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January 30, 2007
13% of Americans not Heard of Global Warming - Report
Thirteen percent of Americans have never heard of global warming even though their country is the world's top source of greenhouse gases, a 46-country survey showed on Monday.
Announcing the 25th Aikido-Ai Memorial Weekend Retreat!
Join us May 25-28 for the 25th Aikido-Ai Memorial Weekend Retreat at the Mt. Baldy Zen Center. Five well respected, high-ranking aikido teachers bring you more than 150 years of combined experience.
Australian PM Plans to Restore Parched Rivers
Australian Prime Minister John Howard announced plans on Thursday to spend more than A$10 billion (US$7 billion) to restore the nation's ailing rivers, making dwindling water supplies his priority in an election year.
Australians to Swallow Unpalatable Recycled Water
All Australian states will be forced to use purified waste water for drinking if the current 100-year drought continues, said the premier of Queensland state on Monday, after being the first to approve recycled water.
Bank of America slashes gas price forecast 17%, cites weather
Bank of America energy analyst Robert Morris on Friday cut his 2007 annual gas price forecast 17% to $6.25/MMBtu, noting that this winter appears to be nearly 10% warmer than normal and is nearly half over.
Canada Aims to Set Emissions Targets in Early 2007
Canada aims to propose new greenhouse gas emissions targets for key industries, including oil and gas, by this spring for implementation in 2010-2015, Prime Minister Stephen Harper said Friday.
Canada Worried by Plunging Caribou Population
Could Russia's Gazprom go for National Grid-- It's not quite as far- fetched as it may seem
Are the Russians back in town, but this time with another takeover target in their sights? Since the start of the year, the amount of "chatter" on the political grapevine concerning Gazprom and its UK ambitions appears to have risen several notches. The state-owned Russian gas giant's interest in Centrica, the parent company of British Gas
Crude higher as funds add length, rebounding from strong losses
Market players do not expect prices to change too significantly ahead of the US inventory data due out Wednesday at 1530 GMT, and anticipate "sideways trading amidst thin volumes," until then. Both March WTI futures contracts, on NYMEX and ICE, traded 37 cents higher at $54.38/barrel.
Developing Powers Seen Critical to Climate Pact
Emerging giants China and India, among the world's top greenhouse gas producers, could undermine efforts to secure a new global climate change accord unless granted special treatment, top international officials said.
Dodge on Monetary Policy and Developments in the Global and Canadian Economies
The following are remarks by David Dodge, Governor of the Bank of Canada, to the Canadian Netherlands Business and Professional Association, and the European Union Chamber of Commerce.
Eco-protection or economic suicide for Europeans?
Europeans have set themselves up for a head-on collision between ecological purity and economic reality. With Congress poised to enact heavy-handed climate legislation, the U.S. may be doing likewise.
Energy crisis as power cuts loom for Scotland
SCOTLAND is on the brink of a power crisis after an accident at one of the country's biggest electricity plants massively reduced supplies to the national grid.
EPA, Industry Launch Agreement for Cleaner Outdoor Wood Heaters
Under a voluntary partnership agreement with EPA, key manufacturers have agreed to make cleaner outdoor wood-fired heaters available for purchase this year. Outdoor wood-burning units provide heat and hot water for homes and other buildings. The new heaters will be about 70 percent cleaner than models currently on the market.
EU renewables target needs binding efficiency goal-- Denmark
The European Commission's proposed binding target for 20% of all EU primary energy to come from renewables by 2020 could fail to achieve EU energy goals without a parallel target for energy efficiency, Hans Jorgen Koch, Denmark's deputy state secretary for energy and transport said Tuesday.
Global Warming-- Impacts of Temperature Increases Factsheet
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) will publish a report, the most complete overview of climate change science, in Paris on Feb. 2. It will guide policy makers combating global warming.
Green technology grows greenbacks
Major funding for a carbon dioxide sequestration project at the Energy and Environmental Research Center at UND could have a positive impact, EERC officials say, on the local economy as well as the global environment.
Greenhouse gas emissions caps may cause higher gas prices-- IECA
Congressional action to cap greenhouse gas emissions without establishing alternatives, such as nuclear energy, likely will result in higher prices for natural gas, the Industrial Energy Consumers of America said in a report released Monday.
Heavy spring US refinery work could spike gasoline prices-- Tesoro
US gasoline price spikes, similar to last year's sharp jumps as refiners' phased out MTBE, could occur again in 2007 due to "heavy" maintenance, according to Tesoro Chief Economist Lynn Westfall Monday. "I would not be surprised to see some similar spikes this year"
In a breakthrough that could make fuel cells practical for such small machines as lawnmowers and chainsaws, researchers have developed a new mechanism to efficiently control hydrogen fuel cell power.
Medicine-Taking Time
In a sharply worded op-ed
piece published last Friday, Washington Post
columnist Charles Krauthammer delivers a tough appraisal of our
nation´s energy policy. He provides some stark statistics
regarding America´s foreign oil consumption since the
early-1970s oil crisis. In 1973, we imported 35%
of our oil; today we import 60%.
Increase in sea levels will not hit Torness says Met Office
TORNESS nuclear power station may escape the worst of the rising seas caused by global warming, a Met Office report says. The report looked at the effects of climate change on sea levels and how it would affect British Energy's nuclear sites across the UK.
Landfill alternative could reduce solid waste, pollution; provide energy
"The bottom line is the cost of doing business is going to go up and up and up," Evans said. "Our option at this stage is to look at ways of disposing of garbage, hopefully in a way that does not fill our landfill up as fast."
Nuclear Plant Faces Action After Worker Contaminated
THE Dounreay nuclear complex is facing legal action for failing to store radioactive waste safely after an incident in which a worker was contaminated with plutonium.
Nuclear plant workers' union concerned about radiation leak response
It's a Saturday night and there's a leak from the nuclear reactor. It is up to one radiation protection technician to check out about 80 sites in the Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station, testing radiation and contamination levels.
Opposition to power plant builds steam
The House Energy and Natural Resources Committee will consider a multimillion-dollar tax break Monday morning for a Texas- based power company to build a coal-fired generating plant on Navajo land near Shiprock.
Oregon governor unveils climate change plan
Oregon Gov. Ted Kulongoski is calling on the state Legislature to adopt measures in the upcoming year that would foster energy independence and reduce global warming.
Kulongoski is calling for a renewable portfolio standard that would require that 25 percent of energy in the state come from renewable sources by 2025.
Organic Farming Seen Here to Stay
"There won't be the fossil fuels available to provide carbon fertilisers at a price which will make it (industrial farming) sustainable," Dimbleby, who heads Britain's largest organic certification body, said. "I think everything militates in favour of organic agriculture."
Power plant to run on cattle bones
Cattle bones and meat left over by abattoirs will be used to fuel a "clean'' power plant in Kintore, Aberdeenshire.
Private Sector Tops Green Power List
For the first time, a corporation leads EPA's national Top 25 list of green power purchasers. Wells Fargo & Company claimed the top spot, purchasing 550 million kilowatt hours annually. Organizations that purchase electricity generated from clean, renewable resources such as solar, wind, geothermal, biogas, biomass and low-impact hydro make up the quarterly list.
PSE&G Joins Global Warming Fight; Higher Bills Likely Unless We Conserve Energy
North Jersey's largest power supplier has joined the growing call for federal limits on greenhouse gas emissions.
Report Alleges Widespread Political Interference in Climate Science
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 012907
Solar activity was very low. Region 940 (S06E49) produced two B-class flares. Region has developed two new spots and now has a beta magnetic configuration.
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 013007
The geomagnetic field ranged from quiet to minor storm levels. Major and severe storm conditions were observed at high latitudes. The geomagnetic field is expected to be unsettled to active for the next three days.
Russia, India make deal on building reactors India would get four under the plan and access to oil..
Russian President Vladimir Putin offered Thursday to build four nuclear reactors for India and give it broader access to his country's oil projects.
Scientists Design Cheap, Effective Water Quality Test To Empower Communities
With an estimated 3 billion or more cases worldwide of waterborne disease caused by unsafe water supplies annually, scientists at a AAAS workshop presented the prototype of an inexpensive, easy-to-use water-quality diagnostic that allows communities in the developing world to monitor microbial contamination in their drinking water.
When the pace of change confronting an industry accelerates exponentially as is now the case in the power sector, participants inevitably want to understand the grand forces shaping the fate of their companies.
State Already on Path Bush Has Proposed for Energy
Educating consumers about conservation -- and the future of energy in America, a focal point of President Bush's State of the Union on Tuesday -- is a goal of the Kansas Energy Council, which has recommended to the Legislature that electric utilities be required to send out such information on a regular basis.
States urge Supreme Court to reject industry-backed air rule
New York and a dozen other states Friday urged the Supreme Court not to review a lower-court ruling that struck down one of the Bush administration's most controversial revisions to the New Source Review program.
The Answer is Blowing in the Wind
It is an island divided. The increasingly bitter debate over the giant Lewis wind farm will be rekindled this week as islanders wrestle again with the issue of whether an environmental price is worth paying for much-needed jobs and local investment.
The Stern Report, a Short Summary
There is still time to avoid the worst impacts of climate change, if we take strong action now.
The scientific evidence is now overwhelming: climate change is a serious global threat, and it demands an urgent global response.
US congressman says NRC security rule was 'industry influenced'
A US Nuclear Regulatory Commission rule designed to beef up security at
nuclear plants in response to the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on
New
York and Washington drew fire Monday from a leading House critic, who said
the
plan "reflects an inadequate, industry-influenced approach that sacrifices
security in favor of corporate profits."
US Consumers, Companies Finally Feeling Green
It took a war, a deadly hurricane season and an unusually mild winter, but US consumers seem ready to cut back on energy usage for good.
US crude stocks to build 1.8 million barrels-- analysts
US oil inventory data due to be released Wednesday by the US Energy Information Administration and American Petroleum Institute are expected to show a 1.8 million barrel build in commercial crude stocks, analysts surveyed by Platts said Tuesday.
Utah Energy Bills Offer Incentives
A bipartisan coalition of state lawmakers announced a plan Thursday to push through a package of energy legislation that would provide incentives for environmentally sound and efficient energy product and consumption.
Washington Lawmakers Considering Legislation for Biofuels Production Incentives
What's Moving the Oil Markets 013007
•Crude futures neared the $56/barrel level but failed to break through for the second time. "$56/barrel is a bit of a resistance level now. That's twice we've tried to break through but failed. The market ran out of steam a little as well as products losing value," a broker said.
Will Wal-Mart sell electricity one day-- Company enters power industry to cut costs at Texas stores
Wal-Mart's energy strategy goes far beyond selling squiggly lightbulbs. The world's largest retailer could one day sell the electricity, too.
World Leaders Urged to Act on Global Warming Study
World governments should take heed of the most wide-ranging scientific assessment so far of a human link to global warming and agree prompt action to slow the trend, the chairman of a UN climate report said on Monday.
World Watches as Scientists Finish Long-Awaited Global Warming Report
Wyoming has opportunities in California's 'green' energy market
Preliminary results of an ongoing feasibility study suggest that Wyoming's plan to send electricity generated from coal and wind to California is very competitive with that state's other option, which is to rely on more natural gas and local renewables to meet its ever-growing energy demand.
January 26, 2007
Aerosol Pollution Slows Down Winds And Reduces Rainfall
The winds that blow near the surface of the Earth have two beneficial effects: They provide a renewable source of clean energy and they evaporate water, helping rain clouds to build up. But aerosolized particles created from vehicle exhaust and other contaminants can accumulate in the atmosphere and reduce the speed of winds closer to the Earth's surface...
Another GHG-reduction draft nears list for Senate consideration
In their discussion draft of a bill to reduce greenhouse gases, senators Jeff Bingaman of New Mexico and Arlen Specter of Pennsylvania called for reducing emissions to 1,259 million metric tons by 2030. In that year, federal estimates say the US would produce 9,930 million mt without controls.
Bernanke on Long-term Fiscal Challenges Facing the US
The following is the testimony of Mr Ben S Bernanke, Chairman of the Board of Governors of the US Federal Reserve System, before the Committee on the Budget, US Senate.
An insatiable appetite for new cars, power stations being built at an alarming rate. Forget our efforts to go green - this is where the future of the world will be decided.
Bill may require Arizona to lower energy usage
Energy efficiency on the University of Arizona campus has been a priority for years, but further regulations from the Legislature would have to be accompanied by increased funding, a UA official said.
Bingaman pushes plan to reduce emissions
U.S. Sen. Jeff Bingaman is floating a draft bill among his colleagues that would create a mandatory cap-and-trade program to limit and regulate greenhouse-gas emissions.
Biomass and Biorefinery Deals 2007
BP to build five windfarms in U.S.
