January 20, 2010
U.S. Department of Energy Secretary Steven Chu today announced that the Department's National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) will invest up to $12 million in total funding—$10 million from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act—in four companies to support the development of early stage solar energy technologies and help them advance to full commercial scale. The goal of this effort is to help further expand a clean energy economy and make solar energy more cost-competitive with conventional forms of electricity.
"Expanding the solar power industry in the United States can create new jobs, reduce carbon pollution, and save consumers money," said Secretary Chu. "By partnering with NREL, these companies will be able to gain from their expertise, accelerate the pace of innovation and help get technologies to market faster."
Companies awarded under DOE's Photovoltaic Incubator Program will work with NREL to transition prototype and pre-commercial PV technologies into pilot and full-scale manufacturing. The anticipated subcontracts, up to $3 million each, will be awarded as 18-month phased subcontracts with payment made upon completion of project milestones.
Through the Recovery Act, the DOE is investing more than $117 million in developing and deploying solar energy technologies. While supporting cutting edge research and development on photovoltaics and concentrated solar power at the national laboratories, the Department is also making significant investments in training solar systems installers, supporting the growth of grid-tied solar photovoltaic systems, and the use of solar energy in U.S. cities.
The partnership projects announced today include:
California
Alta Devices, Inc. (Santa Clara, California) up to $3 million
Alta Devices will focus efforts on developing an innovative high-efficiency (>20%), low-cost compound-semiconductor photovoltaic module, with market entry expected in 2011.
Solar Junction Corp. (San Jose, California) up to $3 million
Solar Junction will develop a manufacturing process to produce a very high efficiency multi-junction cell. These high performing cells will be utilized by concentrating PV (CPV) manufacturers to produce lower cost CPV systems.
Tetra Sun (Saratoga, California) up to $3 million
Tetra Sun will focus efforts on a back surface passivation for high efficiency crystalline silicon solar cells. This effort will result in a high efficiency low-cost C-Si solar cell.
North Carolina
Semprius, Inc. (Durham, North Carolina) up to $3 million
Semprius will focus efforts towards a massively parallel, microcell-based CPV receiver. This approach combines the benefits of unique-to-solar manufacturing techniques with the performance and operational benefits of microcell concentrating photovoltaics.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Friday, January 15, 2010
GSHPs given the thumbs up
Geothermal International has welcomed a new report from the Environment Agency which suggests that more than one million ground source heat pump (GSHP) systems could be installed in the UK over the next decade.
The Environment Agency is calling on the government to offer more financial incentives to home owners and businesses to take up this low carbon, energy efficient form of heating and cooling through the forthcoming Renewable Heat Incentive.
In the report it is also predicting that, with the right financial support, GSHP systems, which tap into the natural warmth stored underground could, by 2020, provide nearly 1/3 of the UK’s renewable heat.
Patrick Sherriff, sales and marketing director of Geothermal International, an installer of GSHP systems, said, “We have always believed that GSHP systems can make a huge contribution to the UK’s campaign to combat climate change by cutting carbon emissions.
It is heartening that the Environment Agency is now so convinced that GSHP systems have a major role to play in fighting global warming that it is urging the government to offer more financial support.
We are finding that more and more organisations are realising they can reduce building running costs while helping to save the planet by installing GSHP systems to heat and cool their premises.
The figure of one million systems being installed by 2020 is far from pie in the sky - GSHP systems are truly a heating and cooling solution for the 21st Century.”
The Environment Agency is calling on the government to offer more financial incentives to home owners and businesses to take up this low carbon, energy efficient form of heating and cooling through the forthcoming Renewable Heat Incentive.
In the report it is also predicting that, with the right financial support, GSHP systems, which tap into the natural warmth stored underground could, by 2020, provide nearly 1/3 of the UK’s renewable heat.
Patrick Sherriff, sales and marketing director of Geothermal International, an installer of GSHP systems, said, “We have always believed that GSHP systems can make a huge contribution to the UK’s campaign to combat climate change by cutting carbon emissions.
It is heartening that the Environment Agency is now so convinced that GSHP systems have a major role to play in fighting global warming that it is urging the government to offer more financial support.
We are finding that more and more organisations are realising they can reduce building running costs while helping to save the planet by installing GSHP systems to heat and cool their premises.
The figure of one million systems being installed by 2020 is far from pie in the sky - GSHP systems are truly a heating and cooling solution for the 21st Century.”
Thursday, January 14, 2010
New Solar Pond Distillation System
Researchers at the University of Nevada, Reno are developing a solar technique that will take care of the ecosystems of terminus lakes around the world. This new solar distillation system will help in removing the salinity of the lake water. This will be possible with the help of a specialized low-cost solar pond and patented membrane distillation system deriving power by renewable energy. continued...
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Seven Priorities for EPA’s Future MEMORANDUM From: Lisa P. Jackson, Administrator
Colleagues:
Almost one year ago, I began my work as Administrator. It has been a deeply fulfilling 12 months and a wonderful homecoming for me. As our first year together draws to a close, we must now look to the tasks ahead.
