News 2007:

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

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World CO2 since 1750 (cubic feet)

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December 28, 2007

Alaska gas pipe application decisions delayed until after Jan 1

Alaska Governor Sarah Palin will not release proposals the state has received to build a North Slope gas pipeline until after January 1. The state received five proposals..

An Unbiased Approach to Evaluating Transportation Fuels

Many of us want to know what we can do to make a difference. Yet with so much varying information about energy alternatives, it has become difficult to choose which technologies really make sense and which will be a waste of research dollars. We have become skeptical of anything that the so-called "experts" tell us — and rightly so as many of the experts have their own motives.

At Least 8 Clean Coal Plants Blocked

Clean coal-fired power plants have been touted as a remedy for an environmentally challenged age, offering the promise of turning cheap but dirty coal into a pollution-free energy source.

Don't turn off those wind turbines yet.

Betting on Batteries

Seeking to boost reliability in the short term and integrate wind-generated energy in the long term, American Electric Power is about to deploy several large-scale sodium sulfur batteries on its distribution grid.

Big Green-Big Blue-Big U

Big Green has been filling its scrapbook with reports of global conferences, movie star catharses as to global warming’s meaning, and clean tech investment reports shooting the moon. Big Green seeks to combat The Dark Force -- hydrocarbon fuel -- Big Black -- which simultaneously has the temerity to be rising in price in America, soaking our atmosphere with heat absorbing carbon emissions, and lobbying fiercely for market position. So, like every righteous movement before it in history, Big Green -- frustrated by lack of progress -- has turned to governmental power to overcome its adversaries.

Builder Cuts Down on Carbon Footprint

David Hall of Deltec Homes says his company doesn't believe in cutting corners when making its trademark round homes -- and that attention to detail extends to the electricity used to power the company's plant.

Chernobyl radwaste facilities to be completed in 2008

Radwaste management facilities at Chernobyl will be completed in 2008 and handed over to Ukraine under an amended funding agreement, a European Commission official said December 21.

Clean coal plants mired by cost and delays

Clean coal-fired plants offer a cleaner fuel source but construction costs and increased greenhouse gas standards in the United States hamper their production.

Commentary - Valuation, Attestation, and Litigation

We reckon less than half the $1 trillion in subprime structured assets has surfaced so far in the markdown process. And that figure is dwarfed by the outstanding short positions in corporate credit default swaps ("CDS"). Hold that thought...

County is taking its first green steps-- The new task force has a challenge ahead-- Just how much greenhouse gas is produced

Chester County is going green.

Deconstructing the Energy Bill

On Dec. 19, President George W. Bush signed into law the Energy Independence & Security Act of 2007, a bill that, among other things, raised fuel economy standards for the first time in 32 years and set a Renewable Fuel Standard that will mandate the use of renewable biofuels by energy producers. He defined it as "a significant step" towards energy independence. And indeed, it is progress if you compare it to this Administration's previous laissez-faire approach to fuel economy standards. But what of energy innovation?

Delegates announce pullout from U.S. treaties

Territorial sovereignty is not vested in individuals or groups of individuals, but in governments. Under international law, even governments aren't considered sovereign until recognized by another prior sovereign.

Department Of Energy Finalizes Regulations To Increase Energy Efficiency In New Federal Buildings By 30%

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today announced it has established regulations that require new Federal buildings to achieve at least 30% greater energy efficiency over prevailing building codes.

Doe Releases Filing Instructions For Federal Risk Insurance For New Nuclear Power Plants

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today released instructions for companies building new nuclear power plants in the United States to enter into a Conditional Agreement with DOE to qualify for a portion of the $2 billion in federal risk insurance.

Electric Power, Water and Drought

Changing weather patterns have resulted in flooding in some parts of the world and drought in parts that include regions in the United States and Canada. Several plans have been devised over many years to transport water from regions of excess supply to regions that need water.

Energy bill would juice area hydroelectric plants

The state Senate has approved renewable energy legislation to upgrade the classification of two hydroelectric power plants in the region, making it more desirable for power company suppliers to buy the energy those projects produce.

Energy Northwest ditches project to bury emissions

Energy Northwest is abandoning plans to consider injecting some carbon dioxide emissions underground at its proposed Pacific Mountain Energy Center near Kalama.

Florida proposes ethanol blending rule; industry seeks changes

The oil industry's major concern is that the rulemaking creates the likelihood that a boutique gasoline will be needed to meet state standards for ethanol blends in gasoline for sale during the summertime.

For Climate Change Mitigation, Don’t Forget the Peatlands

Protecting peatland areas can be a cost-effective way to reduce as much as 10 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, according to a new report launched December 11 in Bali, Indonesia. “Just like a global phaseout of old, energy-guzzling light bulbs or a switch to hybrid cars, protecting and restoring peatlands is perhaps another key ”˜low hanging fruit’...for climate change mitigation,”...

For Khosla, the Future of Green Tech is Now

One of the USA's richest men, Khosla is sitting in a sparsely furnished conference room in a blue pullover and blue slacks. He sips tea as he describes how his children view his rising passion for renewable energy.

Future is geothermal

Geothermal energy is still in its infancy in Australia, however interest in the renewable energy source is growing. Geodynamics, Panax Geothermal and Petratherm are leading the way in Australia, and are hopeful that the hot rock technology will be a success.

German Investments in Clean Alternative Energy Pay Off

With virtually no oil or natural gas resources of its own, Germany relies on Russia for 20 percent of its oil and one-third of its gas imports. But with Russia displaying a willingness to use oil as a political weapon, Germany is placing new emphasis on achieving energy independence - especially by developing alternative energy sources.

'Green' buildings appeal to modern homeowners

When Mary Frances Callis went hunting for her first home, buying "green" was a no-brainer.

But the selection of certified environmentally sound condos in the price range of a young lawyer was limited.

Green Power Inc. Announces Successful Demonstration of Waste-to-Fuel Technology Creating NanoDiesel

“We really can convert regular household waste, medical waste, anything that is not radioactive, metal, glass or porcelain, into diesel fuel,” said Michael Spitzauer, CEO of Green Power, Inc.

Iran to Seek Bids for 19 Atomic Power Plants - MP

Iran will soon announce an international tender for building 19 nuclear power plants, an MP was quoted as saying, a week after Russia said it had begun fuel deliveries to the Islamic state's first such facility.

Is vertical tower next breakthrough in wind power?

The three blades of a traditional 120-foot wind turbine stood nearly still.

But a few yards away, Adam Fuller's 36-foot wind tower turned silently in the breeze. The only sound came from a small chain around a sprocket--no louder than a bicycle.

Japan eyeing national targets for emissions cuts from 2013

Japan is considering pursuing tougher numerical targets for national emissions cuts in an international pact to fight global warming after the current Kyoto Protocol expires in 2012, Japanese government sources said Thursday.

Kansai Electric to Outsource Uranium Processing to Kazakhstan

Japan's Kansai Electric Power Co. will outsource uranium reconversion, a process to convert enriched uranium gas into solid uranium for use in nuclear power plants, to Kazakh state-run nuclear energy firm Kazatomprom, it was learned Wednesday.

Lack of lights dims holiday-- Tulsans still without power will be left to wait, although some electricians will work during the day

Christmas 2007 will be especially memorable for Tulsans who are still in the dark two weeks after an ice storm hit the area.

Leading Scientists and Thinkers on Energy – Dr. Thomas Valone

Facing and solving the multiple issues concerning energy is the single most pressing problem that we face as a species. There is a lot of media coverage about energy, alternative energy and global warming, but what has been missing is the knowledge and point of view of scientists, at least in the main stream media.

Los Angeles County to require 'green' buildings

Los Angeles County is in the process of requiring new buildings to be environmentally friendly, officials said.

Milford officials propose wind power

One energy source the city seems to have an ample supply of is wind, and some city officials want to turn wind-speed knots into kilowatts.

Miniature concentrating photovoltaic unit

DiSP's  unique concept in solar energy is a miniature concentrating photovoltaic (MCPV) unit that increases efficiency to 79% by capturing and transforming the sun's heat as well.

More Virginians are going 'green'-- Use of energy-saving techniques, policies is growing in state

Ralph "Abe" Lincoln has enlisted his delivery business, Richmond Express, in the Green Revolution.

He is not alone. Last year, the idea of going "green" began to catch on with more and more Virginians.
 

National energy bill looks to new industries for production reform

The biofuels target supports doubling the use of ethanol, a corn byproduct, as motor fuel; but it lays a still heavier emphasis on biofuels produced from new technology.

New energy efficiency act calls for many changes

Consumers may not feel an immediate impact, but an energy act signed into law last week could signal long-term changes in the cars we drive, the auto fuels we pump and the appliances we use every day.

New fortunes in the wind-- Economics advance state's new energy resource

Every day, thousands of motorists on Interstate 70 drive by a new sight in the Smoky Hills.

Dozens of white poles, standing more than 250 feet tall, with giant propeller-like blades at the top, appear on the horizon about 25 miles west of Salina.

Nuclear Issue Heats Up in N.B. As Debate Begins on Proposed New Reactor

New Brunswick is hoping to become a significant player in the energy game of the future, but critics say it's playing the wrong card.

Nuclear power has new shape-- Proposed reactor at Calvert Cliffs would recycle water, draw 98pct less from bay

A doughnut-shaped building that looks like a sports arena may soon rise beside the Chesapeake Bay -- a cooling tower for a huge new nuclear reactor proposed at the Calvert Cliffs power plant in Southern Maryland.

NYMEX crude opens 73 cents higher as US dollar drops

February crude futures on NYMEX opened 73 cents higher at $96.65/barrel
Thursday as the US dollar extended a two-week slide on weak durable goods and
the assassination of Pakistani opposition leader Benazir Bhutto.

Outages Drop Bit By Bit

About 300 more homes have power restored, with an additional 100 anticipated by this morning.

The number of Tulsa homes without power continued to shrink Sunday as about 300 more residences had electricity restored...

Platinum soars to a record high of $1,549.00 /oz

Platinum prices have soared to new heights on NYMEX Wednesday in a new
wave of investor buying, after making new records almost every day last week
to close out the week at a record $1,536.30/oz on December 21.

Portland slows down on green

It was a bombshell to Portland homebuilders when city officials announced at a Chicago conference last month that every new building in the city would be taxed unless it reached a higher level of energy efficiency.

Put biodiversity at centre of climate debate

A fascinating picture has emerged from a unique survey of 1,000 climate decision-makers and influencers from across 105 countries conducted by GlobeScan, the World Conservation Union (IUCN) and the World Bank in the two weeks leading up to the Bali Climate Conference.

South Korea Seizes Tanker Involved in Oil Spill

A South Korean government-affiliated pollution agency seized a Hong Kong-registered tanker involved in the country's worst oil spill in order to force its owners to pay for the clean-up, an official said on Wednesday.

South Korea's president-elect to focus on energy sector overhaul

South Korea is set to crank up the overhaul of its energy sector in 2008 under a new president who has made privatizing state-owned energy companies and securing massive investments to ensure stable oil supplies his top priorities.

Tech Could Reduce Coal Facilities' Emissions

From the top of a hill here in coal country, you can see distant swells of smoke curling up from coal-fired power plants along the flat horizon. Even here, in a town of only 348 residents, a small coal plant has operated off and on since World War II.

But that plant might soon be replaced by a new kind of coal plant...

