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July 28, 2005
We sincerely apologize for the absence of news for this past week. We, as some of you know, live and have our office in the White Mountains of Arizona. This past Thursday, an electrical storm came through of extraordinary magnitude...AND HIT US DIRECTLY!! It fried our motherboard (and a whole lot of other appliances), we are trying to get back online as soon as possible.
Again, we apologize for any inconvenience created by our absence. We are dedicated in getting the ENERGY NEWS to you.
Editor
July 21, 2005
An apocalyptic vision for North Sea oil
More than half of North Sea oil and gas could be left underground if exploration slips to the levels of just two years ago, according to a hard-hitting government report.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has warned that if investment levels
do not stay at the current rate, then the entire industry could grind to a halt
within 30 years -- dealing a heavy blow to the north-east economy.
An unlikely alliance for renewable energy plan
In a rare show of agreement, environmentalists joined utility executives Tuesday in praising an Illinois plan to generate more electricity from renewable sources, especially the wind.
Australian Farms Gleam as Rain Washes Away Drought
Fine rain falls on farmer Ian Donges as he surveys a green valley from one of his high paddocks. Rivulets of water run down the hillsides, forming puddles on land that just a month ago was dusty dry.
BASF's US Freeport petchem site cuts emissions by 58% on year
Britain should expect gas prices to increase to unprecedented levels
As bills for millions of homes will soar by 15 % to levels which have never been "seen or done before", Britain's biggest supplier warned. The rise will hit consumers across the UK who are already reeling from two major price hikes last year which saw bills increase by more than 18 %.
Caspian Sea to become major oil supplier
Energy experts attending a United Nations meeting in Geneva say that oil and natural gas from the Caspian Sea Region could ease the world's dependence on oil from the volatile Middle East.
Castro backs energy union initiative at Caribbean oil summit
"The union of countries and the integration could make feasible a solution to the energy problem," Castro told the summit hosted by Venezuela in the north-eastern city of Puerto la Cruz.
Coalition calls for climate change law
A coalition of MPs and NGOs began calls for a new law to combat climate change in the UK yesterday, in response to rising emissions and following last week’s G8 summit.
means it will only take 8 days to consume 1 billion barrel of oil, from a current 11,5 days. At the moment it takes much longer, to find this billion barrel and that will not improve. To look beyond peak oil, and approach some of the biggest questions humanity, and the energy world, has ever faced, and to see how we can approach solutions, we are organising ‘Future Energy Policy
Drought Sweeps All of Portugal, Fires Kill One
Portugal, gripped by its worst drought in at least 60 years, sent hundreds of firefighters to battle deadly blazes across the country on Wednesday and forecast heavy losses to the parched agricultural sector.
An outrageous resolution ...would call for the Russian government to raise natural gas prices for Ukraine, Moldova, Georgia, and the Baltic states --countries that have attempted to establish liberal societies that no longer take their orders from the Kremlin.
Whether or not it passes, the resolution is aggressive. It starkly illustrates
the situation Ukraine is in when it comes to energy supplies.
Energy bill conferees to tackle electricity title Thursday
afternoon.
Energy professionals: Coal plan requires environmental assessment
A full environmental assessment is required before the Ontario government can implement its plan to shut down the coal-burning generating stations, says the union representing the province's energy professionals.
Energy use necessitates cutback call
State regulators asked residents on Monday to conserve energy, warning that a heat wave was stressing California's power supply.
EU Commission to Press Ahead on Environment
The European Union executive said on Wednesday it would press ahead with several environmental initiatives this year despite industry concern about high costs.
EU is dependent on Russian energy
Decreasing the European Union's dependence on Russian energy supplies is unlikely, said an EU representative.
EU opens wide-ranging debate on energy savings
The European Commission on 22 June put forward a series of ideas for discussion that it says could save Europe some 20 % in energy consumption by 2020 and slash its energy bill by EUR 60 bn every year.
Europe Moves Forward – Germany Back
With Ireland now the 12th European country to adopt the German Renewable Energy Law (EEG), it looks like Germany is the standard for the advancement of renewable energy.
European Commission opens sector inquiry into gas and electricity
The inquiry responds to concerns voiced by consumers and new market entrants about the development of wholesale markets and limited consumer choice. The inquiry will examine inter alia reasons for recent energy price rises.
France, Germany, Italy and The Netherlands are the biggest importers of gas
in Europe.
Between them, the four countries import considerably more gas than the rest of
Europe put together
The plan is in response to public protests that Ford was discontinuing
the program and sending the trucks to the scrap heap after the lease.
"A very small, but committed group of people ... love these vehicles
Further deliberations on the oil scene
Tight market conditions are expected to continue for at least some more time. Over the past weeks, demand for distillates in the United States, the major global consumer, has risen nearly 7 % from last year while gasoline consumption is also up by 2.5 %.
Geologists take another look at Appalachians in search of oil
A consortium of the US Department of Energy, several states, 17 energy companies and an industry group plans an exhaustive study in search of new oil reserves beneath the Appalachian foothills. The two-year review is being sparked by record-high prices for crude oil and the country's continuing need for it.
Global warming in Africa: The hottest issue of all
All the rich nations' efforts to alleviate poverty in Africa will fail unless climate change can be checked, a coalition of British aid agencies and environment groups warns.
Greece to receive natural gas from Turkey in 2007
Greece, based on the existing contract, will begin to be supplied with natural gas from Turkey through the Greek-Turkish pipeline in early 2007.
Heavy Rain Causes Earth Tremors in German Alps
"Scientists had long suspected a connection between heavy rainfall and clusters of small quakes in this part of the Alps," he said in a statement. "The proof is a small sensation among experts."
Houses of Straw May Soon be the Norm
Whether houses, stables, warehouses, schools or sound walls – straw bales are expected to become a new trend in construction. Buildings constructed out of straw bales are very energy efficient, durable, environment friendly and even fire resistant.
How Did Your Senator Vote on legislation to reduce global warming?
Did your senator vote "Yea" or "Nay" for greenhouse gas legislation that would reduce global warming? The legislation is the McCain-Lieberman Climate Stewardship Act
Hurricane Emily Slaps Mexican Coast, South Texas
Hurricane Emily pounded the Gulf Coast along the US-Mexico border on Wednesday, driving thousands of Mexicans from their homes and knocking out power in south Texas before weakening to a tropical storm.
Iran’s next government policies to be based on energy
Member of Majlis Energy Commission noted that given current oil price, energy
will form the basis for the next government’s economic policies.
Mohsen Yahyavi told that Iran’s economy is based on oil and, therefore, its
economic policies must be based on oil revenues.
Iran's oil reserves among the world's most lasting
Iran is one of the world's most lasting oil reserves among 50 crude producing countries and its last barrel of crude is expected to be produced about 89 years from now.
Islamic Extremism Alienates Most in Muslim World
Concerns about ”Islamic extremism” and disapproval over violence motivated by it are growing in both Muslim and non-Muslim countries, according to a major new survey that also found declining support for Osama bin Laden in most of the Islamic world, with the exception of Jordan and Pakistan.
Italy should cut taxes on oil and gas to compensate for rising prices
Italian Industry Minister Claudio Scajola said the government should cut taxes on oil and gas to compensate for soaring oil prices.
Japan to Support Wind Power Electricity
Japan's government will provide funds for generating wind power in order to reach the state's output goal of 3 million kilowatts by 2010.
Minor alternative sources expected to exceed nuclear global capacity
Rocky Mountain Institute researchers doused the hype about “nuclear revival” in an icy bath of real-world data.
They documented that worldwide, the decentralized, low- or no-carbon sources of electricity -- cogeneration and renewables, all claimed by nuclear advocates to be too small and too slow to help much with climate change -- are already bigger than nuclear power and are quickly leaving it in the dust.
The most advanced of the latest UK cases refers to management of hazardous wastes, while two citations concerning wastewater treatment will be taken to the European Court of Justice.
Norway and Britain approve oil developments
Although the fields, called Blane and Enoch, are relatively small, the Norwegian oil ministry called the joint approvals "important milestones in the bilateral co-operation."
The new treaty is intended to encourage development of cross-border fields at a time when the world thirsts after more oil with crude prices at record levels of about $ 60 per barrel.
Oil production is falling fastest in Britain's North Sea
Britain suffered the steepest fall in oil production of any country last year, according to a report that will fuel fears of an end of the era of North Sea oil revenues.
Oklahoma's least productive oil wells are becoming more important
Oklahoma's least productive oil wells are becoming increasingly important as total production continues to decline across most of the country, energy industry experts say. Oklahoma oil production slipped about 1.4 % in 2004 to 63.7 mm barrels, mirroring a similar decline across the onshore United States.
OPEC president satisfied with fall in global crude prices KUNA
OPEC unable to meet future oil demand in 10-15 years
The Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), the oil cartel, will be unable to meet western countries' demand projections in 10 to 15 years, Saudi energy officials have warned US and European governments.
"PlameGate" Is Hardly a Summer Squall
The case may also prove to be one more string -- albeit a very central one -- that, if pulled with sufficient determination, could well unravel a very tangled ball of yarn, and one that would confirm recent revelations in the British press -- the so-called Downing Street memo -- that the Bush administration was ”fixing the facts” about the alleged threat posed by Iraqi President Saddam Hussein in order to grease the rails to war.
Many folks would be sweltering in the dark, their computers blank, the refreshing hum of air conditioners silent, if this week's combination of high temperatures and high power demand happened four years ago.
California ISO had expected state peak power usage Monday to set an all-time record of 45,831 megawatts. Instead, demand peaked at 43,679 megawatts, well short of the record.
Proposed NRC rule will track sealed sources
Quenching America's thirst for oil
The United States consumes a quarter of the world's oil, compared to 8 % for China. Even with high Chinese growth expected in coming years, the world will not run out of oil anytime soon. Over a trillion barrels of proven reserves exist, and more is likely to be found. But two-thirds of those proven reserves are in the Gulf, and are thus vulnerable to disruption.
Despite promises, producers are incapable of increasing extraction -- refineries around the world are already working at full tilt. In Iraq, attacks on oil installations continue to be reported, in Nigeria there is a growing threat of attacks on the foreign personnel of oil corporations, and in the Caribbean the hurricane season has begun in earnest.
Russia reports on oil production
Production of oil and gas condensate in Russia in January-June 2005 amounted to 230.277 mm tons, which was 3 % more than in the same period in 2004.
Russia seeks more American investment
Russian President Vladimir Putin pledged to supply more oil to the American market, while at the same time urging more US investment in Russia. Meeting with top executives from US corporations, Putin said Russia would continue to expand output of oil and natural gas and expected to ship 50 mm tons of oil annually to the US.
Simulated oil meltdown shows US economy's vulnerability
Former CIA Director Robert Gates sighs deeply as he pores over reports of growing unrest in Nigeria. Many Americans can't find the African nation on a map, but Gates knows that it's America's fifth-largest oil supplier and one that provides the light, sweet crude that US refiners prefer.
Some $ 13 bn to be spent on marine renewable energy by 2009
In the next five years some $ 13.6 bn will be spent on offshore installations of marine renewable energy projects, mainly located offshore Europe.
Stop worrying about oil at $ 60 a barrel
A good rule of thumb in economics is that if French President Jacques Chirac says it, it must be wrong. You just need to figure out why.
The Arab economy during the oil boom
World demand for energy will have a positive impact on economic growth rates in the Arab region in 2005, just as the year before, when world demand for oil and OPEC production rose by 3.4 % and 7.1 %
The future challenges and prospects of the Iraqi oil industry
Iraq is considered one of the biggest oil producers and exporters in the world. However, since 1980 its oil industry has suffered significantly from wars, sanctions, negligence and lack of maintenance, and, since the last war, from sabotage and looting.
Consequently the industry faces a number of challenges; but with the provision
of security and finance it has huge positive prospects.
Three months ago, when gas prices hit $ 2 and oil was at more than $ 50 a barrel, the administration said relief would come because Saudi Arabia had agreed to increase short-term production, and would spend $ 50 bn to increase output over the next decade. Earlier, gas prices were climbing higher and oil hit $ 60 a barrel. Some predict it can go over $ 100, maybe as high as $ 200.
The significance of Iranian gas reserves
The prospects for profit are especially high in South Asian countries like India and Pakistan, where natural gas reserves are low and energy demand exceeds energy supply.
British oil production fell 11 % in April, continuing the past year's trend of declining production, according to the latest Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) Oil and Gas index.
UK government releases first statistics on renewables
During the passing of the act there was a prolonged battle over whether the government should formally agree it was responsible for the security of the UK's energy supplies or not. Some feared that if government took responsibility, it might end up having to interfere in the free energy markets.
