with power from the utility grid whenever necessary
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 081905
Solar activity was very low. several B-class flares. The geomagnetic field was quiet to active due to the continued influence of a coronal hole high speed stream. Solar wind speed at ACE has gradually decreased from approximately 700 km/s to 620 km/s.
SMUD Partners with Treasure Homes to Build Zero Energy Homes
features the latest in energy efficiency equipment, tighter building standards and solar roof tiles to generate electricity. The combination of energy efficiency and solar power can reduce annual energy bills by as much as 60 percent. The 32-home community is designed for first-time, entry-level and first move-up homebuyers.
Temporary Pumping System keeps Wastewater Treatment Plant Operating
Heavy rains last winter and spring in Arizona had been a welcome and much needed event, filling most lakes and reservoirs to capacity. However, even though Arizona needed the precipitation, it caused interesting challenges along the way.
UC Researchers to Use Dirty Silicon for Cheaper Solar
A research team led by engineers at the University of California, Berkeley, has developed a new technique to handle metal defects in low-grade silicon, an advance that could dramatically reduce the cost of solar cells. Nearly 90 percent of solar, or photovoltaic (PV), cells in the world are made from a refined, highly purified form of silicon, the same material used to make integrated circuits.
US Refiners Face Dilemma on MTBE Additive
The new US energy law will force US refiners to decide whether to stop making a water-fouling gasoline additive, and the result could mean higher pump prices next summer. US retail gasoline prices hit an all-time high above $2.50 per gallon this week as crude futures neared $70 a barrel, and a provision in the energy bill signed into law this month could make things even worse.
Utility Looks to Landfill for Fuel
At a time when consumers are facing rising gasoline and natural gas prices, a Vectren subsidiary is looking for energy in an unusual place: a city landfill. "The Department of Energy and other national entities have a strategy of encouraging the use of alternative energy. Here's a company, in ESG, trying to walk the walk."
World Running Out of Time for Oil Alternatives
The world could run out of time to develop cleaner alternatives to oil and other fossil fuels before depletion drives prices through the roof, a leading Dutch energy researcher said on Thursday.
"If we run out of fossil fuels -- by the time the oil price hits 100 dollars or plus, people will be screaming for alternatives, but whether they will be available at that moment of time -- that's my biggest worry," Hoff said.
August 18, 2005
American Electronic Waste Contaminates China and India
Waste from computers, televisions and other devices used in the United States is polluting the environment and exposing workers to toxic chemicals in regions of China and India where discarded electronics are dismantled
Big game 'could roam US plains'
If a group of US researchers have their way, lions, cheetahs, elephants and camels could soon roam parts of North America, Nature magazine reports. According to Dr Donlan and his colleagues, the re-wilding plan would offer ecotourism and land-management jobs to help the struggling economies of the Great Plains and Southwest.
Buyers' market emerging for US silicon as auto demand stays weak
Soft pricing is not a surprise given plentiful supply in the US, including material produced in the US, Norway, Brazil and South Africa, combined with weak demand for silicon-bearing aluminum alloys from the auto sector, market sources agreed.
European solar group calls for feed-in tariffs
Comparing the performance of different support mechanisms applied to green power market development concludes that “a feed-in tariff is at present the best support proposal for the PV market,” says the European Photovoltaic Industry Association in its position paper.
Fast-Food Chains to Use 100 Renewable Energy
The Holland, Inc., owner of Burgerville and Noodlin' restaurants throughout Northwest Oregon and Southwest Washington, has committed to use renewable wind power to provide 100% of its electricity needs, both at its chain stores and also at its corporate headquarters in Vancouver.
It introduces the concept of "food miles", as in "How many total miles did your lunch travel to get to your plate?" So all in all, [totalling Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner] I ate food from eight countries that traveled a whopping 35,675 collective miles to my plate via truck, train, boat and plane before being picked up and driven home by me in a personal vehicle.
GE Energy Receives DOE Contract To Develop Hybrid Fuel Cell-Gas Turbine System
GE Energy has been selected by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to develop a highly efficient, multi-megawatt solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC)-based power system operating on coal.
Hatch Attacks Skull Valley Plan
Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, said Tuesday he and others made an overwhelming case to officials of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security against building a high-level nuclear waste repository in Skull Valley, Tooele County.
Hearing sought on Three Mile Island operating license
A decision by federal regulators not to oppose transfer of the Three Mile Island operating license from AmerGen to its parent company, Exelon Nuclear, was challenged Tuesday by Harrisburg-based watchdog group Three Mile Island Alert.
Ireland's gas demand to continue to grow: CER
While this represents a slowdown on the rate of growth, it shows that the inexorable growth in demand of natural gas is set to continue.
Is Siberian Thaw Beginning of Climate 'Tipping Point'
Siberia feels the heat It's a frozen peat bog the size of France and Germany combined, contains billions of tonnes of greenhouse gas and, for the first time since the ice age, it is melting !
Long rise in oil prices finally takes toll in U.S.
A long rise in energy prices finally seems to be pinching the U.S. economy. After absorbing the burden of oil at $40 a barrel, then at $50 and beyond, American consumers have started to react as prices have risen above $60 in recent weeks. Meanwhile, the government reported on Tuesday that inflation surged last month. Nearly all of the rise in inflation came from energy prices.
An agreement could result in construction of a 4,500-acre solar generating station in southern California which, when completed, would be the world’s largest solar facility, capable of generating more electricity than all other U.S. solar projects combined.
Manila pushes for national law on energy conservation, efficiency
Pa. plans to develop its own stringent mercury regulations
Plan puts power lines in the ground
Miles of power lines in Albuquerque could be forced underground under a proposed ordinance by city Councilor Michael Cadigan.
Practical Solar Develops New CSP Heliostat System
Practical Solar Inc. (Boston, MA) has developed a new, proprietary concentrating solar power (CSP) system to harness energy from the sun. The small-scale heliostat system can direct up to 300 m² of sunlight onto a single square meter. The concentrated solar energy can be used to produce heat, light, and power for an unlimited number of applications, at only a fraction of the cost of other solar technologies.
QUOTEWORTHY
Red Tide Bloom Strikes Off Florida Coast
An unusually fierce red tide bloom this summer has choked off
oxygen and killed undersea life in a region of the Gulf of Mexico bottom about
10 miles off the coast of Florida, scientists said.
Red tide is formed when a microscopic algae reproduces at an explosive
rate.
Renewables slowly increase market share in U.S.
The use of renewable energies in the United States will grow more in the next 12 months than it has in recent years, according to data from the federal government. Renewables will provide 6.7% of that total demand, a increase over the 6.6% in 2005, 6.5% in 2004 and 6.4% in 2003.
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 081805
Solar activity was very low. The geomagnetic field was mostly unsettled to active. Solar wind speed at ACE has been variable between approximately 600 km/s to 750 km/s due to the continued influence of a coronal hole high speed stream. The geomagnetic field is expected to be at mostly unsettled levels on 18 August and gradually diminish to quiet to unsettled conditions by 19 - 20 August.
SC Johnson & Son drops opposition to 1,230-MW coal-fired plant
The Wisconsin Supreme Court cleared the way for the two coal-fired Elm Road units in June. "Like many of you, I was disheartened when the Wisconsin Supreme Court recently cleared the way for the construction of two-coal fired power plants at Oak Creek near our homes and workplaces," Johnson wrote.
The political dust-up over radiation standards approved in the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) plans for a nuclear waste facility at Yucca Mountain, Nevada could be toned down if the U.S. were to begin recycling spent nuclear fuel rods, according to scholars with the NCPA's E-Team project.
South Korea rules out major economic fallout from high oil prices
"High oil prices were one of the main causes for a delay in economic recovery in the first half, but a strong won is helping minimize its impact on consumer prices
South Korea, US to cooperate on hydrogen energy project
South Korea and the United States will work together to develop
a next-generation nuclear reactor that promises to produce large
quantities of hydrogen at a low cost, officials said Wednesday [17
August].
U.S. agency coordinates purchase of wind and biomass certificates
Ten U.S. energy agencies and an army base have teamed up to buy 590,000 MWh of green power.Purchasing renewable energy credits helps to meet the goals outlined in the ‘Greening the Government Through Efficient Energy Management’ initiative, which provides goals for federal agencies to expand the use of renewable energy.
US Senators; Global Warming Obvious in Far North
Fresh from visits to Canada's Yukon Territory and Alaska's northernmost city, four US senators said on Wednesday that signs of rising temperatures on Earth are obvious and they called on Congress to act.
Widespread Unhealthy to Hazardous Air Quality in Alaska
Air quality in the Interior is severely degraded due to smoke from more than one hundred wildfires burning in Alaska and Canada. The Fairbanks region is experiencing heavy smoke, with conditions there ranging from unhealthy to hazardous.
Wind and solar groups commend U.S. energy legislation
The Act contains “a number of important provisions for the wind energy industry,” says AWEA, in addition to the extension of the production tax credit through 2007. The Act also requires that utility system reliability rules be non-discriminatory and it provides incentives to encourage construction of new and upgraded transmission lines.
August 17, 2005
Figures compiled by the Met Office and the University of East Anglia (UEA) for the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) reveal that 2004 has been the fourth warmest year globally since records began in 1861. Global mean surface temperature over land and sea was 0.44 °C above the 1961-1990 average; for land areas alone, it was even warmer at 0.67 °C above the average. The last ten years has seen 9 of the 10 warmest years on record with only 1996 not making the top ten.
If doubters in Washington and elsewhere have been waiting for evidence that alternative sources of electricity work and are increasingly popular, they should look to the marketplace. Now, solar system installers report they can't get enough solar panels for all the customers who want them.
Asarco's Bankruptcy Leaves Environmentalists Wondering about Cleanups
Tucson-based Asarco LLC's recent filing for bankruptcy protection. Certainly, the trust fund is nowhere near enough to cover the extent of Asarco's environmental obligations, and in the end, Grupo Mexico has successfully stripped this company of its assets and left enormous financial and environmental liabilities for state and federal governments to deal with,
Changing Levels at Arizona Lakes Proves Costly for Park Service
Drought caused the water levels at Lake Powell and Lake Mead to
plunge, forcing the federal government to shell out millions to compensate for
the losses.
The National Park Service has spent about $20 million to alter
utilities, ramps, sewage facilities and other infrastructure on the lakes during
three years of declining water levels.
Cirro to open free-standing retail power store in Texas
The state's first
free-standing retail power store is officially to open in San Angelo Aug 16.
San Angelo is part of the tri-city area with Midland and Odessa.
Customers will enjoy the same ease in buying power that they do for cell
phones and pagers
Denmark Urges 'New Thinking' on Climate Change
Ministers and officials from nations including the United States, China, India, Mexico and the European Union were attending in a bid to resolve deep policy splits after Washington pulled out of the UN's Kyoto protocol on combating global warming in 2001. "We must find a model for how all big emitters of greenhouse gas can be actively involved in future climate efforts," Moeller said.
Earn money through climate protections projects
The project development mechanisms of the Kyoto Protocol present interesting financing instruments for the renewable energy industry. For the renewable technologies exporting branch the mechanisms open new and promising worldwide markets.
Hedging risks is once again becoming big business. It's happening in large part because investment banks and hedge funds that are focused on the energy sector are getting into power and gas trading. And if the market functions properly, the benefits would likely trickle down to end users who benefit from more market transparency.
French hydro output during July down 15.4% y-o-y to 3,821GWh: RTE
Dry conditions in southwest Europe have restricted hydro output in France and Spain, but a high level of availability of nuclear plant in France eased power supply worries.
Head of German industry group calls for scrapping Kyoto treaty
He said in an internal paper that the the protocol cannot achieve its goals on climate change. He said the US administration's approach, which is aimed at developing technology and including China and India in greenhouse gas reductions, is a better approach.
Loud 'No' to Coal Power in Taranaki
Coal is the most carbon-intensive fossil fuel, emitting 72% more carbon dioxide per unit of energy than gas.
"From mine to sky, it contaminates every step of the way. From acid drainage from coal mines polluting rivers and streams, to the release of cancer-causing dioxins and other toxins when it is burned, as well as pollution-forming gases and fine particulates that wreak havoc on human health, coal is a dirty business."