The top 10 Oil Stories-- the results are in

The winner was no surprise: Oil soars, reaches close to $100 for WTI. But what was right behind it was instructive in in the way responders reacted to the various choices put before them.

Traditional medicine plants disappearing as demand rises

A dwindling supply of wild medicinal plants is threatening South Africa's traditional medicine industry, according to new research.

Undiplomatic language

International diplomacy isn't always a pretty thing. From time to time the delicate phraseology and finely nuanced language are swept away in the heat of the moment, and unutterable truths are uttered.

US spending bill calls for EPA to craft GHG-reporting registry

A provision in the omnibus spending bill that the US Congress passed last week and signed Wednesday by President George W. Bush requires the federal Environmental Protection Agency to develop a "registry" for oil refineries and other industrial facilities to use in reporting their emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases that are blamed for global warming.

Virginia coal production down by nearly 4.4 percent this year compared with 2006

The latest figures from the federal Energy Information Administration shows that Virginia coal production this year is down by nearly 4.4 percent when compared with 2006 figures.

Wall Street futures mixed; eyes on oil data

Futures on two of the three leading stock market indexes fell before the start of Wall Street trading on Thursday, with the focus on economic and oil inventory data as no S&P 500 firms are due to report results.

Wind farm plans worry neighbors

When Kevin and Lynda Kawula first heard about a wind farm proposal for Magnolia Township, they thought it sounded like a good idea.

But as they attended meetings and researched the issue, their opinions changed.

Year-end spot price remains at $90 lb U308

The spot price of uranium remained at $90 a pound U3O8, despite a flurry of year-end activity, according to both TradeTech and Ux Consulting.

December 24, 2007

Amazon Deforestation Set to Soar

Amazon deforestation set to soar.  Reacting to increasing Amazonian deforestation in recent months, Brazil has banned the sale of farm products from illegally deforested areas in the Amazon. It should be noted deforestation rates do not include rainforest diminishment caused by industrial first time logging and other activities that may leave some trees, but effectively destroy ancient rainforest ecosystems and release much of their carbon.

Baby boomers see benefit of buying green

Baby boomers and older citizens are increasingly "socially conscious" consumers who consider the environmental impact of products they purchase, according to a recent study conducted by AARP and research firm Focalyst.

California will sue within three weeks over EPA waiver decision

California will sue the US government within three weeks over the Environmental Protection Agency's refusal to allow the state to control greenhouse gas emissions from motor vehicles, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger reiterated Thursday.

China to support biofuel projects from non-food products

Beijing will provide financial support to biofuel producers, including farmers, if they are to be made from non-food crops such as agricultural waste, sorghum or cassava.

China's new energy law to focus on emissions reduction

Emissions reduction will be a focal point of an energy law being created in China as part of the country's efforts to address climate change in an effective manner.

Coal-gasification element stripped from Kalama plan

Richland-based Energy Northwest will push forward with a 793-megawatt power plant at the Port of Kalama, despite a major setback with state regulators last month.

Colombia could operate some 20 biofuel plants in 10 years

Nearly 20 biofuel plants could be operating in Colombia within 10 years, the country's hydrocarbons director Julio Cesar Vera told in Medellin, Colombia.

Congress to Scrutinize EPA Calif. Decision - Pelosi

The US Congress will closely examine the Environmental Protection Agency's decision to deny California's request to regulate carbon dioxide emissions from vehicles, the Speaker of the US House of Representatives said Friday.

Cuba invites Russian firms to pump oil in Gulf of Mexico

Cuban Deputy Foreign Minister Eumelio Caballero invited Russian companies to take part in prospecting for crude oil deposits in the Gulf of Mexico. Caballero told that Cuba already had signed contracts with companies from Spain, Norway, Venezuela and China who will participate in the exploration and exploitation of petroleum deposits in the Cuban economic zone in the Gulf.

Energy Agency Sets New Course

The Energy Policy Act of 2005, Joe Kelliher likes to say, marked the largest grant of regulatory power to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission in 70 years.

EPA Authorizes Critical Uses of Methyl Bromide for 2008

In accordance with the Clean Air Act and Montreal Protocol, EPA has issued final methyl bromide production and import critical use exemptions for 2008. EPA also authorized uses that qualify for the 2008 critical use exemption.

EPA Promotes Recycling Materials Into Fuel

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is promoting the recycling of certain petroleum secondary materials into fuel.

Florida Rules Could Open Vast Ethanol Market

Florida published new proposed motor fuel rules Friday that could lead to wider ethanol blending in the country's third largest gasoline market.

Harjo-- 2007 Mantle of Shame Awards

The White House and Congress - for not enacting a cause of action to defend Native American sacred places. The Forest Service and Justice share a special place for supporting ''yellow'' snow on the San Francisco Peaks and opposing tribal traditions there.

Inquiry into a Proposed 137- Mile Powerline Has Revealed a Huge Contrast in the Legal Costs of Both Sides

While the appeal costs to applicants is said to run to GBP7m - a sum which can largely be recouped from energy regulators - the cost of the campaign by residents around Stirling alone has reached GBP50,000, a sum which has been raised through race nights and minimum GBP2 donations to the "begging bowl".

Iran stops carrying out its oil transactions in dollars

"At the moment, selling oil in dollars has been completely halted, in line with the policy of selling crude in non-dollar currencies," Nozari was quoted as saying. "The dollar is an unreliable currency, considering its devaluation and the oil exporters' losses," he added.

Middle East explores use of alternative and renewable energies

Countries in the Middle East are actively exploring the use of alternative and renewable energy resources including coal, nuclear, solar, wind and hydrogen in a bid to meet rising power demands according to an industry expert.

Nano flakes for 'future solar cells' that have the potential to convert up to 30% of the solar energy into electricity, twice the current average

SunFlake  has discovered a new material known as nano flakes for "future solar cells" that have the potential to convert up to 30% of the solar energy into electricity, twice the current average.

Offshore wind to power every British home by 2020

Within the next 12 years, the seas of Britain could have enough wind farms to power every one of the country's 25 mm homes.

Only 25% of Africans have electricity

One of the most significant factors challenging Africa’s economic growth and productivity is inadequate access to energy.

OPEC keeps output steady

Iran's prediction came true as OPEC decided to keep oil supplies unchanged.
"Market is saturated with oil and I think the meeting ends with making the decision to keep output steady," Iran's oil Minister Gholam-Hossein Nozari

Pacifying the public

The Cave Hills and Slim Buttes area exhibits some of the most unique and beautiful landscapes in the state. This area also was used extensively in the 1960s for uranium mining ... open-pit uranium mining.

Probably after more than 40 years of allowing these radioactive contaminants to harm the environment, including the human beings downwind and downstream, then it seems to be ''non-time critical.''

Positive spin for wind turbine in Hollis; not so elsewhere

It's a nice change to see the electricity meter spin the wrong way.

On windy days, that's exactly what Hollis resident Carroll Spaulding's meter does, thanks to the 50-foot, freestanding wind turbine next to his Bell Lane home.

Power Restored; Many Remain in Dark

Public Service Company of Oklahoma said Friday it had restored power to all customers who can receive it safely in the wake of a devastating ice storm last week.

Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 122407

The geomagnetic field was mostly quiet. Solar wind speed slowly declined through the period, with values around 475 km/s at forecast issue time.

Sandia’s Sunshine to Petrol project seeks fuel from thin air

Sandia National Laboratory has demonstrated proof of principle and is building a prototype reactor for recycling carbon dioxide into a liquid fuel. S2P, "Sunshine to Petrol", has not been pursued with much vigor before, as experts thought it was technically or economically unviable.

South Korea Seeks Arrests in its Worst Oil Spill

South Korea's coastguard has applied for court permission to arrest the captains of the vessels that collided in early December causing the country's worst oil spill, an official said on Friday.

Study reveals US energy efficiency fails to cut consumption

American consumers are driving bigger gas-guzzling cars and buying more air conditioners and refrigerators as the overall energy efficiency of such products improves, a report found. In what the study calls "the efficiency paradox," consumers have taken money saved from greater energy efficiency and spent it on more and bigger appliances and vehicles, consuming even more energy in the process.

The energy ties that bring Turkey and Iran together

One casualty of the Bush administration's ambiguous attempts to mollify Turkey over the issue of clamping down on Kurdish insurgents in northern Iraq may well be Washington's larger agenda of isolating Iran.

Uganda's President Revives Plan to Axe Rainforest

Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni on Friday revived a controversial plan to hand over a swathe of rainforest to a local company to be destroyed and replaced with a sugarcane plantation.

UN Sees No Climate Change Solution Without US

The United States will suffer from global warming along with other nations if there is no broader agreement on cutting carbon emissions, the United Nations environment chief Achim Steiner said.

US could cut GHG emissions up to 50% at manageable cost

The US could reduce projected 2030 emissions of greenhouse gases by one-third to one-half at a "manageable" cost to the economy and without requiring big changes in consumer lifestyles, according to a report issued by management consultant McKinsey & Company and The Conference Board, a business research organization.

US Ethanol Producers Covet Existing Oil Pipelines

The burgeoning US ethanol industry is looking longingly at existing oil product pipelines for transporting the alternative fuel, an idea almost unthinkable a few years ago because of contamination fears.

USGS and NPD cooperate in Arctic study

The Norwegian Petroleum Directorate (NPD) has been visited by geologists from the US Geological Survey (USGS) for the purpose of discussing methods to calculate petroleum resources in the Arctic Zone.

Warm Winter to Help Americans With Heating Bills

Forecasts for a warm winter may spell relief for households and businesses in the US Northeast dealing with record high heating oil prices.

What's Moving the Oil Markets 122407

•"It has been very quiet so far today," said a London-based trader. "It has hit a range--a very choppy one--but it is still a range. The market has been very thin so far."

Zimbabwe should harness solar energy for widespread use

Zimbabwe experiences more sunshine than most countries and there is much potential to harness solar energy for widespread use.
The country hosted the World Solar Summit in 1998, and it is in that year that there were widespread campaigns to educate people about the importance of harnessing solar power.

December 21, 2007

A Snapshot of the U.S. Wind Industry

At a recent Capitol Hill hearing I was surprised to learn that it was far from common knowledge just how competitive wind power has become.

Alaska governor signs bill raising oil, gas production tax

Palin pushed the new tax legislation because she felt the state wasn't getting enough income from oil production at current high prices.

Bill could affect state's permit process for coal plants-- Congressional bill could force changes in how Texas sanctions new power plants

A bill moving through Congress could force Texas to consider the impact of new coal-fired power plants on smog in North and Central Texas, an analysis that state regulators have insisted they don't have to perform.

Browns Ferry repair costs $90 million above budget

The repair and upgrade of TVA's oldest nuclear reactor ended up costing $90 million more than originally budgeted, and so far the unit has operated at less than its forecasted long-term reliability, according to TVA documents filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission last week.

Bush says more nuclear power key to US GHG emission reductions

President Bush on Thursday said he is "amazed" the US is not more "robust" in its support of nuclear power, and called the technology the "best solution" for ensuring continued economic growth while cutting greenhouse gas emissions.

China reels from worst drought in a decade

China is suffering its worst drought in a decade, which has left millions of people short of drinking water and has shrunk reservoirs and rivers, state media said on Friday.

China Says US Must do More on Climate Change

China is glad a climate change roadmap agreed last week in Bali has drawn the United States to the negotiating table, but the world's only superpower must do more to tackle global warming, a top official said on Thursday.

