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News 2008:

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December 30, 2008

A New Respect for Science

Though Barack Obama’s cabinet appointments have received the big headlines, it is worth noting two important sub-cabinet choices. Both are scientists, committed to using rather than abusing science to address issues like climate change, and a welcome departure from the many ideologues and lobbyists that Dick Cheney assembled to advise President Bush on environmental matters.

Alamosa solar plant's success helps prove resource's viability on large scale

Solar experts said the facility's successful first year of operation should help convince utilities that sun power can be a viable part of the U.S. generation mix, even though its costs are higher and its output more intermittent than traditional coal- and natural-gas-fired generators.

Ancient Water Source Vital For Australia

An ancient underground water basin the size of Libya holds the key to Australia avoiding a water crisis as climate change bites the drought-hit nation.

Boulder City's 'Green' Power Push

Boulder City, the community established for the builders of Hoover Dam, is securing its claim as a hot spot for renewable energy, including solar power.

Bush eyes oil reserves off California coast

The federal government is taking steps that may open California's fabled coast to oil drilling in as few as three years, an action that could place dozens of platforms off the Sonoma, Mendocino and Humboldt coasts, and raises the specter of spills, air pollution and increased ship traffic into San Francisco Bay.

Business, Consumers Must Work Together for Sustainable Consumption

Although people want to live more sustainably, there are still plenty of barriers keeping them from acting in tune with their thoughts. A sustainable society won't be born out of just consumer choices, but out of business actions as well.

California Says Yucca Poses Threat to People, Resources

California is urging federal regulators to turn down the Energy Department's bid to build a nuclear waste repository at Yucca Mountain, charging analysts did not fully study how the plan would affect Death Valley groundwater and the state's transportation networks.

Can Obama's New Energy Policy Work?

Of course, with all this attention now on renewable energy, we're also starting to see the inevitable backlash. Most of which is centered around this idea that we can't generate enough electricity via renewable energy to satisfy our power needs.

CAP report; Where's the (coal) money?

A major coal industry group has spent an estimated $45 million on an ongoing advertising campaign promoting the clean energy potential of coal, but its members are spending relatively little on the research that would make the technology a viable solution

Cities Pushing to Buy, Sell Power; Legislature Must Be Convinced to Give Municipalities Authority to Do So

Homeowners might get cheaper electricity and cities might attract more business if municipalities are able to buy power in bulk and resell it.

Don't Bill Now for New Reactors, Panel Argues

Georgia Power Co.'s customers shouldn't pay $1.6 billion for two power plants before they're built on the site of Plant Vogtle near Waynesboro, say the public-advocacy staff of the Georgia Public Service Commission.

Electric Bills May Rise For Rural Customers

About 1.7 million customers served by a group of rural electric cooperatives face the specter of higher electricity bills because the fee to transport coal by rail will be doubled by CSX Transportation in 2009.

Electric cars coming soon to a road near you

There was the California Zero-Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate, and Chris Paine's documentary, "Who Killed the Electric Car?" There were electrics from General Motors, Honda, Toyota and others, and then they mostly disappeared.

Now, with fresh concerns about global warming and everyone from Silicon Valley's Tesla Motors to big automakers like GM and Toyota talking about the electrification of automobiles,..

Energy plant gets approved

The third plan proved to be the charm for the proposed $300 million tires-to-energy plant.

The city of Erie's Zoning Office on Tuesday gave final zoning approval to revised plans for the controversial project on the city's east side.

Environmental groups sue over EPA mining rule

Environmentalists sued the Bush administration on Monday, trying to stop the Environmental Protection Agency from changing a rule they say keeps mining waste from entering mountain streams.

ExxonMobil Fined $6 Million for Criminal Boston Harbor Spill

The federal government today charged a wholly owned subsidiary of ExxonMobil Corporation with a criminal violation of the Clean Water Act in connection with a spill of 15,000 gallons of diesel oil into the Mystic River from ExxonMobil's oil terminal in Everett, Massachusetts.

Follow the Money

What the Fed’s cut-rate New Year’s party means for 98% of America’s banks.

Gang of 10 Flips Switch on Energy Legislation

Senators in the bipartisan self-named "Gang of 10," who announced a compromise proposal earlier this year, say they still plan to formally unveil their legislation when Congress reconvenes in the new year.

Japan To Bring Back Solar Power Subsidy For Homes

Japan plans to bring back subsidies for solar panel equipment from January, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry said on Wednesday, as the world's fifth-biggest emitter struggles to cut its greenhouse gas emissions.

'Japanese Inuit' warns of climate change danger

As the fields of ice surrounding his home rapidly become thinner, Ikuo Oshima knows firsthand that the effects of global warming are not a problem of the distant future, but a present danger.

Keeping the Lights On and More; R. W. Beck Author Offers Solutions to Sustainable Energy Challenges in the 21st Century

Visions for a Sustainable Energy Future, a book that investigates the future of utilities, offers author Mark Gabriel's perspective on the industry and how America can achieve sustainable energy solutions in a practical, economically feasible way.

Klamath Tribes to buy 90,000-acre Mazama Forest

It’s a new chapter in the history of the landless Klamath Tribes in southern Oregon. They’re buying back part of their lost reservation – and with that returns their tradition of caring for and being nurtured by their native land.

Managing nonprofits in an 'age of hope'

I am inclined to think the Bernard Madoff affair has blown the lid off the financial madness of this decade. We have been living in an age of fraud, and now must rethink the way we do business.

Mesalands wind turbine connected to electric grid

Mesalands Community College's wind turbine is now producing power that's being added to the area's electrical grid.

Mixed Gas Outlook

Power generation is likely to be the only driver for increased natural gas demand this winter as warmer weather and a sluggish economy dampen retail and industry demand, the Natural Gas Supply Association forecast in its annual winter outlook for 2008-2009.

More U.S. Land Area Devoted to Organic Cotton

Carl Pepper, an organic cotton farmer who serves on the board of the Texas Organic Cotton Marketing Cooperative, says he grows organically on his 1,040 acres because, "the organic way is the best system for the land," and also because he gets satisfaction from doing what others said couldn't be done.

New Coal Economics

A perfect storm of rising world coal demand and falling international supplies is creating higher prices for U.S. producers who can sell into the export markets instead of domestically.

Nuclear proposal energizes debate in Missouri

We'll soon see how much Missourians want a new nuclear power plant.

A Missouri utility wants to build a second nuclear plant in Callaway County -- if ratepayers will pony up before the plant opens.

NYMEX crude opens 81 cents lower on steady dollar, weak curve

NYMEX February crude futures opened 81 cents lower at $39.21/barrel Tuesday at 9:00 am EST (1400 GMT) on a steady US dollar and as the front-month crude curve continues to weaken.

The US Dollar Index on ICE was up 7.1 points to 80.756 as NYMEX floor trading opened, but off from its intra-session high of 81.352.

Perspective into the US Real Estate Market

For some perspective into the all-important US real estate market, today's chart illustrates the US median price of a single-family home over the past 38 years.

Petitions Challenge Yucca License Bid

"In a nutshell, we're challenging DOE's capacity to construct and operate a safe repository," said Irene Navis, Clark County's nuclear waste planning manager.

Pollution At Home Often Lurks Unrecognized

Many people may be surprised by the number of chemicals they are exposed to through everyday household products, a small study finds, suggesting, researchers say, that consumers need to learn more about sources of indoor pollution.

Price Gouging. Ratepayers Express Shock Over Exorbitant Electric Bills

Some Bristol residents are steamed over electricity bills that are taking an unprecedented bite out of their wallets when the economy is at its worst in decades.

Responses to plastic pollution

After seeing through the dreadful negative effects, movements have already been launched against plastic pollution.

Saltire Prize 'to Put Scotland on Renewable Energy Map'

Major early interest in a multimillion pound innovation prize will propel Scotland to the forefront of world energy research, the First Minister said yesterday.

Seawater science can help climate change forecasts

A team of scientists has come up with a new definition of seawater which is set to boost the accuracy of projections for oceans and climate.

Oceans help regulate the planet's weather by shifting heat from the equator to the poles. Changes in salinity and temperature are major forces driving global currents as well as circulation patterns from the surface to the seabed.

Solar Power Demand to Soar in Coming Years

Demand for solar energy in Thailand is projected to soar over the next six years, driven by the government's programme to promote renewable energy.

Tennessee Valley Coal Ash Spill Buries 400 Acres, Damages Homes

A retaining wall at the Tennessee Valley Authority's Kingston coal-fired power plant collapsed early Monday morning, causing 2.6 million cubic yards of fly ash to be spilled across hundreds of acres.

The great green hope

Mandates on the use of renewable energy would have a profound impact on the environment, but at what cost?

TVA will make energy from GM plant's old paint

They currently sit in a landfill in Russellville, but they will soon be turned into electricity.

The Tennessee Valley Authority Paradise Fossil Fuel plant in Drakesboro plans to burn recovered paint chips from the General Motors Bowling Green Assembly Plant, turning the would-be waste into energy.

U.S. Edges Out Germany as World Wind Power Leader

The national trade association of America's wind industry says in 2008 the industry had another record growth year - the third record year in a row and generated more than $18 billion in revenues.

UK Government; Strong energy and climate progress in 2008 - but 2009 is crunch year for climate change, says Miliband

Energy and Climate Change Secretary Ed Miliband said 2008 was an historic year for confronting the twin challenges of developing a low-carbon economy and combating climate change, thanks to the agreement on European energy and emission targets, the passing of the world-first Climate Change Act, and strong growth in the UK renewable industry.

US declines protections for seal in energy-rich Arctic waters

The Bush administration plans to announce Tuesday that it will not extend Endangered Species Act protections to a arctic seal that lives in the oil- and gas-rich Chukchi and Beaufort seas.

US Long-term Rates Fall for Eight Consecutive Week Setting Another New Low

Freddie Mac (NYSE:FRE) last week released the results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey (PMMS) in which the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) averaged 5.14 percent with an average 0.8 point for the week ending December 24, 2008, downfrom last week when it averaged 5.19 percent.  Last year at this time, the 30-year FRM averaged 6.17 percent.  The 30-year FRM has not been lower since Freddie Mac started the Primary Mortgage Market Survey in 1971.

US SEC to change oil, gas reserve reporting rules in 2010

The US Securities and Exchange Commission approved new reporting rules
for oil and gas reserves Monday, marking the first change in those rules in 25
years...

Vintage '08 A Mixed Case Of Economy And Ecology

In the world of wine, vintage 2008 was a blend of economy and ecology as financial woes put the brakes on a bull run in prices and more producers went green.

Wind energy gains steam across state

For Randall Nichols, wind energy is not just so much hot air.

It's money...

Wind power is generating a lot of excitement across Iowa, which, state and utility officials note, has population and geographic advantages to push it along.

Winter is No Friend to Green Power

Old Man Winter, it turns out, is no friend of renewable energy.

This time of year, wind turbine blades ice up, biodiesel congeals in tanks and solar panels produce less power because there is not as much sun. And perhaps most irritating to the people who own them, the panels become covered with snow, rendering them useless even in bright winter sunshine.

Wisconsin Renews Push for Solar Power

The state in 2009 will reach for the sun as a renewable energy focus for new and existing developments despite a growing shadow of skepticism.

 

December 24, 2008

This is our ONE newsletter for this week.  HAPPY HOLIDAYS.

 

Americans see global warming, don't want to pay

While a majority of Americans believe the Earth is warming, there is little support among the public to use tax money to address the issue, a new survey suggests.

Analyst warns of 'solar market eclipse' in 2009

Global revenue for photovoltaic (PV) panels is expected to plunge by 19 percent in 2009, following eight consecutive years of growth, as a massive oversupply puts pressure on pricing, according to a forecast by market research firm iSuppli Corp.

Ash leak fuels debate on risks of coal waste

The ash that burst out of a TVA retention pond Monday is the sort of waste that has gotten scrutiny from federal regulators and lawmakers in recent months.

Biomass to the Rescue

Nobody loves biomass. When talk turns to global warming and the green movement, it's hardly ever mentioned. Biomass can be garbage (literally) or wood chips or sugar-cane remnants or grass.

Still, among energy experts, biomass has some strong supporters, and for good reason:

Coal River mine permit challenge by wind proponents

Environmental groups said Thursday they are appealing the Manchin administration's approval of a key permit change for a Massey Energy strip mine at a site where citizen groups are promoting alternative plans for a wind-energy facility.

