Do give a charitable, tax deductible donation please go to: Donation Page
YOU CAN HAVE THE DAILY ENERGY NEWS DELIVERED TO YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS!!
If you'd like an email on your inbox each and every day on matters of ENERGY, email us at: subscribe@arizonaenergy.org making sure your email address is the one you'd want your delivery to. Of course, there is NO CHARGE for this service. AND WE NEVER USE PERSONAL INFORMATION FOR ANY THING OTHER THAN TO DELIVER YOU YOUR DAILY NEWS!!
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
May - Please scroll to bottom for previous months or years.
Footnote: We always attempt to get the news to you AND obey copyright laws. We apologize if, in our haste to get the news out, we miss a notice that it was copyright protected. We are a non-profit foundation therefore we do not reprint for profit. Our sole motivation is to keep our public informed. If you have an article reprinted here and desire us to eliminate it, just let us know and we will immediately delete it, without question, with apologies. arizonaenergy on copyright law FAIR USE NOTICE
*******************************************************
*******************************************************
May 31, 2006
Canada lagging in wind power, Wind Energy Association chief says
Canada has "probably the best wind resource in the world" but lags behind other developed countries in generating electricity from the air, the head of the wind industry's national organization told a Bay Street crowd Tuesday.
China Deserts Eat Up Arable Land - Environmentalist
A giant dust bowl is forming across northern China, converting swathes of arable land to desert and triggering sandstorms whose impact carries across the Pacific, a leading environmentalist said on Tuesday.
China, Japan start forum on energy saving cooperation
At the opening of the forum, visiting Chinese Commerce Minister Bo Xilai said China has set a goal of lowering energy consumption per unit of gross domestic product by 20 percent by the end of 2010 as against 2005 levels.
China's Longest River 'Cancerous' With Pollution
China's longest river is "cancerous" with pollution and rapidly dying, threatening drinking water supplies in 186 cities along its banks, state media said on Tuesday.
Climate Change May Spur Poison Ivy Growth
Add another item to the list of health threats posed by global warming: poison ivy that's more poisonous, and lots more of it.
Decentralized energy is 25% of new power generation output
One-quarter of the electricity output from new power generation facilities last year was derived from decentralized energy (DE) systems, almost double the share of 13% in 2002.
Diablo's steam jumper, David Beals--SLO County's nuclear power plant
A jumper is someone who volunteers to go into the steam generator bowl, and its radiation field, to block off pipes connected to the nuclear reactor (when it is shut down for refueling and maintenance) about 40 feet away. Beals dams the pipes in order to check for cracks and to clean up debris in the steam generator system.
Dutch Preparing for 14-Inch Ocean Rise by 2050
The Dutch can expect wetter winters and a threatening rise in
sea levels of up to 35 centimeters (14 inches) by 2050, said a report Tuesday by
the national weather service.
While many countries discuss global warming and greenhouse gas emissions
as theories, the Dutch see climate change as a matter of survival
demanding concrete action.
European PV industry aims for 2,700 MW by 2010
The solar PV industry in Europe has adopted a strategy to reach a market of 2.7 GWp in Europe in 2010.
Members of the European Photovoltaic Industry Association adopted the strategy to develop European and global markets for solar PV. The goal of 2.7 GW is sufficient to supply seven million families, and to reach a global market of 5.4 GWp.
Feds rap Exelon for poor response to tritium spills
Exelon Corp., owner of the largest U.S. nuclear fleet, may have violated five federal rules with a slow and inadequate response to spills of radioactive water at its Braidwood nuclear reactor, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission said.
Fusion energy to be marketed as renewable
An international consortium will construct an experimental nuclear fusion reactor, marking the formal establishment of the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER).
The United States, Japan, China, Russia, India, South Korea and the European Union will sign a formal agreement on building ITER in November.
Germany builds world's first non-poluting coal power plant
Germany broke ground on Monday for the world's first coal-fired power plant which will emit no greenhouse gases.
However, efficiency suffers during the process, which makes 35 percent of the coal become electricity, compared to 45 percent by traditional coal plants.
Greenpeace Says Nuclear Waste Seeping into Groundwater from French Storage Site
Greenpeace said Tuesday that nuclear waste from a storage
facility is seeping into groundwater in the Champagne region and threatening
vineyards that produce the sparkling wine.
The environmental group presented the French Senate on Tuesday with a
report saying that groundwater samples 10 kilometers (6 miles) from
champagne vineyards showed contamination from the waste facility in
Soulaines.
High oil prices not damaging world economy-- Iranian Oil Minister
Speaking to reporters in Caracas a day ahead of an OPEC meeting, Vaziri Hamaneh said "there is no effect so far on the world economy" from the high crude prices.
Indonesia Quake Death Toll at 5,427; Aid Increases
International relief efforts picked up on Tuesday for survivors of a weekend earthquake that killed more than 5,000 people on Indonesia's Java island, with over a score of countries now involved.
IPE Brent drifts lower as fund-led rally runs out of steam
The front-month July Brent futures contract dropped 81 cents to $70.28/barrel at 0958GMT with brokers expecting the $70/barrel level to be tested later in the day.
Is the EU Emissions Trading Scheme working?
The European Commission published verified emissions data for 21 of the 25 EU member states on May 15. It showed the EU undershooting its emissions goal for 2005 by 64 million tonnes. Only 5 member states, including the UK, have so far reported failing to meet their goals.
Is the Middle Eastern Economy Rebounding?
The graph of Gulf stockmarket indices has flattened out over the past two weeks, in a sign that the dramatic correction in share prices that started at the end of February may have finally run its course. If that proves to be the case, and if Gulf markets move into a phase of steady recovery for the rest of the year,
It's nearly lights out for PG&E's solar power buybacks
California's landmark efforts to increase solar power, supported by environmentalists, state leaders and the governor, could be in peril.
Most UK residents support renewables, suggests poll
Most residents of Britain support their government's push for greater use of renewable energies, according to a poll commissioned by the Department of Trade & Industry.
N.Y. state unveils power-plant mercury emission reduction plan
The state of New York has introduced its own mercury plan to reduce emissions from electric power plants. It joins several other states, including Illinois, Michigan and Pennsylvania, in advocating tougher mercury emission standards than those announced by the federal government.
Nation´s 100th ethanol plant opens in Iowa
The nation´s 100th ethanol plant held its grand opening May 25 near Gowrie, Iowa. "There are no losers with ethanol, only winners, including farmers, consumers, Iowa´s environment, Iowa´s economy and our national security as we become less reliant on foreign oil," state Sen. Daryl Beall said.
New Cape Cod Wind Farm Plan Drawing Positive Spin
Location. Location. Location. The axiom usually cited in valuing real estate could just as easily apply to offshore wind-power farms, it seems.
Nigeria to restart shut-in production within 'few weeks'
Nigeria hopes to start bringing back on stream shut-in production and is confident that all 500,000 b/d of lost output will be restored in the next few weeks, oil minister Edmund Daukuro said late Tuesday.
No Link Between Leukemia Risk, Nuclear Plants
Children living near nuclear plants in France do not have an increased risk of leukemia, a new study confirms.
Ontario IESO starts programs to ease summer power supply crunches
Ontario's Independent Electricity System Operator Tuesday said that after a successful three-week test of its planned "Day-Ahead Commitment Program" it will launch the program Wednesday for power commitments on Thursday.
Ontario pays big users to cut electricity consumption
Ontario will pay major power consumers up to $600 per kilowatt hour to shut down production on days when electricity is in short supply, in a bid to avoid rotating blackouts this summer.
OPEC's Barkindo reiterates high oil prices due to geopolitics
OPEC's acting secretary general Mohammed Barkindo Tuesday blamed current high oil prices on geopolitical tensions, but said at the same time that the high levels were not having a negative impact on world economic growth and demand for oil.
'Perceived Problem' for Wind Power Undergoes Research
"Very seldom do you see developers, wildlife ecologists, federal agencies,
state entities and preservationists working together to examine a perceived
problem."
-- Dr. Robert Robel, an expert on prairie-chicken populations
Coal may be abundant. But, transportation is not. And therein lay the dilemma: Coal generators nationally are at the beck and call of rail operators to deliver their essential commodities. As such, transportation costs are rising while some power facilities are experiencing fuel shortages and subsequently higher costs.
Leading green energy trade body BWEA (British Wind Energy Association) has welcomed this week’s backing for a UK renewables drive from ministers. UK Energy Minister Malcolm Wicks and Scotland’s Deputy First Minister Nicol Stephen delivered positive indications on the future of green energy, which comes as a timely boost following last week’s discussion on a new nuclear programme.
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 053106
Solar activity was very low. The geomagnetic field is expected to be quiet to unsettled on 31 May. Mostly unsettled condtions with active periods are expected on 01 - 02 June due to a recurrent coronal hole high speed stream.
Report shows strong potential for renewables in Western Australia
The electric grid in Western Australia has the scope to accommodate “significant renewable generation capacity beyond that currently installed and under development providing adequate policy and systems are put in place to avoid the difficulties, uncertainties, disruptions and additional costs of renewable energy development.”
Scotland provides more funding for renewables
The Scottish Executive will invest another £20 million to support the Clean Energy Strategy. “I want to Scotland to become the renewable energy powerhouse of Europe,” says deputy first minister Nicol Stephen.
Senator Clinton Calls for Investing in Renewable Energy
Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton has taken a stand by introducing legislation to create a "Strategic Energy Fund" to help pay for the clean energy transition. It would raise more than $50 billion to fund research, development and deployment of energy technologies that will reduce America's oil dependence and greenhouse gas emissions.
Solar thermal displaces 9.3 billion litres of oil per year
Solar thermal systems around the world displace the combustion of 9.3 billion litres of oil and reduce CO2 emissions by 25.4 megatonne (Mt) each year. The global installed capacity by the end of 2004 was 98,416 MW of thermal energy, according to the IEA Solar Heating & Cooling Program in its annual report
State Mercury Rule Constitutionally Sound
Pennsylvania's state-specific proposal to control mercury
emissions from coal-fired power plants passes the key test for
determining whether a measure violates the Commerce Clause of the
U.S. Constitution.
States Restrict Firewood to Stop Bug
A tiny green beetle that decimates ash trees is nibbling away at traditional summer campfires as states try to halt the insect's spread through infested firewood that campers unwittingly haul into parks.
US Has Easy Ride Under Kyoto - UN Official
Washington is having an easy ride in UN talks to curb greenhouse gas emissions and the world may have to wait until after 2008 for greater US involvement, the chair of a main UN climate group said.
US precious metals rise on weaker dollar
With the dollar continuing to head south, gold and other precious metals have maintained their firming trend on the New York exchanges Tuesday morning.
US summer natural gas demand seen slightly below 2005
After four straight summers of dramatically increasing costs, US wholesale natural gas markets are expected to be more stable this summer, although "multiple threats," including hurricanes and volatile world energy markets could upset that forecast, the Natural Gas Supply Association said Wednesday.
USGC high sulfur fuel oil prices remain weak while Russian M100 fuel oil floods market
Prices for US Gulf Coast high sulfur fuel oil have remained weak for May relative to next-month 3% sulfur fuel oil swaps, as heavy imports of Russian M100 fuel oil this month and a lack of incremental arbitrage opportunities in the Americas or to Singapore weighed on the spot market.
Utah Power chases more wind turbines
Utah Power says it has plenty of "green energy" to sell under its Blue Sky program, but it nevertheless is looking for more of the environmental credits created when producers generate electricity using wind-driven turbines.
May 30, 2006
China Says It's Slowing Rate of Desertification
China, with desert covering one third of its landmass, is slowing the rate at which desertification is eating up arable and other land but the problem remains serious, a government official said on Monday.
China, India, Brazil Could Slash Energy Use - Report
China, India and Brazil could reduce energy use by a quarter with simple efficiency schemes but banks have been sluggish to lend to such projects, an international study said on Monday.
Crude pauses for direction after long weekend
Benchmark July crude futures on the New York Mercantile Exchange consolidated in a narrow range around Friday's $71.37/barrel close Tuesday afternoon in Asia after touching a high of $71.75 early in early Access trading, as players awaited cues on direction after a three-day weekend.
Dion would revamp taxes to make polluters pay for toll on the environment
Liberal leadership candidate Stephane Dion says he would revamp Canada's tax system to make polluters pay for the toll they inflict, returning revenues to the same sectors to help them clean up their act.
E.U. Urges Europeans to Act Locally to Help Stop Global Warming
The European Union launched a new awareness campaign Monday urging its citizens to help stop global warming, adding that just the smallest changes to everyday routines, like turning down the thermostat by a degree, can make a difference.
Energy network proposal involves wildlife-rich corridors
Environmentalists are ringing alarm bells over a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service draft proposal that could locate a series of new electricity towers and underground pipelines in wildlife-rich corridors.
Environmentalist calls for more renewable energy
A leading US environmentalist yesterday advised China to explore renewable energy sources. Lester Brown, 72, president of the Earth Policy Institute in Washington DC, said: "What China clearly demonstrates to the world now is that the Western economic mode, the fossil fuel-based, automobile-centred, throw-away economy, is not going to work with China."
First Azerbaijani crude from BTC pipeline arrives at Ceyhan
First Azerbaijani crude to pass all the way along the 1,774 kilometer
Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline has arrived at Turkey's Mediterranean terminal at
Ceyhan.
The BTC pipeline has the capacity to ship up to 1 million b/d of oil from
the BP-operated Azeri Chirag Guneshli project in the Caspian Sea.
Gold higher in London after long holiday weekend
Gold moved higher in early London trade Tuesday after the three-day weekend in the UK, underpinned by a weaker US dollar.
Indonesia Quake May Trigger Merapi Eruption - Expert
The earthquake that killed over 5,000 people on Indonesia's Java island is linked to the one that triggered the deadly 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami and may signal the imminent eruption of a nearby volcano, an expert said on Monday.
IPE Brent futures climb on Chinese crude demand head of OPEC meet
IPE Brent futures in London surged higher Tuesday on new Chinese crude demand figures and ahead of OPEC's Thursday meeting in Caracas, where the group is expected to keep its 28 million b/d ceiling unchanged, brokers said.
Iraq's May crude exports average below 1.5 mil bd, down from Apr
Iraq's oil exports for April will average just under 1.5 million b/d, down from the average of 1.619 million b/d in April, because of lower loading rates and production levels from southern oil fields, Iraqi oil industry sources said Tuesday.
Japan, China sign five documents on energy cooperation
Japan and China opened a three-day forum in Tokyo on Monday [29 May] to pass on Japan's experience of improving its energy efficiency and conserving the environment to China, as energy demand of the emerging economy is expected to rise sharply with its rapid economic development.
After skyrocketing to historic highs in the wake of last year’s devastating hurricane season, Alberta’s natural gas prices next month are set to be the lowest in almost four years.
Pollution Market Collapses -- But Without Triggering Concern Among Experts
A new commodity burst onto trading markets a year ago, heralded
as a key ingredient in the effort to curtail climate-changing greenhouse gases.
That item was carbon permits -- the right to pollute -- and it soared from zero
to a US$10 billion business.
Then the market crashed.
Promote dialogue on energy co-operation
Increasingly strained relations between supply and demand, the rising international oil price, strategic contentions focusing on energy producing areas and environmental pollution caused by energy consumption give us no cause for optimism, with the negative effects of soaring oil prices already being felt by the global economy.
"Kuwait would like to continue with the same production
level just to show the market that the security of supply will continue and try
to bring the prices to a more stable level."
- Kuwaiti oil minister
Sheikh Ahmed Fahed al-Sabah said Monday, lending support to the idea of OPEC
maintaining their third-quarter output policy at 28 million b/d. OPEC ministers
are gathering in the Venezuelan capital Caracas for a meeting Thursday.
"Market fundamentals indicate that there should be a
cut in production. There is more than enough oil in the market."
- Venezuelan oil
minister Rafael Ramirez said and is the only OPEC minister so far to have mooted
that OPEC reduce output. OPEC ministers are gathering in the Venezuelan capital
Caracas for a meeting Thursday.
Regulations, culture must align with energy goals
Dee Hock, the former chief executive officer of VISA International, said, "If one is to properly understand events and to influence the future, it is essential to master four ways of looking at things: as they were, as they are, as they might become and as they ought to be."
There is no doubt that our energy future ought to be clean, renewable and secure.
However, that future cannot be achieved without the removal of regulatory barriers that impede the implementation of renewable or efficiency projects.
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 053006
The geomagnetic field is expected to be quiet to unsettled on 30 - 31 May, with isolated active periods possible on 31 May. Unsettled to active conditions are expected on 01 Jun, with isolated periods of minor and major storm conditions possible due to a recurrent coronal hole high speed stream.
Report-- State Rarely Enforces Pollution Laws For Dirtiest Plants
The Maryland Department of the Environment is failing to punish the state's seven dirtiest power plants for thousands of air pollution violations, a newspaper has found.
Three Mile Island guard playing video game fails to see inspector
The employee did not violate any rules as guards are allowed to engage in mind-stimulating activities, the state Department of Environmental Protection said.
UK must improve its energy efficiency
The Government was today urged to step up efforts to improve energy efficiency, as a report found it would not only cut Britain's production of global warming gases but also improve economic growth and employment and reduce inflation.
What's Moving the Oil Markets 053006
•Deborah White, senior energy analyst at Societe Generale, said that an increase in demand of between 8% and 10% in April is a sign that Chinese refineries are becoming more aggressive due to the prospect of higher domestic fuel sale prices.
•OPEC ministers gathering in the Venezuelan capital Caracas for a meeting Thursday to decide on third-quarter output policy were widely expected to leave their 28 million b/d ceiling unchanged.
Working group devoted to nuclear established in White House
A White House official announced last week that a special working group, led by the National Economic Council, has been established to oversee the expansion of nuclear power in the US.
May 29, 2006
Mercury Sponge’ Technology Goes From Lab To Market
A material designed to capture and remove mercury and other toxic substances from industrial waste streams is now available for commercial use.
Apache Club restores wounded spirits
Cibecue is a place of tradition. A place where children grow up speaking the Apache language. A "place where wisdom sits," as an Apache saying goes. But, in recent years that culture, language and tradition have been threatened. As it was in the legends, some of the people have been influenced by corrupt and evil powers. Lately, it has seemed as if the Gaan, the Mountain Spirits, abandoned the People, just as they had once before. Then something wonderful happened. They came back. To understand the importance of what is happening today, you must know a little of the legend of the Gaan.
As part of a ground-breaking collaboration with the U.S. Forest Service and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, APS is leading a utility-government joint venture to streamline the permitting process required to work within established utility corridors in Arizona's forests. This initiative involves all six National Forests in Arizona and the electric utilities which own and operate power lines within the forests.
Arkansas Attorney General's office rejects ballot title requiring hydrogen vehicles
Arkansas Attorney General Mike Beebe has rejected a proposed ballot measure to replace all public transit and school buses with hydrogen fuel vehicles. Beebe said today that the measure's language was too vague.
Bill Approved to Strengthen Energy Savings, RE at Federal Level
The U.S. House of Representatives approved an amendment offered by House Science Committee Ranking Member Rep. Bart Gordon (D-TN), which he says would save more than $200 million a year by making the Federal Government a leader in energy efficiency. The measure would also promote the installations of renewable energy projects by government agencies.
Britain Gives Go-Ahead for Sizewell Nuclear Shutdown
Britain on Thursday gave the go-head for decommissioning of one of its oldest nuclear power stations, a process expected to take more than a century to complete.
With Rising Gas Prices and environmental destruction, there is an imperative need for car companies to come up with creative solutions. Toyota has its electric hybrid Prius, and now DaimlerChrysler has fuel cells. The latter technology is almost too good to be true: imagine driving a Mercedes Benz, no less, and emitting not noxious gas, but water!
Car Powered By Water A Reality
Along Florida's Gulf Coast, water is everywhere. From the bay to the beach to the town of Clearwater, that is where we found Denny Klein. A man driven by water, literally.
CHRONOLOGY - Recent Pacific Rim Earthquakes
An earthquake that devastated a wide area around Indonesia's ancient royal city of Yogyakarta on Saturday is now known to have killed more than 3,000 people.
Durbin-- Study health near nuclear plant
In wake of tritium leaks: Senator echoes concerns of the Braidwood area
"Recent (tritium) spills at the Braidwood plant, along with contamination problems in local wells, have raised serious concerns in the community," Durbin said. "Braidwood-area residents must be given a full and accurate account of how safe their drinking water is. The Braidwood community needs a comprehensive and long-term solution that will keep them safe and informed."
Wastewater from toilets could do more than go just down the drain. It could become a new renewable source of electricity. Bacteria like those in wastewater naturally produce electrons as they decompose organic material; and electricity is nothing more than flowing electrons. There already are microbial fuel cells (MFCs), which produce minute amounts of electric current by exploiting electron-producing chemical reactions inside bacteria.
Ethanol barge price jumps 70 cents gal to record $4-- source
A barge delivery of ethanol into Houston was done Thursday for a record $4/gal, up from the previous high of $3.30-$3.31/gal done May 22-23, a source close to the latest deal told Platts.
Focus shifts to hydrogen power
Hydrogen power appears to be replacing solar energy for future national automobile competitions for engineering students at universities across the country. As a result, engineering students at an MU lab are making plans for a car powered by a hydrogen fuel cell.
France Seeks to Lead World to Nuclear Power
At a factory nestled among Burgundy vineyards, workers shape, bore, polish and test pieces needed to put together a nuclear reactor. At each work station, technical charts are pasted next to a map of the country buying the product.
Funding Deficit Threatens Kyoto CO2 Trade - UN Body
A lack of funding could stall a key plank in the Kyoto Protocol helping Western countries to meet their greenhouse gas emission targets, UN officials overseeing the process said on Thursday.
Fusion power no distant dream-- scientists
There is a deafening, unearthly howl as if a jumbo jet was firing up its engines in London's Albert Hall. On the screen in the control room a ghostly pinkish glow whips round the edges of the inside of the nuclear reactor. At its core it is 10 times hotter than the centre of the sun.
Germany-1 billion euro for hydrogen technology
At the recent hydrogen.tech conference held in Munich, Germany, it was reported that the German Government is planning to invest a billion euro dollars over ten years in promoting hydrogen technology.
Wasted Petrol Continues to Poison the WorldLeave lead and MTBE out, use the carbon for material goods, and clean the air with hydrogen.
by Roy McAlister, President
The Hydrogen Association
Green Star Products Unveils Advanced Biodiesel Reactor
Green Star Products, Inc. announced today that they have developed and successfully commercially tested their advanced biodiesel reactor.
House approves funds for nuke storage
The House passed legislation Wednesday that would set aside $30
million for temporary storage of nuclear waste.
House passes bill approving funding for DOE nuclear program
The House passed an energy and water funding bill in a 404-20 vote yesterday that left intact the Appropriations Committee recommendations on funding for DOE's nuclear energy programs in fiscal 2007.
Hydrogen is often promoted as an ideal clean fuel for cars. But the explosive stuff is also darned dangerous to transport and store.So the US government’s Department of Energy has been looking for ways to make it as safe and easy to pump as gasoline. The solution, according to one of its latest patent applications, could be to store it in tiny glass balls.
Hydrogen production could come through swine manure
Energy is vital to global prosperity, yet dependence on fossil fuels as our primary energy source contributes to global climate change, environmental degradation, and health problems.In contrast, hydrogen offers tremendous potential as a clean, renewable energy currency because it has the highest energy density of any known fuel and is compatible with electrochemical and combustion processes for energy conversion without producing carbon-based emissions.
Indonesia Declares Emergency After Quake Kills 4,600
Indonesia's government declared a state of emergency after a quake killed more than 4,600 people, and rescue workers raced against time on Monday in the hope of finding survivors under the debris of razed homes.
Investors Seek Meeting with ExxonMobil Execs over Climate Policy
Seventeen leading U.S. pension fund and other institutional investors controlling $658 billion in assets are pushing for a face-to-face meeting with independent members of the ExxonMobil board of directors as a result of growing financial world concerns that ExxonMobil is "a company that fails to acknowledge the potential for climate change to have a profound impact on global energy markets, and which lags far behind its competitors in developing a strategy to plan for and manage these impacts."
Italy beats energy efficiency target by 80% in 2005
Italy surpassed its target for energy efficiency in 2005 by 80% thanks to incentives such as its "white certificates" system, the country's gas and power regulator (AEEG) said Friday.
Judge OKs tritium plan at Braidwood
Exelon Nuclear plans to start removing radioactive tritium from groundwater outside a nuclear power plant in Will County within weeks under an agreed court order entered Wednesday.
Judge orders Exelon to action on tritium
Will County judge on Wednesday approved a preliminary injunction ordering Exelon Generation to take a number of steps to protect public health and the environment at its Braidwood Nuclear Generating Station, according to a pair of releases.
Kohn on Financial Crises and the Role of the Central Bank - Speech
The following are remarks by Governor Donald L. Kohn at the Conference on New Directions for Understanding Systemic Risk.
Kyoto states to discuss post-2012 cuts
Countries that are signed up to the Kyoto Protocol reaffirmed plans on Friday to set new, tougher caps on greenhouse gas emissions after 2012, despite spreading skepticism about the environmental pact.
La Nina Threatens Thailand With More Rains, Floods
An expected La Nina wet weather pattern is likely to bring worse than usual floods to Thailand this year, a top disaster official said on Friday after the worst deluge in 60 years killed at least 62 people in the north.
Madison Utility is Asking Customers to Conserve Energy
Customers of Madison Gas & Electric Co. will be asked to conserve energy as part of the utility's strategy for having enough power to meet rising demand for electricity in fast-growing Dane County, utility executives said Tuesday.
Good service and utilities are almost synonymous with one another. But the question of how to oversee reliability has haunted the industry, particularly since the August 2003 blackout that affected the eastern United States and parts of Canada.
Mass. recycling coordinator wins car in Abitibi sweepstakes
Recycle paper, win a Honda Civic hybrid car. It´s usually not that easy, unless you´re John Wade off Walpole, Mass. Wade was the winner of the first Abitibi Paper Retriever customer recycling coordinators sweepstakes, the company said.
Migrant Birds From Africa in Serious Decline - Study
Several bird species that make annual migrations between Africa and Europe have experienced drastic population declines and scientists are not exactly sure why, conservationists said on Friday.
Imagine, for a moment, if we no longer depended on oil.Not a reduced dependency on foreign oil, but freedom from oil. Period.
It could mean less pollution.
A halt to global warming.
And no need for war to protect strategic oil interests.
Miner dies at ICG mine, bringing deaths to 33 nationwide
Another West Virginia miner died Wednesday afternoon, bringing the total number killed in coal mining accidents in the state this year to 19 and the national total to 33.
Navajos OK Lease on Planned US$2.5 Billion NM Coal Plant
The Navajo Nation has signed a 50-year lease for a planned US$2.5 billion coal plant in New Mexico, Sithe Global LLC, a company hoping to build the plant, said Friday. Sithe Global said the plant is expected to use technologies that will cut emissions of mercury and smog components sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide. Mercury can damage the nervous system and kidneys, as well as other pollutants.
New Standard Helps Purchasers Buy Greener Computers
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, along with the Institute for Electrical and Electronics Engineers Standards Association, has announced a new voluntary environmental performance standard to help large computer buyers make environmentally sound purchases.
Overcoming Energy Security Concerns through Technology-led Initiatives
Energy is a key building block for sustaining any nation’s socio-economic development. As the global economy continues to grow, global energy needs as well as global emissions will increase by approx 60% between 2004 and 2030 as per the World Energy Outlook 2004 published by the International Energy Agency. Policy makers in developed as well as developing countries have realized that economic security of a nation has direct linkage with its energy security; hence for the sustainable growth of an economy it is essential to ensure the availability of dependable and affordable energy sources.
Pacific Ethanol to sell stock to expedite building of plants
Fresno, Calif.-based Pacific Ethanol will use the money to accelerate its goal of building five ethanol facilities, with a total annual production capacity of 220 million gallons, by the end of 2008. The company also plans to complete additional facilities by the end of 2010, giving it the capacity to produce 420 million gallons of ethanol per year.
Pataki proposes New York mercury rules tougher than federal marks
New York Governor George Pataki has proposed regulations governing mercury emissions that would be more stringent than pending federal rules, and that would prohibit trading.
PerfectPower Installs First BIPV High-Rise Solar System in Arizona
PerfectPower Inc. has announced that it has designed and installed the first Building Integrated PV (BIPV), high-rise solar electric system in Arizona for the Optima Biltmore Towers project in Phoenix.
Power Up With Magnetic Bacteria
A 16-year-old high school student has invented a new way of producing electricity by harnessing the brawny power of bacteria.Kartik Madiraju, an 11th-grader from Montreal, was able to generate about half the voltage of a normal AA battery with a fifth of an ounce of naturally occurring magnetic bacteria. And the bacteria kept pumping current for 48 hours nonstop.
Report Covers Status of Hydrogen Industry
The 300-page study covers the current status of the hydrogen and hydrogen generation industries and includes a detailed review of whether or not there is to be success found from expansion into energy storage and transportation.
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 052906
The geomagnetic field was mostly quiet. A period of unsettled conditions was observed from 28/0300Z - 28/0600Z, possibly due to a glancing blow from the CME which occurred on 26 May.
