News 2009:

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World CO2 since 1750 (cubic feet)

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January 30, 2009

35 house members form energy, environment coalition

Thirty-five members of the House have formed the Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition, a caucus that will promote clean energy technology innovation, development of renewable energy and the creation of jobs.

280,000 New U.S. Jobs Tied Directly to Smart Grid Deployment

As some of the highest first time unemployment claims in U.S. history were released this week, the Smart Grid Jobs Report, released by the GridWise Alliance could offer at least some light at the end of the tunnel. The report says that an estimated 280,000 new jobs can be created directly from the deployment of smart grid technologies.

ACORE calls for action in US renewables industry

The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) calls for a national response to President Barack Obama’s commitment to Double Renewable Energy in America (“DREAM”).

Appropriations committee directs $2.8 billion to tribal economic recovery

“Nowhere in this nation are jobs and construction improvements more needed than on American Indian reservations,” Dorgan, chairman of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee and member of the appropriations committee that approved the legislation, said. “Tribal communities suffer 50 percent unemployment rates and longstanding construction needs.”

Beyond Rebates; State Solar Market Transitions

The solar industry is going through a rocky period of change due to the economic crisis. This restructuring is most evident in cash-strapped states, where legislators and regulators are exploring how to move beyond solar programs that rely on traditional rebates funded by tax payers.

California Green Tech Investment, Patents, Jobs Jump

New statistics to be released today in the 2009 "California Green Innovation Index" document the powerful economic stimulus provided by energy efficiency and green technology in California, despite the worldwide financial crisi

Cleansing the Corporate Spirit

Recessions are part of the laws of economics. But unethical conduct can stem from poor leadership. While today's economic woes were caused by a multitude of factors, a major catalyst has undoubtedly been poor decision making at the regulatory and corporate levels, and in some cases outright dishonesty. Financial markets have been rattled, which in turn has cut off funds to borrowers and sent equity values south.

Corn Ethanol Production Emits 51% Less Greenhouse Gas Than Gasoline

Corn ethanol directly emits an average of 51 percent less greenhouse gas than gasoline per gallon produced. This is result of a recent study conducted by researchers at University of Nebraska-Lincoln. According to the research, recent improvements in efficiency throughout the ethanol production process account for the difference.

Dave Ramsey's Thoughts on Obama's Plans

Well, we the people have a new president. It’s an exciting time for Americans, whether or not you agree with President Barack Obama’s plans. My hope is that our new president will instill some confidence in people, not necessarily set out to fix everybody and everything.

There are some bogus government strategies floating around to stimulate the economy and "save us from ourselves." Just because they’re all everyone talks about doesn’t make them true! Here are a few of the big issues

Fannie Mae IT contractor indicted for planting malware; Mortgage giant didn’t revoke server privileges

A former Fannie Mae IT contractor has been indicted for planting a virus that would have nuked the mortgage agency’s computers, caused millions of dollars in damages and even shut down operations. How’d this happen? The contractor was terminated, but his server privileges were not.

Financial Recovery

The uncertainty has bred uncertainty. But the new administration hopes to encourage development in infrastructure and clean technologies through a mix of tax cuts and federal subsidies. The idea is that the green revolution will take hold and return the nation to the era of prosperity. Utilities will play a key role.

Five North American electric utilities to be used in study

Five North American electric utilities will offer up their power plants to study the impact of retrofitting existing coal-fired units with carbon capture technology.

Geothermal Market Update; Steady Growth in 2009

The geothermal power development sector is waiting to hear an industry-specific investment allocation under President Obama's plan to increase renewable energy, but at least one recent assessment, attributed to an Obama aide, has already indicated that geothermal and solar together could be funded to add 4,000 megawatts (MW) of new energy capacity, the Geothermal Energy Association, in Washington, recently reported.

Gore Urges Congress to Confront Climate Emergency

Former Vice President Al Gore today warned U.S. lawmakers that humanity faces "a planetary emergency" from climate change and repeated his call for binding limits on greenhouse gas emissions. "We have arrived at a moment of decision," said Gore...

How Green Is My Wallet? Organic Food Growth Slows

As recession drives consumers to cut costs, their commitment to organic food has been tested with sales growth slowing -- but so far, sales are not falling. How green are our wallets?

Human Banner Formed to Defend Amazon Rainforest

Indigenous people from across Latin America led more than 1,000 World Social Forum participants to form a human banner Tuesday, using their bodies to dramatize the increasingly precarious situation of the Amazon rainforest, recognized as a key to climate stability.

Inbox 012909

Now the Barack Obama presidency begins, and with it his plans for the environment start to take clearer form. Time will tell how much reality will alter intentions.

Liquid Plumber

Impact of Loose Monetary Policy

According to Professor Taylor, monetary excesses were the main cause of the US housing boom and bust.  This can be seen if one compares:

1) The actual path for the Fed Funds rate, from 2001 – 2006; with

2) An alternative path for Fed Funds that would have been consistent with prior Fed policies that produced good US economic performance.

Mexico City Has a Plan for Going Green

Mexico City wants to turn one of the planets biggest and messiest waste management systems into the greenest in Latin America, if not the developing world.

New Energy Finance Sees 2009 as Year of Consolidation for Clean Energy

What is clear is that if anyone thinks the correct strategy for 2009 is to hold tight and wait, that a few billion dollars of taxpayers' money and an easing of the credit markets will bring a return to business as usual, they are in for a rude awakening.

New law surprises local businesses

There's a new law taking affect on Feb. 10 that many local retailers, as well as those across the country, know nothing about....The law specifies that after Feb. 10, "it shall be unlawful for any person to manufacture for sale, distribute in commerce, or import any children's toy or child care article that contains the phthalates DEHP, DBP, BBP, DINP, DIDP, DNOP in levels higher than .1 percent."

New wind projects in Ontario good news for the province's economy, environment and electricity future

The Canadian Wind Energy Association (CanWEA) welcomed today's announcement of long-term contracts for six new wind energy projects in Ontario totaling 492 MW by Ontario's Minister of Energy and Infrastructure the Hon. George Smitherman.

New York aims for 45% renewables by 2015

“It is time to control the cost of energy and how much we use. It is time to make New York more energy independent and more energy efficient, to develop our own sources of clean and renewable energy, and build new state-wide systems for energy generation, transmission and distribution,” Paterson said.

Now Is the Time

It is breathtaking how easily many now say, "This is the worst economic crisis since the Depression." The Depression remade America. It spawned the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935, transforming the business landscape occupied by electric and natural gas utilities. It led to the construction of towering federal hydroelectric dams in the West, and brought electrification to the poorest hollows of Appalachia.

NREL and SkyFuel Collaborate on Concentrating Solar Technology

It looks like a giant funhouse mirror. But the big new dish atop South Table Mountain could be a renewable energy breakthrough that helps make concentrated solar power more affordable and appealing to utilities and their customers.

Parents proud, son Barack Black Eagle enters White House

While the world celebrated as an African American assumed the highest office in the United States, Barack Obama was accompanied by his adopted parents, brother and clan members of the Apsaálooke, or the Crow Nation.

Proposed Stimulus Package a Critical Step to Ensuring Electric Reliability

Provisions encouraging the development of electric transmission, renewable power, and the “smart grid” included in H.R. 1, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 are a critical first step to ensuring a clean and reliable energy future for North America, announced the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) today.

Rising Acidity Threatens Oceans

The oceans have long buffered the effects of climate change by absorbing a substantial portion of the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide. But this benefit has a catch: as the gas dissolves, it makes seawater more acidic. Now an international panel of marine scientists says this acidity is accelerating so fast it threatens the survival of coral reefs, shellfish and the marine food web generally.

Snow Study Shows California Faces Historic Drought

A new survey of California winter snows on Thursday showed the most populous state is facing one of the worst droughts in its history, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger said.

Solar storms; how much grid liability they imply

Our ever-increasing dependence on technology makes the notion of bearing any long-term lack of service from our precious critical infrastructures socially unthinkable. On the other hand, there is an atypical, nature-made scenario which we have been warned may pose a severe challenge to this proposition.

State plan to build wind farms brings hope; Villagers say proposal could ease runaway energy bills

"The wind turbine is a blessing for us," Harvey Paul, general manager of the local power company, Puvurnaq, said Monday. "We have some of the highest fuel prices in the state and some of the best winds."

No longer will seal hunters have to complain when rough weather keeps their skiffs on the beach, Paul said. "Now they'll stay home and enjoy the wind and be happy that their electric rates are going down."

Studies Find Mercury In Much U.S. Corn Syrup

Many common foods made using commercial high fructose corn syrup contain mercury as well, researchers reported on Tuesday, while another study suggested the corn syrup itself is contaminated.

Texas Finalizes Plan To Expand Wind Lines

Texas utility regulators on Thursday awarded nine companies rights to build $5 billion in new electric transmission lines to move power from windy areas to big cities like Dallas and San Antonio, a move aimed at doubling renewable energy supplies.

The Greenhouse Effect and the Bathtub Effect

A new paper in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, concluding that the buildup of human-generated greenhouse gases could leave a profound millenniums-long imprint on climate and sea levels, focuses on a characteristic of global warming that the public, and many policymakers, have not absorbed — at least according to John Sterman at M.I.T.

The magically deflating oil price; Is it all about speculation?

The current economic crisis will give us a little more time, due to declining global oil demand, but it will make the mid-term and long-term problems even worse. This is the case because of the failure to bring new projects online that would otherwise have come online over the next few years.

U.S. Global Warming Satellite Seeks Missing Carbon

The United States next month will launch a satellite to study global warming by measuring carbon dioxide in the atmosphere -- and search for some the climate-changing pollutant scientists cannot find.

U.S. Should Adopt California Car Rules; Schwarzenegger

California on Monday hailed President Barack Obama's move toward letting it and other states regulate greenhouse gases from cars as an "historic win" for clean air and said the federal government should adopt similar national standards.

UN Chief Warns More Could Go Hungry In Crisis Year

U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon on Tuesday said rich nations had to do more to prevent the economic crisis from adding to an already intolerable 1 billion people going hungry in the world.

US House and Senate Move Forward on American Recovery and Reinvestment Act

Stimulus package in discussion includes favorable provisions for renewable energy industry

The U.S. House of Representatives may vote as early as next week on a stimulus package that could bring relief to the beleaguered American economy. Known as the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, the bill (H.R. 598) contains provisions that could help bring stability to the renewable energy industry amid the tough economic environment.

US Mortgage Rates Hold Steady According to Freddie Mac’s Weekly Survey

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 5.10 percent with an average 0.7 point for the week ending January 29, 2009, downfrom last week when it averaged 5.12 percent.  Last year at this time, the 30-year FRM averaged 5.68 percent.

