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A
monthly E-newsletter from Montana Green Power
The
Montana Green Power E-newsletter is a monthly feature of the Montana Green
Power website:
www.montanagreenpower.com.
Visit
the website for details about all the stories below, a link to "Solar Access"
national and international news about renewable energy, plus lots of other green
power news. The site is funded with Universal System Benefits charges paid by
all NorthWestern Energy customers.
2007
Jan | Oct | Nov | Dec
January 2007
"First, there is the power of the Wind, constantly exerted over the globe.... Here is an almost incalculable power at our disposal, yet how trifling the use we make of it! It only serves to turn a few mills, blow a few vessels across the ocean, and a few trivial ends besides. What a poor compliment do we pay to our indefatigable and energetic servant!" — Henry David Thoreau
NEWS & NOTES
Montana Co-op Will Use Grant Funds for New Wind Farm Projects
San Francisco to Provide Green Power to an Entire Neighborhood
New Solar Cell Breaks Efficiency Record
Bill Extends Federal Energy Tax Credits
Cellulosic Ethanol Demonstration Plant Slated for New York
PSC Approves New Rates for Renewable Energy Producers
Advanced Cars Focus of Nissan's New Environmental Action Plan
Montana Wins Big with Clean Energy Bonds
Individual Industrial Assessments Available to More Companies
DOE Issues Final Appliance Test Procedure Rule
Green Energy TV Seeks Success Stories
FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES
Conservation Innovation Grants
Technology Innovation Program
Energy for Sustainability Grants
QUESTION OF THE WEEK
Can I design and install a photovoltaic (PV) system myself?
CASE STUDY OF THE MONTH
Missoula Fire Station No. 4
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NEWS & NOTES
Montana Co-op Will Use Grant Funds for New Wind Farm Projects
The Green Electricity Buying Cooperative has received funding from the federal Clean Renewable Energy bonds, established by the 2005 U.S. Energy Policy Act. The co-op has announced that it intends to use the funds to construct two wind farm projects in McCone and Yellowstone Counties , which together will produce about 20 megawatts of clean power. www.earthtimes.org/articles/show/11562.html
San Francisco to Provide Green Power to an Entire Neighborhood
The San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) will soon supply 100 percent green power to a neighborhood that is now under construction. Under an recently approved agreement, the SFPUC and Lennar BVHP, the site developer, will create a "Green Public Power Community" on a 93-acre parcel located at the former Hunters Point Naval Shipyard. The neighborhood will include more than 1,600 new residential units and 300,000 square feet of commercial and retail space. Initially, the SFPUC will supply solar and hydroelectric power to the community, but as new technologies become available, this and other future green power communities will be first in line for other green power sources.
Under the new agreement, SFPUC will procure and provide energy services to the community and ensure that rates charged to residents and businesses in the new neighborhood are the same or lower than current retail and commercial electric rates. As part of the agreement, Lennar BVHP will contribute $2 million towards the cost of providing renewable energy to customers in the new neighborhood. The Lennar funds could possibly be allocated towards the construction of rooftop solar facilities within the development.
sfwater.org/detail.cfm/MC_ID/18/MSC_ID/114/C_ID/3269
New Solar Cell Breaks Efficiency Record
Spectrolab, Inc. has developed a new concentrator solar cell with a sunlight-to-electricity conversion efficiency of 40.7 percent, a new world record in solar cell efficiency. The new cell uses a "multi-junction" structure, in which several layers each capture part of the sunlight passing through the cell. These layers allow the cell to capture more of the solar spectrum and convert it into electricity. The Spectrolab cell relies on an optical concentrator to focus sunlight onto the cell.
Researchers have been working toward the "40 percent barrier" for the past two decades. In the 1980s, multi-junction solar cells achieved about 16 percent efficiency, and DOE's National Renewable Energy Laboratory broke the 30 percent barrier in 1994. Today, most satellites use these multi-junction solar cells, and Spectrolab, a subsidiary of The Boeing Company, recently produced its two millionth solar cell using multi-junction technology. The new Spectrolab cell, developed with DOE funding, could lead to more affordable solar power systems, costing as little as $3 per watt to install and producing electricity at a cost of 8 to 10 cents per kilowatt-hour.
www.energy.gov/news/4503.htm
Bill Extends Federal Energy Tax Credits
President Bush has approved the Tax Relief and Health Care Act of 2006, extending the production tax credit through 2008 for electricity produced from wind power, geothermal power, biomass, landfill gas, small irrigation power, and trash combustion facilities. The act provides a similar one-year tax credit extension for new properties that produce geothermal power or make use of solar energy; for homeowners that purchase solar water heating, solar photovoltaic, or fuel cell systems; for businesses that purchase fiber-optic lighting systems, solar energy systems, or fuel cell power plants; for new energy-efficient homes; and for energy-efficiency improvements to commercial buildings.
The act extends the Clean Renewable Energy Bonds program through 2008, and increases the total annual amount of tax-credit bonds to $1.2 billion. It extends special tax allowances for cellulosic ethanol facilities to include plants placed in service by 2012. It also extends the research and development tax credit, which encourages businesses to invest in new innovations.
www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/12/20061220-2.html
Cellulosic Ethanol Demonstration Plant Slated for New York
Mascoma Corporation has been awarded a $14.8 million grant for a cellulosic biomass-to-ethanol demonstration plant in Rochester , New York . The project will demonstrate cellulose-to-ethanol technology and industrial processes, using agricultural and forest products as biomass, including paper sludge, wood chips, Grant funds are from the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets and the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA). Also supporting the project are International Paper Co., Cornell University , Clarkson University and the Natural Resources Defense Council. www.renewableenergyaccess.com/rea/news/story;jsessionid=1057E21B2FB611B2F46191DFF468F88A?id=46921
PSC Approves New Rates for Renewable Energy Producers
Montana 's Public Service Commission has approved new prices for small renewable energy projects that sell the power to NorthWestern Energy, reports the Missoulian . Under the new rule, small projects—those up to 10 MW in size—could choose a price of either $49.90 per megawatt-hour (mwh) or a price tied to the highest hourly price that NorthWestern pays for power from other sources, with contracts ranging from seven to 20 years. NorthWestern Energy currently sells power to its Montana customers for about $48 per mwh. www.missoulian.com/articles/2006/12/13/news/local/news04.txt
Advanced Cars Focus of Nissan's New Environmental Action Plan
Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., has announced its new environmental action plan, which focuses on reducing both exhaust and CO2 emission, and increasing recycling efforts. Nissan Green Program 2010 includes plans to introduce a variety of fuel-efficient vehicles by 2010, including an expanded number of flex-fuel vehicles and a new hybrid vehicle. Nissan also will commercialize a battery-powered electric vehicle and a fuel cell vehicle. The plan includes a commitment to accelerate Nissan's development of plug-in hybrid vehicles and an effort to develop a car by 2010 that can run 100 kilometers on three liters of gasoline using advanced engine technologies and a continuously variable transmission. The company also will reduce its energy use in manufacturing, cutting carbon dioxide emissions of its auto plants by 7 percent by 2010. www.nissan-global.com/EN/NEWS/2006/_STORY/061211-01-e.html
Montana Wins Big with Clean Energy Bonds
Montana was recently awarded a whopping $72 in interest-free federal bonds that will finance 34 wind power projects, reports the Billings Outpost . The big winner is the Green Electricity Buying Cooperative, the state's only “green” energy cooperative, which received $31.7 million for two wind farms that will collectively produce about 20 megawatts of electrical power. One wind farm will be located south of Fort Peck and the other in rural Yellowstone County .