Senate panel rejects chlorine amendment in wastewater bill
Sen. Jim Jeffords, I-Vt., and Democrats on the Senate environment committee have failed to pass an amendment that would have forced operators of large wastewater plants to transition away from using chlorine and other toxic chemicals.
Senate passes Enzi's safety legislation; House has not voted
The Senate unanimously passed the Mine Improvement and New Emergency Response Act of 2006 on Wednesday.
Senators Meet With Nominee for NRC
Nevada's senators met Tuesday with the official nominated to become chairman of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, but said little as to whether they found him acceptable to head the agency that might consider allowing high-level nuclear waste to be stored in the state.
Situation in Sinking Tuvalu Scary, Says PM
Low-lying nations such as Tuvalu are slowing slipping under the waves and only dramatic steps, such as legal action against big polluter the United States, might stem the tide, Tuvalu Prime Minister Maatia Toafa said on Thursday.
Hybrid vehicles with solar photovoltaic (PV) panels should be part of the solution to America’s environmental problems and dependence on oil. Oil is the principal energy challenge because of supplies from unstable and unfriendly countries. PV panels added to hybrid cars are much more cost effective than PV panels added to buildings, and solar hybrid vehicles directly address the oil problem.
Solar Night Industries Expands Into Commercial Market
Solar Night Industries Inc. (SNI) has announced that it is expanding into commercial and industrial grade solar energy equipment and products including distribution of solar panels. The company has created both a Solar Power Generation Division and an Industrial Energy Independence Division.
Subtropic Warming Could Mean Bigger Deserts - Study
Earth's atmosphere is warming faster over the subtropics than anywhere else, which could mean bigger deserts and more drought from Africa to Australia to the Middle East, researchers said on Thursday.
Sweet success for pioneering hydrogen energy project
Bacteria that can munch through confectionery could be a valuable source of non-polluting energy in the years ahead, new research has shown.
'The Future Is Hydrogen And We Are There' -- Hydrogen Fuel Production Update
Energy Ventures Organization, Inc.,a Nevada based Zero Pollution Energy Solutions (ZPES) company, is pioneering the fast growing Hydrogen Alternative Fuel Production Industry for homeowners who want a “one-time purchase residential solution” similar to the purchase of an air conditioning unit today which would power their homes free of the electrical grid and electrical grid costs, as well as pinpointing commercial applications for future initiatives and joint ventures.
Toepfer Warns Climate Change Could Destabilise World
Global warming is hitting the poor the hardest and climate change could cause worldwide destabilisation if solutions are not found, one of the world's leading environmentalists said on Friday.
Two more analysts call for US gas prices to crater this summer
Two more US energy analysts predicted Thursday that weather-driven demand won't absorb the large amount of natural gas in storage and that prices will have to fall to $5/MMBtu or less before the market corrects itself.
US Dairy Farm Manure Begins to Power Homes
Lee Jensen says the manure from his dairy farm powers almost as many homes as he has cows.
US House approves bill to open ANWR to oil, gas drilling
The House of Representatives Thursday voted 225 to 201 to open Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to oil drilling, but the bill faces a tough fight for passage in the US Senate, where it faces a certain filibuster.
US House Bill Mixed Bag for Bush Energy Proposals
The House of Representatives late Wednesday passed an appropriations bill that funds President George W. Bush's plan to research clean-burning fuel sources like ethanol, but slashed funding for a Bush plan to recycle radioactive waste.
Voluntary greenhouse gas reductions need better monitoring-- GAO
The US Energy Department and Environmental Protection Agency need to do a better job monitoring the performance of companies participating in voluntary programs to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the Government Accountability Office said in a report released Thursday. Without such improvements, "It will be difficult to evaluate the merits of these voluntary programs," as opposed to government-mandated reductions, the agency said.
What's Moving the Oil Markets 052606
At 1058 London time, July Brent futures contract was trading at $71.16/barrel, up 45 cents. "The market started covering positions yesterday evening where prices rose around $1 in the last hour or so of trading on ICE.
May 25, 2006
Alberta's heavy oil industry should pay for huge fresh-water use
The heavy oil industry should pay for the huge volumes of fresh water it uses
to tap Alberta's rich oilsands reserves, says a report by an environmental
think-tank.
The Pembina Institute report also calls for a moratorium on new oilsands mines
until the Alberta government figures out how much fresh water the industry
should be able to take in the face of climate change.
Alternative-fuels are gaining steam in America
With energy independence increasingly cast as a matter of national security, and the doubling of biofuel output by 2012 mandated by last summer's energy bill, plenty of other Americans are finding more cause for making complex calculations that involve alternative fuels. Some 90 % of 1,000 voters surveyed in March by the non-partisan Energy Future Coalition in Washington supported the notion of having one-quarter of domestic energy demand met by renewables by 2025.
Azerbaijan is a big US ally in a tiny country
The President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, had a lot to discuss with President Bush. Not only does the small Muslim nation occupy a strategic location between Russia and Iran at a time when tension between the United States and Iran is high, but it is also on the verge of a huge oil boom.
Bolivia, Venezuela to create state-led mining company Minersur
Bolivia and Venezuela will create on Friday a bi-national, state-led mining company known as Minersur, Bolivian government officials said Wednesday. The company will be charged with "exploiting minerals all around Bolivia,"
BP Taps into Asian Demand for Solar Energy
BP, one of the largest makers of solar cells, expects Asian sales to accelerate as 1 billion people seek access to electricity and developed nations like Japan reduce fuel imports.
Sales in the Asian market could grow 50 percent a year by 2016, from a maximum of 30 percent now, driven by increased demand in China, South Korea and Japan
Bush reaches out to countries that are rich in oil and gas
Searching for energy supplies and allies against Iran, the Bush
administration is reaching out to leaders who rule countries that are rich in
oil and gas but accused of authoritarian rule and human rights violations.
The presidents of Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Equatorial Guinea are all getting
special attention. The effort sometimes seems at odds with President Bush's
stated second-term goal of spreading democracy.
Bush urges House to fully fund GNEP for FY-07
The Bush administration urged the House to fully fund DOE's Global Nuclear Energy Partnership program in fiscal 2007 and criticized appropriators' decision to eliminate all funds for DOE's mixed-oxide (MOX) fuel facility for the disposition of surplus weapons-grade plutonium.
Construction of fusion energy test reactor could start in 2007
Construction of a large international fusion energy test reactor could begin in 2007 if governments of the seven participating partners ratify the joint implementation agreement, as expected, that ITER participants initialed May 24 in Brussels.
Delay Could Add Up; Gap in Processing SRS Nuclear Waste Could Cost Millions
A potential two-year gap between technologies at Savannah River Site that can process spent nuclear fuel could cost taxpayers an estimated $300 million, according to a federal audit released Wednesday.
Do we need to nationalize Canada's energy industry?
As most experts agree, the production of natural gas and oil is nearing its
peak. At the same time, the demand for both commodities is rising -- and rising
rapidly -- as both China and India begin to experience their industrial
revolutions.
The first thing that this unprecedented new situation of approaching peak oil
and gas has meant is that prices have gone through the roof. What's more, it's
very likely that these prices are going to stay sky-high for the foreseeable
future and beyond.
Energy Czar Leads Charge for Coal Plant
West Virginia--Gov. Joe Manchin has made several big coal-related promises over the past year. Now he has tapped Paul Hardesty to help turn those promises into reality.
EPA Proposes Regulations to Limit Emissions from Stationary Engines
Proposed regulations for engines used to generate electricity and to power pumps and compressors would reduce emissions of ozone- and particle pollution-forming nitrogen oxides (NOx). The proposed regulations include two rules: New Source Performance Standards that would apply to new stationary spark-ignition internal combustion engines; and a technology-based air toxics standard that would apply to certain existing, new and reconstructed stationary reciprocating internal combustion.
EPA Seeks Public Comment on Underground Storage Tank Draft Grant Guidelines
EPA has released for public comment three draft documents which contain grant guidelines for underground storage tank systems. The draft guidelines will establish minimum requirements on delivery prohibition, secondary containment, and financial responsibility and certification that states must meet to be in compliance with provisions of the Energy Policy Act.
EU urges US to join in pressure on Russia
The European Union urged the United States to join it in pressing for open energy markets and more democracy in Russia when the world's leading industrial powers meet in St Petersburg in July.
EU, US Sign Nuclear-Fusion Reactor Pact
The European Union, the United States, and five other nations signed an agreement today to build the first nuclear- fusion reactor. The aim of the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor, ITER, is to provide a new, safe energy source that will cut oil demand and curb greenhouse-gas emissions.
Exelon to Begin Remediation of Groundwater at Braidwood Generating Station
Exelon Corp. today announced that it will soon begin to clean up tritium from groundwater at Braidwood Generating Station, thanks to an agreement the company reached with the Illinois Attorney General, Will County State's Attorney and Illinois Environmental Protection Agency.
FirstEnergy's R. E. Burger Plant Selected for Environmental Project
As part of a multi-year research program sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) National Energy Technology Laboratory, FirstEnergy Corp's (NYSE: FE) R.E. Burger Plant, located in Shadyside, Ohio, has been selected as a carbon sequestration test site.
Henry Ford’s dream of ethanol as the top car fuel could come true
In 1908 when Henry T. Ford launched the Model T Ford, the grandfather of the modern motor industry believed ethanol -- not petrol -- would power the first generation of mass-produced vehicles.
Maine lawmakers pass bill that would boost renewables 10% by 2017
The Maine Legislature has passed an energy bill that calls for increasing Maine's renewable energy resources 10% by 2017.
Nationalization of Bolivian natural gas is part of a broader global trend
First Russia. Then Venezuela. Now Bolivia.
Soaring energy prices are fuelling a global wave of natural-resource
nationalization that is souring the investment landscape for international oil
companies and reshaping energy politics for years to come.
While it is anyone's guess as to which energy-rich developing country will be
next to assert greater state control over its oil or natural gas assets,
analysts say it is only a matter of time before the actions of Russia's Vladimir
Putin, Venezuela's Hugo Chavez and Bolivia's Evo Morales inspire a copycat.
New Orleans Seen Top US Target for '06 Hurricanes
New Orleans, still down and out from last year's assault by Hurricane Katrina, is the US city most likely to be struck by hurricane force winds during the 2006 storm season, a researcher said on Wednesday.
Official-- Worker error led to power outage
The loss of power Saturday to the Catawba nuclear plant, leading to the shutdown of both its reactors, was a rare and unsettling event, experts say.
PPM Secures More Turbines for Expanded Wind Business Growth
PPM Energy, ScottishPower's competitive U.S. energy business, today announced that it has 857 megawatts (MW) of currently approved wind projects for 2006 and 2007 with turbines on order from four major suppliers. Currently, PPM Energy has 362 MW of wind power under construction
President Bush expects companies to invest in alternative fuels
President Bush rejected calls to tax oil companies' record profits, but said
he expects those companies to re-invest those profits in alternative fuels and
new energy technologies.
"My attitude is that the oil companies need to be mindful that the American
people expect them to reinvest their cash flows in such a way that it enhances
our energy security," Bush said.
President Lula-- Brazil will be energy superpower in 20 years
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said he is convinced that within a generation his country will be the world's leading energy power, adding that he has made a commitment to developing alternative fuels such as bio-diesel.
Queue grows for UK gas plant applications
There are now at least nine large gas-fired projects awaiting consent -- equating to more than 7-GW of capacity.
"The complex is still having difficulty holding rallies as
the 2-day injection of hurricane related storm premium appears to have run its
course and the reality of amply supplied markets...[is] brought back to the
forefront again."
-Prudential Financial
said in a report after a $1.90/barrel collapse Wednesday on crude futures after
the latest US stock data showed a 2.1 million increase in gasoline inventories
according to the EIA, higher than the 1.6 million barrel build analysts had
projected, but less than the 4.3 million barrel rise API reported
Indian tribe hopes to block pipeline project
A small First Nation in Alberta is going to federal court with hopes of blocking one of the biggest energy projects in Alberta's history -- the giant Mackenzie Valley pipeline.
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 052506
Solar Activity Forecast: Solar activity is expected to be predominantly very low, but there is a slight chance for an isolated C-class event. The geomagnetic field is expected to be mostly unsettled for 25 May due to recurrence. Quiet conditions are expected for 26-27 May.
Report recommends incentives to add coal-fired power in the West
Western states should offer incentives to encourage development of coal-fired power plants with a total capacity of 2,000 MW, and those facilities should sequester at least 60% of their emissions, according to a report that is expected to be delivered soon to Western Governors.
Saudi Arabia derides America’s plan for energy independence
Saudi Arabia's oil minister scorned the popular notion that America can achieve energy independence as a myth, saying the idea denies the existence of interdependent global markets and the need for countries to work together for oil-price stability.
Saudi Oil Minister says high oil prices are not in US and Saudi interests
For long-term energy security, prices must be higher than consuming nations like the US would like, and lower than what oil- production nations would ideally like to see, Saudi Oil Minister Ali Naimi said.
siGEN Launches New Domestic Micro Wind Turbine
siGEN Ltd. will be showcasing the latest micro wind turbine to be launched in the UK with what they believe will be the best performing micro wind turbine available within its range.
The American fantasy of energy independence
President George W. Bush's recent admission that "America is addicted to oil" and his vow to use new technologies "to replace more than 75 % of our oil imports from the Middle East by 2025" attracted considerable attention in the United States and abroad. While the President avoided the term "energy independence" in his 2006 State of the Union speech, his aspiration to disconnect America from its dependence on Middle Eastern oil echoes the stated desires of leaders from both major US political parties over the past thirty years. Viewed from the outside, America is seen as an energyglutton, consuming a quarter of the world's oil production. Americans should, in the eyes of the rest of the world, be able to reduce their oil consumption without reducing their standard of living.
Move over the "axis of evil". The time is ripe for the "axis of gas".
Meet the Gran Gasoduto del Sur (the Great Gas Pipeline of the South) -- the
South American entry into Pipelineistan, soon to join networks from Siberia to
both Europe and Asia as well as the American-inspired Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan
pipeline. In terms of political will applied by the new axis of Caracas,
Brasilia and Buenos Aires, the pipeline is already a done deal.
Toyota Looks to Hybrids, Detroit Pushes Ethanol
Japan's Toyota Motor Corp. told Congress on Wednesday it could produce more than 1 million hybrids per year globally within the next decade as it looks to capitalize on energy and environmental concerns and the popularity of gas-electric vehicles.
Malcolm Wicks reaffirmed the Government's commitment to renewable energy today during a keynote address to the All Energy conference in Aberdeen.
US Beachgoers at Risk From Polluted Water
An environmental group said on Wednesday it would sue the US government for failing to protect millions of beachgoers from contaminated water.
US House votes to dole out $24.4 billion to DOE in fiscal 2007
Overall, the bill allocates $5.5 billion to environmental clean-up; $4.1 billion to science programs, which are a major Bush administration priority; $1.3 billion for energy efficiency and renewable energy; $558 million to coal, oil and natural gas research; and $530 million to nuclear energy.
US Needs Both Alaska Pipeline, LNG Terminals - FERC
US demand for natural gas will be strong enough in the future to support both a planned pipeline to bring Alaskan gas to the lower 48 states and the many liquefied natural gas import terminals that will be built, a top federal energy regulator said on Wednesday.
US pushes Arctic oil drilling after meeting with Canada and Mexico
It's long past time to open up the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to oil
drilling, US Energy Secretary Samuel Bodman said after meeting with Natural
Resources Minister Gary Lunn and their Mexican counterpart.
"We'd like to see it done now," Bodman said after a meeting centred on securing
the continent's energy supply amid skyrocketing oil prices and limited supply.
US underestimated underwater pipeline damage after hurricanes
The federal government reports that far more underwater pipelines in the Gulf
of Mexico were damaged by hurricanes last year than they realized.
Weather and the pressure to find divers and oil-rig workers have overtaxed
available resources. There are thousands of miles of pipeline that need to be
inspected and tested before oil and gas can flow again.
Venezuela plans more oil discounts for US market
Leftist President Hugo Chavez of Venezuela said he would greatly expand the discounted home heating oil program he started last year for needy people in Massachusetts and other north-eastern states.
What's Moving the Oil Markets 052506
•"Futures seem to be rangebound either side of the
$70/barrel mark and there is real weakness at the moment because of high product
stocks in the US and disappointing demand," said a broker. "Demand for crude
outside the US is something that could support a sustained rally because crude
demand in the US is limp at the moment and for most people this means keeping an
eye on increasing demand from China."
•On Wednesday, the July contract lost $1.28 in value pushing it below the
$70/barrel range after the market interpreted the latest Energy Information
Administration inventory data as bearish
May 24, 2006
Africa gets climate change funding
A new $65m research programme aimed at helping some of the poorest people in Africa cope with the effects of climate change has been launched this week by Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC) and the UK’s Department for International Development (DFID). Serious problems such as flooding, crop failure, drought and soil erosion are some of the issues caused by the extreme conditions that climate change produces, and the poorest communities - those least equipped to respond - are most often those worst affected.
Australia on track to meet greenhouse targets
Australia's environment minister says Australia remains on track to meet its international greenhouse gas emissions target. Senator Ian Campbell says the most recent figures show 2004 greenhouse gas emissions were up just 2.3 per cent on 1990 levels.
Australian Study Says Global Warming Speeding Up
Global warming could be happening faster than scientists had previously thought and weather extremes such as heatwaves could become common, an Australian government report said on Tuesday.
Bacteria might become energy source
British scientists say bacteria that can munch through a
confectionery might be a valuable future source of non-polluting
energy.
Blair pressed on nuclear claims
Environmental NGO Friends of the Earth has demanded that Prime Minister Tony Blair reveal more details behind this week’s announcement that nuclear power was back on the UK’s agenda, to clarify the information submitted to the ‘first cut’ of the Energy Review.
Clinton Seeks 'Revolution' to Cut US Oil Imports
In a speech interrupted by two anti-war protesters, Clinton said a "virtual revolution" was needed in the US approach to energy. She proposed a package of tax and investment incentives designed to reduce foreign oil imports by nearly 8 million barrels a day in the next 20 years.
Coal mining deaths reach 31, highest since 2001
The death toll in US coal mines this year climbed to 31 over the weekend when five miners died early Saturday morning in an underground explosion at Darby Mine No. 1 in Holmes Mill, Harlan County, Kentucky. One miner survived.
Distributed Energy Utilities - It's All About Financing
Many small-scale renewable energy systems have pay-back times of ten years or less. Putting a solar hot water system on your rooftop should be a no-brainer in most geographic zones. So why don't more people invest in distributed energy? The answer: the lack of attractive financing options.
Environmental Group Sues Government over Gas Mileage Rules
An environmental group sued the Bush administration Tuesday over new rules to boost gas mileage requirements for sport utility vehicles and pickup trucks, saying the regulations do not go far enough.
Experts Rap Saudi at Eco-Forum Over Fuel Price Cuts
International environmental experts criticised Saudi Arabia on Tuesday for cutting domestic fuel prices. The price cut, which came amid record high oil prices, reversed hikes in 1999 when Saudi Arabia was searching for ways to compensate for low oil prices that had dented state revenue.
Fannie Mae Agrees to Pay $400 Million Penalty After Investigation
The Securities and Exchange Commission (Commissin) and the Office of Federal Housing Enterprise Oversight (OFHEO) announced yesterday that the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae) has agreed to settle charges relating to the misstatement of its financial statements from at least 1998 through 2004.
A team of federal investigators will visit the Catawba nuclear plant on Lake Wylie today to learn what led to the emergency shutdown this weekend of both of the plant's reactors.
FTC defends decision to ignore upstream in price gouging report
US Federal Trade Commission Chairwoman Deborah Platt Majoras Tuesday defended the antitrust agency's decision to largely ignore the upstream exploration and production sector in its recent investigation into gasoline price gouging following last year's hurricanes Katrina and Rita.
Hunters and fishermen want more renewables
Hunters and anglers in South Carolina believe global warming is happening, and they want immediate action at both the state and national level to combat the growing threat.
A poll released by the South Carolina Wildlife Federation says 84% think the U.S. is addicted to oil and the same level do not think Congress or the Bush administration is doing enough to break this addiction.
Independent producers to try to change minds on offshore leasing
Undaunted by bipartisan opposition to offshore drilling in moratorium
areas in virtually every coastal state, the Independent Petroleum Association
of America is "trying to work grassroots efforts to put out our side of the
story,"
Iraq to Lobby Oil Majors for Investment
Iraqi Oil Minister Hussein Shahristani said that he would launch wide-ranging contacts with international oil companies to boost investment in the sector. Iraq produced 2.1 million barrels of oil per day in April and exported 1.6 million which are below the levels recorded just before the US-led invasion of 2003
Iron Workers Prove Experts at Building Wind Turbine Towers, an Industrial Info News Alert
With the rising price of fossil fuel-fired power generation and growing environmental concerns, renewable energy projects, such as wind power, are garnering an unprecedented level of development across the nation.
Largest 'solar garden' under construction in central Spain
ACCIONA Solar is installing 395 solar trackers that will have a capacity of 2.6 MW when the facility is completed in July. The idea of solar gardens has been developed and patented by ACCIONA Solar, and consists of small PV facilities belonging to numerous individual owners on the same site to allow management and performance of the facility to be optimized by using common infrastructures and services.
Layoffs hit 'synfuel' plants-- High oil prices to idle up to 130 in Ky, W Va
Many of the nation's lucrative coal "synfuel" plants are being
shut down.
Millions at Risk if New Jersey Chemical Plants Leak - Study
Millions of residents of the central US East Coast are at risk of death or injury from release of toxic chemicals because of lax security at chemical plants in New Jersey, a study released Tuesday said.
The case is one of many that the American Public Power Association points to when it says that Congress should do nothing to impede city-owned utilities from getting into or expanding their current high-speed broadband services. The ultimate goal is to provide universal Internet service and not just to those areas that are economically attractive and densely populated.
Nebraskans to push for renewable energy
Nebraska political and agricultural leaders are taking the lead
in a nationwide effort to give farmers a bigger role in energy
production.
Nuclear Energy Institute Comparison-- Nuclear Energy Then...and Now
The following was released today by the Nuclear Energy Institute: A comparison of the advances made in the nuclear energy industry since Jimmy Carter's visit to the Three Mile Island nuclear power plant near Harrisburg, Pa., on April 1, 1979.
NYMEX crude drops, then rallies off weekly oil data
July crude futures on the New York Mercantile Exchange fell $1.16/barrel to an intra-day low of $70.60/barrel Wednesday before trading back above $71/barrel, following the release of the weekly petroleum inventory data.
Pakistani Lawmaker Says Nuclear Waste Dumped in Open
A Pakistani lawmaker on Tuesday accused the country's nuclear authorities of dumping radioactive waste near a village in central Punjab province, causing cancer, miscarriages, and infertility among villagers and livestock.
"It's very quiet this morning ahead of the US data. The
volume going through is absolutely pathetic. The decline this morning is as
people have been saying a 'technical correction' but also the stats look a
little bearish especially with the expected builds in gasoline."
- A London-based broker
commenting on a quiet morning trading ahead of the release of US inventory data
on Wednesday afternoon.
Renewables could help save 182 million lives
The increased use of renewable energies could help to save 182 million potential deaths in sub-Saharan Africa alone.
“Climate change is threatening development goals for billions of the world’s poorest people, with a clear danger that recent gains in reducing poverty will be thrown into reverse in coming decades,” warns Christian Aid in its report
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 052406.htm
Solar activity was very low. Today's activity consisted of a few B-class events. There is a chance for an isolated C-class event during the next three days. The geomagnetic field is expected to be quiet for the next 24 hours (24 May). Mostly unsettled conditions are expected for the second day (25 May) due to recurrence. Conditions should return to quiet levels for the third day (26 May).
Report shows cost-effectiveness of solar water heating in Caribbean
“The unstable and unpredictable cost of energy has been and will continue to be a major concern to countries dependent on petroleum resources for the generation of electricity,” says William Guiney of Caribbean Solar Technologies. “Island nations, especially in the Caribbean region, are caught in the middle of the energy crunch” because they are largely dependent on diesel generation for electricity.
Russia Ready to Penetrate US Energy Market - Nuclear Chief
Russian Federation Federal Atomic Energy Agency head Sergey Kiriyenko is counting on American companies' support in opening the US market for Russian nuclear fuel, he told journalists in Washington, RIA Novosti news agency reported on 23 May.
Sand Can Be Polluted Even with Clean Water
Beach sand can be teeming with bacteria even when the ocean water is clean, according to a study released on Tuesday. Health officials have long known that urban runoff pollutes ocean water with microbes including E. coli and enterococci bacteria found in fecal material.
Scottish Executive to provide GBP20 million more for renewables
"We've already invested GBP100 million in the last three years, but today I can announce GBP20 million extra for Scottish renewables over the next two years," Stephen said at the All Energy conference in Aberdeen.
Senate Democrats Introduce Broad Energy Package
While immigration and border security is the big issue this week in Congress, Senate Democrats haven't forgotten about the high energy prices being felt by industry and gas stations all across the country. On Wednesday, they unveiled a broad package of energy legislation that includes a number of provisions aimed at increasing renewable energy use and reducing America's use of petroleum consumption in the transportation sector.
Solar energy harvested on the moon would be sent back to Earth
As the price of oil hovers at $70 a barrel, a Texas scientist claims to have a surefire way to deflate the escalating cost of energy and ease the political vise-grip that oil-producing nations hold on the rest of the world. There is a catch, though. You have to fly to the moon to get it.
ENGLAND--Plans to transport high levels of waste from London to parts of the South East for disposal have been slammed by Green MEP Dr. Caroline Lucas.“This is absolute madness – the South-East hasn’t got the facilities to deal with its own waste – let alone London’s,” said Dr. Lucas. “We must adopt a zero-waste strategy – as has been done successfully in parts of Australia and Canada – by improving re-use, composting and recycling and cutting packaging.”
South Korea to spend US$2.1 bln to fight global warming
South Korea plans to spend nearly 2 trillion won (US$2.1 billion) on research and development (R&D) on environmentally friendly technology over the next five years as part of efforts to tackle global warming, officials said Tuesday.
Study Says Oregon Power Plant Spreads Haze
A new federal study shows that a coal-burning power plant in Eastern Oregon causes pollution in 10 protected parks and wilderness areas in three states.
Our research has shown that this database is the most comprehensive data for U.S. fueling stations. The database contains detailed information on existing and planned stations around the country.
UK survey finds 85% of public in favor of renewables
A survey by market research company NOP, commissioned by the UK's Department of Trade and Industry, has found that 85% of the UK public support the use of renewable energy, 81% are in favor of wind power and just over three-fifths would be happy to live within 5 kilometers of a wind power plant, Energy Minister Malcolm Wicks said Wednesday.
US Economy Projected to Grow 3.6 Percent, Deficit Too High
The US economy is set to grow by a robust 3.6 percent in 2006, but the Federal Reserve should increase interest rates, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) said while warning strongly about high deficits, deep trade imbalances and low savings.
What's Moving the Oil Markets 052406
July IPE Brent futures contract was changing hands at $70.69/barrel, down 31cts from the overnight settle, during extremely thin trading.
The fall in Brent futures this morning is also partly due to expected builds in gasoline stocks, traders said, offsetting the projected draw in crude. "Near the end of the day in Europe, NYMEX unleaded futures started to fall on expectations of another build in gasoline which probably contributed to pulling the crude prices down a little," a trader said.
World Bank lending wing increases support for renewables
One of the world’s largest financing sources invested more than US$705 million last year in renewable energy and efficiency projects, “substantially greater” than in previous years.
The International Finance Corporation (IFC) says the funding was applied to 21 projects with a sustainable energy component which had a total value of $2.9 billion, it notes in its latest sustainability report
May 23, 2006
Algeria's Khelil sees pressure on oil prices into early 2007
Algerian oil minister Chakib Khelil said late Monday that oil prices were likely to remain high for the rest of the year and even into the first quarter of 2007 because of price pressure caused by tight spare production capacity which he said should be doubled to 4 million b/d to calm markets.
Australian State Slips Back Towards Drought
Drought is increasing across the key Australian cropping state of New South Wales as farmers wait for winter rains, a senior government minister said on Monday.
China to hike gasoil, gasoline prices Yuan 500mt May 24-- traders
The Chinese government is expected to hike its wholesale "guidance" prices for gasoil and gasoline nationwide. This would be the second price increase this year, following the last one on March 26, which boosted gasoil at the wholesale level by Yuan 200/mt and gasoline by Yuan 300/mt, and was deemed sorely insufficient for the Chinese refiners to recover their spiralling crude costs.
Coal stocks have rebounded above last year's levels, FERC says
Coal stockpiles at power plants have grown in recent months, according to a Federal Energy Regulatory Commission official. Coal stockpiles for power generation "are well above last year's levels,"
Earth-Solar Cycle Spurs Greenhouse Gases - Studies
Greenhouse gases are known to spur global warming, but scientists said on Monday that global warming in turn spurs greenhouse gas emissions -- which means Earth could get hotter faster than climate models predict.
EBRD and EIB Launch Greenhouse Gas Fund
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the European Investment Bank (EIB) have launched a carbon fund for rich nations to invest in clean energy projects in Central and Eastern Europe.