Utility says regulators requiring it to lobby Legislature

A Green Bay utility says state regulators overstepped their bounds and violated its free-speech rights by requiring that the company lobby the Legislature in support of Gov. Jim Doyle's global warming task force.

Wal-Mart promises to accelerate sustainability effort

The incoming CEO of US retail giant Wal-Mart has reiterated the firm's commitment to sustainability, pledging to reduce packaging and environmentally-damaging detergents — but many of its critics remain to be convinced.

Wind energy industry installs 8,358 megawatts of capacity

The U.S. wind energy industry installed a record 8,358 megawatts of new generating capacity in 2008, enough to serve more than two million homes, but is uncertain what 2009 will bring due to the ongoing financial crisis.

The 2008 growth increased the nation´s total wind power generating capacity by 50%, according to the American Wind Energy Association.

January 27, 2009

Alaska Report Sets Goal for 50% Renewables by 2025

The report, titled Alaska Energy--A First Step Towards Energy Independence, identifies and prioritizes energy projects and funding sources. It is not a detailed plan of action, but a collection of options for Alaska communities to develop their own renewable resources, incliuding hydroelectric, geothermal, wind, ocean and solar power.

All eyes on the US for renewables in 2009

As 2009 gets underway, all eyes are turned towards the US, a market poised to begin a dramatic transition in energy and climate policy, but facing decisions still steeped in political wrangling, according to analyst Emerging Energy Research.

American Recovery and Reinvestment Act - As Passed by the Full House Committee on Appropriations

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Bill of 2009 is the first crucial step in a concerted effort to create and save 3 to 4 million jobs, jumpstart our economy, and begin the process of transforming it for the 21st century.

Antarctic sea creatures hypersensitive to warming

Thriving only in near-freezing waters, creatures such as Antarctic sea spiders, limpets or sea urchins may be among the most vulnerable on the planet to global warming, as the Southern Ocean heats up.

Bill Would Stop Uranium Mining Near Grand Canyon National Park

The lands covered by the bill are the last remaining public lands not protected from new uranium development around the park, which extends for 277 miles along the Colorado River in Arizona and receives some five million visitors a year.

Boulder, Colo. company unveils compostable hot cup lid

A Boulder, Colo., company plans to unveil what it believes is the first commercially available compostable hot cup lid in North America.

But Who Will Drive Them?

The cornucopia of hybrid and electric vehicles showcased at the North American International Auto Show this week suggests that the nation’s automakers — domestic and transplanted — have finally acknowledged the need to deliver the fuel-efficient cars and trucks for a future of expensive gas and increasing environmental pressures.

But a big obstacle remains to the greening of American drivers: the price tag.

Calif. official asks EPA head to grant emissions waiver

A California environmental official has sent a letter to Lisa Jackson, nominated to head the Obama administration´s EPA, asking she reconsider granting California a waiver to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from cars.

Clean energy investment up 4.4%

Total new investment in clean energy worldwide rose 4.4% during the course of 2008 and exceeded the US$150 billion mark for the first time, according to full-year figures from New Energy Finance.

Collapse of the Clean Coal Myth

A month of negative news for the Tennessee Valley Authority could lead to positive changes in national policy, including federal regulation of toxic coal wastes and new legal constraints on coal-fired power plants. More broadly, the authority’s recent travails may help persuade the public that coal is nowhere near as “clean” as a high-priced industry advertising campaign makes it out to be.

Crude futures stable after Monday selloff, some technical buying

Global crude futures were stable to slightly stronger in European morning
trading on Tuesday as short-term demand due to colder weather and some
technical buying supported prices, sources said.

Danish battery system developer attracts new investors

Lithium Balance's expertise focuses on the development of large battery sets based on lithium batteries. The company has developed an innovative control system for lithium batteries that can maximize their storage capacity and service life making them ideal for electric and hybrid car applications.

Elsevier site for energy researchers

Elsevier is launching a ‘one-stop’ site for energy researchers covering all aspects of energy including renewables.

“Energylocate brings together all our energy products and services into a one-stop community website for energy scientists and professionals,

Emissions Cut Won’t Bring Quick Relief, Scientists Say

Many people who worry about global warming hope that once emissions of heat-trapping gases decline, the problems they cause will quickly begin to abate.

Now researchers are saying that such hope is ill-founded, at least with regard to carbon dioxide.

Energy Inefficient

From plug-in cars to carbon capture to wind farms linked to “intelligent” power grids, many of the solutions pitched to restructure the country’s energy system and confront global warming rely on a faith in high tech: we expect, or at least hope, that an Apollo project, the energy equivalent of the dot.com revolution or some other burst of creative genius will engineer the problem away.

Fast action needed to avoid climate chaos; study

Global temperature rises due to climate change could be kept below the critical 2 degree mark by fast international action to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 70 percent by 2030, a report said on Monday.

Scientists say that if temperatures increase beyond 2 degrees, humanity faces severe environmental fallout, such as melting polar ice caps and rising sealevels.

Favorable Federal Environmental Report Should Clear Major Obstacle for Nation's First Offshore Wind Power Facility

According to local and national clean energy advocates, the agency's favorable assessment should now clear the way for the path-breaking project to move forward after languishing for years in agency review.

Flaring Issues

With the world grappling with ways to reduce carbon emissions and bring forth more energy resources, some are questioning why oil companies must still flare natural gas. The problem has long lurked. But as energy companies develop a wider liquefied natural gas (LNG) infrastructure, the practice may one day cease.

Geothermal Energy Bringing Millions of New Dollars to Federal, State, and Local Governments

According to a new report "Geothermal Revenue Under the Energy Policy Act of 2005," changes made in 2005 to federal geothermal leasing laws are bringing in millions of new and additional dollars to federal, state, and county government coffers.

Global warming could suffocate the sea

Fish could vanish from huge stretches of the ocean for tens of thousands of years unless we drastically reduce our carbon emissions.

Green economy will help fight climate change

New figures released today show that moving to a “green” global economy could not only protect the planet from the worst effects of climate change but is surprisingly affordable.

More loan guarantees for ethanol part of stimulus package; USDA

Expanded loan guarantees for the US ethanol industry will be a key Obama administration tool to help the struggling biofuels industry survive lean times, US Agriculture Department Secretary Tom Vilsack told reporters Monday.

New Administration Sparks Signs of Strengthening Consumer Confidence

50 percent of consumers reported they will have more confidence in the economy while more than 1 in 4 feel more comfortable increasing their everyday spending now that the new administration has taken over.

Obama acts to reverse Bush climate moves

U.S. President Barack Obama will start reversing former President George W. Bush's climate change policies on Monday with steps to raise fuel efficiency standards and grant states authority to limit greenhouse gas emissions from cars.

Obama further boosts renewables with $100 billion credit line

US President Barack Obama will set up a temporary $100 billion program to
help finance new renewable energy projects and will also seek to build or
modernize 3,000 miles of transmission lines as part of his national economic
recovery package, the White House said Saturday.

OPEC has done enough to stabilize prices around $45 b; CGES

OPEC appears to have cut enough crude production to stabilize oil prices
around $45/barrel, despite not having managed to reduce output to official
limits, the London-based Centre for Global Energy Studies said Tuesday.

Renewable Energy Marks Significant 'First'

For the first time ever, non-hydroelectric renewable energy, led by wind power, was the leading source of new electric generating capacity in the United States, according to a newly-released report from the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

Renewables could receive £1.1 billion funding

The initiative is also geared at making the UK more energy efficient, protecting energy supplies for present and future generations, and improving the country’s skills base.

Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 012609

The geomagnetic field ranged from quiet to active levels. A recurrent enhancement in solar wind speed began late on 25 January. Solar wind speed increased from 280 km/s to about 380 km/s.

Solar plant application submitted to SLO County

It’s official. SunPower Corp. Wednesday filed its application with San Luis Obispo County planners to build a 250-megawatt solar power plant in eastern SLO County.

Called California Valley Solar Ranch, the facility would generate enough electricity to power nearly every home in the county.

Storms force Spain, France to suspend commercial power operations

Spanish power grid operator Red Electrica and French counterpart RTE have
suspended commercial operations between the two countries because of network damage caused by fierce winds over the weekend, the two operators said on Sunday.

Survey Finds Investors Hopeful But Holding Onto Cash

Global investor gloom has started to lift, with hopes of improving growth and inflation rather than deflation, according to the Merrill Lynch Survey of Fund Managers for January.

The Carbon Marketing Wars Have Begun

Their logos and packaging are near clones—Lay's potato chips in the United States and Walkers crisps in the United Kingdom. The story behind the similarity is that both brands are owned by PepsiCo. But a subtle difference sets them apart. Each bag of Walkers crisps carries a label stating that 75.0 grams of carbon were emitted to produce a 34.5 gram bag of chips.

U.S. Industrials See Green In Obama Stimulus Plan

Diversified U.S. manufacturers including General Electric Co and United Technologies Corp could be among the first companies to benefit from U.S. President Barack Obama's proposed $825 billion stimulus, but likely will not feel any effects until late this year.

UK energy-intensive sectors report a halving of output

The worst-affected sectors are the construction and automotive sectors, where demand for finished products, such as steel and cement, is down because of the recession.

Ukraine reassures EU that Russian gas accord will stand; Barroso

Ukraine's President Viktor Yushchenko has reassured European Commission
President Jose Manuel Barroso that he will stand by the agreement with Russia that restored gas supplies to the EU last week after a two-week halt, Barroso said Tuesday.

US EPA board agrees to review Desert Rock power plant permit

The EPA board also said it would stay or suspend any further decisions on
the question of whether, or if, the Desert Rock facility must use the best
available control technology to cut carbon dioxide emissions.

US Senate Finance panel would offer $34 bil in energy tax breaks

US Senate Finance Committee Democrats on Friday released a package of tax incentives and cuts that would provide billions of dollars more for energy efficiency, renewable energy and transmission projects than was included in a corresponding package approved Thursday by the US House Ways and Means Committee, according to a summary released Friday.

January 23, 2009

$54 MILLION; MARYLAND FLY ASH, CLASS ACTION SETTLEMENT WINS COURT APPROVAL

The litigation claimed that Constellation contaminated residents’ water supplies and endangered lives by dumping coal ash in a sand and gravel quarry near their homes in Anne Arundel County for more than a decade. The approved settlement totals $54 million.

3 key areas of the energy world await policy direction

As Barack Obama takes office today, some fear forging new energy policy has faded into the background as pulling the U.S. out of recession has become top priority.

Alternative Energy Faces Power Line 'Bottleneck' In U.S. West

Installing large solar installations and dotting landscapes with wind turbines across the western United States would be, technically speaking, straightforward, and potentially popular with the renewed interest in domestic energy sources amid rising economic, environmental and security concerns.