D.C. Court of Appeals vacates pollution limits rule

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit has vacated a federal rule that allowed refineries, chemical plants and other industrial sites to exceed federal pollution limits during startup, shutdown and malfunction.

Electricity bills to increase this February

Electricity bills for Entergy customers will go up as the result of a rate increase tentatively approved by state regulators.

Environmental groups applaud Obama´s nominees

President-elect Barack Obama will nominate former Iowa Gov. Tom Vilsack as secretary of agriculture and Sen. Ken Salazar, D-Colo., as secretary of the interior.

Environmental groups sue over EPA mining rule

Environmentalists sued the Bush administration on Monday, trying to stop the Environmental Protection Agency from changing a rule they say keeps mining waste from entering mountain streams.

First U.S. Offshore Wind Farm Project Moves Forward

A plan to build the United States' first offshore wind farm took another step forward on Tuesday, after the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection approved its proposed undersea cables to transmit power to the mainland.

Funding for Clean Energy Projects Can Provide Immediate Stimulus and Long-Term Economic Benefits

One of the first and most important jobs for the new Congress in January will be to pass an economic stimulus bill to jump start the economy, create jobs, and revitalize American industry – a tall order, which could cost between $500 billion and $1 trillion. Therefore, it is critical for this legislation to fund projects that not only will create jobs and economic activity in the near term but also will strengthen our long-term economic security, and that includes addressing the urgent threat of climate change

Geothermic Energy Could Power All Nations

A new renewable energy technology could truly revolutionize the way energy is produced around the world for a fraction of the cost of what we all pay for electricity now. There are zero emissions, zero heat loss to atmosphere, and this energy can last indefinitely into the future with no damage to local or larger ecosystems. It is called "GEOthermic Energy" (as opposed to Geothermal) and it uses the deep crust (lithosphere) heat.

Grassroots electricity

The ability to sell excess electricity back to the grid is improving for Kentuckians who generate their own power via solar, wind or other renewable systems, according to a report released last week.

Groups sue for coal plant compliance

A coalition of environmental groups has filed a lawsuit trying to force the federal government to comply with a 6-year-old mandate to reduce toxic chemical emissions from coal-fired power plants.

Hansen to Obama; Support a Carbon Tax

Eminent climatologist James Hansen will urge U.S. President-elect Barack Obama to support a carbon tax, in a letter to be sent this week, Hansen said.

Hemlock, MI, USA; Hemlock Joint Ventures to Invest up to $3 Billion to Expand Polysilicon Production

The Hemlock Semiconductor Group, which includes two Dow Corning Corporation joint ventures, Hemlock Semiconductor Corporation and Hemlock Semiconductor LLC, will invest up to $3.0 billion to expand polycrystalline silicon (polysilicon) production, a key raw material used to manufacture solar cells and semiconductor devices.

IEA Radically Changes Assumptions On Peak Oil

In its 2007 World Energy Outlook, the IEA predicted a rate of decline in output from the world's existing oilfields of 3.7% a year--based admittedly on assumptions.

But the new report, published last month, projected a rate of decline of 6.7%, a number the Agency says is based on the first major study of the world's 800 largest oil fields.

Inbox 122308

The Obama Green Team is in place. And now we´ll see just how much greener the United States will get in the years to come.

International Hydrogen Energy Association Reaches Key Emerging Markets

Dr. Zong Qiang Mao, President of CAHE, believes that “China’s rise in hydrogen RD&D has matured significantly in the last year. The China Association for Hydrogen Energy will now be able to participate constructively in the international partnership of hydrogen stakeholders that PATH represents.”

Making the Green Industries Shovel-Ready for Obama's Jobs Program

When President-elect Barack Obama announced his vast jobs program for everything from bridges to green technology, the New York Times sniffed the "plan, if enacted, would be in part a government-directed industrial policy, with lawmakers and administration officials picking winners and losers among private projects and raining large amounts of taxpayer money on them."

Momentum builds for energy independence

Breaking America's foreign-oil addiction was all the rage on Capitol Hill when gas cost $4 a gallon. Now that it's under $2 and falling, history suggests the enthusiasm for alternative fuels and more-efficient cars will subside. It did that in the mid-1970s and again in the '80s and '90s.

New TVA nuclear plant cost could top current sites

The cost of building the Bellefonte Nuclear Plant in Alabama could be more than the Tennessee Valley Authority spent to build all three of its current nuclear generating stations.

The federal utility says in its latest filing to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission that industry estimates to build an advanced twin-reactor nuclear plant like Bellefonte, including escalating construction costs and interest expenses, could be $9.8 billion to $17.5 billion.

Obama left with little time to curb global warming

When Bill Clinton took office in 1993, global warming was a slow-moving environmental problem that was easy to ignore. Now it is a ticking time bomb that President-elect Barack Obama can't avoid.

Obama names science and technology team

U.S. President-elect Barack Obama has named four key members of his science and technology team, saying science holds the key to the planet's survival and U.S. prosperity.

Obama Picks Climate Specialist As Science Adviser

Holdren is a Harvard University physicist who has focused on the causes and consequences of climate change and advocated policies aimed at sustainable development. He has also done extensive research on the dangers of nuclear weapons.

Obama's Oil Slide

Recall the windfall profits tax? No, not the one implemented as part of the Jimmy Carter presidential administration. It's the one proposed by candidate Barack Obama earlier in the year -- the one that would make Big Oil pay a tax on their "excessive" profits and the one that would shift that money over to ordinary folks to pay energy bills.

Oil Executives Become Renewable Energy Converts

While oil executives have traditionally been die-hard optimists regarding the future of black gold, the industry has been undergoing a quiet revolution

Oil Falls Below $39 On Economic Gloom

Oil prices fell another 2.3 percent to below $39 a barrel on Tuesday as a raft of gloomy economic data reinforced expectations that world energy demand will shrink for the first time in 25 years.

Power for Iraq - Siemens supplies key components for gas power plants

The Siemens Sector Energy has secured a major contract from Iraq for the supply of key components for the expansion of the country's power system. The purchaser is the Iraqi Ministry of Electricity.

Red Flags as Washington Gears Up to Remake Energy Policy

Obama's pick for energy secretary has argued for regulation and higher prices to rein in energy consumption -- precisely what Washington has been avoiding for 30 years.

Renewable energy is pushed statewide

The state’s energy czar says his new energy initiative could put Alaska entirely on clean, renewable power.

That is, if someone’s willing to pay for it.

Such an effort could reach into the billions of dollars.

Renewable Power Projects Using Elephant Grass

Despite the world's financial and economic crisis, electric energy consumption in Brazil is growing at 5% a year. ..There is a list of renewable projects that fit in very well here in Brazil.

Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 122208

ACE measured increases in temperature, density and wind velocity, all indicative of a co-rotating interaction region in advance of a recurrent coronal hole high speed stream. During this period, solar wind speed increased to near 400 km/s...

The geomagnetic field is forecasted to be quiet to unsettled with isolated active periods on 23 December. On 24 - 25 December, effects from the coronal hole are expected to wane, and as a result, the geomagnetic field will be mostly quiet.

Russia urges global coordinated action to stabilize energy market

Russian energy minister Sergei Shmatko said Tuesday the world's leading energy powers should coordinate action to stabilize energy markets.

State looks to toughen laws for use of fly ash

Regulations that allowed the sculpting of a Chesapeake golf course with more than a million tons of fly ash are about to be reopened and possibly tightened to better protect the environment.

Early this month, Virginia regulators took the first step toward amending a set of rules governing fly ash and other "coal-combustion byproducts" generated by the burning of coal for electricity.

Fly ash contains arsenic, lead and other contaminants that can pose threats to the environment through air and water.

Tough Climate Goals May Be Easier Than Feared

Tough targets for avoiding dangerous global warming may be easier to achieve than widely believed, according to a study that could ease fears of a prohibitive long-term surge in costs.

Treasury Releases Term Sheet for Automotive Plan

Secretary Paulson Statement on Stabilizing the Automotive Industry

U.S. Needs $500 Billion Clean Tech Investment, 5 Million Green Jobs

A new plan for reviving and strengthening the U.S. economy calls for an investment of $500 billion over 10 years on a range of energy, education, construction, building and manufacturing programs that would create 5 million jobs.

Up on the Roof, New Jobs in Solar Power

Although he may have to work 50 feet off the ground, Spencer Bockus, 22, likes his job installing solar panels “because I’m helping the environment.”

US court allows CAIR to remain in effect while EPA fixes rule

A federal court on Tuesday said that the controversial Clean Air Interstate Rule that created an emissions trading program for coal-fired power plants can stay in place until the US Environmental Protection Agency fixes it in accordance with an earlier order that threw out the rule.

US Weather Commentary 122308

Arctic Blast rocks U.S. Coast-to-Coast on early days of Astronomical Winter.....

-Mild weather to bring 'traditional' reprieve from Texas to New England for final week of 2008.....

- Arctic Regime for Northern Hubs looks to resume again during  first week of 2009.....

Utilities Find New Ways to Cope

From winter's ice and heavy snow to summer's tropical storms and hurricanes, extreme weather has been offering North America's electric utilities repeated lessons in emergency preparedness. Further, it has raised questions in state after state about whether utility companies are adequately prepared to respond to the storm-related outages, and what additional measures need to be taken in the future to improve reliability.

Utilities Seek Stimulus Money to Improve Energy Efficiency

A utility association that represents 70 percent of the U.S. power industry joined environmental and energy groups Friday in calling on Congress and the new administration to jump-start the economy by helping Americans save energy.

Vessel Discharges Require Permit

A new general permit will reduce releases of 26 types of discharges from vessels operating in U.S. waters. Beginning Dec. 19, approximately 61,000 domestically flagged commercial vessels and 8,000 foreign flagged vessels will need to comply with the permit.

Warmer oceans would fuel more thunderstorms

Inhabitants of the tropics can expect to see more severe storms if sea-surface temperatures in the region continue to rise as Earth’s climate changes.

Why wait for tax breaks?

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid on Tuesday said he intends to push legislation that would allow renewable energy developers to receive eight years of tax credits in one year.

Wind Energy More Economically Sound Than Mountaintop Removal Mining

The study shows that wind development is a better economic land use option than mountaintop removal coal mining, not only for Coal River Mountain, but potentially for all areas in southern West Virginia that exhibit good wind potential, the group said.

The study shows that the proposed Coal River wind farm, consisting of 164 wind turbines and generating 328 megawatts (MW) of electricity, would provide more than US $1.74 million in annual property taxes to Raleigh County. By comparison, the coal severance taxes related to the mountaintop removal mining would provide the county with only US $36,000 per year.

 

December 19, 2008

 

BP Solar Announces Completion of Solar Power Pilot Project

BP Solar today announced the completion of its solar power construction program for Wal-Mart. The company recently completed construction of three sites in California...

California Rules To Cut Diesel Truck Pollution Called Most Sweeping In U.S.

The California Air Resources Board recently approved two diesel truck regulations that will dramatically cut the largest source of diesel pollution in the state and are the first of their kind in the United States, according to Environmental Defense Fund (EDF).

Chairmen urge Obama to enforce Clean Water Act

Two House committee chairmen have written a letter urging president-elect Barack Obama to beef up enforcement of the Clean Water Act once his administration takes office next month.

Coal Should Be Warming Concern; Scientists

Global warming scenarios are based on oil reserves, but those reserves will have less impact on global climate than the extent to which liquefied coal replaces oil and gas, scientists said at a meeting of the American Geophysical Union in San Francisco.

Credit Crunch Cuts 13% From US Water Infrastructure Spending, But Long-Term Growth Is Guaranteed

America's failing water and wastewater sector looks set to decline further in 2009, as capital expenditure on crucial infrastructure projects is cut back by 12.9%, according to Water Market USA*, published today by Global Water Intelligence. Restraints on borrowing, shrinking tax bases and a drop in capital contributions from property developers have derailed investment plans, the report suggests.

'Death Map' Shows Heat A Big Hazard To Americans

Heat is more likely to kill an American than an earthquake, and thunderstorms kill more people than hurricanes do, according to a US "death map" published on Tuesday.