BP will start construction this year of five windfarms in the United States.
The projects, located in California, Colorado, North Dakota and Texas, will have combined capacity of 550 MW, according to BP Alternative Energy North America.
Calif. Regulators Mull Greenhouse Gas Standard
California utility regulators will vote Thursday on a measure that would require new power plants and electricity supply contracts to meet a performance standard for greenhouse gas emissions.
California ISO Asks Federal Government to Back New Plan for 'Greening the Grid'
In a precedent-setting move that could have national implications, the California Independent System Operator Corporation (California ISO) filed today with its regulator, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), to approve in concept a financing plan for transmission trunklines to remote locations in order to get green power from multiple users onto the grid.
California missing goal for renewables, says regulator
Electric utilities in the state of California are falling behind schedule in meeting a deadline to source 20% of their power from renewables by 2010.
California PUC approves GHG emissions performance standard plan
The California Public Utilities Commission on Thursday approved a plan outlining steps to comply with a new greenhouse gas emissions standard law that would limit purchases of power from traditional coal-fired generation.
Canada promises $1.5 billion for renewables
Prime Minister Stephen Harper says the ‘ecoENERGY Renewable Initiative’ will include $1.48 billion in ‘ecoENERGY for Renewable Power’ to boost wind, biomass, small hydro and ocean energy, with a ten-year incentive program to fund projects constructed over the next four years.
Canadian and US Economic Update 012407
Canada’s CPI Inflation Rate Edged Up to 1.6% in December, BoC’s Core Rate Slipped Back to 2%
Retail Sales Surprisingly Weak
Increase in Index of US Leading Indicators Consistent with Slow to Moderate Growth
Clean Energy Investments More Than Double in 2006
Venture capital and private equity investments in clean energy companies increased by 167 percent in 2006, according to investment analysts at New Energy Finance Limited. These clean energy investments increased from $2.7 billion in 2005 to $7.1 billion in 2006, driven mainly by a surge of investments in biofuels in the United States.
Clean Energy Projects Turn Landfills into Community Assets
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recognized the accomplishments of numerous landfill methane partners who are generating clean, renewable energy while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Climate Change Seen Fanning Conflict and Terrorism
Global warming could exacerbate the world's rich-poor divide and help to radicalise populations and fan terrorism in the countries worst affected, security and climate experts said on Wednesday.
Colorado to Take Bold Steps in Renewable Energy
Following in the footsteps of re-elected Republican Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger of California, newly elected Democratic Governor Bill Ritter from Colorado pledged to establish "....Colorado as a national leader in renewable energy" in his first State of the State address on January 11th.
Commentary - Creating an Atmosphere for Improving Electricity Sector Efficiency
If I ever write a novel on the restructuring of the US electric industry, I would call it Catch 22X. The original novel detailed the circular logic of war; my rendition would describe the circular logic that characterizes the electric industry restructuring and the real life characters that embellished it.
A Central Texas lawmaker wants to put the brakes on building new coal-fired power plants until the environmental and health effects have been sufficiently studied.
Despite jury verdict, MMS says Kerr-McGee paid all royalties owed
In a lift to Kerr-McGee, the US Minerals Management Service said Thursday it still believes the company paid all royalties it owed the government, despite a federal jury verdict claiming the opposite.
Dounreay Given Go-Ahead to Construct GBP100m Plant to Deal With Waste
The UK Atomic Energy Authority yesterday won permission to construct a GBP100m plant to deal with the most hazardous radioactive waste at Dounreay, but financial shortfalls could delay the work.
Driven to Save Energy and the Environment - January 12, 2007 - Feedback
Ethanol takes too much energy to produce. Skip the steps it takes to make ethanol and just convert cars to natural gas instead of using the natural gas to distill the ethanol. We have a lot of reserves of natural gas in the US and it is 85 percent cleaner burning than gasoline.
In his Tuesday-night speech, President Bush said little about it as an alternative energy source, but Minnesota is among the leading states at pulling watts from the wind.
Energy needs more money in U.S., says federal agency
In 2005, the United States derived 6% of its energy from renewables, the same level as in 1973, according to an analysis by the Government Accountability Office.
Europeans expect solar to be a key energy source in future
Personal interviews with 25,000 Europeans indicate that 80% of EU citizens support solar energy and 71% favour wind energy.
Feds-- Details of ISP snooping haven't been decided
The Bush administration hasn't settled on what data it would like Internet service providers to retain about their subscribers or for how long, a U.S. Department of Justice attorney said Tuesday.
Feds fine ship operator for oil discharge
A U.S.-based ship operator will pay a $1 million criminal fine and $500,000 for community service for deliberate acts of pollution involving four car carrier ships, the U.S. Department of Justice said.
Feds offer $17 million in clean fuel, technology grants
The U.S. Department of Energy will make available $17 million in grants to improve automobile efficiency and reduce the nation´s dependence on foreign sources of oil.
Fueling Texas' Future - January 10, 2007 -Feedback
TXU management is literally between 'a rock and a hard place.' Time does not allow the lengthy permitting and construction of nuclear facilities. Economics argue strongly against natural gas or IGCC.
Grid-Tied or Battery-Based RE Systems?
Do grid-tied systems really perform the environmental duties that proponents say they do? This week's guest says that renewable energy systems tied to the grid without battery back up are not reducing the burning of fossil resources to create electricity. Battery-based systems are the only way to impact the base electrical load, says Bill Von Brethorst, President of Planetary Systems Inc.
Guidelines explain how to reduce impact of turbines on birds and bats
Draft guidelines have been produced to reduce the impact of wind turbines in California on birds and bats.
High-Efficiency Toilets to Get WaterSense Nod
The Environmental Protection Agency is releasing a final specification for the latest generation of water-saving, high-efficiency toilets. Those that use less than 1.3 gallons per flush and meet performance standards for quality will qualify for EPA's WaterSense label to help consumers make informed buying decisions about water-efficient products.
Increasing Renewable Energy in U.S. Can Solve Global Warming
The alternative scenario in this report, which urgently calls for new policy and standards, corrects the record on nukes and coal.
Ireland to invest Eur8.5 billion on energy initiatives
Ireland's Minister for Finance Brian Cowen outlined an Eur8.5 billion ($11 billion) investment program in the energy sector as part of the National Development Plan, 2007-2013, launched late Tuesday. The NDP outlines an expenditure program of Eur184 billion during the period, including Eur54.68 billion in economic infrastructure.
Magnetically-Levitated Vertical Axis Wind Turbine
It is designed for home installation in urban settings, is only 4 feet high, is inaudible, doesn't mind a little turbulence, and gets a 200% increase in energy due to the 'roof effect'. It works in wind speeds from 5 to 100 mph and produces electricity for 3.5 cents per kW.
Mercury Debate Reaches Feverish Pitch
The debate over mercury emissions is once again reaching a feverish pitch. Two recent scientific reports say that mercury levels near some coal-fired power plants are much greater than previously thought, giving critics of the current administration's plan to curb such toxins the ammo they need to change the regulatory protocol.
Moratorium sought on coal-fired plants
A state legislator has filed a measure to place a two-year moratorium on the building of coal-fired electric plants in Kansas.
New US renewables target needs cellulosic technology-- lobbyist
The US ethanol industry will need second-generation cellulosic technology, along with higher sales of ethanol-rich gasoline blends, to meet US President Bush's expanded goal for renewable fuels use, according to ethanol lobbyist the Renewable Fuels Association.
NRC's McGaffigan says US should start over on waste disposal
The US government should start over in its effort to develop a long-term solution to nuclear waste disposal by turning over management of the project to a government-owned corporation, Nuclear Regulatory Commission member Edward McGaffigan said Monday.
Ofgem Proposes New Approach to Green Energy Funding
UK Energy regulator Ofgem has criticized a key part of the UK government's energy strategy, calling for a revision of the country's approach to funding renewable energy generation.
Precious metals prices decline in New York
Precious metals abruptly ended their upward spike and were heading downward on the New York futures exchanges Wednesday morning, with palladium the only one keeping its head above water.
"Mr. Bush went ahead in a situation as if there were
nuclear weapons, but I think that decision was wrong."
Japan's defense
minister on Wednesday said US President George W. Bush was wrong to invade
Iraq and warned that Tokyo could not automatically renew its air force
mission to the war-torn country.
US President George W. Bush will announce his
intention to double the size of the country's Strategic Petroleum Reserve to
1.5 billion barrels over the next two decades to "provide an additional
layer of protection for our nation's energy security."
US Energy Secretary
Samuel Bodman said Tuesday that the nation's emergency crude oil stock,
which currently holds 691 million barrels and has the ability to hold 727
million barrels, would move from 55 days of net import protection to 97 days
of net import protection with the expansion.
Renewable Energy Industry Reacts to State of the Union
Proponents of the renewable energy industry quickly reacted to U.S. President George Bush's recent State of the Union Address, specifically those portions of his plans addressing solar and wind energy, cutting U.S. gas consumption 20 percent by 2017, raising the fuel standard for renewable fuels, and increasing battery research for hybrid cars.
Renewables Making Gains in Congress
The Democratically controlled House of Representatives passed the Creating Long-Term Energy Alternatives for the Nation (CLEAN) Act last night, a bill that will repeal nearly $14 billion in tax breaks for oil and natural gas companies and put that money toward renewable fuels and energy efficiency programs.
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 012607
The majority of the ejecta was directed off the east limb with an approximate plane of sky speed of 1260 km/s. Solar Activity Forecast: Solar activity is expected to be low with a chance for isolated M-class activity from the approaching region on the east limb. The geomagnetic field is expected to be mostly quiet on 26 and 27 January. Unsettled to active conditions are possible on 28 January.
Scientists Map Air Pollution Using Corn Grown In U.S. Fields
Scientists at UC Irvine have mapped fossil fuel air pollution in the United States by analyzing corn collected from nearly 70 locations nationwide.
Soft Landing of World Economies Sustains Growth of Markets in 2007
Despite concerns over global inflation, the struggling US dollar and a potential bust in the commodities market, the US and global stock markets should benefit from an economic “soft landing” in 2007 and are poised for further growth, said leading financial experts at the fifth annual Dow Jones Indexes/ STOXX Ltd. Global Economic Outlook.
Solar advances could create 3,000 jobs in state by 2020
The state of Arizona could create 3,000 new jobs and significantly reduce carbon emissions if the public and private sector adopt new solar energy technologies, according to the state Department of Commerce.
The Future of Renewable Energy is NOW
Don't miss POWER-GEN Renewable Energy & Fuels- the industry’s premier event covering the most important trends and issues impacting the renewable energy market.
The Reality of European Liberalization - January 17, 2007 - Feedback
While it is literally be true that some state regulators in the U.S. adopted retail restructuring, at the urging of large industrial customers, and Enron, among others, retail restructuring is hardly the norm in the US.
The energy business liberalization in US and Europe will be bumpy road but inevitable.
TXU cancels Miller's coal plant deposition
U.N. Climate Report Will Shock the World, Chairman Says
U.S. Congress passes legislation to promote renewables
The U.S. House of Representatives has voted 264 to 163 to pass H.R. 6, called the C.L.E.A.N. Energy Act of 2007.
The legislation would close tax loopholes for large oil companies and recover royalties from oil and gas produced in public waters, and would shift US$14 billion to investments in renewables and energy efficient technologies.
U.S. Regulator Says He's More Certain Energy Issues Best Left Up to States
A federal energy regulator from Arizona said Monday he is even more supportive of state's rights in energy issues now that he's serving in Washington.
Marc Spitzer, now one of five members of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, told a Tucson energy industry conference that "a lot of the heavy lifting" for the nation's energy policy must be done at the state level.
US and Canadian Economic Update 012607
US Existing Home Sales Posted a Larger-than-Expected Decline in December
Initial Claims Rebound from Very Low Readings
Canada: Next Week’s November GDP Report to Pull Data Together
US climate change bill may take two years, new president-- Democrat
It may take two years and a new president before a mandatory cap and trade system for greenhouse gas emissions can be passed by the US Congress and enacted into law, House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Chairman Henry Waxman said Tuesday.
US retail gasoline prices would rise under Bush plan-- marketers
US retail gasoline prices would rise if a White House plan to cut gasoline consumption by 20% in the next decade comes to pass, according to the Petroleum Marketers Association of America.
US senator dismisses call for lifting of ethanol tariff
US Senate Finance Committee Chairman Charles Grassley dismissed Friday a suggestion by Energy Secretary Samuel Bodman that the tax on most ethanol imports into the US would need to be lifted if the US were to reach its goal of blending 35 billion gallons of renewable and alternative fuels in motor gasoline by 2017.