UN to investigate climate threat
The expert team will look at the global warming effects on World Heritage Sites and devise strategic response programmes to combat the issue.
US methanol curve in contango amid supply concerns
The forecast loss in supplies is due to both current and upcoming unit outages.
US retail power sales fall in May, but prices rise 3.7%
2004 on mild weather across much of the country
Venezuela has the largest oil reserves in the world
President Hugo Chavez says Venezuela has the largest oil reserves in the world and he plans to show the world that Venezuela's proven oil reserves have been underestimated and that they easily outweigh previously proven oil deposits in the Middle East.
Venezuela signs energy pact with 13 Caribbean states
Oil exporter Venezuela signed an energy cooperation pact with 13 Caribbean states, including Cuba, in a move that strengthened Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez's political challenge to US influence in the region.
Wal-Mart Experiments with Environmentally Friendly Store in Texas
"We don't expect everything to work, but with every component of our business, we want to be more sustainable, more economical or more environmentally responsible."
For the past few years, U.S. citizens have lived with an increasingly secretive government. This increasing secrecy, which accelerated sharply after attacks of Sep. 11, 2001, is estimated to cost taxpayers more than eight billion dollars annually and is drawing protests from a growing array of politicians and activists
Water and Crohn’s link dismissed, research says
The Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI) commissioned report, carried out by the University of East Anglia (UEA), was the result of a two year project into the diets and lifestyles of Crohn’s sufferers that attempted to whether there was any association with drinking water and pasteurised milk and developing the disease.
What is the fair price of oil?
On several occasions in the last three decades, a number OPEC oil ministers described oil prices as "fair". In the last few months, it has become fashionable for OPEC ministers to described oil prices as "fair".
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
World Bank to Take Lead in New Climate Change Plan
The World Bank wants to bring together nations split over the Kyoto Protocol to work out a new plan that would remain effective long beyond the 2012 expiration of the climate change treaty.
Wyoming lawmaker seeks Abandoned Mine Land deal
A Wyoming lawmaker has called a high-level meeting to try to come up with a deal that would extend the federal program to clean up abandoned coal mines.
July 20, 2005
Wind power is coming of age. But the policies needed to support further growth are in question and are creating a host of economic uncertainties. What now?
Academic Study Discredits Ethanol, Biodiesel
"There is just no energy benefit to using plant biomass for liquid fuel,"
"There is just no energy benefit to using plant biomass for liquid fuel,"
says David Pimentel, professor of ecology and agriculture at Cornell. "These
strategies are not sustainable."
The study found that: corn requires 29 percent more fossil energy than the fuel produced; switch grass requires 45 percent more fossil energy than the fuel produced; and wood biomass requires 57 percent more fossil energy than the fuel produced.
Some comments on the story Academic Study Discredits Ethanol, Biodiesel
There have been huge technology improvements in the ethanol industry in just the past 5 years. The heat recovery systems alone have increased efficiencies by at least 50 % in the past 3 years alone . I am sure that if the Professors were using current technology numbers instead of industry numbers of 20 to 30 years ago, the conclusions would be very different.
Angry Farmers Force Closure of China Plant
Chinese farmers have attacked a pharmaceutical plant and forced it to close, angered that its chemical waste was ruining their village's crops, polluting its river and harming their health, officials and residents said.
Despite a Communist leadership intent on maintaining stability in the world's most populous nation, the standoff was the latest in a string of protests to rock rural China as the government grapples with anger over corruption and a growing gap between rich and poor.
Asian ministers pledge more support for renewables
Countries in Asia will intensify their efforts to promote partnership in the promotion of solar, wind, geothermal, hydro and biomass energy, according to a statement by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations... increase the share of renewable energy in power generation in the region to 10% by 2010
Con Edison Sets New Record for Electric Usage
Con Edison announced today that the company hit a new record for peak electric demand at 3:00 p.m. this afternoon when 12,250 megawatts were provided, topping the prior record of 12,207 megawatts set on August 9, 2001. Three of the top 10 electric peak loads of all time have been reached this summer.
Conference OKs coal title except Clean Air Coal
Congress approves higher fuel-efficiency targets
Consumers could see more energy savings thanks to a proposal adopted by Congress on Tuesday calling for tougher appliance standards, voluntary efficiency improvements by industry, and extended daylight savings time.
EU Commission Weighs Environment against Industry
Can the European Union reduce air pollution without creating financial havoc for industry? Can it protect marine life without generating prohibitive costs?
House, Senate Take up Widely Different Energy Bills Amid Attempts to Resolve Dispute
"We expect that the conferees will meet regularly and that staff will be working around the clock on resolving differences, such that a final version of the Energy Bill will be voted on before the August recess."
Italy Shuts Beach after Toxic Algae Surfaces
Environmental experts have closed a stretch of beach near the northern Italian city of Genoa after toxic algae poisoned dozens of bathers...
"It has been very hot recently and the sea has been very calm, which probably encouraged this phenomenon."
Japan Seeks Better Way to Introduce Bio-Gasoline
After a delayed attempt, Japan's government is seeking a better way to blend gasoline with environmentally friendly ethanol and put such fuel on the retail market in as early as 2008 to cut greenhouse gas emissions.
New England's Electricity Use Sets New All-Time Record
New England's electricity use reached an all-time high today, but the power system operated under normal conditions
Portugal Pins Energy Hopes on Wind Farm Licenses
Portugal's Socialist government said on Monday it would grant licenses within six months to build massive stretches of wind farms, as part of a 2.5 billion-euro ($3-billion) investment plan in renewable energy.
RBRC Reports Increase in Battery Recycling
The Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corp. (RBRC), a public service organization promoting the recycling of portable rechargeable batteries, has reported that a total of 2,259,635 lbs of rechargeable batteries was collected in the United States and Canada through its Call2Recycle program during the first six months of 2005 -- an increase of nine percent from the same time period in 2004
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 072005
Solar activity was at very low levels. The visible solar disk remains spotless. No significant activity was observed during the period. No new regions were numbered today.
Satellite Sunshine Mapping Benefits Solar Energy
Satellite data on solar energy levels is increasingly an essential part of solar project development in Europe.
Series of marches to protest Massey facilities
Environmental activists and coalfield residents on Monday announced three days of marches to protest Massey Energy facilities along the Coal River Valley.
SIDS Linked to Nitrogen Dioxide Pollution
High outdoor levels of nitrogen dioxide apparently raise the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), according to California-based researchers.
Solar Energy Generation Grows Dramatically in Oregon
"Oregon has installed more solar electric systems in the last two and a half years than it did in the last 20 years combined."
Threat to economic expansion from higher energy prices Greenspan
U.S. groups ask Congress to provide additional incentives for renewables
Energy groups in the United States want Congress to provide national standards for interconnection and net metering for distributed renewable energy technologies.
U.S. rural residents offered US$200 million in loans to invest in renewables
Guaranteed loan funds of US$200 million are available to agriculture producers and rural small businesses that invest in renewable energy systems and energy efficiency improveme
Uranium powder poses little hazard at Canon City, Colo., plant, NRC says
July 19, 2005
BEGINNING FARMERS AND RANCHERS ADVISORY COMMITTEE TO HOLD PUBLIC MEETING
Farmers, ranchers and the general public are invited to attend the USDA’s Advisory Committee meeting on Beginning Farmers and Ranchers on Aug. 8-9, 2005, in Omaha, Neb.
Bush Opens Door to Nuclear Help for India
President George W. Bush, in a dramatic policy shift, promised India full cooperation on Monday in developing its civilian nuclear power program in return for New Delhi's commitment to adhere to international regimes aimed at curbing arms proliferation.
Can Negawatts Compete with Megawatts
The question of whether negawatts - energy conservation - could and should compete with megawatts (MW) of generating capacity was debated in the early 1990s with the overall result that subsidies required for negawatt (NW) programs did not produce sufficient benefits to justify the cost.
China Evacuates 600,000 after Typhoon Lashes Taiwan
China evacuated over 600,000 people from coastal areas on Monday after typhoon Haitang slammed into Taiwan, killing up to four people, injuring 25 and forcing offices, schools and markets to shut across the island.
Chirac Asks French Not to Waste Water During Summer Dry Spell
President Jacques Chirac urged the French on Monday not to waste water as the country copes with a spell of sizzling, arid weather that has forced several regions to impose restrictions to conserve water.
Conferees agree on nuclear section of energy bill
Today, a fractured three judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals here failed to resolve the question of whether the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has the authority and responsibility to regulate the pollutants that cause global warming.
If New Yorkers want clean drinking water, they should ante up
and pay for it.
That's the word from Putnam County Executive
ENERCOM RELEASES ENERGY COMPARISON TOOL - A NEW ONLINE ENERGY APPLICATION
Enercom, Inc. has released an entirely new online energy information application for energy utilities and their customers. Enercom's new "Comparison Tool" provides specific information to customers who are replacing their existing home heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems or water heaters.
EU launches sustainable energy campaign
The targets include an increase in the share of renewable energy up to 12 percent by 2010, and estimated savings in energy consumption of 20 percent by 2020.
IESO appeals for reduced electricity consumption as hot weather strains system
The Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) is asking consumers to reduce their use of electricity for the remainder of the week as record hot weather continues to put a strain on Ontario's electricity system.
Indian Power Sector - Is it Recovering in a Real Sense - A Wider Scenario
Not everybody is getting adequate power because of the high amount of corruption and nepotism existing in the country. It is in fact so much so deep rooted that it becomes difficult rather a humongous task to uproot it.
IPE Brent extends losses after Hurricane Emily eases in Gulf
Electric Utilities' Customers Set Summer Record for Electricity Use
Customers of PPL Electric Utilities set a summer record for electricity use Monday afternoon (7/18).
Rains Bring Hope to Niger's Starving Farmers
Rains on Niger's dust-blown fields have kindled hopes a devastating drought may be ending, but relief workers warned on Monday that more aid was needed to save starving children.
SPACE WEATHER ADVISORY OUTLOOK 05- 29
Outlook For July 20-26
Category G1 – (minor) and G2 – (moderate) geomagnetic storming is possible
on 20 - 22 July due to high speed solar winds from a coronal hole on the Sun.
States Aim to Attract Ecotourists
They might not be expecting the organic garden. Or the $5 discount for arriving in a carpool or a fuel-efficient car. They might not notice that the fluffy guest towels, when they aren't so fluffy anymore, get reused as cleaning rags -- and when the towels' natural fibers break down enough, they join the compost pile.
“by early next century, natural gas will have become more of an energy problem than an energy solution”
UK forward month gas price averaged 12 higher in June than in May
UK prices for delivery over the gas year--starting this October--averaged 52p/th in June, 12% higher than they had been in May,
Uranium Price Triples to Record Peak, Seen Higher
Prices of uranium, the fuel used in most of the world's nuclear power plants, have tripled in the last five years to record levels due to years of under-investment in the supply chain
US congressional negotiators reach deal on parts of energy bill
US issues new rule to cover growing use of floating platforms
W.Va. DEP halts Massey coal silo work while state reviews permit
DEP found inaccuracies in the boundaries, said Jessica Greenhouse, DEP spokeswoman. The governor had met with citizens groups complaining about the proximity of the silo to an elementary school.
Who Pays? Power Producers Watching Energy Bill in Congress
Major power producers and merchant generator plant operators are closely monitoring the Energy Bill working its way through Congress, especially the language that would determine who pays for expensive infrastructure upgrades to handle the increased load from new power plants that have cropped up throughout the Southeast.
Zimbabwe Says to Reopen Ethanol Fuel Plant - Paper
Zimbabwe is to recommission an ethanol plant and resume research into the use of vegetable oils to boost its transport fuel supplies
Oil fuels the modern world. No other substance can equal the enormous impact which the use of oil has had on so many people, so rapidly, in so many ways, and in so many places around the world.
Brazil Considers Moratorium on Amazon Logging
The government could ban logging in Brazilian forests for up to a year to slow destruction of the Amazon rainforest, the country's environment minister said Friday.
Coal is trying to clean its image. And developments in technology along with public and private investment are making progress possible.
Court Rejects Effort by States to Force Bush Administration to Regulate Greenhouse Gases
States lost a bid Friday to force the Bush administration to regulate heat-trapping industrial gases that have been blamed for global warming.
Singapore Opens Garbage Landfill Island to Tourists
The Singapore government has opened a landfill island, made entirely from garbage incinerator ash, to its citizens in a bid to share its "rich natural environment."