In my First Day Memo, I outlined five priorities for my time as Administrator. We have made enormous strides on all five, and our achievements reflect your hard work and dedication. By working with our senior policy team, listening to your input and learning from the experiences of the last 12 months, we have strengthened our focus and expanded the list of priorities. Listed below are seven key themes to focus the work of our agency.
Taking Action on Climate Change: Last year saw historic progress in the fight against climate change, with a range of greenhouse gas reduction initiatives. We must continue this critical effort and ensure compliance with the law. We will continue to support the President and Congress in enacting clean energy and climate legislation. Using the Clean Air Act, we will finalize our mobile source rules and provide a framework for continued improvements in that sector. We will build on the success of ENERGY STAR to expand cost-saving energy conservation and efficiency programs. And we will continue to develop common-sense solutions for reducing GHG emissions from large stationary sources like power plants. In all of this, we must also recognize that climate change will affect other parts of our core mission, such as protecting air and water quality, and we must include those considerations in our future plans.
Improving Air Quality,: American communities face serious health and environmental challenges from air pollution. We have already proposed stronger ambient air quality standards for ozone, which will help millions of American breathe easier and live healthier. Building on that, EPA will develop a comprehensive strategy for a cleaner and more efficient power sector, with strong but achievable emission reduction goals for SO2, NOx, mercury and other air toxics. We will strengthen our ambient air quality standards for pollutants such as PM, SO2 and NO2 and will achieve additional reductions in air toxics from a range of industrial facilities. Improved monitoring, permitting and enforcement will be critical building blocks for air quality improvement.
Assuring the Safety of Chemicals: One of my highest priorities is to make significant and long overdue progress in assuring the safety of chemicals in our products, our environment and our bodies. Last year I announced principles for modernizing the Toxic Substances Control Act. Separately, we are shifting EPA’s focus to address high-concern chemicals and filling data gaps on widely produced chemicals in commerce. At the end of 2009, we released our first-ever chemical management plans for four groups of substances, and more plans are in the pipeline for 2010. Using our streamlined Integrated Risk Information System, we will continue strong progress toward rigorous, peer-reviewed health assessments on dioxins, arsenic, formaldehyde, TCE and other substances of concern.
Cleaning Up Our Communities: In 2009 EPA made strong cleanup progress by accelerating our Superfund program and confronting significant local environmental challenges like the asbestos Public Health Emergency in Libby, Montana and the coal ash spill in Kingston, Tennessee. Using all the tools at our disposal, including enforcement and compliance efforts, we will continue to focus on making safer, healthier communities. I am committed to maximizing the potential of our brownfields program, particularly to spur environmental cleanup and job creation in disadvantaged communities. We are also developing enhanced strategies for risk reduction in our Superfund program, with stronger partnerships with stakeholders affected by our cleanups.
Protecting America’s Waters: America’s waterbodies are imperiled as never before. Water quality and enforcement programs face complex challenges, from nutrient loadings and stormwater runoff, to invasive species and drinking water contaminants. These challenges demand both traditional and innovative strategies. We will continue comprehensive watershed protection programs for the Chesapeake Bay and Great Lakes. We will initiate measures to address post-construction runoff, water quality impairment from surface mining, and stronger drinking water protection. Recovery Act funding will expand construction of water infrastructure, and we will work with states to develop nutrient limits and launch an Urban Waters initiative. We will also revamp enforcement strategies to achieve greater compliance across the board.
“Expanding the Conversation on Environmentalism and Working for Environmental Justice”: We have begun a new era of outreach and protection for communities historically underrepresented in EPA decision-making. We are building strong working relationships with tribes, communities of color, economically distressed cities and towns, young people and others, but this is just a start. We must include environmental justice principles in all of our decisions. This is an area that calls for innovation and bold thinking, and I am challenging all of our employees to bring vision and creativity to our programs. The protection of vulnerable subpopulations is a top priority, especially with regard to children. Our revitalized Children’s Health Office is bringing a new energy to safeguarding children through all of our enforcement efforts. We will ensure that children’s health protection continues to guide the path forward.
Building Strong State and Tribal Partnerships: States and tribal nations bear important responsibilities for the day-to-day mission of environmental protection, but declining tax revenues and fiscal challenges are pressuring state agencies and tribal governments to do more with fewer resources. Strong partnerships and accountability are more important than ever. EPA must do its part to support state and tribal capacity and, through strengthened oversight, ensure that programs are consistently delivered nationwide. Where appropriate, we will use our own expertise and capacity to bolster state and tribal efforts.
We will also focus on improving EPA’s internal operations, from performance measures to agency processes. We have a complex organization — which is both an asset and a challenge. We will strive to ensure that EPA is a workplace worthy of our top notch workforce. Our success will depend on supporting innovation and creativity in both what we do and how we do it, and I encourage everyone to be part of constructively improving our agency.