W.Va. governor asks peers to support national energy independence
The nation's governors are being asked to contribute $25,000 each to support a program to reduce the country's dependence on imported oil and to take a detailed look at the energy resources within their states with the aim of moving closer to national energy independence.
Warming to Raise Seas for 1,000 Years
World sea levels will keep rising for more than 1,000 years even if governments manage to slow a projected surge in temperatures this century blamed on greenhouse gases, a draft U.N. climate report says. The study, by a panel of 2,500 scientists who advise the United Nations
...Watchdog Urges Overhaul of Green Energy Scheme
Belfast --Publishing figures which reveal that the cost of the so-called "renewables obligation" is at least eight times greater than other schemes designed to combat climate change, Ofgem called for a wholesale shake-up of the current arrangements.
What's Moving the Oil Markets 012507
•Global crude futures rose slightly Thursday,
consolidating recent gains above $55/barrel after rising on Wednesday in
reaction to US weekly oil inventory data. At 1109 GMT, March ICE Brent
futures changed hands 22 cents higher at $55.65/barrel.
•After getting close to the dipping below the psychologically important
$50/barrel mark on January 17
The noise made by wind turbines is the equivalent of background noise in a conference room, an engineer testified Monday night at a meeting before the McLean County Zoning Board of Appeals.
Wind Power Capacity in U.S. Increased 27% in 2006 and is Expected to Grow an Additional 26% in 2007
Wind power generating capacity increased by 27 percent in 2006 and is expected to increase an additional 26 percent in 2007, proving wind is now a mainstream option for new power generation, according to a market forecast released today by the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA). Wind's exponential growth reflects the nation's increasing demand for clean, safe and domestic energy, and continues to attract both private and public sources of capital.
Xcel joins call for greenhouse gas limits-- CEO says quick decision will aid long-term plans
The new Democratic-controlled Congress is expected to pass laws limiting the greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to global warming. And Dick Kelly, chief executive of Minnesota's largest electricity producer, says: Bring it on.
London (UK)Green will soon be the only colour for developers: the Government has ordered that all new housing schemes must be "zero- carbon" within a decade - which means they must produce as much energy as they consume, thus helping to cut the carbon-dioxide emissions that cause global warming.
January 23, 2007
A Green Building Revolution Is Hitting Home…And Office-- Report
Eco-friendly construction is on the rise, from single-family houses and planned communities to schools, hospitals and other large built environments.
A solar solution for world power
In the desert of North Africa is a vast source of energy that holds the promise of a carbon-free, nuclear-free electrical future for the whole of Europe, if not the world.
Arizona report touts solar energy's bright future
Arizona could generate up to 1,000 megawatts of solar electricity and create 3,000 jobs by 2020 by supporting solar-energy technologies and boosting the state's solar-electric industry, a state report says.
Asia leaders sign accord to cut dependence on fossil fuels
Leaders from 16 Asian nations signed an energy security accord Monday that they said would reduce the region's dependence on fossil fuels and promote the use of alternative energy sources. Japan, one of the signatories, pledged $2 billion in aid to Asian countries to improve energy efficiency and adopt technologies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Banks are urged not to finance coal power
A new front in the fight to slow down global warming follows trails of money, not wisps of polluting chemicals, straight to the doorsteps of banks.
A coalition of environmental groups, including Boston-based Ceres, is demanding that banks reject loan requests for projects that emit high rates of greenhouse gases, which contribute to global warming.
Bill seeks to eliminate more traditional US energy tax incentives
A day following a House vote to roll back a total of $13-$14 billion in tax incentives and royalty relief to the US oil and gas industry, US Senator John Kerry, Democrat-Massachusetts, and Representative Maurice Hinchey, Democrat-New York, introduced a bill seeking even deeper cuts in energy tax breaks--to the tune of $25 billion.
Canada announces energy efficiency plan
Canada's Conservative government announced Sunday it will invest 300 million Canadian dollars (245 million U.S. dollars) over four years to encourage homeowners, businesses and industry to use energy more efficiently.
Canada Revives Renewable Energy Support
Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced C$1.5 billion (US$1.3 billion) in funding for renewable energy on Friday but the opposition Liberals said the Conservative government was just resurrecting their old environmental programs.
Capacity of China's straw-fueled power plants reaches 1.2 mln kw
Thirty-four straw-burning power plants were being built at the end of 2006 in China's rural areas with a total installed capacity of 1.2 million kw to help local farmers generate extra income.
China to become world's largest wind power producer
China is expected to overtake Germany and the United States to become the world's largest wind power producer by 2020, a report forecast.
Climate Change Seen Harsh in Latam, Africa, Canada
Central and South America, central Africa and northern Canada are likely to be hardest hit by climate change in the period from 2071 to 2100, an index compiled by scientists at Swiss university ETH showed.
In response to an analysis by ConsumerPowerline finding that businesses nationwide are potentially leaving billions of dollars in energy tax savings on the table, the company has designed a series of online seminars to help owners, managers and financial officers identify, apply for and benefit from high value, energy tax deductions
Crude surges above $53 barrel on stronger heating oil demand
Global crude futures prices continued to climb Monday after cold weather in the US sparked heating oil demand. At 1057 GMT, the March ICE Brent futures contract changed hands at $53.76/bbl, up 32 cents/bbl
Energy, energy security to be priority in Bush speech-- spokesman
"Energy and energy security" are policy areas that are of "foremost
concern for Americans" and will get prominent attention in President Bush's
State of the Union address Tuesday night, White House spokesman Tony Snow told
reporters Monday.
Ethanol use has Environmental Downsides
Biofuels have the potential to lessen the impact of human civilization on the environment, but even the greenest of renewable fuels production is not without its dirty underbelly, experts said.
Ethanol use in gasoline blending increased 35% in 2006-- API
At the same time, residual fuel oil deliveries dropped 26.9% to a yearly average of 673,000 b/d, a collapse API attributed to industrial and electric utility facilities with fuel-switching capabilities making major shifts to natural gas instead.
Experts Say Alps Glaciers Will Melt by 2050
Highlights of Bush Environment Programs
These are the highlights of US programs announced in the last year aimed at reducing US dependence on foreign sources of oil, as detailed by the White House and the federal Energy Department.
The Democrat-led U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation Jan. 18 that would repeal $14 billion in tax breaks and forgiven royalties for major oil companies, while shifting the money to a fund that would invest in clean, renewable alternative fuels and energy conservation.
IEA invites China, India to join as observers in 2007
The International Energy Agency has invited major consumers China and India to attend its meetings as observers, and their first-ever attendance could happen in the next few months
Indonesia to build 10 coal-fired power plants
Indonesia's state-run electricity company PT Perusahaan Listrik Negara (PLN) Tuesday reached agreement with 10 private firms on the joint construction of 10 coal-fired power plants worth 985 million U.S. dollars.
Industry executives call on Bush to accept action against climate change
Chief executives of 10 major corporations urged Congress on Monday to require limits on greenhouse gases this year, contending voluntary efforts to combat climate change are inadequate.
Iran denies IAEA inspectors' entry
Iran has decided to deny the entry of 38 inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) , the semi-official ISNA news agency reported on Monday.
Lifestream Watersystems Inc. has provided three brackish water desalination systems to a major oil producing company to yield 255,000 gallons per day of high quality water for a new community of up to 3000 people to support a decade long project of oil production in a remote area.
LS Power Announces Green Power and Carbon Capture Initiative
LS Power's activities related to the development of green energy sources and projects that will capture, offset or reduce carbon dioxide (CO2), methane and related emissions. Polaria will seek to identify and develop investment opportunities in infrastructure and technologies related to carbon capture, offset and storage, as well as select renewable and efficient energy projects.
Massachusetts joins climate change initiative
Massachusetts became the eighth state to sign the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative when it pledged Jan. 18 to reduce their emissions of gases suspected of contributing to global warming.
MIT Releases Major Report on Geothermal Energy
A comprehensive new MIT-led study of the potential for geothermal energy within the United States has found that mining the huge amounts of heat that reside as stored thermal energy in the Earth's hard rock crust could supply a substantial portion of the electricity the United States will need in the future, probably at competitive prices and with minimal environmental impact.
Navajo Nation, power firm seek tax break for plant
State legislators will consider a tax break request from the Navajo Nation and Sithe Global Power to build a coal-burning power plant southwest of Shiprock.
Project to cost more yet-- Foes of proposed coal-fired sites say price to be $4 billion or more
Foes of Duke Energy Corp.'s plan to build a pair of coal-fired units west of Charlotte said the future cost of potential environmental regulations and the hidden costs of financing could add another $1 billion or more to the project.
Report Has 'Smoking Gun' on Climate
Human-caused global warming is here, visible in the air, water and melting ice, and is destined to get much worse in the future, an authoritative global scientific report will warn next week.
"The smoking gun is definitely lying on the table as we speak," said top U.S. climate scientist Jerry Mahlman
...Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 012307
Solar activity is expected to be very low to low. C-class flares are possible in Region 939. The geomagnetic field is expected to be quiet to unsettled.
Thinning trees, cutting fossil-fuel use
After nearly 90 years of sawing pine and Douglas fir logs into lumber, Rough & Ready Lumber Co. is branching into the energy business, building a $5 million plant to burn logging debris and to produce electricity that it can sell at a "green tag" premium to the regional power grid.
UN Climate Panel to Step up Warnings on Climate
A UN panel on climate change is set to give its strongest warning yet that human use of fossil fuels is stoking global warming, informed sources said on Friday.
US Carbon Market Takes Step Closer to Reality
Carbon market developers hope a potential billion-dollar US market will take a step closer to reality now that major companies are urging legislation to set mandatory curbs on the gases linked to global warming.
US power grid could accommodate plug-in electric vehicles-- Report
The US electricity grid is "underutilized most of the time" and could support most light-duty vehicles as plug-in electric hybrids, a report by the US Department of Energy's Pacific Northwest National Laboratory has found.
US utilities, industry seek mandatory, market-based climate plan
Utilities Duke Energy, FPL Group, PNM Resources and PG&E joined other industries and environmental groups Monday to call on federal policymakers to take up the "urgent need" for a mandatory climate change policy with an economy-wide, market-based approach to limit industry's greenhouse emissions.
USEC says 2006 net income jump on higher uranium prices, margins
Bethesda, Maryland-based USEC Monday said it expects its 2006 net income to be roughly $105 million, up sharply from its previous guidance of $65 million to $75 million.
What's Moving the Oil Markets 012307
•Global crude futures bounced back on Tuesday from a
drop in prices late Monday with colder weather supporting demand for heating
oil. "Today is just a bounce back from the dip yesterday. The cold weather
is keeping prices firmer for now," a London-based broker said.
•The cooler weather in the US last week pushed energy prices upwards, with
natural gas futures taking the lead, brokers said. However, on Tuesday, a
weak February NYMEX WTI futures expiration as well as forecasts of
temperatures turning milder in the near future, helped crude futures lose
also $2/barrel from the intra-day highs.
•The cooler weather is unlikely to extend far into February, private weather
forecaster WSI
Why We Can't Grow Our Way Out of Energy Dependence
The new Congress has raised the expectation bar, unfortunately, with the same fuzzy thinking. Quick fit artists are back. Ethanol is not a panacea for energy security or energy dependence. Raising the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) to 15 billion gallons gives us an E10 world, and not much energy savings or environmental benefit.
World Faces Megafire Threat -- Australian Expert
They burn like fire hurricanes on fronts stretching sometimes thousands of kilometres and with a ferocity that explodes trees and makes them impossible to extinguish short of rain or divine intervention.
January 19, 2007
77% of Americans Say U.S. Must Do More to Spur Green Technologies
Only one in four American voters today believe the nation is doing enough to promote and utilize alternative or "green" technologies to reduce our nation's reliance on foreign energy sources, according to a new poll by Zogby International and TechNet's Green Tech Task Force.
Alaska governor proposes incentives to build gas pipeline
Alaska's new governor, Sarah Palin, said Wednesday that she would propose new incentives for developers of a North Slope gas pipeline and for producing companies that own leases and control 35 trillion cubic feet of gas in northern Alaska.
Bold U.S. Energy Goal Put Forward on Capitol Hill
A bipartisan group of Senators and Representatives have re-introduced the 25x'25 House and Senate Concurrent Resolutions calling for a new national renewable energy goal: 25% of the nation's energy supply from renewable sources by 2025.
Clean-Energy Entrepreneurs Are Drawn to Europe The Business of Green
Making solar panels on the cloudy Welsh coast may seem an odd choice for a politician turned investor like Robert Hertzberg, who hails from a sunny and environmentally aware state, California, and hobnobs with Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Climate Future Results Show Sweltering Britain
Costs for energy plants again surpass estimate
A pair of coal--fired power units will cost hundreds of millions of dollars more than the $3 billion Duke Energy predicted because financing costs were left out of the original estimate, a utility official told state regulators Wednesday.