Study Says Ethanol Not Worth the Energy
Farmers, businesses and state officials are investing millions of dollars in ethanol and biofuel plants as renewable energy sources, but a new study says the alternative fuels burn more energy than they produce.
U.S. Household Electricity Report
Figures on electric consumption by end-use households.
July 18, 2005
American_water_announces_Pilot_Program in Water Loss Management
The American Society of Civil Engineers states that "each day, six billion gallons of clean, treated drinking water disappears, mostly due to old, leaky pipes and mains...enough water to serve the population of a state the size of California."
At_least_11_firefighters_die_in Spanish Forest Fire
At least 11 firefighters were killed on Sunday in a forest fire raging out of control along a 17-km (10-mile) front in central Spain
Australia_mulls_nuclear_dump_in Remote Desrt Heart
Australia's government is considering dumping radioactive waste in the nation's remote desert heart, just a few hundred kilometres from the iconic Uluru monolith once known as Ayers Rock.
Barton_plans_to_write_nuclear_waste bill
A House committee chairman plans to begin writing a nuclear waste bill this fall that would remove barriers holding up Yucca Mountain
Businessman_looks_to_sell hydrogen injector for cars
Hydrogen fuel technology for cars may be a lot closer to a cheap, commercial application than commonly thought.
Canada Thursday became the 16th nation to join the U.S. EPA's Methane to Markets Partnership to reduce emissions of the greenhouse gas methane.
Centralized Planning -- A Guest Commentary
We pretend otherwise, but California’s energy sector is planned as centrally as any old line communist state. Every aspect of our complicated electricity system has to be approved by a state bureaucrat, usually at the request of a monopoly utility that has its hands permanently in our pockets. And virtually every fuel source, from solar to nuclear, is heavily subsidized.
CFCL Installs Fuel Cell Generator in Australian Office
The fuel-cell-powered, small and smart, combined heat and power (CHP) unit supplies 1 kW electricity and heat for hot water.
China Turns to Garbage Power for Electricity
East China's Fujian Province will start to build its largest garbage disposal plant into the country's large garbage power plant by the end of July, which expects to produce 100m kWh of electricity upon completion.
China_to_reduce_three_million_tons of greenhouse gases with renewable energy project
China will reduce three million tons of climate altering greenhouse gases with the signing of an emission reductions purchase agreement under the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) of the Kyoto Protocol.
The Tallahassee City Commission voted Wednesday to join a group of public utilities that wants to build a coal-fired power plant in North Florida, but unlike the 1991 commission that made a similar move, commissioners opted to put the issue to the voters.
Dangerous_hurricane_emily_roars toward Mexico
Hurricane Emily howled toward Mexico's Caribbean coast on Sunday bearing 145 mph (235 kph) winds and torrential rain and causing panic in Cancun as tourists fled resorts and sought shelter with locals.
Democratic_state_governors_urge Bush to take 'bold' energy steps
Desalination is $2 Billion Market for Water Treatment Products
DOE_announces_new_hydrogen_cost goal
In 2005, the Department of Energy developed a new hydrogen cost goal and methodology. The previous hydrogen cost goal of $1.50/gasoline gallon equivalent (gge, delivered, untaxed, 2001$, by 2010) was developed in 2002, and was based on hydrogen produced from distributed natural gas reforming.
Drinking_water_security_to_be_major topic at conference
drinking water security will be a featured topic at the upcoming InfraGard 2005 National Conference.
Enron_agrees_to_settle_price-gouging claims
The settlement will end market manipulation and price gouging claims against the once high-flying Houston-based company, California Attorney General Bill Lockyer said Friday. The agreement requires approval by the bankruptcy court and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.
EU_executive_shames_states_over Environmental Laws
The European Union's executive branch slammed France, Greece, Britain and Spain for breaches of EU environmental law on Friday and warned them to take action to comply with the bloc's rules
First Nations Leaders Demand Inclusion in Great Lakes Watershed Discussions
General Electric Co. on Friday posted a 24 percent rise in quarterly profit on a return to profit growth at its energy business and steady growth at its financial units.
High_natural_gas_price_makes_gas at stinky dumps a sweet fuel
Jim Voss hopes his company will make a fortune out of garbage - from methane gas produced when tons of trash decay in landfills across the nation.
House, Senate Take up Widely Different Energy Bills Amid Attempts to Resolve Dispute
A dispute over a gasoline additive could jeopardize hopes for an agreement as the Senate and House worked on Thursday to forge a compromise to deal with the nation's energy problems.
Hydrogen_economy_needs_serious_U.S. commitment
Commentator Jeremy Rifkin thinks it's time to get the hydrogen economy into high gear. He says that in order for the United States to rid itself of its fossil fuel dependence, it needs to launch a program similar to President Kennedy's space race.
Hydrogen_to_meet_global_energy_needs - Australian Resources Minister
Hydrogen power will eventually solve the world's impending energy crisis, federal Industry and Resources Minister Ian Macfarlane said today.
IPE_brent_rebounds_as_hurricane
Italian_village_pins_survival_hope on wind farms
The small, medieval village of Alberona dies after lunch. Only a strong wind sweeps through its empty cobble-stoned streets.
Lords blast energy plan' disgrace'
THE government has to get an urgent grip on the UK's huge waste of energy if it is to limit the country's contribution to climate change, according to a highly critical new report from the House of Lords.
Midwest_governors_to_cooperate_on Grid
New_assistance_for_states_on_growth Issues Announced
NRC_proposes_fine_for_sleeping_sleeping supervisor incident at Entergy
involving a control room supervisor who fell asleep for several minutes while
on duty June 29, 2004.
Nuclear_energy_tops_indian_pm's Agenda in the US
India's prime minister visits the United States next week hoping to seal a growing friendship with Washington with a landmark deal over sharing nuclear technology and backing for a UN Security Council seat.
Opec_sees_2006_world_oil_demand
Plug_power_surges_with_large_sale of fuel cells
Tyco Electronics Power Systems, Inc. bought 63 GenCore backup fuel cell systems and resold them to a U.S. telecommunications company.
Proton_laboratories_assigned_use
Romanian Floods Kill Five, Leave Thousands Homeless
The death toll this month in Romania's worst floods for 50 years reached 21 on Friday, with thousands left homeless, as villagers in the worst-hit east waged a frantic battle to salvage livelihoods.
Seven_governors_urge_president_to_promote lead on energy
Governors from the Midwest, West, and Northeast today urged President Bush to lead a national project to achieve energy independence within a decade in an open letter to the White House.
Startup_coins_new_way_to_harvest hydrogen
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.
Two_men_charged_with_violating_clean act violation
Us_ferc_chief_applauds_enroncal
applauded the proposed settlement Enron reached with commission staff and
California parties resolving allegations
Remember the electric car? General Motors invested more than $1 billion in the Earth-friendly EV1 but managed to lease only 800 before shutting down the entire program - because, in part, people had too few places to plug in the cars. Now the cash-strapped carmaker has placed another billion-dollar bet, this time on hydrogen fuel cells
July 15, 2005
A puzzling drop in China's oil consumption
The International Energy Agency on Wednesday lowered its estimate of global oil demand this year, citing a sudden and mysterious drop in Chinese consumption. After growing 11 percent in 2003 and 15.4 percent last year, China's oil use dropped by 1 percent in the second quarter of this year from a year earlier, the agency said.
Agrium says gas supply deal to keep Alaska fertilizer plant open
contracts with Cook Inlet producers that will allow it to keep its Kenai,
Alaska, fertilizer plant open through November 2006.
ASEAN, China, Japan, South Korea to enhance energy cooperation
ASEAN, China, Japan, South Korea to enhance energy cooperation
Compostable plastic is a relatively new, environmentally friendly option for packaging material. Yet how popular and applicable is it proving to be? A German study and wider European experience provide some clues.
Benton County, Wash., gets $1.3 million in energy deal
The $3.5 million the Bonneville Power Administration paid the state to delay major demolition work at two never finished nuclear power plants north of Richland is well on its way to being spent.
Biogas power station to be built in central Hungary
A total of 90,000 tons of organic manure and waste from local farms will be used to produce enough electricity to supply 4,000-5,000 households a year
California's Million Solar Roofs Bill Passes Second Assembly Committee
California's Assembly Housing and Community Development Committee passed the Million Solar Roofs bill, SB 1, last week with a bi-partisan vote of 6-1. The Housing Committee vote came after another favorable vote, 7-0, in the Assembly Utilities and Commerce Committee.
Chemical Characteristics of Ground-Water Discharge Grand Canyon National Park
Population growth on the Coconino Plateau has increased the demand for additional development of ground-water resources, and such development could reduce spring discharge and affect the sustainability of riparian areas within the park.
China keen to buy Australian Northern Territory uranium
Coal industry consultant urges speedy mine permitting
A coal industry consultant told lawmakers the state should act to take advantage of the boom in coal prices.
Conversion of Coal-Fired Power Plants Presents Opportunities for Renewable Energy Industry
Green Energy Resources has confirmed Alstom of Sweden will convert Scottish Southern Energy's (SSE) Power Plant at Fiddlers Ferry (UK), to biomass and co-firing power generation from coal.
Drought-Hit North Africa seen Hunting for Grains
Drought is taking its toll on North Africa with top grain buyers Algeria and Morocco set for their biggest shortfall in five years, official and industry sources told Reuters.
Emily Swells into Dangerous Hurricane in Caribbean
Growing Hurricane Emily battered houses and flooded roads in Grenada and Trinidad and Tobago on Thursday as it streaked into the southeastern Caribbean Sea with 100 mph (160 kph) winds.
EU Environment Chief Presses for Air Quality Change
New measures to improve Europe's air quality, put on hold last week, would cost up to 12 billion euros ($14.63 billion) but generate health benefits worth four times that, the European Union's environment chief said on Thursday
as Technology Institute (GTI) has successfully demonstrated that chicken litter can be gasified to produce hydrogen and generate electricity using a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC).
High oil prices fail to cap demand
OIL prices are set to rise further after the International Energy Agency said demand would accelerate next year in a sign that prices of $60 a barrel have done little to restrain economic growth.
Honda Delivers FCX Fuel Cell Vehicle to First Individual Customer
American Honda Motor Co., Inc. recently announced the lease of its FCX, an advanced hydrogen-powered fuel cell vehicle, to the world’s first individual customers, Jon and Sandy Spallino of Redondo Beach, Calif.
India Can't Commit to Kyoto Targets - UN Climate Head
India will be unable to commit to greenhouse gas emission targets when the first phase of the Kyoto treaty ends in 2012 as its energy-hungry economy is developing fast, the top UN climate expert said on Thursday.
Indigenous Women Help Preserve Biodiversity
Indigenous people in Colombia's Amazon jungle region use a garden for just two or three years before abandoning it to clear a new one somewhere else, thus practising sustainable agriculture in an exuberant but fragile environment where the soil is extremely poor.
Litter-Strewn Mexico Steps Up Plastic Recycling
Mexico has opened the first plant in Latin America to make new soft drink bottles from old ones, hoping to double its recycling of PET plastic and dent an atrocious record for dealing with household waste.
Mayor's vote may break coal tie
New Hawaii Law Says Homeowner Associations Must Allow Solar Energy Devices
Hawaii Governor Linda Lingle recently signed Act 157 (originally House Bill 1017). The new law requires homeowner associations to adopt rules that allow placement of solar energy devices on single-family dwellings covered by an association.
Officials Issue Statewide Power Alert
The California Independent System Operator (ISO) has triggered a statewide power warning based on the threat of energy reserves getting too low today.
Purvin & Gertz revises down end-2005 Asia LPG forecast
Recasting Colonialism as a Good Thing
In a law passed on Feb. 23, the French parliament, dominated by President Jacques Chirac's right-leaning Union for a Popular Movement (UMP), demanded that teachers at schools all over the country and textbooks emphasise "the positive role (played by) France overseas, especially in the Maghreb region" in North Africa.
Scientists Raise Alarm About Ocean Health
With a record number of dead seabirds washing up on West
Coast beaches from Central California to British Columbia, marine biologists are
raising the alarm about rising ocean temperatures and dwindling plankton
populations.
"Something big is going on out there,"
Shell Solar’s Rural Operation Installs 100,000th Solar Home System
Last month Shell Solar’s Rural Operation division celebrated the sale and installation of more than 100,000 Solar Home Systems in just over five years. Today, Rural Operations is active in India, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, China and Indonesia, and personnel now numbers more than 900 across the five countries.
SiGNa Chemistry Develops Hydrogen Production Method
SiGNa Chemistry LLC reported that it has come up with a new way to produce hydrogen, which could be incorporated into fuel cells that could generate enough electricity to run a cell phone for a week, or a car in emergency situations.