Sen. Max Baucus played a pivotal role in making the bond funds available. According to Baucus's spokesman,Brett Kaiser, “Baucus wrote the program and then encouraged Montana communities to apply. Turns out Montana got almost ten percent of the total $800 million set aside nationally.” www.billingsnews.com/story?storyid=21841&issue=366
Individual Industrial Assessments Available to More Companies
The door is opening for more companies to become involved in free, or nearly free, industrial energy assessments. As part of DOE's Save Energy Now program, large-and-medium-sized facilities can now participate in an energy savings assessment (ESA) by joining together to reach the minimum potential energy savings threshold. Industrial plants may apply individually, or in groups of up to 10 if they consume a total of 1 trillion BTUs or more annually. In either instance, the results of a plant's assessment will remain confidential.
Assessment areas include process heating, steam, fans, pumps and compressed air. The program's goal is to reach large industrial energy users having the potential for significant energy savings. If a company is selected for an assessment, an ESA Energy Expert will work onsite with the company to identify savings opportunities. Plant employees will help gather data, learn about software tools and perform a system analysis to minimize energy use. Individual companies qualifying for a first-time assessment will receive a full evaluation free of charge; the only cost will be time invested by their staff.
Multiple facilities applying as a group will be eligible for a free assessment for one plant. If additional plants in the group want an assessment, DOE will pay $4,000, plus the Expert's travel expenses. Selected plants are encouraged to work closely with their state energy offices, trade associations and utilities. DOE hopes this will help create up-front partnerships that will encourage additional plants to implement energy saving technologies. For more information, visit the Save Energy Now Web site at www1.eere.energy.gov/industry/saveenergynow/
DOE Issues Final Appliance Test Procedure Rule
The U.S. Department of Energy has announced a final rule establishing new test procedures and related definitions to determine the energy efficiency of certain residential appliances and commercial equipment. The rulemaking clarifies and codifies the test procedures mandated by the Energy Policy Act (EPAct) of 2005.
The final rulemaking, which appears in the December 8 Federal Register , will become effective 30 days later. The rule promulgates test procedures and definitions for the following items as required by EPAct 2005: fluorescent lamp ballasts; ceiling fans and ceiling fan light kits; illuminated exit signs; torchieres; low-voltage dry-type distribution transformers; traffic signal modules and pedestrian modules; unit heaters; medium base compact fluorescent lamps; dehumidifiers; commercial prerinse spray valves; mercury vapor lamp ballasts; commercial package air conditioning and heating equipment; commercial refrigerators, freezers, and refrigerator-freezers; automatic commercial ice makers; and commercial clothes washers. www.energy.gov/news/4514.htm
Green Energy TV Seeks Success Stories
Green Energy TV, a new Internet-based television channel, is seeking green energy success stories for its website. Project areas include solar energy, wind power, hydro power, hydrogen, biomass, biofuels, geothermal, energy conservation, and hybrid vehicles. Green Energy TV is asking viewers to send videos of green energy projects anywhere in the world, current or completed. It also is interested in featuring companies, inventors, colleges and universities that have developed green energy technologies.
www.greenenergytv.com/
FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES
Conservation Innovation Grants
The U.S. Department of Agriculture requests proposals for the Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG) Program. The purpose of CIG is to stimulate the development and adoption of innovative conservation approaches and technologies for environmental enhancement and protection, in conjunction with agricultural production. Categories of interest include: 1) National Natural Resource Concerns (atmosphere, water, soil grazing land and forest health; and 2) National Technology (improved on-farm energy efficiency including but not limited to renewable energy resources, methane recovery, and water management). Some $2 million is expected to be available, with up to 60 awards anticipated. Responses are due February 2, 2007 . For more information, contact Tessa Chadwick at [email protected] or go to: www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=11733. Refer to Sol# USDA-NRCS-NHQ0701
Technology Innovation Grants
The Bonneville Power Administration requests proposals for the Technology Innovation Program, Renewable Energy (Wind, Ocean Wave or In-Stream Tidal). BPA seeks innovative R&D projects that manage the intermittent nature of transmission grid-connected renewables such as wind and advancing research on ocean wave and in-stream tidal technologies. Some $1 million expected to be available, with multiple contract awards anticipated. Responses are due January 19, 2007 . For more information, go to: www.bpagov/corporate/business/innovation/ . Refer to Sol# 739.
Energy for Sustainability Grants
The National Science Foundation requests proposals for the Energy for Sustainability Program, for fundamental research and education in energy production, conversion, and storage which is focused on energy sources that are environmentally friendly and renewable. This program seeks to reduce world dependence on fossil fuels, reduce greenhouse gases, and promote sustainable energy. Proposals are due March 31 and September 15, 2007 . To see the full solicitation, visit http://www.grants.gov/search/basic.do , and search for solicitation No. PD-07-7644.
QUESTION OF THE WEEK
Q: Can I design and install a photovoltaic (PV) system myself?
A: Maybe! However, unless you are very handy or experienced in home wiring, you should use experienced professionals to design and install anything more than the simplest application, for the following reasons:
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You might void the manufacturer's warranties
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You might not have a functional system after spending your hard-earned money on the system
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Electricity can be dangerous; you might get hurt
You might damage your home or appliances during installation
The goal of a stand-alone system designer is to assure customer satisfaction by providing a well-designed, durable system with a 20-year life expectancy (or more). This depends on sound design, specification and procurement of quality components, good engineering and installation practices, and a consistent preventive maintenance program.
System sizing is perhaps the easiest part of achieving a durable PV power system. To determine the correct system size, you must first analyze your electricity loads .
In addition to sizing the system correctly, a thorough knowledge of the availability, performance, and cost of components is the key to good system design. Price/performance trade-offs should be made and reevaluated throughout the design process. When you start your design, obtain as much information as you can about the components you might use. After studying all the issues, you can do an initial sizing of the PV system and get some ideas about specifying system components.
CASE STUDY OF THE MONTH
Missoula Fire Station No. 4
By Ed Brunsvold, Firefighter
Missoula Fire Station No. 4 is the first in Montana to be partially solar powered. It is estimated that the system will produce approximately 6,500kwh of electricity each year. The system is primarily a grid intertie system, with battery backup. Power stored in the battery bank is used only in the event of a power outage and powers circuits critical for the station's operations. Best of all, we think that it is firefighter-proof (meaning it is indestructible and low maintenance.)
The system was funded through a $50,000 grant from the Universal System Benefits Charge, administered by the former Montana Power Company (currently NorthWestern Energy).
Sunelco of Hamilton, Montana, installed the system. It became operational in March 2001. The grant proposal basically wrote itself. The combination of a good solar site, and a classroom in the building, made the fire station a good candidate.