DOE won't drop repository work due to budget constraints-- Sproat
The US Department of Energy has no plans to "zero out" any aspect of its nuclear waste repository program as it "rebalances" the program's fiscal 2007 budget to reflect funding under a year-long continuing budget resolution, DOE waste program director Edward Sproat said Wednesday.
Dominion searches for ways to meet demand
Faced with an enormous gap between the population growth in Northern Virginia and the amount of electricity available, Dominion Virginia Power has proposed building a line to bring in power in from other states.
Drowned Town Resurfaces as Albania Dries up
It is the clearest evidence yet that Albanians are in for a further spell of power blackouts.
Meteorologists say only one third of the average quantity of rain fell in the area from September to December. It was the worst dry spell since 1915 when a rainless summer caused famine.
Duke argues for coal plants-- Public can have its say on power plan
Duke Energy is making its final push to build the state's biggest power plant project in two decades.
In public hearings scheduled to begin today in Raleigh, the Charlotte utility will try to persuade state regulators to approve twin power plants that are estimated to cost $3 billion.
Energy efficiency could cut projected load growth in Texas-- Study
The Electric Reliability Council of Texas region could slash its projected 2.3% annual load growth by more than 80% -- and eliminate the need for some 20 new power plants -- if Texas required utilities in ERCOT to boost energy efficiency efforts, a new report said.
Kansas State energy officials Tuesday urged lawmakers to adopt measures to increase wind energy and promote conservation.
EPA Helps Farmers Turn Livestock Waste into Wealth
EPA and its partners have released guidance that can help farmers manage livestock waste and boost farm earnings while reducing greenhouse gases. Processing livestock manure under controlled conditions can produce biogas, a source of greenhouse gas emissions. Farmers also benefit because the biogas can be used to generate electricity.
EU wants radical shift towards renewables
Europe wants a radical shift towards renewable energy and the European Commission has urged its members to support a common energy policy that diversifies the continent’s sources of energy.
Exelon Nuclear Sets All-Time Generation Record in 2006
Exelon Nuclear produced 131.4 billion kilowatt hours in 2006, the most electricity ever produced by the nation's largest fleet of nuclear energy plants.
First Annual USGS Streamflow Summary Available
This past year has produced some record-breaking high streamflow conditions in the Northeast, as well as some near-record lows in other areas of the country, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)
From Dairy Waste To Electric Power
Cow manure, waste silage, cheese whey are waste products to some, but viable energy sources to enterprising Clarkson University researchers who are helping area farmers meet their own energy needs.
Gas producers say boosting supply must be part of climate debate
The head of the Natural Gas Supply Association warned Wednesday that any
new US policies to restrict carbon emissions could lead to increased reliance
on natural gas at a time when new resources are "artifically constrained" by
federal access policies.
Germans Told to Stay Indoors as Hurricane Nears
Germans were told to stay indoors and many schools across the country closed early on Thursday as a rare hurricane bore down on the country, cutting air traffic at its biggest airport by half.
Global Warming Dissenters Few at US Weather Meeting
Joe D'Aleo was a rare voice of dissent this week at the American Meteorological Society's annual meeting in San Antonio.
Huge Growth Potential for the Fuel Cells Market due to Energy Efficiency and Environmental Concerns
Consistent R&D efforts are expected to yield dividends as fuel cells emerge as the preferred distributed generation technology, and to play a dominant role in redefining the European energy industry in the future.
Whenever I come across an item having to do with the Doomsday Clock at the University of Chicago, I smile because I´m reminded of a terrific movie, Stanley Kubrick´s 1964 Cold War satire Dr. Strangelove, Or How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb.
Q: How can wind energy provide a large share of a utility or a country's electricity supply if you can't count on the wind to blow all the time?
Letter from Defenders of Wildlife
A New Congress, A New Opportunity
Our addiction to dirty fossil fuels is driving polar bears to the brink of
extinction. Tell your Representative to vote YES on the CLEAN Energy Act of
2007 (H.R. 6) for a cleaner, safer energy future. A vote is scheduled for
tomorrow!
Long Term US Mortgage Rates Highest Since November 2006
Freddie Mac (NYSE:FRE) yesterday released the results of its Primary Mortgage Market Surveyâ (PMMSâ) in which the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) averaged 6.23 percent with an average 0.4 point for the week ending January 18, 2007, up from last week when it averaged 6.21 percent. Last year at this time, the 30-year FRM averaged 6.10 percent.
Massachusetts Governor Patrick to OK fees for power plants
Governor Deval Patrick is expected to announce today that Massachusetts will rejoin a group of other Northeast states that plan to combat global warming by charging power plants for emissions of so-called greenhouse gases.
Minnesota governor urges lawmakers to back his energy initiative
Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty on Wednesday urged state legislators to approve his "next generation energy initiative," which calls on the state's utilities to cut electric sales by 1.5%/year and to use carbon dioxide emission offsets for any new fossil-fueled power plants.
Minnesota Legislature-- 'Stars are aligned' for passage of energy proposal
What a difference a year makes.
What changed? Darned near everything.
New Developments in Sustainable Technology
Sustainable technology is making significant advances across several industries -- and that's encouraging news for a nation that is largely dependent upon countries outside of the United States for energy. So exactly what kind of sustainable technology is out there?
New Flywheel Technology Nears Commercial Production
The California Energy Commission (CEC) recently announced that a 100-kilowatt (kW) scale-power flywheel energy storage system designed to enhance the state's electricity grid is now one step closer to commercialization.
New Nuclear Plants Coming to the United States?
In December 2006, Progress Energy Florida (PEF) became the newest utility to throw its support behind a new nuclear plant, announcing it will seek the necessary approvals to construct a facility in Levy County, Florida, near its existing Crystal River nuclear plant. PEF joins a line containing a dozen other companies and consortiums seeking permits and the necessary approvals for over thirty new reactors.
New U.S. governor promotes renewable energy
The first Democratic governor in the state of Colorado in eight years wants to move ahead on renewable energies.
“Our calling card to the 21st century must be the New Energy Economy,” Bill Ritter said in his ‘State of the State’ address.
North Dakota's future is energy
The future of North Dakota is energy. And leaders at both the state and national level say that future is bright.
NRC seeks to terror-proof nuclear plants
While federal regulators say the nation's nuclear power plants could probably withstand a Sept. 11th-style attack, future reactors will be specifically designed to survive a crash by a large aircraft.
OPEC members must comply better with output cuts-- Ramirez
Venezuelan Oil Minister Rafael Ramirez said Thursday that OPEC would work to achieve full compliance with oil output cuts already agreed upon by the producers group before members sit down to talk about any new reductions.
Organic Magnets Open Vast Possibilities
Researchers at the University of Victoria have discovered new lightweight magnets that could be used in making everything from extra-thin magnetic computer memory to ultra-light spacecraft parts.
Pennsylvania Governor Invests $2.2 Million For Innovative Water, Wastewater Projects
Governor Edward G. Rendell recently announced the investment of $2.2 million in Pennsylvania’s municipalities, municipal authorities and public school districts that will help to improve public health and improve utility service.
Philippines to promote use of biofuels as alternative energy
Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo formally signed into law Wednesday a bill promoting the use of biofuels as an alternative energy source to lessen the country's dependence on import of oil, said the official Philippine News Agency.
Platinum futures rally, gold and palladium follow firmer tone
Once again the weaker tone in the energy complex and the firmer dollar are giving gold a much needed boost on the COMEX, with the nearby February gold contract gaining $1.20 to reach $634.50/oz at 10:12 am. However, silver has parted company with gold and has been moving mostly downward.
Power Plant Opponents Target Investors
"...as the world's largest producer and exporter of
petroleum, Saudi Arabia is keenly aware that the continued availability of
reliable and affordable energy is essential to future economic growth and
prosperity."
Saudi Arabian oil
minister Ali Naimi
Regulators open door for Ohio utilities to promote 'green' energy
Customers of Ohio's two largest utilities soon will be able to show financial support for the development of renewable energy facilities, if a proposal by the Ohio Consumers' Counsel is approved.
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 011807
The geomagnetic field was unsettled to active as a coronal hole high speed stream continues to be geoeffective. Solar wind speed at ACE is currently elevated around 650 km/s. The greater than 2 MeV electron flux at geosynchronous orbit reached high levels again today.
Schwarzenegger Signs Calif. Carbon Emissions Cut
Arnold Schwarzenegger signed an executive order Thursday to reduce carbon emissions from transportation fuels, a move intended to widen the development and use of alternative vehicle fuels in the nation's biggest state.
Senators' bills, another try at limiting GHG from power plants
Legislation setting greenhouse gas limits seems to be picking up support in the Democrat-controlled Congress. Two Senate bills have been introduced in Congress recently.
Six large US power generators throw support behind GHG cap bill
Six of the largest US electricity generators Wednesday offered support for a global-warming bill that would require the nation's power sector to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 25% below projected business-as-usual levels by 2020.
Support for renewables drops in Europe, suggests survey
Europeans are increasing reluctant to pay a premium for renewable energy, according to a survey conducted for the European Commission.
Supreme Court Won't Hear PG&E Appeal of Diablo Canyon Nuclear Storage Ruling
The U.S. Supreme Court announced today that it will not review a lower court ruling, which requires the federal Nuclear Regulatory Commission and Pacific Gas and Electric Co. to analyze the environmental impacts of a terrorist attack on an aboveground storage facility for highly radioactive used fuel at Diablo Canyon nuclear power plant.
The New Energy Movement Introduces Draft Legislation for New Energy Bill to U.S. Congress
A spirited grassroots nonprofit organization, The New Energy Movement (NEM), has quietly made remarkable progress in its mission to educate the public and policymakers about the need to support emerging new energy technologies.
The Reality of European Liberalization
The European Union is on the last leg of a whirlwind race to liberalize its utility sector. In July, the continent will enter its final phase of "all-out" retail competition in the electricity and natural gas sectors.
A penisula long thought to be part of Greenland's mainland turned out to be an island when a glacier retreated.
U.S. Democrats introduce energy plan to promote renewables
The Democratic chairmen of two committees in the U.S. Congress have introduced legislation to curtail tax incentives for oil and gas companies and to invest funds in renewable energies.
UK government launches consultation on carbon offset standard
"Offsetting isn't the answer to climate change," Miliband said. "The first step should always be to see how we can avoid and reduce emissions -- through thinking about how we use energy in our homes and businesses, and the way we travel."
US retail gasoline could near $2 gal by late Jan-early Feb-- EIA
Retail gasoline prices may continue to fall nationally and get close to $2/gal by late January or early February, the US Energy Information Administration said Thursday.
Northeast: Cold air has moved into this region
Southeast: Without the help of a definitively positive PNA and/or negative NAO, cold air will be entrenched across the Southeast through the weekend
North-Central: Brutal Arctic Air (-24°F in Aberdeen, SD this morning) has engulfed the region and has been getting all of the headlines
South-Central: After an ice storm hit many parts of Oklahoma and North Texas this weekend, highs in Southeast Texas have been and will remain in the 30's for consecutive days, with a hazardous ice storm possible tonight
Northwest: Despite some snows and an occasional shower, the drier Winter regime
Southwest: Extreme cold conditions plagued the interior valleys this weekend,
Vermont senator introduces greenhouse gas bill
Sanders, a member of the Senate environment committee, said he would introduce the Global Warming Pollution Reduction Act, which will call for an 80 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. The reduction will be based on 1990 emission levels.
What's Moving the Oil Markets 011907
•Global crude futures recovered Friday in line with
short covering ahead of the weekend despite bearish inventory data. EIA
reported an unexpectedly high 6.8 million bbl build in US crude stocks, the
catalyst for a pummeling across the petroleum sector.
•WTI prices Thurs briefly slipped below the $50/barrel, the first time since
May 25, 2005, but the market rebounded quickly on short-covering. At 1131
GMT the March ICE Brent futures contract changed hands at $52.22/bbl, up 47
cts/bbl from yesterday's settlement.
•The presidents of Iran and Venezuela called for a cut in the OPEC's oil
production to stop the steep oil price slide though Algeria's oil minister and a
senior Iranian oil official said there was no consensus to call an emergency
meeting.
White House seeks Congress repeal of oil, gas research subsidies
A provision in the US House Democrats' energy tax rollback plan to force companies to renegotiate flawed 1998-1999 federal deepwater Gulf of Mexico lease contracts could have the inadvertent effect of disrupting US energy supplies, the Office of Management and Budget said Wednesday, in a "Statement of Administration Policy."