Solar firm wins tax break for plant
North Carolina-based Solargenix Energy LLC on Wednesday received more than $15 million in incentives from the Nevada Commission on Economic Development for its proposed solar energy power plant in Boulder City.
Task force recommends NNSA consolidate nuclear weapons activities
activities, from warhead production to dismantlement, at one site and that
DOE's National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) immediately begin its
site selection process.
UK energy 'is badly regulated and taxed too highly' Users launch a wide-ranging attack
BRITAIN'S most intensive users of energy have blasted the Government for a lack of transparency in gas and electricity markets, ineffective regulation and high taxation.
UK power traders taken by surprise as Winter 05 collapses on gas
the opening trade as gas prices crashed, traders said.
US House Keeps MTBE Protection in Energy Bill
The US House of Representatives on Thursday narrowly voted to keep intact language in a broad energy bill that protects Exxon Mobil Corp. and other makers of a water-fouling gasoline additive from lawsuits.
Unborn Babies Soaked in Chemicals, Survey Finds
Unborn U.S. babies are soaking in a stew of chemicals, including mercury, gasoline byproducts and pesticides, according to a report to be released Thursday.
US lawmakers seek permanent drilling bans in Florida, California
legislation this week to permanently ban oil and gas drilling in certain areas
of Florida and California.
Vietnam expected to export 9 mln tonnes of coal to China
During the first half of the year, coal exports to China jumped 83 per cent on-year to 4.3 million tonnes.
Washington Man's Wind Generator is Silenced
When Gerry Greenfield received an old surplus wind generator and steel tower from a friend in Tehachapi, Calif., his only cost was the drive.
Water demand is met by pumping ground water from aquifers or by conveying surface water through a system of reservoirs and canals. Water-withdrawal data provide important information on how water demand affects the State's water resources. Information on water withdrawals
Map of monthly-average streamflow for the month of the year
State regulators allowed Massey Energy to start building a new coal silo more than two months before permits for the project were approved, Department of Environmental Protection records show.
WorldWater & Power Achieves Major Milestone in $7.8 Million Solar Electric Project
WorldWater & Power Corp. (OTCBB:WWAT), maker of proprietary high-power solar systems, today announced that grid reconnection with San Diego Gas & Electric has been secured by Farm ACW of Fallbrook, California
July 14, 2005
ASEAN Avoids Tough Issues, Touts Biofuel as Oil Fix
Southeast Asian nations pledged on Wednesday to pursue alternative energy to blunt the future impact of $60 oil, but sidestepped any political measures that might provide more immediate relief.
Asian oil demand falling oil price collapse likely MS
Statistics from several countries already reflect weakening demand. China reported that it imported 1.3% less crude, and 21% less refined products than June 2004
At FocusEarth.com, Environmental Stewardship
If you consider successful planet-conscious investing an idealist’s pipedream, think again.
Bill giving Oregon consumers ownership of utility awaits governor's signature
Theirs is one of three competing efforts to mount a public takeover of PGE, including one by the Legislature and one by the city of Portland. PGE is owned by Enron and is the state's largest utility, with 765,000 ratepayers.
BP boss asks for cash to help oil giants go green
BRITAIN'S oil giants should get cash help from the Government so they can work towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the chief executive of BP said today.
Europe Greenhouse Gas Trade Hots Up as Prices Soar
Trade in greenhouse gas emissions is hotting up in Europe as carbon dioxide prices surge and companies buy and sell credits worth hundreds of millions of euros.
Exxon Mobil again Targeted by Protesters
A dozen environmental and liberal-advocacy groups organized protests against Exxon Mobil Corp. on Tuesday to object to the oil giant's effort to expand oil drilling in Alaska and to cast doubt on the science of global warming.
Groups accuse Wisconsin Public Service of violating Clean Air Act
Two environmental groups said Tuesday they plan to sue Wisconsin Public Service under the Clean Air Act over emissions from its coal-fired power plant in Green Bay.
INTERVIEW - Johnson Controls sees Growth in Hybrid Batteries
Johnson Controls Inc., the world's largest producer of lead-acid car batteries, hopes to break into the growing market of hybrid cars and trucks to help fuel growth, an executive said.
New Mexico lab helps design a better turbine blade
Promising initial tests show designs and technology developed by Sandia National Laboratories could allow wind turbines to produce power in lighter breezes.
New Zealand Greenhouse gas output skyrockets
Overall emissions have risen more than 22 per cent since 1990 -- the year used as a benchmark -- with the greatest gains coming from the energy sector
President George W. Bush and his top officials are studiously pretending not to notice, but here in the most bizarre country in the world, the Dear Leader, Kim Jong Il, is throwing down a nuclear gauntlet at Bush's feet.
Nuclear Industry to discuss ways to guarantee enrichment supply
"At some point, the oil market will abandon the fiction of endless Asian or Chinese demand, and when the expectation turns, oil prices are likely to collapse."
Residents Show More Resistance to Wind Farms
Nobody can stop the wind from blowing, but some groups across Western New York are finding they can delay wind prospectors from making money from it.
Rhode Island Businesses That Conserve Energy May Get State Help
Romanian Floods Kill Five, Leave Thousands Homeless
Floods have killed five people and left thousands more homeless in Romania in recent days, bringing the total death toll since the start of the month to 11.
Ontario reports record power use
The hot weather continues to push Ontario's supply of electricity to the limit.
Record power use as mercury reaches record 102 degrees in Reno
Sierra Pacific Power Co. reported an all-time record use of electricity in northern Nevada Tuesday as the high temperature soared to a record 102 degrees in Reno.
SMUD Heat wave may drive energy use to new record
Continued triple-digit heat in Sacramento is expected to drive energy use to a new record Wednesday, according to the Sacramento Municipal Utility District.
Twenty-Five Organizations Submit Policy Recommendations to Congressional Energy Bill Conferees
The signers to the letter urged the conferees to "set the country on a path to substantially reduce the level of energy imports, reduce emissions of greenhouse gases, and begin the transition towards a sustainable energy economy by dramatically increasing the use of domestically available renewable energy resources and energy efficient technologies."
US Congress deal on MTBE include special fund
supplies through a "special trust fund" under a possible compromise
deal
US Gulf oil gas damage from Dennis extremely light
"The path of the hurricane carried it mostly over open water with no oil and gas operations."
US spot methanol ignores overall energy gains
A producer source added that "[natural] gas is pretty much irrelevant to
methanol, as we have almost no domestic production anymore."
Wells Fargo Announces 10-Point Environmental Commitment
Wells Fargo & Company today announced a 10-point Environmental Commitment to more effectively integrate environmental responsibility into its business practices and procedures.
UK needs mix of energy sources to meet future needs
Wind power will have no effect on climate change
SIR - Jonathon Porritt, the chairman of the Sustainable Development Commission, has said that "climate change will have a devastating impact unless urgent action is taken to boost the contribution of renewables ... We believe wind power is a critically important part of the overall energy mix.''
He is selling a delusion.
July 13, 2005
As Landfills Close in Big Cities, Garbage Travels Farther
The trains that rumble from the Harlem River rail yard in the
South Bronx are sealed tight, but there is no mistaking what lies inside them.
The stench gives it away.
As solar gets smaller, its future gets brighter
Investors along Sand Hill Road in Menlo Park are pouring money into solar nanotech startups, hoping that thinking small will translate into big profits.
Australians are among the most willing national groups to support the environment and use green energy. Indeed, the number of households in Australia consuming accredited green power is expected to expand rapidly over the next two to three years.
Beating Swords into Wind Turbines
"What could we have accomplished toward building a renewable future here
in North America instead of launching a war in the oil-rich heart of the Persian
Gulf?"
- Paul Gipe
California has potential for 150 GW of wind capacity
“California has one of the most diverse electricity supply systems in the nation with a large potential to generate electricity from renewable sources, such as wind, biomass, geothermal, hydroelectric and solar,”
California must put more effort behind state RPS
The California Energy Commission and California Public Utilities Commission should dedicate additional staff to process the state’s Renewable Portfolio Standard, according to a consultant who was asked to evaluate the RPS.
Coast Guard hears concerns about LNG
A U.S. Coast Guard meeting Monday to hear concerns from the public on maritime safety and security of a proposed liquefied natural gas terminal in the Port of Long Beach followed a pretty familiar pattern.
EU Threatens Court Action against 11 Member States Noise Pollution
The European Union head office on Monday has threatened to take 11 EU countries to court unless they introduce new rules to tackle noise pollution.
Europe to install 1,249 MW of solar thermal this year
The solar thermal industry in Europe will install 1,248,940 kW of thermal capacity during 2005, according to the latest statistics from the European Solar Thermal Industry Federation.
Ex-Im Bank Offers New Terms for Renewable Energy
Beyond their environmental benefits, renewable energy technologies are increasingly viewed as potent economic job engines. With this in mind, the Export-Import Bank of the United States is doing its part to help U.S. companies take advantage of overseas markets
Foreign Energy Giants Withdraw from China
While China is being proud of the annual foreign direct investment of USD 50 billion, the once hot-pursuit electric power industry sees a round of withdrawals of investments. The media reported that a good number of international electric power giants are about to leave China
France Steps up Water Curbs as Drought Intensifies
France extended water rationing to more than half the country on Monday as its worst drought in decades intensified and farmers said food output might suffer.
Gleneagles plan ‘major step forward’
UK Environment Secretary Margaret Beckett has called the outcome of the G8’s climate change talks at Gleneagles a ‘major step forward’ in terms of international recognition and action on the subject.
Green light for wind farm growth
The Scottish Borders-based plant, when the extension is up and running, will generate 164 megawatts (MW) of energy. The news has been praised by BWEA, which said that the decision meant that the wind industry in UK ‘had firmly arrived’.
Hot, Dry Weather Wilts US Corn Crop
Hot, dry weather in Illinois, Indiana and Ohio will cut the US corn harvest by at least 1 billion bushels -- a massive 8.6 percent -- from last year's record, the government said Tuesday.
Hurricane Dennis Fixes Botched Florida Reef
Mother Nature tidied up a man-made mess off the coast of the Florida Keys when the force of Hurricane Dennis flipped a sunken US Navy ship into the perfect position to help form an artificial reef.
Investors seek climate change plans from 43 power companies
McGuinty Government Opens The Door To More Green Power
Request For Up To 200 Megawatts Of Renewable Energy Targets Small And Medium-Sized Projects
News July05/New York Author Trails her Trash in Garbage Land.htm
Author Elizabeth Royte went on a yearlong pilgrimage to "Garbage Land," trekking through landfills, paddling through trash-filled waters and smelling sewage treatment plants -- all just to find out what happens to the things that people throw away.
On Beyond Organic GMO Legal Battles
Last year, California’s Mendocino County passed legislation banning the planting of Genetically Modified (GM) crops within its borders. Trinity and Sonoma Counties quickly followed suit.
OPEC should raise output further if possible
high levels in order to cool down prices, oil minister Purnomo Yusgiantoro
said Wednesday.
Record Hurricane Year has Oil Industry Worried
A parade of major storms in the Gulf of Mexico could disrupt US crude and natural gas production, leaving the world's largest energy consumer with less supply to meet robust demand, oil industry experts and weather forecasters said on Tuesday.
Richardson Local Leaders Must Lead Fight on Global Warming
Former U.S. Energy Secretary Bill Richardson urged mayors from across the nation Monday to take the lead in fighting global warming.
Singapore Opens Fourth Recycling Plant Sewage into Water
Singapore on Tuesday opened its fourth recycling plant designed to turn sewage into water, as part of the water-scarce island nation's move to self-sufficiency.
Summary of G8 Summit Climate Change
"While uncertainties remain in our understanding of climate science, we
know enough to act now to put ourselves on a path to slow and, as the science
justifies, stop and then reverse the growth of greenhouse gases."
- Leaders of the Group of 8 countries
UK government releases first statistics on renewables
Green heat sources in Britain provided the equivalent of 669,000 tonnes of oil last year
US Energy Bill Talks this Week, MTBE Deal Looms
Talks to resolve differences in energy legislation passed by the House and Senate will begin this week after key lawmakers met with President George W. Bush at the White House Tuesday.
US Govt Study Hits Dept Energy Over Contracting Goals
Small businesses haven't been getting their fair share of subcontracts from contractors working with the U.S. Department of Energy, according to a study by the U.S. Government Accountability Office.
Vermont Adopts Unique Approach Renewable Energy
"This is a good step forward for Vermont to join the ranks of states with renewables portfolio standards."