City taps power from waste stream

If one person's trash is another's treasure, then Columbia has found a way to cash in.

Climate bill with CO2 cap to hit US Senate floor early '08-- Boxer

Legislation to cap greenhouse gas emissions from electric utilities and other sources by 70% compared with 2005 levels will come before the US Senate in the first half of 2008, Senate Environment and Public Works Committee Chairman Barbara Boxer said Tuesday.

Crude could hit $130b in 2008 on supply disruption-- IEEJ analyst

Benchmark light sweet crude futures on the New York Mercantile Exchange could hit as much as $120-130/barrel in 2008 if there are supply disruptions from major exporters such as Iran and Iraq, a senior Japanese energy industry analyst said Wednesday.

Crude futures up on bullish US stock data as activity lightens

Global crude futures moved higher Thursday in a continuation of the bullish reaction to Wednesday's US crude and product stock data.

Duke explores solar site in S.C.

Duke Energy Corp. is in negotiations with BMW Manufacturing Co. to build a solar energy plant at the car company's Spartanburg facility -- an unusual partnership to develop renewable energy and possibly share costs.

It might be a sign of the future.

Duke sues Mooresville over water intake work--- Utility claims license gives it control; town says intake is on its property

Duke Energy is taking Mooresville to court in a squabble over who controls the water in Lake Norman and whether the town's water rights trump those of the region.

Town officials say the water belongs to citizens, not a for-profit company, and that they have the right to modify a water intake on town-owned property.

Economists-- extreme cold weather costly, deadly

Fatalities in the continental United States tend to climb for several weeks after severe cold spells, ultimately numbering 360 per chilly day and 14,380 per year, according to a new study co-authored by a University of California, Berkeley, economist.

Energy Department Awards $66.7 Million for Large-Scale Carbon Sequestration Project

...will conduct large volume tests in the Illinois Basin to demonstrate the ability of a geologic formation to safely, permanently, and economically store more than one million tons of carbon dioxide (CO2).

Energy Department Slows Down Coal-Energy Project

Just hours after Illinois won a national competition for a cutting-edge clean coal project, the Department of Energy on Tuesday cautioned that costs were getting out of hand and it wasn't ready to sign off on the $1.8 billion FutureGen power plant.

Energy in Washington-- Licking our Wounds for Another Fight

Everyone in the renewable energy community tried to put a good face on it, but let's face it -- we have a second recent Energy Bill with little support for renewable energy and energy efficiency.

Energy should top issues for US presidential candidates-- senator

Warning the US faces an "intolerable" situation over energy security, the top Republican on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee Tuesday said energy and the environment should be the top issues for candidates for president in the 2008 election and should continue to receive urgent attention from whoever succeeds President Bush.

Financing PV - the fundamentals

In the first of a 2-part column, renewable energy focus looks at the murky waters that need to be navigated when structuring and financing a PV project.

First Nations Power-Up

Hundreds of different groups of native peoples, known as First Nations, live throughout BC, with most of them tracing their heritage back two to three thousand years.

"These projects are not only bringing revenue, but pride, capacity, and hope, to a community that had absolutely nothing 10 years ago."

Foundations of Bali Climate Change Policy Condemned by 100+ Experts

An open letter to the United Nations Secretary-General, issued during the recently concluded climate change conference in Bali, characterizes attempts to prevent global climate change as "futile" and "a tragic misallocation of resources that would be better spent on humanity's real and pressing problems."

FutureGen important to country no matter where plant sited

Illinois Basin coal has a high-sulfur content ranging between 2.5% to above 6%. It can be costly for utilities to burn and trap emissions as they work to comply with low-sulfur emission regulations.

Giving the Environmental Workforce of Tomorrow a Green Light

To ensure a healthy future for all Americans, EPA is off and running in the race to develop a well-trained and diverse environmental workforce.

Global solar PV market estimated at 2.3 GWp in 2007

The European Photovoltaic Industry Association (EPIA) reports that the global PV market grew by over 40% this year, with approximately 2.3 GW of newly installed capacity.

Heating up the EU biomass market

The European Biomass Association’s (AEBIOM) new European Biomass Statistics 2007 report offers a comprehensive analysis of the current bioenergy situation in the EU 27 member states.

Ice Storms and Openworld

Wintry times such as we have seen this December drive home the need for improved outage response. Utilities in Oklahoma, Kansas, Illinois, Iowa, and Missouri are still dealing with outages due to widespread ice storms, at one time affecting more than 500,000 customers.

Illinois to be home of clean coal-fired plant

The $1.5 billion, 275 megawatt Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle coal-fired power plant will have near-zero emissions and test carbon sequestration technology.

Inbox 122007

Everywhere I go these days, I'm seeing green. It's "see green, save green" at the local grocery chain, "green" programs in my natural gas bill, even "green" billing advantages on my bank statement.

Indonesia Tries to Stop Oil Spill From Tanker

Rescuers in Indonesia were trying to prevent an oil leak on Wednesday after a tanker overturned at a port in the country's second-largest city of Surabaya, a port official said on Wednesday.  The tanker, with a capacity of 500,000 litres, capsized on Tuesday while being loaded with fuel oil...

Iowa Survey-- Coal-Fired Power Plant Freeze Favored By Two-Thirds of Most Likely Caucus Goers, Other State Residents

Sending a clear message to state officials and presidential candidates, nearly four out of five Iowans (79 percent) -- including 69 percent of Republicans, 86 percent of Democrats and 79 percent of Independents -- think that "Iowa should focus on increased (energy) conservation steps and more fuel efficiency to reduce demand for electricity before it constructs new coal-fired power plants,"

Johnson denies California clean car law

By denying California its long-sought, tailpipe emissions waiver, EPA Administrator Stephen Johnson allowed the energy bill´s new national fuel economy standard to trump states´ attempts to set the miles-per-gallon bar even higher.

Jumpstarting Solar Power

Solar energy is getting a jumpstart. Energy suppliers scattered throughout the Southwest have asked bidders to submit proposals to build a 250 megawatt solar power project.

Methanol-to-Gasoline (MTG) for Coal-to-Liquids Project

The project will gasify the coal, convert the synthetic gas to methanol, and then convert the methanol to gasoline via the MTG process

No Power for 10th Day for Some in Plains

Huddled near her fireplace, Marla Carter wondered when Skiatook will be mentioned in news reports about the storm-related power outages that have left her without electricity for the past 10 days.

North Americas First Affordable Full-Speed EV

The Zotye - North Americas First Affordable Full-Speed EV !

Northwest natural gas demand will grow 1.9% through 2012-- NWGA

The need for energy to fuel electric generators and support population growth will boost the demand for natural gas across Idaho, Oregon, Washington and British Columbia by 1.9% per year, or 7.8% overall, through 2012, according to a study issued Wednesday by the Northwest Gas Association.

Nuclear provisions in climate bill rejected, but could return next year

A Senate panel rejected in early December as part of a climate change bill numerous nuclear-related provisions, including eliminating NRC mandatory hearings on uncontested nuclear plant license applications. But many of the proposals could be reintroduced when the bill comes to the Senate floor for debate next year.

Nuke plant developer will meet with public

Idahoans will get their first chance Thursday to learn first-hand about a nuclear power plant proposed in Payette County.

The meeting comes as the debate over who should decide if or where a power plant should be built in Idaho continues.

Oil and Gas Company Credit Metrics Expected to Remain Strong Despite Increasing Challenges

Fitch Ratings' outlook for US and EMEA oil and gas industry issuers remains strong due to the impact of high commodity prices and a tight supply/demand balance. However, Fitch notes that significant challenges face the industry in the form of cost inflation (including high drilling costs), commodity price volatility, and for majors, resource access and reserve replacement issues.

Paulson Analyzes the Current US Housing Market

The following is a speech by Secretary Henry Paulson, before the Housing Townhall Meeting at the East Orange Community Center in Orlando.

Pipe bomb posed no 'credible threat' to Palo Verde nuke-- APS

A pipe bomb found in early November in the bed of a Palo Verde nuclear plant worker's pickup truck posed "no credible" threat to the three-reactor station...

President Bush signs wide-ranging energy legislation into law

President Bush on Wednesday signed into law a broad energy bill that would, among other things, require the use of 36 billion gallons of renewable fuel by 2022 and boost automotive fuel efficiency standards 40% by 2020.

Progress pursues biomass, not coal, to fuel needed capacity

Progress Energy Florida expects to have three power plants totaling 280 MW of capacity online during 2011, and it is estimating that the three units will avoid the need to burn 19 million short tons of coal over the lives of the utility's power contracts.

Reid calls for solar power plant at site of closed station

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid on Monday called on the majority owner of the closed Mohave Generating Station in Laughlin to use the site for a solar power plant.

Renewable Energy Growth Boosted in New 'Annual Energy Outlook'

DOE's Energy Information Administration (EIA) is now projecting renewable energy to experience 23% faster growth between now and 2030 than previously anticipated.

Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 122007

The geomagnetic field ranged from quiet to active levels due to a coronal hole high speed stream. The solar wind velocity observed at ACE reached a maximum of around 745 km/s at 20/1733Z. As of forecast issue time, the solar wind remains elevated with values around 670-700 km/s.

Sharp to Spend Y100 Bln on Solar Cell Plant - Nikkei

Sharp Corp will spend close to 100 billion yen (US$882.9 million) to build the world's largest solar cell factory in Japan, Chairman Katsuhiko Machida was quoted by the Nikkei business daily as saying.

Sparks flying over Pa.'s energy future-- With Gov. Rendell and Senate Republicans $200 million apart, the biofuels-and-conservation effort is lagging

While energy is a leading national issue, and congressional approval of a major energy-conservation package appears imminent, Pennsylvania's energy initiative is bogged down in political and philosophical disputes.

Sponsor of California renewable energy ballot plan is optimistic

A former San Francisco Supervisor who is spearheading a proposed California ballot measure that would require all electric utilities in the state to derive 50% if their electricity from renewable resources by 2025 said on Tuesday that he believes investor-owned utilities can be convinced to support the initiative.

Spot gold in Hong Kong inches lower on firmer US dollar

The spot price of gold in Hong Kong opened slightly lower on Thursday at $800.50-801.00/oz, down from Wednesday's close of $802.60-803.10/oz. Local traders said gold prices in Asia continued to move within a tight range...

Spot uranium price falls to $90 pound, reporting firms say

The spot price of uranium dropped to $90/pound U3O8, based on lower offer prices by one and possibly several sellers looking to move material within the next 30 days, market analysts said.

Sun power on tap-- Scientists seek to channel solar energy and hold it in reserve, so air conditioners won't sputter during evenings or rainy days

There is a shadow over the bright future of solar power in Arizona, cast by the clouds that blanket our metropolitan areas when our demand for electricity is greatest.

SunEdison Activates Largest U.S. Photovoltaic Power Plant for Xcel Energy

SunEdison, North America's largest solar energy services provider, announced that the 8.22-megawatt Alamosa, Colo., photovoltaic (PV) solar plant was activated today, ahead of its scheduled completion date. It is the largest solar PV plant in the United States supporting substation loads for a major public utility.

The 2008 Utility Forecast

The economic climate facing utilities in 2008 is mild. That's the general forecast from the two leading ratings agencies, which say that the troubles facing the housing and banking sectors are less problematic for power companies that are more defensive.