America Needs Its Energy Frontier Spirit

The energy problem has been sharply identified and also over- analyzed. The time has come to deploy capital, revitalize American ingenuity and buckle down to old-fashioned hard work. In my travels throughout the United States energy and environmental patch, there is a clear consensus that leadership is the key ingredient for change and hope.

Antarctica Is Warming, Not Cooling; Study

A review by U.S. scientists of satellite and weather records for Antarctica, which contains 90 percent of the world's ice and would raise world sea levels if it thaws, showed that freezing temperatures had risen by about 0.5 Celsius (0.8 Fahrenheit) since the 1950s.

Anticipating the Climate Black Swan

While the idea has been the central thesis of many of Nassim Taleb's writings over the last several years, the publication of TheBlackSwan1 could not be more timely. Further, the more we look around us, the more we see Black Swans in today's global commercial and financial complex, as well as in the world at large...the premise goes back to the formerly accepted Euro-centric idea that all swans are white. That is until the Europeans first traveled to Australia...

As Economy Slows and Credit Markets Tighten, Asian Companies Scale Back

Asian companies are responding to the global credit crunch and economic slowdown by quickly scaling back their financing needs.

Biodiesel blending key to avoiding winter breakdowns; producers

Proper biodiesel blending can prevent flow performance problems in freezing conditions and should not inhibit the use of the fuel in cold climates, trade sources in Asia said Wednesday.

Bureau of Land Management to Establish Renewable Energy Offices

In one of his last official acts of office, Interior Secretary Dirk Kempthorne has helped pave the way for his replacement, Ken Salazar, by authorizing the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to establish offices that will expedite renewable energy development on the National System of Public Lands.

Climate change has doubled forest mortality

The death rate of the most stable and resilient forests in western North America has doubled during the past few decades as the climate has warmed, according to research to be published Friday.

The increased mortality suggests future landscapes will be thinner, sparser and far more susceptible to widespread diebacks.

Clipper Turbine Works lays off workers

A major layoff today at Clipper Windpower's Cedar Rapids turbine works sent dozens of stunned workers home.

Court Halts Oil and Gas Leasing in Utah Wilderness

At least 110,000 acres of pristine Utah wilderness is temporarily protected from oil and gas companies due to a ruling Saturday night by a federal judge in a case brought by conservationists.

Critics protest Homer deal for Healy power

Chanting "No coal! No secrets!" through their face masks, more than 75 protesters demonstrated here Wednesday against a new deal that would commit Homer Electric Association to buying half the future output of the Healy "clean coal" power plant.

Deaths of Old-Growth Trees Double as Western U.S. Warms

Death rates of old-growth trees in western U.S. forests have more than doubled over the past few decades, and the most likely cause of the trend is regional warming, finds new research to be published Friday in the journal "Science."

Eastern Ideological Differences

The ideological differences between Russia and Ukraine are affecting their shared commercial interests. Previous disputes have centered on Ukraine drifting ever closer to the West -- a battle that resulted in Russia cutting natural gas shipments to Europe two years ago by as much as 30 percent.

Egypt Takes Lead in Middle Eastern Renewable Energy

The Egyptian energy sector is on track to become the leader in Middle Eastern renewable energy initiatives, states one of Egypt's high-ranking government officials.

Energy education seen as path to jobs

In a first-floor room known informally as the "energy lab," Sinclair Community College has a mock house powered by renewable energy, plus solar power equipment and batteries that can store a solar-generated charge to power the house for days.

ERCOT; Texans used 1.7% more electricity in 2008

Texans used about 1.7 percent more electricity in 2008 than the prior year, according to the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, even as U.S. demand for power declined.

EU To Propose $200 Billion Climate Tax On Rich Nations

Rich nations could raise $200 billion in climate funds through a levy on their greenhouse gases from 2013-2020 to help poor countries prepare for global warming, the European Union will say next week.

European Largest Passive House Exhibition

At CEP® the worldwide biggest coherent fair exhibit originates in the area of Passive house. About a quarter of the entire trade fair will deal with this topic.

First Nations to examine opportunities in energy

There are unprecedented opportunities for First Nations in renewable energy generation and transmission throughout First Nations territories. First Nations in Ontario are embarking on an engagement process to identify potential opportunities and partnerships in energy.

Generating Electric Power from Low-Grade Geothermal Energy

Ongoing volcanic activity in many parts of the world suggests a potential abundance of geothermal energy. There are locations where geothermal energy produces steam that directly and indirectly drives turbines and electrical generation equipment.

'Green-Collar Economy' Takes Root

The lot where Isaac Wright Jr., ex-con, tends vegetables next to abandoned railroad tracks and across the street from a boarded-up house is the intersection of social justice, environmental righteousness and economic prosperity.

He is part foot soldier, part guinea pig in a movement that starts in the Englewood, Ill., garden and may reach all the way to the Oval Office, although he may not fully appreciate it.

House Democrats propose bills to promote renewable energy

Virginia.

Democrats in the House of Delegates today proposed several bills to promote renewable energy in Virginia as a way to create jobs.

House Democrats unveil $825B economic stimulus plan

House Democrats unveiled an $825 billion economic stimulus bill Jan. 15 that includes more than $50 billion for clean energy and energy conservation projects and $6 billion to fund water and wastewater infrastructure improvements.

House panel to vote Thursday on stimulus bill's energy provisions

The US House Energy and Commerce Committee is expected to vote Thursday on energy-related provisions of an $825-billion economic stimulus bill that would provide more than $30 billion on efforts to update the US electricity grid and increase energy efficiency.

Inbox 011509

We may not like it, but roughly two-thirds of the waste we generate still gets disposed of in landfills. It's a critically important business in our society, as it is to this publication, and we will continue to bring you the best coverage anywhere of hauling and disposal news and information.

Interior chief pledges to move US to energy independence

US Interior Secretary Ken Salazar said Thursday that the US "is going to
become energy independent and be set free from its addiction to foreign oil."

Mayors; Green Jobs Will Grow From Obama's Stimulus Plan

Climate protection and green jobs will top the agenda for the nation's mayors in 2009. Climate champion Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels has been elected incoming president of the U.S. Conference of Mayors, an influential organization of more than 1,000 major cities, which today wrapped up its winter meeting in Washington.

New EU Heating-Law

The aim of the law is how the renewable energies should increase his proportion in the hot water production and the heating of the buildings, and hereby reducing the import dependence of the fossil energy sources

North American company first to certify carbon footprint

PepsiCo Inc. is the first North American company to certify the carbon footprint of one of its consumer products.

Obama Freezes Pending Federal Rules, Wolves May Benefit

In one of his first presidential acts, President Barack Obama has ordered federal agencies to halt all pending regulations until his administration can review them.

Obama's Energy Plan Could Face Uphill Battle

In his inaugural address, President Obama highlighted energy as one of the major challenges facing the nation. "Each day brings further evidence that the ways we use energy strengthen our adversaries and threaten our planet," he said. The president went on to mention briefly what his goal will be when it comes to energy. "We will harness the sun and the winds and the soil to fuel our cars and our factories," he said.

Oil Experts Turn to Sea's New Energy

Hundreds of jobs could be created by the region's world-leading subsea oil and gas companies as they turn their attention to helping develop huge offshore North Sea wind farms.

Ontario Paves the Way for Electric Cars

Ontario is joining forces with a world-leading company that creates innovative infrastructure for electric cars -- a necessary step in getting electric cars running on Ontario's roads and highways.

OPG Calls for Interest in Supplying Biomass Fuel for Coal-fired Power Stations

Ontario Power Generation has issued a call to potential suppliers of biomass fuel and transportation services as it moves forward with its development program to determine the commercial viability of replacing coal with biomass at existing coal-fuelled generating stations.

Over 850,000 Canadians Call For Focus on Green Jobs, Green Stimulus

In an echo of Barack Obama's dramatic green jobs surge, leading Canadians civil society groups with a combined membership of over 850,000 people are calling for a massive Green Economy Action Fund to be part of January's federal budget.

Patriot Coal Announces Mine Closures

Patriot Coal Corporation today announced a broad initiative to reconfigure certain of its Central Appalachian mining complexes. As a follow-on to the earlier idling of the Jupiter complex, and based on a comprehensive review of its mining operations, the Company intends to idle its Remington complex and Black Oak mine, and reduce activity at the Rocklick preparation facility.

Politics Hovers over National Labs

The laboratories all point to nuclear energy's viability as a fuel source, saying that future reactors will be safer, more cost-effective and highly efficient. That will give nuclear energy a regulatory advantage and therefore help such producers raise capital for their projects.

President Obama Calls for Greater Use of Renewable Energy

President Barack Obama was sworn in yesterday, and his inaugural address called for the expanded use of renewable energy to meet the twin challenges of energy security and climate change. Noting that "each day brings further evidence that the ways we use energy strengthen our adversaries and threaten our planet," President Obama looked to the near future, saying that as a nation, the United States will "harness the sun and the winds and the soil to fuel our cars and run our factories."

Region begins to lead the way in biomass energy

...the forestry technician's phone chirps with calls from places as disparate as the state of Oregon, Taiwan and Hong Kong.

"They are interested in what is happening here,'' said Schmitt. Central Minnesota is viewed by many as "somewhat of an epicenter for biomass energy,'' said Schmitt.

Residents Get Help With Solar Panel Costs

North Oakland residents are taking advantage of a chance to install solar power as part of an ambitious program run by a San Francisco environmental group.

Solar cell maker expands U.S. manufacturing base

SolarWorld AG, one of the oldest makers of photovoltaic cells, said it is continuing to expand its U.S. manufacturing operations despite the global economic recession.

Solar Industry Faces Head Winds but Remains Hopeful

Solar-industry executives paint a bright future for their industry, one where photovoltaic panels adorn roofs of homes and businesses and huge power plants capture the sun's rays to generate electricity. But the industry currently finds itself under cloudy skies and buffeted by threatening winds.

Solar Industry Looks for Light at Tunnel's End

Solar-industry executives paint a bright future for their industry, one where photovoltaic panels adorn roofs of homes and businesses and huge power plants capture the sun's rays to generate electricity. But the industry currently finds itself under cloudy skies and buffeted by threatening winds.

Spring Arriving Earlier, Study Finds

Looking forward to spring? The good news is that it is coming two days earlier on average, but so are summer, autumn and winter, researchers said on Wednesday.

SRP EarthWise Solar Announces Largest Customer-Owned Solar Energy System in Arizona Begins Generating Electricity

The largest customer-owned solar energy project in Arizona, located at the Gatorade manufacturing and distribution facility in Tolleson, Ariz., has begun generating electricity, officials with The Gatorade Company, a division of PepsiCo (PEP), and Salt River Project (SRP) announced today.

Trashing Energy Production

Turning trash to energy is probably a better alternative to burying it in landfills. But the ideal solution would be to recycle it. Localities that are faced with the choices, however, are trying to assess the overall costs and the environmental effects of each option.