These priorities will guide our work in 2010 and the years ahead. They are built around the challenges and opportunities inherent in our mission to protect human health and the environment for all Americans. We will carry out our mission by respecting our core values of science, transparency and the rule of law. I have unlimited confidence in the talent and spirit of our workforce, and I will look to your energy, ideas and passion in the days ahead. I know we will meet these challenges head on, as one EPA.
Sincerely,
Lisa P. Jackson
Almost one year ago, I began my work as Administrator. It has been a deeply fulfilling 12 months and a wonderful homecoming for me. As our first year together draws to a close, we must now look to the tasks ahead.
In my First Day Memo, I outlined five priorities for my time as Administrator. We have made enormous strides on all five, and our achievements reflect your hard work and dedication. By working with our senior policy team, listening to your input and learning from the experiences of the last 12 months, we have strengthened our focus and expanded the list of priorities. Listed below are seven key themes to focus the work of our agency.
Taking Action on Climate Change: Last year saw historic progress in the fight against climate change, with a range of greenhouse gas reduction initiatives. We must continue this critical effort and ensure compliance with the law. We will continue to support the President and Congress in enacting clean energy and climate legislation. Using the Clean Air Act, we will finalize our mobile source rules and provide a framework for continued improvements in that sector. We will build on the success of ENERGY STAR to expand cost-saving energy conservation and efficiency programs. And we will continue to develop common-sense solutions for reducing GHG emissions from large stationary sources like power plants. In all of this, we must also recognize that climate change will affect other parts of our core mission, such as protecting air and water quality, and we must include those considerations in our future plans.
Improving Air Quality,: American communities face serious health and environmental challenges from air pollution. We have already proposed stronger ambient air quality standards for ozone, which will help millions of American breathe easier and live healthier. Building on that, EPA will develop a comprehensive strategy for a cleaner and more efficient power sector, with strong but achievable emission reduction goals for SO2, NOx, mercury and other air toxics. We will strengthen our ambient air quality standards for pollutants such as PM, SO2 and NO2 and will achieve additional reductions in air toxics from a range of industrial facilities. Improved monitoring, permitting and enforcement will be critical building blocks for air quality improvement.
Assuring the Safety of Chemicals: One of my highest priorities is to make significant and long overdue progress in assuring the safety of chemicals in our products, our environment and our bodies. Last year I announced principles for modernizing the Toxic Substances Control Act. Separately, we are shifting EPA’s focus to address high-concern chemicals and filling data gaps on widely produced chemicals in commerce. At the end of 2009, we released our first-ever chemical management plans for four groups of substances, and more plans are in the pipeline for 2010. Using our streamlined Integrated Risk Information System, we will continue strong progress toward rigorous, peer-reviewed health assessments on dioxins, arsenic, formaldehyde, TCE and other substances of concern.
Cleaning Up Our Communities: In 2009 EPA made strong cleanup progress by accelerating our Superfund program and confronting significant local environmental challenges like the asbestos Public Health Emergency in Libby, Montana and the coal ash spill in Kingston, Tennessee. Using all the tools at our disposal, including enforcement and compliance efforts, we will continue to focus on making safer, healthier communities. I am committed to maximizing the potential of our brownfields program, particularly to spur environmental cleanup and job creation in disadvantaged communities. We are also developing enhanced strategies for risk reduction in our Superfund program, with stronger partnerships with stakeholders affected by our cleanups.
Protecting America’s Waters: America’s waterbodies are imperiled as never before. Water quality and enforcement programs face complex challenges, from nutrient loadings and stormwater runoff, to invasive species and drinking water contaminants. These challenges demand both traditional and innovative strategies. We will continue comprehensive watershed protection programs for the Chesapeake Bay and Great Lakes. We will initiate measures to address post-construction runoff, water quality impairment from surface mining, and stronger drinking water protection. Recovery Act funding will expand construction of water infrastructure, and we will work with states to develop nutrient limits and launch an Urban Waters initiative. We will also revamp enforcement strategies to achieve greater compliance across the board.
“Expanding the Conversation on Environmentalism and Working for Environmental Justice”: We have begun a new era of outreach and protection for communities historically underrepresented in EPA decision-making. We are building strong working relationships with tribes, communities of color, economically distressed cities and towns, young people and others, but this is just a start. We must include environmental justice principles in all of our decisions. This is an area that calls for innovation and bold thinking, and I am challenging all of our employees to bring vision and creativity to our programs. The protection of vulnerable subpopulations is a top priority, especially with regard to children. Our revitalized Children’s Health Office is bringing a new energy to safeguarding children through all of our enforcement efforts. We will ensure that children’s health protection continues to guide the path forward.
