President Bush Plans to Temporarily Ease Pollution Regulations 04/25/2006
As gas prices surge, President Bush told the Renewable Fuels Association he will suspend shipments to the nation's Strategic Petroleum Reserve, a stockpile intended for disruptions of energy supplies. According to Bush, the suspension will increase supply in an attempt to hold down oil prices. The president also said he will temporarily relax regulations that require the use of cleaner-burning fuel additives to cut down on summertime pollution.
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Reduce Energy Use While Reducing Taxes 04/25/2006
Have you been waiting for a financial reason to be energy-efficient? If so, your time has come. The Energy Policy Act of 2005 offers the general public federal tax credits for buying energy-efficient products, such as exterior windows and doors, insulation, heat pumps, furnaces, central air conditioners, water heaters and roofing. These products can receive a tax credit of up to $500. Tax credits will be in effect through 2007 and possibly be renewed after this date. Improvements must be made between Jan 1, 2006 and Dec 31, 2007.
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Region 8: State Wind Working Groups facilitate wind energy growth 04/24/2006
Five of six Region 8 states have Wind Powering America Wind Working Groups that offer valuable forums to examine issues, gather stakeholders to develop solutions, and provide an effective networking tool. They can be instrumental in overcoming initial market barriers to wind energy and initiating the first projects. The lessons learned from the experiences of such a group provide valuable insight to renewable energy technology outreach and acceptance in other states. The Groups are convened by each state's energy program.
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DOE's Tribal Energy Program is offering summer internships 04/05/2006
DOE's Tribal Energy Program is offering summer internships to Native American students who are interested in renewable energy and who are currently college upper-classmen or graduate students. To be considered for the 2006 summer program applications must be received by February 24, 2006.
For eligibility requirements and how to apply, please see the application "Featured" at www.eere.energy.gov/tribalenergy or contact Sandra K. Begay-Campbell, Sandia National Laboratories at (505) 844-5418 or skbegay@sandia.gov
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MT: Funds for sustainability projects 04/05/2006
Montana's Alternative Energy Resources Organization (AERO) is offering grants of up to $800 for groups to work together on projects ranging from sustainable on-farm research and demonstration to renewable energy or food security issues. The Community Grants applicants must be a group of at least four participants who work together on a project in Montana.
Proposals are due April 21, 2006.
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Tribal Pollution Prevention events, workshops and conferences 04/05/2006
Tribal Pollution Prevention events, workshops and conferences are featured on the Peaks to Prairies events listing.
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CO: BLM rejects Exxon Mobil lease application 03/31/2006
The Bureau of Land Management has rejected Exxon Mobil's application for an oil shale research project in western Colorado, citing concerns about the economic viability of the proposal, and potential wastage of another mineral on the site. The proposed site has deposits of nahcolite, a mineral similar to baking soda, sometimes used in the production of human and animal food, cleaning products, fire extinguishers and pharmaceuticals. Because nahcolite is marketable, BLM rules do not allow it to be destroyed in the pursuit of another mineral. Four other companies are still in the running for the BLM program, which is offering leases on federal land in Colorado and Utah to test technologies to extract oil from shale. Geologists estimate that a trillion barrels of oil may be locked in shale across the West.
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CO: Xcel Energy plans solar power plant 03/31/2006
Xcel Energy, headquarted in Minneapolis, plans to build the first solar-powered generating plant in the southern part of Colorado. The photovoltaic array will require only a couple of people to operate, produce no air emissions and use no water on site. It will power 1,800 homes at a cost of $60 million to build. In 2004, 66.2% of Xcel's power production came from coal.
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CO: Using coal to reduce pollution? 03/30/2006
Denver-based Rentech Inc. expects to be first in the U.S. to utilize a unique technology that can squeeze ultraclean diesel, naphtha and jet fuel out of Colorado's abundant coal. The Fischer- Tropsch reaction has been used only in South Africa to convert gas derived from coal to produce diesel. Coal is relatively inexpensive compared to petroleum, and though it takes more energy to produce the Fischer-Tropsch fuel from coal than the energy derived from it, the same is true of petroleum, and even more so of ethanol. When ethanol & biodiesel are derived from energy intensive and soil-degrading crops such as corn or soybeans, their environmental impacts can be many times worse than turning coal to liquids. Producing one gallon of ethanol requires 1,700 gallons of water and generates 12 gallons of waste. Rentech plans to switch the fuel source of an existing nitrogen fertilizer plant in Illinois to coal by 2009. Nitrogen fertilizers are typically produced from natural gas, a high quality energy source less available than coal. The plant will use the Fischer-Tropsch technology to produce 1,750 barrels of fuel per day, 24 megawatts of electricity and 920 tons per day of ammonia fertilizer, all from coal.
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CO: NREL to develop off-shore wind energy with G.E. 03/14/2006
Colorado's National Renewable Energy Laboratory (U.S. Dept. of Energy) has signed a four-year, $27 million contract with General Electric to develop an advanced offshore wind turbine. This contract should result in improved technology and reduced costs for off-shore wind power generation. This is one of the largest public-private initiatives in NREL's nearly 30-year history.
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CO: Ethanol turning a corporate corner 02/28/2006
Changing federal energy regulations and the rising oil prices are drawing substantial new private investment into ethanol plants, marking a shift from farmer-owned co-ops. According to the Renewable Fuels Association trade group, only six of 42 new ethanol plants under construction nationwide are farmer-owned. In Colorado, producing ethanol plants include Coors, Golden (1.5 million gallons a year, set to double); and Sterling Ethanol (50 million gallons a year). Under construction and planning are Front Range Energy, Windsor; Sun Energy, Walsh; Panda Energy, Yuma; Sterling Ethanol, Yuma.
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CO: National leader in buildings with superior energy and environmental performance
02/16/2006
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency welcomed 21 Colorado buildings to the 2005 Class of ENERGY STAR-Qualified Buildings, bringing Colorados total to 135 facilities recognized for superior energy and environmental performance. Only four states -- California, Texas, North Carolina and Virginia -- have more ENERGY STAR buildings than Colorado. Nationwide in 2005, more than 2,500 ENERGY STAR office buildings, schools, hospitals and public buildings are saving an estimated $349 million annually in energy bills and preventing 1.8 billion pounds of greenhouse gas emissions, equivalent to the emissions from 540,000 vehicles. Commercial buildings account for nearly 20% of greenhouse gas emissions.
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UT: Student receives President's Environmental Youth Award 02/16/2006
Brent Singleton, an Ogden high school senior and an avid design engineer and race enthusiast, was awarded EPA's prestigious President's Environmental Youth Award for advancing the development of high-performance electric vehicles and raising awareness about alternative fuels and the ecological value of the Bonneville Salt Flats.
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UT: Congressional delegates protect a wilderness area 02/15/2006
A 55-mile stretch of desert in the Cedar Mountains of Utah was designated by Utahs Congressional Delegation as a federally protected wilderness area. The ruling will make it more difficult for the Goshute Indians to partner with Private Fuel Storage, a company interested in temporarily storing nuclear waste in the tribes portion of Skull Valley. The designated 100,000 acres is in close proximity to a stretch of salt flats that already hold a substantial amount of industrial waste, a magnesium plant, and an incinerator used by the army to destroy a stockpile of chemical agents. The Air Force uses Skull Valley as a flight path and some have argued that the possibility of a jet crashing into a steel cask made the location too dangerous for a nuclear waste site. The congressional delegation stood behind the wilderness protection measure as a means to block the area from becoming an open-air nuclear-waste dump. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission issued a license for the Private Fuel Storage project recently, but Utah is seeking to overturn the decision through a federal appeals court.