Deepwater Offshore Wind Power Generation Using Oil and Gas Platform Technology

Previously confined to shallow water installations or land, deep water wind power may be the next frontier for wind developers.

The key to this future source of energy may come from the technology that originated with fossil fuels.

DOE Projects Slowing in Coal Use

Coal's share of U.S. energy supply is expected to drop slightly over the next two decades as regulators, investors and utilities drop plans for new coal-fired power plants, the U.S. Department of Energy said this week.

Duke Energy using electric hybrids to save on costs

Duke Energy is taking its use of electricity to a whole new level.

As part of a companywide initiative to educate customers and reduce fuel use, Duke Energy has brought in a small fleet of plug-in hybrid vehicles, or PHEVs, to show off the benefits of such cars.

Energy secretary nominee sees coal as 'nightmare'

President-elect Barack Obama's pick for U.S. energy secretary isn't sold on the idea that technology to capture greenhouse emissions and pump them underground will save the coal industry.

EU lawmakers approve deal to fight climate change

The European Parliament approved on Wednesday a deal on cutting greenhouse gas emissions, the final step in a year of talks to secure the world's broadest agreement yet to battle climate change.

Fish Farming Continues to Grow as World Fisheries Stagnate

World seafood production neared a record 160 million tons in 2006 thanks to aquaculture, or fish farming, which increased by more than 3 million tons. In contrast, fish caught in the wild declined for the second year in a row.

Governor Bill Richardson Announces Signet Solar to Build Production Facility in Belen Creating 600 Jobs

Governor Bill Richardson today announced Signet Solar will build the company's first North American solar panel production facility in Belen. The first phase of the plant will bring 200 high-wage jobs to the state and is scheduled to begin operations in 2010. Signet's long-term plans call for expansion and the creation of a total of 600 jobs.

Holes In Earth's Magnetic Cloak Let The Sun In

The Earth's protective magnetosphere has two large holes that are letting in disruptive solar winds, scientists said on Tuesday.

Hopi crisis reaching boiling point

On this Sunday afternoon dozens of cars lined the dirt road to the Veterans Center for the annual Christmas parade featuring Indian Santas and young tribal royalty. Those participating in the small parade threw candy and traditional blue corn treats to smiling spectators. The smiles are in contrast to what’s been described as a sad time in Hopi history, a reference to the web of political wrangling, which began a-year-and-a-half ago.

How Significant is Bear Market

How significant is this bear market? It all depends on how you measure. When measured in US dollars, the Dow currently trades 39.5% off its October 2007 record high.

However, when measured with that other world currency (gold), the picture is actually more dismal.

Isolated people on the run again in Paraguay

After losing almost 15,000 acres of their land to an illegal ranching business in the last six months, an isolated/uncontacted tribe in Paraguay is getting some official assistance from their government and from indigenous activists; but the struggle to protect the Ayoreo-Totobiegosode is far from over.

Mexico Vows to Cut Carbon Pollution 50 Percent by 2050

Mexico is pledging to cut its carbon pollution in half by 2050 in an effort to address climate change.

Mine safety hurt by cuts, agency warns

Budget cuts will prevent Kentucky from doubling the number of safety inspections at coal mines next year as mandated by lawmakers in 2007 following a series of fatal mining accidents.

National Coalition Announces Push To Create A Forest Watershed Restoration Corps

Borrowing a page from history and one of the most popular New Deal programs, The Legacy Roads Restoration Initiative recently proposed a program to create a $500M Forest Watershed Restoration Corps within the National Forest Service. T

Northeast CO2 Output Drops On Fuel Switch, Demand

Carbon dioxide emissions from power generators in 10 US Northeastern states are on track to fall steeply in 2008 on softer prices for cleaner-burning natural gas and lighter electricity demand, according to a report released Monday.

Nuclear Power in a Small Package; LANL Has Stake In Mini-Reactor

It sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie: A nuclear reactor smaller than an SUV that could produce electricity for 20,000 homes.

Obama's likely pick for Interior secretary draws fire, praise

Colorado Senator Ken Salazar, widely seen as President-elect Barack
Obama's choice for US Interior Department secretary, has opposed many Bush
efforts to open the West to increased energy development.

One Last Chance; Starting a Green Business

I live in Michigan with my family. We have owned our own construction business for over 10 years now, but with the economy we have watched everything we built slip away and like many others, we now find ourselves at a crossroad that we cannot deny. Either we try to wait for better days, or we change course to something new.

Progress Energy Florida to Continue Clean-Air Investments and Retire Two Coal Units

Progress Energy Florida (NYSE: PGN) and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) announced a landmark agreement today that will protect the environment, continue investments in air emission-reduction equipment and cost-effectively manage a significant reduction in the company's use of coal-fired power generation.

Renewable energy law comes into force

Philippines--The President said the new legislation is the "first and most comprehensive renewable energy law in Southeast Asia" that would enable the Philippines to capture a part of the soaring investments in renewable energy development worldwide pegged at $71 billion last year.

Reversal of stream buffer rule likely under Obama

The stream buffer zone rule that allows disposal of mining debris within 100
feet of streams will most likely be reversed by President-elect Obama and his
Interior Department appointee, according to investment bank FBR Capital
Markets.

River Pilot's Jealousy Linked To Massive Oil Spill

A river pilot's jealousy sparked a chain of unfortunate events that led to July's massive oil spill that shut down a long stretch of the Mississippi River near New Orleans.

Solar Matrix

Everyday before we wake up the Sun sends us the life-giving light and the heat from a distance of 148.8 million kilometers in the form of sunshine.

The sunshine also contains tremendous energy called “Solar Energy.” Our scientists have known that solar radiation falling on the surface of the Earth is equivalent to 170 trillion kilowatts of electricity. An eight days’ sunshine is equal to a total of all fossil-fuel deposits we have today!

Solar PPA's Can Help Solar Get Past Reccesion

According to the new report from AltaTerra Research "Financing Growth: Will Solar PPAs Shine in Dark Times?", the booming new market of solar power purchase agreements (PPAs), near-term growth shows modest gains and the long-term outlook is exponential.

South Korea, Japan to Conduct Nuclear Fusion Studies

South Korea completed the Korea Superconducting Tokamak Advanced Research (KSTAR), a Korean nuclear fusion energy device, last year, which started generating plasma in June with preparations underway to begin earnest scientific experiments next year.

T. Boone Pickens to Address EnergyBiz

Energy Central, the leading resource in the global power industry for news, events, databases, insight and analysis, announced today that T. Boone Pickens will be a keynote speaker at the first annual EnergyBiz Leadership Forum (http://www.energybizforum.com). 

The Opec Dilemma, Price and Production Cost vs Falling Demand and Global Recession

Understanding this global market is something that many claim to be able to do but few ever seem to succeed in getting it right. In recent years, the world has had to live with volatility in energy prices and with serious consequences for many consuming nations culminating in the current global economic situation.

US 30-Year Fixed Rate Falls to at Least a 37 –Year Low

Freddie Mac (NYSE:FRE) yesterday released the results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey (PMMS) in which the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) averaged 5.19 percent with an average 0.7 point for the week ending December 18, 2008, downfrom last week when it averaged 5.47 percent.  Last year at this time, the 30-year FRM averaged 6.14 percent.  The 30-year FRM has not been lower since Freddie Mac started the Primary Mortgage Market Survey in 1971.

US DOE weighing release of uranium stocks to fuel new US reactors

The US Department of Energy is considering making thousands of metric tons of natural uranium available for sale to US nuclear operators to use in the initial cores of new reactors, it said Tuesday.

US EPA says CO2 limits not required in coal-fired plant permits

The outgoing head of the US Environmental Protection Agency declared Thursday that limits on carbon dioxide emissions need not be considered binding in pre-construction permits for new coal-fired power plants unless the agency or Congress mandate such limits.

Utah oil, gas lease sale to go forward despite lawsuit; US BLM

A coalition of seven environmental groups filed suit in federal court Wednesday to stop parts of a controversial Utah oil and gas lease sale scheduled for Friday, but the US Bureau of Land Management said Thursday it would still go forward with the sale.

Utility installs giant batteries in Milton

A 1.2-megawatt battery installed in June 2006 in North Charleston relieves a  bottleneck at the utility's Chemical Substation. It is charged at night when electricity demand is low and is discharged into the electric grid during afternoons, when demand peaks.

Waiting for 2009

As 2008 draws to a close, we are waiting for financial markets to absorb the string of troubles that hammer away at confidence in organized markets around the globe. We wait for President Elect Obama to be sworn into office, completing the transition to his administration that will be dealing with the economic crisis in addition to the other major challenges facing the new administration. We wait to see if the steps to address the financial problems will be able to stop the bleeding.

Wind, Water and Sun Beat Biofuels, Nuclear and Coal for Energy Generation, Study Says

The best ways to improve energy security, mitigate global warming and reduce the number of deaths caused by air pollution are blowing in the wind and rippling in the water, not growing on prairies or glowing inside nuclear power plants, says Mark Z. Jacobson, a professor of civil and environmental engineering at Stanford.

 

December 16, 2008

 

A Blue Christmas at China's North Pole

Since reforms started 30 years ago, China hasn't been able to keep peasants down on the farm anymore — and that was a resounding sign of success. Now, as Christmas approaches, China's North Pole is shutting down, and millions may have to stream back to the farms. For the leaders in Beijing and in the provinces, that's not success. That's trouble.

Area residents air concerns about power line

Gazing at a large map outlining possible routes for a new high-voltage power line, resident Sue Johnson had plenty of questions.

Bush administration plans to sign nuclear agreement with UAE

It is expected to be first nuclear-cooperation agreement between the United States and a Middle East country, according to the report, the administration also seeks to sign similar pacts with Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Bahrain.

Bush's Giveaway of America's Redrock Wilderness

No one voted on Election Day to hand over Utah's Redrock wilderness to oil companies.

But the Bush Administration cynically chose that very day to advance an outrageous plan that will sell off leases for some 300,000 acres of spectacular Utah\ canyonlands to oil and gas speculators.

California Passes Rules for Cleaner Diesel Trucks

California on Friday became the first state in the country to force big diesel trucks to clean up their exhaust, despite warnings from truckers the new rules will force them out of business.

Cigarette litter drops 46% for communities in program

Cigarette litter has dropped by 46% in communities participating in a Keep America Beautiful program that targets the problem.

Electric Car Maker Zenn Sees Growth Environment

As hope endures for a bailout to salvage the struggling U.S. auto sector, Canadian electric car maker Zenn Motor Co may once again find itself in the right place at the right time.

How I Got Screwed by Bernie Madoff

The call came at 6 p.m. on Thursday, December 11th. I had been waiting for it for five years. When it finally arrived it was my wife, Sarah, who answered. What the person said on the other end of the phone was both simple and devastating: we were financially wiped out.

Kentucky energy reform at forefront

For years, Kentucky House Majority Leader Rocky Adkins has been saying Kentucky can be considered a national model for energy reform. A recent vote by a national panel of The Council of State Goverments proves he was correct.

Lawmakers Seek Bigger, Greener Power Grid

Now, as the current economic downturn deepens, there is talk of another major public works project for the Northwest - one that would deliver green wind power to the Interstate 5 corridor, which connects Seattle and Portland, and, by some estimates, help create 50,000 jobs.

Madoff Victims Look for Ways to Recover Their Money

Victims of the alleged Bernard Madoff investing scam are finding they have more legal options than usual to try to get back their stolen funds, but experts say that won't make recovering their losses any easier.

New agency to be global 'voice of renewables'

The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), which was initially driven by Denmark, Germany and Spain, will be the first worldwide agency solely dedicated to promoting renewable energy, acting as the "voice of renewable energy", according to its website.

Obama's environment choices send a message

Administration 'will value science,' president-elect says in nominating Nobel laureate for energy chief

Obama's 'Green Dream Team' is Warmly Received

One is a Nobel Prize winner overseeing research of alternative energy. The three others all have one thing in common: experience working for the Environmental Protection Agency

Obama's Green Economy

Is it a bail-out or a build-up? That's the question being put to federal lawmakers right now as they try to grapple with the nation's economic woes and with how to allocate its depleting resources.

Over 2T tons of ice melted in arctic since '03

More than 2 trillion tons of land ice in Greenland, Antarctica and Alaska have melted since 2003, according to new NASA satellite data that show the latest signs of what scientists say is global warming

Study; Biomass may be good energy source

Some German scientists say a global energy supply based on biomass is a realistic. sustainable and economical possibility, contrary to current thinking.