World leaders pledge support for more renewables
Members of the G8 group of developed nations promised to “promote the continued development and commercialisation of renewable energy” at their recent summit.
World's Largest Solar Photovoltaic System Commissioned
"During its anticipated lifetime -at least 20 years- the solar systems at all three solar parks will produce hundreds of millions of kilowatt hours of clean electricity."
July 12, 2005
22 die, 60 missing in China mine blast (posted 07/12/05)
At least 22 miners died and 60 others were missing after a gas explosion early Monday at a coal mine in China's northwestern Xinjiang autonomous region.
Conservation Remains Key as Temperatures Heating Up Throughout Northern and Central California (posted 07/12/05)
Weather forecasts are calling for scorching temperatures throughout much of northern and central California this week. The sustained heat over several days could put an additional strain on the state's power grid.
Damage to BP Thunder Horse platform risks growth plans: analysts (posted 07/12/05)
Damage to BP's $1-bil Thunder Horse oil platform in the deepwater US Gulf of Mexico may hamper the company's plans to boost oil and gas output, oil analysts said Tuesday.
EC offers $150-mil for research to integrate renewables, cut cost (posted 07/12/05)
"In the short to medium term, the goal is to pave the way for the introduction of innovative and cost-competitive renewable and energy efficiency technologies into the market as quickly as possible through demonstration and other research actions," it said Monday.
Ecuadorean Indians demand end to oil exploration (posted 07/12/05)
"We want to end oil exploration because it is destroying our culture."
Energy Efficient Area Proves Costly for Birds (posted 07/12/05)
When it comes to wind power, few places are more productive -- or more deadly to birds -- than this gusty stretch of rolling hills 50 miles east of San Francisco.
Federal Agencies Partner to Reduce Home Energy Bills and Protect Environment (posted 07/12/05)
The Bush administration announced a new partnership aimed at reducing household energy costs by 10 percent over the next decade while improving our nation's air.
Firm plans state's largest wind farm (posted 07/12/05)
The most ambitious wind power project in Michigan history is taking shape in rural Oceana County on the picturesque shores of Lake Michigan.
G8 pledges 'substantial' reductions in greenhouse gas emissions (posted 07/12/05)
The climate change communique released Friday at the Group of Eight summit conference in Gleneagles, Scotland, pledges that the industrial countries will work in partnership with major emerging economies
G-8 Takes No Concrete Steps to Stop Global Warming, but Schedules New Round of Talks (posted 07/12/05)
The Group of Eight summit bowed to U.S. pressure on Friday by approving a declaration on climate change that avoided taking any concrete steps to fight global warming
GE Buys Gas Pipeline (posted 07/12/05)
Southern Star is a regulated interstate natural gas pipeline spanning more than 6,000 miles in Kansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Wyoming, Nebraska, Colorado and Texas. Along with the pipeline, the system includes 39 compressor stations and eight gas storage fields.
GreenFuel Secures $2.38 Million in Bridge Financing; Company Hits Targets Ahead of Schedule; Earns Confidence of Investment Community (posted 07/12/05)
It's business is in providing emissions-to-biofuel conversion services to power plants and industrial facilities. "If GreenFuel's technology can be economically deployed at utility-sized power plants on a large scale, it will be one of the more important innovations in both energy supply and air pollution reduction in recent years
Groups challenge EPA mercury rule over release of other toxins (posted 07/12/05)
Several conservation groups have mounted a different type of challenge to the Environmental Protection Agency's already lawsuit-plagued mercury rule: a suit alleging that the measure is illegal because it allows power plants to emit lead, arsenic and other toxic substances that they previously had to control.
Managing power grid for Texas a delicate balancing act (posted 07/12/05)
In a hushed, dimly lit room in Austin and in an identical space in Taylor, people responsible for keeping the lights on in Texas intently scrutinize computer monitors 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Meetings energize accord on renewables (posted 07/12/05)
Colorado: Special-interest advocates and utilities report good progress on how to comply with Amendment 37.
New Leader Named at Yucca Firm (posted 07/12/05)
Bechtel SAIC, the company operating the Yucca Mountain Project for the federal government, disclosed a change in top leadership Thursday.
New US FERC chairman opposes mandatory gas price reporting (posted 07/12/05)
New US Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Chairman Joseph Kelliher Monday said he does not support a requirement in the House version of the comprehensive energy bill that would require the agency to collect, evaluate and make public wholesale natural gas prices.
Nuclear power stations on alert over terrorist attacks (posted 07/12/05)
THE government has ordered Britain's nuclear power stations on to a heightened state of alert amid fears of more terror attacks.
Quote of the Day (posted 07/12/05)
"Current estimates anticipate that natural gas [usage] will grow from 8% to 20% of the India's fuel mix by 2025."
Rebates offered for energy efficiency (posted 07/12/05)
Southern California Edison is increasing its rebates for residential customers who dispose of old freezers, install more efficient air-conditioning systems and take other steps to reduce energy use.
S&P wary of huge clean-air, fuel costs (posted 07/12/05)
A wave of new clean-air regulations splashing down on a climate of high energy prices is creating an atmosphere where electric utilities may get soaked with under-recovery of their compliance costs
states_grab_wind_power (posted 07/12/05)
The Texas Retail Electric Market - the Good, the Bad, and the Very Good (posted 07/12/05)
Welcome ya’ll to the Texas Retail Market - now 3½ years old and growing more mature by the day. The market seems like it is in its teenage years now - lots of promise, but lots of maturing (and uncertainties) still ahead.
Wind Power - Information for Policy Makers and Householders (posted 07/12/05)
As part of an effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while enhancing energy security, wind power in the UK is set to be used in the UK Government's target to increase the contribution of renewables to UK electricity to 10% by 2010 and 20% by 2020.
Work is a real gas (posted 07/12/05)
A spokesman for Scottish & Southern Energy, who will run the plant, said the new facility is likely to create 'hundreds' of jobs
July 11, 2005
Albuquerque, N.M., homeowner wins battle with developer for solar rights (posted 07/11/05)
Existing state and city law encourage the use of solar energy and allow for property owners who install solar devices to heat air, heat or pump water or produce electricity to establish a property right to access solar energy.
Arizona Public Service powers up new transformers one year after fire (posted 07/11/05)
Three new transformers at the Westwing Substation in the northwest Valley were energized as planned Wednesday, bringing the Valley's electric system up to full capacity for the peak summer air conditioning season.
AWWA, Others Oppose MTBE End Run (posted 07/11/05)
A coalition of water supply and local government interests who have long opposed including MTBE "safe harbor" language in national energy legislation this week urged lawmakers not to slip such a provision into a major transportation bill now being negotiated by House and Senate conferees.
Bush Predicts Rise of Hydrogen-Powered Cars (posted 07/11/05)
President Bush said Wednesday that the United States must move away from fossil fuels and predicted a rise in hydrogen-powered cars.
Car of the future may stall at start (posted 07/11/05)
The car industry is preparing for the day when oil wells run dry by investing billions of dollars to develop clean and efficient hydrogen-powered vehicles. But the new fuel comes with its own built-in commodity crisis.
Does Manganese Inhaled from the Shower Represent a Public Health Threat? (posted 07/11/05)
A new analysis based on animal studies suggests that showering in manganese-contaminated water for a decade or more could have permanent effects on the nervous system.
Drinking Water Security to Be Major Topic at Infragard 2005 National Conference (posted 07/11/05)
One of the testing facilities to ensure the safety of the nation's drinking water supply, announced that drinking water security will be a featured topic at the upcoming InfraGard 2005 National Conference.
Energy Secretary Visits Coal Country: Urges Coal Industry to Support President's Energy Bill (posted 07/11/05)
Some of the bill's important provisions focus on the use of coal and clean-coal technologies.
Final EPA Staff Paper Recommends Stronger Particle Pollution Standards (posted 07/11/05)
A key document in U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s review of national air quality standards for particle pollution recommends the administrator consider strengthening and refining current standards to better protect public health and visibility.
Five Towns Weigh Plusses, Prices of Burying Power Lines (posted 07/11/05)
There were power poles and wires all over the roads of Jupiter Island after Hurricanes Frances and Jeanne came to call.
Fuel-cell vehicles run clean, but is their future clear? (posted 07/11/05)
Fuel-cell vehicles have been dubbed the ultimate clean car, but whether they can replace gasoline-powered automobiles in the not-so-distant future is an open question.
G8 Summit: Hope for fresh climate deal (posted 07/11/05)
THE G8 leaders are poised to reach a new agreement on climate change, involving a deal on energy efficiency and a pathway for a successor to the Kyoto Protocol.
G8 Offers Action Plan for Cleaner, More Efficient Energy (posted 07/11/05)
Leaders of the world's eight leading industrialized nations have adopted a 38-point plan of action to address the related issues of climate change, clean energy and sustainable development.
GE Announces Plans for Largest Desalination Plant in Africa (posted 07/11/05)
The Hamma project is part of GE's ecomagination effort, which is aimed at building innovative solutions to tough global problems, like water scarcity. The Hamma project will supply 25% of Algeria's capital city's population with desperately needed drinking water.
Green Energy Adventure’s fuel cell-powered Puffin completes its journey (posted 07/11/05)
The Green Energy Adventure’s Hydro-Puffin has completed its gruelling 1578 km journey around Iceland successfully!
Incentives for Early Fuel Distribution Will Ease Clean Diesel Transition (posted 07/11/05)
Refiners have an added incentive to produce and distribute ultra-low sulfur highway diesel fuel earlier than required. Ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel is necessary to reduce harmful diesel emissions because it allows a new generation of engines to run more than 90% cleaner than today's diesels.
Industrial Pollution: New European Register Adopted (posted 07/11/05)
the success of EPER proves that citizens are keen to know how clean or polluted their environment is, and that this kind of information enables them to take action if they are not satisfied.
Iran to build 20 atomic power plants: Iranian agency (posted 07/11/05)
"As the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has announced, the Islamic Republic's nuclear programme is peaceful."
Iran reserves the right to enrich uranium and produce nuclear fuel.
KC Area Developers Cited for Clean Water Act Violations (posted 07/11/05)
We hope these actions by EPA will result in greater compliance and improved water quality by sending a clear message to the construction industry about the importance of controlling storm-water runoff.
Lawmakers take some of the air out of `hydrogen highway' plan (posted 07/11/05)
In a setback for one of Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's centerpiece environmental efforts, state lawmakers on Thursday approved barely half the money the state Environmental Protection Agency had said was needed to start building a ``hydrogen highway'' across California.
Orezone Provides Clean Water Program for African Villages (posted 07/11/05)
Orezone Resources, Inc. announced that it has commenced a US $100,000 program to drill wells that will provide a source of clean, safe drinking water for five villages in Burkina Faso, West Africa.
Protesters in Richmond, Va., target Massey Energy over mining practices (posted 07/11/05)
A four-hour demonstration in downtown Richmond against "mountain-top removal" strip mining, held in sympathy with protests at the G-8 meeting in Scotland, ended without incident yesterday.
Rainwater Systems, Inc. Receives 2005 Green Innovation Business Award (posted 07/11/05)
Ten Virginia companies were given awards recognizing their contributions to environmentally sound building and development practices.
Research and Markets: Russia has emerged as a Reigning Oil Producer by Supplying about 2.5 million b... (posted 07/11/05)
In recent years, Russia has emerged as a reigning oil producer by supplying about 2.5 million barrels a day in 1960 to about 8 million barrels a day in 2004-2005.
Residents: No to coal (posted 07/11/05)
If the results of a public hearing Wednesday are any indicator of how Tallahassee residents feel about the city being part owner of a coal-fired power plant, city commissioners' decision should be easy: Don't do it.
Schwarzenegger helps dedicate a congestion-easing power line (posted 07/11/05)
With a symbolic flip of a switch, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger yesterday dedicated a new electricity transmission line that he said should relieve congestion and save money for consumers.
Spanish Cabinet Approves Energy-Saving Measures (posted 07/11/05)
The Spanish cabinet approved energy-saving measures on Friday, aimed at curbing sharp increases in electricity consumption and cutting oil imports at at a time of record fuel prices.
State leaders look to take the lead in hydrogen fuel conversion (posted 07/11/05)
A group of business, education and political leaders from South Carolina think the Palmetto State is poised to become the leader in technology that could eventually replace fossil fuels.