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General Motors goes for hybrids 02/06/2006
General Motors Corporation will put $118 million into its White Marsh transmission plant, creating 87 jobs and progressively upgrading the plant to make hybrid transmissions. The plant now builds automatic transmissions for trucks, but by early next year it will make transmissions for fuel-efficient hybrid trucks. GM said the new hybrid system would first be installed in the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon models, two of the fleet's larger SUVs. According to GM, these models would be 25 percent more fuel efficient than their non-hybrid counterparts.
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Colorado: Set to provide renewable energy leadership 02/02/2006
On January 11, 2006, more than 500 people attended a summit on Colorado's role in the future of renewable energy. U.S. Sen. Ken Salazar (D-CO) and the Community College of Denver sponsored the summit. A big part of the state's advantage is the existence of the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Golden. The experts also focused on the potential for Colorado's farmers to produce biofuels and on Amendment 37 passed by voters in November 2004. It requires utilities to get a portion of their electricity from the sun, wind, or plant or animal waste. Salazar and his staff will prepare a report on the summit and policy recommendations to Congress.
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Colorado Rep. Praises Encana Oil and Gas for Environmental Efforts, But Voices Need for Renewable Energy 01/18/2006
U.S. Rep John Salazar praised Encana for the special measures it has put forth to protect wildlife, air and water from its natural gas development activities. Its very impressive what theyre doing, but I still think we need to find ways to minimize the footprint. Salazar said Congress will discuss gas development related issues at the end of the month. EnCana Director of Regulatory and Governmental Affairs David Petrie said the companys goal in all its operations is to get the gas out of the ground and leave the area better than we found it at the end of the day. Environmental efforts included studies of mule deer and elk winter ranges, greater sage grouse habitat, Colorado River cutthroat trout, raptors and monitoring of air and water quality. EnCana also uses underground pipelines to transport water, reducing the amount of truck trips by about 600 per well and diminishing the impact of drilling.
The biggest challenge in this area will be to make sure we responsibly develop our natural resources, which has a positive economic impact on the communities around here, but lessen the environmental impact, Salazar said. Youll never get rid of that, which is another reason I will continue to push for renewable energy.
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Six of the World's Largest Polluters Meet to Discuss Cutting Emissions 01/18/2006
In a two-day climate conference last week, representatives of the world's largest polluting countries met to discuss measures for developing cleaner, more efficient technologies in an effort to reduce greenhouse gases. The Asia Pacific Partnership on Clean Development and Climate brought together senior ministers from the United States, Australia, Japan, China, South Korea and India, as well as executives from several energy businesses.
According to environmentalists, the meeting focused too much on untried technologies to reduce emissions, and not enough on renewable energy.
Representatives also insisted that industry leaders will voluntarily cut emission standards. Boston University Prof. Anthony Patt, at BU's Center for Energy and Environmental Studies, said voluntary compliance will fail. "It is clear that voluntary agreements to reduce emissions, even when coupled with government subsidies to develop new technologies, accomplish very little," Patt said.
Accounting for 45 percent of the world's population, the attending countries produce almost half of the world's gross domestic product, energy consumption and global greenhouse gas emissions, the Australian government said. At a U.N. global warming conference in Canada last month, the United States declined to join an agreement signed by more than 150 nations to open talks on mandatory post-2012 reductions in greenhouse gases.
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Tribal P2: Indigenous People Take a Stand on Global Warming 01/17/2006
The U.N. conference on global warming found American Indians, Alaska Natives and the First Nations of Canada standing in solidarity with indigenous peoples throughout the world during the U.N. conference on global warming.
The Tiohtia:ke Declaration reaffirmed the positions of indigenous peoples who have participated in U.N. climate conferences since the late 1990s. It reads, "the burning of oil, gas and coal as fossil fuels is the primary source of human-induced climate change. Indigenous Peoples have experienced systematic and repeated violations by oil, gas, mining and energy industries infringing on our inherent right to protect our traditional lands." The declaration was endorsed by most indigenous groups at the U.N. meeting.
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Walgreens Goes Solar 01/17/2006
Walgreens has teamed up with ImaginIt Inc., a Denver-based clean energy solutions company, to install solar electric systems in 112 stores and two distribution centers by early 2006. The new systems will produce more than 13.8 million kilowatt-hours per year, replacing the equivalent of more than 22 million gallons of gas and avoiding hundreds of tons of carbon dioxide emissions. The buildings, in both California and New Jersey, will have solar roof tiles enabling each facility to generate between 20% and 50% of its own electricity on site. This project will be the largest solar project ever completed in the United States.
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Colorado: Xcel Energy Set to Launch Solar Rebate Program 01/03/2006
Colorados Amendment 37, passed in 2004, requires Colorado utilities with 40,000 or more customers to generate or purchase a percentage of their electricity from renewable sources to reach a level of 10% renewables by 2015. Of the electricity generated each year from renewable sources, at least 4% must come from solar technologies. At least one-half of this percentage must come from solar systems located on-site at customers facilities. Under the initiative, utilities are required to offer customers a minimum rebate of $2.00/watt of installed solar electric capacity and establish a net metering program. Xcel Energys Solar Rebate Program, set to begin 1/13/06, provides up to a $4.50-per-watt (DC) incentive.
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TOOL: Database of State Incentives for Renewable Energy 01/03/2006
This is a comprehensive source of information on state, local, utility, and selected federal incentives that promote renewable energy. The web site was established in 1995,as an ongoing project of the Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC), funded by the U.S. Department of Energy and managed by the North Carolina Solar Center.
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Colorado: Renewable Energy Laboratory to Lose 10% of its Budget 12/28/2005
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), part of the Department of Energy based in Golden, Colorado, plans to lay off as many as 100 scientists and researchers, or 11 percent of its total staff due to recent budget cuts by Congress. In fiscal 2006, Congress cut the Department of Energy's budget for all renewable energy programs by more than 35 percent. NREL does research in wind, biomass, solar and hydrogen technologies.
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Colorado: Waste Water from Energy Development May Be a Resource 12/28/2005
The state's oil and gas wells pump up millions of gallons of water a day. Energy companies, state and federal agencies and potential users are studying the feasibility of turning that wasted water into a new resource. For example, Petroglyph Operating, a Kansas-based company that's tapping coal-bed methane deposits produces up to 6.5 million gallons of water each day and wants to find a good use for it. Currently, the water flows into the Cucharas River under a permit from the Colorado Water Quality Control Division. Most of the water from energy development isn't near cities or towns, so pipeline costs and treatment expenses haven't made it an attractive water source. Some of the water from oil and gas drilling is almost good enough to drink, but up to 90% would require treatment before use.
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New Tool: A Resource List for Wind-Powered Electric Systems for Homes, Farms, and Ranches 12/28/2005
The National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service and ATTRA have published a review of print publications and online resources that offer both overview and in-depth information on siting, installing and operating wind-power electrical generation systems. Most resources listed are relevant to small-scale systems.
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Montana, Wyoming Vie for Futuristic, Low-Emission Coal Power Plant 12/07/2005
Montana, Wyoming are among the states expected to intensify their efforts to land a futuristic, $1 billion power plant after the Energy Department and an international group of energy companies formally agreed to build the low-emission project known as FutureGen. The plant that will turn coal into electricity and hydrogen while capturing pollutants, including carbon dioxide. Proponents expect it to serve as a prototype for future emissions-free power plants.
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Alaska Native Village Goes Green 12/06/2005
The fall 2005 issue of the magazine "Rural Voices" features a story about the Alaska village of Little Diomede. The village, with the help of the Rural Alaska Community Action Program (RuRALCAP), leveraged Bureau of Indian Affairs funds to rehabilitate homes in an energy-efficient manner. At Little Diomede, the villages housing was in dire condition and the traditional council had just voted, with great sadness, to begin relocating the villagers to the mainland. Relocation would mean not only physically uprooting families, but abandoning centuries of seafaring subsistence culture that relies on the harvesting of migratory birds and marine mammals. RurAL CAP assembled funding to rehabilitate every occupied home on the island, increasing energy efficiency through insulation, new windows, siding, and installation of high efficiency water heaters and oil stoves. In addition, durable materials replaced dilapidated structural elements, and interior mold and condensation issues were addressed. Local residents performed all the work under supervision of a RurAL CAP foreman. Fuel sales at the village store were sharply reduced, with some residents reporting a 50% reduction in fuel consumption. Family health also improved.