Environmentalists Say Canada Undermines Kyoto
The European Union urged Canada to respect goals for slowing global warming under the UN's Kyoto Protocol on Monday as environmentalists accused Ottawa of seeking to scupper the pact.
Ethanol's Demand for Corn May Trim US Meat Output
The ethanol market's hunger for corn has driven up corn prices and livestock analysts believe if corn prices continue rising, US cattle, hog, and chicken producers will cut production and that could trim meat supplies and possibly mean higher meat prices in 2007 or later.
EU's Dimas Expects Canada to Meet Kyoto Commitment
The European Union expects Canada to meet its climate change commitments under the international Kyoto Protocol, the bloc's Environment Commissioner Stavros Dimas said on Monday.
Finnish household power prices rise by 70%-90% from 2001
Lack of competition and low customer switching rates have helped force household power prices to jump in Finland by 70% to 90% from early 2001 to the current day, according to VaasaEMB, a Finnish Vaasa-based consultancy.
GE to license, develop Silex's uranium enrichment technology
GE Energy and Silex Systems have signed an agreement giving GE the right to license and develop the Australian company's uranium enrichment technology, the two companies announced today.
Hydroelectric Plan Gains Steam
Hamilton's desire to construct and operate a hydroelectric facility on the Ohio River is gaining momentum.
The rock band Pearl Jam finds itself caught up in a tussle over a proposal by the city of Seattle to build a waste transfer station on the site of a warehouse that the group uses as its headquarters.
India Prepares to Pay Billions for Nuclear Reactors
India could pay suppliers like General Electric 1.8 trillion rupees for nuclear reactors to meet energy demand once an international ban on the sale of the technology ends, an Indian official said.
IPE Brent futures up a dollar as bullish news goads funds buying
IPE Brent futures in London rose sharply in morning trading on Tuesday
breaking through $70/barrel and up over $1 at one stage building on late
Monday gains.
Renewed buying activity was supported the recovery of gasoline prices,
expectations of a large draw US crude stocks this week and suggestions that
OPEC might cut output when the cartel meets in Caracas June 1.
Iran Nuclear Plans May Be Environmental Hazard, UAE Says
The United Arab Emirates said on Monday Gulf countries planned to hold talks with Iran over concerns that Tehran's nuclear programme could pose an environmental threat to them.
Japan OKs Nuclear Waste Swap Deal With Britain
The Japanese government on Monday gave the green light for a plan to swap a large amount of low-level nuclear waste generated by Japanese power plants and reprocessed in Britain for a much smaller volume of high-level British nuclear waste.
Missouri begins cleanup of million-tire dump
The company will shred the waste tires for use as a substitute for gravel used in the leachate collection layer in a landfill. The state´s scrap tire fee will pay for the cleanup.
MIT Revamps Energy System for More Fuel-Efficient Cars
MIT researchers are trying to unleash the promise of an old idea by converting light into electricity more efficiently than ever before. The research is applying new materials, new technologies and new ideas to radically improve an old concept -- thermophotovoltaic (TPV) conversion of light into electricity. Rather than using the engine to turn a generator or alternator in a car, for example, the new TPV system would burn a little fuel to create super-bright light.
No illegal oil market manipulation in post-Katrina prices-- FTC
The US Federal Trade Commission said Monday that it had found "no instances of illegal market manipulation" of oil prices in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina last September, but that it did find 15 examples of price gouging.
Oil demand uncertainty bad for producers, consumers-- OPEC, IEA
Uncertainty over the rate of global oil demand growth is a hindrance to both producing and consuming countries because it complicates efforts to ensure appropriate investments are made to expand production and refining capacities, OPEC and the International Energy Agency said in a joint statement Monday following a workshop in Oslo.
Plan could beat energy crisis before it starts
The energy crisis that befell the Northwest in 2000 and 2001 may have cost the region as much as $6 billion, and thousands of jobs as well. Few saw it coming, and none far enough ahead to build generating plants that might have averted an economic catastrophe that lingers to this day.
Platinum, palladium prices plunge on NYMEX
With the gold market showing further weakness and the funds reducing their positions in other commodities, the PGMs have hitched onto the bandwagon. Platinum and palladium are heading south again on the NYMEX in a continuation of last week's sell-off, according to trade sources.
PRB deliveries not a problem this summer-- ReliabilityFirst
Although some Midwest electricity generators still report shortfalls in shipments of Powder River Basin coal, ReliabilityFirst, a regional organization of the North American Electric Reliability Council, paints a decidedly upbeat picture for fuel deliveries this summer in a newly released report.
Progress Energy Idles Production of Synthetic Fuel
Progress Energy today announced that it has idled production at its synthetic fuel facilities. The tax credits associated with synthetic fuel production begin to be phased out if the full-year average price of oil exceeds certain levels. Projections of oil prices for 2006 indicate that the value of the credits will be reduced and possibly eliminated altogether for this year.
Regulator fears spiral in fuel costs
The "death spiral" speech is a given in fights over proposed utility price increases -- usually made by a grocery chain mad that its light bill could go up. But this time it was a regulator -- not a grocer -- that raised the alarm about higher energy prices leading to lower energy use leading to even higher prices, and spinning out of control.
The concept of generating electric power from flying windmills originated with Prof. Bryan Roberts from the University of Technology in Sydney, Australia. These devices were to be tethered to the earth and fly at altitudes of between 15,000-feet and 30,000-ft where winds were strong, consistent and reliable. At its inception, the concept generated little interest from investors as it flew at the same altitude as commercial aircraft.
RWS to launch single-stream recycling in Maine
Regional Waste Systems, a nonprofit solid waste corporation, has voted to launch a single-stream recycling program in Maine. Two pilot projects tested the effectiveness of single-stream recycling. In Portland, Maine, the single-stream system reduced the time needed to complete recycling collection routes by 24 percent, Roche said.
Saudi Oil Firm Aramco Says Backs Greenhouse Gas Cut
Saudi Arabia, the world's biggest oil exporter, signalled on Monday it would help the fight against global warming through research on cutting carbon dioxide emissions in the oil and gas industry.
Scots Ministers Rule Out Nuclear Power Stations
Tony Blair's controversial bid to build a new generation of nuclear power stations is set to bypass Scotland. Senior government sources say that nuclear power suppliers have all but ruled out Scotland as a site for any new stations because of the prohibitive cost of transporting energy to England.
ScottishPower Faces Backlash on Profit Surge
ScottishPower is bracing itself for another backlash from customers this week, when it reports a huge surge in profits following recent price rises in electricity and gas. The utility is expected to unveil profits on continuing activities in the region of 40 per cent.
Solar buyback program is a big success for PNM
Public Service Company of New Mexico's new solar buyback
program has proved more popular than the company expected.
Solar technicians are in demand
Growing interest in solar energy has prompted a spike in demand for graduates from a small renewable-energy program at Farmington's San Juan College.
SWANA, Composting Council say bioreactors, composting can coexist
There´s a place for both composting and bioreactor landfills, the Solid Waste Association of North America and the United States Composting Council have agreed.
Tribe Seeks Greater Freedom to Kill Eagles
The Northern Arapaho Tribe and a man accused of shooting a bald eagle on the Wind River Indian Reservation say the federal government should make it easier for American Indians to apply to kill bald eagles for use in religious ceremonies.
US House to take up bill opening ANWR to oil, gas leasing
The US House of Representatives will take up this week legislation that
would open Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to oil and natural gas
leasing.
Billing it as a measure to increase domestic energy security and create
jobs, House Majority Leader John Boehner indicated on Thursday the chamber
would vote on H.R. 5249 Thursday.
US MMS proposes adopting offshore well flooding industry practice
The US Minerals Management Service on Monday proposed the adoption of an industry practice for the prevention of flooding of offshore oil and natural gas wells.
What's Moving the Oil Markets 052306
Renewed buying activity was supported the recovery of gasoline prices, expectations of a large draw US crude stocks this week and suggestions that OPEC might cut output when the cartel meets in Caracas June 1.
Wind-energy firm eyes Allegheny Mountains sites
Wind-energy developer Gamesa Corp. is considering the Allegheny Mountains north of Cresson to become part of the Allegheny Wind Ridge Farm.
May 22, 2006
$100 barrel oil-coming soon to an exchange near you
$100/barrel oil has gone from sensationalist claim to credible reality. Little more than a year ago, Goldman Sachs was castigated for releasing what was then seen as a self-serving report warning that oil could see a 'super spike', with crude prices reaching as high as $105/barrel. One year on and the front month crude contract on the New York Mercantile Exchange is averaging above $65/barrel for the year to date, after hitting an all time high on Apr 21 of $75.35/barrel.
Adequate power supplies expected for summer
Federal officials have concurred with state experts in concluding that Southern California should have adequate electricity supplies this summer, even in the event of a unusually warm season.
Australia May Develop Nuclear Power - PM Howard
Prime Minister John Howard says he has an open mind on the development of nuclear power in Australia, which has 40 percent of the world's known reserves of uranium, and has called for a full debate on the issue.
Biofuels Help Green the Department of Defense
The Fort Leonard Wood (FLW) U.S. Army base in Waynesville, Missouri, has used biofuels to displace more than 205,000 gallons of petroleum.
California should set a goal of producing 50 percent of its energy from renewable energy resources by 2025, the head of the national geothermal trade association, Geothermal Energy Association (GEA), told state energy officials.
"California officials, including the Governor, talk about driving vehicles powered with new fuels, but they need to make the commitment to produce those fuels in California using 100 percent renewable energy," Karl Gawell, executive director of GEA told the summit attendees.
Boom seen in Freedom Field, just not real soon. Lindstrom believes that the nation is about to begin ?a third industrial revolution? focused on products related to alternative energy. He said Freedom Field will help position the region as a center of manufacturing for wind and solar equipment.
Canadian unions, oil sands developers prepare for court battle
Organized labor, the Alberta government and oil sands developers will clash in a provincial court Tuesday in a showdown that has implications for work rules on oil sands construction sites and the hiring of temporary foreign workers.
Clinton Says Must 'Get Off Our Butts' to Stop Warming
Former President Bill Clinton said on Saturday global warming is a greater threat to the future than terrorism and that the United States and other countries must "get off our butts" and do something about it.
Coal market waits on weather and buyers as stockpiles grow
The coal market is moving sideways right now as utilities move through the shoulder months, but prices may rise toward the end of the year as winter approaches.
Dane County Power Plan Draws Resistance; High-Voltage Line Could Stretch for 55 Miles
Putting a high-voltage transmission line through Wisconsin's center of environmental activism was never going to be easy.
But the former head of a group that battled utilities over the controversial Wausau-to-Duluth power line said even he's surprised by the anger and angst aroused by American Transmission Co.'s plan to build a 35- to 55-mile, 345,000-volt power line across Dane County.
Despite all the dangers, city boses say-- We must have nuclear power
Responding to Mr Blair's announcement, chamber policy executive Charlotte Ritchie said: "Businesses require a substantial level of energy usage to function and given current economics and the UK's responsibility to achieve a reduction in carbon emissions through the Kyoto targets, they see nuclear as the only realistic option.
Dutch giant switches on light to energy saving
Theo van Deursen, executive vice-president of the Dutch giant and CEO of its lighting business, said in an interview in Beijing that energy saving has been regarded by China as a major task and his company would hope to contribute to the process.
Energy Secretary Says Coal, Oil Will Power U.S. For Decades
Oil and coal will continue to power the U.S. economy for many years, even as more emphasis is put on developing alternative sources of energy, U.S. Secretary of Energy Samuel Bodman said Saturday in Houston.
"Fossil fuels will continue to dominate ... for several decades at least," Bodman said.
Engineer's home may run on solar hydrogen power
Mike Strizki is tired of waiting.The 49-year-old engineer hopes to help usher in the high-tech future of renewable energy from his 12-acre property in the Sourland Mountains by having the nation's first solar/hydrogen-powered home.
EU Nations Say Scarcity Essential for CO2 Market
European Union countries are not concerned about recent developments in the carbon dioxide (CO2) trading market and believe that scarcity is essential for the scheme to work properly, EU ministers said.
EU Says US, China Open to Global Emissions Trade
The European Union's environment chief said on Friday the United States was open to discussing a global greenhouse gas emissions market, but the US government said it remained opposed to mandatory caps on emissions as called for by the Kyoto Protocol.
Fujian to get 6 nuclear reactors
The nation's biggest nuclear reactor builder, China National Nuclear Corp (CNNC), has signed an agreement with one of China's top five power producers to build six reactors in East China's Fujian Province.
GE Ecomagination Revenues Cross $10 Billion
GE has released its 2005 ecomagination
report, showing that revenues from the sale of energy efficient and
environmentally advanced products and services hit $10.1 billion in
2005, up from $6.2 billion in 2004 -- with orders nearly doubling to $17
billion.
"Ecomagination is paying off for our investors and customers," said GE
Chairman and CEO Jeff Immelt.
ethanol, hydrogen should be focus
General Motors CEO Rick Wagoner said in an interview last week that the automaker needs to compete in the hybrid market for “image reasons,” and would rather see a focus on ethanol, and later, hydrogen fuel. He said it’s not clear how much further hybrid sales will grow, but there’s certainly a “natural limit” to demand for the vehicles.
Green Flight Program for Business Travelers Launches in Canada
UNIGLOBE Travel Inc. has introduced its new Green Flight program, which allows business travelers to counter the effects of their flight's carbon dioxide emissions. The Green Flight Program is Ecologo certified under the Environmental Choice Program from Environment Canada.
Hydrogen Engine Center to expand
The HEC is the world’s only production engine manufacturer for alternative fuel-based engines. The engines can run on hydrogen, gasoline, propane, natural gas or ethanol interchangeably, as well as certain combinations of fuels. Minor adjustments are required to ‘‘retune’’ or change the compatibility of an engine, which, Hollinger said, can be made over the Internet or by phone.
Hydrogen from algae - fuel of the future?
The green energy of the future: A German-Australian research team has succeeded in breeding algae, which produce hydrogen in previously unheard-of quantities.
Hydrogen Offers a Helping Hand to Diesel
Two events occurred this past week that highlighted different roles--and potential--for hydrogen used directly in a vehicle. (Hydrogen is already indispensable to the petroleum refining industry, among others.)
Iowa Company Hopes to Make Gasoline Obsolete
While much of the world fumes over escalating fuel prices, a small company in north central Iowa is quietly hoping to make gasoline obsolete as an engine fuel. The engine can run on a number of fuels including hydrogen, ethanol, natural gas, propane or digester gas from landfills.
IPE Brent falls as investors drop long positions on rising dollar
Front-month IPE Brent futures were at a six-week low Monday, as continued cross-commodity selling by investors on a resurgence in the US dollar, caused crude futures to fall once again, traders said.
Iran, Pakistan begin gas pipeline talks, India to join in
Officials from Pakistan and Iran met in Islamabad Sunday to discuss issues like pricing, trilateral framework and appointment of consultants to carry out feasibility studies over the planned Iran-Pakistan-India gas pipeline project,
Kewaunee Plant Faces Scrutiny Again; Nuclear Agency Says Start-Up Procedures Were Not Followed
The NRC said it is looking into a situation "in which plant operators did not follow procedures while starting up the reactor" on Wednesday. Jim Norvelle, a Dominion spokesman, said his company is also investigating what happened. The start-up was delayed, he said, when a problem was detected with the plant's turbine generator.
Natural gas prices low - for now
With the price of natural gas at a 15-month low, the industry that supplies this mostly domestic fuel has a message to consumers: don't get used to it.
Nuclear Power Splits EU Despite Common-Policy Bid
While the European Union attempts to form a common energy policy, one subject continues to divide: nuclear power.
Oil stocks high but crude prices still worrying-- senior delegate
OPEC has no plans to change its oil production ceiling of 28 million b/d when ministers meet in Caracas June 1 because oil prices are too high and were expected to remain at current levels moving into the third quarter with the next US hurricane season approaching, a senior OPEC delegate said Monday. "Stocks are high. The price is still high and you are approaching the third quarter and the hurricane season is coming," said the delegate, requesting anonymity.
Petrobras debuts new low-sulfur diesel using vegetable oils
The new technology, which Petrobras calls H-Bio, takes diesel fractions and adds hydrogen and vegetable oil, such as soy, to churn out a high-quality, low sulfur diesel fuel, the company said in a statement on its website Friday.
Precious metals prices in plunge in New York on fund selloff
Fund managers and other big speculators were in a selling mood on the New York futures exchanges Friday morning, dumping long positions in precious metals as though they were in a hurry to lighten up their positions. As a result, the entire precious metals complex was heading south.
Professor pioneers work on hydrogen batteries
John Wilkes, a chemistry professor at the academy, says hydrogen could be the answer to creating batteries with better endurance.
“There are some niches where hydrogen is clearly superior to any other fuel, and that’s for what we call personal electric power,” Wilkes said. “The principle project comes down to hydrogen storage.”
-"I do not think we have yet exhausted a diplomatic
solution to this issue, so the talk about other options and sanctions is
premature and will not produce the desired results."
- Saudi Foreign Minister
Saud al-Faisal reiterating his opposition to sanctions against Iran during a
joint press conference with his visiting Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov
"Stocks are high. The price is still high and you are
approaching the third quarter and the hurricane season is coming. We are
worried. We see the price continuing on the high side."
- A senior OPEC delegate
said Monday
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 052206
Solar activity is expected to be very low. The geomagnetic field is expected to be quiet.
Report Says Ozone Hole May Disappear by 2050
The ozone hole over the Antarctic is likely to begin contracting in the future and may disappear by 2050 because of a reduction in the release of chlorofluorocarbons and other ozone-depleting gases, according to a team of Japanese scientists.
Researchers Finger Top 100 Corporate Polluters
"The Toxic 100 informs consumers and shareholders which large corporations release the most toxic pollutants into our air," says James K. Boyce, director of PERI's environment program. "We measure not just how many pounds of pollutants are released, but which are the most toxic and how many people are at risk. People have a right to know about toxic hazards to which they are exposed. Legislators need to understand the effects of pollution on their constituents."
Solving Business Problems-- The Focus of IT
"Bringing value to the business as a technology professional has nothing really to do with managing computers. It has everything to do with understanding what business problems the business is facing." -- Utility CIO
Some Apes, Birds Can Think Ahead, Studies Show
Apes that remember to carry the right tools to retrieve treats and scrub jays that hide food a second time when they think a rival is watching prove animals can think ahead -- a trait once believed to be uniquely human, scientists have found.
U.S. Company to Supply Power-Generation Equipment to China
With direct assistance from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other federal partners, U.S. engine manufacturer Caterpillar Inc. received a $58 million contract from China to supply power generation equipment for the world's largest power plant fueled by methane from coal mines.
US FERC issues draft EIS endorsing two Gulf LNG projects
US Federal Energy Regulatory Commission staff Friday issued draft environmental impact statements that found two proposed liquefied natural gas terminals along the Gulf Coast would have "limited adverse environment impacts," assuming proposed and recommended mitigation steps are taken.
Weather-Hit Crops Tighten European Wheat Supply
Flooded fields in central Europe, a harsh Black Sea winter and low rainfall in France have dimmed the prospects for this summer's wheat crop, adding to tightening world supplies next season, analysts said on Friday.
What's Moving the Oil Markets 052206
•Front-month IPE Brent futures were at a six-week low
Monday, as continued cross-commodity selling by investors on a resurgence in the
US dollar, caused crude futures to fall once again, traders said. The July IPE Brent futures contract was changing hands at $67.94/barrel, down 74
cents, a level not seen since April 10.
•The recent fall has been due to investors, such as hedge funds, liquidating
heir long positions
•One of the main reasons for the recent weakening of IPE Brent has been due to
the strengthening of the US dollar.
May 19, 2006
APS weighing two new reactors at Palo Verde nuke plant
The operator of the nation's largest nuclear power plant is considering adding two new reactors to the Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station to meet the region's skyrocketing power needs.
Arctic Town Booms on Oil and Gas Hopes
House prices in one of the world's most northerly towns are rocketing thanks to hopes for an Arctic oil and gas boom, and the local council can finally afford a fence to keep out reindeer.
Biodiesel Made from Algae in Sewage Ponds
Aquaflow Bionomic Corporation has produced its first sample of homegrown biodiesel fuel using algae sourced from sewerage ponds in its region of New Zealand. In what could be the first such sample of biodiesel in the world, the breakthrough came after Aquaflow undertook a pilot project to extract algae from its excess pond discharge.
Blair-- New nuclear power stations not sole solution to energy needs
Building a new generation of British nuclear power stations could not be the sole solution to meeting future energy needs, but must be seriously considered if Britain is to avoid dependence on foreign gas imports, Prime Minister Tony Blair said Wednesday.
Bush continues advocating new nuclear
President George W. Bush said the US must start building new nuclear power plants "to maintain our economic leadership and strengthen our energy security."
'Californians For Clean Energy' Seek Part of Oil Profits
When Exxon-Mobile reported the highest annual profit of any company in U.S. history last year ($36.1 billion), advocates of clean energy -- along with economically squeezed motorists -- saw a way to balance the scales: direct a portion of the oil companies' windfall toward alternate sources of fuel. As prices at the pump climbed and accusations of price gouging ensued, the idea gained widespread support.
China is World's Leading Investor in Renewable Energy
China has become the top investor in renewable energy in the world, experts said Tuesday at the ongoing forum for decentralized sustainable energy solutions in China.
China Struggles to Stop its Largest Lake Shrinking
Lake Qinghai, holy to ethnic Tibetans such as Longben, is shrinking, hit by declining rainfall and desertification partly caused by overgrazing. Some also blame global warming.
Coal-to-gas fuel switching may narrow storage surplus-- analyst
A pronounced shift to gas-fired generation in place of coal could help wipe out the sizeable surplus in US gas storage inventories, but only if front-month NYMEX gas futures prices average near $5.50/Mcf for most of the summer, an industry analyst said.
Consequences of no Yucca Mountain
Nearly four years ago, Congress overwhelmingly ratified the President’s February 15, 2002, recommendation to proceed with licensing and development of a permanent repository for the nation’s civilian and defense nuclear waste disposal at Yucca Mountain, Nevada. One would have thought that the repository was on its way to being completed. This is not the case.
Energy Foreigners will power UK's next nuclear age Britain will have to look abroad for expertise
WHEN Tony Blair promised on Tuesday to put the building of nuclear power stations "back on the agenda'' few people doubted that this was effectively a green light that Britain would construct a new generation of reactors.
EPA Announces New Report on Use of Innovative Technology Programs
EPA is announcing the release of a report that evaluates EPA's stimulation, facilitation, and use of innovative technology programs to further the agency's mission to protect public health and the environment.
EU emissions trading vision shrouded in doubt
With 21 of 25 member states having verified their 2005 emissions, Brussels has confirmed that the inaugural year of the European emissions trading scheme has a surplus of allowances. The emphasis on genuine carbon abatement must now shift to the second phase, however massive political and legal uncertainties still remain,
FERC, echoing others, sees few summer power problems
While it has continuing concerns about certain key load pockets, US Federal Energy Regulatory Commission staff on Thursday offered a somewhat brighter assessment of market and operational conditions in place as the country enters the summer cooling season.
Honda zeroing in on site for low-environmental-impact auto plant
Honda is planning a new $400 million plant that will build an additional 200,000 vehicles per year and feature what the company calls "the smallest environmental impact of any Honda automobile plant in North America."
House Democrats Take a Stand for U.S. Biodiesel
In response to public demand for new direction and leadership to meet the energy needs of America's families, Democrats in the House of Representatives announced a plan to invest in America, grow our energy and establish energy independence. "This plan is homegrown and American-owned," said House Democratic Caucus Chairman James E. Clyburn.
House Panel OKs Option of Private Nuclear Waste Facility
The Energy Department can consider a private facility for temporarily storing nuclear waste before the federal repository at Yucca Mountain is ready to receive it, the House Appropriations Committee decided Wednesday.
Industry wants quick disclosure of tritium leaks
Faced with growing concerns over radiological contamination of groundwater, the nuclear industry has adopted new guidelines for monitoring tritium leaks.
IPE Brent crude gains ground, hovers around $70 barrel
IPE Brent crude futures rose slightly early Friday hovering around the $70/barrel mark, slowing the volatility seen throughout the week where intra-day ranges have been above one dollar since Monday, traders said.
Livermore lab's 'nanotube' work could help curb global warming
Microscopic tubes made of carbon could provide a cheaper way to remove salt from sea water and to separate carbon dioxide from power plant emissions, one step toward curbing global warming.
Massachusetts city fined $36,000 for wastewater discharges
The city of Holyoke, Mass., will pay a $36,000 fine to settle a complaint brought by federal environmental officials about wastewater discharges from the city´s sewer system in violation of the Clean Water Act.
Morocco Rules Out Nuclear Option to Ease Oil Burden
Morocco said on Thursday it has no plan to build nuclear plants to ease the burden of higher imported crude oil on state finances.
New York spot ethanol hits record $3.33 gal-- traders
Ethanol prices in New York Harbor hit a new all time high on Thursday
of $3.33/gal heard done, market source said.
This is strongest prices have been since Platts began assessing ethanol.
Nuclear's comeback has unknowns far beyond what to do with waste
SO NOW it's official. Tony Blair, the Prime Minister, says nuclear power is "back on the agenda with a vengeance" - a comment that can safely be taken as confirmation of what had become the government's worst kept secret: new nuclear power stations are on the way.
Poor States Seen Escaping Kyoto Climate Caps
Poor nations are seeking aid and technology to combat global warming with no expectation at U.N. climate talks that they will be forced to join rich nations and cut emissions of heat-trapping gases.
Precious metals complex sets volume record on CBOT
Trading volume for the electronically traded precious metals complex on the Chicago Board of Trade (CBOT) reached an all-time high of 102,237 contracts by the close of trading May 17, surpassing the previous record of 100,589 contracts set on May 11, the CBOT said Thursday.
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 051906
The geomagnetic field was at quiet to minor storm levels. Solar wind speed at ACE showed an increase beginning around 18/0500 UTC as a coronal hole high speed stream moved into geoeffective position.
Russia Said to Launch Reactors in 2010
Russia will commission at least two nuclear reactors a year beginning in 2010 as part of a massive effort to expand its nuclear energy sector, Russia's top nuclear official said Wednesday.
Senators Snap Over Mixed Messages on Yucca Project
There are remaining technical questions about the proposed Yucca Mountain nuclear waste repository, but the Department of Energy is making progress on them, a science expert said.
No way, insisted an official for the state of Nevada. DOE "is bogged down in a morass of technical, legal and managerial problems, and it is unrealistic to imagine the project can pull itself out."
South Korea launches compulsory measures to cut oil consumption
South Korea will restrict the use of cars by government and public officials as part of efforts to reduce oil consumption, the energy ministry said Friday.
Swell Potential for Maine Ocean Energy
In a one-year study of Maine's tidal power potential, the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) concluded that it provides an excellent resource that could produce electricity at costs competitive with wind and natural gas, and less expensive than solar and so-called "clean coal." And, like wind and solar, capturing energy from the tides emits no greenhouse gases.
Temperatures Hit Record May Highs in Central Spain
Temperatures in parts of central Spain set record highs for May this week, the National Meteorological Institute said on Thursday.
The Enron case is now in the hands of the jury. But, long after a verdict is reached, prosecutors and investigators will study computer forensics and how it helped unravel a complex web of fraud and deceit. Many of the issues surround the destruction of documents and the ultimate retrieval of them through technologies that allow experts to rummage through computer hardware.
The outlook for the US economy may be dimming. Inflation is rising, housing is slowing, the dollar has been falling and the Federal Reserve may have to raise interest rates more than it once thought. Although most analysts, including those at the Economist Intelligence Unit, expect the economy to slow later in the year, the ride could be bumpier than anyone imagined.
US House vote rules out opening OCS for gas drilling
By a 217-203 vote, the US House of Representatives late Thursday stripped from the Interior Department's fiscal 2007 spending bill language that would have opened all of the Outer Continental Shelf to natural gas drilling.
US Long Term Mortgage Rates Drift Higher this Week
Freddie Mac yesterday released the results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey (PMMS) in which the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) averaged 6.60 percent, with an average 0.5 point, for the week ending May 18, 2006, up from last week’s average of 6.58 percent.
Above normal temperatures should remain over the South-Central and Southeast, and below normal temperatures over the Northwest. Some minor warmth may spill farther up the Atlantic coast.
US, Canada to take 50% of world LNG supply by 2015-- Consultant
The Atlantic Basin by 2015 will account for half of the global liquefied natural gas trade, an amount equal to the volumes imported by the Asia Pacific region, which has been the world's leading LNG importer since 2000, according to forecasts by consultant Poten & Partners.
What's Moving the Oil Markets 051906
•IPE Brent crude futures rose slightly early Friday
hovering around the $70/barrel mark, slowing the volatility seen throughout the
week where intra-day ranges have been above one dollar since Monday, traders
said. At 1112 London time, the July IPE Brent futures contract was traded at
$70.08/barrel, up 41cts from Thursday's close, after having opened in early
electronic trading at $70.13/barrel.
•"The financial and commodity markets seem to be linked more so than usual
May 18, 2006
Call them terrorists, call them resistance fighters. A significant member of one such group spoke to IPS about why he joined.