The savings in energy costs benefit the local taxpayers, and we can train firefighters how to work safely around renewable energy systems. As these systems become more prevalent, firefighters will need to recognize when a building's electrical circuits are de-energized. Other agencies such as schools and folks in the electrical trades can also use the classroom to get familiar with solar components. Read the full story at www.montanagreenpower.com/casestudy.htm
October 2007
"Some of our businesses use more energy than others, but our strategy everywhere is the same…first, reduce our use of energy as much as possible. Then, switch to renewable sources of power where it makes economic sense. And, over time, as a last resort, offset the emissions we can't avoid." — Rupert Murdoch , Chairman of News Corporation
NEWS & NOTES
Don't Miss the Upcoming Oilseeds for Fuel, Feed and the Future Workshop
Baucus Goes ‘Carbon Neutral' in Air Travel
Sage Mountain Center Announces Lecture Series
Rebates Available for Solar Electric Systems on New Montana Homes
Montana Lags Behind Other Northwest States in Wind Power Development
Critics in Great Falls Look to Wind Energy as Alternative to Coal
Biodiesel Production Demystified
Safeway Unveils First Solar-Powered Grocery Store
First California Community Approved by California 's New Solar Homes Partnership
Wind Energy Leads 2006 Increase in Renewable Energy Consumption
Supply Constraints Impacting Wind Energy Industry
Federal Renewable Fuel Standard in Place
South Dakota Conference Focused on Climate Change Solutions
Costs of Heating Fuels Expected to Increase Sharply
National Governors Association Launches Clean Energy Initiative
Report Calls for Energy Diversity to Meet Future Needs
Second Major U.S. Climate Change Science Program Report Released
DOE Commits to Reducing Energy Use by 30 Percent
FUNDING NEWS
Funding to Support Commercial Production of Cellulosic Biofuels Announced
DOE to Provide $20 Million to Develop Advanced Batteries for Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles
DOE Announces $2 Million for Tribal Renewable Energy Projects
Honda Hybrids Still Qualify for Tax Credit
QUESTION OF THE WEEK
Can ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs be used with dimmer switches?
CASE STUDY OF THE MONTH
Solar Meals for Seniors Demonstration Project
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NEWS & NOTES
Don't Miss the Upcoming Oilseeds for Fuel, Feed and the Future Workshop
Montana farmers interested in learning more about how to produce and use biodiesel or how to raise oilseed crops can learn more about these topics at an upcoming oilseeds and biodiesel workshop. The Oilseeds for the Future workshop will take place on October 30 starting at 8:00 am at the KwaTakNuk Best Western Motel in Polson. The second day of the workshop will be held at the Salish Kootenai College in nearby Pablo. On-site registration will begin at 8:00 a.m. The cost for the workshop is $30 per participant for the two-day workshop, or $20 to attend one day. Pre-registration is encouraged. More...
Baucus Goes ‘Carbon Neutral' in Air Travel
Montana Senator Max Baucus is putting his money where his mouth is when it comes to climate change. The senior U.S. Senator today offset his carbon emissions for air travel between Montana and Washington , D.C. , paying $1,152 dollars for a year's worth of travel to begin to help establish a “carbon-neutral footprint.” Baucus became the first U.S. Senator to use services provided by Native Energy, a privately held Native American energy company, to offset his official Senate travel. Read the full press release.
Sage Mountain Center Announces Lecture Series
As energy security, costs, and climate change issues become more important, clean renewable energy sources are making their way into the mainstream. Here in Montana , hundreds of homes and businesses are turning to Renewable Energy to offset power bills and contribute to cleaner air, water, and soil. Sage Mountain Center is offering a series of evening presentations tilted "Introduction to Solar Electricity, Solar Hot Water, and Small Wind Generation" that will cover solar electricity, solar hot water, and small wind equipment, financing, rebates, and getting credit for the power you produce. There will also be demonstration equipment, slide show with Q&A, and plenty of literature to be given out. Find out which form of energy may be right for you. Admission is free, and no pre-registration necessary. Presentations will be held 7–9 p.m. at locations below.
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Oct. 9, Missoula , Best Western Grant Creek Inn, 5280 Grant Creek Rd.
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Oct. 11, Great Falls, Hampton Inn, 2301 14 th St. SW
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Oct. 12, Helena , Best Western Great Northern, 835 Great Northern Blvd.
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Nov. 7, Bozeman , Holiday Inn, 5 Baxter Ln.
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Nov. 8, Butte , War Bonnet Hotel, 2100 Cornell
Email [email protected] or call Sage Mountain Center at (406) 494-9875 for more information. Presentations sponsored by Northwestern Energy USB Renewable Energy Program.
Rebates Available for Solar Electric Systems on New Montana Homes
The National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT) has announced that ten rebates of $3,500 are available to homeowners, builders, and others to install solar electric systems on new ENERGY STAR-certified homes. The rebates, funded by NorthWestern Energy, are only available to new homes in NorthWestern Energy's electric service territory. For more information, call Mark Hughey at 494-8641.
Montana Lags Behind Other Northwest States in Wind Power Development
While Montana has a decent number of wind energy installations, it falls behind other states in the Northwest and Plains states, according to this report from The Montana Standard . Montana 's wind installations total about 145 megawatts, producing roughly enough power for 50,000 homes. In comparison, Wyoming has about double Montana 's capacity, and Washington , Minnesota and Iowa each have nearly 1,000 megawatts installed. While supporters believe that Montana will share in the significant wind energy growth happening in the region, there are a number of barriers that could stand in the way, such as a lack of transmission lines, a shortage of “firming power,” and a perceived reluctance on the part of NorthWestern Energy and electric co-ops about buying and encouraging more wind power. More…
Critics in Great Falls Look to Wind Energy as Alternative to Coal
The Highwood Generating Station project east of Great Falls is a hot topic in the area these days, with no shortage of either supporters or critics. According to this report in the Great Falls Tribune, critics of the coal-fired plant believe that wind energy could eliminate the need for the coal-fired plant entirely. And indeed, a lawsuit has recently been filed that seeks to block federal funding for the $720 million project. Critics of wind are calling the technology expensive and impractical. But according to the article, the Judith Gap wind project has been a notable success. NorthWestern Energy is currently purchasing wind power from Judith Gap at $42 and $46 per megawatt hour, “a bargain-basement price with default electricity prices exceeding $55 per megawatt hour.” More…
Biodiesel Production Demystified
One of this year's buzz words is biodiesel. As pressure mounts to reduce U.S. dependence on foreign oil, many farmers have planted oilseed crops to be used for biodiesel, a domestic petroleum replacement. But what are the advantages and disadvantages of this renewable fuel? NCAT now provides an illustrated, easy-to-understand online guide for farmers and others who would like to learn more. " Biodiesel Production for On-Farm Use: A Curriculum for Agricultural Producers " was developed for NCAT by Piedmont Biofuels of North Carolina. The online presentation gives information about the various feedstocks and the crushing and pressing process, and includes case studies of some farms and other commercial operations that make and use biodiesel to power their vehicles and equipment.
Safeway Unveils First Solar-Powered Grocery Store
Safeway Inc., one of the largest retail investors in renewable energy, has announced a new environmental project to power 23 California stores with renewable solar energy. The company installed solar panels atop a newly renovated Safeway Lifestyle store in Dublin , California , and plans to extend the program to nearly two dozen stores as part of a broader renewable energy initiative. The store's rooftop solar panel array is currently generating electricity to power the 55,000-square-foot retail facility. Read the full press release.