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Brewing Company Releases Sustainability Report 12/06/2005
Belgium-based brewing company InBev, maker of Beck's and Stella Artois beers, recently released its first Global Citizenship Report. The report documents the company's reductions in water use, energy use, and carbon dioxide emissions as well as its improvements in wastewater quality and volume. Read the InBev Global Citizenship Report .
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Colorado: Customers to Start Paying for Solar & Wind Energy Development 12/06/2005
Xcel Energy customers in Colorado likely will pay 63 cents more a month on average for electricity beginning in January. The money will finance a requirement for more solar and wind energy, approved by voters in 2004. The amendment directed Colorado's top seven utilities to obtain a portion of their electricity from the sun, wind, and plant and animal waste. Utilities must get up to 10 percent of their electricity from renewable sources by 2015, with at least 4 percent from solar generators.
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Early-Birds Registration Open for Global Sustainability Conference 12/06/2005
December 15 is the early-bird deadline to register for the 9th Bienniel Trade Fair and Conference on Business and the Environment scheduled for March 19-31 in Vancouver, Canada. The conference is aimed at corporate executives, government policy makers, environmental industry executives, international agency representatives, urban leaders and design professionals, and financial executives, with themes of corporate sustainability, energy and the environment, finance sustainability, and building better cities.
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New Tool: Manufactured Homes - Saving Money by Saving Energy 12/06/2005
Many lower-income residents in western states live in manufactured or mobile homes. A recent publication from U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) presents practical, energy-saving tips, techniques, and recommendations specifically for these types of structures. The Manufactured Housing Research Alliance, in cooperation with HUD and the Partnership for Advancing Technology in Housing, prepared this guide for publication. The guide is available online or in hard copy.
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Colorado State University Generates Electricity from Waste Heat 11/29/2005
The heating plant at Colorado State University's Fort Collins campus has been converted to a combined heat and power plant with the addition of an 800-kilowatt steam turbine generator. The steam turbine produces electric power and saves on utility bills by using energy that would otherwise be wasted. The upgraded system cost the university $885,000 and is expected to pay for itself in a little over three years. Over a 20-year period, Colorado State expects to save $7 million in utility expenses. The electricity savings will reduce carbon dioxide emissions by more than 2,600 tons each year.
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Colorado: Renewable Energy Summit Launches New Era of Energy for Tribes 11/28/2005
At the first Native Renewables Energy Summit in Denver, Alaska Natives and American Indian representatives across the U.S. and Canada met to discuss the potential of renewable energy to protect the environment and reap economic benefits. The summit showcased renewable energy projects already in the works on tribal lands, and highlighted climate change concerns that tribal communities and cities share.
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EPA Soliciting Grant Proposals for Region 8 Projects 11/28/2005
Region 8 of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is requesting proposals for the Fiscal Year 2006 Regional Priorities Grant Program. This competitive process solicits project proposals that will achieve measurable environmental and public health results within the priority areas of energy, agriculture, and enhancing capacity to provide public health and environmental protection in Region 8 states and Tribal lands. EPA Region 8 serves Colorado, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, Wyoming and 27 Tribal nations. Proposals are due by December 20, 2005. View the Request for Proposals.
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Native Renewable Energy Summit Brings City, Tribal Reps Together 11/23/2005
City and Tribal representatives met in Denver November 15-17 for the Native Renewable Energy Summit. The summit was designed to elicit workable plans for tribe and city collaboration. Mayors from 180 cities across the country have signed an agreement to participate in the Kyoto Protocol, even though the federal government is not a party to that international agreement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions worldwide. So far, three cities - Boulder, Colo., Aspen, Colo. and Seattle - are exploring partnerships with tribes.
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Colorado: Wind Power Company Now Has Waiting List for Customers 11/22/2005
Holy Cross Energy sold the last of its wind energy to customers in Colorado's Roaring Fork and Eagle valleys. The company now maintains a waiting list for customers who want to sign up for its wind power program.
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Wyoming: Coal-Fire Power Plants Will Have to Reduce Emissions to Sell to California 11/22/2005
Energy officials who want to sell power to California's energy consumers with cheap coal-fired electrical generation from Wyoming may be forced to take a cleaner approach. The California Energy Commission on Monday unanimously approved the Integrated Energy Policy Report, which includes new greenhouse gas performance standards. The policy restricts future purchases of out-of-state coal-based power to only those facilities that can prevent their global warming pollution from entering the air.
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Colorado: High School Teacher Honored for Introducing Renewable Energy Curriculum 11/18/2005
Matthew Brown, technology teacher at Colorado's Lakewood High School, started a new course this year that introduces students to the world of renewable energy and energy efficient technologies. The course has earned Brown this year's Renewable Energy Teacher Award from the U.S. Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Laboratory's (NREL). This award recognizes high school teachers who demonstrate exemplary science teaching in renewable energy and energy efficiency. Brown's class, "Introduction to Alternative and Renewable Energy," includes energy efficiency, solar, wind, hydrogen, biomass, geothermal, hydroelectric and nuclear energy.
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Colorado: Fort Collins Ranked Tops for Saving Energy 11/15/2005
Fort Collins, Colorado, is one of the nation's best cities at promoting renewable energy and energy efficiency, according to a new Sierra Club report. The city's energy programs saved residents money, reduced future energy cost risks, created a "more livable environment," complied with air standards and created economic benefits, according to the Sierra Club. The report lauded Fort Collins for its use of wind power, its programs offering no-interest loans for energy-efficient home improvements and building construction, and its city policy aimed at reducing energy consumption and increasing renewable energy use. Fort Collins joins Austin, Texas, Chicago and Portland, Oregon as examples of the nation's most sustainable-minded cities. View the Sierra Club Report (pdf).
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Wyoming: New Wind Turbine Design May Generate More Energy 11/08/2005
High winds are sweet music to a Wyoming wind energy company, which says its new vertical wind turbine is much more efficient than traditional propeller designs. The design generates up to 80 percent more power than conventional turbines from the same wind, according to the company. In addition, the blades turn more slowly than on traditional models, meaning the turbines are less noisy and less dangerous to birds, the company said. And since they stand no taller than 96 feet, the turbines can be used in industrial areas where taller propeller-driven models are not allowed.
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North Dakota: Near-Zero-Emission Coal-Fired Power Becoming a Reality 11/01/2005
The Energy & Environmental Research Center (EERC) at the University of North Dakota announced major achievements in the development of a zero-emission coal-fired power plant. The EERC is currently demonstrating a new system that can be retrofitted into power plants to capture over 99.99% of fine particulates and reduce mercury and greenhouse gases. "The technical hurdles are behind us, and it is just a matter of time before the system economically becomes reality," said EERC Director Gerald Groenewold. The system, called Advanced HybridTM, is currently being demonstrated at Otter Tail Power Company's Big Stone Power Plant in Milbank, South Dakota, and the Sacci Cement Company in Cagnano, Italy.
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Organizations Recognized in Energy Star Commercial Building Challenge 11/01/2005
Schools, hotels, banks, and real estate companies were among the 18 organizations the Environmental Protection Agency recognized for achieving significant energy savings and leading their fields in responding to the agency's Energy Star Building Challenge.
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Native Renewable Energy Summit November 15-17 10/31/2005
This summit, held in Denver, Colorado, will bring together tribal leaders, local leaders and state officials to promote renewable energy and Native Renewables projects both in capital markets and for community development. With Green Tags and Renewable Energy Credits, Native Renewables projects can generate immediate financial rewards to revitalize Native economies.