Algeria, Venezuela pledge joint effort to stabilize oil prices
The presidents of Algeria and Venezuela agreed after talks in Algiers this week to bolster joint cooperation within OPEC and work jointly towards stabilizing oil prices on world markets.
Aluminum can recycling rate up for second straight year
The U.S. aluminum can recycling rate increased for the second consecutive year, though the number of cans returned dropped slightly. Americans recycled 51.4 billion aluminum cans in 2005, for a recycling rate of 52.0 percent.
Bush Fire Put Out Near Pakistani Nuclear Facility
Firefighters put out a bush fire near a Pakistani nuclear facility in central Punjab province without any loss of life or damage to property, officials at the facility told Reuters on Wednesday.
Bush signs tax bill into law; major oil companies targeted
President George W. Bush Wednesday signed into law legislation that slashes US taxpayers' obligations by $70 billion, but that ups the taxes of some of the largest oil companies.
Canadian Oil Production Seen Doubling by 2020
Canada's oil production could double by 2020 as new projects in the country's oil sands more than replace declining conventional output, the Canadian oil industry's biggest lobby group said Wednesday.
'Carbon Dioxide... We Call It Life,' US TV Ads Say
A little girl blows away dandelion fluff as an announcer says, "Carbon dioxide: they call it pollution; we call it life," in an advertisement targeting global warming "alarmists," especially Al Gore.
Climate Expert to Lead Talks on Extending Kyoto Deal
A UN conference picked a veteran Maltese climate expert on Wednesday to lead talks about how to overcome deep policy splits on global warming and extend the UN's Kyoto Protocol beyond 2012.
Congress unveils new mine safety legislation, tougher penalties
While some states have passed mine safety legislation, congressional leaders in the Senate and the House have yet to turn any proposals into action. But members of the House and Senate introduced federal mine safety legislation on Tuesday.
Democrats unveil energy independence plan; ask Bush for support
Democratic US senators Wednesday unveiled a five-point plan for energy independence and criticized Republicans for failing to do enough to address the nation's need for home-grown fuels. Forty-three senators sent a letter to President Bush asking him to urge Republican lawmakers to take up the plan in this Congress.
Drinking Water Fund Tops $9 Billion for Infrastructure
EPA, all 50 states and Puerto Rico have invested almost $9.5 billion in drinking water improvements since 1996, according to the just-released Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) 2005 annual report.
DuPont to invest $100 million to develop solar-cell technologies
DuPont says it supplies eight of nine key materials used in solar panels, including conductive pastes and high-performance films.
"The world needs new sources of clean energy now," said John Ranieri, vice president and general manager of DuPont Bio-Based Materials. "Alternative energy is already an important market segment across several of our commerical product offerings, and we have strong pipelines that will further drive growth into alternative energy markets."
EPA watchdog questions agency´s conclusion regarding mercury hot spots
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency´s inspector general is questioning the agency´s conclusion that the new mercury rule for emissions at power plants won´t result in hot spots. Acting EPA Inspector General Bill Roderick issued a May 15 report citing "several uncertainties associated with key variables in the analysis" that could affect the agency´s conclusion that the Clean Air Mercury Rule would not result in mercury hot spots.
Gas supply key to global energy security-- Report
Fast-growing natural gas demand worldwide will present new challenges to
maintaining global energy and economic security, according to a report
released Wednesday by Cambridge Energy Research Associates and the World
Economic Forum.
GE expanding nuclear site-- Wilmington facility to consolidate engineers, technicians
Rising out of the flatlands here is GE Energy's $450 million wager on a future for nuclear energy. GE is one of three nuclear powerhouses, along with Areva and Westinghouse, vying for the international market. All three are counting on billions of dollars in federal subsidies for U.S. utilities, along with global warming concerns and rising energy costs, to open the way to the construction of scores of new nuclear plants in this country.
Green power output in U.S. increases 11%
Net generation of electricity from non-hydro renewable energy facilities in the United States has increased 11% over the last year, according to the Department of Energy.
House Approves Bill to Speed Logging in Burned Forests
The House on Wednesday approved a bill to speed up the logging of burned forests and planting of new trees after storms and wildfires. "As Americans, we like our wood products," said Rep. Greg Walden, R-Ore., the bill's chief sponsor. "We build homes and furniture from wood. So if you're going to use wood, doesn't it make sense to first use burned, dead trees, rather than cut down rain forests" in South America or other places.
Like A Hot Knife Through Butter: L.A. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa´s commingled-cops-and-trash plan skated through the City Council Tuesday. The lawmakers unanimously approved the mayor´s proposal to double the city´s garbage rate to help fund a major expansion of its police force. Nary a breath of debate was expended before the council´s vote.
Indonesia to propose OPEC raise oil production on June 1-- Purnomo
Indonesia will propose that OPEC raise oil production in order to bring oil prices down from current high levels when ministers meet in Caracas June 1, Indonesian oil minister Purnomo Yusgiantoro said Thursday. "We want OPEC to lower the oil price. At least OPEC should roll over its current production or increase its output if possible," Purnomo told reporters.
IPE Brent extends fall on bearish US gasoil, gasoline data
IPE Brent futures in London slipped further in early Thursday trading as continued concern over gasoline demand and a build in gasoline stocks in the US weighs heavily on the market, brokers said. US gasoline demand in April was off 1.9%, or 173,000 b/d.
Iran Nuclear Conflict Is About U.S. Dominance
As the George W. Bush administration pushes for a showdown over Iran's nuclear programme in the U.N. Security Council, it has presented the issue as a matter of global security -- an Iranian nuclear threat in defiance of the international community.
Massey's environmental stewardship questioned
They asked about the damage caused by surface mining, the safety of slurry impoundments and the safety of drinking water supplies downstream from impoundments.
Most of DOE nuclear programs to be fully funded in FY-07 bill
Most of the Department of Energy's nuclear energy programs would be fully funded under the FY 2007 energy and water funding bill that the House Appropriations Committee approved Wednesday.
Muslim Nations Want Nuclear Energy, Wary of Iran
As the West debates the perceived Iranian nuclear threat, leaders of the world's eight largest Muslim countries, collectively known as the D8, met on this resort island over the weekend where they asserted the right of Islamic countries to peaceful nuclear energy.
New technology needed to make deep-water offshore wind competitive
The offshore wind energy industry in the United States is in its infancy, but it has the potential to become a major contributor to the electricity market, concludes a report prepared for the National Renewable Energy Laboratory.
Refiners say Congress must 'draw the line' on ethanol subsidies
Using funds intended to clean up and repair leaking underground storage tanks to help pay for the installation at service stations of equipment to dispense E85, an 85% ethanol/15% gasoline blend, is going a step too far, the National Petrochemical and Refiners Association said Wednesday.
Scientists Back Plug-In Hybrids
A group of scientists urged Congress on Wednesday to fund research for plug-in hybrid vehicles, touting the technology as another way to reduce the nation's dependence on oil through the help of a simple electrical socket.
Scottish guide encourages wind, solar and geothermal heat pumps
The Scottish Executive has released a Planning Advice Note to promote the use of micro-renewables from solar panels, small wind turbines and earth energy heat pumps.
Snow on the International Financial System and the Global Economy--Speech
The following is the testimony before the U.S. House of Representatives' Financial Services Committee yesterday, Treasury Secretary John Snow outlined Administration efforts to achieve "strong and durable economic growth in the United States and in the global economy.
Solar association estimates potential for grid-connected PV
Canada’s largest province could install 3,400 MW of solar PV panels by 2025, out of a technical potential of 14,000 MW, according to the industry association. “The market for PV is well developed in off-grid applications and does not need major support,” says the Canadian Solar Industries Association
Spain Says Public Should Have Say on Nuclear Power
The public should have a say in the future of nuclear power in Spain, a government-led study concluded on Wednesday, after six months of discussions.
Tens of Thousands Evacuated as Typhoon Targets China
China evacuated more than 600,000 people as the strongest typhoon on record to enter the South China Sea in May bore down on the south coast on Wednesday, causing flight and shipping delays around the region.
The Spectre of Nuclear Hangs Over the UK Energy Sector
This brief provides an analysis of the opinion of industry stakeholders on the challenges to the power and gas sector. Surveys were completed with three groups of industry stakeholders. Analysis of views of energy sector stakeholders on security of supply, reducing CO2 emissions and increases in energy prices. Massive challenges face the energy sector, not just prices and stakeholders believe the UK energy market needs to face up to its challenges.
Transport a Black Spot for Global Warming - UN
Transport is the worst offender for releasing greenhouse gases into the atmosphere and governments must do more to cut emissions from cars and trucks, the UN's climate change chief said on Wednesday.
U.S. Navy Sinks Old Warship for Reef off Florida
The U.S. Navy blasted holes in the retired U.S. aircraft carrier Oriskany off Florida's coast Wednesday and sent the warship to the bottom of the Gulf of Mexico as the world's largest intentionally created artificial reef.
UK Prime Minister pushes for new wave of nuclear plants
Prime Minister Tony Blair is pushing for a new wave of nuclear plants in the UK after receiving an advanced copy May 15 of his government's energy review. "The facts are stark," he told the Confederation of British Industry at the CBI's annual dinner in London last night. By 2025, if current policy remained unchanged, the UK will have dramatically failed to meet its carbon dioxide emission reduction targets and will be 90% dependent on foreign gas imports...The replacement of Britain's nuclear power stations is "back on the agenda with a vengeance," he said.
Why can't we fill energy gap with renewable sources
Why is nuclear power back on the political agenda?
Britain is heading for an energy gap caused by rising demand and falling supply and some see nuclear power as the only way of filling that gap. Nuclear power stations supply about a quarter of the country's electricity but that figure will fall in the coming decade as older stations are decommissioned.
UK can meet power demand from renewables rather than nuclear, says WWF
The UK can meet its energy needs and reduce the impact of climate change by increasing the use of renewable energy, says a study produced for the WWF conservation group.
Westar to announce site of coal-fired power plant
Westar Energy expects to announce later this year the results of its site selection process for a new coal-fired power plant in Kansas, chief executive Jim Haines said Tuesday.
Wind could drop price of hydrogen production in half
The cost of producing hydrogen from wind turbines will drop in half, according to research commissioned by the U.S. National Renewable Energy Laboratory.
Zero-energy homes could save 17% of U.S. residential energy by 2050
The concept of zero-energy homes could begin to diffuse into the U.S. residential market by 2012, and save 19% of all energy consumption in single-family homes by 2050.
“Zero energy homes are technically feasible today,” says the National Association of Home Builders in its study,
May 17, 2006
1989 Exxon Valdez Oil Spill Still a Threat - Study
Oil spilled 17 years ago by the tanker Exxon Valdez still threatens wildlife around Alaska's Prince William Sound, scientists reported on Tuesday, a finding that could add US$100 million to cleanup costs for Exxon Mobil Corp.
AIG Adopts First Policy on Global Climate Change
American International Group Inc. this week became the first major US insurer to adopt a policy on climate change, saying it would develop projects to keep greenhouse gases out of the atmosphere.
Calif. container recycling rate increased to 61% in 2005
The California container recycling rate increased significantly last year.
Californians recycled 61 percent of the beverage containers covered under the state´s redemption law in 2005, a total of about 12.4 million containers.
Canada to Slash Last Remaining Federal Solar Program
Canadian Federal support for commercial-scale solar thermal projects may soon be a thing of the past. "There's a slash and burn going on right now in Canada to eliminate anything that doesn't fit into the Conservative agenda. Just as we're starting to get going as an industry, firing on one cylinder, there was this change in the Federal Government."
Canada, Others Interested in US Climate Pact
Countries including Canada are expressing interest in a US-led six-nation scheme to combat global warming set up after Washington rejected the UN's Kyoto Protocol, a US official said on Tuesday.
Drought Tightens Grip on Southern England
Millions of Britons face tough water restrictions this summer as the worst drought in 100 years threatens parts of the country, the government and water companies said on Tuesday.
Emera set to invest C$350 mil in Canada-US gas pipeline
Canada's Emera said Tuesday it will invest about C$350 million (US$315
million) for full ownership of a proposed pipeline that will deliver natural
gas from a planned LNG terminal near Saint John, New Brunswick, to markets in
Canada and the US Northeast.
European Solar Photovoltaic Update
It's no surprise some of this week's notable European solar photovoltaic (PV) announcements involve Germany and Spain, each a top solar market thanks to strong feed-in energy policies.
Green Building Survey Shows 20% Growth in 2005, 30% in 2006
Preliminary results of a McGraw-Hill Construction/National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) survey indicated that there was a 20% increase in 2005 among those in the home building community who are focusing their attention on green, environmentally- responsible building, which is expected to increase by another 30% this year.
Home builders switch on the 'invisible' solar panels
Now that solar panels aren't the ugly ducklings of architecture, home developers are touting solar energy as the latest feature in new homes.Twelve developers in California have kicked off plans in recent weeks to integrate solar tiles from PowerLight into hundreds of new homes over the next few years.
House to consider bill aimed at increasing biofuel production
A North Carolina congressman has introduced legislation in the House that would increase production of cleaner-burning biofuels.
The bill introduced by Rep. Bob Etheridge, D-N.C., would double the percentage of renewable fuels sold in America in six years and extend tax credits for ethanol and biodiesel through 2015 while increasing tax benefits to small ethanol producers.
"Terrorists like garbage on the streets." Those chilling words were uttered recently by a city official in Baghdad (where else?), in a Reuters story about the explosive perils faced by street cleaners and other municipal workers in Iraq´s capital.
India Says Poverty a Worse Problem Than Climate
India said on Tuesday that poor nations had to give priority to ending poverty rather than fighting global warming at 189-nation UN climate talks criticised by environmentalists as a rambling talk shop.
No need for OPEC to hike output at next meeting-- Algeria's Khelil
OPEC does not need to increase production at its next meeting in Caracas on June 1 because it is geopolitical concerns, not a lack of oil, that is keeping prices at current high levels, Algerian Oil Minister Chakib Khelil said Tuesday.
Ohio Explores Plans for Alternate Power Source
Ohio is taking gradual steps to try and take advantage of increased interest in energy production from renewable resources as the nation struggles with higher energy prices.
OPEC raises 'call' on its own oil for 2006 to 28.62 mil b/d
OPEC cut its forecast for world oil demand growth this year on Wednesday, saying that high prices were contributing to a slowdown in incremental demand in developed countries.
Pacific Gas and Electric Company Adds More Renewable Energy to Customer Electric Mix
Pacific Gas and Electric Company today announced it has secured an additional 105 megawatts (MW) of clean, renewable energy resources to help meet its customers' future electricity needs. These resources will add enough generation to supply nearly 80,000 PG&E customers with clean, reliable renewable energy.
Performance problems continue at Perry, Point Beach nukes-- US NRC
FirstEnergy's Perry nuclear plant in Ohio and Wisconsin Electric Power's Point Beach nuclear unit in Wisconsin continued to show significant performance problems last year, senior managers with the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission said Tuesday.
Philippines allows for lower oil import tariff amid rising prices
The Philippine government has put in place a mechanism whereby crude and
oil product import tariff rates will be automatically lowered from the current
3% level should the price of Dubai crude and gasoil prices in Singapore, based
on Platts assessments, reach certain levels, the Department of Energy said
Wednesday.
Prime Minister Tony Blair’s view that nuclear power is ‘back on the agenda with a vengeance”, announced last night at a CBI address, has been savaged by environmental commentators who called the move “recklessly incompetent”.
Power Plant Must Prove Cooling System Safe
The operator of a controversial power plant that draws 226 million gallons of water a day from the San Francisco Bay to cool its turbines has 21/2years to either prove its pumps cause no harm to the Bay or shut them down.
Quantum Delivers Hydrogen Hybrid Vehicles to Burbank
Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide, Inc. has delivered five hydrogen-fueled Toyota Prius hybrid vehicles to the City of Burbank, Calif. This is part of a larger South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) program to develop and demonstrate 30 hydrogen hybrid vehicles to fleets in Southern California.
"The largest share of the increase in world oil demand
growth will come mainly from the developing world, mostly due to the strong
economic growth. However, the high oil prices and the removal of the fuel
subsidies are expected to negatively impact oil demand, especially in South-East
Asia."
- An OPEC report said as
OPEC cut its forecast for world oil demand growth this year on Wednesday, saying
that high prices were contributing to a slowdown in incremental demand in
developed countries.
"We accepted a suspension for two years. This was a
bitter experience for the Iranian people. The Iranians won't be bitten twice on
the same spot."
- Iranian President
Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said in a speech in the town of Arak on Wednesday,
categorically rejecting international demands for Tehran to return to a
suspension of sensitive uranium enrichment work. Iran's uranium enrichment
programme is at the centre of fears the regime could acquire nuclear weapons.
The country insists it only wants to produce civilian reactor fuel.
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 051706
The geomagnetic field is expected to be quiet to unsettled on 17 May. On 18 and 19 May, geomagnetic activity is expected to be quiet to unsettled due to a coronal hole high speed stream moving into geoeffective position.
Setting the Right Standards for the Expanding Sustainable-Certification Market
Not long ago, sustainable certification was mostly a phenomenon of hard-to-find "green" and or "ethical" products that appealed to small market niche. Today, it's big business, the glamorous object of mass marketing and branding, with measurable percentage global market shares. But can mass salesmanship convey the sense of mission behind it?
Six European gas companies confirm EC competition raids
Company spokesmen for Gaz de France, Germany's E.ON Ruhrgas and RWE,
Belgium's Distrigas and Fluxys and Austria's OMV Gas all confirmed Wednesday
that their companies were being investigated by staff from the competition
department of the European Commission, as part of its ongoing inquiry into
competition in the energy sector.
Soaring aluminium raises prospect of magnesium substitution-- MIL
The narrowing price gap between aluminium and magnesium as aluminium prices hit multi-year highs is set to encourage substitution of magnesium for aluminium in some automotive applications.
Solar Start-Up Wins Clean Energy Competition
Energy entrepreneurs convinced a panel of industry leaders and venture capitalist judges that their businesses can make clean energy competitive with conventional energy to win the Finals of the 2006 Ignite Clean Energy Business Presentation Competition.
UK politicians face tough choices on nuclear power
UK politicians will have to take some tough decisions on whether to build new nuclear power stations, if the country is to avoid becoming totally dependent on gas imports, Prime Minister Tony Blair told the British Parliament Wednesday.
US aluminum can recycling rate up to 52% in 2005 from 51.2%
The US recycled 51.4 billion aluminum cans in 2005, equaling about 1.51 billion lb of aluminum, out of a total number of 98.9 billion cans shipped.
US Lawmakers Fret Over Yucca Waste Dump Delays
A key GOP lawmaker warned Tuesday that the opening of a nuclear waste dump in the Nevada desert that is already 10 years behind schedule may be further delayed because the US government has no plans to recycle waste from 103 nuclear power plants.
With the month of June only 2 weeks away, the weather this Spring has both reinforced and refined this outlook. To help you better prepare for the weather this Summer as a whole.
US won't use Yucca Mountain to store unrecycled waste-- Domenici
The United States will not store unrecycled spent nuclear fuel at the proposed Yucca Mountain, Nevada, repository and must instead work to develop recycling and interim storage plans, Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Chairman Pete Domenici said Tuesday.
USDA DESIGNATES COUNTIES IN ARIZONA AS NATURAL DISASTER AREAS
The U.S. Department of Agriculture designated all counties in Arizona, except La Paz County, as primary natural disaster areas due to drought that occurred from Jan. 1, 2006, and continuing, making all qualified farm operators in the designated areas eligible for low-interest emergency
What's Moving the Oil Markets 051706
•IPE Brent futures in London firmed in thin trading ahead
of the US stock data report expected to show a draw in commercial crude stocks
later Wednesday. "The rise this morning is a slight continuation from Tuesday's
session with market anticipating a draw in crude stocks," a trader said.
•Fear over inflation and high commodity prices; impact on economic growth and
crude oil demand sparked a retreat in the price of global commodities.
•Market players see little activity occurring, as there is no fresh news, until
the US Energy Information Agency and the American Petroleum Institute release
their weekly stock data at 1530 London time. "It's very quiet this morning. Most
people are waiting around for the US data to come out and on top of that it's a
bank holiday in Norway so there are fewer North Sea players," a London-based
broker said.
May 16, 2006
$70 Million in Grants Brings Blighted Property Back to Life
Communities in 44 states and two territories, as well as three tribes will share $69.9 million in grants to help transform community eyesores into community gems. The grants, from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, promote the redevelopment of abandoned and contaminated or potentially contaminated waste sites. In all, 209 applicants were selected to receive 292 grants for assessment or cleanup of properties.
Arabs to invest $220 billion in energy projects 2006-2010-- report
Arab oil producing states invested some $39 billion in energy projects in 2005 and will need to invest a cumulative $220 billion in the next five years, a 26% increase over an original forecast as a result of an upsurge in project activity,
Areva Urges Government to Give Go Ahead for Nuclear Reactors
Areva, the state-owned French nuclear reactor company, will add its voice to calls for a new generation of nuclear power stations in Britain today, arguing that they could be built without any government subsidy.
Bad Vibes Cause Shutdown Of Ameren Nuke Plant
Ameren Corp. has taken its Callaway nuclear facility off line after plant workers detected high level's of vibration in its turbines. The plant's turbines, which generate electricity, are separate from its reactor.
Canada Defends U.N. Climate Role, Overshoots Kyoto
Canada defended its leadership of U.N. talks on fighting global warming on Monday despite admitting that Ottawa will not meet its own goals under the Kyoto Protocol.
Children in East Africa Risk Death From Drought - UN
Rainfall has come too late to reverse the devastation from a six-month drought in East Africa, where thousands of weakened children could die without immediate assistance, the United Nations said on Monday.
China's largest nuclear generator joins power grid
The trial launch of the No.1 generator of Tianwan Nuclear Station in Lianyungang City, east China's Jiangsu Province, marked the success of the largest cooperation project between China and Russia.
Death Toll From Pakistan Heatwave Crosses 50
A heatwave has killed at least 50 people in Pakistan since the start of May, prompting authorities to warn people to stay out of the midday sun as temperatures cross 50 Celsius (122 Fahrenheit) in the shade.
Despite seasonal shift, heating oil remains strong
With intense scrutiny being given to every tick in the gasoline market, little mention has been made of the rather meteoric rise in heating oil futures despite its lack of seasonality.
Emerging clout of pipeline politics Oil used as reward and punishment
As energy-rich countries feel empowered by high oil prices, they are increasingly using a blunt instrument to make their influence felt. Call it the power of the pipeline.
New, superlong pipelines are planned for South America, the Middle East, Russia and Africa, and oil-producing countries are using them to forge political alliances, punish foes and extract concessions from customers.
EPA's Green Vehicle Guide some early-introduction 2007 models that are now available for sale
What's New -- Early 2007 Models Now Posted! Use this guide to choose the cleanest and most fuel-efficient vehicle that meets your needs. Low emissions and good fuel economy are both important for the environment.Ethanol may fuel growth in state
During the mid-1990s, Minnesota became one of the earliest states to create markets and incentives for farmers to invest in ethanol facilities. Twelve of 13 ethanol plants are owned by farmers, and collectively the plants generate $165 million a year. "That means farmers don't just end up supplying the corn."
Glaciers in Africa Expected to Disappear
Mountain glaciers in equatorial Africa are on their way to disappearing within two decades, a team of British researchers reports. The glaciers will be gone within 20 years if current warming continues.
Gold lower in early London trade, may see short-term weakness
Gold was marked lower in early London trade Tuesday as the market's weakness continued following the previous day's sharp sell-off, but analysts remained positive over the market's longer-term prospects. Spot bullion was indicated at $677.00-679.00/oz at 0815 GMT.
Grass pellets show potential as an alternative heating fuel
Grass could be an effective alternative fuel source to heat north country homes. While the concept is in its infancy, pelletizing grass for use as an energy source is environmentally friendly and economical.
Hong Kong Checks Reports of 30,000 China Chicken Deaths
Authorities have been on the lookout for outbreaks of the H5N1 bird flu virus on farms, which experts fear may evolve into a form passed easily from human to human and trigger a pandemic, killing millions of people. That eggs may be contaminated is especially worrying for Hong Kong. Unlike imports of live chickens or pork from China, which need to originate from approved farms, there is no such requirement for eggs, though they are randomly tested in China.
"Terrorists like garbage on the streets." Those chilling words were uttered recently by a city official in Baghdad (where else?), in a Reuters story about the explosive perils faced by street cleaners and other municipal workers in Iraq´s capital.
IPE Brent futures edge higher as funds move out of long positions
IPE Brent futures in London traded higher early Tuesday as funds moving out of long positions slowed following the $3.76/barrel collapse on Friday and Monday amid a broad-based selloff. Fear over inflation and high commodity prices; impact on economic growth and crude oil demand sparked a retreat in the price of global commodities.
New England Hit by Worst Floods in 70 Years
The worst flooding in 70 years in Massachusetts, Maine and New Hampshire forced thousands of people from their homes on Monday after the heaviest rainfall in a decade.
Nuclear plant decisions on hold for poll Energy issue must wait for 2007 election
SCOTLAND--ROSS Finnie, the environment minister, has postponed any decision on new nuclear power plants until after next year's election, while warning there is a need to tackle the "great luxury of a greedy energy policy".
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 051606
Solar activity is expected to continue at very low levels. The geomagnetic field is expected to be mostly quiet on 16 and 17 May. On 18 May, quiet to active conditions are expected due to a coronal hole high speed stream moving into geoeffective position.
Stretch of Upper Miss. River reopens after barge accident
A 24-mile section of the Mississippi River near Thebes, Illinois, was closed for several days last week after a barge struck a railroad bridge. Twenty-two of the barges broke away, drifting down river.
Supreme Court to Decide When Best Pollution Controls Required
The Supreme Court agreed Monday to decide how tough the U.S. government can be on 17,000 industrial plants and when it can force improvements in unhealthy air breathed by 160 million Americans.
Supreme Court to review Duke Energy Clean Air Act ruling
The decision is considered a setback for the power sector and the Bush administration, both of which had urged the high court not to take the case. The outcome of the case likely will have major policy and economic implications for power companies across the country.
Three Major Hurricanes to Hit US This Year - Accuweather
Three major hurricanes will strike the United States this year, with the storm-battered Gulf Coast most at risk in June and July, forecaster AccuWeather predicted Monday.
UK government urges planners to consider need for gas storage
UK Trade and Industry Secretary Alistair Darling has put before parliament a "statement of need" urging the construction of new natural gas storage facilities to help the UK meet peak winter demand, the government said Tuesday.
UK Government-- Wicks predicts strong future for fuel cells
"Cars, homes, laptops and mobile phones, could all in future be powered by revolutionary fuel cells, and investors in this sector today are getting ahead of tomorrow's game", is the message from Energy Minister Malcolm Wicks today as he underlines the exciting opportunities in the sector for the financial community at a specially convened DTI conference in London.
UK Organic Farms Seen Protecting Jobs, Bird Life
Organic farming can help reverse a sharp decline in Britain's agricultural workforce, creating on average 32 percent more jobs than conventional farming, according to a study issued by the Soil Association on Monday.
UK, Germany Seek Cuts to Lax EU Pollution Quotas
Uncertainty clouded Europe's flagship strategy to cut greenhouse gas emissions on Monday, after a hectic day which should have delivered clarity on where the 25-nation bloc stands in its fight against climate change.
US Shows Interest in Post-2012 Climate Plan - EU
The United States has shown interest in planning beyond 2012 to reduce emissions of heat-trapping gases that are believed to be causing global warming, the European Commission said on Monday.
US Denies Post-2012 Emissions Discussion With EU
The United States on Monday denied it had discussed with the European Commission plans to curb greenhouse gas emissions after the Kyoto Protocol runs out on 2012.
US uranium production up 18% in 2005
US uranium production increased to 2.7 million pounds U3O8 in 2005, an 18%
increase over the 2.3 million lb produced in 2004, according to data collected
by DOE's Energy Information Administration. EIA also noted that employment in
the uranium production industry increased by 52% in 2005
What's Moving the Oil Markets 051606
•IPE Brent futures in London traded higher early Tuesday as funds moving out of long positions slowed following the $3.76/barrel collapse on Friday and Monday amid a broad-based selloff.
•Fear over inflation and high commodity prices; impact on economic
growth and crude oil demand sparked a retreat in the price of global
commodities.
•Concerns over economic growth was the main factor causing the recent
collapse in oil prices.
May 15, 2006
190 Nations Seek to Bridge Policy Gaps on Climate
About 190 nations meet in Germany next week to try to bridge vast policy gaps between the United States and its main allies over how to combat climate change amid growing evidence that the world is warming.
Alaska Gets Its First Artificial Reef
Fifty feet down in the cold waters of Smitty's Cove, a concrete paradise is being built for some of Alaska's most unusual creatures. It took less than 24 hours before some of them started checking out the new real estate -- the state's first artificial reef.
APS says Palo Verde nuke 3 back by Fri evening
Palo Verde nuclear unit 3 in Arizona is expected to be connected to the regional power grid by Friday evening, an Arizona Public Service spokesman said on Friday afternoon.