US Long-Term Mortgage Rates Rise This Week, Reversing 11-Week Trend

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 5.12 percent with an average 0.7 point for the week ending January 22, 2009, upfrom last week when it averaged 4.96 percent.  Last year at this time, the 30-year FRM averaged 5.48 percent.

US Treasury Provides TARP Funds to Local Banks

The U.S. Treasury Department announced details this week of a $1.5 billion investment in 39 banks made through its Capital Purchase Program.

Water heaters put solar energy within reach

Andrei Mitran of Cary says he has no desire to live "off the grid."

But when choosing a replacement for his 18-year-old hot water heater, the computer programmer says he decided to look into purchasing a solar unit.

Where Are the Local Stimulus Packages?

Add California to the list of states that "see renewable energy as their future," as the LA Times reported earlier this month. Our employment figures are down on a net basis, but renewable energy and energy efficiency remain bright spots in an otherwise maudlin economy.

Wind Energy Jobs to Double By 2020 - New EWEA Study

The European wind energy sector has created 33 new jobs every day for the past five years, journalists attending the launch of a new report from the European Wind Energy Association (EWEA) heard today.

Wind Power Favored in China

Investors have recently favored companies engaged in the wind power generation industry, and several listed companies have marched into the industry or increased investment in the production of wind power generators.

January 20, 2009

Abu Dhabi's Masdar says reviewing London wind farm

Abu Dhabi's green energy firm Masdar said on Monday it was reviewing the economic viability of its London Array offshore wind farm project.

Masdar said in October it would take a 20 percent stake in the project, with German firm E.ON retaining a 30 percent share, in the first part of a wider renewable energy partnership between Masdar and EON.

Antarctic Ice Shelf Set To Collapse Due To Warming

A huge Antarctic ice shelf is on the brink of collapse with just a sliver of ice holding it in place, the latest victim of global warming that is altering maps of the frozen continent.

Climate Scientists Released from Federal Gag Order

As a result, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration specialists represented by the National Weather Service Employees Organization do not have to obtain agency pre-approval to speak or write, whether on or off-duty, concerning any scientific topic deemed "of official interest."

Crude down as gas dispute ends; WTI pressured ahead of expiry

Global crude futures were down during the European morning session Tuesday, with the NYMEX crude contract under significantly more pressure than ICE Brent, down more than $3/barrel ahead of its February expiry at the end of trading today.

Day of Service Touches Hearts Across America

Hundreds of thousands of people participated in more than 11,000 service events across the country today to honor President-elect Barack Obama's request to Americans of all ages to help fellow citizens in celebration of the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday and of his inauguration as the 44th President of the United States.

Duke Energy reviews safety at Belews Creek

Recent spills of coal ash in Alabama and Tennessee piqued the attention of Duke Energy Corp., which reviewed inspection reports about its coal-fire plants in five states including North Carolina.

The company said last week that its 90-acre retention pond that contains coal ash at the Belews Creek Steam Station in Stokes County is safe.

Duke hearing draws a crowd

Green and yellow stickers dotted the shirts of meeting attendees Thursday night as more than 500 of them came out to have their say about Duke Energy's changes to its state air quality permitting application.

Dumping Mountaintops in Coal Country Streams Illegal, Lawsuit Claims

A national parks advocacy group and a southeast regional law firm went to court Friday to challenge a new Bush administration rule they claim limits the government's ability to protect Appalachian streams from mountaintop removal and other destructive forms of surface mining for coal.

Group of Thirty on How to Fix the Global Financial Markets

The report addresses flaws in the global financial system and provides 18 specific recommendations to: improve supervisory systems by redefining the scope, boundaries, and structure of prudential regulation; enhance the role of the central banks; improve governance practices and risk management; address pro-cyclicality via capital and liquidity standards; enhance accounting practices; strengthen the financial infrastructure; and increase coordination internationally.

Massachusetts Moves Closer to Having Nation's First Offshore Wind Farm and More Secure Energy Future

After seven and a half years of comprehensive environmental review, scores of public hearings and community meetings, and energy challenges that make Cape Wind more essential now than when it was first proposed in 2001...

More German Biodiesel Plants Face Closure In 2009

More German biodiesel plants face closure in 2009 following government's decision to raise taxes on green fuels and to scale back an increase in biofuel blending in fossil fuels, a biofuels industry leader said on Monday.

Germany's biodiesel industry, Europe's largest, was working at considerably under 60 percent of its five million-ton annual capacity...

Power to the People in Wind Farm Co-Op Project

A Scotland-wide co-operative could be established next year to allow people to take a stake in, and earn money from, green energy developments.

Four local energy co-ops have been set up in Scotland and three in England and a national organisation is now being proposed.

Renewable industries optimistic about upcoming stimulus bill

Wind, solar and other renewable producers have found it difficult to nail down financing for new projects in the face of tightening credit markets.

A group of renewable advocates met Wednesday with members of President-
elect Barack Obama's transmission team. At the meeting, a variety of measures were discussed to help the industries, a renewable energy advocate said.

Rising Sea Levels Threaten East Coast

Sea levels on the United States' mid-Atlantic coast are rising faster than the global average because of global warming, threatening the future of coastal communities, the Environmental Protection Agency said on Friday.

Russia And Ukraine Sign 10-Year Gas Supply Deal

Russia and Ukraine signed a 10-year gas supply deal Monday to clear the way for a prompt resumption of supplies to a freezing Europe, cut off for nearly two weeks by a dispute between the ex-Soviet states.

Scotland's Biggest Windfarm Grows . . .To Generate Enough Power for Glasgow

Plans for a major expansion of Scotland's biggest windfarm are to be unveiled this week by Scottish Power, with the aim of generating enough electricity for every home in Glasgow.

Set greenhouse gas targets, lawmakers urged

The commission recommends cutting Maryland's greenhouse gases by 25 to 50 percent between now and 2020.

Bills mandating those reductions have failed in the past two years, largely due to opposition from union and business groups. They've said the mandatory reductions might hurt businesses that can't afford pollution upgrades or that can't do business with reduced emissions.

Smart appliances will figure out how to save you energy

If you could save energy, would you?

A new generation of home energy monitors and intelligent appliances that can respond to signals from the grid, saving power when it's priciest, are slowly creeping into homes in the Pacific Northwest. They may now be only a few years away from becoming commonplace, utility leaders and energy efficiency experts say.

Southern states pick up pace on renewable power

Southern U.S. states are picking up the pace to force electric utilities to diversify fuel resources to include wind, solar, biomass and other renewable power resources, according to regulators.

Stimulus Bill Pushes Renewable Energy

The $825 billion economic stimulus package unveiled by Democrats in the House of Representatives on Thursday contains billions of dollars in tax breaks for renewable energy as well as spending for energy efficiency and transmission.

Time Running Out for Steep Emissions Cuts

The world will have to reduce emissions more drastically than has been widely predicted, essentially ending the emission of carbon dioxide by 2050 to avoid catastrophic disruption to the world's climate, according to State of the World 2009: Into a Warming World, released today by the Worldwatch Institute.

Utility Rolls Out 'Green Pricing'

Appalachian Power Co. customers can support the movement toward powering their homes and business with wind and water instead of just coal by spending a few extra dollars each month.

West Virginia to inspect all coal ash impoundments

West Virginia Department of Environmental Regulation Secretary Randy
Huffman has ordered the inspection of the state's 30 coal ash impoundments.

Wind's Clip

Despite the economic downturn, wind energy has the potential to grow at quite a clip. To do so, though, the in-coming Obama administration must commit to a policy foundation that will allow such expansion to occur.

Workers Accepting More Financial Risk and Increasingly Concerned about Job and Financial Stability

The strain of the continued global economic crisis is starting to show in America’s workforce, as more employees hunker down to weather the financial storm. According to survey findings released by global professional services firm Towers Perrin, 82% of U.S. workers have been personally affected by the downturn in the economy. An even greater percentage -- 91% -- said their companies have been affected as well.

World leaders meet to discuss renewable energy

...the summit also comes at a time when the credit crunch and looming world recession has been clobbering green energy company shares and distracting the political establishment.

Here in the Gulf is an unusual array of environment ministers, financiers, and entrepreneurs — but also the big oil companies who are keeping a close eye on those who would like to give the last rights to carbon.

January 16, 2009

Auto Industry Sees Bright Future for Electric Vehicles

Major auto companies worldwide see electric cars in their future, and a lot of motorists are driving them today, mostly in the form of gas-electric hybrids.

AWEA and SEIA Call for Refundable Renewable Energy Tax Credits

Barack Obama will be sworn in as President of the United States next week and as his administration takes over the reins of the republic, the renewable energy industries will be watching closely. Obama has said that he plans for the government to invest US $150 billion in renewable energy and hopefully double generation capacity from renewable sources by 2010. His proposed economic stimulus package could be the vehicle that will deliver on those goals.

Buoy to test feasibility of wave energy

While wind turbines have sparked recent controversy, another alternative energy source quietly slid into Newburyport yesterday.

Canadian chiefs deliver warning to Obama’s transition team

Several chiefs from Canada’s First Nations recently traveled to the nation’s capital to meet with members of President Barack Obama’s transition team. Their main objective was to get the new president to apply international pressure on the Canadian government to share oil resource wealth with the indigenous people of Canada.

Charting a Bold Course

It's not too late for the United States to help lead the world into a carbon-free solar era, but it will take national commitment on the scale seen during World War II.

China Faces Water Crisis

The Yangtze water conservation projects are needed but they will not be enough to address a stern warning from the World Bank this week that China is facing a "severe water-shortage crisis."

'Clean coal'; Law could open door to new generation of coal-burning power plants; $18 million to fund studies for proposed Downstate facility

As President-elect Barack Obama vows to curb pollution linked to global climate change, Illinois is moving closer to building a new power plant that could be a showcase for burning dirty-but-plentiful coal more cleanly.

Climate change action plan; Utilities worried about future

Unless Minnesota adopts a climate change action plan this session, state law bans construction of any new coal-fired power plants as of Aug. 1, and that scares utilities.

Companies lay out wishes for US carbon law

The U.S. Climate Action Partnership, a group of 26 big companies and several environmental organizations, proposed reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 80 percent from 2005 levels by 2050 through an economy-wide cap-and-trade program.

Energy Efficiency Programs Can Realistically Reduce Growth in Electricity Consumption by 22%, According to EPRI

Energy efficiency programs in the United States could realistically reduce the rate of growth for electricity consumption by 22 percent over the next two decades if key barriers can be addressed, according to an analysis released today by the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI).

EPA Nominee Jackson Promises Science Will Trump Politics

Scientific integrity and the rule of law will be the "two core values" guiding decisions by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency under the incoming Obama administration, the president elect's nominee to head the agency vowed today at her confirmation hearing.