Building Strong State and Tribal Partnerships: States and tribal nations bear important responsibilities for the day-to-day mission of environmental protection, but declining tax revenues and fiscal challenges are pressuring state agencies and tribal governments to do more with fewer resources. Strong partnerships and accountability are more important than ever. EPA must do its part to support state and tribal capacity and, through strengthened oversight, ensure that programs are consistently delivered nationwide. Where appropriate, we will use our own expertise and capacity to bolster state and tribal efforts.
We will also focus on improving EPA’s internal operations, from performance measures to agency processes. We have a complex organization — which is both an asset and a challenge. We will strive to ensure that EPA is a workplace worthy of our top notch workforce. Our success will depend on supporting innovation and creativity in both what we do and how we do it, and I encourage everyone to be part of constructively improving our agency.
These priorities will guide our work in 2010 and the years ahead. They are built around the challenges and opportunities inherent in our mission to protect human health and the environment for all Americans. We will carry out our mission by respecting our core values of science, transparency and the rule of law. I have unlimited confidence in the talent and spirit of our workforce, and I will look to your energy, ideas and passion in the days ahead. I know we will meet these challenges head on, as one EPA.
Sincerely,
Lisa P. Jackson
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
DOE Steps Lead to Significant Increase in Compliance with Energy Efficiency Reporting Requirements
January 12, 2010
The Department of Energy announced today that it has received certifications for over 600,000 residential appliances in 15 different product categories in response to the Department's enhanced energy efficiency enforcement efforts. DOE recently announced that manufacturers had until January 8, 2010 to submit correct energy use data to the Department of Energy before aggressive enforcement actions were taken. The certification data provided by 160 different manufacturers will allow DOE to review manufacturers' compliance with minimum energy efficiency standards and take action to ensure that products are delivering the energy and cost savings required by law. DOE will continue to accept certification reports that were sent by mail and postmarked by January 8th.
"The Department of Energy's newly enhanced enforcement efforts are greatly improving the quality of the energy efficiency information available to DOE and the American consumer," said DOE's General Counsel Scott Blake Harris. "Moving forward, we will aggressively pursue all manufacturers who have failed to comply with these certification requirements or whose products violate the country's energy efficiency standards."
Under federal law, manufacturers of a range of household appliances are required to certify with the Department that their models meet DOE's minimum appliance conservation standards. DOE has made clear that failure to submit these energy use reports violates the Energy Policy Conservation Act of 1975 and will result in enforcement by the Department, including civil penalties or fines.
These certification reports provide DOE with critical information to ensure that American consumers are buying products that deliver significant energy and cost savings. DOE will immediately begin reviewing the filings and will aggressively enforce any violations.
The Department of Energy announced today that it has received certifications for over 600,000 residential appliances in 15 different product categories in response to the Department's enhanced energy efficiency enforcement efforts. DOE recently announced that manufacturers had until January 8, 2010 to submit correct energy use data to the Department of Energy before aggressive enforcement actions were taken. The certification data provided by 160 different manufacturers will allow DOE to review manufacturers' compliance with minimum energy efficiency standards and take action to ensure that products are delivering the energy and cost savings required by law. DOE will continue to accept certification reports that were sent by mail and postmarked by January 8th.
"The Department of Energy's newly enhanced enforcement efforts are greatly improving the quality of the energy efficiency information available to DOE and the American consumer," said DOE's General Counsel Scott Blake Harris. "Moving forward, we will aggressively pursue all manufacturers who have failed to comply with these certification requirements or whose products violate the country's energy efficiency standards."
Under federal law, manufacturers of a range of household appliances are required to certify with the Department that their models meet DOE's minimum appliance conservation standards. DOE has made clear that failure to submit these energy use reports violates the Energy Policy Conservation Act of 1975 and will result in enforcement by the Department, including civil penalties or fines.
These certification reports provide DOE with critical information to ensure that American consumers are buying products that deliver significant energy and cost savings. DOE will immediately begin reviewing the filings and will aggressively enforce any violations.
Energy efficiency incentives lauded [The Press-Enterprise, Riverside, Calif.]
Jan. 10--Home improvement chains and companies that make insulation are cheering federal proposals to give consumers incentives for making energy-efficient improvements to their homes.
But some Inland residents and business owners are reserving judgment until they hear the final details on what has been nicknamed "Cash for Caulkers." Provisions are still being worked out by the White House and Congress.
Like last year's "Cash for Clunkers," which sparked auto sales in the fall with rebates up to $4,500 per vehicle, proponents say the home improvement incentives will help create and save jobs, as well as reduce energy usage and dependence on foreign oil.
In one proposal being considered in the U.S. House, about $20 billion from last year's approved $787 billion stimulus package would go toward home improvement incentives -- possibly ranging from $1,000 to more than $3,000. Supporters say about 5 million homes could be retrofitted, saving owners a total of more than $3 billion annually on energy bills.
Still to be decided is whether incentives take the form of rebates, coupons, tax breaks or a combination. Qualified projects would likely include installing insulation, sealing leaks and updating heating and air conditioning systems.