Arizona regulators fear SoCal Ed power line will raise prices
Arizona regulators are raising concerns that a proposed transmission line between Southern California and the Palo Verde hub in Arizona will raise power prices in their state. Two ACC commissioners, however, are concerned that allowing the capacity to go the California will raise prices in Arizona.
Atco mulls building power line to U.S.
CALGARY—Power generator Atco Ltd. is looking to build a north-south electrical transmission corridor along the eastern edge of Alberta that could be expanded to provide service to the United States, CEO Nancy Southern said yesterday.
Canada Suggests Softening Second Phase of Kyoto
Canada's new Conservative government, which says the Kyoto protocol is too onerous, is suggesting the accord be softened and wants Canada to be given a break because it is a major energy producer.
Climate Change May Kill Millions in Africa - Report
Disease spread by global warming could kill an extra 185 million people in sub-Saharan Africa by the end of the century and turn millions more into refugees unless rich nations take action now, a report said on Monday.Despite state funding, fuel cell technology running on fumes
Hoping to nudge Ohio's slow-moving fuel cell industry to life, the state began the Ohio Fuel Cell Initiative in 2002. It has since provided about $50 million for various fuel cell projects and to companies. Industry watchers say it is possible for Ohio to become a major force in fuel cell manufacturing, but the return on the state's investment probably will take decades.EC member state emissions data for 2005
Below is a table outlining EU member states' verified emissions for 2005, aggregated from individual plant data that appears on the European Commission's Community Independent Transaction Log.
Entergy believes strontium-90 leaks tied to Indian Point-1
Entergy believes it has "clearly tied" strontium-90 leaks to the Indian Point-1 spent fuel pool, company spokesman Jim Steets said yesterday. He called the development "positive" because Entergy is "well along" in its efforts to remove the spent fuel and water from the pool.
EPA and NOAA Ask-- Are You Air Aware?
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration are reminding people across the country about the health impact of air quality in their communities as part of national Air Quality Awareness Week, May 15-19. Both agencies are urging Americans to check air quality forecasts to protect their health.
Ethanol, Biodiesel Eats Into US Corn Stockpiles
The booming ethanol industry will consume 20 percent of this year's US corn crop, the government forecast on Friday, and soy-based biodiesel also is taking off.
EU C02 Emissions Below Quota, Carbon Price Falls
The European Union's 2005 carbon dioxide emissions fell far short of a limit set by the bloc's pollution trading scheme, sending carbon prices to a one-year low on Friday.
Fire at Wynnewood refinery in Oklahoma now only minor-- company
"The alkylation unit will be out of operation for an undetermined time period," Wynnewood said. "All other refinery units continue to operate at reduced volumes."
Have You Reduced Your Dependence on Cars?
We all know that our car-based society* is not sustainable (not to mention dehumanizing). Smaller, lighter cars and hybrids can help us reduce the amount of energy used per kilometer/mile driven and and cut down on air pollution and smog, but these are not a solution in themselves, just a small band-aid on a pretty big wound. A larger systemic change has to take place at both ends
High purity hydrogen generators
The generators are said to eliminate the need for the storage and handling of high-pressure cylinders by continuously generating gas at the place of use from de-ionised water and electricity.
House says Defense Dept. must gauge contamination at closed sites
The House of Representatives has approved a proposal to require that the Defense Department study perchlorate contamination at formerly used defense sites, which the military refers to as FUDS.
How China can use energy economically
The national energy leading group chaired by Premier Wen Jiabao recently declared that "marketization is the most important element of energy policy." This highlights the purpose of the consumption law and the price increase, which is to make China use energy more efficiently to become a stronger and more secure global competitor, perhaps even using resources better than the United States has.
A novel process for squeezing hydrogen out of biomass could mean a cheaper and easier way to make hydrogen for fuel cells. A small company in Madison, WI has developed a novel way to generate hydrogen cheaply and cleanly from biomass.Hydrogen fuel cells become faster and greener with new catalyst
Hydrogen fuel cells powered by methanol are a promising option for reducing the nation’s nearly 200 billion-gallon-per-year gasoline habit. But, making the technology a reality requires catalysts that speed up the chemical reactions while working under everyday conditions.
Hydrogen is a fine fuel, but tough to get
Any politician who talks about cars running on hydrogen, without mentioning that we don't happen to have any hydrogen, should be beaten with sticks.
Wouldn't it be nice to have a machine that could cheaply manufacture a gallon of gas per hour for your automobile? Envisioning the day when we may all have fuel cell cars, General Electric researchers have built a prototype that makes the equivalent quantity of hydrogen: plug it in, and it splits water molecules to generate one kilogram per hour of hydrogen.
Iceland harnesses green energy for heat, power
Imagine an entire nation dependent on something other than oil for its energy. It's cheap. There's plenty of it. And it means never worrying about instability half a world away.
IEA Cuts Global Demand Forecast
Oil fell a dollar on Friday after the International Energy Agency (IEA) cut its global oil demand forecast and said high prices were curbing consumption. U.S. light crude was $1.02 lower at $72.30 a barrel while London Brent crude lost 87 cents to $72.56.
International Power helped further into the black by coal
RISING energy costs have put coal back on the agenda at International Power (IP), which is using the out-of-favour fuel to make big profits at one of the UK's largest power plants.
IPE Brent futures fall as global commodities come under pressure
IPE Brent futures in London continue to fall in trading on Monday as global commodities come under pressure with inflation fears due to the weak dollar and uncertainty over the direction of interest rates pushing crude prices downwards, brokers said. There has been a rush to sell commodities as traders worry over the health of the global economy.
Iranian official upbeat on atomic energy cooperation with Russia
Today, the head of Rosatom [Federal Agency for Atomic Energy], Sergey Kiriyenko, and an Iranian delegation in Moscow discussed the completion of the construction of the nuclear power plant [NPP] in Bushehr. The first generating set of the NPP, which is being built by Russian experts, is already 90-per-cent ready.
Global trade in liquefied natural gas (LNG) grew by 7.8% in 2005 compared with the previous year, with Spain, France and India among the fastest growing markets, and Qatar and Australia showing the largest increases in sales
No Weather Relief for Drought and Flood-Hit China
Drought and floods in China are threatening millions of people in cities and on farms and the weather outlook offers little prospect of relief, state media reported on Friday.
Ohio waste authority receives OK to build landfill methanol plant
An Ohio solid waste agency has gotten its final air permit for a proposed facility that will produce methanol and compressed natural gas from its landfill.
Oil prices would go over $100 barrel if US attacked Iran- Chavez
World oil prices would rise to over $100/barrel in the event of any US
strike against Iran as a result of the escalating tension over Tehran's
nuclear program, Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez said Monday.
Poor Nations to Tell Rich to Do More on Climate
Developing nations will urge rich countries to show more leadership in combating global warming at talks of almost 190 states in Bonn from Monday that will underscore deep rifts on climate policies.
The Sierra Club, a national conservation organization, is lending its muscle to a lawsuit aimed at forcing Peabody Energy to use cleaner technology at its proposed Thoroughbred power plant near Central City, Ky., about 60 miles southeast of Evansville.
Reclaimed surface mine chosen as site for Va. clean-coal plant
A reclaimed surface mine in Wise County, Virginia, is the site of a proposed clean-coal power plant that could have as much as 600 MW of generating capacity. The plant, which has been discussed for years, will be built by a consortium of power companies, cooperatives and economic development agencies.
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 051506
Solar activity was very low. Region 880 (S08W70) is the only region on the visible disk with spots. The geomagnetic field is expected to be quiet to unsettled.
To get to the cutting edge of alternative energy in New Jersey, travel a two-lane mountain road, turn left at a cluster of old-fashioned mailboxes, amble across a wooden bridge and snake up a gravel driveway.
Russian power grid, Tajik company seek to boost pace of energy project
Some of the contractors are lagging behind the construction timescale by two months. Nearly 40 per cent of the construction work has been accomplished so far.
S.C. leads hydrogen economy charge
It might seem an odd position for a state some still consider part of the nation’s backwater, but South Carolina is leading the charge into the hydrogen economy. Much of the credit goes to two of the state’s congressional leaders: U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham and U.S. Rep. Bob Inglis.Saudi Arabia's Naimi says oil supply currently 'ahead of demand'
Rather than a lack of supply, current high oil prices were being caused by strong economic growth, Naimi said. Naimi declined to comment specifically on whether or not the high prices were eroding demand, noting only that "in general when prices are high people check their pockets and when price are low they open their pockets."
While no commercial plants are currently on line, those in the business of converting coal into gas say that the reality of using the fuel source to motor cars, trucks and planes is just around the corner. It's a costly venture and the primary uncertainty is whether the price of oil will stay in the $60-$70 a barrel range.
US senator presses State Department to take stronger energy role
"I want to ensure that they and other ambassadors have the support and institutional expertise necessary to effectively deal with energy issues," said Lugar, according to a copy of his statements provided to Platts.
Venezuelan PDVSA joins European, Asian companies in Cuba oil hunt
the hunt for oil in Cuba that has already attracted companies from Canada, Europe, China and India, the government in Havana said at the weekend.
What Price Nature-- Bogs $6,000, Reefs $10,000
The estimates from United Nations-backed studies are part of a fledgling bid to put a price on nature's bounties, from the production of crops, fish or timber to clean water supplies or the prevention of erosion.
What's Moving the Oil Markets 051506
IPE Brent futures in London continue to fall in trading on Monday as global commodities come under pressure with inflation fears due to the weak dollar and uncertainty over the direction of interest rates pushing crude prices downwards, brokers said. There has been a rush to sell commodities as traders worry over the health of the global economy.
IEA released a report on Friday saying it now expected global oil demand to rise by just 1.25 million b/d this year rather than the 1.47 million b/d it had forecast in its previous report.
White House backs ´good Samaritan´ mine cleanup bill
The Good Samaritan Clean Watershed Act aims to lower legal roadblocks to cleaning up more than 500,000 abandoned mines across the country. It would remove potential liability for volunteer organizations willing to restore watersheds affected by acid drainage from the mines.
May 12, 2006
$70 Million in Grants Brings Blighted Property Back to Life
Communities in 44 states and two territories, as well as three tribes will share $69.9 million in grants to help transform community eyesores into community gems. The grants, from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, promote the redevelopment of abandoned and contaminated or potentially contaminated waste sites.
Africa's Energy Draws Attention
Sub-Saharan Africa is looking up. High energy prices are the reason, which has helped the lower part of the continent reach 5.8 percent economic growth this year -- more than in the last three years. Africa's richness benefits the rest of the world.
Australia PM Says Will Not Sell Uranium to India
Prime Minister John Howard said on Thursday Australia would stick to its policy of banning uranium sales to India but he would seek more details on a US-India nuclear deal when he visits Washington this week.
During the 2003 blackout, hundreds of highrise buildings, companies, hospitals and other organizations across Ontario kept the lights on by firing up their own emergency diesel generators.Bolivian President Will Not Compensate Foreign Oil Companies
Bolivian President Evo Morales said that foreign oil companies would be free to repatriate their earnings but will not be compensated for oil and gas resources that have been nationalized.
Bulgaria-- Nuclear plant director views technical cause for 1 March incident
According to preliminary information, the fundamental reason, due to which part of the control and protection system of Unit 5 was not activated, was the softer metal of the drives' surfaces. The N-plant and the system's chief designer will take measures to increase the hardness of the metal surface of these elements, so that the situation does not repeat.
Chile's ENAP seeking to exit Iran due to nuclear tensions-- CEO
Chilean state oil company ENAP is looking to exit its upstream operations in Iran due to growing geopolitical tensions over Tehran's nuclear ambitions, the company's CEO said Thursday.
Climate Change Evidence Stronger - Wbank Scientist
Global temperatures may be increasing more quickly than first thought, and evidence is stronger that humans are causing the rise, the World Bank's Chief Scientist Robert Watson told Reuters on Thursday.
Douglas says he'll sign energy bill
Gov. James Douglas says he is likely to sign a bill designed to promote energy independence and prepare Vermont for the possible loss of two-thirds of its power supplies in the next decade.
Energy crisis may recur, Moscow power company chief says
Moscow Unified Energy Company's General Director Alexander Remezov does not rule out the possibility of an energy crisis in Moscow similar to the one in May 2005. Though much is being done to prevent such a possibility, the power capacity deficit during the winter season revealed that there was still a chance the crisis might recur,
EU Extends Hydrogen Push After City Bus Success
A pilot programme has shown hydrogen-powered city buses work well without polluting the environment, the European Commission said on Thursday, extending its push to promote emission-free vehicles.
EV Rental Cars Adds to its Fleet of Hybrid Vehicles
EV Rental Cars, a rental car agency that exclusively offers hybrid vehicles, is rapidly building its fleet in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas, and Phoenix.
Evaluate the Opinion of Participants in the Energy Sector on Climate Change
Research and Markets has announced the addition of Climate Change and the Energy Sector to their offering. The energy sector faces the challenges of: security of supply; keeping markets open and competitive; and meeting CO2 emissions targets. What does the sector think of this?
FEMA Says It's Ready For Hurricanes, Experts Worry
With the Atlantic hurricane season three weeks away, US emergency officials battered by Hurricane Katrina say they are ready, but independent experts worry that problems - including unwieldy bureaucracy - remain.
"FutureGen will be a stepping stone toward a cleaner, more energy-secure future," said a written statement from U.S. Secretary of Energy Samuel Bodman.
German PV Market Increased by 53% in 2005, Solarbuzz Report Says
Germany strengthened its position as the leading national solar photovoltaic (PV) market in 2005 with growth of 53 percent to 837 Megawatts of newly installed capacity, according to the new German PV Market Report 2006.
Global Oil and Gas Companies' High Profits Continue
"The costs of developing new oil production are rising significantly, and the average size and life of new discoveries is shrinking," said Standard & Poor's credit analyst Andrew Watt. "Also, prices remain stubbornly high despite efforts by OPEC members--in particular, Saudi Arabia--to increase production, so we expect oil prices to remain above historical levels for the foreseeable future," said Mr. Watt.
Going for the Gold with Green Technology
Students from Appalachian State University drove from North Carolina to Washington, D.C., in a bus entirely powered by biodiesel fuel made from recycled cooking oil. University of Michigan at Ann Arbor students are "growing" materials for construction of buildings, both to use natural fibers and to encourage a new market for agriculture.
Gold clearing statistics gain in April-- LBMA
Ounces transferred rose by 82.8% and value more than doubled--the monthly average price for April 2005 was $180 lower. The number of transfers increased by 88.6%. Gold encountered little resistance on its way to the month high fixing of $644.50/oz.
House OKs bill that would ban LNG ships in Bay
The House yesterday passed a bill that would effectively prevent liquefied natural gas tankers from coming into Narragansett Bay. The bill would conflict with a plan to build an LNG terminal in Fall River.
House panel cuts funding for GNEP
DOE's Global Nuclear Energy Partnership (GNEP) program would receive a deep budget cut under a fiscal 2007 funding bill that a House Appropriations subcommittee approved today.
In Navajo country, a battle brews over proposed power plant
In every direction, there are glimpses of the beauty that makes up the country's largest American Indian reservation.
But this is also the center of a brewing battle over what would be one of the biggest economic development projects in Indian Country _ a $2.5 billion coal-fired power plant that would serve major cities in the Southwest.
IPE Brent falls as players look to reduce long positions
IPE Brent futures in London fell Friday after the International Energy Agency cut its estimate of 2006 oil demand growth and market players looked to reduce their long positions ahead of the weekend, traders said.
Kansas's Largest Wind Energy Farm Dedicated to Power on the Prairie
"The Elk River wind power plant represents a major step forward in the development of renewable energy in Kansas," said Raimund Grube, vice president of PPM WindPower. "The benefits of projects like Elk River are immense -- contributions to rural economies, jobs, and above all, clean, cost-competitive wind power."
Louisville residents suing power, chemical companies
Dozens of southwest Louisville residents have filed suit against local industrial plants, claiming pollution from the plants has made them prisoners in their own homes.
Mixed Mortgage Rates This Week, Unaffected by Fed Actions
Morales defends nationalization of energy sector at EU-Latin America summit
"We don't have to negotiate, dialogue or talk (with other countries) whenever it comes to a policy that involves a sovereign decision of state," Morales told reporters ahead of the summit talks.
Nigerian oil product pipeline fire kills around 100 people
"The pipeline caught fire early today while hundreds of villagers had gone there to scoop fuel from a leaking point in Lado Village near the Snake Island. At least 100 people died from the inferno," said one eyewitness.
Ontario's energy minister says she doesn't expect power crisis this summer
Ontario's energy minister says she doesn't expect an electricity crisis this summer, but there are still major concerns about power supply going into next year.
OPEC crude output rises to 30.04 million bd in April-- IEA
On the supply side, the IEA estimated world oil supply at 85.1 million b/d in April, up 485,000 b/d from April. Output increases of 100,000 b/d or more came from OPEC, the FSU, Africa and North America, partly offset by lower North Sea volumes.
Platinum soars to new heights, challenges $1,300 oz
Platinum has reached a new all-time high on the NYMEX Thursday morning and traders are apparently pushing hard to reach another major psychological level -- the $1,300/oz mark.
"If for some reason prices do go up later today, I think that
it can't really go beyond the $74 mark as players will, as yesterday, sell out
their longs because there's no reason for prices to be up there. If there was a
rally I'd be a seller of it."
- One London trader
speculating on how IPE Brent futures will perform on Friday.
"As long as the Iranians have a sense that they are
negotiating with the Europeans ad referendum (needing referral for a final
decision), and what they discuss with them will have to be discussed with the
Americans, and then come back again to them, I am not sure they will put
everything on the table."
- UN Secretary General
Kofi Annan.
Renewables not coal is way to go
If the transmission line is built, New Zealand can continue to rely on renewable energy in preference to coal or natural gas for some years to come for its electricity supplies.
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 051206
Region 882 remains the most magnetically complex sunspot group on the visible desk but has exhibited no growth or activity. The geomagnetic field has been unsettled to active. The large recurrent coronal hole high speed stream has rotated into a geoeffective position. Consequently, the solar wind speed increased to approximately 600 km/s.
Residents Determined to Keep Power Plant Out
It's a fight over the price of progress and development. Residents in Rutherford and Williamson Counties are ready to fight the Tennessee Valley Authority. If approved, a 60-acre substation will sit on top of the Silverman's dream home, and the transmission lines will extend across the entire area.
Russia to build power plant for Serbs
Russian state-owned company Technopromexport has announced it will build a thermal power plant in Serbia within three years. The company also plans to win a $500 million tender for the construction of a 1,900-megawatt power plant in India's North Karanpura.
Sow the wind, reap cleaner energy
The Yangtze River Delta has turned to wind power in its quest for cleaner energy, with Shanghai spearheading the drive.
Springerville, Ariz., coal-fired power plant plans move forward
The Salt River Project will go ahead with plans to build a new coal-fired power plant at Tucson Electric Power Co.'s Springerville Generating Station in Eastern Arizona.
Texas plans nation's largest offshore wind farm
The nation's largest offshore wind farm will be built off the Padre Island seashore in South Texas, a critical migratory bird flyway, Texas land commissioner Jerry Patterson said Thursday.
Patterson lauded what he said would be an 40,000-acre span of turbines about 400 feet tall able to generate energy to power 125,000 homes.
Texas Sizzles Before Summer, Yet Again
In one of the latest rounds of pre-Season heat (that commenced on March 1st), Corpus Christi hit 103°F yesterday while Loredo TX hit 112°F. By May 10th, this was already the 8th day that Corpus Christi has broken 90°F (while they normally only do so 6 times the entire month), and typically break 100°F in May on one day every 10 years!
Tidal energy project eyed for river
The project is in the very early stages of development and would utilize emerging technology to tap tidal currents in the Penobscot River to generate power, according to Charles Cooper of TRC Environmental Corp. of Lowell, Mass., the environmental consultant for the project.
Tokyo Electric's April fuel consumption falls 43.3% from March
Japan is in the middle of its off-demand season for power generation, which usually lasts between March and June.
Turkey aims for pivotal role as a secure transit corridor
With energy security currently at the top of the political agendas of most European countries, Turkey has spotted the opportunity to take a pivotal role as a secure transit corridor for oil and gas supplies. Some 72% of the world's oil reserves and 73% of its gas reserves are in areas that surround Turkey.
UN chief calls for revolution in energy efficiency
UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan on Wednesday called for new approaches to energy use with a focus on greater efficiency, increased investment in renewable sources and new technologies.
US bill raising oil company taxes passes Senate, on way to Bush
Legislation that slashes US taxpayers' obligations by $70 billion, but that ups the taxes of some of the largest oil companies, passed the US Senate last night and is on the way to the White House for President Bush's signature.
US oil refiners tell Congress not fixing fuel cost
U.S. oil refiners are not conspiring to keep gasoline prices high and are not overcharging consumers for motor fuel, the industry's trade group told Congress on Thursday.
What's Moving the Oil Markets 051206
IPE Brent futures in London fell Friday after the International Energy Agency cut its estimate of 2006 oil demand growth and market players looked to reduce their long positions ahead of the weekend, traders said.
On a longer term note, there have been reports suggesting that some funds expect the price of crude futures to halve by this time next year.
World Bank 'Flooded' with Ethanol Fund Requests
The World Bank's private sector arm is being deluged with funding requests for ethanol projects around the globe as crude oil prices trade near record highs, an International Finance Corp. official said Thursday.
World oil output rises to 85.1 million b/d in April-- IEA
he International Energy Agency Friday cut its estimate for world oil demand growth this year, saying mild weather and high prices were weighing on demand in the most important consuming regions.
May 11, 2006
Air quality rules make IGCC attractive to some, but costs deter
While some in the power industry cite emissions regulations and government incentives as the impetus to build integrated gasification combined-cycle power plants, others point to costs and uncertainty as reasons not to build them.
Beneficial Uses of Carbon Dioxide
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is getting a bad image because man-made emissions are suspected of contributing to rising global temperatures. But CO2 has many unique properties which are being used to improve industrial processes such as extracting oil. Squeezing Out Oil
Canada's Greenhouse Gas Emissions Far Above Target
Canada's emissions of greenhouse gases are now 35 percent above the level it promised to reach under the Kyoto climate change accord and the country would have to ground every train, plane and car to meet its target, Environment Minister Rona Ambrose said on Wednesday.
Carbon Market Grows 10 Fold, Needs Openness – World Bank
The global carbon emissions market reached a value of US$11 billion in 2005 on the back of Europe's pioneering trading scheme but it needs to be more transparent, the World Bank said on Wednesday.
China Expecting Hot and Stormy Summer - Report
China's summer could be hotter and stormier than normal and the country could be hit up to nine typhoons from June, state media said on Wednesday, citing the country's top meteorologists.
China, India are Fast-Growing Polluters - World Bank
Greenhouse gas pollution from China and India rose steeply over the last decade, but rich countries, including the United States, remain the world's biggest polluters, a World Bank official said on Wednesday.
Climate Killed Off Mammoths, Not Humans - Scientist
Climate shifts were probably responsible for the extinction of the mammoth and other species more than 10,000 years ago, not over-hunting by humans, according to new research published on Wednesday.
Crop Shortages Could Curb European Biofuel Growth
Shortages of suitable nationally grown crops could slow European moves to replace contaminating transport fuel with clean-burning, plant-based alternatives, industry sources said at a conference on Wednesday.
Crude surges back past $73 despite US stock builds
Benchmark crude prices surged to over $73/barrel in London and New York Thursday as supply fears and refinery glitches overshadowed evidence of growing stockpiles in the US.
Energy UK Coal threatens to close five pits
THE much-hyped renaissance of the British coal industry could be about to come to a shuddering halt unless power companies pay more for their fuel, UK Coal has warned.
EU Biodiesel Output Seen Growing 20 % a Year
European Union output of biodiesel, a clean oilseed-based renewable fuel, will grow by at least 20 percent a year and will largely be made from rapeseed, the CEO of France's leading producer Diester Industrie said late on Tuesday.
Floating wind farms placed far offshore could lead to affordable electricity -- without cluttering the view.
Global CO2 emissions rose 15% from 1992 to 2002
Carbon dioxide emissions increased by 15 percent between 1992 and 2002, topping 24 billion metric tons, according to a new report by the World Bank.
The FBI´s probe of the solid waste industry in Connecticut keeps getting more and more innarestin´. Plus a quick tour of recent industry headlines.
IPE Brent climbs on US refinery problems, offsets bearish US data
IPE Brent futures in London extended gains Thursday led by US refinery glitches that offset bearish US gasoline stock data, traders said. IPE Brent futures contract traded at $72.92/barrel, up 48 cents/barrel from Wednesday's close.
Ireland to double level of green power by 2010
A new initiative by the government of Ireland will support construction of 400 MW of new green power capacity that will displace the emission of 1 Mt of greenhouse gases each year.
Building hybrid cars is missing the point, says this year's Donner Prize winner. Global warming is killing the planet, and only clean energy systems can save us
Kyoto Gives Poor Countries US$2.7 Billion Boost
Rich nations' funding of clean energy projects in developing countries reached US$2.7 billion in 2005, through deals allowed under the global Kyoto treaty to tackle climate change, the World Bank said on Wednesday.
MIT wants to be more involved in renewables
The Massachusetts Institute of Technology says there is need for a broad initiative that provides basic science that may underpin a major transformation of the global energy system in several decades to solar, biofuel, wind, geothermal and wave energy.
New Coal Technology Could Help Climate - US Expert
A Norwegian firm's technology for cheaply removing greenhouse gas emissions from coal-fired power plants is likely to appeal to countries from China to the United States, a Massachusetts Institute of Technology professor said on Wednesday.
Ontario joins new source review lawsuit against Cinergy
Ontario, saying its air quality is being degraded by emissions from coal-fired power plants in the Midwest US, has joined the US government's legal battle against Cinergy -- now a part of Duke Energy -- for alleged violations of the Clean Air Act's new-source review requirements.
Putin ties Russia's competitiveness to energy efficiency
"We have an opportunity in the modern situation of today to evaluate, in a more sober fashion and calmly, the threats that Russia is coming up against as part of the world system, threats that present a danger to internal development and the international interests of our country. We can also talk in greater detail about our place in the world economy.
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 051106
Solar activity was very low. Region 882 (S12W70) showed no change this period, and produced no significant activity. The geomagnetic field is expected to range from quiet to major storm levels. A recurrent coronal hole is rotating into a geoeffective position. Expect active to minor storm periods on 11 and 12 May.
Spanish state defiant on EC legal action against regulator power
The Spanish government is unfazed by the legal action launched by the European Commission over Spain's decision to expand the powers of national energy regulator CNE in response to the takeover bid of domestic utility Endesa by Germany's E.ON, the government said Wednesday.
Technology is advancing rapidly. Many alternative-fuel vehicles are beginning to feel and drive like gasoline-powered models
Of course, one of the things holding back production of hydrogen-fuelled vehicles is the lack of a fuel supply infrastructure, but this will change.
U.S. budget cuts could stall development of 30,000 MW of geothermal
Geothermal could supply 30,000 MW of U.S. electricity by 2025, but proposals to close federal research programs would cut this figure in half, warns the industry trade association.
UK Government-- Darling backs renewables
"The Government wants 10% of our electricity to come from renewable sources by 2010 and this project will be making a considerable contribution to that target." The wind farm will also deliver important environmental benefits, including the potential to reduce emissions to the atmosphere by fossil fuel power stations.
UK starts major study on marine renewable energy
A Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) has been commissioned to examine the environmental effects of using tidal and wave power to generate power, with the first stage to include a consultation about the scope of the project. The study will be fundamental to the development of Scotland's renewable energy industry and likely will inform national policy, say officials.
Ukraine can provide all its energy from renewables and efficiency
The potential for wind power in Ukraine is 70 million MWh per year, and the country could be completely self sufficient in electricity generation through the use of renewable energy sources and increased energy efficiency.
US House Appropriations panel OKs OCS drilling ban elimination
The US House Appropriations Committee Wednesday voted 37 to 25 to lift moratoria that have prevented the government from offering natural gas leases in most of the Outer Continental Shelf for more than 20 years.
Vattenfall CEO calls for 'global price' on emissions trading
Swedish utility Vattenfall's President and CEO Lars G Josefsson called for a global price system on emissions trading Wednesday, in an initiative to reduce C02 emission levels worldwide. "We must do all we can to set the correct price on emissions and the pricing must be as global as possible. The only possible way to do this is to make use of market forces, i.e. a global system for emissions trading must develop," Josefsson said in his speech at the UN Commission on Sustainable Development in New York.
Venezuelan lawmakers give initial nod to oil tax reforms
Venezuelan lawmakers Wednesday gave initial approval to reforms of the Hydrocarbons Law that includes a 0.1% tax on oil exports as well as a new rate for royalties, the National Assembly said in a statement. Final approval is expected on Thursday.
Vermont citizens request a berm around Nuclear fuel storage facility
Entergy should be required to construct a berm around Vermont Yankee's proposed dry spent fuel storage facility, two groups argued today in a regulatory filing.
What's Moving the Oil Markets 051106
IPE Brent futures in London extended gains Thursday led by US refinery glitches that offset bearish US gasoline stock data, traders said.
World Bank doubles commitments to renewable energy and efficiency
The World Bank Group provided US$748 million in support for renewable energy and energy efficiency in the 2005 fiscal year (July 2004 to June 2005).