Thousands Lack Power Days After Storm

More than 90,000 homes and businesses remained without power Monday, more than a week after an ice storm battered Oklahoma, and the emergency has outlasted the ability of many residents to pay for it.

Two wind projects are set for takeoff

In Dakota County, two wind turbines are expected to go online this week -- a symbolic first step, say county officials, toward generating "green" energy across the metro.

U.S. homeowner tax credit to expire

U.S. homeowners have just one week left to take advantage of the federal tax credit aimed at encouraging home energy efficiency.

U.S. politicians yield at Bali climate talks

Congressional Democrats and at least one Republican are relieved U.S. negotiators finally yielded at the just-concluded United Nations climate talks -- even though the reversal came at the eleventh hour.

US BLM plans to open 1.9 million acres to oil shale development

The US Bureau of Land Management plans to devote 1.9 million acres of public land for possible commercial oil shale development leasing, the agency announced Thursday.

US Tax Credit Expiry Endangers Wind, Solar Expansion

Growth of a nascent US industry to build and install clean energy sources, like windmills and solar cells, could be stunted if Congress doesn't extend tax incentives set to expire next year, industry officials and lawmakers said Wednesday.

US Weather Commentary 122007

Rumor/Myth/Story #1: Winter is Over.

W.R. Grace to Pay Toward Cleanup of Hazardous Waste Sites

"Bankruptcy is not a safe haven to avoid environmental responsibilities," said Catherine McCabe, principal deputy assistant administrator for EPA's Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. "EPA will keep pursuing companies who pollute the environment."

What is geo-pressure?

A tiny bit of science; natural gas emerges from the ground under intense pressure and this pressure helps to drive the gas through the distribution network. Before the gas can be safely decentralised to consumers, the gas pressure must be reduced using a pressure reduction station (PRS).

What's Moving the Oil Markets 122107

•Western crude oil benchmarks have been trading in an increasingly tighter range as the week has progressed. The highest daily range this week was on Tuesday, when the front-month ICE Brent contract traded over a range of $3.56/b. In mid-morning European trading on December 21, the range was down to 54 cents.

•"It has been very quiet so far today," said a London-based trader.

Wind Picks Up in Michigan As More Farmers Plant Turbines

At a time when most people choose to avoid the harsh winter winds that roar past corn stubble and whip up billowing dust clouds over table-flat fields, farmers in the Thumb of Michigan now talk about catching the wind and all the money that comes with it.

Xcel Energy to reduce emissions by 22%

The plan, which covers 2008 through 2022, calls for reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 22 percent from 2005 levels by 2020. It also outlines Xcel’s strategy to meeting the state’s mandate to supply 30 percent of its customers’ electricity with renewable resources by 2020.

December 18, 2007

After Praise for Bali Climate Deal-- The Hard Part

A "historic" Bali deal. A "Berlin Wall" dividing rich and poor nations on global warming policy falls. A "new chapter" for Washington after six years of climate disputes with many of its allies.

And now comes the hard part.

Biofuels-- Carbon dioxide oozes from damaged peatlands in Indonesia

Viewed from the air, the vast, cool forests of the Kampar peninsula on Indonesia's Sumatra island are a world away from China's belching factories or America's clogged freeways. But appearances can be deceptive.

Bush says US needs to encourage refinery expansion, new plants

US President George W. Bush on Monday said the country needs to encourage the construction of new refineries and the expansion of existing plants in order to ensure adequate supplies of gasoline until the nation can shift comfortably to alternative fuels.

Business Optimism Index Drops Again

The survey reveals that while overall optimism for individual company growth remains high at 73 percent (17 percent are “very optimistic” and 55 percent are “somewhat optimistic”), the number of pessimistic business leaders continues to rise.

Can the UK harness the power of ocean waves for energy?

Denmark generates a fifth of its electricity from wind power, Germany is a global leader in solar technology and Iceland heats huge numbers of homes with geothermal energy.

Central Banks Make Ultimately Ineffective Decision

It seems that the world's major central bankers are not as immune from the influences of the press as we initially thought. They are slowly becoming no different from those same politicians that they have for many years looked down at and accused of sacrificing long-term economic stability simply to appease the press.

China must cut emissions to slow global warming

China must cut greenhouse gas emissions to slow global warming, even as the world's fourth largest economy tries to maintain fast economic growth, a senior climate official said.

China Says Glaciers Shrink by up to 18%

High altitude glaciers in China's remote west have shrunk by up to 18 percent over the last five years due to global warming, state media said on Friday, citing preliminary results from an on-going survey.

China Says Global Warming Will Strain Water Limits

China will have exploited all available water supplies to the limit by 2030, the government has warned, ordering officials to prepare for worse to come as global warming and economic expansion drain lakes and rivers.
 

China Stops 13 Small Power Plants to Save Energy, Cut Pollution

China's top economic planning agency has revoked approvals for 13 small coal-fired power plants in six provinces amid efforts to boost energy efficiency and reduce pollution.

Climate Change and Clean Water

Global climate change and overpopulation are combining to threaten fresh water supplies. To avert vast shortages, scientists are trying new ways to desalt seawater to bring clean drinking supplies to communities all over the world.

Coal for the Governor Environmental Groups Protest Daniels' Support for New Power Plant

Chanting "No more coal," a group of sign-waving environmentalists demonstrated at the Statehouse on Thursday to protest state approval of Duke Energy's new power-generating plant.

Coal Likely to Boost US 2007 Carbon Emissions

US emissions of the main greenhouse gas carbon dioxide will likely rise this year as power plants turn to cheap and plentiful coal, which could add pressure on the government to regulate the gases scientists blame for global warming.

Congress' spending bill would offer nuclear plant loan guarantees

A fiscal 2008 catch-all spending bill Congress made public late Sunday would offer loan guarantees for new nuclear power plants, but cut funding for US Department of Energy programs to help deal with spent nuclear fuel.

Crude lower on stronger US dollar despite weather-related support

Global crude futures retreated slightly during European morning trading on Monday from Friday's settlements, though remaining well above $90/barrel.

Darkness is lifting-- Most schools are open, outages dropping

One week after one of the most devastating ice storms in state history, electrical companies continued to restore power -- aided by the weather, finally.

Energy bill shrinks, but passes in Senate

A slightly atrophied but still-muscular energy bill finally breezed through the Senate Dec. 13 -- but only after Democrats reluctantly agreed to denude it of two of its bolder initiatives.

Ethanol, touted as an option to oil, turns out be hot air

Ethanol, the centrepiece of President George W. Bush's plan to wean the United States from oil, is 2007's worst energy investment.
The corn-based fuel tumbled 57 % from last year's record of $ 4.33 a gallon and drove crop prices to a 10-year high.

FACTBOX- US Presidential Candidates on Climate Change

Here's what leading US presidential candidates have said about climate change, and what they want to do about it.

Farm bill includes chicken-waste-to-energy measure

The $286 billion version of the farm bill that passed the Senate 79-14 Friday includes a provision to generate power with chicken droppings.

Giving the Environmental Workforce of Tomorrow a Green Light

To ensure a healthy future for all Americans, EPA is off and running in the race to develop a well-trained and diverse environmental workforce.

Great Lakes coal shipments 'terrible' in Dec. due to low water

Low water levels on the Great Lakes have severely impacted the ability of vessels to move coal in December, a spokesman for the Lake Carriers' Association said Thursday.

High and Low Points of Bali Climate Talks

UN-led climate change talks in Bali finally agreed on Saturday to launch negotiations on a new pact to fight global warming, after a last-minute US reversal allowed a breakthrough.

How to Calculate Your Carbon Emissions

You’ve heard of global warming and carbon offsets, but have you ever wondered about the connection and what you can do about it?

Inbox 121807

Drama in Bali: News accounts of this past weekend´s wrap-up of the two-week U.N. climate talks in Bali, Indonesia, make interesting reading, to say the least.

Mexico, US Suffer as Rio Grande Sucked Dry

While farmers and lawmakers in arid northern Mexico seek to challenge the water payment in an international court, the farmers' plight is a symptom of a much bigger problem: the Rio Grande and its underground aquifers are being sucked dry on both sides of the frontier.

New generation of zero carbon homes move a step closer as carbon challenge gathers pace-- UK Government

As well as zero-carbon homes this ground-breaking project will create eco lifestyles. It will hand over a listed building to community use, capture rainwater and include sustainable drainage, farmers' shops, a car club and bicycle storage.

New Year's resolution-- Shed carbon

Three-quarters of Americans, the world's largest polluters, plan to be more environmentally responsible in 2008 by reducing household energy or recycling more, a survey showed on Monday.

Half of those polled said they would make a "green" New Year's resolution...

NRC to hold public meeting on Palo Verde

Conferees will discuss the results of a comprehensive inspection conducted this fall at Palo Verde as part of its heightened oversight as a result of performance problems there.

NYMEX crude falls as dollar continues to recover

NYMEX's front-month crude future on the CME's Globex system were 89 cents lower at $90.38/barrel Monday as the ongoing recovery in the US dollar put downward pressure across the commodity complex.

One Million Face Drought in Southwest China

More than a million people in the southwestern Chinese region of Guangxi have been hit by drinking water shortages in the worst drought since 1951, the official People's Daily said on Monday.

OPEC faces dollar headaches

Iran and Venezuela urged OPEC to express its concern about the rapid decline of the dollar and the effect it is having on oil prices, but the move was squelched by Saudi Arabia out of concern it would accelerate the dollar's fall and threaten the wealth of Gulf oil states.

OPEC production 121807

OPEC monitors its own crude production using so-called secondary sources, including the media. Platts publishes monthly estimates of OPEC production, based on a survey of OPEC and oil industry officials, on a country-by-country basis.

OPEC, the dollar and Saudi Arabia's role

The key player in OPEC is Saudi Arabia. The dollar's slide, exacerbated by the riyal's peg to the currency, has increased Saudi inflation, but this is still some way below rates in other Gulf economies.

Phoenix firm to invest in renewable energy

A privately owned Phoenix investment company has formed a $100 million start-up portfolio company to invest in renewable energy projects.

Qatar blames speculators for hike in oil prices

Qatari Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy and Industry Abdulah al Attiyah blamed speculators for the hike in world oil prices, noting that the surge is not linked to demand and supply. In this respect, they said whenever the dollar declined, oil prices surged.

Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 121707

Region 978 produced today's only C-class event, a C2 at 0716Z. The region appears to be decaying as it approaches west limb.  The geomagnetic field ranged from quiet to minor storm levels. The field was initially quiet but became disturbed after a sudden impulse was observed

Report-- Wind, solar power have limits

A report by a foundation studying state energy issues concludes there will be a need for more traditional power plants, even as the state shifts toward more alternative energy projects.

Seas Could Rise Twice as High as Predicted - Study

The world's sea levels could rise twice as high this century as UN climate scientists have predicted, according to researchers who looked at what happened more than 100,000 years ago, the last time Earth got this hot.

Senate Energy Bill Will Save Consumers and Businesses At Least $400 Billion

The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) estimates that the energy efficiency portions of the energy bill that passed the Senate last night are more than triple the savings from legislation passed by Congress in 2005, and more than seven times the savings from legislation passed in 1992.

The government should never have the power to require immunizations or vaccinations

Dr. Ron Paul in response to the Natural Solutions Foundation's Health Freedom Score Card

The Microwave Magician

Frank Pringle has found a way to squeeze oil and gas from just about anything

Turkey sees need for continued energy cooperation with Iran

...his country needs natural gas and electricity and the Turkish authorities hold talks with energy rich states with a view to the country's future energy consumption pattern.