Already on the way is a national appliance rebate program, starting in March in California, which will give incentives, ranging from $50 to $100, for purchases of energy-efficient refrigerators, dishwashers, clothes washers and dryers.
Both of the energy-oriented programs, whose funding comes from last year's economic recovery package, are expected to boost sales of eco-friendly products, though to what degree is yet to be seen.
Home improvement chains including Home Depot and Lowe's, builder groups such as the California Contractor Exchange, and insulation makers including Dow Chemical have recently applauded plans for "Cash for Caulkers." It is also backed by organizations advocating for low-income consumers, including the National Housing Conference.
Doug Wick, who operates two Inland businesses geared to home improvement, said he's optimistic that new federal efforts will extend the positive results he's seen from recent manufacturer rebates, as well as existing federal incentives.
For instance, several customers took advantage of a tax break, which began last year and runs through the end of 2010, amounting to 30 percent of the cost of installing items like energy-efficient windows, up to $1,500.
"A lot will depend on getting this housing market back on track, and having people being less worried about their jobs, so maybe they'll want to make changes on their homes," said Wick, who owns Redlands Door and Supplies and Doors of Distinction in Riverside.
At Jack Lindgren Builders Hardware in Riverside, second-generation owner Mike Lindgren said he's so far not seeing a rush of contractors or consumers gearing up to capitalize on federal incentives.
"A new energy-efficient door still costs money," Lindgren said. "I hope it gives a kick in the pants to the economy, but I just don't know right now."
REBATES SPUR SALES
Store operators said response so far to appliance-oriented energy incentives indicates customers would likely be receptive to other measures.
Scott Taylor, president of Taylor's Appliance in Riverside, said rebates offered by the city of Riverside, ranging from $100 to $200, have spurred steady sales of energy-efficient washers, dryers and refrigerators for the past several years.
"I don't know if what the state offers will be above and beyond what Riverside offers," Taylor said. "We'll have to see."
Kathryn Gallagher, a Western regional spokeswoman for Home Depot, said the Atlanta-based retailer's sales of energy-friendly lighting, appliances, water heaters and related items have generally been increasing over the past two years. She said that's likely from a combination of recessionary belt-tightening, existing government tax credits, and rising public awareness of energy issues.
In Oregon, which began carrying out the national appliance incentive program in December, the company's stores have seen a steady stream of inquiries, though it's too early to gauge the impact on sales. "People are stopping by and calling in with questions about it -- it's really a matter of education at this point," Gallagher said.
MORE DETAILS
Inland residents like Ernesto Cervantes, 35, of Moreno Valley, said they'd like to see more details before passing judgment on the potential effectiveness of "Cash for Caulkers." But Cervantes said the economy has already prompted his family, including his wife and two children, to be energy conscious -- for instance, buying and using appliances that carry the Energy Star label for energy efficiency.
"I really don't think it will affect our actions all that much," he said of proposed new incentives, as he wrapped up a shopping trip at a local Lowe's store.
Reach Lou Hirsh at 951-368-9559 or lhirsh@PE.com.
To see more of The Press-Enterprise or to subscribe to the newspaper, go to http://www.pe.com.
Copyright (c) 2010, The Press-Enterprise, Riverside, Calif.
Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services. For reprints, email tmsreprints@permissionsgroup.com, call 800-374-7985 or 847-635-6550, send a fax to 847-635-6968, or write to The Permissions Group Inc., 1247 Milwaukee Ave., Suite 303, Glenview, IL 60025, USA.
But some Inland residents and business owners are reserving judgment until they hear the final details on what has been nicknamed "Cash for Caulkers." Provisions are still being worked out by the White House and Congress.
Like last year's "Cash for Clunkers," which sparked auto sales in the fall with rebates up to $4,500 per vehicle, proponents say the home improvement incentives will help create and save jobs, as well as reduce energy usage and dependence on foreign oil.
In one proposal being considered in the U.S. House, about $20 billion from last year's approved $787 billion stimulus package would go toward home improvement incentives -- possibly ranging from $1,000 to more than $3,000. Supporters say about 5 million homes could be retrofitted, saving owners a total of more than $3 billion annually on energy bills.
Still to be decided is whether incentives take the form of rebates, coupons, tax breaks or a combination. Qualified projects would likely include installing insulation, sealing leaks and updating heating and air conditioning systems.
Already on the way is a national appliance rebate program, starting in March in California, which will give incentives, ranging from $50 to $100, for purchases of energy-efficient refrigerators, dishwashers, clothes washers and dryers.
Both of the energy-oriented programs, whose funding comes from last year's economic recovery package, are expected to boost sales of eco-friendly products, though to what degree is yet to be seen.
Home improvement chains including Home Depot and Lowe's, builder groups such as the California Contractor Exchange, and insulation makers including Dow Chemical have recently applauded plans for "Cash for Caulkers." It is also backed by organizations advocating for low-income consumers, including the National Housing Conference.
Doug Wick, who operates two Inland businesses geared to home improvement, said he's optimistic that new federal efforts will extend the positive results he's seen from recent manufacturer rebates, as well as existing federal incentives.