January 16, 2007
Australia, China agree to work on clean coal
Australia and China will join forces to develop clean coal technology. Australian Prime Minister, John Howard, met with Chinese Premier, Wen Jiabao in the Philippines on 15 January 2007. Howard, who is in the region to attend the East Asia Summit, has reaffirmed Australia's commitment to a bilateral trade agreement with China
Canada's largest solar research park launched
"This project will establish Toronto and Ontario as a world leader in solar energy research and development and education," said Energy Minister Dwight Duncan. "Solar and other forms of renewable energy are an important part of Ontario's energy future."
China-- Euro-Dollar Exchange Rate Arbiter?
There is some uncertainty about what would happen if China ceases or reduces its interventions to support the dollar against the renminbi and there are fears that the euro might move up sharply against the dollar if the Chinese increasingly intervene in favour of the euro rather than the dollar.
China Raises Its Target for Wind-Power Growth
China, the world's biggest energy consumer after the United States, plans to invest 45.6 billion yuan, or $5.8 billion, to more than triple its wind-power electricity generation capacity by 2010, an energy industry official said.
Climate Policy Could Hinder Renewable Energy
No other nation comes close to matching America’s prodigious appetite for carbon-based energy sources, though China is clearly beginning to close the gap. ...when it comes to designing the mechanism that will drive reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, air regulators and renewable energy producers hold conflicting viewpoints.
Crude prices fall further despite OPEC rhetoric
Crude oil futures continued to slide in early Asian trade Tuesday, as the market shrugged off talks of a further cut in OPEC production and the colder weather that has hit the North American market.
EIA predicts GHG draft would not harm economy
The requirements of a draft global-warming bill from the new Democratic
chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee would not cause
substantial harm to the US economy or cause electricity prices to skyrocket,
according to an analysis released Thursday by the Energy Information
Administration.
Emissions bill could impact TXU plan
A bipartisan group of U.S. senators filed a bill Friday that would gradually halve the amount of greenhouse gas emitted by U.S. companies.
Environment Ministers Lack Clout on Global Warming
German Politicians Divided Over Future of Nuclear Power
The dispute over the future of nuclear energy continues in the grand coalition. Although Chancellor Angela Merkel (CDU) [Christian Democratic Union] committed herself to nuclear phase-out on Sunday [14 January], she expressly limited it to the current legislative term. At the same time, she challenged nuclear energy opponents to name alternatives.
"The prices at the gas pump were really high, and the energy prices were volatile. That kickstarted it, but it's continued," says Moe. "Not to the same degree, but people are very much aware of high efficiency appliances and the savings and tax credits that come with them. They're also concerned about global warming and environmental issues in general.
Imagine a car that runs only on hydrogen instead of gasoline and motor oil, and spits out water vapor instead of noxious gas.
Now imagine a house that's completely disconnected from the electrical grid and doesn't need heating oil or natural gas -- just some solar panels, propane tanks, and a "fuel cell."
Actually, you don't have to imagine it -- these things already exist.
New Mexico--The Public Regulation Commission on Thursday approved new rules vastly expanding net metering, which allows consumers who generate their own electricity to offset their bills by selling their power back to suppliers, such as PNM.
Old nuke plant site OK'd for public use
The lakeside grounds of a former nuclear plant are safe for any kind of public use, including housing or recreation, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission said Thursday.
OPEC's talks December 14 talks in the Nigerian capital Abuja were noteworthy for three things apart from agreeing to a deferred cut in crude production. Ministers appointed a new secretary-general, former Libyan oil minister Abdalla el-Badri.
"We agreed this afternoon to coordinate our forces
within OPEC. Today we know that there is too much crude in the market,
that's why we will support the decisions that have been taken to reduce
production and protect the price of oil."
Venezuelan President
Hugo Chavez
"The price of energy is being driven from both ends.
These trends are due to persist for the next two years...until extra capacity
will start to kick in."
Nigerian oil minister
Edmund Daukoru said on Tuesday,
Radioactive Water Leaks at Japan Reactor, no Injuries
Four workers came into contact with radioactive coolant water at a Japanese nuclear power plant, but the operator said on Monday that there had been no effect on their health or on the environment from the leak.
Renewable Energy-- Coping with Variability
In parts 1 and 2, we looked at supply management and load management as mechanisms for coping with the variability of renewable energy sources. In this final part, we look at possibilities for energy storage - the ultimate solution for the long term, once the burning of fossil fuels is no longer an option.
Renewable Energy Gets Thumbs-Up From Utahns
Whether by wind, sun or bio-waste, Utahns overwhelmingly support tax breaks and state investment into alternative, renewable energy sources.
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 011607
The geomagnetic field ranged from quiet to minor storm levels. The elevated conditions are due to a recurrent coronal hole high speed stream.
Researchers seek to improve using methane energy sources
As researchers look for renewable energy sources, an old procedure of turning waste products into energy is receiving new attention.
Salt Forces South China Cities to go Upstream for Water
Salty tap water that affects up to 50 million people has forced the Asian gambling hub Macau and its sister city Zhuhai to hastily build a pipeline to access water further upstream, a water official said on Monday.
Scientists Prepare to Move Doomsday Clock Forward
The keepers of the "Doomsday Clock" plan to move its hands forward next Wednesday to reflect what they call worsening nuclear and climate threats to the world.
Sheriff Seeks Grant to Fortify Diablo Canyon
The San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Department plans to apply for as much as $50,000 in grant money to improve security around Diablo Canyon nuclear power plant even as federal Homeland Security officials say they will reduce the amount of such funds they will allocate to California.
Six US Senators Back Mandatory Greenhouse Gas Cuts
Six US senators, including potential 2008 presidential contenders from both major parties, unveiled legislation on Friday that would force power plants and industry to curb heat-trapping greenhouse gases, seeking to cut emissions to one-third of 2000 levels by 2050.
Study projects modest climate bill price tag
A new federal analysis proves mandatory reductions in greenhouse gas emissions could be achieved at a minimal cost to American households and without harming the U.S. economy, according to proponents of climate change legislation.
Sun, Wind, And Tidal Power Obviate Need For Nuke Plants
Although the nuclear power lobby claims "we need all energy options," there is no need for the atomic choice when so many safe, renewable, alternatives are becoming economically feasible.
The Pedal-a-Watt Stationary Bike Power Generator
The Pedal-a-Watt bike was designed to keep the user aerobically fit while creating some extra power that may be sent to a bank of batteries.
U.S. Automakers Seek More Government Funds for Electric Vehicle Battery Research
The Bush Administration has been approached by the "Big Three" U.S. automakers with suggestions that the government should triple its funding of electric vehicle (EV) lithium-ion battery research.
U.S. net farm income forecast to be down for 2006
It won’t come as a surprise to Southeastern farmers, who saw profit margins diminished this past year by poor yields and rising energy costs, but the USDA has estimated that net farm income will be down for 2006 as compared with 2005.
US court allows human rights case against ExxonMobil to proceed
A US federal court of appeals Friday refused to dismiss a case against oil major ExxonMobil for its part in human rights abuses allegedly perpetrated by company-hired security guards against villagers living near an ExxonMobil-operated LNG plant in the Aceh province of Indonesia.
US nuclear generation credited for CO2 emissions reductions
US nuclear generation prevented the emission of 142 million metric tons of CO2 in 2004, the latest year for which data are available, according to a new report prepared by Edison Electric Institute.
Utilities ask court to strike down parts of US mercury rule
The Bush administration's rule regulating mercury emissions from power plants is illegal because it allows states to prohibit electricity generators from participating in emissions-trading programs, according to lawyers representing the power sector.
Vestas study claims cheaper wind
A Danish study, published on the heals of a European energy report, says wind power is cheaper after pollution is weighed into fossil fuel costs.
Waste Dumping, Land Reclamation Soil China's Seas
Excess waste discharge and land reclamation are worsening pollution in China's shallow coastal waters, the China Daily said on Saturday.
What's Moving the Oil Markets 011607
•The presidents of Iran and Venezuela called for a cut in the OPEC's oil production
•Warm weather and the waning influence of geopolitics on oil markets despite Iran's insistence that it would persist with its nuclear program, has sent oil prices tumbling to a 19-month low
Winter blast sends US Gulf Coast spot gas prices higher
Freezing rain and sleet covering central and Southeast Texas and winter temperatures more common to the Northeast sent spot natural gas prices in the US Gulf Coast region up by more than 60 cents at some pricing points compared with Friday's midpoints. Some Florida points moved up more than 70 cents.
January 12, 2007
Battery recycling group reports surge in participation
The Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corp. recovered more than 5.6 million pounds of rechargeable batteries through its North American program in 2006, according to the group´s yearend report.
Belarus, Russia agree to compromise on oil transit
Belarus and Russia have reached a "compromise" on the dispute over oil transit that led to the suspension of crude deliveries through the Druzhba pipeline, the Belarus presidency said in a statement Wednesday.
Biofuel Demand Could Send Shockwaves through World Economy
Esteemed environmental policy analyst Lester Brown of the Earth Policy Institute told reporters last week that Americans and the rest of the world are likely to see sharp increases in the price of corn, let alone the popular biofuel ethanol, due to errors in projections made by federal agriculture planners.
BP Alternative Energy to add 550 MW of US wind power in 2007
Houston-based BP Alternative Energy North America Friday said it expects to begin construction on five wind power generation projects in the US in 2007. The project, which will be located in California, Colorado, North Dakota and Texas, are expected to deliver a combined generation capacity of some 550 MW, the company said.
Canada to double capacity of green power
The federal energy department in Canada wants to double the country’s green power capacity by 2010, according to a commitment filed in Parliament.
Canadian and US Economic Updates 011107
Canada's trade surplus was larger than expected in November.
U.S. Merchandise trade balance unexpectedly narrowed in November.
Cargill Subsidiary Emerald Renewable Energy Plans to Produce Ethanol Plants
New Cargill subsidiary Emerald Renewable Energy LLC announced plans to develop four 100 million-gallon-per-year ethanol plants in the Midwestern United States. The newly formed company is considering several potential sites in the Cornbelt.
City of Portland Project Aims to Grow Demand for Solar Hot-Water and Photovoltaic Systems
The city of Portland is turning up the heat on solar technologies with the Solar Now! campaign, a one-year effort to grow demand for solar hot-water and photovoltaic systems.
Crude futures weaker as Russian crude dispute ends, US demand low
Global crude futures traded lower Thursday as the resumption of oil transit from Russia to western Europe through the Druzhba pipeline in Belarus and total petroleum demand in the US fell to its lowest level since April 2004, aided toward new 19-month lows.
Crude oil futures fall again ahead of US data release
Global crude oil futures fell again on Wednesday ahead of US inventory figures due to be released by the Energy Information Administration and the American Petroleum Institute later in the day.
Driven to Save Energy and the Environment
Oil prices may have moderated. But, could the United States be just one well-orchestrated terrorist attack away from causing a major price gyration that would wreck the economy? While difficult to fathom, it's possible. Consider that Hurricane Katrina helped push the cost of gasoline to $3 a gallon.
EC plans to cut emissions by 20pct by 2020, 30pct in future agreement
The European Commission on Wednesday said it wants a future international agreement to fight climate change, under which industrialized countries cut greenhouse gas emissions by an average of 30% below 1990 levels by 2020.
Democrats are pushing a cleaner, greener energy policy that they will try to drive through the House later this month. But its ultimate outlook is uncertain--and so is its impact.
EPA Commits $10 Million to Protect the Nation's Beaches
Thirty states and five territories will share $10 million in grants for beach water-quality monitoring and public notification programs, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced today.
European Commission proposes an integrated energy and climate change package
The European Commission has proposed a comprehensive package of measures to establish a new energy policy for Europe to combat climate change and boost the EU's energy security and competitiveness.
Experimental 'wind to hydrogen' system up and running
Xcel Energy and the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory today unveiled a unique facility that uses electricity from wind turbines to produce and store pure hydrogen, offering what may become an important new template for future energy production.
Fires Fuel Mercury Emissions-- Study
Forest fires release more mercury into the atmosphere than previously recognized, a multidisciplinary research project at the University of Michigan suggests.
TXU has some big -- and some say bad -- ideas. The utility wants to build 11 coal-fired power plants at a cost of $10 billion by 2010. To help them along, Texas' governor has "fast tracked" the permitting process, all of which has raised the ire of not just environmental groups but also many local politicos, businesses and shareholder groups.Good Employment Report Lifts Mortgage Rates and Eases Fear Over US Economy
Freddie Mac yesterday released the results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey (PMMS) in which the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) averaged 6.21 percent with an average 0.4 point for the week ending January 11, 2007, up from last week when it averaged 6.18 percent. Last year at this time, the 30-year FRM averaged 6.15 percent.