On a letter of understanding signed between Iran and Turkey on gas supply, Guler said Europe needs Iran's gas and the latter's gas is to be transferred to Europe via Turkey.

Turkey-Greece natural gas pipeline opens

Turkish Primer Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that Turkey-Greece Natural Gas pipeline would boost prosperity in the region and became an energy route linking east and west.

U.S. firms urge emissions goal-- Afraid of uncertainty, patchwork regulation

As delegates to the UN-sponsored conference on climate change struggled to reach an agreement in Bali, Indonesia, one of the interest groups rooting for a mandate on pollution controls might seem surprising: American big business.

UK Government-- Boost for local renewable energy from new planning rules

Changes to the planning system will mean all councils will be expected to provide for on-site renewable energy and local community energy schemes to help cut carbon emissions from new developments

UNFCCC WRAP== The Bali Action Plan

The UNFCCC climate change talks ended Saturday afternoon after delegates from over 180 nations finally agreed on a negotiating mandate, the so-called Bali Action Plan.

University of California agrees to pay fine at Los Alamos

In September, NNSA which oversees US nuclear weapons labs, imposed a $3
million fine on the university after classified information from Los Alamos
was discovered in a trailer park during a drug raid.

US congressional spending bill would cut SPR funding by $145 mil

A fiscal 2008 catch-all spending bill US congressional appropriators made public late Sunday would cut funding for the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to $188.5 million from the $333.5 million the Bush administration had requested.

US Senate OKs farm bill with CFTC changes, renewable fuel credits

The US Senate Friday passed a massive farm bill that would, among other things, close the so-called "Enron loophole" that exempts some electronic energy exchanges from government regulation, extend a variety of renewable and alternative fuel production tax credits, and create several new programs to promote and develop the nascent advanced biofuels industry.

Venezuela, Iran argue for dollar alternative

Despite having failed to persuade OPEC heads of state to mention the weak US dollar in their summit declaration, Iran and Venezuela continued last weekend to push for a move to a stronger currency for oil sales.

What is the real cost of oil from the Middle East for Americans?

So what is the real cost of the Iraq war in terms of oil import prices? My rough estimate is that the real cost of oil from the Middle East for Americans may total $ 300 a barrel or more.

But no one has made the calculation.

What's Moving the Oil Markets 121707

•Crude futures retreated slightly Monday, though remaining well above $90/b. Weather-related issues in the US supported the complex in earlier trading, which is counteracting effects of a stronger US dollar and weaker Asian equity markets.

What's Moving the Oil Markets 121807

 •Global crude futures moved higher in early European trading on Tuesday, underpinned by news that Turkish troops had crossed over into northern Iraq's Kurdish territory and of refinery strikes in France, sources said.

•Additionally, fresh monetary injections by the European Central Bank should provide support, sources said.

When Risk Fails

With bank after bank writing off billions of dollars of losses and the credit crunch settling in for a tighter and tighter grip on the US economy, investors and economists alike are beginning to ask questions.

Where does gasoline for US consumers come from?

The fact that you purchase gasoline from a given company does not necessarily mean that the gasoline was actually produced by that particular company’s refineries.

Which way is oil demand going?

With a global credit crunch already under way and fears growing of a possible recession in the US, this month's report from the International Energy Agency, released Friday, was keenly awaited to give an insight into where demand for oil is heading. The results, however, are tricky to interpret.

Wind Power Gets Personal-- Small Turbines Being Installed in Homes, Offices Carve Out a Growing Niche Among State's Renewable Energy Technologies

Arges is among a growing group of Americans installing personal wind turbines to cut power costs and help the planet.

Wind is a non-polluting fuel source. That's why the state wants to ramp up production.

December 14, 2007

Acid Seas Huge Threat to Coral Reefs - Study

In less than 50 years, oceans may be too acidic for coral reefs to grow because of carbon emissions from the burning of fossil fuels by humans, according to research released on Thursday.

Arizona's Solar Policies Trail Nearly Every Other State According to a New Report Issued Today

Compared to nearly every other state in the nation, Arizona falls short on its policies, particularly in net metering, a critical element in ensuring a healthy solar market.

Bali negotiations mired in detail as deadline passes

Negotiations over a post-2012 climate change action plan slowed to a crawl late Friday afternoon in Bali, as delegates grappled with the details of the key elements needed for a final agreement.

California climate law may require 30% rate hikes-- PUC official

Meeting the requirements of California's 2006 climate law may call for utilities to increase electricity and natural gas rates by about 30% on average by 2020...

China Makes Cleaner Coal Strides, Problems Linger

In a control room at the Zouxian power plant an electronic display reads the vital signs of two generators -- just over one gigawatt, reads one, enough to power a million homes.

China's Nuclear Power Aspirations

China's nuclear program may be a harbinger of things to come in the industry. That nation, which now uses coal to fuel two-thirds of its electric generation, says that its eventual goal is to obtain a third of its power from nuclear energy.

Climate Change Poses Dangerous Health Risks - WHO

Millions more people will be at risk from illnesses such as malaria and diarrhoea in a warming world beset by heatwaves and water shortages, the World Health Organisation said on Thursday.

Coal Ash Is More Radioactive than Nuclear Waste

By burning away all the pesky carbon and other impurities, coal power plants produce heaps of radiation

Congratulations to a Woman of Conscience!

Only New Jersey Assemblywoman Charlotte Vandervalk (R-Bergen), a sponsor of a bill (A165) that would allow parents to opt out of the vaccine mandates by filing a "conscientious exemption" form with the local health department, voted against these vaccine requirements.

Crist-- Solar Roofs Save Energy

It's not often a roofing company gets a visit from the governor, but then again, Advanced Green Technologies is not your typical roofing company.

Debate on nuclear power is cooling-- Residents are comfortable with the plant, calling it a 'part of industry,' but some environmentalists say better options are available

"The reality is that if there is any major accident, there is nothing we can do about it, really," said Judy Zwelling, a Williamsburg resident. "This entire community would be destroyed if there was a nuclear accident. You just can't live your life thinking that way if you're living here."

Electricity Outages Could Last for Days

Utility companies in Oklahoma on Monday were calling in crews from the Gulf Coast to the Carolinas to help them deal with record-setting power outages.

Energy Bill Update-- Senate Approves Compromise Legislation

After a hard-fought battle on the political playing field, the renewable energy industries have suffered a difficult defeat. The Senate voted yesterday evening on an Energy Bill that left out the investment and production tax credits and a renewable portfolio standard (RPS), avoiding a Presidential veto but dramatically reducing the role of renewables in Congress' energy plan.

Energy tax plan modified in Senate; coal provisions intact

Leaders of the Senate Finance Committee released a revised amendment of the $21.8 billion in energy tax provisions on Wednesday. The Senate is expected to vote on the amendment on Thursday. While provisions for renewable energy development and electric utilities were revamped, tax credits for coal went unchanged.

EU Accuses US of Blocking Climate Talks

The European Union accused the United States on Thursday of blocking goals for fighting climate change at UN talks in Bali and threatened to boycott US talks among top greenhouse gas emitting nations.

EU turns up the heat on US over post-2012 climate approach

Earlier Thursday, German environment minister Sigmar Gabriel was reported as saying that EU major economies would not attend a US-hosted meeting on climate change in January without substantive progress in Bali.

Focus on Turbines Switches to North Sea

North Sea wind farms could be powering homes across the country by 2020, after the Government unveiled a new focus on offshore turbines.

Geothermal Report Calls for Improved Exploration Technologies

The key to making use of the untapped geothermal energy resources that lie beneath our feet is to improve the technologies used to discover and tap into those resources, according to a recent report from the Geothermal Energy Association (GEA).

Global Renewable Energy Experiencing Double-Digit Growth-- Report

Excluding large hydropower, the global electric generating capacity of renewable energy facilities reached 237 gigawatts (GW) this year, up 15% from last year. That's about 5.5% of the electric generating capacity throughout the world.

Grab your share of the $18.5 billion solar energy market!

The photovoltaic technology for converting sunlight directly into electricity has been around for years - with the price per kilowatt getting lower and lower with each passing year.

Grain Harvest Sets Record, But Supplies Still Tight

Following several years of declining harvests, the world’s farmers reaped a record 2.316 billion tons of grain in 2007. Despite this jump of 95 million tons, or about 4 percent, over the previous year, commodity analysts estimate that voracious global demand will consume all of this increase and prevent governments from replenishing cereal stocks that are at their lowest level in 30 years

Grooming Wind

Can wind be groomed to become a dependable source of electricity? Researchers at Stanford University say that it can. They conclude that various wind farms can connect and then join at a centralized transmission line to accomplish the mission.

High Winds Likely to Spread South Korea Oil Spill

Strong winds on Thursday threatened to spread the devastation from South Korea's worst oil spill and cold weather hit already slow clean-up efforts by thousands of exhausted workers.

Indigenous People Fear Double Climate Hit

Indigenous people already struggling to cope with a warming world risk losing their homes under rich-world schemes to tackle climate change by using forests as carbon sinks, activists said on Thursday.

Indonesia inks 179 million mt of coal for export in 2008

Indonesia is expected to up its total coal exports in 2008 by 8.5% to 179 million mt, the chairman of the Indonesian coal producers association, Jeffrey Mulyono, said Wednesday.

Inject respect into climate debate

Another startling report of accelerated Arctic melting surfaced recently. It probably did not incite any more fear than the last report of Arctic melting did, but this one appeared as world governments debated in Bali over a new climate treaty. ''The Arctic is often cited as the canary in the coal mine for climate warming,'' said a NASA climatologist.

Make Web sites carbon neutral for free

An Austin, Texas-based consulting and technology firm is offering Web page managers a free way to make their sites carbon neutral.

More than 340,000 customers without power in Kansas and Oklahoma

Three large investor-owned utilities in Oklahoma and Kansas on Friday reported that a total of more than 340,000 of their customers remain without power as a result of this week's ice storm.

New Senate energy bill includes repeal of majors' tax credit

Unlike the House-passed energy bill, which the Senate rejected last week, the Senate version would repeal the section 199 manufacturers' tax deduction only for the major integrated oil companies, not all US oil and gas producers.

Next generation nuke could cost up to $4.3 bil to build-- US DOE

Demonstrating the commercial viability of a high-temperature gas-cooled nuclear reactor capable of producing both electricity and hydrogen could cost between $3.8 billion and $4.3 billion...

Norway Oil Spill Contained, Stirs Fears for Arctic

Favourable winds were set to keep an oil slick 10 km long and 5 km wide from reaching the Norwegian shore although rough seas hampered a clean-up operation, energy group StatoilHydro said on Thursday.

Ontario Commits Climate Change Funding For Adaptation

The McGuinty government is receiving world-class scientific advice as part of its climate change plan, Environment Minister John Gerretsen announced today.

Outlook remains stable for US gas, power sector-- Fitch

The outlook for US gas and power utilities is stable for the coming year, while the business environment for non-utility power generators generally is favorable, Fitch Ratings said Wednesday.

People Demand a Discount Rate Cut

With the federal-funds rate and the discount rate dropping only a quarter percentage point apiece, many people close to the industry are grimacing at Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke for his lack of compassion during the holiday season.

Post-2012 climate talks at 'stalemate,' say green groups

Negotiations for a post-2012 global climate change agreement appeared to be at "stalemate" Wednesday afternoon in Bali, according to environmental groups, as developed countries led by the US continued to reject elements of a draft text that would govern the talks.

