EERE Network News
September 06, 2006
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News and Events
New York Law Prohibits Shutout of Alternative Fuels
A new law in New York will make biofuels more accessible to consumers by prohibiting contracts that prevent stations from buying from distributors other than the main one. Since most major distributors in New York do not sell alternative fuels, consumers previously did not have access to them.
First Residence Awarded Platinum LEED Rating
As green-building practices and materials become more common, residential builders are using them in construction. One builder has received the first Platinum rating for a residential building under the LEED rating system, which provides guidelines for meeting efficiency and sustainability goals.
USDA Awards $17.5 Million for Rural Development
The USDA has awarded $17.5 million in grants to 375 recipients in 36 states. The grants will support renewable energy projects in rural areas, and can be used for up to 25 percent of project costs.
Biofuel Companies Use Alternative Energy for Production and Delivery
Panda Ethanol will build a second 100-million gallon ethanol plant that will use 1 billion pounds of cattle manure to generate the steam needed for production.
Pennsylvania and Ski Resorts Commit to Renewable Energy
Pennsylvania will double its purchase of renewable fuels each year, and will get 20 percent of the state's electricity requirements from wind and hydroelectric sources. Four ski resorts have also committed to using renewable sources to power their operations.
DOE Conducts Energy Assessments in Texas and Indiana
DOE is conducting three-day Industrial Energy Saving Assessments at steel plants in Texas and Indiana. The assessments will focus on steam and process heating systems to help the plants identify energy-saving opportunities.
Energy Connections
Utility Survey Says Shopkeepers Are Energy Hogs
The Long Island Power Authority has identified retail stores as energy hogs. Many stores in the area leave their doors open to draw in customers, but the practice wastes energy on hot days when air conditioners are running.