Gaining Our Freedom from Oil

As the next President takes office on January 20, 2009, the nation looks to him to come up with a plan that will put an end to the crippling high energy costs. The plan must be thoroughly thought out and based in reality. Yet it must be executed quickly, forcefully, and successfully.

Global Warming Forecast to Leave Half the World Hungry by 2100

Climate change will desiccate crop yields in the tropics and subtropics by the end of this century, leaving half the world's population facing a food crisis unless methods of adaptation are found quickly, new research shows.

Glut of Rooftop Solar Systems Sinks Prices

Here's a bright spot in an overcast economy: Solar panel prices are tumbling.

Prices for rooftop solar systems, including installation, already have fallen 8% to 10% since October and are expected to drop another 15% to 20% this year.

Gold has potential to jump back up to $1,000/oz in 2009-analysts

Gold, the traditional safe-haven asset-class in times of economic uncertainty, hasn't responded as well to the current downturn as many, especially those holding long positions in the precious metal, would like. Still, perhaps there is some light at the end of the tunnel as a clutch of commentators believe that the yellow metal has the potential to return to $1,000/oz in 2009.

Latest TVA Ash Spill Site In Alabama Contains Even More Toxic Metals Than Harriman, Tennesee Spill Site From December

The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) apparently has reported a new spill at the Widows Creek Fossil Plant in northeast Alabama. According to TVA's own data, the Widows Creek plant disposed of even more toxic metals in its coal ash ponds than the TVA Kingston plant, which was the site of a widely publicized pre-Christmas coal ash spill.

Methane, Potent Greenhouse Gas, Flowing Into The Atmosphere From Tundra Much Faster Than Expected

Much more methane gas is being emitted into the atmosphere from the tundra in northeast Greenland than previous studies have shown. New figures reveal that large amounts of greenhouse gases are being emitted into the atmosphere, not just during the warm summer months, but also during the colder autumn months.

More scrubbers ordered for Widows Creek plant

The Tennessee Valley Authority must install scrubbers on boilers at its second-oldest coal-fired power plant, a federal court ordered this week.

New Solar Technology Concentrates on Cost, Efficiency

It looks like a giant funhouse mirror. But the big new dish atop South Table Mountain could be a renewable energy breakthrough that helps make concentrated solar power more affordable and appealing to utilities and their customers.

Nuclear bill causes reaction; Senator's bill 'a backhanded slap'

Sen. Scott McCoy says his nuclear-power bill makes sense, making sure that ratepayers don't wind up paying for a reactor boondoggle and that residents don't get stuck with storing containers of nuclear waste.

Obama Interior pick says OCS drilling part of energy plan

Oil and natural gas drilling in the US Outer Continental Shelf as part of a comprehensive energy package will likely be supported by the Obama administration, although some areas will remain off limits to development, Interior Secretary-designate Ken Salazar told the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Thursday.

Obama pick for EPA says she would use Clean Air Act to limit CO2

Lisa Jackson, President-elect Barack Obama's choice to head the US Environmental Protection Agency, told the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee Wednesday that her agency will not wait for Congress to enact climate change legislation and will use the Clean Air Act to begin limiting greenhouse gas emissions from such sources as power plants, refineries and other heavy industries.

Ohio to check out coal-ash dams

State dam-safety workers will step up inspections and review past inspections of 20 ponds that Ohio power plants use to store billions of gallons of toxic coal ash.

OPEC crude output falls to 30.9 million b/d in December; IEA

OPEC's crude production fell to 30.9 million b/d in December, down 320,000 b/d from 31.22 million b/d in November, the International Energy Agency said Friday.

Rain speeds Antarctic Peninsula glacier melt

More rain on the Antarctic Peninsula is speeding a melt of glaciers such as the Sheldon, which has retreated 2 km (1.2 miles) in 20 years and is nudging up world sea levels, a leading expert said.

"Rain is very corrosive to glaciers and at least in part the reason this glacier is retreating," ...

Renewable Energy Projects A Success in New York

The New York State Public Service Commission (Commission) today received a report from Department of Public Service Staff indicating that consumers and businesses in New York are eagerly installing self-generation devices such as solar photovoltaic systems, fuel cells, anaerobic digestion biogas systems, and small wind turbines as a way to reduce consumption of fossil fuels and lower monthly utility bills.

Stimulus bill could reach House floor by late January; Hoyer

The number two Democrat in the US House of Representatives on Wednesday said a major economic stimulus package containing billions of dollars in spending and tax breaks for renewable energy and energy efficiency programs could be voted on by the House by the end of January.

Texas Approves Nation's Largest Low-Level Radioactive Waste Site

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, voted 2-0 Tuesday to grant a double license for Waste Control Specialists to dispose of up to 28 million cubic feet of low-level radioactive waste from Texas, Vermont and the federal government in Andrews County. Commissioner Larry Soward abstained from the vote.

US DOE head nominee Chu says he would restore US as energy leader

President-elect Barack Obama's choice for energy secretary, Steven Chu,
on Tuesday pledged to senators at his confirmation hearing that he will
improve management and jumpstart programs more quickly at the department.

US House includes $32 bil for grid, renewables in stimulus bill

US House of Representatives leadership have unveiled their proposed $825
billion economic stimulus legislation, which includes $32 billion to transform
the nation's electricity grid and boost renewable energy resources.

US renewables sector can meet Obama challenge — analysts

The US renewable energy sector is capable of meeting President-elect Barack Obama's pledge to double US production within three years, but the ongoing financial crisis will challenge the industry in 2009, analysts and industry experts said.

US Senate OKs broad lands bill curbing Wyoming oil, gas drilling

The US Senate on Thursday approved in a 73-21 vote a broad public lands
bill that would, among other things, place 1.2 million acres of the Wyoming
Range off limits to oil and natural gas producers.

USDA approves $300 million loan for carbon capture at coal plant

The US Department of Agriculture approved a $300 million loan to a North
Dakota coal-fired power plant to install carbon capture technology.

Utilities rose 15.6% in '08, PSC says

The average West Virginian's monthly utility bills rose 15.6 percent in 2008, driven largely by increases in the cost of natural gas and electric service, according to a study released Wednesday by the state Public Service Commission's Consumer Advocate Division.

Without Delay; Congress to Fast-Track Climate Legislation

The heads of some of America's largest corporations together with the leaders of five of the country's largest environmental groups today presented a joint plan to Congress for climate protection legislation. Congressional Democrats met their call for immediate action with assurances that they agree - there is no time for delay.

January 13, 2009

Ambitious Agenda, Simple Ideals

The Hill, by U.S. Senator Harry Reid (D-NV), January 6, 2008

To strengthen both our economy and our security, this Congress will make America more energy-efficient and energy-independent, and significantly increase our investments in clean and renewable energy resources. We have the tools at our fingertips to create green jobs that cannot be outsourced while simultaneously reinvigorating our manufacturing economy and meeting our serious environmental challenges. We must also fulfill our commitment to breaking the nation’s addiction to oil and reducing our dependence on energy supplies from volatile regions of the world.

Bill Signing Finalizes Year-Long Push for Clean Coal Portfolio Standard in Illinois

The new law creates a framework for developing coal gasification projects with carbon dioxide (CO2) capture and storage, requiring emissions from these electric generation facilities,

California Regulators Push Energy Efficiency for TVs

Televisions consume about 4 percent of household electricity nationally, and the modern flat-panels are especially energy-intensive. Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) models require 43 percent more power than conventional tube TVs. In response, California regulators are drafting rules mandating that retailers stock only the most energy-efficient TVs

China Combating Pollution by Paying People Not to Drive

China is so desperate to get high-polluting cars off the roads of Beijing, the city government is willing to pay drivers $3,600 not to use their cars.

This comes at an interesting time for China as it battles its impacts on the environment, and perhaps equally important, how the rest of the world views its response.

Climate Warming Means Food Shortages, Study Warns

The warming climate is likely to put stress on crops and livestock alike and could cause serious food shortages for half the world's population, U.S. researchers predicted on Thursday.

The worst effects will be in the regions where the poorest people already live -- the tropics and subtropics, the researchers wrote in the journal Science.

Continental Conducts First Test Flight With Algae-Based Biofuel

Continental Airlines flew a demonstration flight yesterday powered in part by a biofuel made from algae and jatropha oil. It is the first U.S. commercial carrier to do so. The algae oil was provided by Sapphire Energy, and the jatropha oil by Terasol Energy. It was the first time a commercial carrier has power a flight using fuel derived in part from algae.

Diesel moves to center stage for refiners

Diesel shared the steep climbs then precipitous falls of the rest of the oil complex in 2008, but the landmark transition for the driving fuel was its supplanting of gasoline as the defining component in the oil barrel

Dynegy Drops Dirty Coal Plants under Sierra Club Pressure

Under pressure from the Sierra Club's "Clean Up Dynegy Campaign," Dynegy Inc. today announced that it is pulling out of its joint venture with LS Power and abandoning five of its seven proposed coal-fired power plants.

Ecosystem Markets Take Off

While global financial markets crumble, a new form of markets is on the rise. 

Ecosystem markets, exchanges of nature's various services, are adding new dimensions to conservation. In addition to using regulation to restrict development, more countries are turning to the invisible hand of the market to protect biodiversity, clean waterways, and fight climate change. 

Efficiency and Conservation Measures Could Drop Energy Demand by 2020

Dramatically ramping up energy efficiency would allow the world to not only avoid growth in energy demand but actually reduce global demand to at least 6 percent below 2006 levels by 2020.

Electric car is just the beginning, Ford says

"This electrification effort is really ramping up," he said. "Not only within the company, but we think ... the country is going to put a lot of effort behind this, and so we want to make sure that we are not only there, but that we are leading the drive to get there."

Electric Cars Rule at Auto Show

Automakers are gambling that there's a market for electric-power cars, even as gas prices drop.

EU says observers denied access to Moscow, Kiev gas control rooms

The international monitoring teams sent to the central dispatching centers in Kiev and Moscow to monitor the resumption of Russian gas flows to the EU are on site but have been denied access to the control rooms, an EC official said Tuesday.

Financial crisis makes cap-and-trade schemes less viable

The US Congress is more likely to ultimately reject cap-and-trade schemes
in favor of taxes aimed at curbing carbon emissions in the wake of the Wall
Street meltdown, according to the Carbon Tax Center's Charles Komanoff.

Fuel Cell Industry Proposes $1.2 Billion from Stimulus Package

The fuel cell industry is asking Congress and the incoming Obama Administration to set aside $1.2 billion in the planned stimulus package for fuel cells and their fuels.

GM to launch battery production

As part of a multi-pronged, advanced battery development strategy to bring the Volt to market by 2010, GM Chairman Wagoner unveiled several initiatives.