Quote of the Day 121407

"Sustained high prices are starting to curb demand, but so far only at the margin. Only in the OECD, where end-user prices are more sensitive to crude price shifts and oil demand has plateaued, is oil product demand growth gradually slowing, as evidenced by weak US gasoline data or sluggish European heating oil figures."

Reactor's shutdown limits medical testing-- Procedures require nuclear substance

Hospitals and clinics in the Inland Northwest and across Washington are limiting nuclear medicine tests to only the most serious cases as a reactor in Canada remains idle, threatening supplies.

Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 121307

Region 978 (S08W25) produced a C4.5/1f event...This region has exhibited growth in
white light area coverage and developed a beta-gamma-delta magnetic configuration.

Republican Candidates' Views on Global Warming

Republican US presidential candidates rebelled against a debate moderator on Wednesday and refused to raise their hands in response to a question about global warming.

School Districts Top EPA's List of Energy Star Leaders

EPA's list of Energy Star Leaders has grown to more than 50 organizations, almost two-thirds of which are school districts.

Selling Solar Energy Without Incentives

In short, we need to market solar as an investment that will save money while you own it and return most or all of your investment when you sell the building it's sitting on.

Senators sign letter to UN about climate change

Fifteen senators signed a letter telling United Nations climate chief Yvo de Boer to take heart because of recent congressional action to combat global climate change.

Texas utility to develop coal-fired power plant

The Dallas-based company, a subsidiary of Energy Future Holdings LP, will work with the nonprofit consortium of electric utilities and coal companies that have partnered with the U.S. Department of Energy to develop the $1.5 billion, 275-megawatt FutureGen plant.

Toshiba's new SCiB battery charges in 5 minutes, releases March 2008 for electric vehicles

Toshiba is entering the electric vehicle battery market next March with the release of the Super Charge ion Battery, or SCiB. According to the company press release, the battery charges 90 percent full in 5 minutes, can last 10 years and loses less than 10 percent efficiency after 3,000 recharges.

Transitioning into the Next Phase of Clean, Secure, Reliable Energy Delivery for our Digital Society

Corporate and global environments have changed vastly over the last couple of decades. The mission critical industry requires new energy solutions to protect and secure critical infrastructures. While the design intent is more resiliency, to achieve this we as an industry need to think outside the box.

US court rejects challenge to $1.5 bil uranium-enrichment plant

In a victory for the US nuclear power industry, a federal appeals court on Tuesday threw out a lawsuit that sought to halt construction of a $1.5 billion uranium-enrichment plant that a consortium of energy companies is building in southeastern New Mexico.

US expects climate roadmap to omit any emissions target reference

The US expects all reference to an emissions reduction target to be taken out of the latest draft of a baseline framework to guide negotiations for a post-2012 climate change agreement, senior Bali talks officials told Platts.

US House provision to boost military's use of renewable power

The US military would be required to use wind, solar and other renewable forms of energy to meet at least 25% of its electricity needs by 2025 under a provision in a bill that the US House of Representatives passed late Wednesday.

US, China agree to cooperate on biofuels production and use

The US and China have signed a memorandum of understanding in Beijing to expand cooperation on biofuels production and use.

Utility crews converging on Kansas, Oklahoma

"Based on the number of power lines and poles reported down so far, and the amount of debris that will need to be cleared, it will be important that we have federal support available to our communities,"

Warming Up to Solar Power

A little more than a year ago I joined a small, scattered club of Hampton Roads homeowners, and I'm still wondering why there aren't more of us.

I had a solar hot-water system installed on my house.

Now the results are in: The system works - and I've got a year's worth of lower electric bills to prove it.

What's Moving the Oil Markets 121307

•Global crude futures were steady in early European trading Thursday, stabilizing after the $4/barrel gains Wednesday which were driven by a strong seasonal draw in US heating oil stocks and the bullish sentiment

What's Moving the Oil Markets 121407

 •Crude futures moved higher on Friday, regaining some ground that was lost during Thursday's massive selloff, which took place on the back of a weakening at the front-end curves due to falling interest rates and building US crude stocks at Cushing, Oklahoma, WTI's delivery point, sources said.

Wild overnight moves see gold come level again Wednesday morning

Gold opened in Europe Wednesday at more or less the level of Tuesday's open, despite the wild rise and fall of the gold price overnight in New York and New York electronic trading. The yellow metal had traded up to an intraday high of $813.10/oz, and as low as around $796/oz.

December 11, 2007

2 men claim to have more powerful solar panel

A local entrepreneur and an electrician from California say they have exclusive rights to a solar panel that will turn the energy industry on its head and help the environment — a device 15 times more powerful than any other and cheaper to boot.

All Nations Must Join Climate Fight - Bali Draft

All nations must do more to fight climate change, and rich countries must make deep cuts in greenhouse gas emissions to avoid the worst impacts, a draft proposal at United Nations talks said on Saturday.

Bids for nuclear power soar

The long-discussed second coming of the U.S. nuclear power industry is gathering steam.  Federal regulators have received license applications for six new reactors in the past five months.

Bill would set aside billions for conservation

Legislation requiring cuts in global warming greenhouse gases passed a U.S. Senate committee this week with a little-known provision earmarking billions of dollars to conservation and wildlife projects.

Bird Flu-- A Virus of Our Own Hatching

How a deadly disease could be a hidden cost of choosing cheap meat.

Bush veto threat doesn´t keep energy bill down

A President Bush veto threat didn’t prevent the House from approving a revamped energy bill Thursday that raises fuel economy standards for the first time since 1975, boosts biofuels and requires utilities to go greener.

China Expects US$1.5 Billion for Climate Fund by 2012

China expects to raise US$1.5 billion by 2012 from a levy on sales of carbon credits, which it will channel into a government fund to raise awareness of climate change and cut emissions, the head of the fund said.

Climate Missing from US Election - Gore

Nobel Peace Prize laureate Al Gore said on Monday the US presidential election campaign had paid insufficient attention to the environment and climate change.

Crude futures drift sideways, awaiting direction from US Fed

Global crude futures moved sideways in European morning trading Monday after the more than $2/barrel intra-day selloff on Friday, when the whole petroleum complex had abruptly reversed Thursday's gains despite a lack of any fundamental news.

Democrats' Report-- White House Misleads on Climate

With US policy at the center of debate at a Bali climate change meeting, Democrats in Congress said on Monday that the White House manipulated science for years to cast doubt on reality of global warming.

Dept. of Interior wants coal-fired plant on hold

The U.S. Department of Interior said approval of Santee Cooper's proposed $1 billion coal-fired power plant needs to be put on hold until a comprehensive analysis is done of potential damage to the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge from mercury fallout and other air pollution that the plant would generate

Energy, Carbon Concerns Put Spotlight on Uranium

The spot price of uranium, used to fuel nuclear reactors worldwide, is trading at US$93 per pound on Monday, according to Ux Consulting.

Finance Ministers in Bali Count Climate Costs

Forty nations held unprecedented talks about ways to slow global warming without derailing world economic growth on the margins of UN climate talks in Bali on Monday.

Food, fuel prices drive China's inflation to record highs in Nov

China's consumer price index, the main gauge of inflation and the temperature of the economy, hit a new 10-year high of 6.9% in November, the government said Tuesday.

Freedom, Not Climate, is Under Threat - Czech Leader

The movement against global warming has turned into a new religion, an ideology that threatens to undermine freedom and the world's economic and social order, Czech President Vaclav Klaus said on Monday.

Greenland Ice Sheet Melting at Record Rate

"The amount of ice lost by Greenland over the last year is the equivalent of two times all the ice in the Alps, or a layer of water more than one-half mile (800 meters) deep covering Washington DC," said Konrad Steffen of the University of Colorado at Boulder.

Group to push for wind energy

The group aims to bring together people interested in small and large wind projects. It will inform the public about the potential of wind energy and seek ways to encourage wind energy development within Nebraska's unique public power structure.

Heating up the EU biomass market

If the EU is to comply with its proposed renewable energy targets, a well-developed strategy needs to be put in place to boost the deployment of all renewable energy technologies which are commercially viable. This is not trivial, as evidenced by the current shenanigans surrounding the forthcoming EU renewable energy directive. But one thing is clear – biomass needs to be regarded as one of the main pillars in this strategy.

High Clouds Show Effects of Climate Change - Study

Clouds at the edge of space are showing the effects of climate change, scientists said on Monday.

How clean is your electricity?

Plug in your ZIP code and select your utility company to identify the sources used to produce your energy, then compare the results (and your emissions) with the national average.  

Ice Storm Trips Power, Paralyzes Key US Oil Hub

A deadly ice storm in the US heartland triggered power outages that paralyzed parts of the most important US oil hub, threatening supplies to the region's oil refineries.

Johnson, Chinese Officials Discuss Balancing Economy, Environment

"Over the past few decades, the U.S. has worked to create an appropriate balance between a growing economy and a healthy environment. As China now faces a similar challenge

Key Facts About Oil Spills

A large oil tanker was gushing thousands of tonnes of oil off South Korea's west coast, South Korea's maritime ministry said, in what was the worst spill in the country's waters since 1995.  The Hong Kong registered Hebei Spirit, struck while at anchor about five miles offshore, has already leaked about 10,800 tonnes of crude oil, officials said.

Here are some key facts about oil spills:

Nuclear plant's water permit contested

The North Anna plant uses 3,400 acres of water in a series of lagoons created for the plant to cool its nuclear reactors. The water doesn't come in contact with radioactive material.

OPEC retains 27.253 million b/d oil production target

December 5, 2007 - OPEC ministers meeting in the UAE capital Abu Dhabi agreed December 5, as expected, to leave crude production unchanged for the time being and to meet again February 1 in Vienna

PV Inverter Sales Trends

The projected worldwide dollar market for Distributed and Co-Generation (DCG) power electronics, including inverters for photovoltaic (PV) systems, is expected to increase from $3.7 billion in 2006 to $7.6 billion in 2011, a compound average annual growth rate of 15.4%.

Racing to a Revolution

A multimillion dollar prize is up for grabs in the race to build a 100 mpg automobile.

Renewable Energy Portfolios Standards and Transmission Reliability

Renewable energy sources presently provide 10.1 percent of the U.S. installed electric generation capacity. The flexible dispatch of existing renewable electric sources of hydroelectric (80 percent of renewable total) and biomass (10 percent) is contributing to the reliability of the U.S. electric system much like more conventional forms of generation.

Renewables Investments Seen Over US$100 Bln in 2007

World annual investments in renewable energy will top US$100 billion for the first time in 2007, led by wind power, according to a report issued at United Nations climate talks on Saturday.

Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 120907

Solar activity was very low. Region 978 (S09E26) produced a B9.4 flare during this period.  The geomagnetic field activity level will increase from quiet to unsettled early on day 2 as a recurrent coronal hole becomes geoeffective.

Sault Ste. Marie Set to Become a Solar City

Sault Ste Marie is poised to become home to one of Ontario's largest solar farms, thanks to the latest contracts signed under the province's Standard Offer Program.

Signaling for Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is becoming big business. In fact, some state regulators and their respective utilities are working together to empower customers to get them to become more energy aware. Demand response is among the leading methods -- a technology that allows utilities to signal customers to adjust their energy use during the peak energy time periods.