Malaysian Firemen Help Indonesia To Fight Blazes
Malaysia sent a team of 100 firemen to neighbouring Indonesia on Monday to help
douse forest fires that have blanketed the region in noxious haze.
The fires, many deliberately lit on Indonesia's Sumatra island to clear
land for agriculture, are once again testing relations between the two
Southeast Asian neighbours after the smoke caused Malaysia's worst
pollution crisis in eight years.
Mysterious Reptile Evades Capture in L.A. Park
A mysterious, alligator-like creature that surfaced in a Los Angeles suburb has eluded capture for nearly a week, shrewdly passing up raw chicken bait and dodging reptile wranglers in pontoon boats.
North Dakota Starts Draining Lake into Canada
The U.S. diversion plan has been a diplomatic sore point because of Canadian concerns the water could pollute Manitoba's Lake Winnipeg, Canada fears the land-locked lake contains high concentrations of salts and other pollutants along with foreign fish and organisms.
Northern Lights shift further northward
The Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights as they are popularly known, have moved north over the last two centuries.
• Aurora produce intricate blue or green patterns in the night sky at
heights of 80 to 100km, well above clouds. The aurora borealis can
sometimes be seen on clear nights in the northern UK and Scandinavia.
Aurorae in the southern part of the UK are rare.
• Knowledge of the aurora provides scientists with information about the
activity of the sun, and the Earth’s magnetic field. Changes in the sun
have been suggested to produce small changes in weather and climate.
NRC rejects Nevada petition to change 1990 waste decision
That Waste Confidence finding stated that the commission believed there was reasonable assurance that at least one mined geologic repository would be available by 2025.
OPEC cuts estimates of 2005 and 2006 non-OPEC crude production
The oil producer group, in its Monthly Oil Market report, cited a combination of "slightly improved expectations in Brazil and the loss of production in India following the accident in the Bombay High field" in July.
Outage Affects Unit 2 at TEP's Springerville Generating Station
A Tucson Electric Power (TEP) generating unit has been taken
out of service in an unplanned outage that may last between three
and six weeks.
Powerful Quake Hits Northern Japan; Small Tsunami Reported, Buildings Collapse
A powerful magnitude 7.2 earthquake struck northeastern Japan on Tuesday and injured at least 60 people, triggering a small tsunami, sending debris crashing into a crowded swimming pool and shaking skyscrapers as far away as Tokyo.
Rain-Sodden Swedes Consoled By Mushroom Mania
This summer's weather has been disastrous for sun lovers who normally retreat to Sweden's islands to swim and mess about in boats. But the hot, dry start to the summer followed by persistent clouds and rain was perfect for fungi.
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 081705
Solar activity was very low. Solar activity is expected to be very low with a
slight chance for an isolated C-flare from Region 797. The geomagnetic field is expected to
remain at unsettled to active levels on 17 August.
Activity should gradually decline on 18 August and should be quiet to
unsettled by 19 August as the coronal hole high speed stream moves out of
geoeffective position.
Setback for electronic waste plan
A Europe-wide regulation designed to minimise the level of harmful waste produced by electronic and electrical products and encourage more sustainable production in the industry has been dealt a setback with the news that its implementation will be delayed.
Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger unveiled a
program last August to establish a self-sufficient solar industry in 10
years by encouraging installation of solar panel systems in 1 million
homes.
The program -- currently at the top of the docket for California
legislators -- could reduce carbon emissions equivalent to 850,000 cars
each year, according to the Department of Energy.
NASA has a revolutionary vision for Hangar One, the toxics-coated hulk that once housed a dirigible at Mountain View's Moffett Field: Wrap the 200-foot-high landmark with a solar-paneled skin that pumps out electricity.
SPACE WEATHER ADVISORY OUTLOOK 05- 33
Outlook For August 17-23
Category G1 – (minor) geomagnetic storm periods are possible on 17 August due to
high speed solar winds from a coronal hole on the Sun.
Spanish Surfers' Paradise Loses its Wave
Where once a powerful wave created by a sand bar curled into a long fast-moving tube, the sea is now calm like the Mediterranean. Instead of surfers, sailing boats and canoes dot the clear blue water.
State Seeks to Slash Mercury Emissions With New Rules
The Pennsylvania state Department of Environmental Protection is moving
forward with plans to rein in mercury emissions, a byproduct of
coal-fired power plants that is most dangerous to pregnant women
and fetuses.
Survey Shows Costs of Energy Conservation Going Down
In 1991, the average price tag for conserving a megawatt of electricity was $3.9 million. Today, that same megawatt can be had for $1.6 million. (A megawatt is enough power to light 10,000 100- watt light bulbs continuously for one year.)
Tohoku steps up gas-fired power output as quake shuts nuke units
The powerful earthquake, which measured 6.8 on the Richter scale, shut all three of Tohoku's nuclear power production units with a total generating capacity of 2.174-mil kW at the Onagawa plant.
US retail regular retail gasoline setting new highs daily: AAA
"Whilst the Iranian threat to cut oil exports [due to ongoing western pressure over its nuclear programme] is not affecting the market, more noises along those lines should drive prices up, especially ahead of the peak in the US Gulf hurricane season," one IPE player said.
August 16, 2005
Advocates hope credit moves solar power beyond niche
The U.S. solar power industry is about to enjoy a moment in the sun.
Biogen Idec plant gives hope for 'green power'
When Biogen Idec Inc. opens a sixth building at its Kendall Square campus this winter, there will be something unusual in the basement: a power plant big enough to light up 4,000 homes.
Now, Biogen Idec is the first company to take advantage of new state rules
Canada seen playing energy card in lumber dispute with US
Prime Minister Paul Martin is expected to speak directly to President George W. Bush this week and warn him that oil and natural gas could become a weapon in the 23-year dispute.
Ceres Power to Provide Fuel Cells for British Gas
"green" domestic boilers that will be capable of providing household electricity as well as heat for hot water and central heating. The new boilers, powered by Ceres' fuel cells, have the potential to reduce household energy bills and cut carbon-dioxide emissions.
Dental Mercury Found in Wastewater
republished from ArizonaWaterResource Mar-Apr 03)
Backers of an Arizona bill restricting dentists' use of mercury fillings say the law would protect the health of children, pregnant women and nursing mothers. Although not touted as a benefit of the legislation, reduced mercury use also might have an environmental pay off.
ECD Announces Plans to Open Ohio Testing Facility
The testing laboratory will have the capability to test and certify Ovonic metal hydride storage containers for use with portable fuel cell generators, on-board storage of hydrogen for internal combustion engine and fuel cell vehicles, and for solid hydrogen dispensing stations to refill canisters and vehicles, and other stationary uses.
Education reform elevates status of Navajo-controlled education
While state lawmakers in the Southwest have succeeded in passing English-only legislation, the Navajo Nation Council passed the Dine' Sovereignty in Education Act to encourage Dine' language and culture in schools on the Navajo Nation.
Federal energy bill, economic opportunity or Bush's fire sale
Critics of the new federal energy bill point out that it provides billions in tax incentives to industries, while reviving the nuclear industry intent on dumping radioactive waste on Indian lands. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has already approved in situ uranium mining on the borders of the Navajo Nation, which banned uranium mining and processing in April.
Forecasts Raised for Busy US Hurricane Season
Tropical Storm Risk, a London-based storm forecaster, raised its outlook for hurricane activity in the Atlantic this year by 30 percent from its July outlook on the expectation of higher-than-normal sea temperatures and winds in the region.
Hardliner Larijani to run Iran's nuclear policy
the European Union on the former's nuclear program.
Indian president urges cut in fossil fuel use
President Abdul Kalam urged Indians to reduce dependence on oil, gas and coal imports and rely instead on cleaner and cheaper energy sources to power its booming economy.
Iraq's oil output steady at 2.22-mil bd for week-ended Aug 7
Judge to rule on US global warming case within a couple of months
Midwest drought slows barge deliveries to coal-fired power plants
Are you looking for a modern-day warrior society? Try the Native American Rights Fund's 13 attorneys, support staff, board of directors, the national Indian legal defense fund and, most recently, the Tribal Supreme Court Project that NARF was asked to lead.
Netherlands Nuclear Plant is the Model for N.M.
Herald Voschezang says New Mexicans need not fret over stored waste from Louisiana Energy Services' proposed $1.2 billion nuclear fuel factory in Lea County.
New law will reward us for saving energy
Although the media have widely criticized the president for not doing enough to save energy, this new tax law generated few headlines. Energy-efficient homes: The new tax law allows a home builder to receive up to $2,000 in tax credits for building an energy-efficient home during the next two years.
Nuclear Energy Back in Vogue, but Waste Disposal a Super-Heated Issue
But critics say there's one major problem with nuclear power: The highly radioactive waste created as a result of fission, the atom-splitting process that releases the energy of nuclear power.
"We have no idea what to do with it."
Power-hungry world embraces nuclear energy
In the United States, plans are on the drawing board to build as many as six new power plants - the first since 1973 - while hundreds more are under consideration in China, India, Russia and other countries. With worries about terrorism now paramount in the minds of the public and political leaders, concerns about safety that haunted nuclear utilities for decades appear to have receded, replaced by increasing confidence that after a half-century of operating without causing a major public health hazard in the United States, nuclear plants have by and large proven to be safe.
Rains Bring Relief to Burkina Farmers after Drought
Aid agencies estimate 500,000 people in Burkina Faso are still facing food shortages after crops were ravaged by drought and locusts that also struck neighbouring Niger -- the worst-hit country in West Africa -- as well as Mali and Mauritania.
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 081505
Solar activity was at very low levels. Solar activity is expected to be at very low levels. The geomagnetic field is expected to be at predominantly unsettled to minor storm levels. Isolated major storming may be possible on 16 and 17 August due to a recurrent high speed coronal hole stream.
SRP Signs Gila River Water-Rights Settlement
Arizona Water Settlements Act, legislation that would settle the landmark case involving Arizona water rights as well as the repayment obligation owed to the federal government by Arizona for construction of the Central Arizona Project.
State Legislators to Promote Solutions to Soaring Gas Prices, Nation's Energy Problems
The Apollo Alliance has a 10-step national agenda to create energy independence by the year 2015, representing a coalition of national security, labor, environmental, civil rights and business leaders.
As Congress negotiated the energy bill last month, Governors from across the country urged President Bush in an open letter to lead a national project to achieve energy independence within a decade.
UN Report Ranks Nations' Water Quantity Quality
United States rated 2nd in water availability and 12th in water quality.
US July Consumer Price Index climbs 0.5 percent, led by energy costs
Within energy, the petroleum-based index jumped 6.1%, which accounted for more than half of the advance in the overall index. The index for energy rose 19.4% in the first seven months of 2005 compared to 16.6% in all of 2004.
It's just a single incident, but with pundits saying water will be to the 21st century what oil was to the 20th, there's no time like the present - whether you live in the parched American West or elsewhere on the planet - to get a handle on the way things work.
August 15, 2005
Air Pollution Hits Emergency Level in Malaysian Port Town from Indonesian Forest Haze
Air pollution exceeded emergency levels in two Malaysian towns Thursday as a smoky haze from forest fires in Indonesia shrouded Kuala Lumpur and its suburbs in a pall of noxious fumes in the country's worst environmental crisis since 1997.
Big Plans for Small Wind Farms; Single Turbine Approach Avoids Approval Turbulence
While large wind farms in Wisconsin face major regulatory and environmental hurdles, Ed Ritger is breezing along one wind turbine at a time.
Bodman says more work 'remains to be done' to bolster power grid
The blackout led to a commitment by the US and Canadian governments and the utility industry to prevent future outages. The new law, he added, will help by making utility compliance with reliability standards mandatory and enforceable.
Coal-Based Fuel Cells A Giant Leap for Fuel Cell Technology
The Department of Energy today announced the first two projects selected under the Department’s new Fuel Cell Coal-Based Systems program. The projects will be conducted by two research teams—one led by General Electric Hybrid Power Generations Systems and the other by Siemens Westinghouse Power Corporation—and they share the same goal: to develop the fuel cell technology required for central power stations to produce affordable, efficient, environmentally-friendly electricity from coal.