States Gain and Lose Under New DWSRF Allocation Formula (posted 07/11/05)
15 states will get a bigger share of annual capitalization grants over the next four years, with Arizona leading the way with a 150% increase.
| They Are Drilling Down In Texas (posted 07/11/05) |
| If you live in the Fort Worth area of Texas, it would probably not be a surprise to see a drilling rig popping up near your back yard. That's because a gold rush of sorts is on to tap the vast natural gas reserve known as the Barnett Shale area. Thousands of wells have been drilled in the area and hundreds are in the works. Such sources of natural gas are likely to play an increasing role in meeting our demand. |
Thousands Flee Pakistani Floods But Worst Over (posted 07/11/05)
About 320,000 Pakistani villagers have been displaced by floods in the past 10 days and three people have been killed, but the worst appears over with water levels in main rivers falling, a relief official said.
UN Presses Leaders on Trade, Climate After Summit (posted 07/11/05)
Group of Eight deals on aid and debt relief marked major gains in the fight against poverty, but world leaders fell short on climate change and trade reform, Secretary-General Kofi Annan said on Friday.
Unusual Number of Wildfires Scorch Alaska Coast (posted 07/11/05)
Rising temperatures in Alaska have sparked an unusual number of storms along the state's south-central coast this summer, officials say, and the multitude of lightning strikes and resulting fires have burned more than 1 million acres (405,000 hectares).
Woodchip power plant proposed for Ludlow (posted 07/11/05)
A plan to build a $45 million power plant that would burn woodchips and generate 20 megawatts of power was announced Thursday in Ludlow.
July 9, 2005
Blair Fights to Unite U.S., G-8 Partners behind Call for Action on Global Warming (posted 07/09/05)
Environmentalists urged British Prime Minister Tony Blair on Monday to consider leaving a skeptical United States behind as he tries to unite the world's leading powers behind urgent action against global warming ahead of the G-8 summit.
Brazilians Suspect Foreigners Covet Amazon Rain Forest (posted 07/09/05)
Ecologists sounded the alarm: the Amazon rain forest is disappearing at the fastest rate in nearly a decade. But the outcry left many Brazilians suspicious.
Cleanup of Military Waste on Right Track (posted 07/09/05)
Patches of Utah held underground tanks that refueled World War II military trucks. Whole ranges served as experiment stations for testing toxic nerve gases or rock-busting explosives.
Donor Countries Agree to Finance a Feasibility Study to Save the Shrinking Dead Sea (posted 07/09/05)
Donor countries have agreed to finance a feasibility study for a proposal to save the shrinking Dead Sea by feeding it with water through a canal from the Red Sea,
'Eco-Car' Size Limits Upset Nissan: Official Rules Clash with Export Needs (posted 07/09/05)
Toshiyuki Shiga, the chief operating officer of Nissan, said the company supported the Thai government's policies to encourage production of eco-cars, but was concerned about the size specifications of the vehicles.
G-8 Countries Trying to Reach Compromises on Africa and Global Warming (posted 07/09/05)
World leaders faced pressure from the United States to scale back goals for relieving African poverty and combatting disease on the world's poorest continent.
Million Solar Roofs Bill Passes Key Committees (posted 07/09/05)
"After three years of fighting for the nation's biggest solar bill, today's vote marks our greatest accomplishment to date."
Nations Agree to Cuts in Ozone-Depleting Pesticide (posted 07/09/05)
A group of 189 developed nations, including the United States, have agreed to cut use of a pesticide that depletes the ozone layer.
Noxious Alien Weed Flourishing in South (posted 07/09/05)
One biologist compares the persistent green weed to "The Blob," the title character in the 1950s sci-fi classic flick that grows and grows and consumes everything in its path.
Oil Industry Leaders Discuss Arctic Challenges at Meeting in Northern Norway (posted 07/09/05)
Oil industry leaders met in Norway's far north Thursday to discuss the prospects and challenges of oil drilling in one of the world's last petroleum frontiers: the Arctic.
PET Peeve (posted 07/09/05)
Oil won’t last forever – for that we are lucky. Petroleum dependence is a risky, unreliable crutch that drives global insecurity, depletion, and pollution.
Plans Unveiled for Large Hydrogen Energy Plant (posted 07/09/05)
While each of the component technologies making up the project is already proven, their proposed combination in this project is a world first.
Seeing the Holographic Solar Answer (posted 07/09/05)
"To date, little attention has been given to optics technologies in solar module R&D. Our products will change that, as we show how our holographic technology can impact solar module output and application."
Worldwatch Launches International Biofuels Project (posted 07/09/05)
Soaring oil prices, growing security concerns, and farmers' search for new markets have combined to create a super-charged market for biofuels
July 8, 2005
North Atlantic Ocean Temps Hit Record High (posted 07/08/05)
Ocean temperatures in the North Atlantic hit an all-time high last year, raising concerns about the effects of global warming on one of the most sensitive and productive ecosystems in the world.
Additional Generation Available to Southern California (posted 07/08/05)
The completion of the second phase of Calpine's Pastoria Energy Center brings the total capacity at the facility to 750 megawatts.
Almost All of Portugal Gripped by Drought (posted 07/08/05)
Ninety-seven percent of Portugal is in severe or extreme drought as the worst dry spell in 60 years deepens.
Blasts Derail Trains, and Talks (posted 07/08/05)
Four bomb blasts in London Thursday morning killed dozens and injured hundreds of people, and brought the city's public transport system to a halt. These terrorist attacks also derailed a long and sustained campaign to get Group of Eight leaders to deliver on the environment and on poverty.
Bush Urges Less Global Oil Use, as US Guzzles It (posted 07/08/05)
While President George W. Bush is urging nations to use less oil, his administration has opposed major increases in US vehicle fuel standards that could save millions of barrels of oil a year and reduce carbon dioxide emissions.
Chinese Power Company to Spend 12.09bn Dollars on Grid Renovation (posted 07/08/05)
An electricity shortfall of 25m kwh has been predicted ...To remedy the situation, the largest power grid company in China has decided to input more than 100bn yuan (about 12.09bn US dollars) on the construction and renovation of power grids.
City Rebate Intended to Save Energy (posted 07/08/05)
The city of Columbia will pay as much as $5,000 to businesses and other organizations that use large amounts of electricity if they agree to overhaul their lighting systems in an effort to cut electricity use.
G8 To Agree Need For Climate Action But No Targets (posted 07/08/05)
The Group of Eight powers meeting in Scotland reached agreement on Thursday on the need for urgent action to combat global warming, but set no measurable targets, Germany's top negotiator said.
Hurricane Dennis Lashes Jamaica, Aims at Cuba (posted 07/08/05)
Hurricane Dennis lashed Haiti and Jamaica with flooding rain and strengthened into a major storm with 115-mph (185-kph) winds as it approached Cuba on Thursday.
India Releases Water, Pakistan Faces Floods (posted 07/08/05)
Pakistani authorities told villagers to evacuate their homes on Thursday after India released a large volume of water into a river that flows from the Himalayas into Pakistan.
Massachusetts looks into new RPS rules that could hurt windfarms (posted 07/08/05)
New England wind developers warned Thursday that a move by Massachusetts to revamp its renewable portfolio standard rules could thwart wind development and crash New England's fledgling renewable energy certificate trading market.
MILLION SOLAR ROOFS BILL UPDATE (posted 07/08/05)
Last night, the California Assembly Utilities Committee approved the Million Solar Roofs bill (SB 1), moving it forward to the next stage. Unfortunately...
MP's 'Windmill Bill' Paves the Way for Home-Made Power (posted 07/08/05)
SOLAR panels and wind turbines on houses could be the norm in less than a decade if new measures to encourage home-produced energy are passed by politicians, it was claimed today.
OPEC reiterates will ensure stable oil market amid terror attacks (posted 07/08/05)
OPEC Thursday sent condolences to the British government following the transit bombings in London earlier in the day, and said is was ready to work with other oil producers and consumers to make sure such acts of terrorism did not disrupt world energy markets.
Power Crunch Deepens as Heatwave Bakes China (posted 07/08/05)
Searing temperatures across booming China have driven up energy demand, exposed an over-reliance on coal and are taking a toll on industry.
Solar-powered water treatment system (posted 07/08/05)
The Texas General Land Office recently selected the city to test a solar powered-water treatment system. If it works, the plant could serve as a model for other border communities.
South Korea considering building nuclear fusion plant by 2040 (posted 07/08/05)
Nuclear fusion produces an alternative energy derived from an artificial sun made of hydrogen. It is environmentally friendly and there are no limits to its production capacity.
SUPPORT FEDERAL TAX CREDITS FOR SOLAR ENERGY (posted 07/08/05)
The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), sponsor for this Renewable Energy Action Alert, is asking you to contact your elected officials so that your voice can be heard in Washington on this important and historic opportunity to bring Solar Energy to mainstream America.
Tech Breakthrough Enables Biodiesel Production from Ethanol Plants (posted 07/08/05)
A new corn oil extraction technology is now available to the ethanol industry ...The technology enables ethanol producers to extract crude oil from the dry mill process.
Toyota Highlander Hybrid Certified for the Clean-Fuel Deduction (posted 07/08/05)
The Internal Revenue Service has certified the 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid as being eligible for the clean-burning fuel deduction. This certification means that taxpayers who purchase one of the hybrids new during calendar year 2005 may claim a tax deduction of up to $2,000 on Form 1040.
US nuclear O&M costs continued to decline in 2004 (posted 07/08/05)
For the second year running--the only plant to report spending less than 1.2 cts/kWh on operations and maintenance, including fuel.
Utility on trial over pollution ; Federal lawyer says AEP's coal plants violated Clean Air Act (posted 07/08/05)
The government and eight states in the Northeast, including New Jersey, say AEP broke the law when it made major modifications to nine coal-burning plants without installing equipment that would have cut pollution drastically.
July 7, 2005
EMP: America’s Achilles’ Heel (posted 07/07/05)
The electromagnetic fields produced by weapons designed and deployed with the intent to produce EMP have a high likelihood of damaging electrical power systems, electronics, and information systems upon which American society depends. Their effects on dependent systems and infrastructures could be sufficient to qualify as catastrophic to the nation.
Can We Head Off A Marine Cataclysm? (posted 07/07/05)
“Houston, We Have a Problem…”
A lot of people are worrying about the world’s oceans these days.
Alternative US Green Energy Sources (posted 07/07/05)
US President George W. Bush has urged increased investment in energy alternatives to reduce the world's dependence on oil and gas, helping curb global warming.
Bulk of Penn. "Clean Energy" Funds Target Coal Projects (posted 07/07/05)
In terms of funding and capacity size, however, some of the largest "clean energy" awards go to coal-fired projects; not the typical solar, wind and biomass one envisions of clean energy.
Bullion slips in London as traders take profits after blasts (posted 07/07/05)
A series of explosions both on the London Underground and on London busses has, on first reports, killed two people and injured close to 200.
Bush Urges G8 to Lead Shift From Oil and Gas (posted 07/07/05)
US President George W. Bush urged leaders ahead of a G8 summit on Wednesday to spearhead a worldwide effort to invest in alternatives to oil and gas to help control global warming.
Calif. Planning Green Power Revolution (posted 07/07/05)
Only four years removed from an energy crisis that cost a governor his job and plunged the state into debt, California is embarking on an environmentally friendly but risky strategy to quench it future thirst for power.
China to have 10-mil bbl of crude storage tanks ready by end-Aug (posted 07/07/05)
China is set to complete construction on a batch of 16 storage tanks under the first phase of its strategic crude stockpiling program in eastern coastal Zhejiang province at the end of August
Clean Air Trial Starts Against AEP (posted 07/07/05)
The nation's largest power generator broke clean air rules when it made major modifications to nine plants without installing equipment that would have cut pollution drastically, a Justice Department lawyer said.
Coal-supply disruption has utilities looking for alternate fuel (posted 07/07/05)
Ongoing coal supply problems from the Powder River Basin have some power producers switching to natural gas, and the higher fuel costs will be passed on to customers.
DOE to transfer depleted uranium to BPA (posted 07/07/05)
DOE has agreed to transfer up to 8.5-million kilograms of depleted uranium to the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) for re-enrichment by USEC Inc. and use in Energy Northwest's (EN) Columbia BWR over the period 2009 to 2017. DOE has some 700,000 metric tons of depleted uranium
Energy Department Awards 38 States $26.5 Million to Fund State Energy Efficiency Priorities (posted 07/07/05)
SEP grants support and encourage state energy-saving and efficiency goals.
Environmentalists, coal industry battle over mountaintop mining (posted 07/07/05)
The coal industry calls it mountaintop mining. Environmentalists describe it as strip mining on steroids.