First California Community Approved by California 's New Solar Homes Partnership
The new home community of Wisteria by Christopherson Homes in Rocklin , California , is the first community to be approved by the State of California under its New Solar Homes Partnership (NSHP) program. As part of the California Solar Initiative (CSI), NSHP provides significant rebates for homes that feature solar electric systems, achieve at least 15 percent above current Title 24 Standards, and include ENERGY STAR appliances. Through partnering with the state's utilities to provide commensurate energy efficiency rebates, NSHP encourages homes to be built to a Tier II efficiency level, or 35-40% above current Title 24 Standards. More…
Wind Energy Leads 2006 Increase in Renewable Energy Consumption
A new report from DOE's Energy Information Administration (EIA) concludes that the use of renewable energy in the United States increased nearly 7% in 2006. According to the report, wind power topped the list, increasing by 45% in 2006, followed by biofuels, which increased 27.6%. In 2006, ethanol provided 4% of the volume of finished gasoline produced in the United States while consuming 14% of the nation's corn crop. Hydropower production also increased by 6.9% in 2006, reaching its highest level since 2003. See the EIA report .
Supply Constraints Impacting Wind Energy Industry
The U.S. wind energy industry is on track to add well over 3,000 megawatts (MW) to the nation's power generating capacity in 2007, surpassing last year's record of 2,454 MW, says the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA). The bullish performance by the industry is tempered, however, by supply chain shortages and policy uncertainty--two barriers that are related. Wind power developers report that turbine availability is a limiting factor--in other words, there is demand for even more wind energy but companies can't build more projects because there aren't enough new wind turbines to buy. And, in turn, there aren't enough manufacturing facilities for turbines and turbine parts in the country because the U.S. government's intermittent policy toward renewables has discouraged companies from investing in manufacturing facilities. Read the full press release .
Federal Renewable Fuel Standard in Place
The federal Renewable Fuels Standard (RFS) went into effect on September 1, setting new reporting, registration, and compliance requirements for major refiners, fuel blenders, and fuel importers. Authorized by the Energy Policy Act of 2005, the RFS requires that 4.2% of the fuel sold or dispensed to U.S. motorists in 2007 must come from renewable resources, an amount equal to about 4.7 billion gallons. That minimum volume will increase each year until it reaches 7.5 billion gallons of renewable fuel in 2012. More...
South Dakota Conference Focused on Climate Change Solutions
A conference held over the weekend in Sioux Falls , South Dakota , presented the issues related to climate change and offered attendees a chance to participate interactively in developing a plan to help the state address those issues. South Dakota Climate Challenge brought together participants from diverse backgrounds but all with a common goal: to craft solutions for South Dakota . According to this report in the Argus Leader , recommendations by the group included investing in tribal wind power infrastructure, promoting carbon sequestration in South Dakota's wetlands and developing technology to recover methane gas from feedlots, establishing a state energy code for buildings, compiling a carbon inventory in the state, discouraging the conversion of native prairie to cropland and restoring even small wetlands. More…
Costs of Heating Fuels Expected to Increase Sharply
Record prices are expected this winter for heating oil, electricity and propane, according to Reuters. Low-income families, who pay a disproportionate amount of their incomes for energy, could need government assistance to help pay the cost of keeping their homes warm. Heating oil is expected to have the largest increase, up some 28 percent from last year. Propane and natural gas costs are expected to increase about 7 and 5 percent, respectively. More…
National Governors Association Launches Clean Energy Initiative
The National Governors Association (NGA) has committed to promoting clean energy policies across the country, reports DOE's EERE Network News . NGA's new "Securing a Clean Energy Future" initiative will enlist the efforts of all governors to enact meaningful clean energy policies at the state level. Specifically, the initiative will promote state policies that encourage energy efficiency and conservation, promote non-petroleum fuels, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and accelerate research and development of advanced clean energy technologies.
The initiative's efforts will be guided by a task force composed of eight governors that represent a cross-section of the country and that share a common desire to advance clean energy. The task force is chaired by the governors of Kansas and Minnesota and also includes the governors of Connecticut, Florida, Hawaii, Montana, Pennsylvania, and Washington. More…
Report Calls for Energy Diversity to Meet Future Needs
A new 422-page report from the National Petroleum Council calls for an integrated national strategy that includes energy efficiency and the exploitation of diverse energy sources, reports DOE's EERE Network News. The report concludes that the United States should incorporate energy policy into most of its foreign policy decisions and should create long-term opportunities for research and development in all phases of the energy supply and demand system.
"The study demonstrates that energy efficiency is a very near-term energy resource, and tapping it is essential to national energy strategy," says Daniel Yergin, Vice Chair of the study and Chairman of Cambridge Energy Research Associates. "The challenge is that it involves thousands and thousands of decisions, not a few big decisions. But there is a focus on efficiency in the United States and around the world at a level never seen before. The study helps point the way." More...
Second Major U.S. Climate Change Science Program Report Released
The U.S. Climate Change Science Program (CCSP) has released the second in a series of 21 Synthesis and Assessment (S&A) reports. Coordinated by DOE, the report, titled Scenarios of Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Atmospheric Concentrations, and Review of Integrated Scenario Development and Application, provides a new long-term, global reference for greenhouse gas stabilization scenarios and an evaluation of the process by which scenarios are developed and used. CCSP was established by President Bush in 2002 to integrate federal research on global environmental change at 13 federal agencies, and to provide the nation with science-based knowledge to manage the risks and opportunities of change in the climate and related environmental systems. More...
DOE Commits to Reducing Energy Use by 30 Percent
A new DOE initiative will reduce energy intensity across DOE's facilities by 30%, saving taxpayers some $90 million each year, reports DOE's EERE Network News. The federal government is largest single user of energy in the United States , and DOE is the second largest energy consumer of all civilian federal agencies. DOE's new Transformational Energy Action Management (TEAM) Initiative requires that DOE have a plan for all facilities by 2008 to reduce their energy intensity by 30%; that all facilities maximize their installation of onsite renewable energy projects or optimize their purchase of renewable electricity; that the entire Alternative Fuel Vehicles fleet operate exclusively on clean, alternative fuels; and that water use be benchmarked and monitored, in order to reduce consumption 16% by fiscal year 2008. The new initiative places DOE on track to achieve the energy and water saving goals established by Executive Order 13423, which President Bush signed in January.
FUNDING NEWS
DOE Announces Funding to Support Commercial Production of Cellulosic Biofuels
DOE has announced a Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) that will make available up to $33.8 million to support the development of commercially viable enzymes - a key step to enabling bio-based production of clean, renewable biofuels such as cellulosic ethanol. As part of the President's Twenty in Ten Plan, DOE is pursuing a long-term strategy to support increased availability and cost-effective use of renewable and alternative fuels. Twenty in Ten seeks to displace 20 percent of U.S. gasoline usage by 2017 through diversification of clean energy sources and increased vehicle efficiency. Applications are due October 30, 2007. View the complete FOA . Projects are expected to begin in Fiscal Year 2008 and continue through Fiscal Year 2011.
DOE to Provide $20 Million to Develop Advanced Batteries for Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles
DOE has announced that it will invest nearly $20 million in plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) research. Five projects have been selected for negotiation of awards under DOE's collaboration with the United States Advanced Battery Consortium (USABC) for $17.2 million in DOE funding for PHEV battery development projects and; DOE will provide nearly $2 million to the University of Michigan (U-M) to spearhead a study exploring the future of PHEVs. DOE funding announced today will help advance President Bush's Twenty in Ten Plan, which aims to displace 20 percent of gasoline usage by 2017 through greater use of clean, renewable fuels and increased vehicle efficiency. PHEVs have the potential to displace a large amount of gasoline by delivering up to 40 miles of electric range without recharging – a distance that would include most daily roundtrip commutes. More…
DOE Announces $2 Million for Tribal Renewable Energy Projects
DOE has announced that it will provide as much as $2 million to 15 Native American tribes and Alaskan villages for renewable energy projects. Six of those selected will study the feasibility of using renewable energy technologies on tribal lands, while nine will take first steps in implementing such technologies. DOE's Tribal Energy Program will also provide technical assistance for the projects. The projects will take place in Alaska, California, Montana, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, and Wisconsin. Most of the selected tribes and villages will have some cost share in their projects.