There's a coming shortage of qualified candidates in the utility sector. It's a potential problem that could spell trouble. But it's also an opportunity. If successful, not only would the utility sector be able to attract talented individuals but it could also change its staid image to one of excitement and vitality.
DOE Outlines Research Needed to Improve Solar Energy Technologies
To help achieve the Bush Administration's goal of increased use of solar and other renewable forms of energy, the Department of Energy's (DOE) Office of Science has released a report describing the basic research needed to produce "revolutionary progress in bringing solar energy to its full potential in the energy marketplace."
Dutch Rush to Produce Biofuel as Oil Prices Surge
Projects to produce biofuels made of rapeseed have mushroomed in the Netherlands this year as the country rushes to meet targets to boost cleaner fuels and reduce dependence on expensive crude oil imports.
Engineers Modify Hybrid Cars To Get Up To 250 MPG
Politicians and automakers say a car that can both reduce
greenhouse gases and free America from its reliance on foreign oil is years or
even decades away.
Ron Gremban says such a car is parked in his garage.
Fuel cells bring clean power to rural areas
A town of Tompkins resident is getting free electricity for a year while his home is used to test an alternative method of delivering power.An experimental fuel cell/energy storage project by the Delaware County Electric Cooperative was described Thursday during a kickoff celebration.
In Iceland, pollution-free technologies provide example
A few days after the U.S. Congress approved an $85-billion energy bill late last month that critics decried as loaded with giveaways to the fossil-fuel industry and stingy on renewable resource funding and energy conservation, the largest field test of hydrogen-powered municipal buses was wrapping up across Europe.
Independent news agency set to launch in Iraq
A fledging internet news service developed by the Reuters Foundation and supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Spanish Agency for International Cooperation (AECI) has been given the green light to become Iraq’s first independent and commercially viable news agency, run and staffed by Iraqi journalists.
Indonesia Fires Burn, Malaysia Chokes
A choking haze from fires, most of them in Indonesia, is blanketing large parts of peninsular Malaysia, creating health problems, threatening tourism and disrupting one of the world's busiest shipping lanes.
Ion America wants to bring the fuel cell to your home
a deal the city is trying to strike with a fuel-cell company called Ion America to pilot the technology in Chattanooga. "It is a distributive model," Corker told me. "It can use natural gas to produce hydrogen." He wants the company to not just pilot the fuel cell in Chattanooga but eventually manufacture it there as well.
Judge Reluctant To Create Judicial Oversight of Global Warming
A federal judge expressed reluctance about beginning judicial oversight of pollution issues that affect global warming as she heard arguments Friday in a complaint brought by eight states against some of the nation's largest power companies.
Markets Don't Fix Power Lines; People Do, How Utility Deregulation Helped Cause 2003 Blackout
"Deregulation and the restructuring of the electric power industry in the U.S. have had a devastating effect on the reliability of North American power systems, and constitute the ultimate root cause of the August 14, 2003 blackout." That is the conclusion of a report issued by three experts on electric power systems and reliability on the second anniversary of the most devastating blackout ever to strike the North American continent.
Oil price touches $66 under pressure from speculators
Analysts put the jump down to speculative buying, high global demand and continued refinery outages in the United States, while the International Energy Agency cited low spare production capacity in the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries as a major factor behind soaring prices.
Pollution Suit Brought Against Power Firms
Residents of Ontario, Canada, have brought a lawsuit against 13 major U.S. and Canadian power companies seeking $50 billion to compensate them for alleged pollution damage from the companies' power plants.
The wind can provide electricity, but it doesn't blow consistently. Enter hydrogen, another energy producer. CHARLES MANDEL reports on PEI's plan to build a village that will run on the combination of the two.
"People seem to have done what they want for the September contract, with many people waiting for October to pick up. Levels should remain high. The market is highly sensitive to news of refinery outages, with no supply shortages on crude."
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 081505
Solar activity was at very low levels. Solar activity is expected to be at very low levels. The geomagnetic field is expected to be at quiet to unsettled levels. Active conditions may be possible late on 16 August due to the onset of a recurrent high speed coronal hole stream.
South Korea announces plan for hydrogen-based economy
South Korea aims to become a functioning hydrogen economy by 2040, with a sizeable part of its transportation, power generation and household appliances operating on eco-friendly fuel cells, the government said Friday [12 August].
Studies provide 'compelling evidence' of global warming US DOE
Taxpayers Face Pounds 56bn Bill for Clean-Up of Nuclear Sites
The cost of dismantling and cleaning up Britain's civil nuclear power stations and infrastructure has escalated by pounds 8bn to at least pounds 56bn, the organisation given the task reported yesterday.
UniSource Energy Looks to Sell Off Global Solar Unit
Turning sunshine into revenue has been more difficult than expected for Global Solar Energy.
The flexible solar material can be used to make backpacks that function as solar-power generators. That appeals to customers like the U.S. Army, which awarded a $1 million contract to Global Solar in June to help soldiers power electronic equipment in the field.
But Global Solar is continuing to lose money. UniSource is now throwing in the towel and is actively seeking to sell Global Solar.
US BLM extends comment period on Alaska reserve development
deadline was Aug 26.
Westinghouse may begin demolition of plant this year
Kevin Hayes, an environmental manager for Westinghouse, says the company is removing equipment from the plant and securing the licenses and permits necessary to demolish the buildings. Hayes says the plan is to tear the buildings down to the concrete foundations to more accurately determine what, if any, contamination is located beneath the concrete slabs.
Will Climate Wake Up Call Be Answered?
Mounting evidence ranging from Siberia to Alaska and reports by geoscientists and nomadic herdsman confirm that land frozen for thousands of years has begun to thaw. Currently in western Siberia, frozen peat bogs cover an area the size of France and Germany combined and contain billions of tons of methane, a potent greenhouse gas. The western Siberian sub-arctic region has begun to melt. Tero Mustonen, an arctic climate researcher and director of the organization Snow Change based in Finland, expressed "concern and alarm" when informed of reports of melting permafrost in Western Siberia. Though climate change develops over decades — not days or weeks or a few years, as depicted by Hollywood — once set in motion (as it already has) climate change is difficult to control or offset, much less reverse.
August 12, 2005
A Cool Idea, How Retailers Can Beat the Heat and Save Energy
With temperatures soaring, energy use rising and the second anniversary of the Blackout that affected 50 million people across North America quickly approaching, Retail Council of Canada is encouraging all small, mid- and large retailers to do their part by conserving energy to avoid blackouts and help the environment at the same time.
ACC Acts to Create Statewide Interconnection Standards for DG
Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) Staff recently held a workshop to consider outstanding issues concerning distributed generation (DG), including DG interconnection, net metering, rate design and the establishment of a program to encourage the installation of self-generation equipment. The workshop, held July 8, 2005, addressed DG interconnection, and proposed using Texas's interconnection standard as a model.
ASIA - Developing Countries to Dominate Growth in World Energy Consumption
Worldwide energy consumption is projected to grow by 57% between 2002 and 2025. The report shows strongest growth in energy consumption among the emerging economies of the world, especially in Asia (including China and India), where robust economic growth drives the increase in energy use over the projection period. Energy use among emerging economies more than doubles over the forecast period.
California could provide most of its additional renewables in-state
A 20% target in California’s Renewable Portfolio Standard will require 28,969 GWh of new green power to be added each year, of which 85% can be met by local resources that require little increase in new transmission lines.
CANADA - Country Joins International Methane-Reduction Effort
The Canadian government has announced that it will join 15 other nations to cut emissions of methane by using the gas to generate heat and power rather than letting it escape into the atmosphere. By 2015 the Methane to Markets Partnership has the potential to deliver annual reductions in methane emissions of up to 50 million metric tons of carbon equivalent or recovery of 500 billion cubic feet of natural gas, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Cooling and Climate Control with Biomass
In Germany, the energy production from biomass currently booms. Until today, most installed plants produce heat, but it is also technically possible to generate cooling energy – a large market potential!
Embattled mortgage giant Fannie Mae
Embattled mortgage giant Fannie Mae said it likely will not complete the reworking of its accounting, ordered by federal regulators
Energy Bill Includes Most Significant Changes to Energy Law in 70 Years, Kelliher Says
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) Chairman Joseph Kelliher has stated that the federal energy bill's provisions involve the most significant changes since the Federal Power Act of 1935 and the Natural Gas Act of 1938.
EPA looks ahead 1 million years in Yucca plan; Nevada officials say future radiation levels too high
The EU is likely to reach only a third of its 2010 target to have 100-mil square meters (about 70,000MW of heat) of installed solar thermal capacity, despite the market growing for the third year in a row
European power use rises 1.7 percent
Mainland Europe used 1.7% more power last year, less than in 2003 on mild weather conditions. Generation capacity increased by 4%, mainly on a rise in combined cycle plants and renewable sources of up to 20%.
European research project shows promise for renewable energy hydrogen
The technology uses the 64 concentrating mirrors at Weizmann’s facility in Rehovot to heat zinc oxide to 1,200 degrees Celcius in the presence of wood charcoal. The process splits the ore, releasing oxygen and creating gaseous zinc, which then is condensed to a powder. The zinc powder will react with water to yield hydrogen for use as a fuel
Global Warming May Take Economic Toll
The world's richest economy is also its biggest carbon dioxide emitter,
pushing out 5.8 billion metric tons in 2003. China, in second place,
emitted 3.5 billion, with all of Western Europe at 3.9 billion.
U.S. emissions are projected to keep rising, despite plans to lower
carbon intensity, or use per unit of economic growth.
The White House wants cuts to be voluntary and resists measures that
would impose restrictions on output of such gases as carbon dioxide and
nitrous oxide, seen as culprits behind global warming, saying this would
hurt economic growth.
Grids need major adjustments to cope with renewables
Until now the integration of wind power into the European synchronous power grids could be managed without serious problems due to extra operational and technical measures taken by TSOs when wind power generation peaked
Leaf to Bud: Pssst, It's Time to Flower
Scientists have long known that it is the amount of sunshine that makes the difference. Now they have figured out how the leaves signal the flowers to form.
Michigan joins with 14 other states to stop EPA's mercury rule
National Coalition Formed to Promote Wind Energy, Address Disinformation
Wind Energy Works! will actively and aggressively engage in the public conversation over the merits of wind energy, educate the public about the benefits of wind-energy development, and act as a counterbalance to the misinformation spread by wind-energy opponents in communities across the country.
NDA to clean up all its sites, but cost estimates have risen
New NY Law Sets Energy Efficiency Standards for Household Appliances, Electronic Equipment
"This new law will set higher energy efficiency standards for many consumer and commercial appliances, which will lower the overall energy demand in the state, reduce energy costs for consumers, and improve air quality for all New Yorkers.
Officials Discover Giant Waterfall in California National Park
The 92-year-old used to earn a meager living mining the creeks that
meander through the deeply wooded hills. He has slogged through the
brush and hiked overgrown logging roads, hunting deer and gathering wood
for his homemade fiddles.
But McDermott says he's never laid eyes on the nearly 400-foot waterfall
that park officials recently discovered in a remote corner of the
Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, 43,000 acres of wilderness in
northern California.
Oil prices sizzle as Iran raises nuclear stakes
Platinum looks to all time highs as dollar slide continues
"Like gold, platinum is now looking to target its all-time high of $942/oz with interim resistance pegged at $932-937/oz."
Protesters Oppose Plan to Divert Water from Utah-Nevada Valley for Use in Las Vegas
The Southern Nevada Water Authority wants to drill wells on the Nevada
side of the valley and use a 500-mile pipe network to send the water to
Las Vegas.
The proposal calls for a yearly withdrawal of 25,000 acre-feet, and the
water authority says studies show as much as 100,000 acre-feet of water
is available annually in aquifers under the valley.
Renewables in U.S. to be constrained under supportive legislation
New federal legislation in the United States will increase the capacity of solar PV by 48 MW by 2010 but, overall, growth will be lower with the supportive legislation, according to the Department of Energy.