Gulf Oil States Seeking a Lead in Clean Energy

ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates — With one of the highest per capita carbon footprints in the world, these oil-rich emirates would seem an unlikely place for a green revolution.

Kansas Governor Sebelius Unveils Sustainable Energy Plan

Governor Kathleen Sebelius today announced the legislative components of a comprehensive energy plan for Kansas.

New digital map of Africa's depleted soils to offer insights critical for boosting food production

Responding to sub-Saharan Africa's soil health crisis, the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) announced today an ambitious new effort to produce the first-ever, detailed digital soil map for all 42 countries of the region.

NRC, Nuclear Industry Mull Personnel Lack

Are there enough qualified people to keep Vermont Yankee operating until 2032?

Or what about any of the other 103 commercial reactors in the United States?

Across the industry, personnel shortages could lead to the loss of institutional knowledge and years of experience.

Obama discusses energy, climate change with president of Mexico

US President-elect Barack Obama met privately Monday with Mexico
President Felipe Calderon to discuss energy policy, global climate change and
a host of other issues.

Obama Renewables Plan More Ambitious Than Appears

President-elect Barack Obama's call for an ambitious renewable energy plan underscores just how bad things have gotten for makers of solar panels and wind turbines.

The goal to double alternative energy production in three years will effectively maintain the high-flying industry's recent growth rates rather than targeting sharper increases, reflecting the harsh new reality facing green power.

Obama starts year with renewable energy pledge

US president-elect Barack Obama reiterated again at the weekend that strategic investments in renewable energy will be an integral part of his plan to create three million new jobs over the next two years.

Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 011209

Solar Activity Forecast: Solar activity is expected to be very low. There is a slight chance for a C-class flare...The geomagnetic field is expected to be predominately quiet for the next three days (13 - 15 January).

Saving energy pays off for San Gabriel

Who said saving energy can't be profitable?

During a year full of eco-friendly initiatives, San Gabriel officials have put a cork in the city's energy consumption -- switching out lightbulbs for energy efficient lighting, purchasing hybrid vehicles, even planting trees.

Those and other efforts to make San Gabriel a greener place recently paid off when Southern California Edison and the San Gabriel EnergyWise Partnership presented the city with a check for $50,000.

Scotland's in the Grip of a Green Revolution

Hundreds of communities across Scotland have stepped up to the challenge of fighting climate change as a green revolution sweeps the country.

Solar Power Farm Has Been Completed in Hawaii

Castle & Cooke Inc. has officially finished building Hawaii's largest single-site solar farm on Lanai. The array of 7,400 tilting photovoltaic panels now cuts across 10 acres of the former agricultural land. The $19 million, 1.2-megawatt La Ola Solar Farm is expected to supply up to 30 percent of Lanai's electricity.

Solar Power Partners Places 19 New Solar Energy Facilities into Commercial Operation

Solar Power Partners, Inc. (SPP), a leading nationwide commercial developer of distributed solar energy facilities (SEFs), today announced that it has placed into service 19 new SEFs with a total capacity of 7.7 MW. This new capacity, along with the 5.1 MW in SPP Fund I, firmly positions SPP as a top solar developer in the United States. The projects will provide solar power to a variety of customers, including several corporate clients, three universities, two healthcare facilities, a water district, a wastewater treatment facility, and a public school.

Study Suggests Investments In Energy Efficiency Better Choice Than Virginia Coal-Fired Power Plant

A new report, performed by Abt Associates, shows that investing in energy efficiency instead of building the Wise County coal plant to meet the same electricity demand would yield hundreds of millions of dollars more annually for the state and create at least 2,600 more jobs than the controversial 585-megawatt coal-fired power plant.

Texas Legislature to revive clean coal debate

The clean coal debate lives.

The Texas Legislature this session will revive the issue by considering whether to give tax breaks to companies building cleaner, coal-fired power plants that capture greenhouse gases.

The Federal Shield

The federal government has determined that some institutions are "too big to fail" and that any bankruptcy would be unduly disruptive. In other instances, though, the feds are letting the laggards pay the ultimate price. The decisions appear arbitrary but the general thinking among policymakers is that a dour business cycle would become even worse if taxpayers sat idle.

The Rush for Gigawatts in the Desert Explodes

The federal Bureau of Land Management has seen a 78 percent jump in the number of solar energy project applications since it reversed a controversial decision last July and started to accept applications again.

The Staggering Cost of New Nuclear Power - Triple Current U.S. Electricity Rates

A new study, "Business Risks and Costs of New Nuclear Power," puts the generation costs for power from new nuclear plants (including fuel & O&M but not distribution to customers) at from 25 to 30 cents per kilowatt-hour. This is far higher than the cost of a variety of carbon-free renewable power sources available today — and ten times the cost of energy efficiency.

Tropical rainforests are regrowing. Now what?

The world's tropical rainforests are making a comeback, but young vegetation may not be able to sustain as much diverse wildlife or lock up nearly as much climate-warming carbon dioxide as old trees did, scientists report.

TVA's Long Road Ahead

The nation's largest utility has begun serious outreach programs and clean-up initiatives. But civic and business leaders say that much more is necessary, noting that TVA has skimped on previous modernization efforts. They emphasize that the utility must now reach inside its treasury to safeguard local communities, advance area infrastructure and expand the scope of its green energy endeavors.

U.S. Department of Energy's Releases Groundbreaking Marine and Hydrokinetic Technology Database

The U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Wind and Hydropower Technologies Program has developed and released a database that provides up-to-date information on marine and hydrokinetic renewable energy in the United States and around the world.

U.S. Senate Breaks Blockade of Public Lands Bills by Dr. No

Sunday was a working day for the brand new 111th Congress, now in the control of Democrats. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid of Nevada lost no time in using his authority to make a massive omnibus public lands package the first order of business.

US fines Shell $1 million for pollution at Puerto Rico plant

The US' Environmental Protection Agency has fined Shell just over $1 million and ordered the company to spend at least $273,800 tightening its pollution controls at its Puerto Rico chemical facility.

US Senate set to resume debate on federal lands bill

Following debate Sunday on a public lands bill that would set new protections for wilderness areas, forests and water resources, the US Senate is scheduled to resume consideration of the measure Monday afternoon.

Utilities Seek 'Renewable' Goal Change

If the Legislature agrees, the change would allow utilities to use nuclear power and new coal-burning technology to meet whatever "green" standard state lawmakers approve.

Venture Capitalist Tells Congress U.S. Losing Green Race

Silicon Valley venture capitalist John Doerr (a partner at Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers, which is betting billions on clean energy technologies), whose early investments helped launch Google and Amazon, delivered a stark warning to Congress on Wednesday that the United States is on the verge of being left behind in the green tech revolution. He made five recommendations to jump-start a green-tech revolution and fight global warming:

Waste Spills From a Second TVA Coal-Fired Power Plant

The Tennessee Valley Authority's second waste spill in three weeks at one of its coal-fired power plants has drawn demands that the federally owned and operated utility act immediately to secure the waste at its facilities.

Wind, Solar Industry Leaders Say Obama, Congress Should Make Tax Incentives Refundable

The American Wind Energy Association and the Solar Energy Industries Association today reported that both wind and solar energy enjoyed record-breaking years in 2008, but face a dramatic reduction in 2009 if Congress and the incoming Administration do not take swift action to help make renewable tax incentives work in today’s difficult economy. Both cited the need to make the ITC and PTC refundable to preserve their effectiveness in the current economic climate and maintain the very strong growth of both industries.

January 9, 2009

Abu Dhabi; The New Prince of Solar Technology

"The Sun," said Jalal al-Din Rumi, one of the world's greatest poets, "must come." And the Arab world, which was an engine for centuries of innovation in science, philosophy and the arts, is now poised to become a leader in solar technology.

AZ Council approves standards to protect waters from pollution

"These standards are long overdue and are absolutely essential to protect Arizona's precious water resources," ADEQ Director Steve Owens said. "The people of this state deserve clean water in our rivers, lakes and streams."

Building Wind Manufacturing

The forces driving the development of new wind generation in the United States are reaching Category 4 hurricane strength. Although today wind accounts for just 1.5 percent of the nation's electricity, if current trends continue, we'll meet the DOE's articulated goal of 20 percent wind-powered generation well ahead of the 2030 target. But that's a big if.

Bush To Declare Pacific Areas Protected Monuments

President George W. Bush will designate nearly 200,000 square miles (518,000 sq km) of the Pacific ocean on Tuesday as a protected region, White House officials said, making the areas hands-off for oil drilling or other extraction procedures.

Bush won't impose tougher fuel rules

The Bush administration declined Wednesday to put into place tough new fuel economy rules for cars and trucks, letting the incoming Obama administration decide how to balance cutting Americans' demand for oil with billions of dollars in new costs for struggling Detroit automakers.

Business zones to get windmills

Wind turbines nearly 100 feet tall could start appearing in industrial and commercial areas around Flagstaff in a just a few short months.

Climate Change Threatens Pacific, Arctic Conflicts

Climate change and rising sea levels pose one of the biggest threats to security in the Pacific and may also spark a global conflict over energy reserves under melting Arctic ice, according to Australia's military.

Coal Ash Spill Reveals Risks, Lapses in Waste Regulation

The coal ash spill in Tennessee last month is putting a spotlight on whether the ash from 450 other power plants around the country could be contaminating the nation's drinking water supplies.

Coal Ash Spills Could Happen at Dumps Across USA

Nearly 100 coal ash dumps across the United States pose similar or even greater potential dangers than the eastern Tennessee site that spilled a billion gallons of toxic sludge and contaminated water last month, finds a report released today by environmentalists.

Company to begin providing nationwide recycling Jan. 15

It will have 280 recycling locations around the United States and at least one in each state. The company expects to establish at least 800 drop-off sites by 2011.

Controversial Waterloo power plant cancelled

LS Power has pulled the plug on plans to build a $1.3 billion coal-fired generating station in Waterloo.

Defendants to pay $100 million for contaminated landfill

Defendants will pay about $100 million to help remediate a Superfund site that’s being called one of the nation’s most contaminated landfills.

More than 200 defendants are paying the cash to help cover the clean-up cost of the long-closed Combe Fill South landfill in Morris County, N.J., a Superfund site.

Delaware River to Be Repaired After 2004 Oil Spill

On November 26, 2004, the oil tanker Athos I struck a submerged anchor while preparing to dock in Paulsboro, New Jersey...The spill damaged more than 280 miles of shoreline, affecting habitats and aquatic organisms, killing thousands of birds and other wildlife, as well as hindering recreational use of the river...