In further demonstration of its commitment to supporting tribal efforts, DOE has created the Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs, headed by the newly appointed Deputy Assistant Secretary for Intergovernmental and External Affairs, Steven J. Morello. See the DOE press release and the Tribal Energy Program website.
Honda Hybrids Still Qualify for Tax Credit
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced that purchasers of qualified Honda hybrid vehicles may continue to claim the Alternative Motor Vehicle Credit. The announcement comes after the IRS concluded its quarterly review of the number of hybrid vehicles sold. The credit amount and make and model of qualified vehicles sold are:
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Honda Accord Hybrid, Model Year 2005: $650
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Honda Accord Hybrid, Model Year 2007: $1,300
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Honda Accord Hybrid Navi, Model Year 2007: $1,300
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Honda Civic Hybrid, Model Year 2007: $2,100
QUESTION OF THE WEEK
Q: Can ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs be used with dimmer switches?
A: Yes! Always read the packaging of the CFL to be sure of its proper application, but there are a wide variety of ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs that are designed for use in most fixtures in your home or business. Product types include:
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Incandescent shape (or A-shaped) and Globes, both are good in fixtures where the bulb is exposed or in fixtures with clamp lamp shades
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Reflectors are intended for non-dimmable track lighting and recessed cans, and some weather protected outdoor spot lights
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Candle shapes can be used in some porch lights, in wall sconces and in some chandeliers
-
Spirals, and mini-spirals are getting smaller and smaller in size and can be used in almost any fixture, especially table and floor lamps with harped shades
There are a few qualified 3-way and dimming CFL models that can be used for 3-way fixtures or in dimmable recessed cans or track lighting. (Source: EnergySTAR.gov )
CASE STUDY OF THE MONTH
Solar Meals for Seniors Demonstration Project
Thanks to NorthWestern Energy's Solar Meals for Seniors project, ten community senior citizen centers are reducing energy costs by converting the sun into electricity.
The demonstration project, implemented in 2004, selected ten facilities that serve and/or prepare senior citizen meals to receive a free solar electric system. The systems, also called photovoltaic (PV) systems, capture the sun and convert it to usable electricity, thereby reducing the facilities' energy costs and as a result, allowing more resources to go to food budgets.
Participating facilities are:
• Alberton Senior Center
• Augusta Senior Center
• Belmont Senior Center, Butte
• Choteau Senior Center
• Laurel Senior Center
• Liberty Senior Center, Chester
• Meagher County Senior Center, White Sulphur Springs
• Neighborhood Center, Helena
• North Central Senior Facility, Havre
• Whitehall Senior Center
The 2-kilowatt systems are expected to produce about 3,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity each year. Any excess electricity generated by the system is fed into the utility grid through a net-metering agreement with NorthWestern Energy.
Solar electric systems are very reliable, require almost no maintenance and generate “green” electricity, which is less harmful to the environment than fossil fuels.
Each senior center also received a free energy audit to identify measures or operating procedures that could further reduce energy costs should the participating facilities choose to implement the recommendations.
“This is an important demonstration project,” said John Walden of the National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT), which administered the project. “Senior citizen meal facilities offer a critically important service to our communities. Reducing their energy costs through both the PV systems and the energy audit means that more funds are freed up to provide essential meals to seniors.”
The project was funded by NorthWestern Energy's Universal Systems Benefits (USB) charge paid by the Company's electric customers.
All facilities served by NorthWestern Energy were eligible to participate.
November 2007
“The blunt truth about the politics of climate change is that no country will want to sacrifice its economy in order to meet this challenge, but all economies know that the only sensible long term way of developing is to do it on a sustainable basis.” —Tony Blair, former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom
NEWS & NOTES
U.S. Forest Service Installs Solar System on Ennis Facility
2007 Nobel Peace Prize Focuses on Climate Change
NREL to Dramatically Increase Use of Renewable Energy
German University Wins 2007 Solar Decathlon
DOE Provides $30 Million to Jump Start Bioenergy Research Centers
DOE Announces $20 Million to Develop Advanced Batteries for Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles
$2 Million Available for Tribal Renewable Energy Projects
EPA-DOE Release Fuel Economy Lists for 2008 Models
New Energy Education Website Serves as Curriculum Tool
FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES
Community Development and Affordable Housing
QUESTION OF THE WEEK
What are the features of ENERGY STAR qualified new homes?
CASE STUDY OF THE MONTH
Gold Dust Apartments, Missoula
NOVEMBER 2007
NEWS & NOTES
U.S. Forest Service Installs Solar System on Ennis Facility
Ennis is home to a new solar electric system, installed on the U.S. Forest Service Building there. According to this report in The Montana Standard, the building installed one solar array earlier this summer and a second array in October. NorthWestern Energy provided funding for the project through its Universal Systems Benefits fund. The system will produce an estimated 20,000 to 25,000 kilowatt hours of electricity each year — about a third of the total annual consumption for the building. More…
2007 Nobel Peace Prize Focuses on Climate Change
The Norwegian Nobel Committee has decided that the Nobel Peace Prize for 2007 is to be shared, in two equal parts, between the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and former Vice President Al Gore for their efforts to build up and disseminate greater knowledge about man-made climate change, and to lay the foundations for the measures that are needed to counteract such change. Gore has for a long time been one of the world's leading environmentalist politicians. However, "The climate crisis is not a political issue, it is a moral and spiritual challenge to all of humanity,” he said. More…
NREL to Dramatically Increase Use of Renewable Energy
DOE recently held a groundbreaking ceremony for a highly efficient and “green” Research Support Facility and also announced two major renewable power projects at the Department’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). These projects further President Bush’s to increase the use of clean, renewable energy and maximize energy efficiency across the federal government. NREL’s new Research Support Facility promises to be one of the most “green” buildings ever constructed; the new Renewable Fuel Heating Plant will use biomass to cut NREL’s future natural gas use by 75 percent; and the Mesa Top PV Project – a new five-acre photovoltaic array, and one of the largest solar power systems in Colorado – will help power the lab’s main campus.
These projects underscore NREL’s role in advancing DOE’s Transformational Energy Action Management (TEAM) Initiative, a Department-wide effort to maximize energy efficiency and renewable energy generation across the DOE complex. TEAM Initiative puts DOE on an aggressive footing toward meeting and possibly exceeding President Bush’s executive over to reduce energy use across the federal government. Read the full press release.
German University Wins 2007 Solar Decathlon
Germany ’s Technische Universität Darmstadt has earned top honors in the U.S. Department of Energy’s Solar Decathlon competition on the National Mall in Washington, DC . Over the past two weeks, the 2007 Solar Decathlon challenged twenty university-led teams from the U.S. and as far away as Puerto Rico, Spain, Germany, and Canada to design, build, and operate the most attractive and energy-efficient solar-powered home. Students competed in ten areas, ranging from architecture, livability, and comfort, to how well the homes provided energy for space heating and cooling, hot water, lighting, and appliances. Technische Universität Darmstadt earned 888.45 points out of a possible 1,200 to win the competition, followed by University of Maryland with 872.45 points and Santa Clara University with 860.80 points. More...