Researchers Share Results of Massive Air Study
Aboard a DC-8 loaded with instruments, she and other researchers trolled the sky for 10 hours a day, measuring the atmosphere. During six weeks, the plane, based out of Portsmouth's Pease Airport, covered every U.S. state east of the Mississippi.
SEIA Praises Signing of Energy Bill
"For the first time since 1985, homeowners who install solar energy systems will receive a tax credit worth 30 percent of the system cost, capped at $2,000. Businesses that purchase solar equipment will also receive a credit worth 30 percent of the system cost.
US DOE provides $15-mil to coal-based, fuel-cell projects
The first two financial awards under a program that supports research leading to the development of large coal-fired power plants that use fuel cells rather than combustion units.
Victorville picked to host solar station
Southern California Edison and Phoenix-based Stirling Energy Systems announced an agreement Tuesday to create the 4,500-acre solar-generating station with construction likely to begin in 2008 and be completed by 2011 on land leased from the U.S. Bureau of Land Management.
VIRGINIA ; DATA ON IMPACT SOUGHT FOR NUCLEAR-STATION PLAN
The letter cites state and federal certifications required to protect coastal zones and water quality. Dominion has said that those approvals are not needed.
Weather Balloons' 1970s Design Caused Climate Spat
A dispute over whether global warming is really happening may
have been caused by the placement of sensors on weather balloons when studies
were done in the 1970s, researchers said Thursday.
Very few scientists now dispute that the Earth's temperature is rising,
and that this is caused by human activity, including burning fossil
fuels such as coal and oil.
World averages 13.3 of primary energy from renewables
Five countries in the world obtain more than half of their renewable energy from non-hydro and non-biomass technologies.
Israel leads the world with 98.4% of its renewable energy coming from solar, wind, geothermal or tidal energy,
August 11, 2005
AEC Completes First Live Demonstration
In addition to producing on-demand hydrogen in front of the
crowd, the unit demonstrated its ability to power a small generator at idle and
under load. AEC's proprietary discovery in metallurgy permits a small-scale
unit to generate hydrogen from an aqueous solution through a "green" system
at a price competitive with the current fossil fuel kWh cost of energy.
Airlines face growing risk of fuel shortages at busy airports
While fliers haven't yet had to add that problem to the list of headaches associated with air travel, it may not be far away. Airports in Arizona, California, Florida and Nevada recently came within a few days -- and at times within hours -- of running out of jet fuel.
Breakthrough in solar photovoltaics
THE HOLY Grail of researchers in the field of solar photovoltaic (SPV) electricity is to generate it at a lower cost than that of grid electricity. The goal now seems to be within reach.
China Frets over Swing from Power Crunch to Glut
China may have more power than it needs in just two years, as runaway construction to prevent a repeat of last year's crippling electricity shortages turns a crunch into oversupply, officials said on Wednesday.
Clean energy partnership outlines goals
DEP hasn't written required mining 'mitigation' reports
For the last five years, state regulators have ignored a legislative mandate to produce an annual report on their mining "mitigation" deals with coal operators.
EU Blames Drought, Human Negligence for Rise in Forest Fires in Southern Europe
Drought and human negligence are to blame for the recent rise in forest fires across Europe, the European Union's head office said Wednesday, warning the situation in southern Europe remained precarious.
Europe to face substantial diesel deficit by 2015 Woodmac
India to Promote Increased Use of Gas-Run Vehicles
India plans to increase the use of compressed natural gas (CNG) in vehicles to reduce pollution from petrol and diesel fumes, but sales are limited to only a few cities as India has a shortage of natural gas.
IPE Brent loses ground after setting fresh record above $64 bbl
LNG firms to skip St. Andrews forum
Oklahoma-based Quoddy Bay LLC has people in this seaside community scratching their heads now that company officials have said they would not appear before the public later this month because of "security concerns."
Long Beach has final say in LNG
the energy bill, while granting the federal government more power over liquefied natural gas terminals like one proposed in the Port of Long Beach, still gives the port final say over the project, he said.
Nevada to sue EPA if proposed Yucca Mt. standard finalized
Nevada Attorney General Brian Sandoval called the proposed 1-million-year radiation protection standard for a nuclear waste repository at Yucca Mountain, Nev. "obscenely lax and dangerous."
New US highway bill gives tax breaks for alternative fuels
Renewable fuels backed in Rural Poll Government encouragement can help, Nebraskans say in survey
Rural Nebraskans strongly support renewable fuels, according to the 2005 Rural Poll, even though using such energy could cost more money.
A high percentage of rural Nebraskans, 89 percent, who responded to the survey agreed or strongly agreed that the government should encourage the use of renewable energy sources.
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 081105
Solar activity is expected to be very low. The geomagnetic field is expected to be at quiet to unsettled levels with isolated active periods possible.
Snow Falls on Australian Beaches and Mountains
In a once in a 20-year event, snow fell on the southern island state of Tasmania, on beaches and mountains in the state of Victoria, on farms recovering from severe drought in New South Wales state and on the national parliament in Canberra.
Developments are under way that could wipe batteries off the face of the Earth. They have made significant breakthroughs in a power source that essentially turns 20 pounds of batteries into 8 ounces of fuel the size of a cigarette lighter. Mr. Drost said the system is not pie in the sky; a usable unit will be ready in three to five years.
Tension builds as Iran brings key nuclear plant on line
One of the biggest arguments against using hydrogen as an alternate source of energy is that it costs a lot more than energy derived from fossil fuels—coal, oil, and natural gas.
But what's the real cost of using these sources of energy once damage to the environment has been factored in?
UK households could save a massive £6bn on bills if certain energy efficiency measures were implemented, says the Energy Savings Trust (EST). Individual households could save as much as £250 with the simple changes, according to the report.
UK’s renewable drive adds pace
"Over the past year, the percentage of electricity generated from renewables has grown at a record rate and new wind developments such as the fifteen turbines here near Stranraer look set to continue that trend. I have been very impressed at the renewable energy industry's commitment to our target of 10% by 2010
Uranium producers rush to reopen mines
However, China, India and other developing countries have committed to nuclear power as fossil fuel prices soared and global warming concerns increased.
US Energy Bill ‘fails on oil issue’
“Congress refused to enact a responsible increase in motor vehicle fuel economy standards, the single most important step we could take to reduce oil dependence. Our elected representatives could not even bring themselves to include mild language in the bill calling for a plan to cut oil consumption a mere 5% by 2015.
Waves of Jellyfish Invade Spanish Beaches
Warmer than usual coastal waters encourage the creatures to venture closer to shore, in search of lower salt concentrations and nutrients in urban waste water and agricultural run-off.
World's biggest biodiesel plant launches today
Cargill Inc. will break ground today in Iowa Falls for the world's largest biodiesel plant, expected to churn out 37.5 million gallons of fuel a year. It will use soybeans, all bought from area farmers, said Bill Brady, spokesman for the Minnesota company.
August 10, 2005
Air Texans Breathe Being Polluted by 'Accident'
The pollution is hitting the communities of Corpus Christi and Port Arthur particularly hard, where refineries operated by San Antonio-based Valero Energy Corp., Flint Hills Resources, Motiva Enterprises, BASF Corp. and TOTAL Petrochemicals were cited as being among the biggest offenders, according to the report by the Washington-based Public Citizen advocacy group.
Astralux Develops a Portable UVX-Ray Biodecontamination Unit
Australia, China to Begin Formal Uranium Talks
Australia plans to begin formal talks on a pact to allow China to buy uranium for its growing energy needs, while ensuring the mineral is not used to build weapons, Foreign Minister Alexander Downer said on Tuesday.
Bulgaria's Flood Death Toll Rises to Seven
The floods, caused by several days of exceptionally heavy rain, added to extensive destruction caused by storms earlier this summer that killed 17 people and led to at least another $250 million in damage.
Bush: Energy bill brightens future
At a bill-signing ceremony at the Energy Department's Sandia National Laboratories, Bush said the new energy policy will go a long way toward weaning Americans off imported oil by encouraging the domestic production of oil and natural gas and greater use of cleaner-burning, domestic energy sources such as nuclear power, ethanol and liquefied natural gas.
Cities Win Fight Over MTBE Provisions in the Energy Bill
Clean Coal Developers Eye Oil Imports
While energy shortages, pollution and high prices may seem never-ending, one thing may serve to facilitate new solutions: good-ole ingenuity and especially as it relates to alternative fuel development. The United States is increasing its dependence on foreign oil and all at a time when its own production is down sharply for the previous two decades by 40 percent.
Congress Approves Funding for Hydrogen Bus Program
Congress has approved and provided $49 million in funding for a competitive four-year hydrogen and fuel cell bus research and development program, the National Fuel Cell Bus Technology Development Program, as a component of the $287 billion Transportation Equity Act of 2005.
An international crisis looms this week after Iran rejected a package of incentives offered by the European Union in return for abandoning its nuclear programme.
DayStar Supports Solar Provision in US Energy Bill
Praised a recently passed US energy bill for providing a 30-percent tax credit for business or residential purchases of PV equipment.
Electric Deregulation Termed Work in Progress
Energy Education Needed to Avert Conflict in the Rocky Mountains
The largest growth area for natural-gas development in the
United States continues to be the Rocky Mountains.
Some of the fastest-growing states in the nation also are in the Rocky
Mountains.
Environmental Group Seeks Limits on Mercury
"We believe the threat to public health is well-documented," said Jan
Jarrett, vice president of the organization, also known as PennFuture.
Mercury is a neurotoxin that builds up in the food chain after it is
released into the air when coal is burned. Fish are the primary way that
humans are exposed to mercury, and those most vulnerable include
pregnant women and young children.
EPA proposes two-tiered radiation standard for Yucca Mtn.
Euro rivals cut off gas pipeline
We in the UK have benefited from plentiful supplies of gas on our doorstep in the North Sea. It has heated our homes, powered our industries and supported our balance of payments. But now we are entering a new era for energy as North Sea reserves start to decline and the UK becomes reliant on imported gas.
Fuel Cells Taking Some Heat Off the New York Power Grid
With regular 90-degree temperatures scorching the state this summer and energy usage reaching record levels, New York has been using technology often perceived as futuristic to help handle the power demand and fortify its reputation as an alternative energy leader. The 30 stationary fuel cell power plants delivered by UTC Power to sites throughout the state for more than 12 years are approaching three-quarters of a million combined hours of operation, or the equivalent of 81 years of operating time.
Global Green USA to Unveil Climate Solutions for Communities
Global Green USA will release its Climate Change Report, "Community Development through Climate Solutions," and detail some of its key findings that demonstrate ways to combat climate change while aiding community development.
Grad Student Believes Wood May Replace Oil
A University of Idaho graduate student believes the answer to the world's crude oil crisis grows on trees. Juan Andres Soria says he has developed a process that turns wood into bio-oil, a substance similar to crude oil.
Herbicide-Resistant Weed Plagues California
Horseweed was once merely a nuisance to farmers -- hard to pull
out, quick to sprout back after cutting, and capable of towering over tractors.
Now, it's becoming a full-blown nightmare worthy of an agricultural
horror flick: scientists in California have found clusters of the weed
that are resistant to scores of herbicides, leaving farmers to fight an
increasingly formidable and costly foe.
IEA says Australia's planned solutions on global warming may be inadequate
The International Energy Agency (IEA) warned Australia that its plan to curb global warming with technology-based solutions is inadequate and urged Canberra to consider an emissions trading scheme.
Kentucky to evaluate retreat mining in wake of fatal accidents
"New regulations or statutes may, or may not, be a part of the answer. But it is time to re-examine retreat mining to ensure these operations are being conducted as safely as possible and determine if the human costs are too great a price to pay to extract a few more tons of coal."
Construction of a massive, 4,500-acre solar generating station in Southern California. When completed, the proposed power station would be the world's largest solar facility, capable of producing more electricity than all other U.S. solar projects combined.