Utah BLM Defers Energy Leasing Near National Parks

This coming Friday, the Bureau of Land Management Utah will offer over 300,000 acres for energy leases in a hotly disputed lease sale, but the federal agency has deferred leasing some of the most contentious parcels.

Water; The Forgotten Crisis

This year, the world and, in particular, developing countries and the poor have been hit by both food and energy crises. As a consequence, prices for many staple foods have risen by up to 100%. When we examine the causes of the food crisis, a growing population, changes in trade patterns, urbanization, dietary changes, biofuel production, and climate change and regional droughts are all responsible.

What's the difference between a good Ponzi scheme and a bad Ponzi scheme?

Bernard Madoff appears to have operated a Ponzi scheme, in which money from new investors was used to pay off those who got in earlier. But there are other, perfectly legitimate financial endeavors that share this same basic model.

The most obvious is Social Security ...

 

December 12, 2008

 

ACC gives go-ahead for big solar project

The Arizona Corporation Commission has approved the location of a 280 megawatt solar-power project near Gila Bend that is expected to produce electricity for about 70,000 homes.

Alternative Energy Association Announces Three Point Plan to Stimulate America's Economy

Alternative Energy Association, Inc., a Florida-based non-profit organization has announced its Three Point Plan to stimulate the American economy, reduce our dependence on foreign oil and create millions of new jobs.

Americans cut back, but permanent thrift elusive

Single mother Kelly Dukes has lost her house, her car and her salary, but rather than curse the U.S. recession, the Cincinnati mom said she's grateful to have learned a whole new way to live.

Arizona approves surface water quality standards

Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) Director Steve Owens announced today that the Governor's Regulatory Review Council (GRRC) has approved standards developed by ADEQ to protect surface water quality throughout the state. GRRC is the state body required to review regulations of state agencies before they can become law.

Australia To Set 10% Carbon Reduction Target

The Australian government has endorsed a carbon emissions reduction target of 10 percent by 2020, following the introduction of a carbon trading scheme in 2010, the Australian Financial Review paper said on Wednesday.

Biomass meeting draws strong interest

A standing-room-only crowd packed a meeting room at the Helena Regional Airport Monday to learn more about the potential to turn wood into energy, but not all who attended left convinced it is an economical idea.

Britain Pledges Millions For Biomass Heating

The British government has pledged around 12 million pounds ($17.74 million) to help cover the costs of buying and installing biomass-fueled heating, it said on Wednesday.

Bush publishes changes to mountaintop removal rule

The Bush administration on Friday will publish its final rule to revoke key water quality protections, a move that critics say helps to protect mountaintop removal coal mining from tougher restrictions.

California retailers must have 33pct RE by 2020

Californian Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has signed Executive Order S-14-08, revising California's existing Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) upward to require all retail sellers of electricity to serve 33% of their load from renewable energy sources by 2020.

California Will Create Green Economic Stimulus Package By Implementing Global Warming Solutions Act, New Study Says

California will create a green economic stimulus plan that will serve as a national model by implementing the historic Global Warming Solutions Act (AB 32), according to a new study released recently.

Chemicals Remain in Public Drinking Water After Treatment

Low levels of manufactured chemicals remain in public water supplies even after they have been treated in selected community water facilities across the country, according to new research conducted by the U.S. Geological Survey and released today.

Cool Earth Is Scaling Up Solar Energy Generation

Imagine a 1-megawatt solar power plant that has nothing to do with vast swaths of PV panels or mirrored troughs in a barren desert environment that require new transmission lines to population centers. Instead, picture a rolling, grassy field populated with 500 vertical poles that each hold two 8-foot-wide balloons

Coral Reef Loss Suggests Global Extinction Event

Rapid releases of greenhouse gas emissions are changing habitats at a rate faster than many of the world's species can tolerate.

County pushes for solar-power funding measure

Dona Ana County N.M officials are asking the state Legislature to back a measure that would make solar energy equipment more affordable for homeowners.

Dynegy to rethink new coal-fired power projects

Citing the high cost of capital and difficulty in permitting new coal-fired power plants, Williamson said the company wants to protect cash flow and avoid complex financial arrangements.

ENSO-neutral or La Niña conditions are equally likely through early 2009

ENSO-neutral conditions continued during November 2008, although equatorial sea surface temperatures (SSTs) remained below-average across much of the central and eastern Pacific Ocean.

EPA Abandons Attempts to Change Clean Air Rules

The Bush administration has dropped plans to adopt two Clean Air Act rules that would have allowed power plants and other polluters to increase smog and soot pollution.

Europe's Energy Future Changed Today

The target means that more than one third of EU electricity must come from renewables in 2020 and wind energy will be the biggest contributor. Moreover, the directive addresses existing barriers that prevent Europe from fully exploiting its largest domestic energy resource.

Evidence mounts of plants switching to residual fuel oil from gas

Although the percentage of utility power plants that can switch from natural gas to residual fuel oil is small, the evidence of notable fuel-switching away from gas is mounting, analysts and industry players say.

Good Kharma...Thought for Today

wonderful to read. Only takes a few minutes, .. you’ll like it…

Mantra.pps

 

Korean Air Partners With Los Angeles To Plant And Care For Urban Trees

Korean Air recently announced that it is donating $160,000 to the Million Trees Los Angeles (MTLA) initiative developed by Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa to create and sustain urban forestry.

Manchin; Coal remains energy 'cornerstone'

W.Va.Gov. Joe Manchin said Tuesday that he opposes President-elect Barack Obama's plan to cap greenhouse gas emissions to try to curb global warming.

Man-Made Chemicals Found In Drinking Water At Low Levels

Low levels of certain man-made chemicals remain in public water supplies after being treated in selected community water facilities.

Water from nine selected rivers, used as a source for public water systems, was analyzed in a study by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).

More Universities Offering Master's Degree Programs in Renewable Energy

In an effort to help ease the the pain of jobs losses throughout the state and bolster the work force that will be necessary if the U.S. is going to transition to a green economy, four universities in Ohio are collaborating to offer a Masters degree program in renewable energy.

New Mexico, Land of Windchantment

New Mexico, nicknamed the Land of Enchantment, is rapidly becoming the "Land of Windchantment." There is a veritable wind land rush taking place in the state, with a plethora of wind developers signing wind power leases with ranchers across the eastern plains.

Obama Energy Pick Strong Green Voice; Experts

U.S. President-elect Barack Obama has backed up his campaign promise to focus on green energy with an energy secretary nominee who experts say will provide scientific expertise and pragmatism to the search for new, clean sources of fuel.

Obama to pick physicist Steven Chu as US DOE chief; CNN

US President-elect Barack Obama will choose physicist Steven Chu as his energy secretary, CNN reported Wednesday, citing sources close to the Obama transition team.

Obama Would 'Save the Planet' By Repowering America

President-elect Barack Obama signaled that he is ready to tackle the climate crisis immediately upon taking office, following a meeting Tuesday with former Vice President Al Gore and Vice President-elect Joe Biden.

"All three of us are in agreement that the time for delay is over, the time for denial is over," Obama said.

Obama's pick for US energy secretary seen aiding technology push

US President-elect Barack Obama's reported pick for energy secretary, Nobel-prize winning scientist Steven Chu, would bring a technical expertise to the position that would make him effective at combating greenhouse gas emissions and promoting alternative energy, according to observers.

October US highway miles traveled down 3.5pct; agency

Total automobile travel in the US in October declined 3.5% from October 2008, or 9 billion vehicle miles, according to the Federal Highway Administration.

Oil executives concerned about future of hydrocarbons

A recent survey of senior oil and natural gas industry professionals uncovered concerns about the affordability and sustainability of hydrocarbons as an energy source, along with a "surprisingly" strong belief in the viability of renewable energy, major financial services company Deloitte reported Wednesday.

Oil Spill Off California Reminder of Offshore Drilling Danger

More than 70 people from federal, state and private sector organizations worked today to clean up an undetermined amount of oil that spilled from a platform off the coast of Santa Barbara County on Sunday.

One-Fifth of the World's Corals Are Dead; Climate Change to Blame

The world has lost 19 percent of its coral reefs, according to the 2008 global update of the world's reef status issued today. Climate change is considered the biggest threat to coral reefs.

OPEC-11 cut output by 825,000 bd to 28.16 mil bd in Nov; IEA

OPEC crude output fell to 31.33 million b/d in November, down 760,000 b/d
from October, as an agreement by 11 of the group's member countries to cut
production came into force, the International Energy Agency said Thursday.

Power-Gen; Energy Diversity Is Key to Success

At the Power-Gen International conference -- an event with over 1,200 exhibitors in the coal, oil and natural gas industries -- you might not expect renewables to play an important role in the conversation around energy. But as businesses in the conventional energy sector are now convinced that a carbon cap and trade system and a federal renewable electricity standard in the U.S. are coming soon, there's no way around it: Renewables are here to stay.

Public water agencies throughout California file suit to prevent further water cutbacks

The Westlands Water District today joined with 31 other public water agencies in the Central Valley in filing a lawsuit to block a new regulation that would enable state Fish and Game officials to cut off up to a million acre feet of water for two-thirds of California's people.

Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 1211008

Region 1009 (S25W73) produced a C1 flare today at 0925Z as well as a few B-class flares. The geomagnetic field was quiet during the past 24 hours. The greater
than 2 MeV electron flux reached high levels during the past 24 hours.

Residents eye line proposal

Maps were the hot commodity Wednesday in La Crosse.

That's because virtually everyone wanted to know just how close a high-power electric transmission line might come to their property.

The Energy Shadow Government

Washington civil servants are bracing for that personnel hurricane that sweeps through the federal bureaucracy every eight years or so, when a new administration places thousands of political appointees in all the top jobs -- and some not-so-top jobs.

The Shape of Green Things to Come in 2009

It's the end of another year, an appropriate time for a forward look at energy and environmental issues. Many ideas are buzzing around Washington D.C. policy circles now. What policies will be implemented, when will they be implemented and how will they be implemented? These are important questions.

US 'key' to unlocking post-Kyoto deadlock; IEA chief

The US is the key to unlocking the deadlock in UN climate change talks that seek to secure a new deal to replace the Kyoto Protocol, the head of the International Energy Agency said Wednesday.

Waste morphs into energy; More methane could reduce costs

Sun seekers and swimmers put off by slimy, foul-smelling cladophora algae covering Lake Michigan beaches and rocky shorelines in summer have a pair of new allies in the ongoing battle with the nuisance plant: Daniel Zitomer and hungry microbes.

Wave power put to the test in Monterey Bay

The 60-foot Velocity motored out of Santa Cruz harbor Monday afternoon under mostly sunny skies. On deck was an apprehensive crew -- scientists with research group SRI International of Menlo Park, observers from the Department of Energy and financiers with the Tokyo-based Hyper Drive Corp.

Wetter and wilder; the signs of warming everywhere

In the third part of our series on the eve of the Poznan conference, we look at how climate change is already changing ordinary people's lives from Australia to Brazil

What to Do When 50 Percent of Workforce Vanishes

Bye-bye Baby Boomers. Will the last experienced person in the energy industry please turn the lights out when you leave?

From a human capital standpoint, the state of the energy industry is not good

Whipping up Support for Transmission

Supporters of wind power are whipping up support for new transmission. Without a notable increase in the capacity to carry such energy, the optimistic forecasts for more renewable power will never happen.

Wind project better than strip mining

Strip-mining the area will do more harm than good for local communities, if environmental damage and health effects are taken into account, according to the report prepared for the group Coal River Mountain Watch.

 

December 9, 2008

 

Americans Want Clean Energy, Not More Oil to Solve Energy Crisis

New Polling Shows That Most Americans Believe Now Is The Time For Clean Energy Investments

Balance of Wind and Wildlife is Advocated

'Twas a case of the prairie chicken or the wind at Wednesday's conference on renewable energy sources.

Bangladesh Plans to Import Coal

Bangladesh is planning to import coal from three countries for establishing new power plants in the country in future, said a top official.

Bayer pushes energy efficiency

A national energy program quickly implemented could eliminate the need for most new power plants through the year 2030, the leader of the Natural Resources Defense Council said Thursday.