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Wal-Mart's New Renewable Energy Plan Could Spur Other Large Companies to Follow 10/28/2005
Wal-Mart unveiled a new environmental plan based around renewable energy and energy-efficienty. The company announced plans is to get 100 percent of its energy from renewable sources; cut energy use in stores by 30 percent, cut fuel consumption in its truck fleet by 25 percent over three years - and continue to improve, doubling mileage over a decade. Some experts say that the behemoth corporation's move to green power could lead other companies to follow. In related news, Wal-Mart also recently announced it was switching to corn-based plastics for some of its packaging.
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Voluntary Green Power Purchases Up 1000 Percent in Five Years 10/27/2005
U.S. renewable energy supported by voluntary use rather than regulatory requirements is now over 2200 megawatts (MW) up more than 1000 percent in just five years, according to a new report from the U.S. Department of Energy. While residential use has more than doubled, the report states that large businesses, government and institutions are the biggest cause of the increase.
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Sustainable Energy Coalition Issues "Factoid" Series on Potential of Renewable Energy 10/26/2005
The Sustainable Energy Coalition, currently consisting of 79 national business, environmental, consumer, and energy policy organizations, has begun issuing monthly "factoids" to document the potential of renewable energy and energy efficient technologies to displace fossil fuels and nuclear power. These "factoids" derive from recent studies and reports issued by a wide variety of academic, governmental, business, and non-profit organizations that examine the near and mid-term potential of sustainable energy technologies. The first five factoids:
Factoid #1 Biomass could provide 15 percent of U.S. energy demand by 2030.
Factoid #2 Annual installations of rooftop photovoltaics could power hundreds of thousands of homes and businesses by 2010.
Factoid #3 Wind power could generate more than enough sustainable electricity to meet global energy needs.
Factoid #4 Biomass could provide at least 12 percent of California's electricity needs
Factoid #5 Untapped geothermal resources could provide 25,000 MW of electrical generating capacity.
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Tribal Renewable Energy Subsidies 10/25/2005
Do you have a renewable energy generation facility? If so, you may be eligible for financial incentive payments of 1.5 cents per kilowatt-hour for the first ten year period of operation for electricity produced and sold. The Department of Energys Renewable Energy Production Incentive (REPI) makes payments depending on Congressional appropriations each year. Eligible electric production facilities are those owned by State and local government entities (such as municipal utilities), not-for-profit electric cooperatives that started operations between October 1, 1993 and September 30, 2003, and beginning with the Energy Policy Act of 2005 Indian tribal governments or subdivisions thereof and Native Corporations. The point of contact for questions concerning REPI policy issues and the availability of appropriations for the REPI program is Dan Beckley . The point of contact on REPI implementation (facility qualifications, applications, and payments) is Christine Carter .
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School Associations Aim to Reduce School Energy Costs Through Energy Star Challenge 10/20/2005
Ten associations representing state school boards, superintendents, principals, facility planners, architects, parents, and teachers are joining the Environmental Protection Agency's Energy Star Challenge to solve energy cost woes in K-12 schools. The nation's 17,000 K-12 schools currently spend $1.3 billion on winter heating bills. This figure may rise nearly 40 percent this year - an equivalent of more than 10,000 teacher salaries. Energy-efficiency measures can save schools up to 30 percent on their energy bills.
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Energy Savings Boost Companies onto List of Best Workplaces for Commuters 10/19/2005
Intel, QUALCOMM, and Oracle lead the 2nd annual list of Best Workplaces for Commuters from the Fortune 500 Companies. The companies were recognized for their role in offering excellent commuter benefits that reduce fuel consumption, vehicle emissions and traffic congestion across the country.
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Colorado: Wind Energy to be Stored as Hydrogen Fuel 10/18/2005
A new pilot program will store unused energy created by wind turbines as hydrogen fuel. The idea is to increase the efficiency of wind generation by using it during off-peak hours to produce hydrogen. The hydrogen would be stored, then used later to produce electricity during periods of peak demand. The $1.75 million pilot program will be formally launched Wednesday, October 19 at a Denver forum titled "New Energy Technologies for Coloradans," an event that is part of Colorado Tech Week.
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Johnson Controls Offers Sustainability Education Program for Government and Businesses 10/17/2005
Johnson Controls has launched the Sustainable Energy Education & Communications (SEEC) employee training and communications program. The program, available to businesses and government agencies, was designed to help save money by reducing energy and water. SEEC includes a 10-module series of lessons that show how employees can find financial, environmental and social benefits at work and home. Johnson Controls says that companies have embraced sustainability because they want to contain costs, increase employee productivity, protect the environment, strengthen community ties and enhance their corporate or organizational image.
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Utah: New Ski Area Development Would Add 163,000 Homes to Valley, May Incorporate Green Energy 10/14/2005
A huge development plan for Salt Lake County would create the closest ski area in the world to an international airport and add 500,000 residents to Salt Lake County. The mixed-use development may be patterned after another development that incorporates energy-efficient features.
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Colorado: Wind Power Cheaper Than Conventional Electricity 10/12/2005
Higher natural-gas prices are driving up the cost of conventional electricity and making Xcel Energy's voluntary wind-generated electricity purchase plan a better deal for the pocketbook in addition to the environment. Customers who have been paying as much as $6 more per month for wind-generated "green power" will soon pay up to $10 less than their neighbors who use conventionally generated electricity. 29,000 Coloradoans currently participate in Windsource program.
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Colorado: Ethanol Plant to be Powered by Cattle Manure 10/11/2005
Colorado is one of three states included in a new plan to power ethanol plants with cattle manure. Panda Energy, owner of facilities in Colorado, Kansas and Texas, will use three billion pounds of cattle manure a year to to produce ethanol that will be blended with gasoline to produce cleaner fuel for vehicles. Where an 85% blend of ethanol with gasoline (E85) is available, motorists are finding that it is costing an average 30 cents per gallon less than regular unleaded gasoline. The company says the biofuel will save 1,000 barrels of oil per day. The ethanol produced in the Kansas plant alone will replace the need for 100 million gallons of gasoline each year.
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Department of Energy Kicks of Energy Efficiency Campaign 10/11/2005
The Department of Energy launched a national campaign urging consumers to use energy more efficiently. The "Easy Ways to Save Energy" campaign is designed to improve energy efficiency and conservation amid rising winter costs. The campaign includes the unveiling of a new mascot, the "Energy Hog," to promote energy conservation.
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Western Governors Consider Renewable Energy Future 10/11/2005
The Western Governors Association's Clean and Diversified Energy Advisory Committee recently drafted a roadmap for what could be the West's gradual transition from fossil-fuel to renewable energy economy. The Clean and Diversified Energy Advisory Committee divided the work into eight separate task forces: advanced natural gas, biomass, clean coal, energy efficiency, geothermal, solar and transmission. The Clean and Diversified Energy Advisory Committee will look at how the Western states can achieve an additional 30,000 megawatts of renewable energy in the West by 2015. One recommendation is to encourage states to pass "renewable portfolio standards," which require utilities to offer a certain portion of electricity derived from renewable sources. Wyoming is one of three states in the West that have not established a renewable portfolio standard.
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EPA Reduces Energy Consumption in its Buildings 10/10/2005
In response to the President Bush's recent directive to all federal agencies on energy conservation, EPA is taking immediate actions to conserve natural gas, electricity, gasoline and diesel fuel in all its DC buildings. The measures include removing excess lighting, turning off fountains, and lowering thermostats.
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Gas Prices Fuel Surge in Bicycle Sales 10/06/2005
Increased gasoline prices are causing many Americans to hop on their bicycles, leading to the biggest surge in bike sales in over three decades.