Manila rushes energy efficiency measures amid soaring prices
New Federal Law Offers Tax Credits for Energy-Efficient Purchases
The energy bill won't lower the cost
of your fill-up anytime soon. And it probably won't cut the nation's
dependence on foreign oil.
But through tax breaks and other subsidies, the legislation that
President Bush signed into law Monday encourages conservation and the
development of emerging energy technologies.
New Research Ties Arsenic in Drinking Water to Tumor Growth
New Study Demonstrates Benefits of Sustainable Forestry Certification
A new study demonstrates that independent, third-party certification for
environmentally and socially sustainable management of timberlands has led to
vital, measurable improvements in the protection of forests, wildlife and
stakeholder rights worldwide as well as to the long-term economic viability of
forestry operations.
No Recent Major Nuclear Failures in Russia
The Russian Federal Service for the Oversight of the Ecology, Technology and Nuclear Management said that the number of failures at nuclear plants dropped to 46 in 2004 from 51 in 2003. None of the failures involved radiation release.
Pennsylvania Addresses Safety of Drinking Water Treatment Chemicals
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 081005
Solar activity has been very low. No new sunspot regions were numbered. The geomagnetic field was at quiet to unsettled levels.
Sanyo Electric Develops Hydrofluoric Acid Wastewater Recycling System
Scientists Drill Into San Andreas Fault
The scientists, who began drilling in 2004, finally entered the fault zone about two miles below the surface of the Earth on Tuesday. The entire borehole will be covered with steel and cement at the end of the month so scientists can later install instruments to measure future temblors.
SPACE WEATHER ADVISORY OUTLOOK 05- 32
August radio blackouts occurred due to solar flare activity from NOAA sunspot Regions 792 and 794. Outlook For August 10-16. Category G1 – (minor) geomagnetic storm periods are possible on 16 August due to high speed solar winds from a coronal hole on the Sun.
The New White House Orthodoxy: Green Is Good
The Kyoto Protocol? Darling, that was so last century. Even the Japanese, who founded it, have moved on to the next big thing. The plastic wristbands aren't yet printed, but the new logo is ready: growth is green.
The sweet road to energy security
President George W. Bush’s statement at the G8 summit that “the United States, for national security reasons and dependence on foreign oil must be curbed. What is less clear from the President’s remark is how he plans to achieve this goal. If the President is looking for a way to do so, other than the much touted hydrogen economy, he should take a look at Brazil’s track record.
They're Blowing Hot and Cold on Wind Farms
One of the greenest forms of energy -- wind power -- is picking up opposition from the very people you might expect to champion it: environmentalists.
US EIA sees continued strength in gas storage inventories
working gas in storage totaled roughly 2.42 Tcf at the end of July, 2.2% higher than last year
US EPA Proposes Yucca Mountain Nuclear Exposure Limits
The Bush administration Tuesday proposed limiting radiation from a proposed nuclear waste dump in the Nevada desert for 1 million years to satisfy a court order that threatened to derail the project.
US power generation rises 13.9% on year to 92,697 GWh EEI
The largest rise in output was reported for the third week running in the Central Industrial region, where output rose 18.6%
Utility Bills Figure into Debate on Coal Plant
June and Charlie Gray have barely paid attention to the debate about whether Tallahassee should be involved in a proposed coal-fired power plant in North Florida.
August 9, 2005
Acehnese Women Rediscover Role in Society
Women once ruled the defunct Sultanate of Aceh whose history speaks of women admirals and matriliny. But after the principality merged into a larger Indonesia in 1949, women became marginalised and it took a devastating tsunami for them to rediscover their traditionally dominant role in Acehnese society.
Britons Prefer Wind Farms to Reactors
Britons would rather have renewable energy sources such as wind farms than new nuclear power stations to meet future energy needs, a survey found.
Chemist Tries to Solve World's Energy Woes
A U.S. chemist is trying to determine how the world will produce enough energy to supply 9 billion people by mid-century -- and whether that can be done without pumping off-the-charts amounts of carbon dioxide into the air.
Coal Supply Problems Cause Costly Unit Cycling for PRB Coal Users
Coal rail transportation disruptions, mainly due to train derailments and extended rail maintenance, are causing problems for Powder River Basin (PRB) coal users already running coal-fired power plants with low coal stockpiles.
Department of Energy Releases Vision & Framework for the U.S. Climate Change Technology Program
The report provides strategic direction and guidance to the 10 Federal agencies developing new and advanced global climate change technologies.
Energy Bill Drops Requirement for Smog-Reducing Gasoline Additives
Additives in about a third of the nation's gasoline -- aimed at reducing smog in urban areas with the worst air pollution -- will no longer be required under the energy policy that President Bush just signed into law.
Energy bill favorable to coal, will boost clean-coal investment
Energy policy focus now shifts to bureaucracy
The legislation "will help ensure that consumers receive electricity over dependable modern infrastructure," said Bush at the ceremony outside the laboratory. "The bill removes outdated obstacles to investment in electricity transmission lines in generating facilities. The bill corrects the provision of the law that made electric reliability standards optional instead of mandatory."
Federal Energy Bill Provides Significant Economic Benefits to Users of Microturbines
Former Pork Producer Enters Renewable Energy Business
Now that he's is in the renewable energy business, Rastetter switched from villain -- in some people's eyes -- to hero. No one protested when his new company, Hawkeye Renewables of Iowa Falls, built an ethanol plant just outside of Iowa Falls. Or rallied against the plant currently under construction near Fairbank.
If I Could Have Written the Energy Bill... A Guest Commentary
Rising energy imports, climate change, and reliance on polluting fossil fuel and nuclear technologies all threaten the nation's economy, national security, public health, and the environment. None of these problems will go away. None will be solved by the new energy bill. In fact, all may well be made worse by it.
Madera Farmer Praises the Benefits of Soil Solarization
Tom Willey is spreading the word about solarization and how this inexpensive, chemical-free approach killed the weeds plaguing his 75-acre organic farm in the Central Joaquin Valley.
NEI says energy bill gives industry tools for new plants
Northeast states sue EPA over water use rules for power plants
Six Northeast states, including Connecticut, have sued the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, claiming its rules governing power plants' use of water will cause continued fish kills and other environmental harm.
OPEC likely to raise output ceiling if prices stay high Shatwan
Picture Democrats, Republicans
Sen
Jeff Bingaman, D-NM, was pleased with the Senate's 74-26 vote Friday to
pass a sweeping new energy bill, legislation he believes “has many more
bright spots than flaws and deserves passage by the Senate and signature
by the President," he said.
The beauty of it is overwhelming.
President Bush signs US comprehensive energy legislation into law
Rainbands and Hurricane Intensity
A collaborative research team is soon to begin one of the largest hurricane research projects ever undertaken to better understand dramatic, rapid changes in tropical storm intensity that have baffled forecasters for years. While researchers have studied the eye and outer rainbands of hurricanes extensively, "few, if any, experiments have ever examined these two components together and how their interaction might affect a storm's strength
Reregulation initiative bites dust
A Sacramento court ordered another initiative off California's November ballot Friday an attempt by consumer advocates to reregulate the state's electricity market. A three-judge panel of the 3rd District Court of Appeal ruled that Proposition 80 was "unquestionably invalid on its face"
Scientists Study Arctic Climate Changes
"There are more climate changes happening up there than anywhere else in the world," Berger said of the Arctic. "Models predict drastic changes up there by the middle of this century."
Solar Power is Latest Innovation at N.J. Farms
Move over, Jersey tomatoes. Some farmers are producing a new
crop: energy.
They're putting solar power systems over barn roofs and fields to make
electricity for their homes, farm buildings and irrigation systems --
and reducing pollution at the same time.
The country is facing a paradox: It needs natural gas but supply shortages in the United States along with strict regulatory policies are presenting problems. To meet future needs, the nation must then import the commodity -- in a form called liquefied natural gas.
There's a $500 energy-conservation prize waiting for you in the new federal energy bill
The offer's buried in the 1,724-page energy bill that President Bush has said he'll sign next week. It gives consumers a credit off the bottom line of their 2006 or 2007 taxes equal to 10 percent of their energy-saving purchases. The maximum over the two years is $500 and applies to any owner-occupied home or condominium. It's probably a good deal for you, although it's pretty complicated.
U.S. Court Rejects Effort to Block Rules on Mercury Pollution
An effort by environmental groups to block the President George W. Bush's administration from implementing its new regulations on mercury pollution power plants was rejected by a federal appeals court.
Warming Making Hurricanes Stronger, Study Says
Is global warming making hurricanes more ferocious? New research suggests the answer is yes. Scientists call the findings both surprising and "alarming" because they suggest global warming is influencing storms now -- rather than in the distant future.
Ameren Corp. and Commonwealth Edison agree to buy. Developers agree to expand and build. Federal legislators agree to subsidize. The state commerce commission agrees to require and regulate. Environmentalists agree the news is good.And all are talking about wind energy.
August 8, 2005
"We see only Japan as being within reach of having a fully functioning large-scale solar market. The U.S. market, by contrast, is small in proportion to the country's size, influence and wealth."
The foundations of tomorrow's solar industry have to be laid in the
developed world. It is here, if anywhere, that the sector will gain the scale
needed to become profitable. If solar is to play a significant part in the lower
carbon economy, it cannot be a cottage industry.
AEC Unveils its First Hydrogen Production Demonstration Unit
Alternate Energy Corporation's H2 1500-A1 demonstration unit produces hydrogen from water, on demand. Production arrangements are being made for shipment later in 2005 at a price projected to be comparable to fossil fuels.
Arguments about ethanol reignite
South Dakota’s growing ethanol industry got a major
boost Friday with passage of a $12.3 billion energy bill, but critics
are renewing a longstanding claim that making the alternative fuel
consumes more energy than it produces, harming the economy and the
environment.
If those critics are right, the new mandate to more than double the use
of ethanol by 2012 will increase U.S. reliance on fossil fuel and
increase greenhouse gas emissions.
Biodiesel Tax Incentive Extended to 2008
The National Biodiesel Board (NBB) and American Soybean Association (ASA) hailed Congress's passage of the Energy Bill as a crucial step forward in establishing biodiesel as a long-term component of the nation's energy supply. The bill passed with several provisions to promote biodiesel's growth, including the extension of a federal excise tax credit, the industry's number one priority.
Biomass Plant to Convert Rice Straw to Ethanol
Colusa Biomass Energy, a biomass-to-ethanol company, has engaged technical assistance consultants for a production plant in the Sacramento Valley that will convert rice straw to chemical products and ethanol.
BRITISH and European energy giants will lead the multi-billion dollar takeover wave to sweep America after the passing of its controversial energy bill. UK companies Centrica and National Grid have confirmed their interest in taking part; Germany's Eon - which owns UK brand Powergen - has also been named as a likely acquirer.
China endeavors to turn coal mine gas into clean energy source
Troubled by frequent coal mine accidents, China is learning from foreign experience to harness the fatal methane gas and turn the "No. 1 underground killer" into a new energy source.
The Pansan Coal Mine, located on the Huaihe River, has built dozens of bunker-shape structures under the high ventilating shaft. They are connected, through several bulky pipes, with two large gas tanks, which are linked to a small power plant.
Every year, several species of watermold cause major economic losses around the world, particularly in sugar beets and peas as well as freshwater fish and crayfish farms. Watermolds also plague home aquaria and West Coast salmon farmers. Developing countries can suffer major economic losses because of these organisms.
Energy bill offers home tax credits
You won't feel it when you fill up at the pump or when you pay the power bill for air-conditioning, but after five years' work, Congress has cleared an energy policy that tucks consumer incentives in between big energy industry write-offs.
Energy bill offers rich rewards for hybrids
Some consumers will see a dramatic increase in tax breaks for buying gas-electric hybrid vehicles under an energy bill that has gone to President Bush for his signature. The provision is one of the money-saving goodies aimed at consumers who conserve energy. The bill also includes incentives for homeowners.
Energy bill's winners and losers
Supporters say the $14.5 billion bill will pave the way for more exploration and ultimately less reliance on foreign oil. Critics say it will enrich the already wealthy oil industry without addressing the need for relief from record oil and gasoline prices.