Clean Energy Poised to Phase Out Coal and Avert Catastrophic Climate Change

New technologies will permit rapid decarbonization of the world energy economy in the next two decades, according to a new report from the Worldwatch Institute. These new energy sources will make it possible to retire hundreds of coal-fired power plants that now provide 40 percent of the world's power by 2030, eliminating up to one-third of global carbon dioxide emissions while creating millions of new jobs.

Climate impact, rates debated at coal plant hearing

The rate impact of Alliant Energy's planned coal-burning power plant in Marshalltown on consumers will soon be decided.

Coal to remain main German power price driver, downward trend

German forward power's most important price driver in 2008 was and will remain coal, Marcus Bokermann, head of research at Swiss utility EGL, told a cross-border power conference in Vienna Tuesday.

Congress Should Tie Auto Loans to Fuel Efficiency, Expert Will Testify

A UCS expert will testify that any loans congress gives to American automobile manufacturers must come with guarantees of better fuel economy in their products.

Environmentalists Express Concern Over Wind Farms' Impact

The only people who don't like wind farms are the people who don't have one - that was the punch line of a humorous story T. Boone Pickens told the crowd at Revolution: Oklahoma Wind Conference on Tuesday. But on Wednesday, conference attendees heard from a few people who are concerned that the wind industry is growing too fast to fully account for its effect on the environment, the economy and a multitude of secondary issues.

Generating project to tap Mississippi River power

Deep beneath the swirling, shifting surface of the Mississippi River, powerful forces are going to waste.

Hawaii to be 1st state with electric car stations

Hawaii has unveiled plans to be first in the nation to roll out electric car stations statewide — a move the governor hailed as a major step toward weaning the islands off oil.

IBM, Harvard want your PC for solar power study

Harvard scientists are hoping the project will allow it to discover a combination of organic materials that can be used to manufacture plastic solar cells that are cheaper and more flexible than the silicon-based ones typically used to turn sunlight into electricity.

Increased Oversight Of GMO Crops Needed; Government

More oversight and coordination is needed among federal agencies to prevent unapproved releases of genetically modified crops into the environment and food and feed supply, the investigative arm of the U.S. Congress said on Friday.

Industry, Investors Urge Strong U.N. Climate Deal

Major companies, investors and insurers appealed on Monday for decisive action to fight climate change at a meeting in Poland working on a new U.N. pact to fight global warming.

Kashkari on Financial Markets and TARP Update

Today, I will focus my remarks on one of our vital programs, the Capital Purchase Program

Lockheed Martin Breaks Ground On Solar Power Testbed

Lockheed Martin announced that it has broke ground on a solar power testbed to support its entry into the utility-scale renewable power generation market....will provide Lockheed Martin engineers the opportunity to integrate and test a variety of solar technologies and materials selected from multiple suppliers, and to conduct production modeling

Legal Nightmares

Utilities are facing major issues such as raising capital, increasing the use of renewable energy and energy efficiency, and dealing with a changing political environment.

Mandates driving surge to the river for hydropower

Many decades ago, cost-conscious Henry Ford turned to hydroelectric plants to power his car factories like the one by the Great Miami River, near this Cincinnati suburb. That assembly plant is long gone, but the power plant and the technology behind it isn't.
Far from it. The push to get electricity from moving water is only picking up steam.

Oak Ridge National Laboratory Report Details Potential Of Combined Heat & Power

...a new report highlighting Combined Heat and Power (CHP) as a realistic solution to enhance national energy efficiency, ensure environmental quality, promote economic growth, and foster a robust energy infrastructure.

Pickens 'anxious' over wind farm project financing

Texas oil tycoon T. Boone Pickens said on Monday he is "anxious" for his company's multibillion dollar plans to build a giant wind farm in Texas as the economic crisis chokes off project financing.

Proposal Ties Economic Stimulus to Energy Plan

The details and cost of the so-called green-jobs program are still unclear, but a senior Obama aide, speaking on the condition of anonymity to discuss a work in progress, said it would probably include the weatherizing of hundreds of thousands of homes, the installation of “smart meters” to monitor and reduce home energy use, and billions of dollars in grants to state and local governments for mass transit and infrastructure projects.

Pummeled by Wall Street crisis, ethanol producers turn to Washington for help

Their stocks battered, ethanol makers are lobbying Congress and the administration to lift a cap that limits the amount of the corn-based fuel that can be blended with gasoline.

Recycling rate for soda bottles increased for fourth year

The recycling rate for soda bottles and similar containers increased for the fourth year straight, according to the National Association for PET Container Resources and Association of Postconsumer Plastic Recyclers.

Reid; Won't allow DOE chief who supports Yucca

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid said Wednesday he won't allow an Energy secretary through the Senate who supports building a nuclear waste dump at Yucca Mountain.

Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 120708

Observations at the ACE satellite indicate a continued slight influence from the coronal hole high speed stream. Solar wind speeds have ranged from 580 km/s down to 520 km/s during the past 24 hours. The geomagnetic field is expected to be predominately quiet for the forecast period (08-10 December) as the high speed stream subsides.

Russia's Fix

Russia's electric market needs to be repaired. But hard times are getting in the way.

The current financial turmoil has left it in a state of disarray. And if the nation went ahead with plans to ease electricity subsidies and unleash market forces then prices would jump and create even more tumult. The conundrum turns away investors, who won't risk their money if prices are fixed and fair returns are elusiv

Schwarzenegger Tells U.N.; Green Rules Help Markets

Green regulations will help both the environment and ailing economies, California's Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger told a 187-nation U.N. climate conference on Monday.

Scientist Says Ancient Technique Cuts Greenhouse Gas

An ancient technique of plowing charred plants into the ground to revive soil may also trap greenhouse gases for thousands of years and forestall global warming, scientists said on Friday.

Shifts In Soil Bacteria Linked To Wetland Restoration Success

A new study led by Duke University researchers finds that restoring degraded wetlands — especially those that had been converted into farm fields — actually decreases their soil bacterial diversity.

But that's a good thing, say the study's authors, because it marks a return to the wetland soils' natural conditions.

Solar Panel Glut Expected In 2009; Suntech

The solar power sector will produce an over supply of solar panels in 2009, said Zhengrong Shi, chief executive of the world's biggest module manufacturer Suntech.

Solar Energy Poised to Put Americans Back to Work

The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) today outlined the key policies that President-elect Obama and the Congressional leadership must address to expand the use of solar energy and help put over 1 million Americans back to work by 2011.

Test drive; Zap's new electric car

The dealership showcased various models of Zap's new three-wheel electric car, a four-wheel small truck, an electric scooter and even an electric bicycle

The Fairness Issue, How to Cope with the Flood of Foreclosures

Is the cavalry coming to rescue troubled homeowners?

Despite soaring foreclosure rates, President Bush and other Republicans have not made this a top priority, and Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson has refused to draw on the $700 billion rescue fund to help homeowners, saying that saving financial institutions is more important.

U.N. Says Climate Change May Uproot 6 Million Annually

The impact of climate change could uproot around six million people each year, half of them because of weather disasters like floods and storms, a top U.N. official said on Monday.

U.S. Department of Energy Announces up to $29.3 Million in Projects for Research, Development, and Demonstration of Alternative Vehicle Technologies

The U.S. Department of Energy today announced the selection of six cost-shared research projects for the development and demonstration of alternative vehicle technology projects totaling a DOE investment of up to $14.55 million over three years, subject to annual appropriations.

U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions Increased by 1.4 Percent in 2007

Total U.S. greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions were 7,282 million metric tons carbon dioxide equivalent (MMTCO 2e) in 2007, an increase of 1.4 percent from the 2006 level...

Urban Trees Enhance Water Infiltration

Traditional stormwater management focuses on regulating the flow of runoff to waterways, but generally does little to restore the hydrologic cycle disrupted by extensive pavement and compacted urban soils with low permeability. The lack of infiltration opportunities affects groundwater recharge and has negative repercussions on water quality downstream.

US Renewable Energy Production Increases 7.4%

renewable energy accounted for almost 11 percent of the domestically-produced energy used in the United States in the first eight months of 2008.

We need to turn carbon into gold

Little meaningful progress seems to have been made at the UN climate summit in Poznan, Poland, says Oliver Tickell, author of Kyoto2. In this week's Green Room, he calls on world leaders to back a deal that will raise the serious funds needed to deliver a low carbon future.

Progress at the UN climate summit in Poznan, Poland, appears to have ground to a halt.

What's Moving the Oil Markets 120908

•Global crude futures on Tuesday were holding on to strong gains seen in late-Monday trading, which was fueled by the US automobile bailout news and rallying equity markets. Losses in the US dollar also underpinned the $2/barrel-plus settle for both ICE Brent and NYMEX crude futures contracts.

Will solar power ever be as cheap as coal?

“Solar power is the energy of the future – and always will be.”

That tired joke, which has dogged solar-generated electricity for decades due to its high cost, could be retired far sooner than many think.

Women Demand Bigger Say In U.N. Climate Talks

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) said poor women in developing countries would be affected most by climate change because of its impact on agriculture, food security and water management -- traditionally women's tasks.

It also said they are more likely to be killed in disasters caused by extreme weather -- girls in some cultures do not learn how to swim or climb trees. Despite this, most of the debate on climate change at U.N. talks has been "gender-blind," it said.

Would burying CO2 help in climate crisis?

Backers say carbon capture and storage could make an important contribution to cutting emissions by mid-century. The idea involves capturing carbon dioxide as power stations spew it out, then pumping it into empty gas and oil wells or aquifers, where it will remain forever.

But, as delegates from some 190 countries meet in Poland to begin thrashing out a new global climate change treaty, environmentalists are divided.

 

December 5, 2008

 

All Uranium Applications Filed

The company filed a radioactive material license application, which covers the mining process, the processing of uranium and safety operating procedures.

It also applied for a permit by rule, which covers facilities with near-zero air emissions.

Americans Positive about Personal Financial Future, Unsure about National Economic Outlook

Americans are significantly more optimistic about their personal financial future than they are about the economic direction of the country

Appeals court remands energy crisis contract case to US FERC

...to reconsider its refusal to alter or do away with hundreds of millions of dollars worth of long-term power contracts during the 2000-2001 western energy crisis.

Arctic Tundra Emits Methane Even In Winter

The arctic tundra emits the same amount of methane in winter as in the warmer months, a surprising finding that bolsters understanding of how greenhouse gases interact with nature, researchers said on Wednesday.

Billings, Mont., to make $20 million from landfill gas

The city of Billings stands to make at least $20 million over 40 years after signing a deal with Montana-Dakota Utilities to sell methane from the city landfill. With the deal, the city turns a liability into an asset.

Canada unlikely to join the 'global' carbon marketplace in the next 10 years

Achieving climate change ambitions is more likely if regulatory consistency can be established across major polluting nations on a global scale. However, the proposed Canadian federal emissions trading framework could undermine such efforts by failing to open to the wider carbon marketplace.

Catching Rays

Until now, to equip your home or business with solar power you had to come up with a lot of scratch up front. Unfortunately, that often left access to the technology to the financially well off, to the curious or to highly motivated tree huggers.

Coal Addiction Tests Poland On U.N. Climate Goals

Poland's addiction to high-polluting coal contrasts sharply with its hosting of U.N. talks on a global climate treaty to promote clean energy, but its government says it is doing its best to break the habit.

Credit Capacity is Top Financial Concern of Energy CFOs

According to a new study by BDO Seidman, LLP, 57 percent of chief financial officers (CFOs) at U.S. oil and gas exploration and production companies say that “credit capacity restraints, including access to capital” will be their greatest financial challenge in 2009, followed by “falling oil or natural gas prices” (21%).

Environmental Groups Bash 'Clean Coal' in New Campaign

The phrase "clean coal" was repeated by virtually every major presidential candidate this year. Now the battle over what it means is heating up.

Environmental Protection Agency Warned to Address Ocean Acidification or Face Lawsuit

The oceans cover about 70 percent of the Earth’s surface and absorb about 22 million tons of carbon dioxide each day. The absorption of carbon dioxide is changing seawater chemistry, causing it to become more acidic. This process, known as ocean acidification, impairs the ability of marine animals to build the protective shells and skeletons they need to survive.