The commitment is 2.2 times higher than the FY2004 commitment of $339 million, and every dollar of WBG commitment for projects in renewables and efficiency leveraged $5 from private investors, governments, and other donors.
May 10, 2006
APS says Palo Verde nuke unit 3 restarts this week
The Arizona Public Service Palo Verde 1,247-megawatt nuclear power unit 3 in Arizona will restart after refueling in the next several days, near its schedule, an APS spokesman said on Monday.
Biomass efforts gaining ground
There's nothing new about the concept of biomass, using plant matter for energy. Gasification plants operated in Germany and the United States during World War II. But those plants were primitive compared to biomass efforts being researched todayCalifornia Butterfly Numbers Near 40-Year Low
The number of butterflies migrating through the state has fallen to a nearly 40-year low as populations already hurt by habitat loss and climate change encountered a cold, wet spring, researchers said.
China Witnesses Decline In Energy Consumption in Q1
China witnessed a decline of energy consumption in the first quarter of this year as some industries made progresses in saving energy and reducing energy consumption. Statistics shows that the comprehensive energy consumption per ton of steel produced by 71 large and medium-sized iron and steel enterprises declined 4.8 per cent in the first quarter of this year
Clean Energy Index Launched by Clean Edge and NASDAQ
"This index will bring much needed attention, focus and definition to a sector that is already playing a lead role in addressing the global energy crisis. It is fitting for NASDAQ and Clean Edge to offer this important index, as we promote innovation, forward thinking and high technology -- traits that characterize the companies in this new index."
Diesel manufacturers unveil new generation of clean-burning trucks
A group of diesel engine and truck manufacturers say they are ready to meet new, cleaner emissions standards starting in January.
First U.S. Voluntary Standard for Computers in Place
A new voluntary performance standard has been established to help large computer buyers make environmentally sound purchases. The standard has been established to help purchasers reduce the environmental impact of desktop and laptop computers and monitors they buy, use and discard.
Florida governor expected to sign broad energy legislation
Florida Governor Jeb Bush is expected to sign a sweeping energy bill that would, among other things, make it easier for the state's utilities to build new nuclear plants and establish a nine-member commission to develop both an energy plan and climate action plan.
House Chairman says Cape Wind provision to remain in bill
US House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Don Young said Tuesday that a controversial provision that could scuttle the nation's first offshore wind power project will remain in a massive bill to authorize US Coast Guard funding.
Hydro Dries Up, Sends Northwest Off Peak Power Soaring
Power prices for Wednesday delivery were on the substantial rise across the West Coast today. Markets in California and the Southwest were inspired to the upside by stronger demand projections and rising natural gas costs while Northwest markets leapt higher by the double-digits as hydropower supplies continue to ease.
Claims that incineration of waste produces green energy have been slammed in a new independent report published this week. The study, conducted for Friends of the Earth, finds that an average British ‘waste to energy’ incinerator creates around one third more greenhouse gases for the electricity they produce than gas-fired power stations. The research also predicts that the situation will get worse in the future, as the fossil-fuel content in waste increases.
Indonesia's Purnomo sees oil price of $58-$60barrel in 2007
Indonesian oil minister Purnomo Yusgiantoro said Wednesday he expected oil prices to fall to a level of $58-$60/barrel as fundamentals play a bigger role in determining price, which is currently being held aloft by the continuing row over Iran's nuclear program.
Is Wind Power a Legitimate Solution to High Energy Costs?
Commitment spins wind turbines, commitment in the form of cash. Conviction alone is not enough. No immediate profits exist, prospects for future profits motivate few people, and the cost has even the most sustainability-seeking zealots turning their backs on their coveted "green" lifestyles.Kozloduy-5 control rod incident rated INES Level 2
The incident, in which 21 of 61 control rods stuck in the
upper position as operators tried to restart the VVER-1000 after an outage,
was first identified as a basic Level 1 (anomaly) event by an NRA event
analysis commission, NRA Chairman Sergey Tzotchev said. This was because the
reactor protection system had successfully shut down the reactor and the
reactivity-control function was "more than adequate" to cope with any
design-basis accidents that might have occurred, he said.
New England lawmakers fight LNG plan
A Wyoming Republican is fighting a group of New England Democrats who want to halt a liquid natural gas project set for Massachusetts.
New York Warned to Prepare for Hurricanes
A hurricane with only moderate intensity could wreak havoc in New York City because it has been years since the nation's financial center faced severe weather, government forecasters warned Tuesday.
NREL, Xcel energy sign wind to hydrogen research agreement
Researchers will analyze and compare hydrogen production from wind power and the electric grid. The hydrogen will be produced through electrolysis -- the process of splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen using electricity.
A new independent report into the UK’s energy needs has claimed that climate change targets could be achieved without the use of nuclear power, WWF has reported. The study, titled ‘The Balance of Power’ by consultants ILEX, commissioned for WWF, finds that a combination of investment into renewables and a reduction of energy wastage could lower emissions by 55% on 1990 levels within the next 20 years.
Plants to monitor radioactive water
The nuclear industry took steps Tuesday to head off a growing public relations - if not health - problem, promising to closely monitor leaks of slightly radioactive water into groundwater at power plants.
Platinum prices soar to new heights, gold at 25-year high
Building on the sharp upswing Monday, platinum has soared to a new
all-time high on the NYMEX Tuesday during intra-day trading, but it
could lead to another record for the second day in a row. A bullish mood
has enveloped the entire precious metals complex, with gold, silver and
palladium storming back from their declining ways Monday to reach new
multi-year highs.
Prairie Island nuclear plant workers exposed to radiation
The accidental release of radioactive gas at the Prairie Island nuclear plant last week caused about 100 workers to be exposed to low levels of radiation, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission said.
Proposed Legislation Seeks Cleanup of Abandoned Mines
Teleconference about the Good Samaritan Clean Watershed Act, being introduced Wednesday, May 10, which aims to lower legal roadblocks to cleaning up more than half a million abandoned hardrock mines that litter the American landscape. The legislation would remove the potential liability for volunteer organizations willing to restore watersheds affected by acid drainage from the mines.
Quebec Unveils Energy Strategy Focusing on Construction of Dams
The Quebec government has unveiled a new energy strategy that involves the construction of dams and investment of up to $25 billion. Quebec's objective is to reach annual energy savings of $2.5 billion by the year 2015.
Renewable Energy Seen through the Lens of Social Science
"It turns out that a host of social and technical factors, rather than only technical issues, prevent the use of DG/renewable technologies. These socio-technical impediments include things like utility preferences, business practices, and consumer attitudes."
Renewable Energy Takes Center Stage in Nevada Politics
Dina Titus, one of the major contenders in the race for Governor in Nevada, has made support for renewable energy one of her strongest and most vocal positions. Some of her opponents say they're not far behind.
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 051006
Solar activity continues at very low levels. Region 882 (S12W58), the largest and most magnetically complex sunspot group on the visible disk, exhibited no new growth and no activity of note this period. The geomagnetic field is expected to range from quiet to major storm levels. Mostly quiet to unsettled conditions with isolated active periods are expected on 10 May as a large, recurrent coronal hole rotates into a geoeffective position.
Solar energy could heat up and ride the next big economic wave. Its rise can be attributed to an almost perfect storm that includes rising fossil fuel prices along with government directives that provide incentives. Costs, no doubt, still stand in the way. But, manufacturers are gearing up for new growth and lower priced technologies.
State a Model for Energy Conservation?
COULD California's environmental policies, forged during the energy crisis of the 1970s, be turned into a model for other states, maybe other countries? The federal government has not been providing leadership in cutting greenhouse gases.US' Archer Daniels Midland to build new ethanol plant in Iowa
Large US ethanol producer Archer Daniels Midland will build a dry corn milling plant with an annual capacity of 275 million gallons in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, as part of a two-step project to boost its output of the gasoline additive, the company said Wednesday.
US EIA sees 2006 natural gas demand falling below 2005 level
Total US gas consumption this year is expected to fall below last year's level by 1.1% before rebounding in 2007 by 3.4%, the US Energy Information Administration said Tuesday. "With weak electric heating load due to the warm January and much weaker expected cooling load this summer compared to 2005, the consumption of natural gas for generation of electricity is expected to fall by 2.8% in 2006, then increase by 2.3% in 2007,"
US Group to Make Power Conservation a Commodity
US companies and organizations that conserve electricity by switching to more efficient lighting or by moderating heating and cooling will earn a credit they can trade or bank.
US House energy chief sees ANWR law passage this summer
"I don't know how you can vote no," Barton told reporters before a hearing on gasoline prices. The senators who had previously voted against opening the coastal plain of ANWR "are paying $3/gal for their gasoline, and their constituents are too," he said.
US nuclear industry announces groundwater radiation initiative
The operators of all US nuclear power plants have agreed to a new "voluntary policy to enhance detection, management and communication about inadvertent radiological releases in groundwater," the Nuclear Energy Institute said Tuesday.
Watts in the wind- Breeze producing power for AEP-PSO
Atop Slick Hills, a rocky outcrop north of here, scores of wind turbines turned beneath an overcast sky. The acrobatic dance was being performed by Oklahoma's newest wind farm, known as Blue Canyon II. The 151.2-megawatt facility, which began commercial production in December.
What's Moving the Oil Markets 051006
IPE Brent futures in London were largely unchanged from their overnight settle as no fresh news left traders waiting for direction from US inventory stock data due out later Wednesday
Wildfires Trigger State of Emergency in Florida
Firefighters battled three major fires and nearly 20 smaller ones that are burning brush, grass and trees throughout the state. While rainstorms were moving across the parched state on Tuesday, Florida is typically very dry in May, raising the risk of wildfires until the summer afternoon downpours begin in June.
May 9, 2006
AES Sees Texas as 'Attractive' Wind Power Market
Texas "continues to look like an attractive market" for AES Corp., "as well as most people pursuing wind generation in the United States right now," a top official with AES told investors during a conference call following the release of the company's first quarter 2006 earnings results on Monday.
Alberta energy regulator guards against attacks on pipelines, oilsands, transmission networks
Alberta's pipelines, oilsands plants, transmission networks and energy processing facilities are increasingly attractive targets for terrorist attacks, says the province's top energy regulator.
Barre to consider 'micro-hydro' power facilities
The city plans to study the viability of generating electricity from water. "This is a classic example of Vermont ingenuity, harnessing the flow of water through water mains to generate electricity," O'Brien said.
BLM closes public comment period on nuclear waste site
It will take weeks for the Bureau of Land Management to sort through thousands of public comments before deciding whether to grant access across public land for a nuclear waste stockpile about 50 miles southwest of Salt Lake City.
BMW to use landfill methane to power S.C. paint shop
Not every car that BMW Manufacturing Co. paints will be the same color. But the company is touting its paint shop in Spartanburg, S.C., as being "green."
The current shortfall of technical professionals in the petroleum industry should create opportunities for formerly disadvantaged groups.
Dolphins, Like Humans, Recognize Names
Bottlenose dolphins can call each other by name when they whistle, making them the only animals besides humans known to recognize such identity information, scientists reported on Monday.
Drought Threatens Pakistan, Reservoirs Run Low
Reservoirs in Pakistan are drying up, temperatures are soaring and there is little chance of significant rain for at least the next few months, a top weather official said on Monday.
Environmental survey rates 42pct of U.S. streams in poor condition
Forty-two percent of the shallow-stream miles in the United States are in poor condition, and only 28 percent are in good condition, according to a survey released May 5 by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
EPA Still Looking at Easing Summer Gasoline Rules
Six US states, concerned about summer gasoline supplies, have asked federal officials about possible waivers from clean fuel rules, the head of the Environmental Protection Agency said Monday.
Federal Reserve and Inflation Targeting, First Do No Harm
Appreciating that consumer price inflation is a monetary phenomenon and that the lags between policy actions and the manifestation of consumer price inflation are long (and perhaps variable), there is a better way for the Fed to attain its goal of inflation containment without contributing to the amplitude of business cycles.
Global Market Booming for Organic Cotton Products, New Report Shows
Use of organically grown cotton by retail titans, fashion designers, and small and medium-size companies resulted in a dramatic growth in global retail sales of products containing organic cotton between 2001 and 2005
Group defends use of open loop vaporizers in LNG import terminals
The use of open loop -- also known as open rack -- vaporization systems for proposed LNG import terminals in the Gulf of Mexico, stressing that environmental impact statements from the US Coast Guard "conclude that offshore LNG facilities will have only minor adverse impacts on the environment, including fisheries."
High court to rule on citizens' suit against Rokkasho uranium plant
JAPAN-The Sendai High Court will hand down a ruling Tuesday on a suit citizens filed in 1989 seeking a revocation of government approval for a uranium enrichment plant in Rokkasho, Aomori Prefecture.
MMS outlines review of offshore renewable projects
The Minerals Management Service plans to conduct a comprehensive environmental study on the development of renewable energy projects on the Outer Continental Shelf, it said Friday.
N.Y. tidal power project will be a first for U.S.
A proposed tidal energy project to put six test turbines in New York City's East River cleared its final regulatory hurdle on April 28. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers gave Verdant Power permits to install turbines, which are expected to produce 200 kilowatts of power.
Naimi expects oil prices to hold firm for rest of decade
Saudi Arabian oil minister Ali Naimi said Tuesday he expected oil prices to hold firm for the rest of the decade due to continued strong demand growth and that the kingdom, currently holding spare capacity of 1.8 million b/d, was prepared to increase production if needed.
National Guidance Issued to Prepare Ships as Artificial Reefs
EPA and the Maritime Administration have jointly released guidance recommending environmental best management practices (BMPs) for cleaning ships that are to be sunk as artificial reefs.
Just in case we run out of natural coral reefs. (ed)
OPEC-10 output climbs 60,000 b/d to 28 mil b/d in April
Higher volumes from Iraq and Nigeria pushed total OPEC crude production in April back above 30 million b/d for the first time since November,
Pennsylvania Governor Rendell Announces $10 Million for Clean Energy Investments
Governor Edward G. Rendell today announced Pennsylvania will create jobs in the rapidly growing alternative energy industry and provide affordable, reliable energy for commonwealth businesses and residents by investing $10 million in new clean energy projects.
Polycrystalline Shortage Inspires Spire to Offer GaAs Solar Cells
Spire Corporation announced that Bandwidth Semiconductor LLC, its wholly owned subsidiary, now offers custom gallium arsenide (GaAs) concentrator solar cells for terrestrial applications.
Before you rebuild a ghost town, you have to tear it down. And you can't tear it down until you have a place to unload all the debris. New Orleans' post-storm predicament keeps getting stickier.
Radioactive water leaks from nuclear reactor in northern Japan
Water containing a small amount of radiation leaked from a nuclear reactor at a power plant in northern Japan but no workers were exposed, according to the plant's operator.
Rain, Hail Storms Kill at Least Seven in China
Four days of rain and hail storms triggered mountain torrents and landslides in China's central province of Hunan, killing at least seven people, Xinhua news agency said on Monday.
Schools get environmentally friendly with 'green' designs
Geothermal heating and cooling systems are gaining popularity in eastern Iowa schools, saving on energy costs and keeping students from shivering during chilly winters and sweltering on the sunniest days.
Seven states submit 12 site proposals for FutureGen coal plant
There were no surprises Tuesday as the US Department of Energy and FutureGen Alliance announced the list of formal proposals to host the FutureGen "zero-emissions" clean-coal power plant.
Strong metals prices offset Canadian currency in mining sector
High commodity prices more than offset any negative impact a strong Canadian dollar may be having on Canadian mining companies, said an analyst. The Canadian currency recently hit 28-year highs relative to its US counterpart above 90 cents (US). While a strong domestic currency should be bad news for Canadian-based metals and mining companies, commodity prices have seen an even sharper increase over the past few years,
Tools Will Help Small Drinking Water Utilities Monitor Drinking Water
EPA has released a set of user-friendly multimedia products to help small drinking-water utilities determine federal monitoring requirements and prepare water compliance samples under the Safe Drinking Water Act.
In one of its first acts, the new TVA board will head to Kentucky next week to consider how to mend fences along the utility's northern border. The newly appointed directors have scheduled their first full board meeting on May 18 in Hopkinsville, Ky., to hear from customers planning or considering whether to buy power from other sources.
U.S. railroads, utilities square off over coal
Fashionable and in ever-increasing demand thanks to soaring natural gas prices, power generators literally can't get enough of it. And they complain the U.S. railroads are to blame.
U.S. Wind Energy on Track for Another Record Year
AWEA said it recognizes and respects the paramount importance of any concerns relating to security, and supports resolving legitimate problems as quickly as possible. AWEA also believes that rapid development of domestic energy sources is vital to national security.
Union Pacific on Track to Save Fuel Despite Increased Traffic
Despite rising fuel costs, Union Pacific says that it has reduced fuel costs despite hauling 4% more materials than one year ago.
Enrollments are increasing in the University of New Mexico's nuclear engineering program. In 2001, UNM's undergraduate program had 10 students. Now it has 40.
US House Republicans push gas-use limits, big nuclear expansion
To prevent a crippling US energy crisis, two House Republicans Monday floated contentious proposals to restrict natural gas use by the electricity sector, rely primarily on nuclear power and increase fuel economy standards, saying the time had come for Congress and the White House to make "difficult choices" that have been put off for decades.
Wall Street Concerned About Impact of Oil Prices, Energy Policies, and Climate on Auto Companies
A new Ceres report finds that the uncertainty in the U.S. regarding the future course of energy and climate change policy is a major problem for investors and Wall Street analysts in assessing the value of auto companies, and that analysts need better disclosure from auto companies about their strategies for managing the risks and capturing the opportunities posed by new energy and climate change policies taking effect worldwide.
What's Moving the Oil Markets 050906
The comments made by Condoleezza Rice about the Iranians stalling for time by sending the letters provided a bullish end of day rally," a trader said. With a lack of fresh fundamental news early Tuesday, the market is slowly starting to look towards the latest round of US stock data due out Wednesday.
Why Oil Prices Are Up, and What We Can, and Can't, Do About It
Rising prices for crude oil and gasoline have alarmed many consumers and put President Bush and other U.S. politicians in a position where they feel they have to do something -- anything -- in response, especially in an election year.
"The American public is ahead of the political process in endorsing 'high value' efficiency and renewable energy. "Never have three recent national public opinion polls better defined American attitudes on energy. The polls not only seem to bolster each other but in fact appear to show an emerging national consensus.
Wind power development could boost state economy
Wind energy has the potential to grow into a $40 million business and bring new jobs to the rural communities if local infrastructure is developed, according to the study by the Oregon State University Extension Service.
May 8, 2006
A Better Image with Less Energy
A typical home office with a fax, printer, copier and scanner is projected to save more than $300 over the life of the products thanks to new Energy Star specifications for imaging equipment. For the first time, the specifications cover energy use when the product is in use as well as in standby.
Administration opposes provision to kill Cape Wind project
The Bush administration has come out against a provision tucked into a massive federal authorization bill that would allow the governor of Massachusetts to veto the country's first offshore wind power project.
Alaska State Senate approves millions to restart Healy coal plant
The state Senate approved spending $12.5 million to help restart the Healy Clean Coal plant in hopes of salvaging the $300 million project.
Alternative Energy and the American Enterprise
Business consumers must have reliable, available, and affordable energy in sufficient quantities to ensure the uninterrupted operation of the enterprise at full capacity. The innovation, growth, financial health, and success of American companies – large and small – has been sustained by the virtually unrestricted consumption of low cost energy. That's our history.
Natural gas pipeline explosions are killing a dozen people each year. The goal of both Congress and industry is to bring that down to zero. Toward that end, current law requires vigorous pipeline inspections through the end of next year, all to fix corrosion, welding defects or malfunctioning equipment.
Brazil inaugurates uranium enrichment center
Rezende stressed Brazil's commitment to the peaceful use of nuclear energy at a ceremony Friday at the plant, built on a former coffee plantation in Resende, 90 miles (150 kilometers) west of Rio de Janeiro.
Caribbean in for Another Bad Hurricane Season
Small Caribbean and Central American countries have suffered devastation and thousands of deaths from increasingly frequent hurricanes, and forecasters predict another rough season this year for the region and its tourist resorts.
Challenges confront ‘hydrogen economy,’ expert says
Valri Lightner, fuel cells team leader for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Hydrogen, Fuel Cells and Infrastructure Technologies Program, spoke at the FuelCellSouth 2006 conference, which got under way in Columbia.
COLUMBIA -- Anything imaginable that uses electricity could one day be powered by hydrogen fuel cells, and this capital city could be a nexus of that new technology in the Southeast. Cellular phone towers, laptops and handheld electronics, backup generators, heating units, lamps and, of course, automobiles:China Premier Pledges to Tackle Water Shortage
Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao pledged to step up efforts to resolve water shortages on Sunday during a tour of the interior region of Ningxia, one of several areas facing a crippling drought.
In a joint federal-state settlement, Mirant Mid-Atlantic (Mirant) has agreed to eliminate nearly 29,000 tons of harmful pollution each year generated by its four electricity generating plants in Maryland and Virginia.
Costs Still Deter Drivers From Going Green
Eco-conscious motorists should do their homework and their sums before switching to greener cars, consumer watchdog Which? advises. It has released a checklist for drivers on what to look out for and an update on how far manufacturers have come in offering affordable solutions to high CO2 emissions.
The DaimlerChrysler fuel cell vehicle fleet is diverse -- in addition to several research vehicles, it also includes medium-duty fuel cell Dodge Sprinter vans and more than 35 Mercedes-Benz Citaro fuel cell buses, which operate in Europe, the United States, Japan, Australia and Singapore. As part of the world's largest fleet of fuel cell vehicles, DaimlerChrysler has more than 25 fuel cell vehicles with customers in California and more than 100 around the world. No other manufacturer comes close to the efforts of DaimlerChrysler with fuel cell technology.
DOE National Laboratories Program Announcement- Basic Research for the Hydrogen Fuel Initiative
SUMMARY: The Office of Basic Energy Sciences (BES) of the Office of Science (SC), U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), in keeping with its mission to assist in strengthening the Nation's scientific research enterprise through the support of fundamental science and the experimental tools to perform basic research, announces its interest in receiving proposals for basic research for the Hydrogen Fuel Initiative (HFI).
Ethanol Future Seen Tied to Incentives
Soaring crude oil prices are boosting the commercial viability of alternative fuel ethanol, but policy incentives will be needed to promote the biofuel, a senior commodities economist said.
First ever organic beauty product award at the Soil Association Organic Industry Awards 2006
Informed and inspiring speakers sparked lively debate among the audience, on a wide range of hot organic topics from textiles and health & beauty products to baby food and catering.
Fuel Cells For Mobile Users Are Coming, Sort Of
Wouldn't it be nice if there were some way to provide portable power in a way that could be replenished quickly, and was light-weight enough to let you carry a day or three's supply around? Fuel cells may be the answer.
Hinton, 16, a junior at Southwest Open School in Cortez who assembled a model-size hydrogen car from a kit as a project in a renewable-energy class, says the day is coming.
"It'll probably be 50 years before they're in common use," Hinton said in a telephone interview. "But they possibly could be marketing some (other than current prototypes) in five years."
Hawaiian Waters Grow Crowded With Whales
The humpback population roaming the North Pacific, estimated at about 10,000, is believed to have been growing at an annual rate of about 7 percent since the mid-1990s. And as more whales swim to Hawaii from icy feeding grounds off Alaska, Canada, Russia and Japan, boaters are navigating around some 1,000 calves born in Hawaiian waters each year.
Hydrogen vehicles on the horizon
With gasoline prices, oil supply and global warming all very much in the news, the world today is unsettled. That is why events like the Clean Cities Congress are so important.This congress is a recognition that we the citizens of Arizona and of the world, must take environmental stewardship very seriously. It is our responsibility to make our environment better, safer and cleaner.
IPE Brent falls on Iranian gesture to resolve tension with US
IPE Brent crude futures in London fell Monday on news that Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has sent a letter to US President George W. Bush to "propose new ways" to resolve tensions over the country's nuclear ambitions, traders said. The gesture could hint at new efforts to resolve the standoff over Tehran's nuclear program, which has pushed crude prices to record highs on the back of fears over disruption to Iranian crude oil production, traders said.
Japan to cooperate in 5 areas of U.S. nuclear fuel program
Japan on Friday offered to cooperate in five areas with a U.S.-initiated international program aimed at safely providing nuclear fuel to developing nations and advancing technologies for recycling and protecting nuclear fuel and waste.
Kentucky one of six states to publicly bid on experimental plant
A western Kentucky county is one of 10 known places in six states competing to land a $1 billion project to build what's being dubbed as the world's cleanest coal-powered fuel plant.
Lifting ethanol tariff will not lower gasoline prices- senators
Lifting the 54 cents/gal tariff on Brazilian ethanol imports would not lower gasoline prices for consumers, according to two US senators from large corn-growing states.
More Than Half of US Streams Polluted - EPA
More than half of US streams are polluted, with the worst conditions found in the eastern third of the country, according to a study by the Environmental Protection Agency.
New hydrogen electrolysers match renewable source applications
Hydro today has launched the new electrolyser concept Inergon® to meet tomorrow's requirements for on-site hydrogen generation.Inergon® is based on PEM technology and employs new and innovative solutions both inside the cell stack and in the balance of the plant.
NRC renews license for TVA's oldest nuclear plant
All three reactors at the Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant in Athens, Ala., were granted longer operating lives, into the 2030s, by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
Huge oil company profits fueled debate among European finance ministers last Friday of a windfall tax on oil firms. "All these taxation ideas are worth considering, but they make sense only if they are implemented globally," Grasser said. "The idea is in its infancy, there has been no thorough discussion. I think we should be prudent on taxation and go ahead only globally to avoid distortions in competition between the main economic blocs," he stated.
Portugal Makes Waves in Alternative Energy
Portugal's sunny climate and picturesque coastline have long been a magnet for tourists. But now, those natural attractions are drawing a different kind of attention. From solar photovoltaics to electricity generation from wind and ocean waves, some of the world's most ambitious and innovative renewable-energy projects are taking shape in this historically poor country of 10.5 million on Europe's western rim.Power Plants and Renewable Energy
Coal by far, has been the dominant contributor to the power demand the world over and is likely to continue to bear the burden for a long time ahead, particularly, in the developing countries like India. Sincere efforts to improve the efficiency of coal based power generation in view of a better understanding of the environmental implications are gaining importance.
Presenting hydrogen and new energy solutions at the Hannover Fair
When the renowned Hannover Fair opened its doors on Monday, Hydro was among the exhibitors - for the tenth year in a row. Hydro presented new technology for its hydrogen plants and new energy solutions. At the Hannover Fair, the company Norsk Hydro Electrolysers AS, fully owned by Hydro, presented new technologies for electrolysers and display a model of an atmospheric electrolyser.Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 050806
Solar activity was very low. There was no activity of note in the five sunspot groups on the visible disk. All these active regions are small with simple magnetic configurations. There is a slight chance for a C-class flare. The geomagnetic field ranged from quiet to minor storm levels. The disturbed conditions were associated with a high speed coronal hole stream. Solar wind speed gradually increased to over 600 km/s following the onset of the high speed stream midday on 06 May.
Senators outline objections to right of way for nuke site on Goshute land
The Bureau of Land Management has received more than 4,350 mostly negative letters, e-mails, postcards and faxes as it considers whether to grant access across public land to a nuclear waste storage facility about 50 miles southwest of Salt Lake City.
States submit proposals to host coal-fired FutureGen plant
The deadline for states to submit proposals for the nation's first emissions-free coal-fired power plant arrived Thursday with at least seven states competing for the $1 billion, 275-MW FutureGen project.
Strong prices set to last for next four-five years- IEA
The world is facing strong crude and product prices until around 2010, International Energy Agency Executive Director Claude Mandil said Monday. "Probably, we will have to live for the next four or five years with very tight capacities, tight markets and strong prices.
UNLV on cutting edge of alternative-fuel vehicles
Unassuming and unimpressive at first glance, a small battery-powered truck is sitting largely unnoticed to passersby outside the Solar-Dish Power Generation Systems on Flamingo Road at UNLV.In reality, it is the center of a multimillion-dollar hydrogen fuel cell research and development project between UNLV Research Foundation
US EPA formally repeals the RFG's oxygenate requirement
The US Environmental Protection Agency Monday formally lifted the requirement that clean-burning reformulated gasoline contain an oxygenate, such as MTBE or ethanol, with the publication of the final rule in the Federal Register.
US Tax Writers Mulling Possible Synfuels Credit Changes
U.S. congressional negotiators are discussing the alteration of the tax
credit for synthetic fuel produced from coal, people familiar with the
discussion said Friday.
Tax writers are seeking to finalize a
Venezuela's Chavez unveils new Orinoco extraction tax
Foreign oil companies with extra heavy crude projects in Venezuela's Orinoco Belt must pay a new "extraction tax" on their production, President Hugo Chavez said Sunday.
Water is life-- Sacred and precious
Indigenous nations and
peoples have always understood water to be one of the most vitally important
sacred elements of life. To underscore this point, Hopi runners ran 2,000
miles, over a period of two weeks, from the Hopi Nation in Arizona to Mexico
City.