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IBM Reduces CO2 Emissions, Saves Money through Climate Savers Program 10/04/2005
World Wildlife Fund is working with companies through its Climate Savers Program to reduce CO2 emissions by improving energy efficiency and utilizing renewable energy sources. The World Wildlife Fund and the Center for Energy and Climate Solutions help companies develop strategic climate and energy management plans, and then promote these efforts to the public. An early participant, computer industry leader IBM has reduced CO2 emissions by more than 1.28 million tons and saved $115 million in lowered energy costs since 1998.
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New Federal Website Lists Funding Sources for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy 09/26/2005
The Department of Energy's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) has launched a new Web site that lists opportunities for financial assistance. The site lists current and past solicitations from EERE and provides specific funding information for business, industry, and universities, as well as consumers, federal energy managers, inventors, states, and tribes. In fiscal year 2004 alone, You can visit the new website at www.eere.energy.gov/financing/.
Small businesses may want to look for a new solicitation entitled Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer programs. The solicitation covers renewable energy sources, biofuels, solid-state lighting, energy-efficient membranes, lightweight materials for vehicles, electric energy storage for vehicles, and advanced motors, power electronics, sensors, and controls, and more.
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NEW TOOL- Roadmap to Improving Energy Efficiency in Water and Wastewater Industry 09/26/2005
The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE)recently released a roadmap report on improving energy in the municipal water and wastewater industry. This report is a follow-up to a July 2004 workshop that brought together fifty experts in water, wastewater, and energy. Water and wastewater treatment and distribution in the United States accounts for approximately 1.4 percent of the total national electricity consumption and costs over $4 billion annually. However, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's ENERGY STAR® program, municipalities can achieve a 10 percent savings in energy by adopting readily available energy efficient practices. The report is available online at http://aceee.org/pubs/IE054.htm.
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Coalbed Methane Development Proposed on Northern Cheyenne Reservation 09/14/2005
The Association for the Advancement of Indigenous Resources says that coalbed methane development should be considered on the Northern Cheyenne reservation. The organization was recently formed to educate tribal members about coalbed methane, according to Terry Beartusk, the organization's director. There is money to be made with development that is responsible, reasonable and sensitive to the concerns of tribal members, Beartusk said. Coalbed methane development has expanded in the Wyoming portion of the Powder River Basin and has been the focus of intense scrutiny in southeastern Montana in recent years. The group is surveying locals about their concerns with coalbed methane and plans on hosting feasts in each district on the reservation to provide information. In particular, the group plans to address concerns about air quality, water quality, royalties and possible damage to surface lands.
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Montana: Environmental Group, Development Firm Strike Deal on Coalbed Methane 09/14/2005
An environmental group and energy development firm have reached an agreement to let coalbed methane production in a southeast Montana project continue, with restrictions on land disturbance and water disposal. The agreement between the Northern Plains Resource Council and Fidelity Energy and Production Co. affects an order U.S. Magistrate Richard Anderson issued earlier that halted the Tongue River-Badger Hills Project near Decker pending further environmental study. A decision by Anderson in a related study to allow federal leases in a portion of southern Montana on an interim basis is being appealed by both the environmental group and the Northern Cheyenne. The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals is set to hear arguments in the matter Thursday in Seattle.
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National Bioenergy Center Receives Technology Development Awards 09/14/2005
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory's National Bioenergy Center was honored with two "Notable Technology Development" Awards. The first award recognizes Clean Fractionation, an innovative technology that separates organic materials such as corn, wheat, oat hulls, and waste from cotton, and other lignocellulosic material, into products such as lignin, cellulose and dissolved sugars that can be used to produce chemical products for a variety of industries such as pulp and paper, chemical, food, and packaging. The second awards was for developing key innovations to cultivate the world's first fully integrated "biorefinery." Biorefineries can produce a range of fuels, chemicals, and value-added products from a variety of low-cost plant-material or biomass feedstocks.
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Senate Rejects Challenge to EPA Mercury Rules 09/14/2005
The Senate rejected a challenge to Environmental Protection Agency rules that give power plants flexibility in how they lower mercury emissions. When the EPA adopted the rules, it said they went as far as possible without imposing excessive costs to companies and their customers. Sen. Jim Jeffords, I-Vt., countered It is definitely unhealthy for Americans living downwind of coal-fired power plants, especially mothers and their soon-to-be-born children, he said.
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Environmental Investment Firm Offers $25 Million for Renewables, Efficient Projects 09/13/2005
RNK Capital LLC, a manager of environmental investments, announced plans to invest $25 million in the U.S. renewable energy and energy efficiency market and is requesting proposals. The company hopes to receive offers for renewable energy and energy efficiency projects that will result in renewable energy credits, sulfur dioxide emissions allowances, nitrous oxide emissions allowances, or other environmental credits.
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Montana: Energy Symposium To Address Energy Issues and Environmental Concerns 09/12/2005
A symposium on Montana's energy future will be held October 18-19th on the Bozeman campus of Montana State University. Event topics will include energy production, renewable energy, conservation, transmission issues and enviornmental concerns. The mission of the symposium is to start the process of developing a comprehensive, long-term energy policy for Montana. Governors of New Mexico, Idaho, Utah, Wyoming, Washington, Oregon and West Virginia will discuss energy issues in their states, and representatives from the Natural Resources Defense Council, the Department of Energy, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission will be in attendance. The public is invited to the symposium. The cost is $50, although students with valid student identification can attend free of charge. For more information, including registration information and an updated agenda, visit www.energyfuture.mt.gov.
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Denver World Oil Conference November 9-10, 2005 08/29/2005
World oil production is expected to peak and then start to decline, perhaps in the next decade. This conference, entitled "Beyond Oil: Potential Responses to Peak Oil Impacts," will discuss the impacts of a peak in world oil production. Since oil provides nearly 40% of world energy, peak oil will be a significant turning point in human history, with far-reaching consequences. The conference will present ways in which citizens, corporations, cities, and states can take intelligent actions to prepare for more expensive petroleum and to mitigate the negative impacts of peak oil. Presentations will include alternative fuels status and issues, an update from car manufacturers, and an exploration of policy options, especially at the municipal level.
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GreenBiz Features Article on Alternative Energy Options for Businesses 08/23/2005
New financial incentives, regulatory changes, and green energy purchase programs make it easier for businesses to find alternative energy sources.
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Montana: Training for Building Efficiency and Comfort 08/09/2005
BetterBricks, in partnership with Northwestern Energy and the Montana Integrated Design Lab are offering two half-day training workshops in both Missoula and Billings. A session entitled Climate Responsive and Integrated Design Strategies will be held September 13th in Billings and September 14th in Missoula. Natural and Mechanical Ventilation Systems will be offered December 6th in Billings and December 7th in Missoula. Sessions are free of charge, though pre-registration is required. Attendance qualifies for AIA Learning Units in the Health, Safety, and Welfare Category.
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Award-Winning Software Helps Reduce Home Energy Consumption 08/05/2005
TREAT software recently won an R&D 100 award by Research and Development Magazine. The magazine recognized it as one of the most significant innovations of the year. The TREAT tool computes home energy consumption and identifies the most cost effective energy efficiency upgrades for both single-family and multifamily dwellings. The tool, developed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and project partners, helps building performance contractors and energy auditors accurately assess energy use and recommend the best options for improving energy effiency. Reducing home energy consumption can significantly reduce emissions of carbon dioxide and other pollutants to the environment.