Forest hotspots pinpointed for climate, animals

A U.N. atlas pinpointed on Friday parts of forests from the Amazon to Madagascar where better protection could give the twin benefits of slowing global warming and preserving rare wildlife.

Genetically Modified Crops are 9 Percent of Primary Global Crop Production

Although GM crops have been on the market for a decade, they currently account for a modest 9 percent of total land used for global primary crops.

GREENHOUSE GAS ACCUMULATIONS CHANGE THE WEATHER

Globally, heat waves during the last decade have killed more persons than tornados, hurricanes, and lightning combined.

Inbox 120308

The issue of bailing out the Detroit automakers is front and center. And a good case can be made that environmental issues play a significant role in the matter.

Iran Proposes Joint Nuclear Power Plants With Arab Neighbors

Iran is proposing to develop nuclear power plants in co-operation with neighboring Arab countries in the Persian Gulf region, in the midst of increasing international pressure to halt its nuclear program.

Long-term US Mortgage Rates Plummet

Freddie Mac (NYSE:FRE) yesterday released the results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey (PMMS) in which the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) averaged 5.53 percent with an average 0.7 point for the week ending December 3, 2008, downfrom last week when it averaged 5.97 percent.  Last year at this time, the 30-year FRM averaged 5.96 percent.  The 30-year FRM has not been lower since January 24, 2008, when it was 5.48 percent.

Membrane Technology Provides Solutions For The Imminent Water Crisis In South Africa

The demand for membranes in South Africa is set to increase as effluent discharge policies are enforced more stringently and water supply pressures become more apparent.

Micro Fuel Cells remain promising

Over the past several years micro fuel cells have come under criticism for failing to deliver on their promise as a viable source of energy for products such as mobiles phones, notebook computers and other devices.

More Regulation for Banks

The financial crisis, collapse, and “bail out” of huge financial institutions have jaded public attitudes to the banking sector.

Nevada to file 250 contentions opposing Yucca Mt. licensing

The state of Nevada plans to file 250 contentions opposing the licensing of a nuclear waste repository at Yucca Mountain, an attorney for the state said December 4.

New insights on fusion power

Research carried out at MIT's Alcator C-Mod fusion reactor may have brought the promise of fusion as a future power source a bit closer to reality, though scientists caution that a practical fusion powerplant is still decades away.

New Lithium-Ion Battery Recharges To 90% Capacity In 5 Minutes

Toshiba has developed a new lithium-ion battery called SCiB (or Super Charge Ion Battery) which can charge to 90% capacity in 5 minutes. The life cycle of the new battery is more than 10 years even if it is rapidly charged and discharged many times. The battery is also mucher safer than other types of lithium ion batteries, which are potential fire hazards.

Obama Climate Goals Not Enough; China, India

Developing nations welcomed Obama's plan for tougher goals than President George W. Bush but said Obama's target of cutting U.S. greenhouse gas emissions back to 1990 levels by 2020 was not enough to avoid dangerous global warming.

Ontario's Choice

Ontario's strategy is premised on making significant investments in clean energy ventures that lead to job creation. The government there has pledged millions to several local "green" programs while one of its business development bureaus has promised hundreds of millions to clean tech enterprises that can demonstrate that their projects will contribute to economic expansion.

Passioned hobbyists push for an electric car revival

Charlton Jones is hopeful and skeptical that beleaguered General Motors Corp. can deliver its plug-in electric hybrid, the Volt, in 2010.

Piebalgs optimistic ahead of key EU climate package votes

European Energy Commissioner Andris Piebalgs is optimistic that the European Commission's proposals to cut EU carbon emissions by 20% by 2020, boost renewable energy by 20% by 2020 and cut overall energy consumption by 20% by the same date will be formally endorsed by member states in the coming days.

Quote of the Day 120508

"While global crude oil prices have fallen back to 2005 levels, oil product prices have not been adjusted lower in keeping with falling crude, so independent refineries in Shandong are enjoying a considerable refining margin."
A market source said as independent refineries in east China's Shandong province have boosted run rates from 20-30% in October to the current 50%, on the back of returning positive refining margins.

Reid Sees Giant Leaps for Green Energy

"We need to move to renewable energy big time," Reid said while pledging to continue leadership on what has become a signature issue of his Senate career.

Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 120408

No flares occurred during the past 24 hours and the solar disk continues to be spotless.The geomagnetic field was quiet to unsettled during the past 24 hours. Solar wind data indicated the continuation of a high speed solar wind stream with peak velocities around 500 km/s.

Samsung among top patent holders in solar

Canon, TSMC and Samsung are among the largest patent holders in solar photovoltaic panels, although they have no products in the field today. By contrast, many of the world's biggest producers of solar panels hold relatively few patents on the technology.

Senator Bingaman Addresses Energy Summit in New Mexico

I had no idea how many different organizations there were in the United States interested in advising the new Obama Administration. It seems there must be thousands of pages in reports awaiting President-elect Obama and his cabinet on January 20, 2009 that will "give him the answer" on how to solve the economy, improve healthcare and education, address the next steps for the war on terror, and yes, move America towards "energy independence."

Solar-Powered Car Completes Round-The-World Trip

A Swiss teacher completed the first round-the-world trip in a solar-powered car on Thursday and said he hoped the 52,000-km (32,000-mile) odyssey would inspire carmakers to make greener models.

State seeks new coal-waste plan; With 1,000 jobs at stake, EPA offers aid

In April, the state rejected a mining company's plan to build a lagoon to hold nearly 2 billion gallons of liquid coal waste.

The company appealed the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency's ruling and warned that 1,000 jobs are at risk without the permit.

That got the state's attention.

U.S. EPA, Army issue new guidelines to protect water

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Army are issuing revised guidance to ensure better protection of America´s wetlands, streams and other waters under the Clean Water Act.

U.S. polluters to pay record $11.8 billion in 2008; EPA

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency enforcement actions during the 2008 budget year resulted in a record $11.8 billion in pollution controls and projects to clean up the environment, the agency said on Thursday.

U.S. Stimulates Global Market For Methane Recovery And Use As Fuel

Current U.S. supported M2M projects, when fully implemented, will deliver estimated annual emissions reductions of more than 24 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions, tripling the reductions achieved in 2006.

US Renewable Energy Demand Increases 7.4%

According to the latest "Monthly Energy Review" issued by the U.S. Energy Information Administration on November 24, 2008, renewable energy accounted for almost 11 percent of the domestically-produced energy used in the United States in the first eight months of 2008.

Using old tires as fuel doesn´t impact emissions

New research shows that using old tires as fuel in cement kilns does not adversely impact the air emissions profile at such facilities, according to the Portland Cement Association.

What's Moving the Oil Markets 120508

•Global oil supply continues to remain a contentious issue, following the heavy selling that has been observed the course of the week. "Given the rate at which we are selling off at, we shudder to think where crude oil prices will be when the boys from OPEC get together in twelve days time -- an eternity in our view," energy analyst Edward Meir said.

•Other participants have played down the role of OPEC in shoring up the price of oil. "The OPEC meeting is irrelevant. OPEC can't do anything about demand by adjusting the supply" a broker said.

White House, EPA approve changes to mining buffer zone rule

The White House and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency signed off Tuesday on plans to revoke parts of a key water quality rule that could have been used to limit the burial of streams by mountaintop removal coal mining operations.

Wind turbines allow homeowners to cut costs

His 10-kilowatt Bergey Windpower rig is hardly a wanton spree, however. While it cost him $25,000, after state incentives, it has nearly wiped out electric bills that used to average $120 to $140 a month.

 

December 2, 2008

 

30-Year Fixed-Rate US Mortgage Rate at Seven Week Low

Freddie Mac (NYSE:FRE) last week released the results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey (PMMS) in which the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) averaged 5.97 percent with an average 0.7 point for the week ending November 26, 2008, downfrom last week when it averaged 6.04 percent.  Last year at this time, the 30-year FRM averaged 6.10 percent.  The 30-year FRM has not been this low since October 9, 2008, when it was 5.94 percent.

A Stimulus Package for Renewable Energy Would Benefit Economy and Climate, Says German Study

The solution to the world's two biggest crisis -- the economic and the global warming crisis -- is exactly the same: a huge government investment plan in renewable energy will not only help kick start economies, but it will also help fight global warming, according to a report by Deutsche Bank.

Algeria's Khelil says would welcome Russian membership of OPEC

OPEC's President Chakib Khelil said Tuesday he saw no reason why Russia
could not become a full member of the oil exporters' group, adding that Russia
has "a lot to lose" if oil prices continue to fall.

Beaver aims to be 'renewable capital of Utah'

A steady stream of semis hitched to oversized flatbed trailers are rolling through Beaver and Milford these days, hauling 80-foot-long blades to a project site where, once attached to turbine towers, they'll spin like giant pinwheels above the desert floor.

Biofuels run into trouble

Despite a promising start, the U.S. experiment with renewable fuels is facing a serious challenge next year. Falling gasoline consumption, lower pump prices and contradictions within the federal government program are intensifying existing pressures on ethanol distillers and farmers already struggling to cope with over-capacity and collapsing margins.

BPU faces heavy fines for pollution

The Environmental Protection Agency is alleging that BPU failed to install pollution controls on one of its coal-fired power plants since at least 1994 and on a second plant since 2001.

That has resulted in "significant quantities" of pollutants being released into the environment...

Carbon regulation could 'cripple' Texas; Perry

Perry urged the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) "to suppress the urge" to regulate greenhouse gas emissions, citing the "devastating implications for Texas' economy and energy industry."

Cave bears killed by Ice Age, not hunters

Giant cave bears froze to death during the last Ice Age in Europe about 28,000 years ago, according to a study on Wednesday that cleared human hunters of driving them to extinction thousands of years

CERAWeek 2009

What will the global economic crisis mean for the energy future? How will the industry respond to the new risks and opportunities? What are the implications of the new US administration for the energy industry?

China, Japan to Cooperate More in Energy Conservation

China and Japan are getting closer in cooperation in energy conservation and sustainable development by signing a number of new contracts using Japan's technologies to cut China's energy consumption.

China's demand for power likely to drop 7% in Nov on-year

China's demand for power is likely to decrease by 7 per cent or more in a year-on-year basis in November as predicted by some industry insiders...

Climate change remains a top priority

Skeptics believed that the fiscal crisis would force Obama to put his plans to address global warming on the back burner. But in a videotaped speech to a climate summit co-hosted by California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger this month, Obama said, "Now is the time to confront this challenge once and for all. Delay is no longer an option."

Climate change survey gives mandate for action

World governments have the backing of the majority of their citizens to take action on climate change, according to a global survey published today.

Climate Fight Costs May Be Three Times More

The cost of efforts to avoid dangerous global warming may be 170 percent higher than 2007 estimates, a report for the UN's climate agency said on Thursday.

Coalition´s petition urges upgrades on radioactive waste

A coalition of national and grassroots environmental organizations and nuclear energy critics has filed a petition with the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission urging safety and security upgrades on high-level radioactive waste containers.

Decentralized Generation and Power Transmission

Despite claims that the North American grid is rugged and robust, many sections of that grid are old and need to be replaced. That upgrading coincides with a steadily increasing demand for electricity.

Buildings with off-grid decentralized power generation and energy storage capability may be independent of any outside power line while serving the needs of building owners and their tenants.

Denmark gets 20 percent of its electricity from the wind, Minnesota only two percent

Wind power produces nearly 20 percent of the electricity in Denmark, as compared to roughly two percent in Minnesota.

Energy Risk - Generation Trends

Unrelenting growth in power consumption, a switch for cleaner energy sources, pollution control efforts and pent-up demand for new generation sources have all combined to create a boom in power plant building in recent years.

ERCOT is 100 percent over budget on revamp of Texas electric grid

The operator of the state's largest electricity grid said it is more than 100 percent over budget and two years behind schedule on its ongoing program to modernize the transmission system.

EU 'Very Close' To Climate Package Deal - Poland

The European Union is "very close" to a deal on a new climate package meant to be agreed at a summit next week, Poland's Prime Minster Donald Tusk said on Monday.

EU, Egypt to sign energy cooperation accord

The accord covers energy market reforms and the "convergence of Egypt's energy market with that of the EU," as well as the promotion of renewable energy, energy efficiency and the development of energy network infrastructure

FACTBOX - Greenhouse Gas Curbs, From US To China

The following factbox compares international and national goals for fighting climate change ahead of a UN meeting in Poznan, Poland from Dec. 1-12.