Europe's Next Industrial Revolution
The industrial revolution is over, and the machines have won. But as jobs in factories and offices disappear, there are still opportunities to create new kinds of employment. According to Jeremy Rifkin, the first opportunity lies in what he calls the "Hydrogen Economy." The hydrogen economy envisions a transition from today's reliance on fossil fuels to hydrogen power.
Fed. Research Grants Target Silicon Production
Solar module line manufacturer GT Equipment Technologies won three technical grants from the U.S. Government totaling nearly $1 million. One of the projects will explore the production of solar cells from lower-grade silicon as a way to lower the end cost of solar modules.
Fuel-Cell Researchers Look to Carbon
If their preliminary findings hold up under more experimentation, carbon-based storage may have the most potential, among several technologies now being considered, to make fuel-cell vehicles commercially viable.
Giant Ocean Waves More Common Than Thought
Last year's Hurricane Ivan generated an ocean wave that towered
higher than 90 feet at one point, says a study that also suggests such giants
may be more common than once thought.
Research indicates these are not "rogue waves but actually fairly common
during hurricanes,
Greece urges public to contain electricity consumption
Greek Development Minister Dimitris Sioufas on Monday urged consumers to contain electricity consumption in peak morning hours, from 11.00 to 15.00 local time, and stressed that ministry authorities and the energy market were in full alert to prevent any major electricity grid black outs in the country.
Hurricane Spawned Biggest Waves Ever Measured, Study Says
Hurricane Ivan, which struck U.S. shores September 15, 2004, kicked up the tallest, most extreme waves ever measured, scientists announced today.
At more than 90 feet (27 meters) tall from crest to trough and 600 feet (183 meters) long.
Hybrid Cars Coming Soon to California Car Pool Lanes
State lawmakers passed a bill last year that gave some types of the high-mileage, low-emission vehicles access to the coveted lanes -- a privilege meant to encourage drivers to buy the environmentally friendly cars.
Hydrogen result causes controversy
In a series of papers Mills and co-workers have argued that the results of a variety of experiments on hydrogen plasmas can only be explained by the existence of a new state in which the electron has less energy than the n=1 ground state. Mills argues that the hydrino state could be used as a new source of energy -- a claim that has led to a predictably negative response from other researchers -- and may even have some connection to the problem of "dark" matter.
Illinois farmers applaud energy bill
The first national energy policy since 1992 has farmers and alternative energy supporters smiling.
The bill passed last week by the Senate calls for 4 billion gallons of ethanol, the U.S. fuel additive largely derived from corn, to be blended into the nation's fuel supply in 2006, increasing to 7.5 billion gallons by 2012.
New Business Cycle Expected for Ocean Energy
After securing helpful policy items in the recently passed House-Senate energy bill, proponents of ocean energy are looking forward to an accelerated business cycle for the nascent renewable energy technology. The energy bill's ocean provisions are the most recognition the federal government has given to the potential of ocean power in over 20 years.
Pataki signs solar-energy bill
NEW YORK: New legislation signed into law by Gov. Pataki on Monday is intended to promote the use of solar energy in New York state.The new law exempts solar-energy equipment from state sales taxes, and it expands tax incentives for homeowners who install solar-energy equipment.
Perry signs renewable energy bill
AUSTIN, TEXAS — An energy bill has been signed into law today by Gov. Rick Perry.
The measure deals with sources such as wind, biomass and solar power -- and cutting pollution.
Portuguese Firefighters Struggle to Contain Wildfires
Strong winds and sweltering temperatures fueled some 20 wildfires across drought-stricken Portugal on Thursday as the number of firefighters on duty nearly doubled compared to the previous day, authorities said.
Ranchers encouraged by energy bill
Ranchers who hope wind generation could provide an income boost say the recently passed energy bill could help.
The bill would make it easier for energy generators - including those generating wind power - to access power lines and transmit their energy to customers.
Records, Records Everywhere But Power (Mostly) Stays On
The week's long heat wave across much of the US has spiked electricity demand to record levels, according to EEI. For the week ending July 23, generators supplied 95,259 gwh, bettering the old record by more than 5%.
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity080605
Analysis of Solar Active Regions and Activity from 05/2100Z to 06/2100Z: Solar activity was low. Region 794 (S12W10) produced a C1.1 flare at 05/2044 UTC.
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 080805
The geomagnetic field ranged from quiet to active levels, with minor storm conditions observed at high latitudes between 07/0300 - 0600 UTC. Solar wind speed remains elevated at approximately 600 km/s, but Bt has decreased to about 5 nT.
Residents upset about fuel cell plan
"They haven't tested it anywhere before, and I wonder whether they would test it in Helena, in East Helena or in their own backyard," Eakin said. "They seem to think that most people up here are ignorant and will go for anything. But I'm not into being a guinea pig."
Scotland's nuke plants to get armed police
"There has been growing concern that there might be some kind of an attack on power stations, especially the nuclear plants," a police source said. "While there is not very much chance of actually blowing anything up, they would want to make a big impact by disrupting power supplies, that would spread the terror by showing that no one can escape from them."
Scrapping Nukes Vital For Human Survival -Elbaradei
"It has always been hoped that the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki stand as constant reminders of why preventing the further use and proliferation of such weapons -- and why nuclear disarmament leading to a nuclear weapon-free world -- is of utmost importance for the survival of humankind and planet Earth," he said.
Solar-Fabrik takes over KL silicon wafer trader
A spokesman for the company, Martin Schlenk, said by purchasing GEWD, Solar-Fabrik is expected to double its production of solar wafers, exceeding 30 megawatts for 2006.
Solving the Worlds Energy Problem-MIT's Daniel Nocera
If you ever wonder about how the world will produce enough energy to supply 9 billion people by mid-century and whether that can be done without pumping off-the-charts amounts of carbon dioxide into the air meet one of the minds trying to come up with an answer.
South Korea offers North electricity as incentive
A planned joint statement from the six-nation talks in Beijing aimed at scrapping North Korea's nuclear weapons capabilities will include a South Korean offer to send electricity to the North as a potential reward for denuclearization
Southern states are in bidding war for nuclear power plants
Three decades after U.S. utilities quit trying to build more nuclear power plants in the face of rising costs and environmental concerns, a bidding war of sorts is emerging among Southern states eager to land the next generation of nuclear power plants.
Scientists have found a way to harness the Sun's energy to extract zinc metal, which can then be used to produce hydrogen simply by pouring water over it.
Technologies for the Hydrogen Highway
California has been a pioneer in introducing clean energy technologies. The golden state is the cradle of the California Fuel Cell Partnership, Governor Schwarzenegger's Hydrogen Highway vision and much industry R&D activity. There are currently 15 hydrogen stations located in Calfornia to refill the fuel cell vehicles of several small fleets throughout the state. This makes it the ideal location for the next Hydrogen Expo US
Thousands Mark Hiroshima A-Bomb 60th Anniversary
Tens of thousands of people from around the world gathered in Hiroshima on Saturday to renew calls for the abolition of nuclear arms on the 60th anniversary of the atomic bombing of the city.
U.S. Makes Drilling Compensation Voluntary
With drilling rigs sprouting across the Rockies, federal land
managers have quietly made it voluntary for companies to compensate for oil and
gas development by improving the environment.
Environmentalists are concerned that the policy lets companies off the
hook when it comes to fixing up areas near drilling sites, a process
known as "offsite mitigation."
Utilities warn doctors about shut-off rules
Two midstate utilities are warning doctors that they might be hauled before a hearing to justify signing forms that allow their patients to avoid having gas or electric service shut off.
Nevada Power Co. and affiliated Sierra Pacific Power Co. on Thursday announced they are taking applications for rebates that typically run $12,000 for installing solar power systems at their homes and small businesses.
Where First A-Bomb Fell, Prayers Ask 'Never Again'
HIROSHIMA, Japan, Aug. 6 - At 8:15 a.m. Saturday, as tens of thousands of Japanese bowed their heads here to mark the instant when an atomic bomb fell 60 years ago, only the loud, telltale buzz of the summer cicadas broke the respectful silence.
FOR Peter Carruthers, even the name "wind farm" is an Orwellian attempt to make vast industrial developments sound cuddly, playing down the image of huge whistling turbines and encouraging the image of beaming farmers in wellies watching green energy being generated.
Wind turbine benefits sway many in town
The majority of people who attended a public hearing Thursday evening on the possible construction of wind turbines in the town of Cape Vincent said the economic benefits stemming from such development far outweigh the concerns of bird lovers and seasonal property owners.
Wind turbine electricity ushers in new hopes in Bangladesh
Bangladesh's first-ever generation of electricity from wind at a 900-kilowatt plant has ushered in new hopes for generation of power with minimum cost in the country.
August 5, 2005
4-US Northeast-Midwest grids near record power demand
Demand for electricity in the U.S. Mid-Atlantic and Midwest climbed to near record levels but did not exceed the all-time peaks set during an intense heat wave last week, power grid operators in the region said on Wednesday.Despite widespread heat and humidity, grid operators said their systems held up well and no emergency conservation measures were needed to meet the surge in demand.
Bulgaria Counts Toll of Devastating Summer Floods
Heavy storms and floods this summer have killed 17 people and caused 393 million levs ($248 million) of damage in Bulgaria, the Black Sea country's government said on Thursday.
Coal Producers may hold BLM leases longer
DOE and USCAR Invest $195 Million to Develop Energy-Efficient Vehicles
U.S. Secretary of Energy Samuel W. Bodman and leaders of the United States Council for Automotive Research (USCAR) recently announced an agreement that could reach $125 million over five years to develop advanced high-performance batteries for electric, hybrid electric and fuel cell vehicle applications.
DOE Awards $92.5 Million to 19 States to Weatherize Homes of Low-Income Families
The DOE's Weatherization Assistance Program makes improvements such as plugging air leaks, improving insulation and tuning air conditioning and heating systems, which reduces energy waste and lowers energy bills. Through DOE’s weatherization program, approximately 92,300 homes will be upgraded this year.
Drought-Hit Thailand through Worst of Water Crisis
Drought-hit Thailand is through the worst of its water supply worries this year thanks to increased spending on infrastructure, but the outlook for next year is uncertain, a major water supplier said on Thursday.
EPA tells 28 states to clean air
The Bush administration has told West Virginia and 27 other states it will order specific pollution cuts from their power plants if state officials don't have their own plan by fall of next year for making the air cleaner for people downwind.
Hot Spring Runs Dry as Portugal's Drought Deepens
Forest fires raged in Portugal on Thursday amid the country's worst drought in decades, temperatures soared and a famous thermal spring dried up.
Hurricane Ivan Generated Monster Waves - Study
Hurricane Ivan, which caused a swathe of destruction across the Caribbean last September before crashing into the US Gulf coast, generated ocean waves more than 90 feet (27 metres) high, researchers said on Thursday.
IG audit questions use of DOE oversight funds at Yucca Mountain
"The hydrogen economy is both real and hyped," says David Bodde, senior fellow at Clemson University in South Carolina. "Some obstacles have to be overcome. That said, there is an urgent need to move to a more sustainable energy infrastructure."
Manila slashes ethanol import duty to 1 from 10 percent to spur demand
For the provision of electricity, legislatures and regulators have historically encouraged the construction of large, centralized power plants that are connected by a network of long transmission and distribution lines that terminate at a home or business. In the 1990’s, technological advances and progressive regulatory policies started putting this centralization paradigm into doubt
Only recession in US and China will bring oil price down
"Oil prices will tend to rise as long as the rate of growth in the US and China remains high, and it is only as the result of a recession in these two world economies that prices will fall."
Pacific Gas and Electric Company Seeks to Expand Renewable Energy Resources for Its Customers
Pacific Gas and Electric Company announced today it has issued a Request for Offers (RFO) to solicit renewable energy on behalf of its five million electric customers. This marks the company's third renewable energy solicitation pursuant to the State of California Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) program.
Panel backs petrol, diesel customs duty cut
NEW DELHI (Reuters) - A parliamentary panel urged the government in a report released on Thursday to slash customs duty on petrol and diesel to five percent from 10 percent.It asked the government to limit the increase in domestic prices of oil products and said there should be a uniform sales tax for petroleum products.