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Wyoming Launches New Solar- and Wind-Powered Stock Pump Project 08/05/2005
Wyoming ranchers will soon have access to new solar and wind technology to provide water for their livestock. A new state pilot project plans to deploy solar- and wind-powered stock watering pumps at selected ranches in each Wyoming county, with the goal of promoting renewable energy and eventually providing pumps to all ranchers who qualify for the program. The pumps, developed by the University of Wyoming Electric Motor Training and Testing Center, can help improve rangeland health by providing more watering locations in more remote areas of the ranches. Since livestock usually stay close to watering locations, more dispersed pumps can reduce livestock concentrations on the range and resulting impacts on the land. Applications are being considered by a committee of conservation districts, rural electric cooperatives, UW Cooperative Extension and rural ranching organizations, in consultation with the Department of Agriculture.
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2005 Fuel Economy Trends Report Now Available 07/29/2005
EPA released its annual report, "Light-Duty Automotive Technology and Fuel Economy Trends: 1975 Through 2005." The report provides data on the fuel economy and performance characteristics of light-duty vehicles (cars, vans, SUVs, and pickup trucks) for model years 1975 through 2005.
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NREL Expo Will Showcase Energy Products and Services 07/26/2005
U.S. Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Laboratory's (NREL) is conducting an expo called "NREL Residential & Commercial Building". The expo is being held on August 6, 2005 in Golden, Colorado. The Expo will feature educational presentations, children's activities, and energy products and services for homes and businesses.
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Utah: Mayors Meet in Salt Lake to Discuss Climate 07/25/2005
Mayors from around the U. S. met recently in Salt Lake to discuss actions their cities could take to address greenhouse gas emissions. The 46 mayors discussed options such as: promoting energy efficiency with smarter lighting, cleaner vehicles and cleaner operations, such as capturing greenhouse gases from municipal landfills, purchasing wind power and promoting development of other renewable energy sources.
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Wyoming: New Oil Field Technology Limits Greenhouse Gases 07/25/2005
A project that uses carbon dioxide to coax more oil out of the ground will help clear the landscape of thousands of power poles, power lines and conventional pumping wells, and prevent tons of greenhouse gases from polluting the atmosphere. Carbon dioxide is produced in large amounts by coal-fired power plants, but most of it is vented into the atmosphere and is a major source of greenhouse gases. But the new technology will allow the carbon dioxide to be injected into the oil reservoir to remove more oil and reduce greenhouse gases.
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States Funded to Weatherize Low Income Housing 07/19/2005
The U. S. Department of Energy has awarded $92.5 million to 19 states to improve the energy efficiency of low-income family homes. Plugging air leaks, improving insulation and tuning air conditioning and heating systems are some of the improvements that will be made in order to reduce energy waste and lower energy bills. Approximately 92,300 homes will be upgraded with the money. It is estimated that weatherization can reduce an average homes energy costs by $237 a year. The program is administered by states, tribes and 970 local agencies. Every state, the District of Columbia, the Navajo Nation and the Inter-Tribal Council of Arizona will receive weatherization grants this year.
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Agreement Provides More Money To Help Develop Energy-Efficient Vehicles 07/18/2005
DOE and the United States Council for Automotive Research (USCAR) have reached an agreement that could approach $125 million over five years to develop advanced high-performance batteries for electric, hybrid electric and fuel cell vehicle applications. As part of the new agreement, DOE and USCAR will split the cost of research and development for a number of new battery materials and technologies that have the potential to increase energy storage and charge/discharge performance, improve durability and reliability and reduce cost.
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Utah: Mayors Meet to Discuss Climate 07/11/2005
A group including 45 mayors from big and small cities across the country will be gathering in Salt Lake City for a conference on global warming. The conference began Sunday and will run through Tuesday. The conference is exclusive and only those mayors invited will be attending. Among expected participants are the mayors of Chicago, Pittsburgh, Seattle and Washington as well as those of such small cities as Eden Prairie, Minnisota; Euless, Texas; and Keene, New Hampshire.
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Incentives Will Ease Clean Diesel Transition 07/08/2005
EPA is enhancing an early credit program through a direct final rule to produce and distribute ultra-low sulfur highway diesel fuel earlier than required. Under the incentive program, refiners and importers will be given credits for the amount delivered into the distribution system prior to June 1, 2006.
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Region 8 States Receive Funds for Energy Efficiency Projects 07/06/2005
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is providing 38 states with $26.5 million in State Energy Program (SEP) grants for Fiscal Year 2005. All states within Region 8 are represented. The amounts range from $304,000 for Wyoming to 685,000 for Colorado. These grants are part of the $44 million to be distributed nationwide and to five U.S. territories during this fiscal year. SEP grants support and encourage state energy-saving and efficiency goals.
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Navajos Power Residences with Sun and Wind 07/05/2005
(Salt Lake Tribune) In New Mexico, remote hogan's are being equipped with renewable energy systems to supply families and elderly tribe members with power. Costs for running power lines to the homes would have been prohibitive. Sacred Power, an Indian owned utility, partnered with the communities of Torreon-Star Lake and Ojo Encino to build and install the systems. The systems also come with energy-efficient refrigerators and light bulbs and the company is providing on-going maintenance of the systems for two years and training residents to conserve energy.
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NEW TOOL: Find E-85 Gas Stations, Save Money 06/29/2005
E-85 is a blend of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline that can be used in flexible fuel vehicles. Costing 30 to 60 cents less per gallon at the pumps, it's generating big interest in the Midwest where much U. S. ethanol is produced. The National Ethanol Vehicle Coalition keeps an updated E85 refueling location map on their web site and also lists makes and models of vehicles that can burn it. In EPA Region 8, North Dakota, South Dakota and Colorado are tied for having the most E-85 gas stations.
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National Middle School Science Bowl Announces Winners 06/27/2005
Smith Middle School from Chapel Hill, N.C., captured first place in the model hydrogen fuel cell competition during the National Middle School Science Bowl in Golden, Colorado. The contest is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and General Motors, administered by DOE's Office of Science and hosted by DOE's National Renewable Energy Laboratory at the Colorado School of Mines. St. Andrew's Episcopal School, from Amarillo, Texas, and Robert Frost Middle School from Rockville, Md., came in second and third respectively.
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Nominations Open for the Green Power Leadership Awards 06/24/2005
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Center for Resource Solutions (CRS) are now accepting nominations for the fifth annual Green Power Leadership Awards. The awards are designed to recognize outstanding achievements by green power purchasers, suppliers, and industry leaders that have helped build markets for green power.
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Renewable Energy Conference Earlybird Date Approaches 06/24/2005
Registration for the South West Renewable Energy Conference (August 1-2, 2005 in Santa Fe, New Mexico) at the earlybird rate ends July 1. On-line registration is available. Key sponsors include: Northern Arizona University, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, PNM Utility, Grand Canyon Trust, Sandia National Laboratories, Western Resource Advocates and others. The Conference Program will present a wide range of information about issues regarding the development of wind, solar, biomass, geothermal and other forms of renewable energy on tribal, federal, state and private lands.
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Montana: University Sustainable Campus Committee presents Award 06/23/2005
The 2005 Greening University of Montana Award has been presented to Paul Williamson, the architect of the Montana Futures Project. The project is to make the University the first hydrogen-powered campus in the world. UofM has already obtained a $750,000 grant to begin planning the proposed hydrogen park.
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North Dakota: New Windfarm Planned 06/21/2005
Two new wind farms are now being planned for construction north of Bismarck with the construction of 33 turbines starting this fall. FPL Energy spokesman Steve Stengel said that the turbines will generate 49.5 megawatts of power, enough to serve about 15,000 homes.
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Utah: EPA Recognizes University for Reducing Use of Fossil Fuels 06/20/2005
The EPA and Sterling Planet recently recognized the University of Utah for its effort to minimize use of fossil fuels. The EPA made the University a Green Power Partner, while Sterling Planet presented the school with a Certificate of Environmental Stewardship. The recognition comes as a result of the Universitys attempts to purchase wind power to reduce fossil fuels.