DOE Provides $30 Million to Jump Start Bioenergy Research Centers
The U.S. Department of Energy has invested nearly $30 million to accelerate the start-up of its three new Bioenergy Research Centers, bringing total DOE Bioenergy Research Center investment to over $400 million. The three DOE Bioenergy Research Centers—located in Oak Ridge , Tennessee ; Madison , Wisconsin ; and near Berkeley , California —selected by DOE this June, bring together multidisciplinary teams of leading scientists to advance research needed to make cellulosic ethanol and other biofuels commercially viable on a national scale, a key part of President Bush’s Advanced Energy Initiative Twenty in Ten Plan. The $9.97 million per Center announced today enables the three Centers to immediately begin research activities and comes in addition to the $375 million (over five years) DOE announced it would invest. More…
DOE Announces $20 Million to Develop Advanced Batteries for Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles
DOE has announced that it will invest nearly $20 million in plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) research. Five projects have been selected for negotiation of awards under DOE's collaboration with the United States Advanced Battery Consortium (USABC) for $17.2 million in DOE funding for PHEV battery development projects and; DOE will provide nearly $2 million to the University of Michigan (U-M) to spearhead a study exploring the future of PHEVs. DOE funding announced today will help advance President Bush's Twenty in Ten Plan, which aims to displace 20 percent of gasoline usage by 2017 through greater use of clean, renewable fuels and increased vehicle efficiency. PHEVs have the potential to displace a large amount of gasoline by delivering up to 40 miles of electric range without recharging – a distance that would include most daily roundtrip commutes. More…
$2 Million Available for Tribal Renewable Energy Projects
DOE has announced that it will provide as much as $2 million to 15 Native American tribes and Alaskan villages for renewable energy projects. Six of those selected will study the feasibility of using renewable energy technologies on tribal lands, while nine will take first steps in implementing such technologies. DOE's Tribal Energy Program will also provide technical assistance for the projects. The projects will take place in Alaska, California, Montana, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, and Wisconsin. Most of the selected tribes and villages will have some cost share in their projects.
In further demonstration of its commitment to supporting tribal efforts, DOE has created the Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs, headed by the newly appointed Deputy Assistant Secretary for Intergovernmental and External Affairs, Steven J. Morello. See the DOE press release and the Tribal Energy Program website.
Honda Hybrids Still Qualify for Tax Credit
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced that purchasers of qualified Honda hybrid vehicles may continue to claim the Alternative Motor Vehicle Credit. The announcement comes after the IRS concluded its quarterly review of the number of hybrid vehicles sold. The credit amount and make and model of qualified vehicles sold are:
- Honda Accord Hybrid, Model Year 2005: $650
- Honda Accord Hybrid, Model Year 2007: $1,300
- Honda Accord Hybrid Navi, Model Year 2007: $1,300
- Honda Civic Hybrid, Model Year 2007: $2,100
EPA-DOE Release Fuel Economy Lists for 2008 Models
EPA and DOE have released the 2008 Fuel Economy Guide to help consumers make well-informed choices when purchasing new vehicles.
"Greater fuel efficiency is something we must approach more aggressively, effectively and creatively than we have over the past 30 years," Secretary of Energy Samuel W. Bodman said. "The president's ambitious Twenty in Ten Plan forces us not only to approach increased vehicle efficiency like never before, but significantly reforming CAFE standards in a way where safety remains a priority."
Data show that hybrid vehicles continue to lead the government's fuel economy ratings and hybrid technology can be effectively used to improve fuel economy. The Toyota Prius tops the list at 48 mpg city and 45 mpg highway. More hybrid models are available than ever - including SUVs as well as cars - giving consumers greater choices when shopping for fuel efficient vehicles.
Fuel economy estimates, which appear on the window stickers of all new cars and light trucks prior to sale, are determined by tests that manufacturers and EPA conduct according to EPA specifications. This year's label values are based on new test methods EPA finalized in December 2006. The new methods are designed to better account for actual driving conditions that can lower fuel economy, such as higher speed driving, use of air conditioning and cold weather operation. Because of the new methods, fuel economy estimates for all vehicles will generally be lower than those of last year.
To view the guide and for tips on increasing vehicle efficiency, visit www.fueleconomy.gov/
New Energy Education Website Serves as Curriculum Tool
DOE has launched a new website called Get Smart about Energy! K-12 Energy Lessons and Activities, a curriculum enhancement tool for K-12 students. The website includes 300 hands-on classroom activities, all of which are aligned with the National Science Education Standards and focus on energy, energy efficiency, and renewable energy. Teacher guides are included with many of the lessons, and all the materials are free and reproducible. The goal of the project is to equip today's students with the knowledge and resources to develop cutting-edge energy technologies in the future. More…
FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES
Community Development and Affordable Housing
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) requests proposals for Capacity Building for Community Development and Affordable Housing. Lead applicant organizations are identified, though partnership opportunities may exist. Areas of interest include, but are not limited to: Acquisition, construction, or rehabilitation of housing for low-income families and persons, and community and economic development activities that create jobs for low-income persons. Some $29.59 million is expected to be available.Responses are due December 12, 2007 . For more information, contact Karen Daly at [email protected].
QUESTION OF THE WEEK
Q: What are the features of ENERGY STAR qualified new homes?
A: To earn the ENERGY STAR, a home must meet guidelines for energy efficiency set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. These homes are at least 15% more energy efficient than homes built to the 2004 International Residential Code (IRC), and include additional energy-saving features that typically make them 20–30% more efficient than standard homes.
And with homebuyers increasingly interested in green building, energy efficiency is the place to start. That's because the energy used in homes often comes from the burning of fossil fuels at power plants, which contributes to smog, acid rain, and risks of global warming. So, the less energy used, the less air pollution generated. And the easy way to make sure a new home is energy efficient is to look for the blue ENERGY STAR mark, the government-backed symbol for energy efficiency. Learn more about how Green Begins with ENERGY STAR Blue).
Any home three stories or less can earn the ENERGY STAR label if it has been verified to meet EPA's guidelines, including: single family, attached, and low-rise multi-family homes; manufactured homes; systems-built homes (e.g., SIP, ICF, or modular construction); log homes, concrete homes; and even existing retrofitted homes.
ENERGY STAR qualified homes can include a variety of 'tried-and-true' energy-efficient features that contribute to improved home quality and homeowner comfort, and to lower energy demand and reduced air pollution:
1. Effective Insulation
Properly installed and inspected insulation in floors, walls, and attics ensures even temperatures throughout the house, reduced energy use, and increased comfort. Learn more about Properly Installed Insulation.
2. High-Performance Windows
Energy-efficient windows employ advanced technologies, such as protective coatings and improved frames, to help keep heat in during winter and out during summer. These windows also block damaging ultraviolet sunlight that can discolor carpets and furnishings. Learn more about Qualified Windows.
3. Tight Construction and Ducts
Sealing holes and cracks in the home's "envelope" and in heating and cooling duct systems helps reduce drafts, moisture, dust, pollen, and noise. A tightly sealed home improves comfort and indoor air quality while reducing utility and maintenance. Learn more about Efficient Duct Systems.