Developing La Niña conditions are likely to continue into Northern Hemisphere Spring 2009

During December 2008, negative equatorial sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies strengthened across the central and east-central Pacific Ocean

Drinking Water Infrastructure Investment Could Create 400,000 Jobs

Today, more than $10B in drinking water infrastructure projects around the nation are shovel-ready and can be underway as soon as funds are committed. These projects would put more than 400,000 Americans to work on aging water mains, leaking pipes, treatment plants, pump stations, storage reservoirs, elevated tanks, security safeguards and other needs.

Electric cars will grow in '09

While the trials and tribulations of the Big Three auto makers got most of the attention in 2008, electric cars are expected to make news in 2009.

"All of the auto makers are working on electric vehicles in some form,"...

Energy plan touts renewable sources

The Nebraska Energy Office is proposing that the Legislature do something it has yet to do: Require the state's utilities to generate a minimum amount of electricity from renewable sources.

EPA Seeks Advice on Perchlorate in Drinking Water

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is seeking advice from the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) before making a final determination on whether to issue a national regulation for perchlorate in drinking water.

EPA to levy additional fines against Energy Department

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is threatening to levy additional fines against the Energy Department unless it immediately resumes cleanup activities at its Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in Livermore, Calif.

EU warns of risk to reputations of Russia, Ukraine on gas crisis

The European Commission Thursday said the reputations of Russia and Ukraine were at risk from the ongoing gas crisis, and said the EU was willing to send monitors to check on the situation immediately.

Europe leads by example with climate change package compromise

Against a backdrop of intransigence from Poland and Hungary, and to a slightly lesser extent from Germany and Italy, the European Parliament has voted in favor of a climate change package. However, the compromise is more generous to corporate interests than was originally anticipated and it allows member states to undertake most of their emissions reductions outside of Europe.

First Wave of New Reactor License Applications for UniStar Sites Accepted and Docketed by Nuclear Regulatory Commission

UniStar Nuclear Energy, a strategic joint venture of Constellation Energy (NYSE:CEG) and EDF Group, today announced that the initial acceptance review phase is now complete for the first wave of UniStar's proposed fleet of advanced nuclear power plants in the United States.

France gas demand hits record Weds while Russian supplies down

Cold weather has swept across Western Europe this week, hiking gas and power demand across the continent. At the same time, Russian supplies into France remain severely curbed following Gazprom's cut of supplies through Ukraine.

Hammering out Carbon Controls

The Northeastern region conducted its second carbon credit auction, raising $106 million to be divvied up this month among 10 states in the area and then used to promote clean energy technologies. That process is being viewed by the incoming presidential administration as a possible national prototype.

Inbox 010809

The city of Toronto has given the restaurant chain and other hot-drink sellers until the end of the year to either come up with a paper lid for their cups or to switch to Styrofoam. If they don´t, the city says it will ban all disposable paper cups with plastic lids.

India faces energy crisis as oil workers' strike enters third day

India faces a severe energy crisis with the possibility of power blackouts and drying fuel pumps as the indefinite nationwide strike by state-run oil company officials entered its third day, oil industry officials said Friday.

Iowa Considers Water Quality Law Changes

Torbert said the Iowa Department of Natural Resources is looking at further ways to protect the state's waters from pollution. Farmers may be required to take measures similar to those currently taken by businesses and industries to reduce contamination of water, he said. "Drainage districts have had an exemption that exists in current legislation," Torbert said.

Japan To Monitor Greenhouse Gases From Space

Japan's space agency will launch a satellite later this month to monitor greenhouse gases around the world, officials said Wednesday, hoping the data it collects helps global efforts to combat climate change.

Kansas could gain 11,000 environmental jobs

Kansas will gain more than 11,000 manufacturing jobs in the renewable energy industry, according to a report released today.

Kashkari Updates Progress of TARP

The following are remarks by Interim Assistant Secretary for Financial Stability Neel Kashkari at Brookings Institution.

Key US Senate Republican adds voice to growing carbon tax chorus

A Republican US senator and emerging voice on energy issues said Thursday he would support the creation of a price for carbon, as long as it took the form of a carbon tax rather than a cap-and-trade system.

Markey to become chair of House environment panel

This is a very significant development, and one that should enhance the prospects for good global warming legislation in this Congress.

Markey will be bumping Rep. Rick Boucher (D-VA), a nice guy but one wedded to protecting the interests of the coal industry.

Mine deaths fell to all-time low in 2008

Preliminary data from the U.S. Department of Labor's Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) released today show that mine fatalities in 2008 fell to an all-time low recording a 31 percent drop from 2007. Metal/nonmetal mines recorded the lowest level of fatalities in that sector of mining since statistics were first recorded in 1910, and the fatality level in coal mines was the lowest recorded number since 2005.

Mixed News On Mercury In Indiana's Water

Rain and snow falling in Indiana contains less mercury than it did in years past. Yet some of the state's major waterways have mercury levels that could be harmful to humans and wildlife.

Nepal to Bring Forward 16-Hour Power Cuts

Citing significant differences in the demand and supply of power, Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) is planning to increase the load- shedding hours to 16 hours a day in a couple of days, much earlier than projected.

New technique 'banks' wind farm energy

A high-tech way of "banking" extra energy from high winds can improve wind power's ups and downs and make it more efficient, U.S. university researchers said.

The method uses an algorithm, or sequence of finite instructions, to take advantage of high winds and wind gusts..

Obama remarks highlight alternative energy, efficiency

President-elect Barack Obama said Thursday that advancing clean energy within his nearly trillion-dollar economic recovery package proposal would be one part of a plan that would ensure the US economy does not sink deeper into a recession that could "linger for years."

Obama Vows Dramatic Action Towards a Greener Economy

President-elect Barack Obama today pledged to quickly implement a plan that will save or create three million jobs by doubling the production of alternative energy; weatherizing 75 percent of federal buildings and two million American homes; and investing in new infrastructure, science, research, and technology.

Once They Were Gods

Once they were as gods, but the deities of the American banking system [have]… now plunged from their pedestals into the maw of taxpayer largesse…

Once reducers of CO2, Canada's trees now contribute to global warming

In an alarming, yet little noticed series of recent studies, scientists have determined that Canada's 1.2 million square miles of forests have become so stressed from damage caused by global warming, insect infestations and persistent fires that they have crossed an ominous line and now pump out more carbon dioxide than they take in.

Oregonians Worried About Adequate Water Supply

A majority of Oregonians who recently participated in a series of water forums don't believe the state has enough water to meet all of its basic needs, including those of wildlife.

Study; Shade Trees Lower Bills, Emissions

Shade trees on the west and south sides of a house in California can reduce summertime electricity use and reduce carbon emissions, a study indicates.

Supporters outnumber protesters at hearing on proposed EFH nuclear reactors

If the turnout for Tuesday's public meeting on expansion of the nuclear plant is any sign, protesters might not pose much of a threat to Energy Future Holdings' plans to build two new reactors.

Thousands Shiver In Europe's Big Chill

Temperatures plunged to record lows in Germany and heavy snow forced normally sunny Marseille to close its international airport as freezing winter weather gripped much of Europe on Wednesday.

US climate bill will move through House committee in 2009; Waxman

Despite conventional wisdom that climate change legislation might be hard to pass in the face of a weak economy, the US House of Representatives' new leader on energy issues said Thursday that he was "determined" to move a bill through committee in 2009.

US Long-Term Rates Fall for 10th Consecutive Week Setting Yet Another New Low

US Treasury Releases Congressional Report on Emergency Economic Stabilization Act

Weaker crude, European gas prices put pressure on Asian LNG

Weaker crude oil prices and falling European gas futures put pressure on Asian LNG Friday, with buyers talking of bids as low as $6-7/MMBtu and traders questioning when sellers would also move into single digits.

Winds of Change; Turbines to Produce Enough Electricity for 80,000 Homes

They aren't visible from the nearest highway, but starting at about 11 miles from the road, more than 100 turbines now dot 8,000 acres of Kenedy Ranch.

The turbines, each taller than the Statue of Liberty from base to tip, were motionless Wednesday afternoon, but soon the massive, gleaming blades will be spinning and generating enough electricity to power 80,000 homes, officials said at a ribbon cutting Wednesday.

January 6, 2009

Chattanooga; Signal builds wind farms

Wind power could provide 20 percent of the United States' electricity by 2030, according to a report from the U.S. Department of Energy, and a Chattanooga-based company is working to make that happen.

Climate Change Policies Failing, NASA Scientist Warns Obama

In a personal New Year appeal to Barack Obama, Prof James Hansen, head of NASA's Goddard Institute for Space Studies, said current approaches to deal with climate change are ineffectual. Hansen advocates a three-pronged attack on the climate problem. First, he wants a moratorium and phase-out of coal-fired power stations – which he calls "factories of death" – that do not incorporate carbon capture and storage. Second, he proposes a "carbon tax and 100% dividend": a mechanism for putting a price on carbon without raising money for government coffers.

Coal ash scrutiny returns; After a major Tenn. spill of toxic sludge, Duke Energy says inspections show no instability at its plants

An East Tennessee spill that covered 300 acres in toxic sludge has renewed scrutiny of coal ash, which accumulates by millions of tons at Charlotte-area power plants.

The ash -- coal-burning residue stored in open basins -- is laden with metals that in high concentrations can cause cancer and other health problems.

Coal on Front Burner

Running for office is one matter. Governing divergent interests is quite another. That's something in which the future Obama administration is now coming to grips.  The administration has painted itself green. But it is now trying to avoid doing so at the expense of the coal industry, which provides about 50 percent of the fuel to run this country's electric generation.

December Global Credit Quality Falls for the 16th Time

Kamakura Corporation announced today that the Kamakura index of troubled public companies showed strongly deteriorating global credit quality in December, the 16^th decline in credit quality in the last 17 months.

Energy Bills Expected to Top Alabama Legislature List

Gas prices have gone down, but the Alabama Legislature isn't letting up on a package of energy bills that will save energy, promote alternative energy and create jobs.

Dow 2008

The Dow was down 33.8% in 2008. To put this year's performance in perspective, today's chart illustrates the 15 worst calendar year performances of the Dow since its inception in 1896.

As today's chart illustrates, the Dow's performance in 2008 ranks as the third worst on record.

German Environmental Groups Step Up Pressure to Abandon Nuclear Power

Environmental organization Greenpeace has demanded to speed up the projected abandonment of nuclear energy.

High Hurdles for Obama's Green Stimulus

To Qualify in the Obama Administration's Stimulus Package, Projects Must Be Green, Shovel-Ready, Short-Term, and Job-Producing:

Hybrid car sales plummeted in November

U.S. hybrid car sales plummeted in November, falling faster than sales of conventional, gasoline-powered cars, an industry research group said.

Just as automakers were scrambling to turn their production over to smaller cars after gasoline prices spiked in the summer, the falling price of gasoline threatens to dampen new initiatives.