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Tribes Receive Renewable Energy Grants (DOE) 06/17/2005
The U. S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced that it is making nearly $2.5 million available to 18 Native American tribes to advance the use of renewable energy and energy efficient technologies on tribal lands. A variety of wind, solar, biomass, geothermal and energy planning projects were funded. A complete list of projects is available with the original story. The National Renewable Energy Lab in Golden, Colorado will administer the grants.
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Colorado: University Students Unveil Solar Home Design 06/15/2005
Students of the University of Colorado Solar Decathlon Team will unveil and start construction of their solar home as part of the second international Solar Decathlon competition sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy. The Solar Decathlon, first held in 2002, is a triennial student competition to design and build the best zero-energy solar home. The event comprises of 10 contests ranging from the home's overall design, livability and aesthetic appeal to the quality of its lighting, hot water and refrigeration, and its ability to power an electric car. The event will be held October 7-16, 2005 in Washington, D.C.
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Western Governors Meeting Proposes Solutions to Energy Use 06/15/2005
Western Governors met with the Energy Secretary to explore ways in which the Western states and the federal government can collaborate to meet their mutual energy goals. Some proposals established were: a resolution to work on policies and projects that will enhance Western energy development, they also took the next steps to build the capacity of the West to resolve regional electric policy issues, and they also encouraged the Western power industry to expand its efforts to adequately organize to better address regional power issues in the West in collaboration with the states and provinces.
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Colorado: Energy Secretary Begins "Energizing America for Energy Security" Tour 06/13/2005
Secretary of Energy Samuel Bodman will kick off the "Energizing America for Energy Security" tour on Monday, June 13, 2005 during a visit to Habit for Humanity's "net zero energy home" in Wheat Ridge, Colorado. On June 14, he is expected to give the keynote address to the Western Governors Association and will tour DOE's National Renewable Energy Lab (NREL) in Golden.
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Grant to Address Climate Change 06/13/2005
A $17.9 million Department of Energy grant was awarded to the Big Sky Regional Carbon Sequestration Partnership headed by Montana State University. The Big Sky partnership is composed of public and private sector research institutions, businesses, tribal nations, international cooperators and state agencies. The partnership is part of a national carbon sequestration network to further develop ways of capturing and storing greenhouse gases. Research will center on storage in underground geological formations, cropland and forestland. It will also look at next-generation energy power plants.
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Colorado: Students Purchasing More Wind Energy 06/06/2005
Students at the University of Colorado-Boulder are purchasing more wind energy power for their campus. They have now purchased enough wind-generated electricity to offset 100% of the electricity needs of the three student-run campus buildings. Students have been participating for the last five years in using wind power.
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Utah: PowerForward Beginning Fifth Year 06/06/2005
Utahs statewide energy conservation initiative called PowerForward, is beginning it's fifth year. PowerForward runs from June 1 to Sept. 15 each year and has been a highly successful program during periods of high demand for electricity due to high temperatures. The Utah Energy Office introduced it in 2001 but it is now under the direction of the Utah Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ).
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Colorado: Businesses Develop Energy Saving Measures 06/03/2005
There are several businesses that are using ways to save energy. One of the businesses is the New Belgium Brewing Co. They use skylights, shady eaves and electricity generated from brewing waste, which allows them to use 40 percent less energy than the average American brewer to produce a barrel of beer. Examples of energy-efficiency improvements in other Colorado businesses include: Agilent Technologies who installed a $4,000 dew-point sensor; Boulder Community Foothills Hospital was built with high-efficiency windows and lights, occupancy sensors for turning lights on and off, carbon-dioxide detectors for building ventilation and high-efficiency fans and motors; and the new First National Bank building in Montrose also features an underground geothermal system. Other business can be found by viewing the original story.
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Denver EPA Builds Green 06/02/2005
Beginning next fall, the EPA's Denver office will be moving into a new building that is designed to be environmentally friendly. The $90 million building will have features that include: A system that distributes heated and cooled air through the floor, allowing it to rise naturally into the work environment, use of recycled products and environmentally certified wood products, and designs that will allow future installation of on-site energy generation using wind turbines and solar panels. There are other features as well such as the shape of the building and location of windows, and a "green roof".
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Montana: Free Workshop for Grant Applications 05/20/2005
The Montana Department of Environmental Quality has announced that they will hold a free workshop explaining how to apply for grants. Currently, the United States Department of Agriculture has $23 million in grant money available to obtain funding for a renewable energy or energy efficiency project. The workshop will be held on Tuesday, May 24, 2005 in Helena.
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Montana: University Students Explore Renewable Energy 05/20/2005
Montana State University students are researching how renewable energy might lower power bills on the Hi-Line. The students are engineering students who, as part of their senior capstone project, are trying to find ways to use geothermal, micro hydro, wind and solar sources from different engineering disciplines: mechanical, electrical and industrial engineering in order to reduce energy costs at a resort in the area. The resort is home to two hot springs mineral pools.
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Wyoming: Tip Sheets Help Businesses with Pollution Prevention 05/20/2005
Wyoming DEQ's Solid and Hazardous Waste Division has put together a series of educational tip sheets to help businesses with their pollution prevention and waste minimization efforts. The tip sheets cover: hazardous waste, auto body shops, vehicle service facilities, painting, dry cleaning, laboratories, oilfield services, and utility power plants.
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NEW TOOL: Gear Up for Summer Energy Savings 05/18/2005
A great summer project for your older kids is to figure out how to reduce your family's energy use. These two sites offer interactive education about saving energy in your home. The Energy Savers Virtual Home (from U.S. Dept. of Energy) offers a memory game with great tips as a reward for each match or takes you on a virtual home tour based on the type of home you live in. The Energy Adviser, from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, is a do-it-yourself home energy audit. The tool calculates energy use and savings opportunities based on a detailed description of the home provided by the user. It includes energy-efficiency for heating, cooling, major appliances, lighting, and miscellaneous uses.
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Colorado: Students Recognized in Energy Education Event 05/17/2005
Forty-six teams from 17 Colorado schools participated in the Junior Solar Sprint and Hydrogen Fuel Cell car competitions hosted by the U.S. Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). Teams used either a solar cell and motor or a fuel cell and motor to design and build solar or hydrogen powered vehicles. A total of ten trophies and awards were awarded to students participating in three major categories.
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New Report Released on Biomass for Bioenergy 05/10/2005
A new report titled Biomass as Feedstock for a Bioenergy and Bioproducts Industry: The Technical Feasibility of a Billion-Ton Annual Supply study was recently released. The report was a collaboration between DOE's Oak Ridge National Laboratorys Environmental Science Division, the USDA Forest Service, and the USDA Agricultural Research Service. The purpose of the feedstock study was to determine whether United States land resources are capable of sustainably producing the estimated one-billion dry tons of biomass resources that would be needed to meet the goals set for the contribution of future energy needs.
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Colorado: City Among Winners of 2005 Climate Protection Awards 05/05/2005
The city of Boulder is among the 25 individuals, teams, organizations and companies from around the world that the EPA has recognized for outstanding efforts to protect the Earth's climate and stratospheric ozone layer. Boulder has pledged to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and has implemented several programs to accomplish their goals.
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Colorado: Business Receives EPA ENERGY STAR Award 05/02/2005
The EPA presented an award for Excellence in Promoting Superior Energy Performance to the ENSAR Group. The Boulder-based ENSAR Group provides architectural and sustainable design consulting services to help clients reduce energy use and improve environmental quality. ENERGY STAR Awards honor businesses and organizations that help companies strategically manage their energy use.
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Colorado: University Opens Field Laboratory for Sustainable Building Practices 05/02/2005
University of Colorado's College of Engineering and Applied Science has opened the new Field Laboratory for Applied Sustainable Technologies. This laboratory will give students the opportunity to practice sustainable building techniques in an outdoor setting. The goal of the lab is to be self-sufficient, generating its own power, and collecting and processing enough rainwater to complete all on-site projects.