4. Efficient Heating and Cooling Equipment
In addition to using less energy to operate, energy-efficient heating and cooling systems can be quieter, reduce indoor humidity, and improve the overall comfort of the home. When properly installed into a tightly sealed home, this equipment won't have to work so hard to heat and cool the home. Learn more about:
5. Efficient Products
ENERGY STAR qualified homes may also be equipped with ENERGY STAR qualified products — lighting fixtures, compact fluorescent bulbs, ventilation fans, and appliances, such as refrigerators, dishwashers, and washing machines. Learn more about ENERGY STAR qualified products:
6. Third-Party Verification
With the help of independent Home Energy Raters, ENERGY STAR builder partners choose the most appropriate energy-saving features for their homes. Additionally, raters conduct onsite testing and inspections to verify the energy efficiency measures, as well as insulation, air tightness, and duct sealing details. Learn more about Independent Inspection and Testing. (Source: EnergyStar.gov)
CASE STUDY OF THE MONTH
Gold Dust Apartments, Missoula
MISSOULA , MT — Downtown Missoula’s newest affordable rental housing opened its doors in February. The Gold Dust Apartments, developed by Missoula-based nonprofit homeWORD, offers 18 units at affordable prices in a centrally located area within walking distance of downtown attractions and public transit.
The Missoula-based architectural firm, MacArthur, Means & Wells, which specializes in sustainable planning and alternative building techniques, designed the Gold Dust Apartments. Along with the 16-kilowatt solar electric system which will produce more than one third of the electric energy supply for the building, the Gold Dust offers 23 energy-efficient and sustainable features. The solar electric system was designed and installed by Solar Plexus of Missoula.
The apartment complex features such energy-efficiency and sustainable features such as in-slab radiant concrete floors, high efficiency fluorescent lighting, Energy Star clothes washers and gas-fired clothes dryers, water conserving plumbing fixtures, wheatboard cabinets and recycled materials throughout the property.
The Gold Dust received support from NorthWestern Energy in the form of a grant from the Universal System Benefits Fund for energy upgrades, including the solar electric system, energy efficient lighting, and energy efficient washers and dryers.
More detailed information about the project is available at www.designadvisor.org/green/gold_dust.htm
For more information on the Gold Dust Apartments, contact Ren Essene: 406-543-3550.
December 2007
“We simply must balance our demand for energy with our rapidly shrinking resources. By acting now we can control our future instead of letting the future control us.” —Former President Jimmy Carter
NEWS & NOTES
Montana Lags Behind Other Northwest States in Wind Power Development
EPA Announces 2008 Renewable Fuels Standard
AWEA Increases Projections for 2007 Wind Installations
Wind Energy Wind Leads 2006 Increase in Renewable Energy Consumption
EPA-DOE Release Fuel Economy Lists for 2008 Models
Utility Energy Efficiency Vision Can Save Billions of Dollars While Fighting Climate Change
President Clinton Announces Major Partnerships to Retrofit Public and Private Buildings Nationwide
177-Megawatt Solar Thermal Power Project Announced in California
San Francisco Launches SFGreasecycle Program
FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES
Solar America Cities 2008
QUESTION OF THE MONTH
What are the main elements of passive solar home design?
CASE STUDY OF THE MONTH
U.S. Forest Service Building , Ennis
NEWS & NOTES
Montana Lags Behind Other Northwest States in Wind Power Development
While Montana has a decent number of wind energy installations, it falls behind other states in the Northwest and Plains states, according to this report from The Montana Standard . Montana 's wind installations total about 145 megawatts, producing roughly enough power for 50,000 homes. In comparison, Wyoming has about double Montana s capacity, and Washington , Minnesota and Iowa each have nearly 1,000 megawatts installed. While supporters believe that Montana will share in the significant wind energy growth happening in the region, there are a number of barriers that could stand in the way, such as a lack of transmission lines, a shortage of “firming power,” and a perceived reluctance on the part of NorthWestern Energy and electric co-ops about buying and encouraging more wind power.
www.mtstandard.com/articles/2007/09/23/business/hjjcjahhhggdgg.txt
EPA Announces 2008 Renewable Fuels Standard
EPA is setting a new renewable fuels standard ( RFS ) of 4.66 percent to meet the 2005 Energy Policy Act's mandate that at least 5.4 billion gallons of renewable fuels be blended into transportation gasoline in 2008. Based on the standard, each party determines the minimum volume of renewable fuel that it must ensure is used in its motor vehicle fuel. The standard for 2007 was 4.02 percent, equating to roughly 4.7 billion gallons. The overall volume target increases every year, reaching 7.5 billion gallons in 2012. The Energy Policy Act requires EPA to annually determine the standard—which applies to refiners, importers and non-oxygenate blenders of gasoline—by Nov. 30 for the following year.
The RFS program, which formally began last September, creates new markets for farm products, increases energy security, and promotes the development of advanced technologies that would greatly expand renewable and alternative fuels. It also serves as one of the many pieces to help inform the greenhouse gas regulation that EPA and federal partners are developing under an Executive Order issued by President Bush in May. More information on the RFS Notice of 2008 Requirement is available at www.epa.gov/otaq/renewablefuels .
AWEA Increases Projections for 2007 Wind Installations
Continuing a major growth trend, the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) recently announced a substantial increase in the projected installation of new wind energy facilities in 2007.
Previous projections for a record-setting 3,000 megawatts (MW) of new wind power capacity in 2007 have now been raised: AWEA reports that the U.S. wind energy industry is currently on track to complete a total 4,000 MW in 2007, shattering its 2006 record of 2,454 MW, and generating enough new electricity to power the equivalent of over one million homes.
In its third quarter market report, AWEA also reports that the industry has already added over 2,300 MW of generating capacity to the nation's electrical grid so far this year with a total of more than 5,000 MW in various stages of construction, establishing wind as one of the largest sources of new power in the country today.
www.awea.org/newsroom/releases/AWEA_Quarterly_Market_Report_110707.html
Wind Energy Wind Leads 2006 Increase in Renewable Energy Consumption
A new report from DOE's Energy Information Administration (EIA) concludes that the use of renewable energy in the United States increased nearly 7% in 2006. According to the report, wind power topped the list, increasing by 45% in 2006, followed by biofuels, which increased 27.6%. In 2006, ethanol provided 4% of the volume of finished gasoline produced in the United States while consuming 14% of the nation's corn crop. Hydropower production also increased by 6.9% in 2006, reaching its highest level since 2003. See the EIA report at www.eia.doe.gov/cneaf/solar.renewables/page/prelim_trends/rea_prereport.html .
EPA-DOE Release Fuel Economy Lists for 2008 Models
EPA and DOE have released the 2008 Fuel Economy Guide to help consumers make well-informed choices when purchasing new vehicles.
"Greater fuel efficiency is something we must approach more aggressively, effectively and creatively than we have over the past 30 years," Secretary of Energy Samuel W. Bodman said. "The president's ambitious Twenty in Ten Plan forces us not only to approach increased vehicle efficiency like never before, but significantly reforming CAFE standards in a way where safety remains a priority."
Data show that hybrid vehicles continue to lead the government's fuel economy ratings and hybrid technology can be effectively used to improve fuel economy. The Toyota Prius tops the list at 48 mpg city and 45 mpg highway. More hybrid models are available than ever, including SUVs as well as cars - giving consumers greater choices when shopping for fuel efficient vehicles.