GOP lawmaker proposes tougher mercury requirements
A Republican senator is introducing legislation that would establish a nationwide mercury monitoring system and reduce mercury emissions from power plants by 90 percent.
Governors urge Bush, Congress to encourage more ethanol use
Thirty-seven state governors are asking President George W. Bush and the US Congress to support raising renewable fuels standard targets, provide new financial incentives, and establish a "regional marketing strategy" for infrastructure to help ethanol capture 20% of the gasoline market in 20 years.
Greenpeace rubbishes Merkel's Russian oil-German nuclear link
Environmental group Greenpeace Wednesday hung a banner across the cooling tower of a German nuclear power plant that mocks Chancellor Angela Merkel's reaction to the Russia oil supply dispute.
Icelandic venture to focus on geothermal projects around the world
An investment company has been formed in Iceland to invest US$1 billion in sustainable energy projects.
California Governor Arnold "Jean-Claude Killy" Schwarzenegger unveiled a low-carbon fuel initiative in his State of the State address Tuesday. And unlike the leg he fractured in a skiing accident a couple weeks ago, the proposal seems to be gliding along pretty well, on the whole, public- and press-opinionwise.
The use of renewable energies in Ireland grew by 26% in 2005, with wind growing by 70%, according to data from Sustainable Energy Ireland.
Kansas governor wants wind to supply 20% of state's power by 2020
Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius Wednesday called for the state to obtain 10% of its electricity supply from wind by 2010 and expand that to 20% by 2020.
Low Carbon Standard to 'Fuel' Renewable Energy Market
World's first greenhouse gas standard for transportation fuels will spark research into alternatives to oil such as cellulosic ethanol.
"With a low carbon fuel standard, Californians can expect to see more renewable fuels like ethanol and biodiesel at their local gas station and, in time, can look forward to driving a new a plug-in hybrid or hydrogen fuel cell vehicle."
Massive Shortage of Electricians Predicted for U.S.
America will face a shortage of electricians in the near future, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Projections show that, by the year 2014, the national need for electrical workers will rise to more than 734,000 -- a figure 78,000 beyond the number currently employed in the field.
Natural gas tax revenue drops almost $50 million in month
Natural gas tax revenue in Oklahoma dropped almost $50 million in December, when compared to a year ago, while sales and income taxes remained strong.
Nuclear power saves France Euro 16 billion import costs in 2006
Nuclear power saved France 16 billion Euros (about US$20 billion) in energy import costs and at least 128 million tons of CO2 emissions in 2006, the French industry ministry said January 11.
NYMEX crude opens 22 cents higher after 3-day price slide
February crude futures on the New York Mercantile Exchange opened 22 cents higher at $52.20/barrel Friday after three consecutive days of losses that has shaved over $4/barrel off the price of the front-month contract.
Offshore wind may power Delaware
"It's very appealing from an environmental point of view," Cherry said. "The problem is could you afford to build it in Delaware, and if you could afford it, would the public be accepting of these things off the shore of Delaware?"
Oil dispute presses Europe to diversify energy sources
The dispute between Russia and Belarus over oil is the latest reminder that Europeans must start diversifying to reduce their dependence on Russian oil and natural gas if they want secure sources of energy, analysts said Monday.
Oil, gas producers wary of US House bill to cut tax incentives
As part of their strategy to swiftly pass high-profile legislation, Democrats in the US House of Representatives plan to introduce Thursday a bill aimed at cutting a variety of tax incentives that gas and oil companies currently enjoy.
Pennsylvania fines FirstEnergy for smokestack discharge
FirstEnergy Corp. has received the maximum fine allowed under Pennsylvania law for a smokestack discharge that covered some 300 homes in a black, sooty material.
Range coal-gasification plant hits obstacle
Current plans for a $2 billion coal-gasification plant on the Iron Range are "not yet in the public interest," according to a state commerce official.
Schwarzenneger targets carbon emissions from cars
California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger plans to reduce the intensity of greenhouse gas emissions from automobiles operating in the state by at least 10 percent by 2020.
Senate hearing targets fuel economy as means to curb oil demand
Tougher transportation efficiency standards are key to reducing the US' foreign oil demand, witnesses at a Senate hearing testified on Wednesday.
Sounding off against Broadwater
Environmentalists and politicians opposed to the liquefied natural gas terminal proposed for Long Island Sound exhorted concerned residents yesterday to make their voices heard before it's too late.
Supreme Court agrees to hear Arizona water permit case
The Supreme Court announced Jan. 5 that it would hear oral arguments in the case of the National Association of Home Builders v. Defenders of Wildlife.
I would like to introduce you to an Improved Rotary Wind Powered Turbine ( Savonius Rotor ) that I have invented.
US raises royalty rate for new deepwater leases to 16.7%
The Bush administration Tuesday raised the royalty rate for most new offshore deepwater federal oil and gas leases to 16.7% and opened the door to new leasing in Alaska's Bristol Bay.
US senator to offer bill to slash power plant mercury emissions
US Senator Susan Collins, Republican-Maine, Tuesday said she will introduce a bill that would require coal-fired generators to cut mercury emissions by 90% by 2009 and establish a "nationwide mercury monitoring network."
Northeast: After a brief chill this mid-week, a colder Winter pattern will establish itself after the Martin Luther King Jr. Weekend.Southeast:More consistent streams of clouds, moisture and precipitation are becoming routine across the region
North-Central:Significant Arctic will pour in from Canada by Thursday, where several northern-tier locations will struggle to get out of the single-digits for high temperatures, and for several days.
Northwest:The Pacific Northwest has contended with typical 'Wet Season' storminess near the Coast and Cascades, but the "rain-shadow" effect in the inter-mountain region has also been evident
Southwest:Northern/Central California and Nevada have now begun contending with coastal storms and mountain snows of their own, and even the southern locations
What's Moving the Oil Markets 011007
•Global crude futures fell again on Wednesday ahead of US inventory figures
•North Sea Brent Blend crude loadings are set to rise to 237,500 b/d in February,
What's Moving the Oil Market 011207
•Global crude futures rebounded on Friday as market
participants covered short positions ahead of the long weekend with the US out
for a public holiday on Monday, brokers said.
•At 11:55 GMT the February ICE Brent futures contract was changing hands at
$52.74/barrel, up $1.04 from Thursday.
•There is no particular bullish news in the market at the moment. But short
covering ahead of the weekend seems to support the market. I expect even
stronger gains later on in the day when the US comes into the market, as they
are going into a long weekend,"a London-based broker said.
•As a reaction to the recent price crush, several statements from OPEC ministers
in the last days made it clear that the organization was concerned over
developments.
•However, "OPEC is currently going through a process of rebuilding its
credibility, therefore a too quick reaction on the latest price drop is not to
be expected. That is a very clever and necessary step at this point of time,
especially after most of OPEC's signals were simply ignored by the market in the
last quarter," one broker said.
Updated: 01/12/07
January 9, 2007
Agency to pay half of uranium exploration costs as prices soar
Japan's energy agency has decided to subsidize half the cost of uranium exploration to support private companies conducting geological surveys and other operations overseas, prompted by rising concerns about a possible uranium shortage due to surging energy demand worldwide, according to agency officials.
As poles went up, surge of resentment hit utility
Residents of Dommerich Hills were stunned and angered when Progress Energy Corp. subcontractors rolled into their neighborhood one day and, without warning, began putting up 50-foot power poles in their front yards.
AUTOSHOW - Honda Mulling Plug-Ins, Sees US Sales Rise
Honda Motor Co Ltd said on Sunday it is targeting a US sales increase of 3 percent in 2007 and is considering developing a plug-in electric hybrid vehicle to add to its lineup.
Baltic States Are Developing Common Energy Strategy
Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia have drafted a common strategy aimed at boosting the energy security of these states.
Belarus cuts off Russian oil to Europe
Many mine managers will tell you they're never happier than when they see a loaded coal train leaving their mine. But the railroads have been unable to consistently deliver empty trains to the mine, or offtake coal in accordance with any predictable schedule.
China's Largest Lake May Vanish in 200 Years
China's largest lake, holy to Tibetans but suffering from global warming and desertification, may vanish in two centuries even as the government pledges US$870 million to stop it shrinking, Xinhua news agency said on Friday.
Clean Technology’s Coming-Out Party
Clean tech has been described as “the biggest economic opportunity of the 21st century.”
Coal projected to be bigger source of electricity
The federal Energy Information Administration's annual energy projection for 2007 and beyond predicts coal will be used even more to generate electricity.
Coalition unveils state proposals
With the Texas Legislature kicking off a new session next week, a state group of clean-air advocates, public-health officials and outdoors groups wants state lawmakers to focus on environmental issues -- particularly those involving new coal-fired power plants.
Crude futures extend recovery on geopolitical tensions
Global crude futures continued their upward trend Monday helped by renewed geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and disrupted crude deliveries between Russia and the EU, traders said. At 11:22 GMT the ICE February Brent futures changed hands at $56.17/bbl, up 53 cents/bbl from Friday's settlement.
Crude futures fall as warm weather concerns linger
Global crude futures weakened on Tuesday retesting lows as renewed concern over unseasonably warm weather in the US overshadowed disruptions of Russian crude exports into Europe and talk that OPEC was considering action to halt the recent price slide.
Electric Car May Finally Be a Turn-on ; High Fuel Costs Put It on the Comeback Trail
The electric car, derided as impractical by automakers since General Motors Corp. pulled the plug on its revolutionary EV1, is staging a comeback in the United States amid lofty fuel prices and persistent worries about the nation's dependence on imported oil.
Europe decommissions seven nuclear reactors by end-2006-- Forum
Seven nuclear reactors were decommissioned in Europe at the end of 2006, German nuclear opposition group, Forum, said Monday. Among its tasks, Forum opposes a nuclear waste site in Bavaria and promotes energy saving, energy efficiency and renewables.
ExxonMobil tried to mislead, scientists say
ExxonMobil Corp. gave $16 million to 43 ideological groups between 1998 and 2005 in an effort to mislead the public by discrediting the science behind global warming, the Union of Concerned Scientists asserted yesterday.
Geothermal gains as 'only reliable renewable'
Homes in Unterhaching, a town south of Munich, will be warmed by hot water piped from 3,300 meters underground starting in May. The town of 22,000 people is at the leading edge of a shift toward geothermal power generation that may swell Germany's capacity 1,000- fold within a decade.
Green Party wants biofuel initiative separated from Clean Air Act
The Green Party of Canada today challenged the new Environment Minister John Baird to give the federal government's proposed biofuel initiative a fighting chance of survival by cutting it adrift from the doomed Clean Air Act.
H2Gen Innovations Provides Hydrogen Generator to Chevron Hydrogen Company for Orlando Energy Station
H2Gen Innovations, Inc. announced today that it has delivered its factory-tested HGM 2000 hydrogen generation system to Chevron Hydrogen Company, for use in Chevron’s hydrogen energy station being constructed near the Orlando, Florida airport.
The U.S. Supreme Court yesterday heard oral arguments in the solid waste flow control case United Haulers Association vs. Oneida-Herkimer Solid Waste Management Authority. Regardless of which way the court decides, this case is clearly going to go down as a milestone for waste companies across the country.
Laws are not enough for environmental miracle
Controlling the environmental impact of China's belated industrial revolution is like the Red Queen's race in Lewis Carroll's Through the Looking Glass (the sequel to Alice's Adventures in Wonderland) you need to run as fast as you can just to stay where you are.
As the Telluride Mountain Village gondola celebrates its 10-year anniversary as one of the country's most unique, eco-friendly transportation systems, it can now add "powered by renewable energy" to its tagline.
New US Congress Looks to Boost Alternate Fuels
US lawmakers unveiled a raft of energy-related bills in the early hours of the 110th Congress aimed at boosting fuel ethanol use, extracting liquid fuels from coal and tightening automobile fuel efficiency rules.
NPRA says will not support Senate bill calling for ethanol boost
The primary lobby group for US refiners and petrochemical companies on Friday came out against legislation introduced in the US Senate that calls for a dramatic increase in the amount of ethanol used in motor fuels.
Nuclear Power Faces Reduced Role in Energy Mix
Nuclear power's share of global power supply is likely to shrink over the next few decades as political indecision and public opposition stunt its growth.
NYMEX crude gains $1.03/barrel on OPEC ministers consultations
NYMEX February crude futures on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange's Globex
system were $1.03/barrel higher at $57.34/barrel Monday, reversing back to the
upside on news that OPEC oil ministers are in consultation regarding the
market's recent downdraft in prices.
Ohio digs deep to solve CO2 problem
Stung by its failure to land a $1 billion experimental non-polluting coal-burning power plant, Ohio is preparing to drill a deep geological test well this spring that could play an important role in fighting global warming.