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Utah: New Wind Farm Slated Near Spanish Fork Canyon 04/27/2005
A $13 million wind farm will be built at the mouth of Spanish Fork Canyon. Wasatch Wind plans to build seven 213 foot turbines next summer about one mile from the canyon. The 1.5 megawatt turbines has the capacity to produce power for more than 600 homes, and save up to 40 million gallons of water a year that are wasted through fossil fuel burning.
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Montana: Alternative Fuel Becoming More Popular 04/22/2005
With the price of diesel increasing, an entrepeneur is finding a way to create alternative diesel by using used frying oil. Other groups such as the Alternative Energy Resource Organization, and Sustainable Systems are also making alternative fuels. AERO is also trying to establish a new co-op that would use frying oil and Montana seed crops to create alternative fuels.
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Utah: Naural Gas Refueling Device Now Offered to Residents 04/22/2005
Salt Lake City residents now have a natural gas option for their cars. The Honda Civic GX, which runs on natural gas, can be bought in California and a Canadian company offers a home refueling device for it. The refueling device uses the home's existing natural gas lines. According to Honda, a car with a natural gas-powered engine emits on average 87% less nitrogen oxide, 70% less carbon monoxide and 25% less carbon dioxide than a car with an engine that uses gasoline. So far, the refueling device will only be offered to Salt Lake residents along with residents of Arizona, Dallas and Milwaukee.
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Colorado: Holy Cross Energy Among Top Utilities 04/21/2005
The Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has released its annual ranking of leading utility green power
programs. Among the top utilities is Holy Cross Energy, who is tied in fourth for the rate of customers who participate by choosing to help support additional electricity production from renewable resources such as solar and wind.
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Colorado: University's Conservation Efforts Expand 04/21/2005
Colorado State University continues its Earth Day celebration by expanding energy conservation projects that reduces energy and water use and by reducing pollution. The efforts are saving the University around $500,000 a year. The campaign is called "Green is Gold", and it includes water conservation and new lighting at the James L. Voss Veterinary Teaching Hospital. Colorado State encourages Energy and water conservation and wants it to become a habit for all students, faculty and staff. With Earth Day approaching, Colorado State encourages everyone to participate in energy conservation.
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Montana: Company Receives Good Cents/Energy Star Award 04/12/2005
Montana Homes of Helena received EPA's 2005 Gold Achievement Award for sales of energy efficient manufactured homes. The award was presented in Salem, Oregon by the Montana Department of Environmental Quality. Montana Homes of Helena was presented the award for their commitment to energy conservation, by selling the most ENERGY STAR manufactured homes in 2004.
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EPA Launches Clean Energy-Environment State Partnership Program 04/07/2005
The EPA has started a new inititive to tackle energy-environment issues. Colorado is one of the states that will be working with the EPA to develop and implement state-specific Clean Energy-Environment State Action Plans. The purpose is to improve air quality, decrease energy use, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and enhance economic development.
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Colorado: Florida Power Company Proposes New Wind Farm 04/06/2005
Florida Power & Light, wants to put an $80 million wind farm on eight private properties. The wind farm would be Colorado's fourth. The wind farm would contain approximately 50 turbine towers generating power for 21,000 homes. If the first phase of the project is successful, the project could double to 100 windmills producing 150 megawatts of power. The planning commission is scheduled to hear the application at the end of this month. If approved, it would then go to the Adams County commissioners in May for a final decision.
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South Dakota: Tax Break For Biodiesel Fuel Approved 04/06/2005
A state legislative panel voted to temporarily reduce the state excise tax on biodiesel fuels made from soybeans from $0.22/gallon to $0.20/gallon in order to increase biodiesel sales. Representative Joel Dykstra said the reductions would help promote the biodiesel industry in South Dakota with the added benefit that biodiesel is good for the environment.
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Montana: Public Service Commission Approves Wind Power Deal 03/31/2005
The Public Service Commission has approved NorthWestern Energy's agreement to buy electricity from a future wind farm near Judith Gap. Invenergy Wind will build a $150 million wind farm by December 31. The 8,000-acre wind farm will have 100 turbines, each with a capacity of 1.5 megawatts. Invenergy will supply NorthWestern with electricity for the next 20 years.
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Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Funding Available 03/31/2005
USDA announced the availability of $22.8 million to support investments in renewable energy systems and energy efficiency improvements by agricultural producers and rural small businesses.
This program was initiated by the 2002 Farm Bill and to date has funded nearly $45 million in projects in 32 states. The $22.8 million announced today will be made available in two stages. One-half is available immediately for competitive grants. Applicants can request from $2,500 to $500,000, but requests are not to exceed 25% of the total project cost. Applications must be submitted no later than June 27, 2005. The other half of the $22.8 million will be set aside through August 31, 2005 for renewable energy and energy efficiency guaranteed loans.
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Colorado: University Honors Energy Conservation Champions 03/30/2005
The students, faculty and staff of five buildings at the University of Colorado have found ways to cut their building energy use, saving the University $72,000 in energy costs. The buildings included: Fiske Planetarium, Ketchum Arts and Sciences, Muenzinger Psychology, Regent Administrative Center and the University Memorial Center. The winners will be awarded the 2004 Buff Energy Star Award and will be recognized during award ceremonies at each building during Energy Conservation Week, April 4-8.
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DOE Announces New Criteria for Energy Star Clothes Washers 03/30/2005
The Department of Energy has established tougher standards for clothes washers carrying the ENERGY STAR label. The criteria includes water savings requirements that will save consumers money. The new criteria will go into effect on January 1, 2007, when tougher minimum efficiency standards for all clothes washers take effect. The new criteria for ENERGY STAR models will be 36 percent more efficient than washers that just meet minimum requirements.
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Montana: DNRC and USDA Forest Service Create Fuels For Schools Program 03/25/2005
Montana DNRC and the USDA Forest Service have come together to create Fuels For Schools, a program that provides Montana schools with financial and technical assistance for converting existing school heating systems to biomass-fueled heating systems. Several schools have already made the conversion. For additional information contact Roy Anderson MSU Extension Service Forest Products Specialist.
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DOE Seeks Public Comment on New Greenhouse Gas Reporting Guidance 03/23/2005
The U.S. Department of Energy is seeking public comment on revised guidelines for voluntary reporting of greenhouse gas emissions. The revised guidelines in the program will allow the DOE to recognize participants who provide an accurate and complete accounting of their greenhouse gas emissions and their activities to reduce, avoid and sequester their greenhouse gas emissions. The guidlines also provide tools and guidance for estimating emissions. The public can comment on the guidelines for a 60-day period. Afterwards, the guidelines are expected to become effective 180 days after publication.
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Colorado: CDPHE Offers Pollution Prevention Grants 03/15/2005
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environments Pollution Prevention Advisory Board is accepting applications for 2005-2006 grants. These grants will be used to fund projects to identify and reduce environmental risks in Colorado. Those wishing to apply have until March 31, 2005 and the applications must be submitted electronically. Applicants may apply for as much as $25,000.
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EPA and DOE Recognizes Two Businesses in Region 8 03/14/2005
Ence Homes of St. George, UT, and the Colorado Springs School District 11 in Colorado Springs, CO, along with 48 other businesses won EPA and DOE recognition for outstanding contributions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through energy efficiency. Ence Homes was recognized in the Sustained Excellence category while Colorado Springs School District 11 was recognized in the Excellence in Energy Management category.
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Wyoming: Wind Turbine Noise Could Affect Sage Grouse 03/14/2005
State wildlife officials have said that new wind turbines should be kept away from sage grouse areas, in particular during breeding season because of the noise that the turbines produce. The Bureau of Land Management recommends that turbines and power lines avoid the sage grouse lek area for a quarter-mile perimeter of the lek.
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