EU Commission Targets Member States over Biofuels (posted 07/07/05)
Several European Union states have failed to implement rules promoting biofuels, the bloc's executive said on Wednesday, adding it was starting or advancing legal action against the offending countries.
G8 Close to Climate Deal but it Could Lack Detail (posted 07/07/05)
World leaders look set to reach a deal on climate change at their G8 summit on Thursday but environmentalists will be unimpressed if, as expected, they fail to commit themselves to specific targets.
Hungry to Get Hungrier with Global Warming - FAO (posted 07/07/05)
The poorest countries where food is scarcest will find it increasingly difficult to feed themselves as global warming exacerbates desertification and drought.
India not happy with G-8 greenhouse gas non-tariff proposal (posted 07/07/05)
The non-tariff barriers being promoted by industrialised nations as a way of promoting clean energy will be opposed by India. India will be supported by its fellow G-5 members, namely China, Brazil, South Africa and Mexico.
IPE Brent recovers after $5/bbl fall on terrorist blasts (posted 07/07/05)
Brent crude futures traded on London's International Petroleum Exchange were paring initial heavy falls Thursday after a series of explosions aimed at London's transport network caused widespread reported casualties, including fatalities.
King coal: Resurgence in price has companies scrambling to find workers (posted 07/07/05)
Companies are offering wage increases and bonuses to keep workers and attract new ones.
Massive 'Green' Complex to be Built in New York (posted 07/07/05)
American developers are about to break ground on what they hope will be a $20 billion super mall designed to show the United States how to end its dependency on fossil fuels.
NEW NATIONAL COALITION FORMED TO PROMOTE CLEAN, RENEWABLE, DOMESTIC WIND ENERGY DEVELOPMENT (posted 07/07/05)
The American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) today announced the formation of a broad national coalition of wind energy advocates that is intended to be the largest pro-wind energy development organization of its kind in the United States.
New World Bank Guidelines Should Mainstream Climate Change in Loan Portfolios, Says WRI Report (posted 07/07/05)
"The G8 should call on the World Bank to increase efforts to stop climate change. The Bank should identify and then help fund the incremental costs of financing a clean energy future,
North Carolina bill under consideration may curb greenhouse gases (posted 07/07/05)
A climate-change bill before the N.C. House this week would place North Carolina among states that aren't waiting on federal solutions for a warming world.
Secretary Bodman offers optimistic view on US energy legislation (posted 07/07/05)
US Energy Secretary Samuel Bodman expressed confidence Thursday that Congress will enact comprehensive energy legislation after having failed to do so since the beginning of the Bush administration.
Solar plan faces key test (posted 07/07/05)
The bill, SB 1, aims to place electricity-generating solar panels on 1 million California homes within a decade by heavily subsidizing installations. Even though the bill sailed through the state Senate, it must pass the Assembly Utilities and Commerce Committee today
Stanford Scientists Call for Hydrogen 'Apollo Program' (posted 07/07/05)
What if all the vehicles now on the road in the United States were suddenly powered by hydrogen fuel cells?
Study Reveals Lethal Chemicals Stored Near Nation's Largest Population Centers (posted 07/07/05)
Experts call it one of the worst-case scenarios in a terror attack: a cloud of lung-melting gas or a toxic fireball ripping though a U.S. city. Potential casualties: 1 million or more.
We're a step closer to taming the Sun An experimental thermonuclear reactor will show whether fusion... (posted 07/07/05)
The effort by thousands of scientists around the world has been inspired by the thought that fusion - the source of the Sun's power - could solve the world's future energy needs by generating vast amounts of electricity from water, without carbon dioxide emissions and with relatively little nuclear waste.
Why Does Organic Food Cost More than Conventional? (posted 07/07/05)
There are a bushel of reasons why organic food costs more than conventional food. Some of them:
Wind spins its way into the energy equation High fuel costs add to the allure of a nonpolluting power (posted 07/07/05)
Once barely enough to stir the surface of the energy industry, wind power is gathering intensity, evolving from local origins and drawing in major international investors like electricity utilities, oil producers and equipment manufacturers.
WTI surges to new highs on Access on storm-related supply fears (posted 07/07/05)
Tropical Storm Cindy passed through Louisiana late Tuesday, causing a rash of refineries to suffer either power outages or operate at reduced run rates. Tropical Storm Dennis in the Caribbean Sea was upgraded to a category-1 hurricane which is expected to stretch into the weekend
July 6, 2005
Acquisition of operating wind farm (posted 07/06/05)
Windridge has been generating electricity from 38 Danish "Windmatic" wind turbine generators since 1984.
Another PRB train derails; joint line repairs to affect traffic (posted 07/06/05)
Railway coal train headed from southeastern Montana to Superior, Wis., derailed in Miles City, Mont., July 1, spilling two carloads of coal. BNSF spokesman Gus Melonas told Platts Coal Trader on Tuesday that the fourth through the 14th of the 123 railcars derailed.
Australian Cattle Coming Home as Hope Returns (posted 07/06/05)
After weeks of foraging for food in drought stricken lands, farmers are taking their cattle home and optimism is returning to Australia's livestock industry.
Britain imports liquified gas as North Sea reserve shrinks (posted 07/06/05)
Britain is reportedly to be importing liquified gas, for the first time in history as its North Sea oil reserve dwindles.
China seeks Canadian uranium to meet future power needs (posted 07/06/05)
Chinese officials and investors have been scouting for uranium in Canada, a country with the largest deposits in the world, to power new nuclear power plants
Clean Technology Projects Receive $43 Million Boost from Sustainable Development Technology Canada (posted 07/06/05)
SDTC Announces Its Largest Funding Round To Date, Assisting 15 Projects Across Canada
Climate change is a ‘serious business risk’ for the global financial industry (posted 07/06/05)
“In the interest of our clients and shareholders, we are obligated to take these risks into account when making decisions on insurance underwriting, investments or lending credit.”
Energy department analyses global generation from renewables (posted 07/06/05)
El Salvador and the Philippines are the two leading countries for the share of electricity generation from non-hydro renewable energies.
EU energy drive to cut 'standby' wastage (posted 07/06/05)
NEW rules to cut the enormous amount of electricity used by television sets, video recorders, set-top digital boxes and other household appliances left on standby are to be approved by EU environment ministers this week.
Fuel Cells, Threat or Fantasy? (posted 07/06/05)
The migration to Lithium batteries from the other battery chemistries will be seen in all of the applications analyzed in recently-released fifth edition of Darnell’s “Power Packs for Portable Electronic Devices
G8 summit: Waiting in the wings: the other leaders who must take a giant leap for the planet (posted 07/06/05)
The leaders of the world's biggest developing countries, led by China's President, Hu Jintao, will be at Gleneagles this week to begin a vital dialogue with the rich nations about how they can join in the fight against global warming.
G8 warned against ‘watering down’ plans (posted 07/06/05)
President Bush is becoming increasingly isolated over his refusal to face up to his global responsibilities, internationally and domestically
Gasoline blends stress supplies, environmental benefits vary: GAO (posted 07/06/05)
Special gasoline blends in the US reduce vehicle emissions by varying degrees, but also strain gasoline supply systems, affecting operations at refineries, pipelines and storage terminals
Green car label scheme launched (posted 07/06/05)
A scheme that allows car buyers to check the environmental performance of new cars, in the same way as with home appliances, has been launched.
IAEA to Weigh Strengthening Nuclear Laws (posted 07/06/05)
Delegates from about 100 countries began work Monday to revamp an international treaty on protecting nuclear material, arguing existing laws fail to do enough to safeguard nuclear power plants from terrorism.
IPE Brent surges on hurricane fears (posted 07/06/05)
Crude oil futures on London's Intetrnational Petroleum Exchange Wednesday edged higher, consolidating Tuesday's gains as the threat of further hurricanes in the US Gulf disrupted offshore production, traders said.
Renewables are superior to nuclear, says UK think tank (posted 07/06/05)
Public support to renewables should rise to the levels which historically have been given to nuclear power, in order to “re-level the economic playing field” for renewables and allow the technologies to achieve their full potential.
Report shows wind potential (posted 07/06/05)
G8 nations must encourage and support wind power developments worldwide to ensure that we can curb greenhouse gas emissions
Resource potential of RE can meet world’s energy needs, says BP (posted 07/06/05)
The resource potential of renewable energy is more than sufficient to meet the world’s energy needs according to the 2005 version of the BP Statistical Review of World Energy.
Schwarzenegger solar power bill faces Calif. test (posted 07/06/05)
The bill aims to put photovoltaic solar panels on the roofs of one million new homes and businesses within 10 years, increasing solar generation from a current 100 megawatts to more than 3,000 megawatts
Spanish energy law to boost biomass, wind energy (posted 07/06/05)
The Spanish government is likely to approve a renewable energy plan this month that is mainly aimed at boosting the number of biomass and wind installations to offset an expected decline in nuclear output
U.S. survey shows strong support for renewables (posted 07/06/05)
Ninety per cent of Americans think that building more solar power facilities is a good idea, while 87% support expansion of windfarms, according to a national survey.
UK recycling at all-time high (posted 07/06/05)
New figures released during the latest BIG recycle campaign show that UK homes and businesses are recycling more than ever.
UN 'Dirty' Tour Turns Up Cracks and Asbestos (posted 07/06/05)
The official tour will tell you the founding of the United Nations in 1945 brought the world from post-war misery toward prosperity and happiness. An alternative "dirty" tour will tell you the United Nations is crumbling.
US Wants G8 Climate Debate to Move Beyond Kyoto (posted 07/06/05)
President George W. Bush has not shifted his position on climate policy but wants to broaden the debate on the controversial issue...Those included pollution, poverty alleviation and development of secure energy supplies.
Who will build Blair's nuclear power plants? (posted 07/06/05)
BEFORE his re-election in May and since, there have been broad hints that Tony Blair sees a significant role for nuclear power in meeting Britain's future energy needs, while cutting our emissions of greenhouse gases.
Wind could provide 12% of world’s electricity (posted 07/06/05)
“Wind has the maturity, clout and global muscle to deliver deep cuts in CO2, while providing a hedge against fluctuating fossil fuel prices and reduced energy import dependence.”
Young Chernobyl Victims Heal in Cuban Sun (posted 07/06/05)
At a beach resort near Havana, children with bald heads and skin lesions splash with joy in the warm Caribbean sea.
July 5, 2005
14 senators picked to negotiate energy bill (posted 07/05/05)
Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, R-Tenn., and Democratic Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., on Friday selected 14 senators to participate in upcoming negotiations to work out a compromise on a broad energy bill with the House.
Bush Cool on Climate Deal, Offers Blair No Favours (posted 07/05/05)
US President George W. Bush told Britain's Tony Blair to expect no favours at this week's Group of Eight summit in return for backing war in Iraq, as a deal on climate change looked set to offer little concrete action.
China to build its own fusion reactor (posted 07/05/05)
Days after France was chosen as the site for an experimental nuclear reactor based on fusion technology, state media said Friday China will build its own.
DC Circuit Court of Appeals Holds District Court Has Initial Jurisdiction Over PURPA Dispute (posted 07/05/05)
The sole avenue, according to the DC Circuit, to challenge FERC’s position was through an action brought in Federal District Court pursuant to PURPA’s enforcement mechanism.
European nuclear producers 'discreetly' boost capacity: analysts (posted 07/05/05)
Many European nuclear generators are discreetly boosting their capacity, which is technically easy and lucrative at current power prices
'Five-mile rule' will help W.Va. coal industry and environment (posted 07/05/05)
The Environmental Protection Agency has approved W.Va.'s Manganese Five-Mile Rule revising allowable limits on levels of the metal in water discharge from mining operations. Indeed, EPA has decided not to regulate manganese as a contaminant under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA)."
G8 SUMMIT: Africa Needs Food Security, Not Experimental Crops (posted 07/05/05)
A leading global consumer body is warning that genetically modified food is not the ''miracle solution'' to world hunger and malnutrition.
G8 SUMMIT: Bush Dampens the Climate Already (posted 07/05/05)
U.S. President George W. Bush's Independence Day remarks on climate change have turned out to be a statement of independence from any global efforts to contain damaging change.
G8 SUMMIT: 'Greenwashing' Does Not Make the World Cleaner (posted 07/05/05)
The "greenwashing" that corporations are now doing as their bit to clean up the environment cannot hide the damage they are causing.
G8 SUMMIT: Protesters Prepare ”Warm” Welcome for World Leaders (posted 07/05/05)
Activists from all over the world are streaming into Scotland and settling into self-organised tent communities as they prepare for a full calendar of actions on poverty and environment.