SkyFuel to use 'power tower,' salt to gather sun's energy

Should SkyFuel decide to locate a 1,000-megawatt solar power plant near Del Norte, the company hopes to use a new technology that would make solar power cheaper and easier to get to market.

Solar is the Solution

It’s time to harness the world’s virtually inexhaustible supply of solar energy and start building a brighter future.

South Korea Counts Cost of National Park Oil Spill

South Korea on Monday was tallying the environmental and economic cost of the worst oil spill in its history as thousands of workers struggled to protect an area known for its nature reserve and vibrant marine economy.

Strong Liquidity, Stable Operating Trends Mitigate Concerns in 2008

Fitch believes 2008 credit and operating trends will remain stable for most U.S. information technology (IT) sectors, except for electronic manufacturing services (EMS), which has a negative outlook. Total industry debt is expected to increase in 2008 exceeding a 10-year high again, surpassing $190 billion.

Suit filed over proposed new EPA rules

Attempts were made to overturn Bush administration proposals that dodge mandatory cuts in mercury pollution from coal-and oil-fired power plants at the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Dec. 6.

UK Farm Sector Could be Near Carbon Neutral - Report

Agriculture in Britain is the second largest emitter of greenhouse gases after the energy sector but has the potential to be almost carbon neutral, an industry report issued on Monday said.

UN Climate Talks Under Pressure to Drop 2020 Goals

The United States urged a UN climate meeting on Monday to drop a 2020 target for deep cuts in greenhouse gases by rich nations from guidelines for a new pact to slow global warming beyond 2012.

US Energy Bill rollercoaster continues

The US is in the process of trying to agree a comprehensive Energy Bill before the end of the year's business. A groundbreaking vote in the House on Thursday 6 December approved renewable energy tax breaks and a federal mandate to ensure utilities provide 15% of electricity from renewable sources by 2020 (RES). But US Senators still rejected the Bill in its current form.

US gasoline prices back to over $3.40gal by spring 2008-- EIA

US petroleum consumption will average 20.8 million b/d in 2007, up 0.4% year-over-year, the Energy Information Administration said in its latest Short Term Energy Outlook Tuesday.

US Senate Blocks Speedy Vote on House Energy Bill

A sweeping energy bill that would boost fuel mileage for cars stalled in the US Senate on Friday as Republicans objected to new taxes and regulations on industry, but an aide said Democrats would modify the bill.

US Weather Commentary 121007

This will be a new ongoing feature to keep tabs on cumulative weather for key hubs during the month so we don't lose sight of where we're coming from, when we look ahead to where we are going.

US, others rebuff first effort at climate change talks mandate

An initial effort to craft a mandate for negotiations on climate change action after 2012 appeared to be doomed on Monday as numerous delegations, led by the US, voiced opposition to the inclusion of specific emissions reduction targets in a draft proposal.

What's Moving the Oil Markets 121107

•Crude futures were slightly higher in European morning trading as the market awaited the US Federal Reserve's interest rate decision later Tuesday, sources said.

World Needs Robust Climate Pact for Security - Study

Global warming could trigger mass migration, disrupt trade and lead to conflicts over farmland and water resources from Africa to Asia, a report released at climate talks in Bali said on Monday.

World Not Doing Enough on Climate Change - IEA

The world has tools to cut emissions massively but is not using them or investing enough in technology needed to avert dangerous climate change, the head of the International Energy Agency said on Tuesday.

World oil market likely to be oversupplied by March-- Indonesia

The world's oil market is expected to be oversupplied by 1.2 million-2 million b/d by March and OPEC would evaluate the situation carefully before making any decision at its February meeting, an official said Tuesday.

December 7, 2007

7th international PV trade mission

Would you like to explore new solar energy technologies and PV business opportunities in Taiwan's rapidly growing PV industry?

An 'Enduring' Relationship for Security and Enduring an Occupation for Oil

Last week Iraq's Maliki government "asked" President Bush for an "enduring" strategic security relationship with the United States that will have 50,000 US military and probably 50,000-75,000 US contractors/mercenaries in Iraq for decades.

Bali Conference, Day 3-- Off on the wrong foot?

Since arriving, I’ve had something of an identity crisis. I’m at an event where decisions are being made (or perhaps not made) that I believe will truly shape the course of the world for the next century or more. But I’m a researcher, not a lobbyist.

Binding targets may still not deliver for renewables

But binding targets in themselves are no guarantee of results. If the support needed to reach these targets is too expensive, some member states may decide that it would be cheaper simply to pay a European Court of Justice fine for missing them, according to one Brussels insider.

California's Assignment - November 19, 2007 Comments

An ecological value added tax (EVAT) to replace California state income taxes can be a useful way to make the market send accurate price signals on carbon and other pollutants.

China, India sit in on IEA policy meeting for first time

China and India have taken part for first time in an International Energy Agency meeting to discuss issues including long-term policy and emergency preparedness, the adviser to large energy consuming nations said Thursday.

Costa Rica, Eye on Climate, Plants 5 Million Trees

Costa Rica, a leader in eco-tourism and home to some of the world's rarest species, planted its 5 millionth tree of 2007 on Wednesday as it tries to put a brake on global warming.

County opposes power-line plan

The San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday sent a message to the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power: Don't build your power lines through environmentally sensitive areas of our desert.

Crude futures move lower amid bearish technical picture

Global crude futures lost ground during European morning trading Thursday, as a very bearish technical picture combined with a stronger US dollar and mixed US stats data dragged prices lower, sources said.

Crude slightly lower, holding on to strong Thursday settles

Global crude futures were stable to slightly lower in European morning trading on Friday, holding on to gains seen Thursday that resulted from the latest fundamental developments, a weakening US dollar and buying-back tendencies, as crude futures appeared oversold lately, sources said.

Dem. congratulated after climate change vote

After her environment committee voted Wednesday evening to advance major cap-and-trade climate change legislation to the full Senate, Democrat Barbara Boxer received two congratulatory calls.

Developers may have to pay more for power lines

The Arizona Corporation Commission and Arizona Public Service are drawing up new regulations that would require developers and individuals to pay more for the cost of extending power lines into new subdivisions and homes in remote areas.

Dong Energy to Build and Operate Two Wind Farms Offshore UK

Dong Energy has decided to construct and operate two offshore wind farms in the UK, Walney Island and Gunfleet Sands II.

EC seeks binding national renewable sectoral targets in draft law

EU member states must adopt binding national sectoral targets for final use of renewable power and renewable heating and cooling to help meet the EU's 2020 renewables target

Energy Bill Update-- A Washington Insider's View

The Congressional Democratic leadership will soon bring to the floor a comprehensive set of policies to drive clean energy into the coming decades which face the risk of a presidential veto by including $21 billion in tax incentives paid for by repealing oil and gas industry subsidies.

EPA Plan to Evade Required Cuts in Mercury Pollution Challenged in Court By States, Tribes, Health and Environmental Groups

Fourteen states and dozens of Native American tribes, public health and environmental groups, and organizations representing registered nurses and physicians appeared in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia today seeking to overturn Bush administration proposals that evade legally required cuts in mercury pollution from coal- and oil-fired power plants (Case No.: 05-1097). The broad coalition called for the complete reversal of a suite of Environmental Protection Agency rule...

Experts agree renewables needed; coal keeps electricity reliable

If the goal of the US Congress is to be energy independent, then removing fossil fuels from the equation won't get us there, a panel of energy experts told the Republicans' House Energy Action Team on Wednesday.

Follow-up inspection at Peach Bottom nuclear power plant reveals deficiencies

A U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission follow-up inspection has discovered a performance deficiency at Peach Bottom Atomic Power Station.

Free-Energy Battery Inventor Killed at Airport

Official statement cites "natural causes" but others familiar with the disruptive potential of the inventor's technology to the existing power structure consider it a probable assassination. 

Governor Rendell Pleased Federal Energy Department Will Reconsider Transmission Corridor Designation

The federal government has heard our voices of displeasure and granted additional time to reconsider this decision, which we believe to be ill-conceived, said Governor Rendell.

Gulf Stream's Tidal Energy Could Provide Up to a Third of Florida's Power

As solar, wind and other renewable energy technologies increasingly become seen as viable alternatives to coal- and fossil fuel-based ones, some scientists are already looking beyond recent breakthroughs in these areas to the vast, largely untapped potential offered by the world's oceans.

In Bali, UN Hails US Senate Climate Steps

The United Nations praised on Thursday a step by a US Senate committee to cut greenhouse gas emissions in the world's top carbon emitter even as Washington reaffirmed opposition to mandatory caps.

Inbox 120607

Ireland Goes Green With Light Bulb Rules, Car Tax

Ireland will ban traditional light bulbs in favour of energy-saving alternatives from 2009 and penalise high-emission vehicles from July 2008, Environment Minister John Gormley said on Thursday.

Key Parts of $21.5 Billion US House Energy Tax Package

The US House of Representatives Thursday passed a wide-ranging energy bill that included a $21.5 billion package of tax incentives for renewable energy sources like wind and solar over 10 years.

La Niña is expected to continue into Northern Hemisphere spring 2008

La Niña reached moderate strength during November 2007, with below-average sea surface temperatures (SSTs) extending from 160E to the South American coast.

Law's intent at crux of hearings-- Regulators want lawyers to learn what lawmakers intended in a 1978 law that allows utilities extra profit when they develop renewable energy

What you pay for wind power in the future could hinge on what the state Legislature intended when it passed a law during the Carter Administration to encourage development of alternative energy sources.

Legislators debate proposed coal power plant

A health forum gave state legislators a chance to publicly express their views -- many for the first time -- on LS Power's proposed coal power plant.

NEI laments the house decision not to include nuke as a renewable

The bill mandates that US utilities get 15% of their power from renewable sources and efficiency improvements by 2020. Nuclear is not included as a renewable resource.

New Fuel Cell Cleans Up Pollution And Produces Electricity

Scientists in Pennsylvania are reporting development of a fuel cell that uses pollution from coal and metal mines to generate electricity, solving a serious environmental problem while providing a new source of energy. They describe successful tests of a laboratory-scale version of the device in a new study.

New York state-based energy consortium bent on advancing solar power

Six months ago, Vincent Cozzolino got to wondering about solar power. Why wasn't research moving forward? Who was going to make it work?

No new US refinery! No big deal!

That's not true, of course.

NRC Accepts Application for Two New Nuclear Units in Texas

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has docketed the Combined Construction and Operating License Application (COLA) to build and operate two new nuclear units at the South Texas Project (STP) nuclear power station site filed by NRG Energy, Inc.

NYC to cut 30 percent municipal energy consumption by 2017

New York Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg on Wednesday announced a plan to begin reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions from the city's municipal buildings and operations by 30 percent by 2017.

Offshore Wind Necessary to Meet EU's 20% Renewables Target

If Europe wants to meet its 20% binding target for renewable energy by 2020, it must increase its use of offshore wind, delegates heard today at the opening of the Offshore Wind Conference in Berlin, Germany.

Proposals to reduce carbon take shape

The city of Seattle wants to make people who drive gas guzzlers pay an extra "carbon fee" each year.

The state says developers will soon have to calculate the greenhouse gases from big new office buildings or housing developments before they can even break ground.

Quote of the Day 120707

"The market posted a strong recovery after recording five-week lows in the overnight session. The weakening in the US dollar, and an OECD report raising economic growth forecasts for China, were mentioned as drivers behind [Thursday's] price strength. However, we feel that the larger initiative was simply provided by the fact that the complex had become oversold on a short-term basis,"
and as players bought back positions, prices strengthened, independent energy consultant Jim Ritterbusch said in a report Thursday evening.