Power Demand Peaks in Tokyo Wed. Under Hot Spell
Electricity demand at Tokyo Electric Power Co. soared to a record high for this summer Wednesday afternoon as a heat wave lingered across the Japanese archipelago.
Renewable power in N.M. receives a boost
New Mexico, already known as an energy state for its vast oil and gas reserves, is poised to make a name for itself as a renewable energy state, according to some.
Solar and Geophysical Activity SDF Number 216
Region 794 (S11E19) produced a C8/Sf event at 04/0559Z, which was the largest flare of the period.
Solargenix Energy's New Solar Thermal Power Plant a Reality in Southern Nevada
Solargenix Energy, LLC, a leading provider in the design, manufacture, integration and deployment of Solar Thermal Renewable Systems, using cutting-edge solar technology, will locate its new 65 MW Solar Thermal Power Plant in Southern Nevada.
Spanish Grain Harvest Seen Down 61 Percent
Spain's drought-hit grain harvest is expected to weigh in at 7.5 million tonnes, down 61 percent on last year's, farmers' union COAG said on Thursday.
Summer heat may push winter power prices to record highs, sources
Utilities Tapping Natural Gas-Fired Plants to Meet Consumer Electricity Demand
We Energies' new $335 million natural gas-fired power plant has been running non-stop this week as hot weather causes demand for power to soar while utilities are forced to conserve coal.
Widespread Environmental Damage seen from Shuttle
"Sometimes you can see how there is erosion, and you can see how there is deforestation. It's very widespread in some parts of the world
August 4, 2005
Brent crude breaks all-time high, over $61bbl ahead of US data
"Prices have risen on the back of the death of King Fahd. However, as that does not affect fundamentals, people have
overcooked the market and so the rises are unsustainable. The market should come off quite a bit," one IPE player said.
Cities Seek to Acquire Utilities
About 100 cities in the recent past have examined the possibility of forming municipal utilities. But, the results are often disappointing for the potential acquirer because the costs tend to add up and the complexities of such a task are sometimes underestimated. Investor-owned utilities put up a fight and court battles often prolong the efforts. At the same time, various factors such as stranded costs, engineering expenses and fuel prices are often misgauged and eventual price tag can be more than what buyers intended.
City continues to explore Aquila buy
City Council heard from its consultants Monday about the possibility of buying the Aquila electric utility and will continue to work on the issue.
Clean Vehicle Research Initiative on Track, But Many Challenges Ahead
A public-private effort to develop more fuel-efficient automobiles and eventually introduce hydrogen as a transportation fuel is well-planned and identifies all major hurdles the program will face
Emissions reduction efforts to address the issue of climate change focus on two primary greenhouse gases: CO2 and methane. CO2 is released when fossil fuels - oil, coal and natural gas - are burned to power our cars, produce electricity or heat our buildings. Methane is emitted in urban areas when garbage and waste products decompose, primarily in landfills. Local governments can play a key role because they directly influence and control many of the activities that produce these emissions.
Demand for renewables in U.S. to increase 5.2 by next year
Demand for renewable energies in the United States will increase by 5.2% by next year, according to the latest forecast from the Department of Energy.
Energy bill contains new tax incentives for energy-conscious citizens
Either through tax credits from Uncle Sam or direct savings on your utility bills, it's paying off to be more energy- conscious at home. The energy bill awaiting President Bush's signature contains several new tax incentives for consumers who take advantage of energy-smart vehicles and building materials and who make home improvements with a nod toward the environment.
EPA Aid Falls Short of North Carolina's Request
The Environmental Protection Agency said Monday it would deny in part North Carolina's petition for help in reducing power-plant pollution blowing in from other states.
Europe Plays Nuclear Poker with Iran
The Iranian government's threat to resume limited nuclear activities after the European Union (EU) missed a deadline on Sunday to offer new incentives is clearly part of a calculated attempt to mount pressure on the EU-3 (Britain, France and Germany).
French Organic Wheat Sector Hit by Sluggish Demand
Organic agriculture has taken off over the past decade in Europe after food and farming crises over mad cow disease, dioxin, foot-and-mouth and swine fever, and amid continued concerns over genetically modified crops (GMOs).
Fuel cells have been used for decades to provide power for astronauts riding aloft in the nation's space capsules. But here on Earth, use of the cells has barely gotten off the ground in cars and power generation.
Green Buildings Are a Growing Trend
"Environmental design is a holistic design approach to facilities," said
Sean McGuire, program coordinator for the Green Building Network in
Maryland. "It is the way that the building and the environment work
together as an eco-system."
Green Mountain Power Trucks to Run on Green Fuel
The next time you pass a Green Mountain Power linetruck on the highway, you may notice a slight smell of French fries. That's because Green Mountain Power's fleet of linetrucks will begin using biodiesel fuel, an alternative fuel made from animal fat and vegetable oil, primarily soybean, as a result of a new fuel arrangement with Champlain Oil Company.
Groups push hydrogen to fuel S.C. economic growth
The Palmetto State is at the forefront of budding efforts to power cars and homes with hydrogen, rather than fossil fuels like oil and gas. Now, scientists, politicians and business-development officials are hoping the vanguard research can help accelerate the state's economy.
Moon soils store Earth's early breath
Traces of ancient nitrogen could date our magnetic field. The discovery hints that our planet's magnetic field switched on about 3.9 billion years ago. This in turn points to when life began on Earth, as the magnetic field protects us from a hail of DNA-damaging particles from space.
Municipal Energy Consortium Grows Almost 100 Mass. Communities Buy From Md. Supplier
Nevada Moves toward $5 Billion Las Vegas Water Project
Nevada may be near a deal that would clear the way for one of the most ambitious water projects in the arid US Southwest since the Hoover Dam -- a $5 billion network of wells and pipelines to bring water to the booming Las Vegas area.
New bill includes solar tax breaks
Homeowners can get a $2,000 tax credit for buying a solar-powered electric system or water heater, courtesy of the federal energy bill that recently passed Congress, a solar-power advocate said Tuesday.
Northwest Utility Customers Purchasing Power From Green Energy Sources Jumps in 2004
Thirty-six utilities in the Pacific Northwest offer voluntary green power purchasing programs, according to the Renewable Northwest Project. The advocacy group said that, since its last report a year ago, 24,384 customers have purchased green power, bringing the Northwest's total to 85,000 residential and commercial customers.
Organic farms 'best for wildlife'
"The exclusion of synthetic pesticides and fertilisers from organic is a fundamental difference between systems," the study says.
Increased biodiversity was a "happy by-product" of sustainable farming practices and farmers working with "natural processes" to increase productivity, she added.
Quote of the
day
"This is an exciting and very important discovery for Brunei,
representing a new milestone in the history of the Seria field. Oil and
associated gas were found in a section of approximately 140 meters of net sands
with good reservoir quality. We are currently evaluating the options to produce
from this area."
Brunei Shell Petroleum's managing director Grahaeme Henderson said as BSP has
struck oil and gas in a structure in the Seria
North Flank area.
See more industry/OPEC viewpoints at
http://www.platts.com/Oil/Resources/Quote%20of%20the%20Day/
Renewable Energy Standards Adjusted in Texas and California
Legislation in Texas has doubled the state's commitment to renewable energy development and a report on California's efforts indicates progress on meet its 20 percent renewable portfolio standard (RPS) years earlier than required.
Shell strikes oil, gas in Seria North Flank area, offshore Brunei
It is an area of shallow waters ranging from two to 10 meters deep and stretches about 20km along the length of the coastline. BSP is pushing to accelerate development of the Seria North Flank to compensate for the dwindling production from the mature Seria field.
Shuttle crew see damage on Earth
Discovery Commander Eileen Collins described on Thursday how widespread environmental destruction on Earth is highly visible from the shuttle.
Six nations propose alternative to Kyoto
The United States, Australia, China, India, Japan and South Korea will develop and promote “new investment opportunities, build local capacity and remove barriers to the introduction of clean, more efficient technologies” which include wind, solar, geothermal, hydropower, nuclear and clean coal. The plan was announced at a meeting of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations in Laos.
Solar car averages speed of 74 kmh across continent
Twenty universities and colleges started the race in Austin, Texas, and 18 completed the ten-day trip to the Olympic Oval in Calgary, Alberta. Organizers say the NASC is the longest solar car race in the world, and this fourth event was the first time that competitors crossed from the United States into Canada.
Solar Energy Project Looks To Advance Hydrogen Fuel Use
Hydrogen, the most plentiful element in the universe, is an attractive candidate for becoming a pollution-free fuel of the future. However, nearly all hydrogen used today is produced by means of expensive processes that require combustion of polluting fossil fuels. Moreover, storing and transporting hydrogen is extremely difficult and costly.
Sugar cane could soon be used to generate electricity
A number of proposals are being canvassed for converting electricity from sources other than the traditional imported fuels.
It is believed that while investments would be high, in the long run, the cheaper electricity generated would redound to the benefits of consumers and industrial of users.
News Aug05/Today's Ozone from Earth Probe TOMS
Visual from satellite photography.
Utilities Wrestle With I.T. Security Standards
As a brutal heat wave moved across the nation last week, sending temperatures in Denver to 105 degrees and causing Con Edison in New York to hit a peak usage record of more than 13,000 megawatts, electric utility executives met in San Francisco to put the finishing touches on standards to protect the U.S. power grid from physical and cyberattacks.
Utility Stocks Climb on Impending New Law
U.S. energy utility stocks are trading near 52-week highs on speculation that a bill awaiting President Bush's signature will unleash billions of dollars of investment and the greatest wave of industry consolidation since the 1930s.
August 3, 2005
Agricultural Customers Can Help Reduce Air Pollution by Signing Up for New Incentive Program
Pacific Gas and Electric Company today launched an incentive program designed to encourage agricultural customers to help improve air quality in California by retiring stationary diesel engines used for irrigation pumping and replacing them with clean and efficient electric motors.
Alaska Food Safe Decades after Nuclear Blasts -Study
Three decades after officials detonated nuclear bombs under a remote Aleutian Island, a scientific panel has determined that fish and other wild foods in the area are safe to eat, according to a report issued on Tuesday.
Beacon Power Announces Acceptance of Flywheel Demonstration System by California Energy Commission
The scale-power flywheel-based energy storage system, designed to demonstrate highly responsive and cost-effective frequency regulation services for the electricity grid, is scheduled for shipment to San Ramon, California, later this month.
Bicycles Selling Like Hotcakes in US Stores
The struggling US automobile industry may do well to take some lessons from its non-motorized brethren because bicycles are selling like hotcakes.
Brownfields Economic Development Initiative
As a result of difficulties applicants have had in submitting applications this year under the HUD SuperNOFA, the Brownfields Economic Development Initiative (BEDI) program competition has re-opened; the new deadline is August 25, 2005.
Bush to sign energy bill into law next week
Bingaman
Coal shortage, heat prop up September NYMEX gas contract
Traders also were concerned that a coal shortage will force off-peak power plants to burn more gas, he said. "That's what basically is keeping prices supported
Decades of Hurricanes Threaten US Offshore Oil
Oil companies in the United States are pinning the hopes of the nation's energy future on big oil finds in offshore waters even as scientists predict the Atlantic will spawn more powerful hurricanes through the next two to three decades.
Energy Bill Is a Mixed Bag for Some
America's fledgling renewable energy industry won't be significantly transformed by the energy bill Congress passed Friday. To the disappointment of environmentalists and those with a financial stake in alternatives to fossil fuels, most of the $14.5 billion in tax breaks will help producers and users of oil, natural gas and coal.
Energy Diversion - Out of Sight, Out of Mind
Energy diversion is both a crime and a public safety issue that can lead to personal and property damage. And it cuts across classes, individuals, and businesses. Examples run the gamut from industrial or small commercial enterprises that tamper with a meter to cut costs and increase profit margins, to an individual tapping into the power line in reaction to rate hikes or reacting to getting disconnected for non-payment, or some individuals just trying to “game the system.”
