EERE Network News
January 07, 2004
News and Events
Toyota and Lexus Unveil New Hybrid SUVs at Detroit Auto Show
Two new hybrid-electric sport utility vehicles will soon be available in the United States. The cars were revealed to the public in early January at Detroit's North American International Auto Show.
Department of Transportation Proposes Fuel Economy Reforms
The DOT's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration issued in December an advanced notice of a proposed rulemaking to reform the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards. Among the suggested reforms is one to increase the scope of the standards to heavier vehicles.
DOE to Develop Hydrogen-Fueled Three-Wheeled Vehicles for India
With support from the U.S. Agency for International Development, DOE is implementing a project to convert a popular three-wheeled vehicle, produced in India, to run on hydrogen fuel.
USDA Proposes Rule to Encourage Federal Purchasing of Bioproducts
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has proposed rules that will begin to implement the Federal Biobased Procurement Program, which will require federal agencies to buy biobased products when available. Biobased products displace products produced from petroleum.
California Grants License for Largest U.S. Geothermal Plant
The California Energy Commission voted on December 17th to approve a license for the 185-megawatt Salton Sea Unit 6 Geothermal Plant. The project will be the largest geothermal power plant in the United States.
World Trade Center's Freedom Tower to Feature Wind Turbines
The new Freedom Tower on the site of the World Trade Center will not only be the world's tallest building, but it will also incorporate wind turbines that will generate 20 percent of the building's electrical power needs. Groundbreaking is expected in mid-2004.
Site News
Mark the New Year With a Free Calendar from EERE!
DOE's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy is offering a free 2004 calendar that's chock-full of energy- saving suggestions. The calendar features a smart design and loads of full-color photos.
Energy Connections
LNG Ministerial Summit Points to the Future of Natural Gas
Energy Secretary Spencer Abraham hosted the first LNG (liquefied natural gas) Ministerial Summit in December amid a large number of announcements from energy companies about proposed LNG terminals throughout North America. LNG is the only practical way to import natural gas from overseas.