Fuel economy estimates, which appear on the window stickers of all new cars and light trucks prior to sale, are determined by tests that manufacturers and EPA conduct according to EPA specifications. This year's label values are based on new test methods EPA finalized in December 2006. The new methods are designed to better account for actual driving conditions that can lower fuel economy, such as higher speed driving, use of air conditioning and cold weather operation. Because of the new methods, fuel economy estimates for all vehicles will generally be lower than those of last year.
To view the guide and for tips on increasing vehicle efficiency, visit www.fueleconomy.gov/
Utility Energy Efficiency Vision Can Save Billions of Dollars While Fighting Climate Change
More than 60 energy, environmental and other organizations have collaborated on a new report that could save Americans more than $500 billion in energy costs over 25 years and reduce annual greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those from 90 million vehicles. This report, the National Action Plan for Energy Efficiency Vision for 2025, provides a framework for states, utilities and other stakeholders to consider when seeking policies and programs to achieve all cost effective energy efficiency measures.
"Environmental responsibility is everyone's responsibility – and today I'm pleased to see states, utilities and energy customers are taking this motto to heart," said EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson. "By committing to conservation, Americans are making the vision for an energy efficient future a reality today."
The action plan, launched in 2006, is facilitated by the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy. The plan provides five recommendations for helping states and utilities overcome policy, regulatory, and other barriers that limit investment in energy efficiency even when investment in more efficient homes, buildings and industries would cost less than new supply and would lead to overall lower energy bills. Along with the vision for 2025, the Action Plan
Leadership Group released a number of 'how-to' resources to help parties meet energy efficiency commitments and announced new commitments under the action plan from more than 30 organizations. The list of organizations and their new commitments can be found at www.epa.gov/eeactionplan under Leadership Commitments. Read the full press release at
www.epa.gov/cleanenergy/pdf/vision_press_release.pdf .
President Clinton Announces Major Partnerships to Retrofit Public and Private Buildings Nationwide
President Bill Clinton has announced several new partnerships to improve the energy efficiency of hundreds of millions of square feet of public and private real estate throughout the United States .
The Clinton Climate Initiative (CCI) will partner with the City of Chicago to enable a green overhaul of privately-owned housing around the city, as well as two major landmarks, the Sears Tower and the Merchandise Mart— the country's tallest and largest buildings, respectively. CCI will also partner with GE Real Estate to identify and implement building retrofit projects across GE Real Estate's global portfolio. In addition, along with the US Green Building Council (USGBC) and the American College and University Presidents Climate Commitment (ACUPCC), CCI will create a Green Schools Program to retrofit schools and universities across America .
www.clintonfoundation.org/mediacenter-press-releases.htm
177-Megawatt Solar Thermal Power Project Announced in California
Pacific Gas and Electric Company has entered into a 177-megawatt solar thermal power purchasing agreement with Ausra Inc. The project, to be located in central California , is being developed by Ausra.
“Today's agreement between PG&E and Ausra highlights how clean energy will create jobs in California while delivering a reliable source of renewable energy,” said Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. "I'm pleased to see California companies rising to the challenge of AB 32, California 's historic initiative to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change. Clearly, California continues to lead the nation in clean energy research, development and generation.”
The plant, to be located in San Luis Obispo County , Calif. , is expected to begin generating power in 2010. Ausra has filed its Application for Certification for this plant with the California Energy Commission, which must grant approval before construction begins.
www.pge.com/news/news_releases/q4_2007/071105.html
San Francisco Launches SFGreasecycle Program
In an effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, combat climate change and curb the growing number of clogged sewers plaguing City residents and businesses, Mayor Gavin Newsom has launched an innovative solution to collect fats, oil and grease (FOG) free of charge from City restaurants and turn them into biofuel for City-owned vehicles. SFGreasecycle is the nation's first citywide program to turn FOG into fuel for municipal fleets and will save residents and businesses money, unclog City sewers, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The first SFGreasecycle restaurant waste grease pickup occurred today at Puccini and Pinetti in Union Square .
"San Francisco 's entrepreneurial and environmental spirit is once again front and center with our innovative biodiesel creation program," said Mayor Newsom. "Our program will serve as a model for cities throughout the world who aim to transform their grease waste into useable, sustainable energy."
SFGreasecycle is a program that was developed by the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) as a sustainable alternative to combat sewer blockages caused in part by excess cooking oils and fats discharged down drains from restaurants and homes. Each year, the SFPUC estimates that 50% of sewer emergency calls are related to backups caused by grease blockages costing their ratepayers $3.5 million a year in repairs.
http://sfgov.org/site/mayor_index.asp?id=71394
http://sfgreasecycle.org/
FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES
Solar America Cities 2008
The U.S. Department of Energy requests proposals for Solar America Initiative Market Transformation: Solar America Cities 2008. Through this initiative, DOE seeks the formation of strategic partnerships with U.S. cities as part of the Solar America Initiative. These Federal-city partnerships are intended to accelerate the adoption of solar technology across the nation by engaging city governments as significant users of electricity, key intermediaries to other end users within their jurisdiction, and regulatory entities. Responses are due January 10, 2008. See the full RFP. For more information, contact Nancy Kiyota at [email protected] .
QUESTION OF THE WEEK
Q: What are the main elements of passive solar home design?
A. The following five elements constitute a complete passive solar home design. Each performs a separate function, but all five must work together for the design to be successful.
Aperture (Collector)
The large glass (window) area through which sunlight enters the building. Typically, the aperture(s) should face within 30 degrees of true south and should not be shaded by other buildings or trees from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day during the heating season.
Absorber
The hard, darkened surface of the storage element. This surface—which could be that of a masonry wall, floor, or partition (phase change material), or that of a water container—sits in the direct path of sunlight. Sunlight hits the surface and is absorbed as heat.
Thermal mass
The materials that retain or store the heat produced by sunlight. The difference between the absorber and thermal mass, although they often form the same wall or floor, is that the absorber is an exposed surface whereas thermal mass is the material below or behind that surface.
Distribution
The method by which solar heat circulates from the collection and storage points to different areas of the house. A strictly passive design will use the three natural heat transfer modes —conduction, convection, and radiation—exclusively. In some applications, however, fans, ducts, and blowers may help with the distribution of heat through the house.
Control
Roof overhangs can be used to shade the aperture area during summer months. Other elements that control under- and/or overheating include electronic sensing devices, such as a differential thermostat that signals a fan to turn on; operable vents and dampers that allow or restrict heat flow; low-emissivity blinds ; and awnings . (Source: EERE www.eere.energy.gov/consumer/your_home/designing_remodeling/index.cfm/mytopic=10270 )
CASE STUDY OF THE MONTH
U.S. Forest Service Installs Solar System on Ennis Facility
Ennis is home to a new solar electric system, installed on the U.S. Forest Service Building there. According to a report in The Montana Standard , the building installed one solar array earlier this summer and a second array in October 2007. NorthWestern Energy provided funding for the project through its Universal Systems Benefits fund. The system will produce an estimated 20,000 to 25,000 kilowatt hours of electricity each year — about a third of the total annual consumption for the building.
Read the full story in The Montana Standard www.mtstandard.com/articles/2007/10/23/butte/hjjcijhgjigeib.txt
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