Recycling rates figure in to climate change bill

Recycling made its debut in a landmark climate change bill Wednesday with acceptance of an amendment offered by Sen. Tom Carper.

Renewable Electricity Standard Good News for Economy, Energy Consumers, and Carbon Dioxide Reduction

A new comprehensive analysis of the Renewable Electricity Standard (RES) in the pending House and Senate energy legislation shows that, if adopted, the RES would cut consumer energy bills and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions as well as stimulate job growth.

Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 120607

Solar Activity Forecast: Solar activity is expected to remain very low though there is a slight chance for an isolated C-class flare from Region 978.  The geomagnetic field is expected to remain at quiet levels for the forecast period (07 - 09 December).

Scientists Demand Swift Climate Action at Bali Meet

Climate scientists from around the world urged delegates at UN-led talks in Bali on Thursday to make deeper and swifter cuts to greenhouse emissions to prevent dangerous global warming.

Senate committee on track to OK global warming bill

Senate Republicans lost their first attempt this morning to derail the global warming bill Sen. Barbara Boxer hopes to send to the chamber this week.

Senior advisers to recommend president veto energy bill-- OMB

...singling out for criticism provisions that would raise federal standards for vehicle fuel efficiency and alternative fuel production and establish a new federal requirement for electricity produced from renewable energy...They also object to a $21-billion tax provision that would curtail incentives available to oil and natural gas companies and transfer some of the proceeds to alternative energy development

Some Insight Into OPEC's Last Meeting

They believe that the market is well supplied with oil, that supply and demand are in balance and the price is being driven by non-fundementals particularly speculation.

Subprime Bailout II, Wells Fargo Writedown Raises the Bar

If Secretary Paulson really wants to help subprime borrowers, then he should tell them to hand their lenders the house keys and go back to renting. We don't know a single loan officer or risk manager among the readers of The Institutional Risk Analyst who believes that the subprime bubble, specifically the increase in the rate of US home ownership from the mid-60 percent range that prevailed since WWII to the low 70s today, is anything but a complete write off.

Survival of the Fittest

The survival-of-the-fittest maxim Darwin spent a lifetime preaching applies to nearly everything.  And according to Barrons’ Don Brownstein, the world of finance is no different.

Taking Swipes at Nuclear Power - November 26, 2007 Comments

The elephant in the room still is reprocessing of spent nuclear fuel! Storing it in pools, at Yucca Mountain or wherever, is truly a costly misuse of a valuable resource. Labeling it "nuclear waste" compounds the problem of perception and unfairly characterizes the asset.

Tanker Leaks Oil Off S.Korea Coast

A large oil tanker gushed thousands of tons of oil into the sea near one of South Korea's most scenic coastlines after being hit by a barge, South Korea's maritime ministry said on Friday.

Tax Credit Program Promotes Advanced Coal Power Generation and Gasification Technologies

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is partnering with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to evaluate five projects that have recently applied for tax credits under the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (EPAct 2005)

Texas town vows to green itself

Coppell, Texas, has committed to using renewable energy in its effort to green the city.

The credit impact of climate change

The energy industry is bracing for a carbon-constrained world, but the ways governments choose to control carbon around the globe may have vastly different impacts on company bottom lines.

The Green Line - November 16, 2007 Comments

While I applaud the efforts of companies buying these green credits, there should be a parallel path to improve their stores energy efficiency.

Two environmental groups oppose new coal-fired plant-- Attorneys general from six states say pollution controls not good enough

American Municipal Power-Ohio's proposed coal-fired plant in Meigs County does not meet Clean Air Act standards and should not be built, two environmental groups said Monday.

Two New Landfill Gas-to-Energy Facilities Commence Operation in Virginia

Allied Waste Industries, Inc. (NYSE: AW), the second largest non-hazardous solid waste services company in the United States, today announced the commencement of operations of its two newest landfill gas-to-energy facilities, both located in Virginia.

Up to $7 Million in Grants Adds Fuel to the Methane to Markets Partnership

Yesterday, EPA made up to $7,000,000 available through a grant solicitation for innovative international projects and activities as part of the Methane to Markets Partnership.

US House passes energy bill boosting CAFE standards, renewables

The US House of Representatives voted 235 to 181 Thursday to pass a major
energy bill that would boost fuel economy standards for passenger vehicles,
increase production of renewable motor fuels, set a renewable energy standard
for electric utilities and take away from the largest oil companies $13.7
billion in tax credits to pay for new and expanded renewable and alternative
energy programs.

What's Moving the Oil Markets 120707

•Jan ICE Brent as well as NYMEX WTI futures settled at their highest values in over a week Thursday. At 11:14 GMT, Jan ICE Brent futures were down 26 cents to $89.92/barrel, while Jan NYMEX WTI lost 35 cents to $89.88/b. Brent's premium over WTI diminished, now at only 4 cents/b. "Crude futures remain a good buying opportunity," a London-based broker said.

•"The market posted a strong recovery after recording five-week lows in the overnight session. The weakening in the US dollar, and an OECD report raising economic growth forecasts for China, were mentioned as drivers behind [Thursday's] price strength. However, we feel that the larger initiative was simply provided by the fact that the complex had become oversold on a short-term basis," and as players bought back positions, prices strengthened, independent energy consultant Jim Ritterbusch said in a report Thursday evening.

Wind-Power Developers Press Air Force Secretary

The secretary of the Air Force was pressed Tuesday to provide energy developers with more guidance about where wind power projects might be acceptable in Nevada.

December 4, 2007

150 million to face flood risk by 2070

As many as 150 million people in the world's big coastal cities are likely to be at risk from flooding by the 2070s, more than three times as many as now, according to a report released on Tuesday.

AskPablo-- Should I buy a hybrid?

Does the fuel economy improvement of a hybrid really justify paying the price premium?"

Australia ratifies Kyoto Protocol

Australian Labor Party leader Kevin Rudd became the country's 26th prime minister Monday and immediately began dismantling the former government's policies by ratifying the Kyoto Protocol on climate change.

China, India Urged to Curb Energy Use

Coal-burning power plants belch pollutants into the air in China, contributing to global warming that experts say has destroyed billions of dollars in crops.

Every Drop Counts

Today EPA is recognizing six winners of the 2007 Water Efficiency Leader (WEL) awards for their efforts in reducing, reusing and recycling water.

Failed Nevada Experimental Energy Plant Costs Millions

A major Nevada utility got more than $200 million in taxpayer and ratepayer dollars for an experimental clean-coal generating plant that wouldn't run reliably and was mothballed. Now, Sierra Pacific Power Co. wants $42 million more from its customers.

Houses get 'green' geothermal systems

LeRoy German's wife is not too happy about tearing up the yard, but the grass wasn't growing that well anyway.

Kyoto's Footsteps

Almost everyone is familiar with "Kyoto." But in due time, the name "Bali" will eclipse that 1997 global warming pact. While the Kyoto Protocol set the stage to curb greenhouse gas emissions through 2012, the next phase of negotiations will carry on until 2050. The initial discussions will begin this December in Bali, India.

Leading Corporations Cutting Greenhouse Gases

EPA is today commending more than 150 businesses for working to reduce their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and advance the nation's climate change strategy at the agency's Climate Leaders conference in Boulder, Colo.

Left out of the climate communication loop

For these farmers the question of whether this drought might be caused by climate change was irrelevant. The most pressing issue for them was how best to cope with the day-to-day situation.

Libya says has not heard of any proposal to boost OPEC output

"If the market needs oil, we will give it oil," he said. When asked if he thought the market currently needed more oil, he said: "No, I don't think it needs any. we are not short of oil."

Major recycled paper collector to cut production

AbitibiBowater Inc., a major recycled paper collector and user, plans to cut paper production by 1.1 million metric tons as the company looks at ways to reduce costs.

Mental Disorders Rife After Hurricane Katrina - Study

About half of adult New Orleans residents suffered from anxiety and mood disorders months after Hurricane Katrina devastated the city, a higher rate than after most natural disasters, researchers said on Monday.

National Debt Grows $1 Million a Minute

Like a ticking time bomb, the national debt is an explosion waiting to happen. It's expanding by about $1.4 billion a day -- or nearly $1 million a minute.

What's that mean to you?

'Naughty' Nations In A Coal Lot Of Trouble In Bali

It's not easy being green. Particularly if you are one of the big polluters - Saudi Arabia, the United States and Canada. All three earned the first "Fossil of the Day Awards" at UN-led climate change talks in Bali on Monday, with each receiving a little sack of coal adorned with their national flags at a mock award ceremony filled with boos and laughter.

Oil futures sag 10% as bull run cools off ahead of 2008

With only a few weeks to go before the end of another calendar year, the bull run that has gripped energy futures markets since September began to cool off.

Quote of the Day 120407

"The main concern for OPEC is always trying to get the supply/demand in balance and it is balanced...If the market needs oil, we will give it oil...I don't think it needs any. we are not short of oil."
Libya's top oil official Shokri Ghanem said Tuesday

Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 120307

Stay Married -- Divorce Is Bad For Environment

Irked spouses looking for a reason to stay married were offered a novel rationale by US researchers on Monday: divorce is bad for the environment.

Straight Talk on Biodiesel, Veggie Oil

William Kemp is the author of Biodiesel Basics and Beyond, a how-to on making fuel from all manner of oil-producing plants. While he is an advocate of the technology, he offers a sobering assessment of its limitations in his answers here:

Surf's Up-- Catching the Next Green Innovation Wave

They have one of the world's largest economies; emit half the global warming pollutants per person of the average American, and less than Japanese, Germans and British. ...They are Californians

There's Oil in That Slime

Driven by renewed investment as oil prices push $100 a barrel, Ruan and scores of scientists around the world are racing to turn algae into a commercially viable energy source.

Turbo-cooker Wins Prize for Clean Burning

His invention, the Turbo-cooker (or turbo-cocina), could make life better for 3 billion people who rely on primitive wood- or biomass-burning stoves for cooking and heating.

US November LNG imports hit lowest level in four years

US imports of liquefied natural gas in November dropped to their lowest level in four years, consultant Pan EurAsian Enterprises said Monday in its weekly LNG summary.

US Says Seeks New Climate Deal, Rejects Kyoto

"We're not here to be a roadblock," US delegation leader Harlan Watson said on the opening day of a Dec. 3-14 meeting of almost 190 nations in Bali, Indonesia, seeking to agree a roadmap to work out a successor to Kyoto which runs to 2012.

Utah's energy outlook is clean

Utah has the potential to be a major exporter of clean energy.   Make that mega major.

Veggie Oil Vehicles and the Law

Excited about the idea of running your car on veggie oil? Maybe even free waste oil? Before you get too excited, carefully consider this problem: It’s technically illegal, although that may be changing soon.

What's Moving the Oil Markets 120407

•Crude futures weakened Tuesday, continuing the near $10/barrel slide seen in the last week as market players looked for direction from OPEC's meeting in Abu Dhabi. At 11:04 GMT, Jan ICE Brent traded at $89.51/barrel, down 29 cents and NYMEX WTI was 71 cents lower at $88.60/b.

Would You Use Veggie Oil to Fuel Your Vehicle?

Vegetable oil can power your vehicle, but the effects on the environment are still unclear.