FACTBOX - UN Panel's Findings On Climate Change

"Warming of the climate system is unequivocal

"Most of the observed increase in globally averaged temperatures since the mid-20th century is very likely due to the observed increase in ... greenhouse gas concentrations" from human activities.

Flagstaff, Ariz., officials cool to warming strategies

If Flagstaff wants to get serious about reducing greenhouse gas emissions citywide in line with a 2006 pledge, it should tax carbon and trash, said post-doctoral NAU researcher Matthew Hurteau.

Florida may build over 15,000 MW of renewables by 2020

...under the scenario most favorable to renewables, up to 15,467 MW of renewable generation capacity could be installed in the state between 2010 and 2020.

Forests Under Threat From Climate Change

Forests are extremely vulnerable to climate change that is set to bring more wildfires and floods and quick action is needed to aid millions of poor people who depend on forests, a study said on Thursday.

France Raises Solar Feed-in Tariffs; New York SEIA Calls for FITs

The French Minister for Energy and the Environment announced last Monday that the government was launching an aggressive new program to propel the country to the forefront of solar energy development.

Gold looks set to take direction from oil, price falls likely

With Iran and Venezuela reportedly failing to tow the line on production cut levels, international oil producer organisation OPEC is struggling to maintain decorum among its members, creating difficulties for the group as it tries to decide on a production cut benchmark to bolster oil's crumbling price, reports suggested Monday.

Governors Fume Over Bush's Last Minute Air Pollution Rule

A bipartisan group of six Northeastern governors is urging the Bush administration to abandon a plan that would relax pollution control requirements on power plants, saying the proposed rule would increase air pollution and threaten public health.

Green jobs can help cope with financial meltdown

In these days of financial meltdown, green jobs, as they are labelled, ensure both job security and energy security. They are the portals to the new nature-dependent, climate-sustaining and pro-nature economic order.

Greenhouse Gases Hit Record Levels Last Year

Gases blamed for global warming reached record levels in the atmosphere last year, the United Nations weather agency said on Tuesday.

Honey bee crisis threatens English fruit farmers

Where in the United States, fruit farmers pay to have bees trucked thousands of miles to pollinate their crops and in parts of China, humans with feather dusters have taken on the task, in Britain most bees go nature's way.

Huge Iowa Windfarm Will Supply Power to N.C.

Six rural coops are jointly subsidizing the entire 150 megawatt output to help meet new renewables requirements.

Hydropower generator mimics fish

Inbox 112508

The Mechanics of Recycling: The December issue of Popular Mechanics has an interesting, wide-ranging article analyzing the economics and environmental impact of curbside recycling programs. The overall take-home message is that curbside recycling has been proving its worth, both environmentally (by a clear, wide margin) and economically (by a narrower but steadily growing margin).

Interfaith Leaders Sign Climate Change Manifesto of Hope

Faith leaders concluded their two-day Interfaith Summit on Climate Change in Uppsala on Saturday by signing a manifesto demanding quick and extensive reduction of carbon dioxide emissions in the wealthy parts of the world.

Inventing Our Energy Future

In recent years, billions of people have been rising out of poverty and participating more fully in the global marketplace. This is good news, but it has put the world in a tight spot. Economic prosperity is intimately linked to energy demand, and the elevation of billions of people to middle-class living standards seems destined to outstrip our existing energy infrastructure. To sustain economic progress, we must reinvent the ways in which we produce, distribute and use energy.

Largest Wind Farm in Europe Inaugurated in Portugal

The wind farm is also connected to the national grid and a 240 MW capacity. The wind energy produced in the region is enough to power 300,000 homes.

Leaders meet to discuss reconciliation

Indigenous leaders from North and Central America recently gathered to discuss the significance of governmental apologies involving historical injustices committed upon Natives.

MIT; A quicker, easier way to make coal cleaner

...an MIT analysis suggests an intermediate step that could get construction moving again, allowing the nation to fend off growing electricity shortages using our most-abundant, least-expensive fuel while also reducing emissions.

Mob Attacks Offices Over Brazil Logging Crackdown

A mob of about 3,000 people attacked government offices to protest a crackdown on illegal Amazon logging, the government said on Monday, prompting the environment minister to call for federal troops.

Obama Embraces 'Green Path' in Stimulus Plan to Aid Environment

President-elect Barack Obama is considering a stimulus package that will include a heavy dose of spending on environmentally friendly projects aimed at creating “green-collar jobs” and saving energy.

Obama formally nominates Hillary Clinton for secretary of state

US President-elect Barack Obama named his top national security advisers
Monday -- including former first lady Hillary Clinton as secretary of state --
choosing officials who have voiced strong and controversial opinions on energy
issues such as taxing major oil companies, expanding offshore oil and natural
gas drilling and capping greenhouse gas emissions from refineries, electric
utilities and other industries.

Obama Keeping Quiet on Energy Secretary Pick; Mayor White Mentioned Among Possibilities Coming From a Range of Backgrounds

President-elect Barack Obama is weighing prospects for energy secretary with a list in Democratic circles that includes Washington insiders, a governor and at least one break-the-mold executive.

Ocean currents can power the world, say scientists

A revolutionary device that can harness energy from slow-moving rivers and ocean currents could provide enough power for the entire world, scientists claim.

Offshore Toronto Wind Farm Stirs Debate

A public hearing on building a 60-turbine wind farm offshore of Toronto in Lake Ontario drew an overflow and divided crowd of 1,000 people.

OPINION; A Green Deal for Transportation

The more stringent fuel economy standards currently in place in Japan, Europe, and China suggest that Washington should adopt far more ambitious targets—at least 50 mpg by 2020, with continued improvements in later years.

Plutonic Power, GE Submit Bids for More Than $4 Billion in Hydroelectric Projects, Canada's Largest

...in submitting two bids for hydroelectric power projects costing more than $4 billion, which would be Canada's largest single private sector hydroelectric generation investment.

Portugal seeks 15% of energy from wind power in 2010

The General Directorate for Energy and Geology (DGEG) has given assurances that the electricity coming from wind energy currently accounts for nearly 4 per cent of the overall electricity consumption, but this is expected to increase to 15 per cent by 2010.

Producing Cellulosic Ethanol Without Soil Damage

In the Midwest, 100 to 150 millon tons of corn stover -- crop residue -- is now left on fields to prevent erosion and return nutrients to soil. Now corn stover is being eyed as a possible source of cellulose for biofuel production. But the costs and benefits of harvesting stover need to be determined.

Sahel Africans Face Hunger Despite Bumper Harvest

Poor people in Africa's arid Sahel region will go without food despite bumper harvests this year, as wild price moves on world markets put staple cereals beyond many families' budgets, aid agencies say. Prices of imported foods have ballooned in recent years, pushing up prices for locally grown crops even though harvests are expected to be bigger than ever after abundant rains.

Scientists Crack Iceberg Mystery

US scientists have figured out how icebergs break off Antarctica and Greenland, a finding that may help predict rising sea levels as the climate warms.

Sharp, Enel To Invest $1.6 Bln In Solar Venture

Sharp is stepping up investment in an effort to retake market share from No.1 solar cell maker Q-Cells of Germany, whose aggressive capex plans outstrip those of its rivals.

Sierra Club Says Ruling Jeopardizes Coal Plants

Prospects for three billion-dollar, coal-fired power projects in Nevada are dimming because of an appeals decision on a power project in Utah, according to the Sierra Club.

Solar cell efficiency boosted

The solar energy market is in flux. Shortages of polysilicon materials used to make solar cells have eased. As you no doubt noticed the last time you filled your car's gas tank, global energy prices also have dropped dramatically in response to economic turmoil and resulting declines in demand. But one thing has remained constant: Energy researchers are always looking for ways to improve the conversion efficiency rates of solar cells.

Solar Power Costlier for Florida Than Nuclear, Report Finds

In a much anticipated report that could affect every Floridian's pocketbook, a consultant hired by the state says solar power could be a competitive source of electricity by 2020 in many scenarios, but it will cost considerably more than new nuclear power and natural gas

Spot uranium price rises $2/lb on the week to reach $55/lb

The spot price of uranium rose $2 a pound over the past week to $55/lb U3O8, according to the latest reports from TradeTech and Ux Consulting.

Sun rising on California's power horizon

Solar power accounts for less than 1 percent of California's energy resources, but Bay Area residents are buying systems in increasing numbers, which is good news for the environment and the solar industry, advocates say.

THE CIRCULARITY OF LIFE; AN ESSENTIAL SHIFT FOR SUSTAINABILITY

Jane Cull, founder and lead consultant of Life’s Natural Solutions, an educational consultancy in Sydney, Australia, applies the theories of living systems to describe the shift in worldview now taking place that is key to our future survival.

Treasury Provides TARP Funds to Federal Reserve Consumer ABS Lending Facility

The U.S. Treasury Department yesterday announced it will allocate $20 billion to back a lending facility for the consumer asset backed securities market established by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.

Trees To Fight Warming. Insurers Ponder Risks

Paying landowners to let forests grow is promoted by the United Nations as a viable way to fight global warming, but experts first have to puzzle out how to insure trees against going up in smoke.

U.S. regulators need to copy Texas on greenhouse gases, Perry says

Texas Gov. Rick Perry warned on Tuesday that federal regulation of carbon dioxide would harm the Texas and U.S. economies, pushing up energy prices and limiting growth.

U.S. Researchers Closer to Creating New Solar Cells

The solar cells, being developed by researchers at the University of California in Los Angeles (UCLA), have significantly greater sunlight absorption and conversation than previous polymers, the university said in a press release on its website.

UK climate law heralds 'total de-carbonization' of economy

The UK's Climate Change Act, which was written into law late Wednesday,
sets the stage for the total de-carbonization of the UK economy...

UK committee says coal-fired plant should have CCS by 2020

Conventional coal-fired power generation should only be built in the UK on condition that it will be retrofitted with carbon capture and storage equipment by the early 2020s

UK Government; Energy industry set for climate change

A clear indicator from the project was that historical climatology is no longer relevant because of global warming. These long term changes mean that it is likely that energy demands will be affected through the seasons.

US coal output rises 10.7% on year in week ending Nov. 22; EIA

US coal production totalled about 23.4 million short tons in the week that ended November 22, roughly 10.7% above output in the comparable week of last year

US Energy Department touts combined heat, power technology use

Combined heat and power technology is "one of the most promising options
in the US energy efficiency portfolio," the Department of Energy said in a new
report released Monday that calls for increased use of the CHP technology to
increase energy security and decrease emissions.

US Fed Announces Creation of TALF

The Federal Reserve Board on Tuesday announced the creation of the Term Asset-Backed Securities Loan Facility (TALF), a facility that will help market participants meet the credit needs of households and small businesses by supporting the issuance of asset-backed securities (ABS) collateralized by student loans, auto loans, credit card loans, and loans guaranteed by the Small Business Administration (SBA).

US Fed to Purchase Obligations of GSEs

The Federal Reserve announced on Tuesday that it will initiate a program to purchase the direct obligations of housing-related government-sponsored enterprises (GSEs)--Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and the Federal Home Loan Banks--and mortgage-backed securities (MBS) backed by Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and Ginnie Mae.

Vatican Set To Go Green With Huge Solar Panel Roof

The Vatican was set to go green on Wednesday with the activation of a new solar energy system to power several key buildings and a commitment to use renewable energy for 20 percent of its needs by 2020.

Venice Flooded As Sea Levels Hit Highest In 22 Yrs

Large parts of Venice were flooded on Monday as heavy rains and strong winds lashed the lagoon city, with sea levels at their highest level in 22 years.

Western Governors Ask Obama for National Green Energy Plan

In a letter to President-elect Barack Obama, the Western governors are urging swift action in adopting and implementing a national energy plan that would transform the country's energy infrastructure and economy while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

What's Moving the Oil Markets 120208

•Global crude futures recovered from earlier losses that saw ICE Brent trade at a 45-month low Tuesday. At 0753 GMT front-month ICE Brent traded at an intra-day low of $46.02/barrel, its lowest level since February 18, 2005.

•OPEC's failure to reach a production decision over the weekend remains a contentious issue.

Will we have solar pavements within five years?

And solar windows, rooftops, mobile phones, laptops, paint, cars and clothing, according to IBM.