For instance, several customers took advantage of a tax break, which began last year and runs through the end of 2010, amounting to 30 percent of the cost of installing items like energy-efficient windows, up to $1,500.
"A lot will depend on getting this housing market back on track, and having people being less worried about their jobs, so maybe they'll want to make changes on their homes," said Wick, who owns Redlands Door and Supplies and Doors of Distinction in Riverside.
At Jack Lindgren Builders Hardware in Riverside, second-generation owner Mike Lindgren said he's so far not seeing a rush of contractors or consumers gearing up to capitalize on federal incentives.
"A new energy-efficient door still costs money," Lindgren said. "I hope it gives a kick in the pants to the economy, but I just don't know right now."
REBATES SPUR SALES
Store operators said response so far to appliance-oriented energy incentives indicates customers would likely be receptive to other measures.
Scott Taylor, president of Taylor's Appliance in Riverside, said rebates offered by the city of Riverside, ranging from $100 to $200, have spurred steady sales of energy-efficient washers, dryers and refrigerators for the past several years.
"I don't know if what the state offers will be above and beyond what Riverside offers," Taylor said. "We'll have to see."
Kathryn Gallagher, a Western regional spokeswoman for Home Depot, said the Atlanta-based retailer's sales of energy-friendly lighting, appliances, water heaters and related items have generally been increasing over the past two years. She said that's likely from a combination of recessionary belt-tightening, existing government tax credits, and rising public awareness of energy issues.
In Oregon, which began carrying out the national appliance incentive program in December, the company's stores have seen a steady stream of inquiries, though it's too early to gauge the impact on sales. "People are stopping by and calling in with questions about it -- it's really a matter of education at this point," Gallagher said.
MORE DETAILS
Inland residents like Ernesto Cervantes, 35, of Moreno Valley, said they'd like to see more details before passing judgment on the potential effectiveness of "Cash for Caulkers." But Cervantes said the economy has already prompted his family, including his wife and two children, to be energy conscious -- for instance, buying and using appliances that carry the Energy Star label for energy efficiency.
"I really don't think it will affect our actions all that much," he said of proposed new incentives, as he wrapped up a shopping trip at a local Lowe's store.
Reach Lou Hirsh at 951-368-9559 or lhirsh@PE.com.
To see more of The Press-Enterprise or to subscribe to the newspaper, go to http://www.pe.com.
Copyright (c) 2010, The Press-Enterprise, Riverside, Calif.
Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services. For reprints, email tmsreprints@permissionsgroup.com, call 800-374-7985 or 847-635-6550, send a fax to 847-635-6968, or write to The Permissions Group Inc., 1247 Milwaukee Ave., Suite 303, Glenview, IL 60025, USA.
Friday, January 8, 2010
Department of Energy Announces Inaugural ARPA-E Energy Innovation Summit
January 07, 2010
U.S. Secretary of Energy Steven Chu announced today that the inaugural "ARPA-E Energy Innovation Summit" will take place March 1-3, 2010 at the Gaylord National Hotel and Convention Center in Washington, D.C. The event, hosted by the U.S. Department of Energy's Advanced Research Projects Agency - Energy (ARPA-E) and organized by the Clean Technology and Sustainable Industries Organization (CTSI), with key support from the National Venture Capital Association (NVCA) and the Kauffman Foundation, will serve as a forum for the nation's energy leaders to share ideas, collaborate, and identify key technology opportunities and challenges.
Summit participants will include members of the scientific and research communities, investors, technology entrepreneurs, corporations with an interest in clean energy technologies, policymakers, and government officials.
"I am especially excited about the first ever ARPA-E Energy Innovation Summit," said Secretary Chu. "This conference will bring together the nation's top energy leaders and members of the scientific community to begin building the next Industrial Revolution in clean energy technologies, which will create new jobs and help reduce our carbon footprint," said Secretary Chu.
The summit will spotlight some of ARPA-E's first round of 37 winning research projects and will for the first time showcase many of the more than 250 highly-rated research projects—out of the nearly 3,700 concept papers submitted—from the organization's first $150 million solicitation. Participants will hear from distinguished speakers such as Secretary Chu, ARPA-E Director Dr. Arun Majumdar, and a number of the nation's leading energy innovators. Panel topics will include identifying game-changing technologies, building regional energy innovation clusters, the role of energy in our national security, and successfully developing and commercializing energy technology breakthroughs. In addition, the conference will be preceded by a one-day program of workshops where researchers, entrepreneurs and investors can meet ARPA-E's Program Directors, discuss the goals and directions for ARPA-E's technology program areas, and learn the outcomes of previous workshops on these topics. The pre-conference day also will offer tutorials on topics such as best practices for commercializing breakthrough energy technologies and taking advantage of the SBIR program. For more information and to register for the summit, visit the ARPA-E Energy Innovation Summit Web site.