Five Facts about Atlantic Hurricane Season
US government forecasters on Tuesday predicted that 21 tropical storms could form during the 2005 Atlantic hurricane season, tying a record set in 1933.
Freight car maker reports orders up 60%
German officials unhappy with climate pact
German Results Cast Doubt on UK's Wind Farm Proposals
The Government's target of generating a 10th of energy from renewable sources by 2010 is being undermined by German data that indicates wind power may be less efficient than had been hoped.
If We Could Have Written the Energy Bill
If you could have written the energy bill, what would you have included? You offered up some interesting and creative ideas
This book is about methane catastrophe. Methane catastrophes have occurred several times in Earth's history, and when they have occurred, they have sometimes caused abrupt changes in the history of life, and at least one significant extinction. That extinction, at the end of the Permian Period 250 million years ago, is the greatest in the history of life. More than 90% of the then-existing species perished, and the course of life on Earth was altered forever.
If a methane catastrophe were to happen in the near future, it is likely that not only would a considerable percentage of existing plants and animals be killed off, but a large percentage of the human population as well
Natural Gas and Some Natural Gas Myths for the 21st Century
Basically, what I am contending is that electricity deregulation (or restructuring, as it is more correctly labelled) has failed, is failing, or eventually will fail because the increase in risk/uncertainty has a negative effect on investment; and the same thing – or worse – applies to the deregulation of natural gas. It also happens that most deregulation efforts in electricity or gas are contrary to the logic of mainstream economic theory.
Nearly Nine Million Scrap Tires Burned for Power Generation at Aquila Missouri Plants
Aquila's (NYSE: ILA) program to help keep the Missouri landscape free of scrap tires by using them to generate electricity at two company coal-fired power plants is nearing the nine-million tire mark, a company official said today.
NOAA Sees More Active Hurricane Season this Year
This year's hurricane season will be worse than expected with as many as 21 tropical storms and 11 hurricanes that could menace the US Atlantic and Gulf coasts, government weather forecasters predicted Tuesday.
Searing heat strains U.S. power grid
The brutal heat wave blanketing much of the United States has triggered a second day of record power demand for air conditioning, straining the grid and leading operators to take steps to avoid blackouts.
U.S. Mayors Endorse Nickels’ Climate Protection Agreement
"Mayors across America are making it clear; we’re not going to wait for the federal government to do something to prevent the production of greenhouse gases. We’re going to step up and provide the leadership at the local level, city by city.”
US power generation rises 13.9 on year to 92,697 GWh EEI
The largest rise in output was reported for the second week running in the Central Industrial region, where output rose 22.1% to 15,951 GWh compared with the same period in 2004 while in the West Central region, generation rose
16.6%.
August 2, 2005
We're BACK!!! Thanks for your patience!!
Active Storm Season Causes Jitters in Energy Market
Despite a very active start to the 2005 Atlantic hurricane season that has set energy markets on edge, forecasters on Thursday said there was no reason yet to expect this year will bring a record number of named storms.
Arctic Ocean Depths Teeming with Life
The remotest depths of the Arctic ocean are surprisingly full of life, including previously unknown species of jellyfish and worms, a scientific team which just finished exploring the area said on Friday.
Australia Facing Hotter, More Volatile Weather
Australia could be up to two degrees Celsius warmer by 2030 and face more bushfires, heatwaves and storms despite global efforts to reduce greenhouse gases, a climate change report showed on Tuesday.
Australia says ASEAN Nations Keen on New Climate Pact
Southeast Asian countries have expressed interest in joining a new US-led partnership to cut greenhouse gas emissions by developing technology and economic incentives, Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer said.
Australia to Host Inaugural Beyond Kyoto Meeting
Australia will host in November the first meeting of six nations that have agreed a pact to combat global warming through new technology to cut greenhouse gas emissions, diplomatic sources said on Thursday.
Deere Creates Unit Focused on Wind Energy
Deere & Co. said on Thursday it has created a unit to focus on developing and funding wind energy projects and has invested in wind projects in Minnesota and Texas.
Drought to Leave Mark on Global Grain Flows
Drought around the world threatens to leave its mark on global grain trade flows this season, offering welcome new opportunities for some countries expecting large harvests, analysts said on Friday.
Dry-Cleaning Chemical Spurs Worries about Wells
The neighborhood is among scores of locales in Harris County experiencing the fallout from dry cleaners' use of the solvent perchloroethylene, a possible carcinogen.
Energy bill to have 'slighty positive' implications
Environmental Report Names Top Power Plant Polluters in Northeast
Ten power plants in the Northeast last year produced a third of the region's carbon dioxide emissions, considered a major contributor to global warming, according to a report released Tuesday by a coalition of environmental groups.
Floods, Landslides Kill over 500 in Western India
More than 500 people have been killed by floods and landslides in western India and thousands remained stuck on Thursday in the nation's financial capital, Bombay, following the worst ever monsoon rains in the region.
Global energy demand to grow by 57% in 2002-2025 period US EIA
Going Green, Put Fruit in Your Tank, says Cyprus
Cyprus's abundance of fruits, grapes and potatoes could soon end up where you least expect it; in your fuel tank.
Higher coal prices will put pressure on power--Ameren
Hurricane Destructiveness Increased over 30 Years
Hurricanes have become more destructive over the past 30 years and global warming could increase their intensity in the future, an expert warned on Sunday.
Iraq Seen as Weakening Terror War
A plurality of the U.S. public now believes that Iraq war has undermined U.S. prospects for victory in the larger war on terrorism, but a majority still believe that Washington should not yet begin withdrawing its troops
The United States, Australia, China, India and South Korea are set on Thursday to unveil a pact aimed at cutting greenhouse gas emissions.
King Fahd balanced conservative tradition and pro-Western policy
Let the Real Climate Debate Begin -- A Guest Commentary
The global warming debate is over – the Earth is warming because of human activities. So say 11 National Academies of Science from around the world together with virtually all of the world’s climate scientists, California Governor Schwarzenegger, and even most of major oil companies.
Lofty US natural gas prices somewhat a mystery FERC official
Loss of Wolves Changes Canadian Ecosystem
The loss of once-plentiful wolves in a part of Canada's west allowed the elk population to mushroom, pushing out beavers and songbirds and showing the importance of top predators, Canadian researchers said on Monday.
Major Provisions in US Energy Bill
The Senate Friday approved 74 to 26 a broad energy energy bill, a day after the House overwhelmingly cleared the same measure 275 to 156.
Missouri Assesses Damage of Devastating Drought
With little to no rain in sight, Missouri agriculture officials met on Friday to determine how badly the summer's extreme heat and dry conditions were hurting the state's farmers.
Mud Roads, Rain Could Slow Niger Aid Effort
Torrential rain promising a better harvest in Niger threatens to slow aid deliveries to many of the millions of hungry people in desperate need of help before their crops ripen, aid workers said on Monday.
'Myth' That Forests Improve Water Flows
Many countries are wasting millions of dollars planting trees because of myths that forests always help improve water flows and offset erosion, a British-led study said on Friday.
Nearly All of Illinois Declared Drought Disaster
The US Agriculture Department on Wednesday declared virtually all of Illinois a disaster area eligible for low-interest loans because of crops withered by this summer's drought.
New forest rules unlikely to shorten energy permitting process
Pesticide Exposure Causes Illnesses in Schools
Although reported illnesses due to pesticide exposures at schools in the US are relatively uncommon, the incidence of such exposures among schoolchildren has increased in recent years, investigators report.
Plug Power Field Testing Next-Generation Fuel Cells
Plug Power Inc. (Latham, NY) has received a $943,000 contract extension from the Department of Defense as part of the Common Core Power Production Program. This new funding will enable Plug Power to begin field-testing the Company's next-generation continuous-run fuel cell systems.
Production tax credits for nuclear in energy bill
Reaction to Six-Nation Climate Pact
The United States is leading a six-nation pact to combat global warming, but critics said it offered no targets and would undermine existing treaties such as the Kyoto Protocol, which many nations have already ratified.
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity080205
(N12E25) produced the largest flare during the period, a long duration M1/1f flare. The geomagnetic field was at quiet to active levels. The geomagnetic field is expected to be at predominantly quiet to unsettled levels. Geomagnetic Sudden Impulse
Risk insurance provisions attached to energy bill
The risk insurance amendment offered by Sen. Pete Domenici (R-N.M.) would create a $2-billion program aimed at easing utility and Wall Street concerns about financial losses from regulatory delays in full-power operation of the first six reactors receiving NRC's new combined construction and operating licenses
Scientist Testifies on Global Warming
Global warming is caused primarily by humans and "nearly all climate scientists today" agree with that viewpoint, the new head of the National Academy of Sciences -- a climate scientist himself -- said Wednesday.
Sea Surge Floods Islands off Bangladesh
A tidal surge triggered by a storm in the Bay of Bengal on Tuesday flooded islands off the coast of Bangladesh and left about 3,000 people homeless, officials and residents said.
Senate OKs Energy Bill, Bush to Sign it into Law
The US Senate gave final congressional approval on Friday to a $14.5 billion energy bill championed by the White House as a way to boost domestic oil and gas supplies, but blasted by environmental groups and other critics as a giveaway to big energy companies.
Senegal Mulls Green Wall to Stop Desert Advance
Senegal is pushing to plant a "Great Green Wall" of trees stretching for nearly 7,000 km (4,375 miles), from Dakar to Djibouti, to stop the relentless advance of the Sahara desert.
SPACE WEATHER ADVISORY BULLETIN 05- 4
A minor radio blackout (R1) occurred today at 27/0502 UTC (26/2302 MST).
This activity indicates the likely return of old NOAA active sunspot region 786
to the front side of the Sun. During the last rotation across the Sun (01 - 14
July), this region produced moderate to strong (R2 - R3) radio blackouts, and
minor to moderate geomagnetic (G1 - G2) and solar radiation storms (S1 - S2).
SPACE WEATHER ADVISORY BULLETIN 05- 5
A strong radio blackout (R3) occurred today at 30/0635 UTC (12:35 am
MDT) due to a major flare on the Sun. The source of the flare was NOAA active
sunspot Region 792, which is the return of old NOAA Region 786
Spain Reports First Likely Human Death from Mad Cow
Spain reported the first probable death from the human variant of mad cow disease on Friday, a 26-year-old woman who was likely infected before the mad cow scare of 2000 led to strict controls.
Study Warns California Will Need 40 Percent More Water in 25 Years
At current rates, California's thirst for water will jump by 40 percent over the next 25 years, with much of the water used for landscaping, a new study warns.
Three in four Germans favor nuclear power decommissioning
country's exit from nuclear power, a survey commissioned by Greenpeace showed
Monday.
UK's PowerMed Joins Race for Bird-Flu Vaccine
Britain's privately owned PowderMed said on Monday it had developed a DNA-based vaccine against bird flu which could be produced quickly and in large quantities in the event of a pandemic.
US Beaches Getting Dirtier, Report Finds
More and more US beaches are being closed due to contamination, in part because there is more pollution and in part because of better monitoring, the National Resources Defense Council said on Thursday.
US Energy Bill Won't Cut Gasoline Prices - DOE Chief
American motorists should not expect lower gasoline prices to follow quickly on the heels of this week's expected passage of legislation to overhaul US energy policy, Energy Secretary Sam Bodman said on Wednesday.
US -Led Climate Plan Won't Supplant Kyoto - Experts
A US-led Asian-Pacific accord on spreading technology to fight global warming has hazy targets and is unlikely to end up supplanting the far broader U.N. Kyoto protocol, experts said on Thursday.
US Unveils Climate Pact, Kyoto Alternative
The Bush administration, which is pushing alternatives to the Kyoto treaty on global warming, unveiled a six-nation pact on Wednesday that promotes the use of technology to cut greenhouse gas emissions.
Utilities cope with less PRB coal
Pacific line in Wyoming, it appears as if most utilities have been able to
cope with a shortage of Powder River Basin coal.
Witnesses Say Bears Back in Switzerland
Bears may have returned to Switzerland, more than 100 years after disappearing from their Alpine habitat, according to eyewitnesses.
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