Oil Demand, Growing Now, Seen Peaking Before 2050
Global oil demand will peak by 2050, possibly even before world production does, as environmental policies harden, security worries speed the hunt for alternatives and technology makes other fuels cheaper.
OPEC ready to take further action; reviewing options
OPEC ministers have started consultations to consider options following the recent oil price slide and the cartel is ready to take further action if required, a senior delegate said on Monday.
Portuguese Entrepreneur Finds His Own Answer to Energy Problems
As the European Commission urges the continent to move away from traditional energy sources and adopt a lifestyle that cares for the environment, Eduardo Rocha is one step ahead.
One of the chief complaints about wind power is its variability -- that turbines generate electricity depending on how strongly the wind is blowing. As the cost of wind-generated power has dropped over the past 20 years and the technology has moved from niche application to a major component of many utilities' energy portfolios, the question of predicting when the wind will blow, and how hard, has become a vital concern for this maturing but still evolving industry.
"Given Iran's authority over the Strait of Hormoz that is the
passage for more than 40 percent of the world's energy, we have become so strong
that the economy and energy security of the world is in hands of Iran."
The Iranian deputy Basij
commander, General Majid Mir Ahmadi, threatened on Monday to block oil traffic
through the Strait of Hormoz at the mouth of the Persian Gulf if the west hurts
Iran's economy over its nuclear program.
"Deliveries were disrupted overnight and then totally
cut off Monday morning on the main Druzhba pipeline, which supplies crude oil to
Poland and Germany."
The Polish pipeline
company PERN spokesman Tomasz Zakrzewski told AFP on Monday that deliveries of
Russian crude oil to Poland and Germany have been cut off at Poland's eastern
border with Belarus, following a dispute between Moscow and Minsk on transit
fees for Urals deliveries to the EU.
Railroads clear backlog of Powder River trains after NE snow
The western railroads have managed to work off much of the backlogged Powder River Basin coal traffic that resulted from a snow and ice storm that hit central Nebraska over the New Year's holiday weekend, Union Pacific and BNSF Railway said.
Renewable Energies to Rise on Global Warming Woes
Solar, wind and other renewable energies are set to surge by 2050, spurred by worries about global warming but their ascent will be braked by high costs and cheap coal from China to the United States.
Roadmap to coping with energy crisis
An energy crunch that chokes fuel supplies, dims the lights at homes and workplaces, and ravages Western economies may no longer be the stuff of 1970s history books. It could be a vision of the near future.
South Carolina ready for water war with North Carolina
South Carolina could file a lawsuit against North Carolina as early as this week if a Tarheel state agency approves a plan to remove millions of gallons of water a day from the Catawba River.
State regulation of oil-and-gas complex in 2006 and prospects in 2007
In Russian economy the year 2006 has passed by being accompanied with amplification of the leading elite nomenclature-political groups (NPG) within the environment of an active President of the country - Vladimir Putin. This tendency has clearly mostly affected the basic domestic economical industry - the oil-and-gas one.
Stored energy project planned in Iowa to use wind, compressed air
A group of municipal utilities in Iowa Friday released plans for a generation project using compressed air and wind generation to meet the state's growing energy needs.
U.N. Official Wants World Summit on Global Warming
U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon should call a meeting of heads of government to decide the next steps against global warming, the U.N. official responsible for tackling climate change said on Monday.
UK wind factors missed 30% in 2005, better than continent-- study
Capacity factors across the UK's onshore wind farms are well below expectations, according to new research published last month by the Renewable Energy Foundation, an independent UK charity.
US and Canadian Economic Updates 010807
Canada’s industrial
product price index comes in lower than expectations in November
US initial claims came in above
expectations in the week ended December 30
US congressmen look for permanent drilling ban in Alaska's ANWR
A Democrat and a Republican in the US House introduced legislation Friday for a permanent ban on oil and gas leasing or drilling in Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.
NORTHEAST: High Latitude Blocking has emerged in the New Year, but not over Greenland, so the stores of Arctic/Canadian air have been prevented from funneling down into the Eastern States.SOUTHEAST:With a relatively dry December behind them, steady streams of clouds, moisture and precipitation will become commonplace across the region, exemplifying their January-March Winter themes
NORTH-CENTRAL:The classic North-Central signature of a moderate El Niño, northerly displaced Jet Stream and minimal snowfall,
NORTHWEST:The Pacific Northwest will contend with typical 'Wet Season' storminess
SOUTHWEST:Northern/Central California and Nevada have now begun contending with coastal storms and mountain snows of their own
Wait 'till Bill Dahlberg hears about this!
The US Chamber of Commerce is pulling together what it calls a "massive" energy organization to promote competition, security and jobs in the energy industry, Chamber CEO Thomas Donohue told reporters.
Warming Could Spur 'Evolution Explosion' - Study
Fast-growing weeds have evolved over a few generations to adapt to climate change, which could signal the start of an "evolution explosion" in response to global warming, scientists reported on Monday.
What's Moving the Oil Markets 010907
Global crude futures weakened on Tuesday retesting lows as renewed concern over unseasonably warm weather in the US overshadowed disruptions of Russian crude exports into Europe and talk that OPEC was considering action to halt the recent price slide.
Where Saving Energy is a National Obsession-- Japan Beats Oil Costs With Efficiency
In many countries, higher oil prices have hurt pocketbooks and led to worries about economic slowdowns. But in Japan, Kiminobu Kimura, an architect, says he has not felt the pinch. In fact, his monthly energy bill is lower than a year ago.
World May Be Facing Highest Grain Prices in History
Investment in fuel ethanol distilleries has soared since the late-2005 oil price hikes, but data collection in this fast-changing sector has fallen behind. Because of inadequate data collection on the number of new plants under construction, the quantity of grain that will be needed for fuel ethanol distilleries has been vastly understated.
World to Struggle to Break Oil Addiction to 2050
The world may lessen its addiction to oil by 2050 but will struggle to kick the habit entirely, keeping the heat under prices, producers and consumers say.
January 5, 2007
5,000-plus Pa. mine sites will be cleaned up
More than 5,000 dangerous abandoned mine sites across Pennsylvania will be cleaned up with about $1.4 billion in federal funding over the next 18 years, state and federal officials said Wednesday.
2007 Could Be the Year of Biomethane, Says Fleets & Fuels
Biomethane, chemically the same as natural gas yet available from most organic waste, is emerging as a viable renewable alternative to fossil fuels.
A Solar Energy Company Says That It's Too Hard to Get OK to Connect With Utilities
A leading national solar energy company is asking the N.C. Utilities Commission to follow the example of other states and make it easier for private energy companies to produce and sell electricity here.
Animal fats touted as future fuel source
Jerry Bagby is typical of the oil men who are prospecting for a fortune in the Midwestern biofuels boom. He's convinced there's oil in these hills -- and he's found a well that no one else is using.
Australia's Southwest Braces for Super Storm
Australia's southwest was bracing on Thursday for a destructive weather front that could link with remnants of a tropical cyclone to create a "perfect storm".
The biomass industry made tremendous gains in 2005, but even those knee-deep in biomass could not have foreseen such amazing strides made in 2006. Even with appropriation woes, large venture capital investments, new leadership, increased acceptance from the environmental community, national security threats and unstable energy markets sparked the country's enthusiasm for biomass.
British government sums 'don't add up' on renewable energy-- BWEA
The British Wind Energy Association (BWEA) said Friday the level of support for renewable energy must increase if government targets are to be met.
Bush signs oil pipeline safety legislation
President Bush has extended the federal government´s oversight to low-pressure oil and gas pipelines, which could require periodic inspections and waste sludge removal.
Bush, Merkel Pledge Closer Cooperation on Mideast, Global Warming
President Bush and German Chancellor Angela Merkel pledged closer cooperation on combatting global warming and in trying to prod a Middle East peace on Thursday, brushing aside lingering differences between the two countries.
The New Year resolutions thrive. Key among them is the reduction of carbon footprints, or the diminished use of fossil fuels that cause ecological damage. Can driving hybrid vehicles that run on a combination of electricity and gasoline help?Cheaper gas bills are on the way-- Wholesale prices fell; now rates will
Natural gas customers are getting some welcome relief just in time for winter's big chill.
Climate Change Affecting Earth's Outermost Atmosphere
Carbon dioxide emissions from the burning of fossil fuels will produce a 3 percent reduction in the density of Earth's outermost atmosphere by 2017, according to a team of scientists from the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) and The Pennsylvania State University (PSU).
Connecticut needs drastic recycling upgrade, report says
Connecticut must "radically and quickly" change the balance between the amount of trash it recycles and throws away or be faced with a waste crisis, according to the state´s new solid waste plan.
Conserve energy for growth, Tanaka tells non-IEA consumers
The International Energy Agency's executive director-elect Nobuo Tanaka urged major consumers and producers outside the group--such as China, India and members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations--to conserve energy better for sustainable economic growth.
Consultant Aims at Maine Energy, Homegrown Power Encouraged
The gas in the car, the electricity for the light, and the oil for the furnace come from places far from Maine.
But Sue Jones believes in homegrown energy, and she wants to connect Maine businesses and landowners with state and federal funds to help them produce their own energy.
Could hog waste be state's salvation?
As West Virginia is known for coal and Saudi Arabia for its oil, could North Carolina one day be regarded for its renewable stocks of farm animal waste?
Crude futures hover above $55 level, stable after $5 freefall
Global crude futures stabilized around the $55/barrel level slowing the freefall over the past two days as bearish US product stocks data, global mild weather conditions and funds shifting to short positions for 2007 all contributed to a pessimistic start of the year, brokers said Friday.
Danish study finds minimal impact from large offshore windfarms
An eight-year study of the world’s two largest offshore windfarms has concluded that there is negligible impacts to birds, fish and mammals.
Determination of Nutrients in Water and Wastewater
With more nutrients generated and being introduced into the environment, concern about nutrients’ effect on the environment has risen. While nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus are naturally present in the environment, and are important for maintaining a balanced aquatic ecosystem, human activities increase their level and, as a result, contribute to the eutrophication process. Eutrophication is a serious problem...
Enlarged membership to boost OPEC's clout on oil market
The Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) started enlargement for the first time in over 30 years by admitting Angola at the beginning of 2007, and was poised to tighten the cartel's grip on world oil market.
Environment at Center of Canada Cabinet Shakeup
Stung by criticism of its environmental policy and preparing for a possible election this year, Canada's government made sweeping changes to its cabinet Thursday and promised to do more to fight climate change.
EU committee wants increased use of renewables
The European Union should set binding targets for reducing carbon emissions and for increasing the use of renewable energies, according to a report adopted without opposition by one of its committees.
EU to Urge 'New Industrial Revolution' in Energy
The European Commission will call next week for "a new industrial revolution" in the energy sector to boost competition, protect the climate and ensure security of supply, a draft paper from the EU executive showed.
ExxonMobil fires back at critical global-warming report
ExxonMobil fired back Wednesday at a group that earlier in the day accused the Houston-based oil major of deceiving the public on the causes and potential impacts of global warming.
German Renewable Energy Usage at Record High in 2006
Renewable energy usage will rise further in Germany this year after reaching its highest ever level in 2006, the BEE renewable energy association said on Thursday.
Greenhouse gases to shape coal debate
Expect an ancient form of energy, coal, to gain new attention in the coming years.
Wal-Mart is getting a lot of ink and airtime for its campaign to persuade shoppers to buy more energy-efficient compact fluorescent lamps -- CFLs as they're called in the trade -- in lieu of the industry standard, the incandescent light bulb.
India's PM Says West is Environmentally Wasteful
Slamming the West for its "environmentally wasteful lifestyle", Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh called on Wednesday for industrialised nations to look at alterative energy sources to save the environment.
Libya's Ghanem says OPEC could meet before March 'if necessary'
Libya's top oil official Shokri Ghanem said Friday that OPEC was concerned about the latest sharp fall in crude prices and could meeet ahead of its March 15 meeting if prices continued to fall.
Methane conversion gets boost from governor
Local dairy farmers support the idea of turning manure into electricity, and now that Gov. Bill Richardson wants state incentives to encourage the idea, they say it's more feasible than ever.
Mining-Related Contaminants Persist In Some Appalachian Coal Region Water Wells
A study of private water wells in reclaimed surface-coal-mining areas of the northern and central Appalachians shows that traces of mining-related contaminants persist in some wells, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) announced.
Mixed Economic Reports Cause Flat US Long-Term Fixed Mortgage Rates
Freddie Mac yesterday released the results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey (PMMS) in which the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) averaged 6.18 percent with an average 0.4 point for the week ending January 4, 2007, unchanged from last week when it averaged 6.18 percent. Last year at this time, the 30-year FRM averaged 6.21 percent.