U.S. Secretary of Energy Steven Chu announced today that the inaugural "ARPA-E Energy Innovation Summit" will take place March 1-3, 2010 at the Gaylord National Hotel and Convention Center in Washington, D.C. The event, hosted by the U.S. Department of Energy's Advanced Research Projects Agency - Energy (ARPA-E) and organized by the Clean Technology and Sustainable Industries Organization (CTSI), with key support from the National Venture Capital Association (NVCA) and the Kauffman Foundation, will serve as a forum for the nation's energy leaders to share ideas, collaborate, and identify key technology opportunities and challenges.
Summit participants will include members of the scientific and research communities, investors, technology entrepreneurs, corporations with an interest in clean energy technologies, policymakers, and government officials.
"I am especially excited about the first ever ARPA-E Energy Innovation Summit," said Secretary Chu. "This conference will bring together the nation's top energy leaders and members of the scientific community to begin building the next Industrial Revolution in clean energy technologies, which will create new jobs and help reduce our carbon footprint," said Secretary Chu.
The summit will spotlight some of ARPA-E's first round of 37 winning research projects and will for the first time showcase many of the more than 250 highly-rated research projects—out of the nearly 3,700 concept papers submitted—from the organization's first $150 million solicitation. Participants will hear from distinguished speakers such as Secretary Chu, ARPA-E Director Dr. Arun Majumdar, and a number of the nation's leading energy innovators. Panel topics will include identifying game-changing technologies, building regional energy innovation clusters, the role of energy in our national security, and successfully developing and commercializing energy technology breakthroughs. In addition, the conference will be preceded by a one-day program of workshops where researchers, entrepreneurs and investors can meet ARPA-E's Program Directors, discuss the goals and directions for ARPA-E's technology program areas, and learn the outcomes of previous workshops on these topics. The pre-conference day also will offer tutorials on topics such as best practices for commercializing breakthrough energy technologies and taking advantage of the SBIR program. For more information and to register for the summit, visit the ARPA-E Energy Innovation Summit Web site.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Puget Sound Energy Adds Seven New Residential Energy Efficiency Rebates for 2010
(Source: Business Wire)Western Washington homeowners can now get new utility rebates on energy efficient water and space heating equipment and home improvements, increasing the number of ways residents can both save energy and money and benefit the environment. Puget Sound Energy will offer seven new rebates for both electric and natural gas customers who upgrade starting Jan. 1, 2010.
"PSE listened to what our customers wanted and retooled our energy efficient equipment rebates to better reflect the changing marketplace," said Cal Shirley, PSE vice president of Energy Efficiency Services. "Our customers now have more ways they can save energy, money and the environment."
The utility offers a wide array of rebates and incentives for home improvements and equipment that reduce energy use and lower bills, and many of these same measures could also qualify for as much as $1,500 in federal tax credits and $100 from Washington state's appliance rebate program for energy efficient clothes washers.
"Puget Sound Energy's expanding array of energy efficiency rebates will lower families' utility bills, reduce the need for expensive new generation and transmission, and cut pollution," said NW Energy Coalition executive director Sara Patton. "PSE again demonstrates its regional leadership in providing clean energy solutions to its customers."
In addition to saving money through rebates, lower bills and tax credits, customers can lower their carbon footprint by using less energy and support the local jobs that service energy conservation programs like these.
The added rebates in 2010 for PSE customers include:
Electric ENERGY STAR®-qualified geothermal heat pump: $1,500
Conversion from electric forced-air-furnace to high-efficiency heat pump: $1,000
Natural gas ENERGY STAR-qualified boiler: $350
Electric ENERGY STAR-qualified heat pump water heater: $250
Electric waste water heat recovery: $250
Natural gas ENERGY STAR-qualified tankless water heaters: $150-200
High-efficiency electric storage water heater: $50
Also in 2010, PSE will continue to offer residential customers numerous other rebates on energy-efficient appliances, equipment and upgrades, including discounts on compact fluorescent lighting, free duct sealing, up to $3,950 to convert from PSE electric heat to natural gas, up to $1,600 for insulation installation, $800 for ductless heat pumps, up to $500 for qualifying windows, $250 for natural gas furnaces, and rebates for efficient water heaters, boilers and heat pumps, and many others offers. The utility hopes to add to their growing list of options for customers in spring 2010, as well.
In 2008-2009, PSE conservation programs saved customers enough energy to supply 23,000 local homes with electricity and 4,000 with natural gas for a year. The environmental benefit of their energy savings is the same as taking 38,000 cars off the road for a year and the programs also supported 450 new jobs for contractors and utility employees, among others, in Western Washington.
For more information about PSE's rebates, residential energy efficiency programs and ways to take control of home energy use, call a PSE Energy Advisor at 1-800-562-1482, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or visit PSE.com.