Iraq Earns $60 Billion From 2008 Crude Exports

Iraq earned about $60 billion from average crude oil sales of 1.85 million barrels per day (bpd) in 2008, a top Iraqi oil official said on Monday.

Shipments rose by about 200,000 bpd on the previous year and revenues were up about $20 billion, according to data from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries.

Missourians wanting to power their own homes are finding it difficult

That solar panel you were planning to install? The one that would let you power your own home and then sell the leftover electricity?

You might want to put a hold on that.

New California Cars Display Smog, Global Warming Scores

As of January 1, every 2009 model year and newer car built for sale in California will be required to carry a label that clearly ranks the vehicle's environmental impact. A vehicle's certification level can be found under the hood on the vehicle emissions control information label.

Nuclear waste in Stockton; It could happen if Fresno power plant idea pans out

Nuclear waste could be shipped through Stockton if a group of Fresno-area businessmen succeeds in its plan to build the state's first nuclear plant in more than two decades.

NY Fed Begins Purchasing Mortgage-Backed Securities

The Federal Reserve Bank of New York yesterday began purchasing fixed-rate mortgage-backed securities guaranteed by Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and Ginnie Mae.

PSC; Expand 'Clean Energy'; The Staff of the State's Public Service Commission Has Recommended Redefining Renewable Energy to Help Meet a Goal Set By Gov. Charlie Crist

If Florida wants to meet the governor's goal of having 20 percent of all electrical power come from renewable energy by 2020, the cheapest and easiest way to do it is to change the definition of renewable to include nuclear and clean coal.

This is one recommendation included in a 100-plus page report filed on Wednesday by the staff of the Public Service Commission.

Report Forecasts Sea Level Rise to Four feet by 2100

According to a new report "Synthesis and Assessment Product 3.4: Abrupt Climate Change" led by the U.S. Geological Survey, in light of recent ice sheet melting, global sea levels could rise as much as 4 feet by 2100.

Resident seeks ballot question on power plant

One month after successfully lobbying for a bylaw focusing on power plants at Special Town Meeting, Jeanne Landers has set her sights on inserting the issue into the upcoming town election.

Senate sets hearing on TVA coal-ash spill

A local environmentalist and frequent critic of the Tennessee Valley Authority will testify before Congress next week in a Senate hearing on the federal agency's coal ash spill at the Kingston Fossil Plant.

Solar Power Industry Remains Hot in California

Despite the turbulent economy, or perhaps because of it, solar energy remains a growth industry in California.

Soot tops NASA's climate blacklist

Governments could slow global warming dramatically, and buy time to avert disastrous climate change, by slashing emissions of one of humanity's most familiar pollutants soot according to NASA scientists.

Tribe to pursue wind energy project

The Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska will attempt to construct what may be the first wind energy project on American Indian soil in Kansas.

TVA; Pond had problems for decades

Leaks, seepage and water-logged walls plagued the fly ash retention pond at the Tennessee Valley Authority's Kingston Fossil Plant for years before the structure's Dec. 22 catastrophic failure, according to the agency's February 2008 inspection report.

U.S. Navy, Conservationists Reach $16 Million Sonar Settlement

The Navy acknowledged that this type of underwater sonar can be deadly to marine mammals, causing permanent injury and temporary deafness. Mid-frequency sonar can emit continuous sound above 235 decibels, an intensity roughly comparable to a rocket at blastoff.

U.S. will fail to meet biofuels mandate - EIA

The United States will fall well short of biofuels mandates on the uncertain development of next-generation fuels made from grasses and wood chips, the government's top energy forecasting agency said on Wednesday.

US 2009 gas prices seen weak as bad economy erodes demand

The US gas market outlook for this year "simply has all the makings of a bearish scenario: robust supply, weak demand and high inventories,"

US Long-Term Rates Fall for Ninth Consecutive Week Setting Another New Low

Freddie Mac (NYSE:FRE) last Friday released the results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey (PMMS) in which the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) averaged 5.10 percent with an average 0.7 point for the week ending December 31, 2008, downfrom last week when it averaged 5.14 percent.  Last year at this time, the 30-year FRM averaged 6.07 percent.  The 30-year FRM has not been lower since Freddie Mac started the Primary Mortgage Market Survey in 1971.

US weekly steel output ends 2008 near depression levels

The early 1980s were not good years for the US steel sector, and most recently, raw steel production in the US in the final week of 2008 dropped to levels not seen in the past 26 years...

Why Obama's Green Jobs Plan Might Work

President-elect Barack Obama wants to spend $150 billion over the next decade to promote energy from the sun, wind and other renewable sources as well as energy conservation. Plans include raising vehicle fuel-economy standards and subsidizing consumer purchases of plug-in hybrids. Obama wants to weatherize 1 million homes annually and upgrade the nation's creaky electrical grid.

Will Energy Savings Jump-Start the Economy?

If a major conservation initiative is included in the stimulus package, it might look something like a plan being pushed by the Alliance to Save Energy. Under such a plan, the government would commit just over $30 billion towards making the nation energy efficient. The money would be spent as follows

Win, Win, Win, Win, Win ..

For our long-term health, getting re-addicted to oil and gas guzzlers is one of the dumbest things we could do. That is why I believe the second biggest decision Barack Obama has to make — the first is deciding the size of the stimulus — is whether to increase the federal gasoline tax or impose an economy-wide carbon tax. Best I can tell, the Obama team has no intention of doing either at this time.

January 2, 2009

2008 Wrap-up; What Will A Financially Disastrous Year Mean for Renewables

This year was dominated by bad financial news — very bad financial news. Renewables have certainly had their fair share of troubles associated with the financial crisis; yet somehow they've seemed to fare better than most industries. It's still uncertain how a financial hangover will impact development in 2009, but most analysts agree that any global slowdown will be moderate, especially considering how drastic and far-reaching the credit crisis has been thus far.

Canadian First Nations to deliver message to Obama

Following the centuries-long tradition of delegations of American Indians traveling to nation’s capitol to meet the “Great White Father,” a group of Canadian indigenous leaders plan to seek the support from President-elect Barack Obama on oil and human rights issues.

Delivering the Green

This holiday season, as we all get lumps of coal in our financial stockings, there is more interest than ever in finding out what might be under the Energy/Carbon Christmas Tree. New carols echo: “Redo the Halls With Energy Infrastructure,” “Come Bearing Tidings of Climate Change Control.” There’s no want of things on our wish list: intelligent grids and sparkling renewables, affordable carbon sequestration, exquisite on-line efficiency management, energy efficient green buildings and . . . (oh yes): dollars,

DOE says may look to resume SPR fills after 2008 suspension ends

The US Department of Energy said it may restart buying crude oil for the nation's Strategic Petroleum Reserve next month as oil prices have plummeted, a department spokeswoman said Wednesday.

EIA ANALYSIS; US oil demand picks up as prices drop

US implied oil demand readings have improved on a four-week moving average and week-over-week, which may reflect a pickup as a result of the drop in retail prices or it may be seasonal, according to a Platts analysis of Energy Information Administration data released Wednesday.

Environmentalists seek nuke plant halt

Communities up and down the Savannah River and on both shores could be harmed by the 88 million gallons of water needed each day in running two proposed nuclear reactors near Waynesboro, an environmentalist group says.

Finding power in the pines

In as few as six years, much of the power supplied to towns such as Midway, Metter and Millen could be generated by pine trees.

Food needs 'fundamental rethink'

A sustainable global food system in the 21st Century needs to be built on a series of "new fundamentals", according to a leading food expert.

Groups press for tribe-friendly renewable energy policies

As more tribes explore and get involved in the renewable energy field, a network of tribal groups is asking President-elect Barack Obama to support tribally owned and operated renewable energy projects, along with economic development initiatives that could reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

Italy monitoring Russia-Ukraine gas row, but no problems so far

Italy is monitoring the ongoing dispute between Russia and Ukraine, which has seen Russia cut supplies to Ukraine since Thursday, Italy's economic development minister Claudio Scajola said in a statement late Thursday.

Metal Levels Found High in Tributary After Spill

An environmental advocacy group’s tests of river water and ash near the site of a huge coal ash spill in East Tennessee showed levels of arsenic, lead, chromium and other metals at 2 to 300 times higher than drinking water standards, the group said Thursday.

NASA Study Illustrates How Global Peak Oil Could Impact Climate

The burning of fossil fuels -- notably coal, oil and gas -- has accounted for about 80 percent of the rise of atmospheric carbon dioxide since the pre-industrial era. Now, NASA researchers have identified feasible emission scenarios that could keep carbon dioxide below levels that some scientists have called dangerous for climate.

Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 010109

Geomagnetic field activity was at quiet to unsettled levels. ACE solar wind measurements indicated Earth remained within a recurrent coronal hole high-speed stream. Solar wind velocities gradually decreased from 538 to 413 km/sec during the period.

Suits start to pile up against TVA over coal ash spill

At least one lawsuit has been filed against the Tennessee Valley Authority following the December 22 spill of 5.4 million cubic yards of coal ash at TVA's Kingston power plant in eastern Tennessee...

Surplus to pressure US, Canada gas prices through 2010

The gas market in North America likely will remain in an oversupplied state, creating downward pressure on prices, until at least 2010 before a sharp fall in rig counts helps bring the market back into balance, according to Stephen Smith, principal of Stephen Smith Energy Associates.

Texas wind farm to expand to 781.5 megawatts by 2009

A new project could claim the title of largest world´s wind farm and a couple more states could see renewable energy portfolio standards in 2009, according to the American Wind Energy Association.

E.ON Climate and Renewables North America Inc. plans to expand its Roscoe, Texas, wind farm to 781.5 megawatts by mid-2009...

The big melt; 2 trillion tons of ice since 2003

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.

More than half of the loss of landlocked ice in the past five years has occurred in Greenland...

The Elephant's Great Thirst

This is a story about a nation with a voracious appetite for energy.

This country is one of the world’s top energy consumers. Given its modest supply of indigenous resources, it must satisfy its energy hunger abroad. This billion-person nation presently imports about two-thirds of its oil -- a number projected to rise to 90 percent by 2030.

UNEP; 2008 Was The Year of Living Dangerously

Financial damage and loss of life caused by climate-related natural disasters made 2008 one of the most devastating years on record, according to the United Nations Environment Programme's year-end assessment.

US Fed Announces Details of Program to Purchase Mortgage-Backed Securities

The Federal Reserve on Tuesday announced that it expects to begin operations in early January under the previously announced program to purchase mortgage-backed securities (MBS) and that it has selected private investment managers to act as its agents in implementing the program.

Utilities, customers pinched

It's getting harder for people to pay their utility bills this year.

Data compiled by the state Public Service Commission show that gas and electric utility customers are increasingly falling behind on their bills, and the number of first-time delinquencies is also rising.