Wind power becoming increasingly prevalent in Japan

Japan's utilities are increasing the amount of wind-generated power they purchase in response to a government policy aimed at promoting the use of alternative energy sources, a trend that could spark investment in this field.

Wind Project Hits a Hurdle in Scotland; The Push for More Renewable Energy Can Clash With Concerns for the Land

On the Isle of Lewis, a blustery wedge of highland and bog at the northern tip of the Outer Scottish Hebrides, a battle over a planned wind farm holds lessons for investors and industrialists seeking to meet alternative energy targets for Europe.

Youth Embarassed By U.S. Delegation at Climate Conference

The U.S. climate delegation's "sidestepping and recalcitrance" in a news conference on the opening morning of the United Nations annual climate conference in Poznan was denounced by the international climate campaign 350.org and a group of young people from the United States who are attending the meetings.

 

November 21, 2008

 

Acidic seas threaten coral and mussels

Rising carbon dioxide levels are increasing acidity in the oceans 10 times faster than scientists thought, posing a greater threat to shell-forming creatures such as coral and mussels.

Aqua America; Water Provider or Profiteer?

Kids in Chuluota, Florida are getting sick from drinking local water. People in certain parts of Fort Wayne, Indiana and Cambridge, New York are experiencing, or expect to face, egregious water rate hikes. What do these communities have in common? Their water is serviced subsidiaries of the private water company Aqua America.

Arizona faces huge money gap preparing infrastructure for 10 million

The state and local governments must address a projected gap of $288 billion to develop transportation and water systems, education and other critical infrastructure needed to support the 10 million people expected to call Arizona home by 2030

Clean Energy Confronts Messy Reality

"Funding has stalled," says Ezra Green, chief executive of Clear Skies Solar Inc. The New York company recently canceled plans to build a one-megawatt solar plant in California's Mojave Desert, unable to get financing even though a California utility agreed to buy all the output.

Climate panel to continue into Congress' next session; Pelosi

"I think we do have a need for one more term, because our work is not finished," Pelosi said Friday at her weekly press conference. "We do not have the climate change legislation that I had hoped we might be closer to, at least at this point."

Congress has fast-track power to kill Bush rules

President-elect Barack Obama will have limited authority to overturn federal regulations approved in the waning months of the Bush administration. But a little-used power offers the new Democratic Congress an early test of how aggressively lawmakers might unravel such rules pushed through by Republicans.

Credit Crisis Threatens Europe Energy Supply

European utilities must keep up investments in power and gas infrastructure throughout the credit crisis to ensure energy supplies when the economy recovers, consultants Capgemini said in a report.

Demise of Yucca Project Predicted

President-elect Barack Obama and Sen. Harry Reid have had several discussions about the Yucca Mountain Project since the election, with Reid saying this week the nuclear waste burial plan will "bleed real hard" before being halted.

Despite Uncertainty, New Power Plant Construction and Environmental Installations Move Forward

To the surprise of just about everyone in the U.S. electric utility business, in July 2008, a Federal court struck down the Clean Air Interstate Rule (CAIR), which would enact tighter restrictions on sulfur and nitrogen emissions from power plants

Food; The Extreme Perils of 'Efficiency'

This spring, disaster loomed in the global food market. Precipitous increases in the prices of staples like rice (up more than a hundred and fifty per cent in a few months) and maize provoked food riots, toppled governments, and threatened the lives of tens of millions. But the bursting of the commodity bubble eased those pressures, and food prices, while still high, have come well off the astronomical levels they hit in April.

Front-month NYMEX crude falls over $3 to $51.06 barrel

Front-month NYMEX light sweet crude fell over $3/barrel Tuesday, reacting to a temporarily stronger US dollar and paring some of the gains made on Monday.

Global crisis impact on China more severe than anticipated

The impact of the global financial crisis on the Chinese economy has been more severe than earlier anticipated and this has drastically reduced the demand for Chinese exports..

Global Warming Could Lead To More Arctic Energy

The rapid recession of sea ice, snow cover and permafrost were helping to accelerate global warming and the loss from the Greenland ice sheet would bring a swift rise in sea levels, it said in a paper.

Government Warns Of 'Catastrophic' US Quake

People in a vast seismic zone in the southern and midwestern United States would face catastrophic damage if a major earthquake struck there and should ensure that builders keep that risk in mind, a government report said on Thursday.

Green Efforts Embrace Poor

Low-income people who live in old or flimsy housing are becoming prime targets for cities and groups intent on slashing energy use.

Green Groups Issue Recommendations to President-Elect

A broad coalition of organizations working on federal climate and energy policy issued the following recommendations today to President-elect Barack Obama and his transition team:

Green Mountain Power Converts Hybrids to Plug-In Technology

Demonstrating a new way to power cars with solar energy, Green Mountain Power has converted two of its Toyota Prius fleet vehicles into plug-in hybrids (PHEV's).

Greenpeace Blockades Ageing Spanish Nuclear Plant

Greenpeace blocked the entrance on Thursday to a Spanish nuclear power station facing closure next year and urged the government to shut it down immediately in line with election pledges to phase out nuclear power.

Groundbreaking PBS series nears completion

After almost five years of planning and production, a groundbreaking television series depicting more than 350 years of history from an American Indian perspective is scheduled to premiere next spring.

How to Read Your Water Quality Report

The Safe Drinking Water Act amendments of 1996 provide for an annual water quality report. Although these reports are intended to help consumers make informed choices about their drinking water, they can be confusing and full of jargon. This guide is intended to help you understand what your water quality report is and how to interpret what it tells you.

How Trade Policy Undermined Africa’s Food Self-Sufficiency

The 2008 global food crisis is compromising the survival of 860 million undernourished people and threatens to push a hundred million people into extreme poverty, erasing all of the gains made in eradicating poverty in the last decade. Record high prices have put food out of reach for the poorest people in the developing world, many of whom already spend more than half their income on food.

Huge Glaciers Detected Under Rocky Debris On Mars

The glaciers, perhaps 200 million years old, also may entomb genetic fragments of past microbial life on Mars as well as air bubbles that might reveal the composition of the atmosphere as it was long ago..

Institute says glass recycling increased to 28.1% in 2007

The glass recycling rate increased to 28.1% in 2007, the first significant increase since around 2000, according to the Glass Packaging Institute.

Last chance to have your say on TEP's proposed rate increase

The Arizona Corporation Commission will hold an open meeting to discuss and vote on a Tucson Electric Power Co. rate increase at 10 a.m. tomorrow at 400 W. Congress, Room 222.

Local fight against global warming; Activitists push for 'Cool Cities

They came with the goal of saving the planet and left Saturday with a handy tool kit of ideas that began with how to approach City Hall. About 40 foot soldiers in the battle against global warming got their marching orders at a workshop in Mountain View offered by the Sierra Club and two other environmental organizations

Los Angeles boasts world's largest solar energy plan

Los Angeles mayor Antonio Villaraigosa Monday unveiled an ambitious plan that calls for installing solar panels on residents' rooftops to meet 10 percent of the city's energy needs by the year 2020.

New Era, New Rules

There is a growing consensus that keeping the lights on, developing renewable energy to the maximum of its potential, developing new nuclear generation and clean coal technology, and creating a grid to stitch it all together, will take an unprecedented level of spending.

Sitting in judgment of many of these investments will be state utility regulators.

New Study Predicts Corporate Loan Market is the Next Subprime

In evaluating 1,054 loan-seeking corporations, NYU Stern Visiting Professor of Finance Anurag Gupta reveals that borrowing firms whose loans are sold by banks in the secondary loan market underperform other corporate bank borrowers by between 8% and 14% per year (on a risk-adjusted basis) in the three years after the loan sale.

Nuke plant raiders may have had inside aid

The unidentified gunmen who attempted to steal bomb-grade uranium from a South African nuclear plant may have had inside help, a worker's account indicates.

Obama's Coal Stance

President-elect Barack Obama can't win. Coal associations are skeptical of his energy plans because he is pushing carbon cuts before the technologies to fully achieve such aims have matured. Environmentalists are also cautious and contend that his advocacy of "clean coal" does not make sense.

OPEC source sees need for new 1 mil b/d cut at Dec 17 meeting

OPEC needs to cut its crude production by a further 1 million b/d at its December 17 meeting in Oran, western Algeria, an OPEC source said Monday.

Poll; World wants green action, despite costs

Sixty-nine percent of those polled in 21 countries say utility firms should be obliged to use more renewable resources, even if this would increase their monthly bills.

Proposal may cut pollution by coal-run plants; Environmental panel weighs modifying exemption from N.C.'s emission standards

Duke Energy might have to curb toxic emissions from four of its coal-fired power plants under rule changes a state environmental panel is considering.

Regulators propose adding pharmaceutical waste to rule

Federal environmental regulators have proposed adding hazardous pharmaceutical waste to the Universal Waste Rule to provide a streamlined system for disposing of the material and to protect public health and the environment.

Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 112408

The geomagnetic field is expected to be unsettled to occasionally active as a recurrent coronal hole high speed stream becomes geoeffecttive. There is a slight chance for isolated minor storm activity at high latitudes.

San Francisco Plans To Be Electric Car Capital

San Francisco Bay Area cities promised to build the electric car capital of the United States, announcing a plan Thursday to work with start-up Better Place to put battery-powered autos on the road in 2012.

Sen. chairwoman to make global warming issue a priority

Senate Environment Committee Chairwoman Barbara Boxer, D-Calif., plans to make global warming legislation a priority next year, with the first hearing likely occurring in January.

The hearing will address how global warming legislation can benefit the economy and create jobs,..

Soaking Up the Sun; Tax Breaks Propel Area Solar Firms, But U.S. Still Lags

You can see federal energy tax policy in action, rising out of the ground on the mesa south of Albuquerque as workers rush to finish the new Schott Solar factory. If all goes according to schedule, some 350 workers will begin turning out power systems next spring that generate electricity from the sun.

Surprise Drop in Power Use Worries Utilities

An unexpected drop in U.S. electricity consumption has utility companies worried that the trend isn't a byproduct of the economic downturn and could reflect a permanent shift in consumption that will require sweeping change in their industry.

The Financial Meltdown and Our Energy Future

One year ago, Energy Central called on one of the world's leading researchers looking into the promise of clean coal, Howard J. Herzog, at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. "The way we burn coal today is not compatible with a carbon-constrained world, and we need new technologies to burn coal cleaner in the future," he said. "We're falling far short of the level of investments we need to do today in order for coal to play a major role."

Tibetan glaciers rapidly melting

Glaciers high in the Himalayas are dwindling faster than anyone thought, putting nearly a billion people living in South Asia in peril of losing their water supply.

Toxic contamination starts at home; Study

When women from 120 middle-class homes learned their bodies contained low levels of toxic chemicals, most of them blamed chemical spills, waste dumping or secret military experiments.

They were stunned to learn the truth was closer to home. Most of their exposure came from harmless-looking plastics, flame-retardant clothing, beauty products and household cleaners.

Waste Connections says recycling markets are drying up

"The precipitous drop in recycled commodity values over the past few weeks is unprecedented," CEO Ronald J. Mittelstaedt said Nov. 24. "Many of these commodities generated on the West Coast are shipped to Asia, where demand has dried up.

Waste-to-energy plant officially off the table

As quickly as the promises of a waste-to-energy plant came this spring, the proposal to use technology to solve the county's trash problems died this week.

Waxman Win Elevates Energy, Climate Change Issues

US Rep. Henry Waxman, a California liberal, won the chairmanship of a key congressional energy committee on Thursday and promised to work closely with President-elect Barack Obama to promote alternative energy, ease global warming and expand healthcare.

Western guvs talk energy, climate with Obama team

In a meeting with John Podesta, co-chairman of President-elect Barack Obama's transition team, the two governors told how Washington can help update the systems that deliver energy to Americans while reducing the pollution blamed for global climate change and greening the economy with clean-energy jobs.

Wind Turbines to Help Rural Townships; Three Wyoming County Municipalities to Reap Dividends

The rural townships will experience a distinct financial boost for perhaps the next 25 years, which is the usual lifespan of a turbine. The townships have already received $2,500 per turbine in permitting fees. For Noxen, that $87,500 equaled nearly half of the township's annual budget, said township Supervisor Carl Shook.

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