About Puget Sound Energy
Washington state's oldestlocal energy utility,Puget Sound Energy serves more than 1 million electric customers and nearly 750,000 natural gas customers in 11 counties. A subsidiary of Puget Energy, PSE meets the energy needs of its growing customer base through incremental, cost-effective energy conservation, procurement of sustainable energy resources, and far-sighted investment in the energy-delivery infrastructure. PSE employees are dedicated to providing great customer service and delivering energy that is safe, reliable, reasonably priced, and environmentally responsible. For more information, visit www.PSE.com.
"PSE listened to what our customers wanted and retooled our energy efficient equipment rebates to better reflect the changing marketplace," said Cal Shirley, PSE vice president of Energy Efficiency Services. "Our customers now have more ways they can save energy, money and the environment."
The utility offers a wide array of rebates and incentives for home improvements and equipment that reduce energy use and lower bills, and many of these same measures could also qualify for as much as $1,500 in federal tax credits and $100 from Washington state's appliance rebate program for energy efficient clothes washers.
"Puget Sound Energy's expanding array of energy efficiency rebates will lower families' utility bills, reduce the need for expensive new generation and transmission, and cut pollution," said NW Energy Coalition executive director Sara Patton. "PSE again demonstrates its regional leadership in providing clean energy solutions to its customers."
In addition to saving money through rebates, lower bills and tax credits, customers can lower their carbon footprint by using less energy and support the local jobs that service energy conservation programs like these.
The added rebates in 2010 for PSE customers include:
Electric ENERGY STAR®-qualified geothermal heat pump: $1,500
Conversion from electric forced-air-furnace to high-efficiency heat pump: $1,000
Natural gas ENERGY STAR-qualified boiler: $350
Electric ENERGY STAR-qualified heat pump water heater: $250
Electric waste water heat recovery: $250
Natural gas ENERGY STAR-qualified tankless water heaters: $150-200
High-efficiency electric storage water heater: $50
Also in 2010, PSE will continue to offer residential customers numerous other rebates on energy-efficient appliances, equipment and upgrades, including discounts on compact fluorescent lighting, free duct sealing, up to $3,950 to convert from PSE electric heat to natural gas, up to $1,600 for insulation installation, $800 for ductless heat pumps, up to $500 for qualifying windows, $250 for natural gas furnaces, and rebates for efficient water heaters, boilers and heat pumps, and many others offers. The utility hopes to add to their growing list of options for customers in spring 2010, as well.
In 2008-2009, PSE conservation programs saved customers enough energy to supply 23,000 local homes with electricity and 4,000 with natural gas for a year. The environmental benefit of their energy savings is the same as taking 38,000 cars off the road for a year and the programs also supported 450 new jobs for contractors and utility employees, among others, in Western Washington.
For more information about PSE's rebates, residential energy efficiency programs and ways to take control of home energy use, call a PSE Energy Advisor at 1-800-562-1482, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or visit PSE.com.
About Puget Sound Energy
Washington state's oldestlocal energy utility,Puget Sound Energy serves more than 1 million electric customers and nearly 750,000 natural gas customers in 11 counties. A subsidiary of Puget Energy, PSE meets the energy needs of its growing customer base through incremental, cost-effective energy conservation, procurement of sustainable energy resources, and far-sighted investment in the energy-delivery infrastructure. PSE employees are dedicated to providing great customer service and delivering energy that is safe, reliable, reasonably priced, and environmentally responsible. For more information, visit www.PSE.com.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Recovery Act Announcement
Recovery Act Announcement: Secretary Chu Announces $47 Million to Improve Efficiency in Information Technology and Communications Sectors
January 6, 2010
Energy Secretary Steven Chu announced today that the Department of Energy is awarding $47 million for 14 projects across the country to support the development of new technologies that can improve energy efficiency in the information technology (IT) and communication technology sectors. The data processing, data storage, and telecommunications industries are a crucial part of the American information economy. The rapid growth of these industries has led to an increase in electricity use, but improvements in the sector's energy efficiency can provide significant energy and cost savings. The energy efficiency projects announced today will reduce energy use and carbon pollution, while helping to develop a strong, competitive domestic industry.
"These Recovery Act projects will improve the efficiency of a strong and growing sector of the American economy. By reducing energy use and energy costs for the IT and telecommunications industries, this funding will help create jobs and ensure the sector remains competitive," said Secretary Chu. "The expected growth of these industries means that new technologies adopted today will yield benefits for many years to come."
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Rebates, tax credits help make solar energy more affordable in Florida
Jan 04 - The Palm Beach Post
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Monday, January 4, 2010
China Unveils World’s Largest Solar Office Building
China is often dubbed as a heavy user of fossil fuels and polluter or a climate killer. Because it meets the 70% of its power needs by exploiting coals. But they are making changes on the environment front too. Slowly and steadily they are choosing wind and solar power as their source of energy. China has earned the distinction of having the world’s largest solar-powered building. It is situated in Dezhou, Shangdong Province in northwest China. The building covers an area of 75,000-square-meter. The office building is modelled after the sun dial structure.
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