They ran to deliver a message at the World Water Forum, hosted by the
University of Puebla in Mexico.
What's Moving the Oil Markets 050806
•IPE Brent crude futures in London fell Monday on
news that Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has sent a letter to
US President George W. Bush to "propose new ways" to resolve tensions
over the country's nuclear ambitions.
•All of the bullish fundamentals that have kept the price of crude
within a $72/barrel and $75/barrel range are still there such as weak
gasoline prices, said one broker.
Xcel Energy a Finalist in Edison Electric Award for Utility Innovations
Itron Inc.congratulated Xcel Energy today as a finalist for the utility industry's highest honor, the "Edison Award." Xcel Energy was nominated for its one-of-a-kind Utility Innovations initiative, a visionary project that leverages the power of partnership and collaboration to drive cutting-edge developments in technology.
May 5, 2006
APS expands agreement with Western Wind Energy
Western Wind Energy Corporation and Arizona Public Service ("APS") have agreed to expand the terms of their current 15 MW agreement, to add an additional 25 MW of wind energy production, taking the total to 40 MW. If there is sufficient available capacity in the current transmission system, the agreement would go to 45 MW.
As Hurricanes Loom, Many in Florida Keys Flee
Spiralling living costs, lingering trauma from past evacuations and fear that one day million-dollar homes could be reduced to rubble or again flooded are driving people out of the vulnerable Florida Keys as another hurricane season looms.
Australia’s Interest Rates Raised to 5.75 Percent
In Australia, domestic spending has been growing at a solid pace recently and prevailing conditions suggest that this is likely to continue. High profitability and rising share prices are indicative of a favourable business environment in which investment growth is likely to remain strong.
Bush administration still weighs lifting ethanol tariffs-- Bodman
However, Bodman suggested that a decision on the tariffs is really up to Congress, which is juggling a variety of different interests on the matter.Some US corn producers, for example, are concerned that cheaper ethanol from Brazil could erode their market share.
Canada's energy security is threatened. The throbbing heat last summer along with the fallout from Hurricane Katrina constrained its limited resources and prompted it to buy much more power from the United States.The government can't afford to subsidize electricity prices. Now, the province of Ontario announced it will have to raise rates 15-25 percent to cover the shortfalls.
Canadian metals exploration to see continued growth In 2006
Mineral exploration investment in Canada is expected to increase by 9% in 2006 to C$1.4 billion ($1.26 billion), the largest level in more than five years, according to preliminary estimates from Natural Resources Canada. However, an analyst thought a number of factors may limit any increase.
China plans to supply electricity to 10 million rural residents by 2010
China plans to increase its installed hydropower capacity by 15 million kilowatts to supply electricity for 10 million rural residents from 2006 to 2010, said sources with the Ministry of Water Resources (MWR) on Thursday [4 May].
Czechs to Propose 100 Million Tonnes Per Year CO2 Cap
The Czech Republic may propose an annual carbon dioxide emissions cap of around 100 million tonnes in a draft emissions plan for 2008-2012 to be sent to the European Commission, a government official said on Thursday.
EPA Administrator, Governors to Review Boutique Fuels
Boutique fuels are specialized blends produced for a specific state or area of the country to meet state and local air quality requirements. Boutique fuels deliver substantial air quality and public health benefits at minimal costs - ranging from point-3 (0.3) to three cents per gallon. However, these unique fuels may present serious challenges to the fuel distribution system and, especially in times of disruption, may have the potential to result in local supply shortages.
EPA Unveils First-Ever Assessment of U.S. Wadeable Streams
"This scientific report card on America's streams will help citizens and governments measure the health of their watersheds, take actions to prevent pollution, and monitor for progress," said Assistant Administrator for Water Benjamin H. Grumbles. "Small streams are connected to the overall health of a community's ecology and economy and this report underscores their importance and identifies priority work ahead."
The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) announced yesterday that coral reefs native to Florida and the Caribbean are at risk of extinction and must be protected under the Endangered Species Act. "Today's announcement is a victory for sound science and coral reef conservation, but we must act quickly to reduce global warming emissions before it is too late to recover our corals."
Ford Launches Customer Carbon Offset Program
Ford Motor Company and TerraPass have announced "Greener Miles, a program offering Ford vehicle owners the opportunity to offset the climate impact of their driving through the support of projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Geothermal Could Meet 6% of U.S. Electrical Needs by 2025
Geothermal resources could supply more than 30,000 MW of power by 2025, the Geothermal Energy Association (GEA) told the Senate Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee earlier this week. This would meet 6 percent of today's total U.S. electricity needs, supplying consumers, boosting the economy, and stabilizing energy costs. But, GEA testified, budget cuts would be a major setback for new development.
Green Grid Grows, Adds Three New Members
Within the past several days, Dell, Egenera, and Rackable Systems have all joined The Green Grid, a global organization focused on reducing growing power and cooling demands in data centers worldwide.
House tackles price gouging, Bush meets with lawmakers
The House on Wednesday approved criminal penalties and fines of up to $150 million for energy companies caught price gouging, yet lawmakers acknowledged there is no quick and easy fix to higher pump prices. President Bush summoned Democrats and Republicans to the White House to discuss legislation to address long-term energy concerns.
Indians Cheer Bolivia Nationalization, Big Oil Concerns
In the poor city of El Alto, leaders offered up coca leaves in traditional ceremonies to cheer Morales for seizing control of oil and gas fields from foreign companies, signaling the strong domestic support for his decision.
IPE Brent finds support at $70bbl as it recovers from sell-off
IPE Brent futures in London recovered slightly on Friday from the $5/barrel sell-off in the previous two sessions, rising ahead of the weekend with market players expecting to see a small rally despite there being no fresh news.
La Nina Shouldn't Affect Atlantic Hurricanes - NASA
La Nina, a Pacific Ocean phenomenon that can help form Atlantic hurricanes, is not expected to be a factor this season, good news after last year's disastrous storm season.
Lawmakers asked to consider special session on energy prices
Connecticut--A day after the legislative session adjourned, state lawmakers on Thursday faced the prospect of a special session to deal with rising energy prices. "Consumers should be appalled and angry that the legislators have failed to debate or vote, let alone approve, a significant energy proposal," he said. "Inertia and inaction are not an option."
Momentum Builds for Lucrative Hydrogen Energy Prize
Four expert witnesses on Capitol Hill recently testified in support of a prize to promote technological advances in hydrogen technology. The witnesses testified at a hearing on a bill by Research Subcommittee Chairman Bob Inglis (R-SC) that would establish a prize competition to encourage the research and development (R&D) necessary to overcome the technical barriers that currently stand in the way of hydrogen becoming a practical alternative to oil in fueling our transportation sector.
Nuclear experts push for waste re-use plan
The heads of the nation's energy laboratories made a case Tuesday for finding a way to re-use nuclear-reactor fuel, saying it could extend the life of the Yucca Mountain, Nev., repository through the end of the century and help prevent the global spread of nuclear weapons.
Ontario to tap more water power
Take away all the tourism, glitter and casinos, and Niagara Falls still packs a big punch. There's power in the falls. Electrical power. And Canadians plan to use more of it.
PNM Resources, the holding company for PNM, said a continuing vibration problem in Palo Verde's Unit 1 forced it to shut down in December. That reduced the amount of power available for PNM to sell, cutting first-quarter earnings by $9.9 million
Provision to cut greenhouse gases cut from Florida House bill
Lawmakers also grilled the bill's sponsors about its promotion of nuclear power. "In this bill we're encouraging the building of nuclear plants. What do we do about nuclear waste in this energy bill?" asked Rep. Eleanor Sobel, D-Hollywood, holding up a study on childhood cancers in South Florida.
Quebec Plans C$25 Billion Boost to Hydro, Wind Power
Quebec expects to significantly expand its hydro- and wind-generated electricity projects and increase its power exports as part of the 2006-15 strategic energy plan it unveiled Thursday.
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 050506
Solar activity was low. An active region on the east limb (S10E90) produced a C1 flare. A very faint partial halo CME. The geomagnetic field was quiet to active, with a single minor storm period at high latitudes from 1200 - 1500 UTC.
Robust storage levels push down Midcontinent spot gas prices
Midcontinent spot gas prices tumbled as much as 30 cents Thursday as buyers strayed from the spot market, having "realized that storage is robust and, if anything, they need to be drawn down before they overflow," one trader said.
Russian official maps out plans to revive nuclear power industry
Russia's nuclear power sector has successfully survived the post-Chernobyl decline and is gaining ground, Kiriyenko said. Another two or even four power units could be built at the Volgodonsk nuclear power plant in addition to its present two provided the consent of the local authorities and public, Kiriyenko said.
Scientists Probe Atlantic, Find New Species of Life
Scientists have found about 10-20 new species of tiny creatures in the depths of the Atlantic in a survey that will gauge whether global warming may harm life in the oceans, an international report said on Thursday.
Senate bill would set targets for cutting US oil consumption
A bipartisan group of senators introduced a bill Thursday that would cut US oil use by 10 million b/d -- roughly half the country's current consumption -- by 2036.
Storm Tracks Worsening Drought in Some US States, Alleviating Drought in Others
May storminess, rains or lack thereof, can potentially tip the scales in favor of hotter or milder weather likelihoods in the ensuing Summer (June-September). For some locations the certitude of blistering surface conditions this Summer are being locked in,
Tidal power, LNG floated for Cutler
If a rising tide raises all ships, it one day could generate electricity in a local bay and float liquefied natural gas tankers as they come and go from a terminal adjacent to a local Navy- owned property.
U.S. Mayors Respond to Washington Leadership Vacuum on Climate Change
"Recognizing that global warming may fast be approaching the point of no return and that the world cannot wait for the U.S. government to act, hundreds of U.S. city mayors have pledged to cut emissions of greenhouse gases.
U.S. to Protect Two Coral Species as Caribbean Warms
The U.S. government said Thursday it would list two coral species as "threatened" under federal species protection laws after damage to them increased last year as the Caribbean warmed to record levels.
Unclean Fuels Kill 1.5 Million People Per Year - UN
Half the world's population burns wood, coal, dung and other solid fuels to cook food and heat their homes, exposing them to dangerous smoke that kills 1.5 million people a year, the UN health agency said on Thursday.
US Interior funding bill silent for now on OCS ban
A US House subcommittee Thursday approved a fiscal 2007 appropriations bill for the Department of Interior without changing a 25-year-old congressional ban on oil and natural gas development on the Outer Continental Shelf, a move one of the panel's members has been advocating.
Wall Street Pushes to Buy Currencies as Dollar Weakens
Wall Street is increasingly encouraging individual investors to bet on foreign currencies, and money managers are rolling out a host of new funds to allow them to do this.
What's Moving the Oil Markets 050506
Windmill farm off Jersey coast seen as test case
Panel recommends turbines be explored as power. Eighty wind turbines could rise off the Jersey coast in the next few years, as the state tries to settle a divisive debate over offshore wind power.
May 4, 2006
APS plans to add 30 MW of wind power, developer says
Arizona Public Service plans to add up to 30 MW of wind power to its portfolio, on top of 15 MW already under contract with Western Wind Energy, the wind project developer said Thursday.
Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia and Venezuela plan urgent meet May 4
The presidents of Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia and Venezuela are planning an urgent meeting May 4 to discuss energy matters, just days after Bolivia announced the nationalization of its oil and gas industry, Venezuela's state news agency ABN said Wednesday.
ARIZONA-- BIG, BIG OPPORTUNITY
The next big vote on renewable energy won't take place in Washington. It will take place in Phoenix. Sometime this summer, the five commissioners on the Arizona Corporation Commission will vote on a proposed rule to significantly expand renewable energy in Arizona--15% renewables by 2025, and 30%
Bolivian President sends in army to seize control of energy industry
The dramatic Labour Day decision by the Bolivian President Evo Morales to nationalise the energy industry has alarmed the Brazilian and Spanish governments and could scare off the very investment and expertise Bolivia needs to turn its vast natural resources into wealth for its poor.
Boosting energy efficiency in housing is focus of new state initiative
New Jersey is hoping to show it's easy being green. Green as in energy efficient, that is. The stepped-up effort comes at an opportune time as the nation grapples with alarmingly high fuel costs...
California governor signs order to promote biomass
California will produce at least 20% of its biofuels within the state by 2010, rising to 75% by 2050.
Canada eliminates support programs for renewables
The federal energy department in Canada will eliminate at least four programs created to provide direct support for renewable energies. “The new government under prime minister Stephen Harper is committed to putting an end to the massive increase in GHG emissions that Canada has seen over the past decade,” says energy minister Gary Lunn.
Carbon Slide Will Not Halt Kyoto Projects - UN
Solar, wind and other green energy projects based in developing countries and funded under the Kyoto Protocol will survive the plunge in the European carbon market, which underpins project investment, the UN says.
The Spirit of Texoma--You are seeing price hikes at the pump, but what about your natural gas bills at home? Now, Atmos Energy wants you to foot the bill for company improvements.
Clean-Burning Gas Benefits Will Continue with More Flexibility
On May 5, an EPA final action will take effect that will provide U.S. oil refiners with more flexibility while maintaining the significant clean air benefits of the reformulated gasoline (RFG) program. As required by the Energy Policy Act of 2005, EPA is removing the RFG two-percent oxygen content requirement that reduces production burdens while continuing to protect the environment.
Congress adds $1 billion to help with summer cooling needs of southerners
For the first time in two decades, Congress recognized that people in the south need assistance staying cool during the region's extremely hot summers, and therefore, approved additional funding from the federal government of $1 billion to the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
Emission-free plant site proposed
Kentucky is one of at least nine states that have already suggested more than 20 sites that will vie for what's estimated to be up to a $1 billion project.
Energy takeover puts Bolivia in a not-very exclusive club
Energy markets shrugged off Bolivian President Evo Morales' decision Monday to take control of the country's large natural gas industry. But the political implications may be far more troubling and harder to ignore.
EU, Brazil Concerned by Bolivia Gas Move
The European Union warned Tuesday that Bolivia's decision to nationalize its natural gas industry could hurt world energy markets.
Facts on Debate About Hurricanes and Global Warming
Here are five facts about the science of hurricanes and global warming:
Flywheels to Provide Satellite Power and Attitude Control
By the summer of 2007, a team of eight personnel serving at the Air Force Research Laboratory's (AFRL) Space Vehicles Directorate, Kirtland Air Force Base, N.M., believe their experiment consisting of three flywheels, spinning between 16,000 and 40,000 revolutions per minute, will demonstrate the innovative technology of combined attitude control and energy storage on a satellite.
Free-falling Crude Oil Weighs on NYMEX June Natural Gas
Pressured by a plummeting crude oil, NYMEX May natural gas moved back down the charts on Wednesday finding a low of $6.54. However, the recalcitrant front month declined to break below technical support at $6.50.
Remember that if you pump the CO2 into the ground, you are not only sequestering carbon, but also oxygen. Plus you are putting two oxygen atoms out of circulation for every single carbon atom. Will this reduction in the amount of available atmospheric oxygen have adverse effects on animal life that depends on oxygen in the atmosphere?
Gazprom in Georgia - A New Geopolitical Game
Over the past few years, Russian-Georgian business groups with their offshore capital have been working to monopolise the Georgian economy and Russia's gas industry has been consolidating its hold over the CIS pipeline infrastructure, particularly through the expansion of Gazprom.
Global Warming Weakens Vast Pacific Climate System
Climate scientists identified a likely new victim of global warming Wednesday: the vast looping system of air currents that fuels Pacific trade winds and climate from South America to Indonesia. This could mean more El Nino-like weather patterns in the United States.
Gold to challenge $850oz over next 18 months
Gold prices will be "well over $600" per ounce this year and will go higher over the next 18 months, even challenging the $850/oz level seen in 1980, Pierre Lassonde, president of Newmont Mining, said Wednesday.
Green power increases 250% in UK
Total generation of green power in Britain increased 250% from 1996 to 2004, from 5,685 to 14,171 GWh. The increase was led by biofuels.
Hurricane Destruction Powers Global Warming Debate
The ferocity of last year's season gave ammunition to a growing chorus of voices that says humans and their greenhouse gas-spewing cars and factories could be making hurricanes more destructive. But it did nothing to convince a hard core of hurricane researchers who insist there's no evidence that people are responsible for the recent intensity, and growing number, of tropical cyclones. The stakes are high.
IMF urges Mideast states to adjust policies to high oil prices
High oil prices and a "benign global environment" have underpinned Middle Eastern and Central Asian economic growth, which averaged 6.5% last year despite ongoing geopolitical tensions, the International Montetary Fund said Thursday.
Independent Power Producers Denounce Colorado Law for Power Plant
A group of independent power producers says a proposed state law to develop an experimental coal-gasification power plant is a sweetheart deal for Xcel Energy because of a skewed bidding process.
IPE Brent extends fall on bearish US gasoil, gasoline data
IPE Brent crude futures in London extended losses in early trading Thursday after unexpected builds in US gasoline and gasoil stocks pushed prices lower Wednesday.
Lawmakers grapple with energy bill, other issues in remaining hours
Connecticut--With a Wednesday adjournment looming, state lawmakers were busy Tuesday trying to broker a deal on a wide-ranging energy bill designed to stabilize rising rates for consumers and encourage new sources of electricity.
Many Factors Push Natural Gas Prices
Local energy and chemical industry officials say that while a number of policy measures and new technologies can help the state with high energy prices, there is no hope of returning to the halcyon days of $2 natural gas anytime soon.
The global-warming news flow took an unexpected turn yesterday. A spate of headlines brimming with harmony and accord started popping out of the woodwork.
N.J. panel recommends proceeding with offshore wind-energy proposal
A panel assembled by New Jersey Gov. Jon Corzine has wrapped up a 15-month wind-energy study and concluded that the state should move forward cautiously in developing an offshore project.
New plant tax credit guidance posted on IRS web site
Guidance on the allocation of production tax credits for new advanced nuclear power plants has been posted on the IRS web site. The Energy Policy Act of 2005 authorized the credits as an investment stimulus.
Oil price pushed higher by new investors
A global economic boom, sharply higher demand, extraordinarily tight supplies and domestic instability in many of the world's top oil-producing countries in that environment, higher oil prices were inevitable.
Ozone Layer Shows Signs of Recovery, Scientists Claim
The ozone layer is showing signs of recovering, thanks to a drop
in ozone-depleting chemicals, but it is unlikely to stabilise at pre-1980 levels, researchers said on
Wednesday.
Depletion of the earth's protective ozone layer is caused by the
chemical action of chlorine and bromine released by man-made
chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which are used in aerosol sprays and cooling
equipment.
Philippines prepares to start phase out of oil import tariff
The Philippines is set to start phasing out its across-the-board 3% import tariff on crude oil and refined oil products within the next two weeks, several local newspapers reported in their online versions Thursday.
Plant paying $79 million to Department of Energy
Buoyed by high natural gas prices, the Great Plains Synfuels Plant has paid $79 million to the U.S. Department of Energy as part of an agreement that rescued the Beulah factory from a possible shutdown. Great Plains makes synthetic gas from lignite.
Progress Energy Carolinas Asks for Fuel Factor Increase in South Carolina
Reflecting continued high prices for coal, natural gas and other fuel used to produce electricity, Progress Energy Carolinas today filed to increase the fuel rate charged to its South Carolina customers. The proposed increase is significantly less than the rise in fuel charges in mid-2005.
Red Tide Fears Broaden Shellfishing Ban
A massive bloom of red tide struck the New England coast last May following stormy weather that blew the phytoplankton from offshore waters to the coast. At its worst, the bloom forced the closure of most shellfish harvesting areas from Maine to Cape Cod. Last year's algae bloom was the worst in New England since 1972.
Refiners urge lawmakers to stop blaming industry for high prices
Politicians need to stop blaming the oil industry, and accept that it is strong economic growth in the US and abroad that is causing high gasoline and crude oil prices, National Petrochemical and Refining Association President Bob Slaughter told reporters Wednesday.
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 050406
Solar activity was very low. Region 877 (S05W41) produced a B2 flare. Solar activity is expected to be very low to low. The geomagnetic field is expected to be quiet to unsettled on 04 May. Active to minor storm conditions are expected on 05 - 06 May due to a recurrent coronal hole high speed stream.
Scotland approves Europe's largest windfarm
The Scottish Executive has granted permission to build the largest onshore windfarm in Europe, where 140 turbines will generate green power for 200,000 homes.
Senator plans to hold up Interior nominee on drilling issue
US Senator Bill Nelson, Democrat-Florida, said Wednesday he still plans to block the nomination of Idaho Governor Dirk Kempthorne, a Republican, to be Interior secretary unless the senator receives assurances Florida will be protected from expanded offshore oil and natural gas drilling.
State withdraws concerns about nuclear power boost
Vermont --The state is satisfied that a 20 percent power increase at the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant will be safe.
Toshiba Nano-Tech Li-ion Charges in One Minute
Toshiba Corp. has announced a breakthrough in lithium-ion batteries that could make long recharge times a thing of the past. The company’s new battery can recharge 80% of its energy capacity in only one minute, approximately 60 times faster than the typical lithium-ion batteries in wide use today
TXU eyes Mid-Atlantic for new coal-fired generation
TXU, which said it would spend $10 billion to build eight new coal-fired power plants in Texas last month, said Tuesday it would expand that program outside of its home state. But locations and coal sources have not been decided yet.
U.S. utility to boost its wind output by 150%
MidAmerican Energy, which claims to have the largest installed wind capacity of all rate-regulated utilities in the country, has received approval from the Iowa Utilities Board to install up to 545 MW of additional wind-powered generation.
UK health watchdog to prosecute Sellafield nuclear site
The UK's Health and Safety Executive is to bring a criminal prosecution against British Nuclear Group Sellafield in connection with an incident at the Sellafield nuclear reprocessing site, the HSE said Wednesday. The prosecution follows a detailed investigation by HSE's Nuclear Installations Inspectorate into a leak of radioactive liquor inside a heavily shielded facility.
UK releases action plan to promote biomass
The British government will take 12 steps to increase the use of biomass in the renewable energy sector. “There is enormous potential in biomass to generate renewable energy, to help the environment and to provide another possible market for our farmers,” says Lord Bach of Defra.
UK report dispels myth of intermittent green power
Intermittent energy supplied by renewable sources is not more costly or more limiting, according to a “definitive” report by the UK Energy Research Centre. “The output of fossil fuel plant will need to be adjusted more often to cope with fluctuations in wind output, but any losses this causes are small compared to overall savings in emissions.”
US House approves bill prohibiting gasoline price gouging
Responding to public sentiment that oil companies are cheating Americans at the pump, the House of Representatives Wednesday overwhelmingly approved a hastily created bill to prohibit abusive oil pricing.
US utility power output rises 3% in week ending April 29-- EEI
US utilities generated 68,651 GWh of power in the week ending April 29, 3% above the total generated in the same period of 2005, the Edison Electric Institute said Wednesday.
What's Moving the Oil Markets 050406
"Today the market is being pulled back by weak gasoline prices and weak gasoil, which has fallen by about $25, and we are really testing support levels for crude," said one broker.
On Wed, IPE Brent crude fell after the US DoE released its latest stock report showing an unexpected build in gasoline and crude oil inventories.
World Bank calls for increased investments in clean energy
The world must work to meet energy needs that are essential for economic growth and which leave a smaller environmental footprint, according to a report from the World Bank and International Monetary Fund.
World's largest solar PV facility to install 52,000 modules
The 11 MW facility in Serpa, 200 km southeast of the Portugese capital, will involve a US$75 investment from GE Energy Financial Services, which will finance and own the plant. Construction will start this month on a 60 hectare south-facing hillside that will remain productive farmland.
May 3, 2006
Action needed over water shortage
People living in areas of England affected by water shortages have been urged by the Consumer Council for Water (CCWater) to help the issue by conserving as much water as possible and sticking to basic guidelines. The South East and Thames areas have had hosepipe and sprinkler bans imposed in a bid to help conserve supplies in the run-up to summer, however, an element of uncertainty remains over what practices are allowed or banned.
After La Nina, Philippines Braces for Rainy Season
The effect of the La Nina weather pattern in the Philippines is nearly over but the country should prepare for the start of the rainy season in the second half of May, a senior meteorologist said on Tuesday.
All Things Organic(TM) Conference and Trade Show Offers Green Travel to Attendees and Exhibitors
The typical All Things Organic attendee or exhibitor who chooses to green his or her travel will displace approximately 4,080 pounds of CO2 from the electricity grid, which is the leading industrial contributor to global warming. All of BEF's Green Tag products come from new renewable energy projects (such as wind and solar) and are certified as 100 percent renewable by Green-e(R).
The €100m pledged by the European Commission for bird flu projects around the world is well on the way to being mobilized, according to the latest report. The funding package was designed to assist developing nations to combat the disease in wildlife and increase preparedness for a potential human pandemic.
Browns Ferry nuclear plant to get 20-year license extension
Under the new license, Browns Ferry will be able to operate until as late as July 2036.
California is Developing a 28.6% Increase in Geothermal Power Generation
The State of California, known for its strict environmental rules, currently has over 18,000 megawatts of operational renewable energy generation (biomass, geothermal, hydroelectric, solar, and wind).
California Launches Solar Website for New Home Construction
The California Energy Commission launched a new website encouraging installations of solar energy in new residential home construction. The New Solar Homes Partnership website is in response to the Governor's Million Solar Roofs Initiative to create 3,000 megawatts (MW) of solar electricity in the state by the end of 2017.
Canada's Enbridge to build C$250 million Alberta crude terminal
Canada's Enbridge plans to build a new 5 million barrel crude terminal at Hardisty, Alberta, at a cost of C$250 million ($226 million), the company said Wednesday.
Carbon Emissions -- What Price a Pollution Solution?
By most measures, Europe's carbon emissions trading scheme has had a successful start. In its first year -- 2005 -- the scheme transacted a total of 230 million metric tons of CO2, worth about €4 billion. A whole new industry -- of exchanges, brokers, research firms, consultants and publishers -- has been created, seduced by the promise of what is expected to be a multi-billion-euro industry.
China's 'Roof of the World' Glaciers Melting Fast
Glaciers covering China's Qinghai-Tibet plateau are shrinking by 7 percent a year due to global warming and the environmental consequences may be dire, Xinhua news agency reported on Tuesday.
Common Soap Antiseptic Found in U.S. Crop Fields
A chemical widely used to make soap "antiseptic" survives sewage treatment and is being spread onto farmland and released into water, with unknown effects, researchers reported Tuesday.
Copper prices 'disconnected' from fundamentals
Rapidly escalating copper prices have become "disconnected" from market fundamentals as a result of individual and institutional speculators entering the commodities markets, copper fabricator General Cable said Tuesday.
Danube Floods Pose Disease Threat -- Red Cross
Romanian authorities said Europe's second-longest river threatened to crack waterlogged dikes despite water levels having retreated from record highs over the past week after the country's worst floods in more than a century.Demolition contractors generate 115 million tons of waste annually
Demolition contractors generate about 115 million tons of waste each year in the United States, according to a new study for the National Demolition Association. The survey, which uses 2004 data, also indicates that an estimated 73 percent of the material is either reused or recycled by the industry.
EPA hopes to issue final Yucca rule by end 2006
Speaking at an international high-level
waste conference in Las Vegas, Elizabeth Cotsworth said the agency is trying
to determine what changes, if any, are needed in its proposed 1-million-year
radiation protection standard for a nuclear waste repository at Yucca Mountain,
Nevada.
EPA nuclear dump radiation limit expected this year-- Official
Capt. Ray Clark, of the U.S. Public Health Service and team leader for Yucca Mountain project standards, told a conference Monday in Las Vegas that the radiation limit will be designed to protect people living near the repository for 1 million years.
Florida Senate energy bill fits Bush demand
The Senate passed an energy bill 39-0 on Monday that creates an advisory commission to suggest energy policy and makes it easier to build power plants. The Senate's energy bill (SB 888) creates an energy commission under Legislative Services that would research and recommend energy policy, such as ways to cut greenhouse emissions, which contribute to global warming.
Global Warming Differences Resolved with Corrections in Readings
A nagging difference in temperature readings that had raised questions about global warming has been resolved, a panel of scientists reported Tuesday. "This significant discrepancy no longer exists because errors in the satellite and radiosonde data have been identified and corrected." The findings show clear evidence of human influences on climate due to changes in greenhouse gases, aerosols and stratospheric ozone.
Governor Edward G. Rendell today announced Pennsylvania is partnering with Kentucky and Ohio to bring to the region the world's first coal-fueled, near-zero-emissions power plant -- a $1 billion project proposed by the FutureGen Industrial Alliance and the U.S. Department of Energy.
Green light for Europe’s largest wind farm
The Scottish Executive has announced the go-ahead for what will be Europe’s largest wind farm, in a move that has been warmly praised by renewable energy advocates. The Whitelee facility, south of Glasgow, will generate 322 megawatts and provide more than 11% of Scotland’s renewable energy target (18% by 2010)
Green Technology-- Use Less Resources and Increase Profits
Imagine a world where houses are built from plant materials instead of cement and bricks. Drinking water is disinfected by solar energy, not chemicals. And homes are designed to harvest rainwater to supply hot and cold water. It's not a far away dream - you can see it next week at the first National Sustainable Design Expo on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.,
Greenpeace Report Warns Commonly Found Chemicals May Be Harming Reproductive Health
Greenpeace pushed Tuesday for EU legislation for tougher regulation of the chemicals industry, warning that not enough has been done to test the effect of chemicals found in consumer products -- from cosmetics to computers -- on human reproductive health.