N.Y. Gov. Eliot spitzer vows to increase global warming effort
In his first State of the State address, New York Gov. Eliot Spitzer pledged to expand the state´s efforts to control global warming, expand funding for environmental protection, and reduce energy consumption.
Neighbors trying to zap power line; Jefferson County group up in arms over choice of routes
State regulators didn't want to touch a Jefferson County preserve once used for research by Wisconsin conservationist Aldo Leopold. Not with the 110-foot poles of a new transmission line.
Nevada to become third-largest geothermal site in the world
The state of Nevada will generate 1,100 MW of electricity from geothermal facilities within the next five years, four times its current output from that technology.
New Nevada governor allies in fight against Yucca repository
Nevada's new governor was welcomed by incoming US senate majority leader Harry Reid of Nevada this week as an ally in the fight against DOE's planned Yucca Mountain nuclear waste repository.
The price and availability of water will have a similar influence on the Asian economies as oil and gas imports do today. "Through further development of our product lines and systems for disinfection we are making a contribution to meeting the rising demand for fresh water from industry and the population," explained Roger Radke, who is responsible for global water business at Siemens
New Zealand to promote renewables in energy strategy
As much new electricity as possible should come from renewable energies, according to a draft energy strategy for New Zealand.
NYMEX crude falls further with focus on warm weather in US
NYMEX February crude futures on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange's Globex system were 59 cents lower at $57.73/barrel Thursday with the market focused on warmer-than-normal temperatures, expected to dampen distillate demand.
Pacific Gas and Electric Company has teamed up with Joseph Gallo Farms and Microgy, Inc. (Amex: EPG), to provide clean, renewable manure digester biogas to power the Governor's "Leading the Green Dream" Inaugural Celebration on the south steps of the State Capitol from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. today. PG&E will also be using biodiesel made from soybean oil, solar energy and purchasing carbon credits to make the event's power use carbon neutral.
"In the time of high oil prices, the best weapons for the
consumers are the (improvement of) energy conservation."
The International Energy
Agency's executive director-elect Nobuo Tanaka urged major consumers and
producers outside the group--such as China, India and members of the Association
of Southeast Asian Nations--to conserve energy better for sustainable economic
growth.
"It has been a crazy few days. People have been hurt
already this year. A lot of funds have sold the market and with this people's
stops have triggered causing a major sell-off."
A London-based broker
reacting to the current downward slide of crude futures values on Friday morning
London time.
Authors Matthew Higgins, Thomas Klitgaard and Robert Lerman analyze how oil-exporting countries are deploying the increased revenues stemming from the rise in the price of oil. The authors find that about half of these revenues have been returned to oil-importing countries in the form of purchases of locally produced goods, while the remaining revenues have been used to buy foreign assets.
Renewable Energy-- Coping with Variability Part2
In Part 1, we looked at supply management as a mechanism for coping with the variability of wind resources. In this part, we look at the other side of the equation, load management. What are the prospects for being able to use power “as available”, and how will that capability affect the economics of renewable energy?
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 010407
Solar Activity Forecast: Solar activity is expected to be very low for the next three days (05 - 07 January). The geomagnetic field was at quiet to active levels. Solar wind speed remains elevated at approximately 640 km/s due to the coronal hole high speed stream. The greater than 2 MeV electron flux at geosynchronous orbit reached high levels again today.
Residents near nuclear plants can get free anti-radiation pills in February
Beginning next month, residents or businesses within 10 miles of the Monticello and Prairie Island nuclear power plants will be offered two doses of potassium iodide as a precaution against radiation, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety said today.
Scientists Say 2007 May Be Warmest Yet
A resurgent El Nino and persistently high levels of greenhouse gases are likely to make 2007 the world's hottest year ever recorded, British climate scientists said Thursday.
Scots inventor cracks centuries-old puzzle
IT IS a mechanical problem that has troubled scientists since Archimedes and the ancient Greeks, but now a Scottish electrician has come up with the answer - and it could help consumers save thousands of pounds in energy bills.
Seven countries launch training program for wind energy
Seven training centres around the world have launched a decentralized network to provide a ten-month training and education program for postgraduate students in wind energy.
As large generators of oily wastewater tighten effluent controls, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is targeting smaller generators. Some of the firms receiving their attention are smaller manufacturing plants, automotive garages, mobile equipment service shops and truck farms. Many of these firms do not have access to a sanitary sewer system that will accept oily wastewater.
Storm knocks out 600 miles of high-voltage lines in Nebraska
A slow-moving winter storm that hit Nebraska on December 29 knocked out about 600 miles of high-voltage transmission lines, Nebraska Public Power District, the state's largest utility, said late Monday.
SUEZ Announces Major Desalination Contract In The Middle East
With this new project, the Group will have almost 1,400 MW of additional power generation and 120,000 m3/day capacity in the Middle East, bringing its electricity generating capacity in the region to 5,500 MW (i.e. half of the installed capacity in Belgium) and its potable water production capacity to over 1,000,000 m3/day.
It was a breath of fresh air to read of the Land Use Regulation Commission staff's support for the Redington Wind Farm Project in western Maine.
Fuel might indeed grow on trees sometime soon, and one country is managing to divert much of its automotive energy needs away from oil as a result. It's even rewarding motorists for using it, notes DAVE MOORE.
US Chamber will no longer debate science behind warming, CEO says
The head of the largest US business lobby Thursday said his organization will no longer spend time debating the science of global warming and will instead focus on ensuring policymakers adopt a "common sense" approach to the issue.
US should halt ethanol growth to stop food price spike-- economist
The US needs to put a moratorium on the licensing of new ethanol distilleries or the US could face dramatically higher grain prices that raises all food prices and causes a backlash against the fuel ethanol industry, agricultural economist and environmentalist Lester Brown said Thursday.
The testing of water wells near the uranium mining site helps establish water quality baselines so any changes can be detected as the mining and reclamation processes proceed.
Waterwheel Invention Promises Cheap Electricity
Scotsman Ian Gilmartin, 60, and his friend Bob Cattley, 58, both from Kendal, Cumbria have invented a mini- waterwheel capable of supplying enough electricity to power a house - for free.
What's Moving the Oil Markets 010307
•Global crude futures weakened Wednesday, with front-month Brent futures falling below the psychological support level of $60/barrel, as the market awaits direction,
•Continued mild weather globally has kept price rises at bay, traders said
What's Moving the Oil Markets 010407
•Oil prices dived nearly $3/barrel in New York Wednesday and over $2/barrel in London as warm weather in the US northeast hit demand for winter heating oil.
What's Moving the Oil Markets 010507
•Global crude futures stabilized around the $55/barrel level slowing the freefall over the past two days as bearish US product stocks data
•On Thursday the Energy Information Administration released US stock data for the week ending December 29 2006. High levels of refiner output and a leveling off in demand amid warmer-than-average winter weather yielded builds in product inventories.
•The build in gasoline stocks pushed February NYMEX futures over the edge and into freefall losing 6 cents and settling at a two month low
Wind can generate 25pct of grid without problem, says analysis
With the right policies, electric utilities can source 25% of their resources from wind turbines without any sacrifice in reliability and with minor costs for absorbing the green power.
January 2, 2007
24 billion gallons of sewage dumped in Great Lakes annually-- Report
U.S. and Canadian wastewater treatment plants are dumping more than 24 billion gallons of raw sewage in the Great Lakes each year, according to the Toronto-based Sierra Legal Defense Fund.
Australia Looks To a Nuclear Powered Future
Australian Prime Minister John Howard is backing nuclear energy as the solution to the country's power needs and a good way to help combat global warming. Mr. Howard spoke Friday after the release of a government-sponsored report which urged Australia to build 25 nuclear reactors.
Britain to Close Two Oldest Nuclear Power Stations
Britain will on Sunday turn off its two oldest nuclear power plants as part of a process that will retire all but one of the country's ageing nuclear fleet within 16 years.
California earmarks $95 million for green technology projects
The funding, which will be included in his proposed budget to be unveiled in January, will go toward clean technology, biotechnology and nanotechnology projects, according to the governor´s office.
Crude futures rise on weakening dollar
Global crude futures rose in early trading Tuesday, the first business day of the new year, helped by renewed weakness in the dollar against other currencies such as the euro, brokers said.
Dairy cows-- 'Renewable gas wells'
Dairy cows are efficient converters of feed and water into high-quality milk, but a new project in California could demonstrate their power to save the planet from global warming.
Government fails 10th consecutive audit
As anticipated, the federal government flunked its audit for fiscal 2006, with $797 billion, or 53 percent, of its reported assets and an additional $790 billion, or 27 percent, of net costs, on the balance sheets of five agencies that could not be fully audited.
Honda envisages launch of fuel-cell cars in general market by 2018
Huge Ice Shelf Breaks Free in Canada's Far North -CORRECTED
A chunk of ice bigger than the area of Manhattan broke from an ice shelf in Canada's far north and could wreak havoc if it starts to float westward toward oil-drilling regions and shipping lanes next summer, a researcher said on Friday.
India's Forgotten Tribes Gain Rights Over Forests
Just as his ancestors did generations ago, Daya ekes out a meagre living mainly by tending to his cattle which relentlessly graze in Gir's lush forests.But Daya -- like millions of India's forest dwellers -- has never been able to call the forest his home. Instead he has been treated as a criminal by authorities as he has no legal right to stay in the forests where his forefathers lived and died.
Iran's parliament voted Wednesday to urge the government to re- examine its ties with the U.N. nuclear agency, after the Security Council imposed sanctions against Iran over its disputed nuclear program.
Last Australian State Stops Farm Landclearing
Farmers in Australia's northern state of Queensland will no longer have the right to clear vast areas of native vegetation from Monday, in a move green groups welcomed as a huge victory for the environment.
Lawmakers add renewable, alternative sources to draft of new Idaho energy plan
Renewable. Conservation.
We shall soon find out, because energy, as per tradition, will be a hot topic when the state Legislature convenes.
Lib Dems turn up heat on power plants
SCOTTISH Liberal Democrat leader Nicol Stephen today called for more local heat and for power plants to cut carbon emissions and keep homes warm in winter. He said some existing power stations lost more than 60 per cent of their energy in wasted heat.
Oil companies slide due to mild weather in the US
OIL companies dragged the FTSE 100 lower on the last full day of trading this year, offsetting gains in the mining sector. Crude prices remained weak because of mild winter weather in the US, the world's top energy consumer. Royal Dutch Shell slid 10p to pounds 18.02, despite the news that one of its Brazilian offshore oil fields was commercially viable.
Panel favors debris used for power
The majority of members of a task force examining Maine's many trash-related issues favor repealing a state law that prevents power plant operators from firing up biomass boilers solely with wood waste from construction and demolition sites.
Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 010207
Today's activity consisted of a few low level B-class flares from Region 933 (S05E52), which retains its magnetic beta spot group classification. The geomagnetic field ranged from quiet to active conditions. The solar wind speed at ACE is currently elevated at approximately 470 km/s.
Study Shows Louisiana Slowly Slipping Into Gulf
A new report by scientists studying Louisiana's sinking coast says the land here is not just sinking, it's sliding ever so slowly into the Gulf of Mexico. The new findings may add a kink to plans being drawn up to build bigger and better levees to protect this historic city and Cajun bayou culture.
One of the richest yet least-known annual displays of "shooting stars" starts off the new year. But this time around, it will be sharing the sky with a brilliant source of natural "light pollution" - the Full Moon! Despite its interference, this display will still be worth watching.
What's Moving the Oil Markets 010207
•Global crude futures rose in early trading Tuesday helped
by renewed weakness in the dollar against the euro.
•Tues trading was very thin as most Asian markets are closed for a public
holiday. This is unlikely to be compensated with strong US activity as the NYMEX
trading floor will remain closed today due to a nationwide mourning day for
former President Ford.
•At 1045 GMT the February ICE Brent futures contract changed hands at
$61.05/barrel, up 19 cents from the last 2006 settlement. ICE Brent had risen by
up to 60 cents/barrel earlier. Crude futures lost ground earlier on, however,
pressured by several bearish factors, already weighing on sentiment for some
weeks.
•The ongoing warmer temperatures continue to take their toll. Moreover, the gas
dispute between Russia and Ukraine of 2006 did not repeat itself this year with
different players. Belarus late last Sunday agreed to pay Russia $100 per 1,000
cubic meters for Russian gas supplies in 2007, resolving a bitter dispute which
was threatening to cut supplies to Belarus and jeopardize gas transit to Europe.
for Current Events go to: Events
for News of 2006 go to: News_2006
for News of 2005 go to: News_2005
for News of 2004 go to: News of 2004
for Events of 2004 go to: Events of 2004
for News and Events of 2003 go to News and Events Archive 2003
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