Global Oil Politics and the Energy Security in the Asian region (posted 07/05/05)
The oil price in the international energy market appears set to remain high for the rest of this year despite the attempt of the oil giants to increase production.
Iberian Drought Hits Farmers, New Wells for Tourists (posted 07/05/05)
Farmers risk going out of business, 80 million trees could die in one region alone and emergency wells are being opened on the Costa del Sol to deal with Spain's worst drought on record.
New Power Plant Boosts Baghdad Electricity Grid (posted 07/05/05)
The project at the Qudas Power Plant outside Baghdad added 90 megawatts of electricity to the Baghdad power grid.
Railroad problems may bring Summer Power Difficulties (posted 07/05/05)
Could bring problems for coal-burning power plants this summer.
Secretary of Energy Samuel Bodman Announces New Department of Energy Office in Beijing, China (posted 07/05/05)
The new office will support DOE's cooperative efforts with China on energy and nuclear security issues.
SPACE WEATHER ADVISORY OUTLOOK #05- 27 (posted 07/05/05)
Category R1 – (minor) radio blackouts are possible
Tallahassee to consider coal plant in upcoming weeks (posted 07/05/05)
Officials hope a plant using coal to generate electricity would translate into lower utility bills for customers because the city is now dependent on natural gas, a product of a 1992 referendum against a coal plant.
US Senate passes fiscal year 2006 Energy Dept budget of $25-bil (posted 07/05/05)
The bill, which passed 92-3, must now be reconciled in conference with a House of Representatives measure that gives DOE about $425-mil less funding.
Why the Lights May Be Going Out Again All Over Europe (posted 07/05/05)
SOUTHERN Europe faces a rerun of the summer of 2003, when a heat- wave caused French power cuts and a halt to electricity exports that left half of Italy sweltering in the dark.
Yes Virginia, General Electric Can Combine Capitalism and Environmentalism! (posted 07/05/05)
GE has now confirmed what many of us in the energy efficiency marketplace have known for some time: the energy/environmental sector can be a significant new business opportunity with robust revenue and profit streams.
July 4, 2005
Asia Scrambling to Curb Energy Use (posted 07/04/05)
Governments around Asia have implemented short-term energy-saving measures, but analysts say they are likely to have little impact as consumers shielded from high prices or with strong economies keep buying.
Department of Energy grants fund work on new hydrogen fuel technologies at Santa Cruz (posted 07/04/05)
"The goal is to produce clean energy," Zhang said. "The idea of using solar energy and water as a source of hydrogen is very attractive, and we believe nanostructured materials can be used to do this efficiently."
Don't Get Burned on Biomass Mandates (posted 07/04/05)
National Lessons to be Learned from the Unsuccessful Minnesota Biomass Initiative
First hydrogen plane tested in US (posted 07/04/05)
A US company says it has successfully completed test flights of a potentially environment-friendly aircraft powered by liquid hydrogen.
France's Chirac: G8 Heading towards Climate Deal (posted 07/04/05)
We have had some difficult discussions and it looks like we are heading towards an agreement," Chirac said
Britain's Prime Minister Tony Blair, the summit's host, said last week he had been having tough negotiations with the United States, the world's biggest polluter.
Fueling a hydrogen boom (posted 07/04/05)
South Carolinians may love their gas-powered pickups and their SUVs, but the state is still poised to launch a revolution in clean-burning hydrogen fuel.
Geely unit to make hybrid cars (posted 07/04/05)
"In the long term, we expect hybrid-powered cars will account for half of our total annual sales."
Hybrid means that petrol and diesel engines can power cars and produce electricity simultaneously. The electricity can also power cars, helping to reduce fuel consumption and exhaust emission.
German Organic Farm Sales Boom but Profits Low (posted 07/04/05)
Germany's organic farms are enjoying a dramatic rise in sales but a supermarket price war means farmers are making little money from bio food.
Global Warming to Wreck Mediterranean "Paradise" (posted 07/04/05)
Global climate change will bring hotter, drier summers to the Mediterranean and hit two of the region's biggest earners, agriculture and tourism.
Hydrogen supply to increase (posted 07/04/05)
A cheaper, environmentally friendly energy source is hitting the market soon, thanks to efforts on both sides of the border.
Organic Consumers Association: From Farm to Fork: How Much Oil Did You Eat Today? (posted 07/04/05)
Every day millions of American consumers purchase food from grocery store chains without giving much thought to the oil and energy resources involved in chemical-intensive industrial agriculture and long distance food transportation.
Professor says hydrogen economy has its critics (posted 07/04/05)
To hear UND professor Scott Tolbert tell it, this time in our history is to fuel cells, "green" energy sources and the hydrogen economy as the time 100 years ago was to the development of the automobile.
Protesters target water applications for Washoe power plant (posted 07/04/05)
The state engineer says his office is receiving objections about water use approvals sought for a proposed power plant in the Smoke Creek Desert about 120 miles north of Reno.
Pulling power from thin air (posted 07/04/05)
"What's really exciting about driving? Perhaps the noise has nothing to do with it," he shouts. "Perhaps it's possible to make a car that's completely quiet, that drives like a sports car - makes you feel every bit of the road - but all you hear is a whoosh."
Remarks By the President on the G8 Summit (posted 07/04/05)
The following is a transcript of remarks by the President on the G8 Summit
Senate vote puts power bill on Rell's desk (posted 07/04/05)
Connecticut Gov. M. Jodi Rell has publicly opposed the new federally mandated fee system that is expected to start in 2006, and power industry observers and legislative leaders expect that she will sign the bill.
Survey Finds Americans Support Energy Independence, Hydrogen-Based Economy (posted 07/04/05)
Americans believe energy security should be the top priority of U.S. energy policy, voicing wide support for a "moon shot" effort to develop a hydrogen economy in a survey released today
UN Agency Launches Global Biofuels Initiative (posted 07/04/05)
The initiative will help to build capacity in the production, use and trade of bio-fuels and raise public and private sector awareness of the challenges and opportunities of increased bio-fuel use.
Water Shortage May up Japan Utilities' Oil Demand (posted 07/04/05)
Water shortages in western and southern Japan have forced at least two utilities to reduce hydroelectric generation and crank up oil-fired power plants, spurring market expectations that utilities' demand for oil may rise this summer.
July 1, 2005
Australia's wind energy industry in danger of stalling (posted 07/01/05)
Australia's wind energy industry is in danger of stalling with government incentives running out fast, according to Greenpeace International's climate policy director, Steve Sawyer, who is currently visiting Australia.
Britain may face mass gas supply shortage of winter gas: NGT (posted 07/01/05)
Britain could face mass gas supply shortages and potential
industrial
shutdowns to curb demand if the coming winter is severe
"Carbon Free" Power Station Planned in Scotland (posted 07/01/05)
Energy major BP and three partners are planning to build a plant in Scotland which would be the first in the world to generate "carbon free" electricity from hydrogen.
CNOOC blasts House resolution, says will hike USG production (posted 07/01/05)
the Hong Kong subsidiary of state-controlled China National Offshore Oil Co, said Thursday that its purchase of Unocal had the potential to increase oil and natural gas supplies in the US market through better exploitation of Unocal's more than 500 Bcf of reserves in the Gulf Of Mexico.
Electricity Transmission: Governments and Agencies Cooperate to Ensure Reliability (posted 07/01/05)
A bilateral working group from the United States and Canada will address key issues related to electricity reliability in North America.
Europe's utilities plan new nuclear projects (posted 07/01/05)
Industry may be moving faster than governments on nuclear, but Germany's Social Democrat chancellor Gerhard Schroeder's surprise plan to bring forward federal elections by around 12 months
France stops exporting electricity to Germany (posted 07/01/05)
France has stopped exporting electricity to Germany as intensive heat in southern Europe last week led to a tight supply situation as air conditioning usage soared
Global Coalition on Environmental and Human Rights to CSFB: "Oil is Over, Fund the Future" (posted 07/01/05)
Eight international civil society groups placed a full page ad in the Financial Times today urging Credit Suisse First Boston (CSFB) to uphold its sustainability commitments and sever its relationship as financial advisor to the controversial Sakhalin II project.
Government Scientist Denies Falsifying Yucca Mountain Data (posted 07/01/05)
A scientist at the center of a controversy over potential falsification of documents about the Yucca Mountain nuclear waste dump insisted before Congress on Wednesday that he did not alter paperwork on the project.
House may address nuclear waste funding in the fall: Official (posted 07/01/05)
A move to give the US Dept of Energy nuclear waste program greater access to the more than $700-mil collected each year from nuclear utility customers is expected to get under way in the House after Congress completes work on the broad energy bill
India, Pakistan Fail to Resolve Differences over Disputed Water Project (posted 07/01/05)
India and Pakistan failed Wednesday to resolve their differences over New Delhi's plan to build a dam that Pakistan fears will deprive its farmers of vital water supplies.
Meeting Water Needs (posted 07/01/05)
Maintaining water quality is critical in the public water marketplace. Employing the best technology and expertise provides assurance to communities that their drinking water is safe and meets all appropriate standards. There are situations that occur within the public water system that requires immediate action.
Montana cities offer $2 billion for NorthWestern operations (posted 07/01/05)
The offer, if approved by NorthWestern's major creditors and various state and federal regulators, could result in the cities taking over operation of the utility's electric and natural gas operations by the end of the year
Oceans at Risk from Global Warming – Scientists (posted 07/01/05)
Thousands of marine species are at risk from global warming because of acidification of the world's oceans, scientists said on Thursday.
Official Says Efforts to Solve Global Water Crisis Falling Short (posted 07/01/05)
Hundreds of billions of dollars investment are needed annually to help resolve water supply and sanitation problems in the developing world, far exceeding the sums that donor countries are capable of providing
OPEC won't shy away from raising output if required: source (posted 07/01/05)
OPEC on Jun 15 agreed to raise its ceiling by a half-million barrels to 28-milb/d from July 1 and to consider a second hike of the same amount if warranted.
Pelosi, Congressional Democrats Lead Fight to Control Mercury Emissions (posted 07/01/05)
The rule, promulgated by the Bush Administration's EPA, would allow pollution to continue unabated for more than a decade beyond what the Clean Air Act requires.
Radioactive Cesium Leaks into Baltic from Swedish Nuclear Plant (posted 07/01/05)
Radioactive cesium has leaked into the Baltic Sea from storage tanks at a nuclear power plant in central Sweden, but poses no risk to the public or the environment, the state nuclear authority said Wednesday.
Russia, Chile to Cooperate in Nuclear Energy Utilization (posted 07/01/05)
"Chile doesn't have many natural resources, and they are considering the possibility of building a nuclear power plant."
Senate Votes to Block Pesticide Tests on Humans (posted 07/01/05) (posted 07/01/05)
The Senate voted to block the Environmental Protection Agency from using studies that expose people to pesticides when considering permits for new pest killers.
Sewage in Water Kills Six in Pakistan, 500 Sick (posted 07/01/05)
Six people died in the Pakistani city of Lahore and about 500 were sick after drinking water that was contaminated by sewage believed to have seeped into the city's supply lines
Shell says US government drops probe into reserves scandal (posted 07/01/05)
Having originally reported proved oil and gas reserves of 19.4-bil boe for 2002, Shell downgraded this figure five times in 16 months, leaving it at 13.72-bil boe, 5.6-bil boe less than first reported. The resulting scandal led to the departure of three of the company's top executives and $150-mil in fines
Thousands Evacuated in Post-Drought Australia Rain (posted 07/01/05)
Two people were missing and about 3,300 people evacuated from rising floodwaters in eastern Australia on Thursday after storms lashed areas which had been suffering under the nation's worst drought in a century
UK's EU presidency starts: focus on internal energy market (posted 07/01/05)
Consolidating the European Union's internal energy market is one of the top energy priorities of the UK, which took over the six-month rotating presidency of the EU Council of member state governments Friday.
Utah's Speaker Warns That the "Temporary" Goshute Site Could Be Permanent (posted 07/01/05)
Nuclear energy industry officials told a group of lawmakers from around the nation Tuesday that making Yucca Mountain a permanent storage site for nuclear waste is an "important national priority," and of "critical importance."
Warming May Harm Africa's Sand Dune Fields (posted 07/01/05)
Global warming could have a major impact on Africa's southern sand dune systems, spreading desert-like conditions and destroying the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of people before the end of the century, new research warns.
ZAP and Advanced Battery Achieve EV Range Increase (posted 07/01/05)
Performance test results of the retrofitted vehicle indicate that the LSV range increased from 40 km (25 miles) to 150 km (90 miles) - more than a threefold increase in range.
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