Aggregation -- as it is known -- attempts to create economies of scale so that the participants in the buying pool receive a lesser price for power than they would get if they shopped the market by themselves.
Armed with improved transmission and new power plants, Southern California is likely to survive the summer without blackouts as long as there is no unforeseen catastrophe, state agencies and Southern California Edison are predicting.
IBERDROLA, the largest owner and operator of renewable energy facilities in the world, headquartered in Madrid, Spain, and Community Energy, Inc. (CEI), a leading U.S. wind energy marketing and development company based in Wayne, Pennsylvania, announced today a merger agreement in which CEI will be acquired by IBERDROLA.
IMF Expects 7% Growth for Asia But Wary Over Oil
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) forecast 7.0 percent economic growth across Asia for 2006 but warned of significant risks such as sharply higher oil prices.
Is Detroit´s bulk-trash problem taking steroids? Or maybe there´s something weird happening with gamma rays in the city? Because like the Incredible Hulk, the Big D´s big-waste predicament seems to be bursting at its seams and growing bulkier by mile-high, earthshaking leaps and bounds.
Iraq crude exports climb to 12-month high on stable conditions
The export figure represents the highest level for total exports over the last 12 months and the second highest level for southern exports since the US-led coalition toppled Saddam Hussein in March 2003.
LNG will bring down California's energy costs
During the year 2005 natural gas rates for some firms rose 40 percent to 70 percent. Electricity rates moved in the same direction. Business owners and managers are cutting expenses, delaying expenditures and otherwise trying to offset those high energy prices.
Million Solar Roofs Bill Resurrected
The California Solar Initiative (CSI), adopted this past January by the California Public Utilities Commission, was widely considered a major victory for supporters of solar energy in California and beyond. It secured a long-term solar rebate plan for California funded at $3.2 billion dollars. But the solar roller coaster ride isn't entirely over as the Million Solar Roofs bill, SB1, was recently resurrected by state lawmakers to address some items left unattended by the CSI.
Motor industry ‘failing’ on green issues
New figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) have shown that the average carbon dioxide emissions from new cars sold in the UK during 2005 was 169.4g/km, a situation that shows the industry is failing on climate change progress, according to the green group Friends of the Earth.
Nationalization of Bolivian Natural Gas is Part of a Broader Global Trend
Soaring energy prices are fueling a global wave of natural-resource nationalization that is souring the investment landscape for international oil companies and reshaping energy politics for years to come.
New Survey Shows Strong Support for Nuclear Energy
Americans want clean, affordable, domestically produced energy; 76% think more needs to be done to ensure future electricity supply. Americans see a clear need for electricity production solutions that focus on affordability, energy independence and protecting the environment.
Nickel price collapse could sour stainless sentiment
A hasty retreat in nickel prices from their recent peaks could turn the bullish sentiment in the stainless steel sector negative and trigger a round of destocking with people unloading inventory in a falling market, UK-based consultancy MEPS said Tuesday.
Oil in Alaska Refuge Seen Raising $111 Billion for U.S.
Allowing energy companies to drill for oil in Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge would raise about $111 billion over 30 years in corporate income taxes and royalty fees, based on current prices, a congressional research report said Tuesday.
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 050306
Solar activity was very low. Region 875 (S12W47) produced a B2 flare. The geomagnetic field is expected to be quiet to unsettled. Active conditions are expected on 5 May due to a recurrent coronal hole high speed stream.
Report Shows U.S. Ability To Steward the Environment and Generate Clean Electricity
A report released today illustrates how the United States balances environmental stewardship and the production of a domestic source of climate-friendly, affordable, and renewable electricity-hydropower.
Researchers focused on satellite energy storage
The experiment consists of three flywheels spinning between 16,000 and 40,000 revolutions per minute. For decades, flywheels, or rotational disks, have been used as spacecraft positioning devices, but have not been extensively considered for power purposes. The success of the Flywheel Attitude Control, Energy Transmission and Storage, or FACETS, system's trial could change that perspective.
Senate to consider bill that would curb CO2, several other pollutants
Sen. Tom Carper, D-Del., plans to introduce a multipollutant bill on Wednesday that would reduce mercury and ozone pollution from power plants while setting the nation´s first-ever carbon dioxide cap to combat global warming.
Sky-High Oil Prices Fuel Ethanol Mania in China
Record crude oil prices are fuelling ethanol fever in China, the world's second-largest oil consumer, despite Beijing's reservations in allowing more food grains to be used to run cars. Beijing is reluctant to expand ethanol production from food grains as China will face a shortage of grains like corn or wheat possibly as early as next year, due to rising domestic demand brought on by higher affluence.
States sue Bush administration in effort to boost CAFE standards
California, New York, and eight other states sued the US Department of Transportation Tuesday in an effort to force the Bush administration to raise Corporate Average Fuel Economy standards for gas-guzzling sport-utility vehicles and light trucks.
Study of U.S. Power Company Air Emissions Has Good News, Bad News
A new report evaluating air pollution trends among the 100 largest electric power producers in the U.S. shows that emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) have fallen markedly in recent years, but carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions increased and will likely spike in coming years.
Sustainable plan for food industry
The UK food industry’s impact on resources such as energy and water is the focus of a new strategy published this week. Using 1990 as a baseline, the strategy aims for the industry to cut emissions by 20% by 2010, reduce water use by 10-15% and lower its food waste by 15-20%. Ethical trading issues are also covered in the strategy.
The nuclear waste disposal problem
It has two distinct parts: Historically, radioactive waste has accumulated for more than 50 years - less than 20per cent of it from nuclear power stations, the rest from the Ministry of Defence, hospital X-ray machines and many industrial processes. Given the existing, historical, need for acceptable disposal processes, the extra waste from new nuclear power stations would be a modest addition.
To the man in the street the name Gazprom means little but in coming years it could figure large in the UK's energy thinking. Gazprom supplies a quarter of Europe's gas and the company courted controversy in January after it cut supplies to the Continent following a price dispute with the Ukraine.
A new 2006 Sandia Report reveals that a flammable LNG vapor cloud could extend 7.3 miles, warns consumer protection advocates Tim Riley and Hayden Riley, producers of film: "The Risks and Danger of LNG."
TXU To Consider Coal Plants In Pennsylvania,Virginia, W Va
US House bill takes aim at lawsuit challenging royalty payments
US Representative Darrell Issa, Republican-California, Tuesday introduced a bill to block a lawsuit he says could result in the federal government losing billions in offshore oil and natural gas royalties.
Temperature results in the month of May are poorly correlated with the Summer Season in the U.S.
Gulf of Mexico water temperatures are extremely warm across the basin (and 2-3°C warmer than last year at this time) which is especially troubling since early-Season Tropical formation tends to cluster near North America.
What's Moving the Oil Markets 050306
May 2, 2006
Last fall, two Nuclear Regulatory Commission inspectors conducted a two-day supplemental investigation to evaluate the corrective actions Peach Bottom Atomic Power Station's Unit 2 officials took to address three unscheduled shutdowns. Any reactor that has three scrams with loss of normal heat removal in three years will earn a "white" performance indicator, said Fred Bower, an NRC senior resident inspector.
Brockton's Solar 'Brightfield'
If you are following the solar electricity market or are interested in photovoltaics positive impact on the environment, you may have heard about the City of Brockton in Massachusetts and its plans to convert a former manufactured gas plant "brownfields" site into a solar energy power plant.
Canary Islands sewage treatment plant turns waste into energy
Spanish Canary Islands are a destination for millions of travelers each year. As a collection of islands totaling only 2,875 square miles, disposal of wastewater and solid waste is an environmental and political issue throughout the Canaries.
Crude might cross $100 this winter-- Iran's deputy oil minister
Speaking to reporters in New Delhi during a short break in his meeting with Indian oil minister Murli Deora, Hosseinian predicted the spike to the three-digit figure could happen if winter demand for oil is strong and exceeds output.
Does Nuclear Power Really Make Sense?
With Earth Day upon us, it’s important to refresh our memories about the dangers of nuclear power. The promoters of nuclear power, corporate and political, are attempting to make nuclear power the wave of the future, in the U.S. and much of the world. In doing so, most of the negative aspects of nuclear power -- those common-sense reasons that prevented nuclear power plants from being built in the U.S. for some 30 years -- are being swept under the rug. Even some environmentalists are calling for more nuclear power and falsely or mistakenly labeling it as green.
Energy plan taking shape in Florida Legislature
A wide-ranging energy bill passed Monday by the Senate will be vetoed by Gov. Jeb Bush if it reaches his desk with a provision that calls for an independent energy commission.
Ergon and Bunge Propose One of the Largest Ethanol Plants in the Southeast
A Mississippi-based energy company and one of the nation's leading agribusiness firms are teaming up to build the largest ethanol plant in the southeastern United States.
Producing this renewable, clean-burning fuel will require at least 21-million bushels of corn each year, creating new markets for regional corn growers. This facility will also generate corn-based co-products which are excellent feed ingredients for area poultry and livestock producers.
Gold tip-toes higher in Europe, sees strong support at $655 oz
A European trader suggested that the yellow metal was beginning to form a base in the $655/oz area. "It feels like when gold gets close to $655/oz buying comes in," he said.
Greenhouse gases continue to rise
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said Monday there was a continuing increase in carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide in the air last year, though methane leveled off. The agency said and there was a decline in two chlorofluorocarbons, gases blamed for the ozone hole over the Antarctic.
Greenhouse Gases Showed Steady Rise in 2005
Carbon dioxide, emitted by coal-burning power plants and cars, increased last year, according to the federal climate agency's Annual Greenhouse Gas Index, or AGGI. So did nitrous oxide, a byproduct of farming and industry. But methane emissions leveled off and chlorofluorocarbons.
Indonesia Signs $7B Deal With China Firms
Equivalent to about one-third of Indonesia's existing power capacity, it is part of Beijing's plan to reduce dependence on oil-based power and ease energy shortages, South China Morning Post reported Monday.
IPE Brent up ahead of early US gasoline draw estimates
IPE Brent futures in London on Tuesday were up slightly, continuing Monday's strong rise, as the market looks ahead to Wednesday's US inventory data where early projections are for draws in gasoline.
Japan must use reserves in a US-Iran conflict-- Japanese analyst
A US-Iran conflict in the Persian Gulf will hit Asian buyers hard particularly Japan. "A conflict between the U.S. and Iran will have a very serious impact on Japan," Dr Ken Koyama, Director at The Institute of Energy Economics, Japan, a major Japanese think tank told Platts.
Katrina inflicted $1.4 billion in damage on wastewater facilities
The group estimates that the cost to repair and rebuild wastewater facilities will be $1.2 billion. The wastewater utilities also have lost $163 million in revenue base, according to the report.
Morales imposes dreaded new terms on oil majors in Bolivia
Bolivian President Evo Morales, who signed a decree nationalizing the country's oil and gas reserves Monday, told oil majors operating in the country that their proceeds from the country's largest gas fields will soon plummet.
EU says 'concerned' over Bolivia's energy sector nationalization
The European Commission said Tuesday it is "concerned" by the Bolivian government's decision to nationalize the country's energy industry which lacked consultation with foreign oil companies.
New York Senate works with Governor to safeguard clean energy funds
If the budget language had been successful, purchases of renewable energy attributes made by the State Energy Research and Development Authority would have been subject to an annual appropriations process, eroding the certainty of the RPS. New York Governor George Pataki (R) vetoed this harmful language among 200 budget items vetoed. The state legislature worked to override vetoes on every other topic; clean energy funding was the only vetoed item that the Senate did not override.
Nuclear engineers in high demand
With nuclear plants expanding and their employee ranks growing older, trained nuclear engineers are in high demand. More than a quarter of the industry's 15,600 employees will be eligible for retirement in the next five years.
Once Again, U.S. Electricity Prices on the Rise
With all the news about the recent rises in oil, natural gas and gasoline prices it should come as little surprise that the national average price of electricity in the United States rose by a stunning 10.9 percent during the period of April 2005 to April 2006.
Pennsylvania Governor works with large group on wind siting guidelines
Pennsylvania Governor Edward G. Rendell (D) has unveiled a model ordinance that will help clarify the siting rules for wind farms within the state. The draft ordinance represents a model that other states can follow, according to the Governor’s office.
Powerspan to Pilot Test Mercury Removal Technology at AmerenUE's Rush Island Power Plant
Powerspan Corp., a clean energy technology company, and Ameren Corporation subsidiary AmerenUE today announced plans to pilot test a promising mercury removal process at AmerenUE's Rush Island Power Plant in Jefferson County, Missouri.
Progress Energy Florida Signs Deal to Purchase Power From Proposed Biomass Plant
As part of its ongoing support for renewable energy and developing technologies, Progress Energy Florida (PEF) has signed a long-term contract to purchase electricity generated by a unique energy source.
Progressive Energy Proposal Heading to Senate Floor
A proposal that puts Florida exponentially ahead of other states and the federal government in terms of promoting alternative energy and lessening the state's dependence on foreign oil is headed to the floor of the Florida Senate.
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 050206
Solar activity was low. Region 875 (S11W33) produced a long-duration C1/sf flare. A Type II radio sweep, with an estimated shock speed of 436 Km/sec was associated with this flare. The geomagnetic field is expected to be predominantly unsettled. Intervals of active conditions are possible.
Sago lacked lightning protectors
The Sago Mine violated basic electrical safety rules by not installing equipment to prevent lightning from sending a charge into underground mine workings, U.S. and West Virginia investigators have learned.
Saudis to boost output capacity to 12.5 million b/d by 2009--Naimi
Current world crude oil prices are "not in the interest of either Saudi Arabia or the US, Saudi Oil Minister Ali Naimi said in prepared remarks to the Center for Strategic and International Studies Tuesday.
Scientists Tout State Energy Model
Ultimately, scientists say, the solution lies in revolutionizing the global energy supply to replace the 80 percent filled by oil, natural gas and coal with carbon-free energy sources.
Startech Environmental Corporation, a fully reporting company, announced today that it has successfully completed Phase One of the two-phase DOE Program that has as its focus the production of Plasma Converted Gas (PCG) from processing coal and municipal solid waste in the Plasma Converter for the production of hydrogen. Phase Two, now in progress, is focused on the separation of hydrogen from the PCG synthesis gas mixture using the Company's StarCell(TM) system.
Sterling Planet Unveils White Tag Program for Energy Conservation
Sterling Planet, the nation's leading retail renewable energy provider, today announced at the greenT Forum in New York City the launch of a new leading-edge White Tags(TM) energy trading program that encourages and rewards the efficient use of electricity.
Sub-Saharan Africa’s Economies Have Best Performance in 30 Years
Largely on the back of buoyant energy and other primary commodity prices, GDP growth in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is set to reach 5.8% this year--the highest level in more than three decades.
Tehran earmarks money to finish nuclear power plant
The Iranian government allocated funds Monday to finish the country's first nuclear power plant, and workers demonstrated in front of the former U.S. Embassy in support of the country's disputed program. Iran is under heavy pressure to abandon its uranium enrichment, a process that can produce fuel for the Bushehr plant or warheads for nuclear weapons.
UN Warns of Horn of Africa's 'Silent Tsunami'
Only 20 percent of an emergency US$426 million appeal to prevent a catastrophe for millions of people in the drought-hit Horn of Africa has been raised, a senior UN official said on Monday. "It is a silent tsunami. That is why the public awareness is not so high -- the drought has had a gradual, terrible impact where the tsunami was sudden and dramatic.
What's Moving the Oil Markets? 050206
May 1, 2006
Airlines seek to downplay global warming impact of aviation
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) wants to "kill some persistent myths" on the issue. Their arguments are rebutted by environmentalists who claim that the figures are biased.
Aramco raises May propane, butane to $470/mt, up 8-10% on month
Saudi Aramco has raised its contract prices for propane and butane to $470/mt for May loading, up $35/mt and $45/mt respectively from April on higher crude oil prices, the company said Sunday.
Bush and Azerbaijan President Meet to Discuss Oil, Iran
President Bush told Azerbaijan president on Friday that his country has an important role to play in guaranteeing energy security around the world. The two leaders also discussed Iran.
Bush Seeks Authority to Raise Car Fuel Standards
President Bush called for legislation Thursday to allow a boost in fuel-efficiency standards for passenger cars, as he sought to soothe rising anxiety among Americans about higher oil costs.
Calls renewed to dismiss PSC members
Democratic legislative leaders - and a key Republican - renewed calls yesterday to throw out the members of the Public Service Commission during a special session of the General Assembly after the regulatory agency voted to approve an electric rate deferral plan backed by the governor.
Can You Tell Me How to Make a Penny More on Each Barrel of Oil I Get Out of the Ground?
"Can you tell me how to make a penny more on each barrel of oil I get out of the ground?" That was the question asked of myself and my team when I was trying to sell an oil executive on the merits of a cool new technology solution. My answer was, "No," to which he replied, "Then this meeting is over, goodbye!"
Chinese car lust drives battery boom, bust in Kenya
China's rapid expansion into Africa in search of fuel to feed its booming development needs is leaving a profound mark on the continent's economies, often in little noticed sectors.
CO2 Price Crash Signals Tougher EU Pollution Goals
A price crash which this week wiped nearly 40 billion euros (US$50.19 billion) off the value of Europe's greenhouse gas trading scheme will not endanger the market but is likely to make Brussels toughen pollution targets.
Coal plants in Illinois putting more mercury into the air, study shows
While mercury pollution has declined overall nationally, the amount of mercury released into the air by coal-fired power plants has increased in 28 states, including Illinois, according to a published report.
Dominion's emissions raise outcry
Shareholders and demonstrators will ask Dominion Resources Inc. at today's shareholders meeting to make its power plants cleaner and consider the risks of ignoring environmental concerns.
Energy Commission says keep ban on new nuclear plants
In its first comprehensive look at nuclear power in nearly 30 years, the California Energy Commission recommended Friday that the state continue its moratorium on construction of nuclear plants. The commission issued a report that was triggered by the "renewed enthusiasm" about nuclear power in Washington and overseas, commissioner John Geesman said.
EU and US find common ground on biofuels
The EU and US are considering joining forces to promote transport biofuels, following ‘enthusiastic’ exploratory discussions between senior officials in Brussels on Monday. Joint activities would most likely focus on developing standards to support international trade in green fuels and research into second generation biofuels.
From junk mail to nuclear waste - it's all unwanted
"No Junk Mail", the notice says on my front door. In green letters. It is provided by Camden Council, who are at last making a serious attempt to deal with one of the mounting problems of our time: what to do with all the stuff we produce and no longer want. Yet the junk keeps on coming. Clearly the senders don't recognise their own circulars under such a disparaging heading.
GE plans largest solar plant in Portugal
The sheep that have long grazed 60 hectares of farmland in Serpa, Portugal, will soon have to share their space with the world's largest solar energy plant.
Geothermal Could Supply Over 30,000 MW By 2025
Geothermal resources could supply over 30,000 MW of power by 2025, the Geothermal Energy Association (GEA) told the Senate Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee today. This would meet 6 percent of today's total U.S. electricity needs, and is equal to 100 percent of the electricity generated in California, Nevada and Idaho.
Gorbachev urges G8 to back solar power, not oil or nuclear
Former Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev on Wednesday urged the world's biggest industrialised nations to set up a 50-billion-dollar (44-billion-euro) fund to support solar power, warning that oil or nuclear energy were not viable energy sources for the future.
Hawaii suspends its gasoline price cap, adds Singapore quotes
Hawaii's controversial gasoline price cap was suspended by the Legislature late Friday, but will continue to be calculated regularly using a revised formula that includes Singapore spot prices.
The potential of wind farms could get lost if developers are unable to bring costs down and diminish its variability. To combat this, some interesting work is taking place, namely the storage of wind in underground caverns so that it can be released during times when the wind is not blowing.
Holographic Solar-- Could Be Cheaper
Prism Solar Technologies in New York has developed a proof-of-concept solar module that uses holograms to concentrate light, possibly cutting the cost of solar modules by as much as 75 percent, making them competitive with electricity generated from fossil fuels.
Hundreds of Dead Dolphins Wash Ashore in Zanzibar
At least 300 dead dolphins washed ashore on a beach in Zanzibar overnight, residents said on Friday, but the cause of the deaths was unknown.
In sign of the times, retailers preparing for $4 gal gasoline
US drivers should get ready for $4/gallon gasoline to be more pervasive if the orders coming into one company that sells retail service station signage is any indication.
Liquefaction capacity to increase 24.5 million mt /yr this year; market dynamics unchanged
The global LNG supply crunch will be eased somewhat this year as several new liquefaction trains come on stream or ramp up production to full capacity, but Europe and Asia are expected to continue outbidding the US for scarce winter spot supplies, experts told Platts recently.
Magnetic Fridge - 40pct More Efficient
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have discovered a material that gives a whole new complexion to the term 'fridge magnet'. When this alloy is placed in a magnetic field, it gets colder.
Majority of Britons Want New Environmental Law
Three quarters of Britons would like to see a new law introduced forcing successive governments to commit to reducing carbon emissions, a survey showed on Monday.
Measure Proposed on Utilities' Future Costs
State regulators on Wednesday voted to propose a law change that would allow utilities to recover future costs in general rate cases, which are designed to compensate utilities for administrative expenses, operation, maintenance, new plants, equipment and profits.
Modec Electric Van Hits the Road
IN A WORLD GONE MAD, AT LAST THERE’S A COMMERCIAL VEHICLE THAT MAKES SOUND ECONOMIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL SENSE.
N. Korea said in Tokyo it will shift energy policy to nuclear power
North Korean Vice Foreign Minister Kim Kye Gwan said at an academic conference held in mid-April in Tokyo that Pyongyang will shift its basic energy policy from coal and hydroelectric power generation to nuclear energy, conference sources said Saturday.
NASA Launches Climate Satellites
NASA on Friday launched two research satellites to help scientists refine computer models that forecast the weather and chart global climate change. CloudSat has powerful radar instruments to peer deep into the structure of clouds and map their water content. Sister probe CALIPSO will pinpoint aerosol particles and track how they interact with clouds and move through the atmosphere.
New Report Profiles Environmental Stewardship in Major Sectors
Steel recycling has reached a 20-year high. The number of buildings meeting green building standards doubled last year. Paint and coating manufacturers now reclaim 97 percent of all waste solvents for further use. The forest products sector now leads all manufacturers in use of co-generation, a highly efficient process that creates heat and electricity from a single source. These are just a few of the environmental performance trends highlighted in a new EPA report released today.
No silver bullet for energy supply-- Idaho Power explores nuclear, 'seasonal' coal
Each source of power generation comes with its unique set of benefits and disadvantages. And, what looks good today might not look so good tomorrow. "There's no silver bullet for generation projects," said Randy Lobb, an administrator with the Idaho Public Utilities
Now drivers have to pass green test
Britain follows the Dutch with fuel-saving exam for new motorists to cut pollution emissions.
After surviving an emergency stop and three-point turn, driving test candidates will in future have to show they can save fuel as well. Fuel efficiency - or eco-driving - is to be made part of the driving test from 2008 in a move ministers hope will cut polluting emissions, save money on bills and make driving safer.
Nuclear alert draws inspection-- Some say Kewaunee plant went too far with warning
The series of events that led to the alert began Tuesday when Kewaunee operators detected a small leak in a cooling system pipe for an emergency diesel generator and began to shut the plant down to fix the leak, the NRC and Dominion said.
Plan to Usher in More Nuclear Power in Florida Has Been Put on the Fast Track in a Sweeping Energy Bill Moving Through the Legislature. Power companies could hit customers with higher bills to underwrite the cost of building nuclear power plants even before the facilities are built.
Nuclear Waste to Be Stockpiled Above Ground for Decades, Report Reveals
BRITAIN'S stockpile of nuclearwaste should be buried deep underground, but will need to be stored on the surface for decades until proper facilities are ready, a longawaited report to the government concluded yesterday.
Oregon State researchers work to harness ocean's power
Researchers at Oregon State University are honing the design of a new electricity-generating ocean buoy that can turn the sea's churning into clean, green power. The scientists are helping to lay the groundwork for what would be the nation's first offshore wave energy park.
Albany, N.Y. --"New York may not be the windiest state -- it's not as windy as Midwestern states," Flanagan said. "'But given the price of natural gas in New York, wind power is very competitive."
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 050106
A Tenflare (110 sfu) and a Type II radio sweep, with an estimated shock speed of 657 Km/sec, were associated with this flare. An associated CME. Geophysical Activity Forecast: The geomagnetic field is expected to be quiet on 1 May. Predominantly unsettled conditions will occur on 2 May.
Romania Struggles as Floods Leave 4,000 Homeless
Large swaths of land and hundreds of houses along the river, Europe's second-longest, remain under water after weeks of flooding and 14,000 Romanians are still displaced, living in improvised shelters, military tents or with relatives.
Russia talks of diverting oil to Asia
President Vladimir Putin has said that Russia should direct future oil and natural gas exports to Asia because "unprincipled competition" had blocked its energy companies from expanding elsewhere.
South Korea Starts Work on 2 Nuclear Power Reactors
South Korea broke ground on two commercial nuclear power reactors here on Friday as part of its efforts to generate more electricity from atomic energy, a state-run electricity company said.
South Korean energy minister warns refiners on excessive profits
South Korea's energy ministry Monday warned local refiners against reaping excessive profits by overcharging consumers with oil prices running high. "It is not desirable for refiners to record excessive profits at a time when consumers are in difficulties," Commerce, Industry and Energy Minister Chung Sye-kyun told a local radio program.
Sustainable Companies Aim to Make it in Mainstream
Refillable lipstick, a soft camisole made of soybean waste, a normal hybrid car -- these are just some of the new "sustainable" products companies hope will attract the mainstream consumer.
Thaw Releases More Toxins From China Spill
Thawing river ice months after a Chinese toxic spill has released a "second wave" of pollution into waterways near a major Russian Far Eastern city, experts said Sunday.
Washington is pushing construction of a regional pipeline and utility grid linking Central Asia and India. The project envisions a system from Almaty, Kazakhstan, south to Afghanistan, then Pakistan and on to New Delhi, the Gulf Daily News said Friday.
U.S. stocks flat as Exxon worries offset Bernanke
U.S. stocks were little changed on Thursday as disappointing financial results from Exxon Mobil Corp. offset Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke's comment that the Fed could pause in its interest rate increases.
UK government says Blair undecided on nuclear despite reports
UK Prime Minister Tony Blair has not reached a firm decision to support a new generation of nuclear power plants, despite a newspaper report to the contrary Friday, Downing Street's senior press officer Brendan O'Grady said.
UK teams up with energy company to seek better air quality
A University of Kentucky research center received a three-year, $1.5 million commitment Thursday from an energy company to study ways to reduce greenhouse gases. E.ON U.S., which owns and operates Louisville Gas and Electric Co., said it would team with UK to study technology to improve air quality.
UN Sees Major Shift to Bioenergy
Under the pressure of soaring oil prices and growing environmental constraints, momentum is gathering for a major international switch from fossil fuels to renewable bioenergy, according to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization.
US analyzing energy plans, against windfall profits tax-- Bodman
The Bush administration is looking at various Congressional proposals to lower gasoline prices to ensure that they would not have "unintended consequences" that could actually make the market conditions worse, US Energy Secretary Samuel Bodman said Friday in an interview with MSNBC.
US energy production from biomass may be limited by supply-- GAO
In a report unveiled at a House Forests and Forest Health subcommittee hearing, GAO said interviews with 13 users of biomass for energy production suggest that the supply of forest-byproducts from public lands is constrained despite the best efforts of land management agencies.
US House panel unveils new car fuel-economy proposal
The US House Energy and Commerce Committee Friday unveiled a "staff draft" of legislation to make it easier for the Department of Transportation to set passenger car fuel economy standards.
Utah leaders rally against proposed nuclear waste storage site
Utah Gov. Jon Huntsman and Sen. Orrin Hatch on Friday rallied public opposition to a proposed storage site for spent nuclear fuel on the Goshute Indian reservation, urging Utah residents to submit their comments to the U.S. Bureau of Land Management before the May 8 deadline.
Utility power prices rise 10.9% on year for large users-- Survey
Electricity prices in April 2006 for large customers were up 10.9% compared with the same period in 2005, according to a survey of 24 of the largest investor-owned utilities in the US by NUS Consulting Group.
UW scientists seek ways to store excess carbon
Researchers at the University of Wyoming are working with scientists in other Northern Plains and northwestern states to find uses for carbon dioxide gas given off when fossil fuels are burned for energy.
World Aware of Global Warming Threat
Many adults in 30 countries express concern about climate change, according to a poll by the Program on International Policy Attitudes. 65 per cent of respondents think global warming is a very serious problem, while 25 per cent call it somewhat serious.
for Current Events go to: Events
for Previous Months in 2006
for News of 2005 go to: News_2005
for News of 2004 go to: News of 2004
for Events of 2004 go to: Events of 2004
for News and Events of 2003 go to News and Events Archive 2003