EERE Network News
July 21, 2004
News and Events
DOE and USDA Award $25 Million for Biomass Initiative
DOE and the U.S. Department of Agriculture have selected 22 projects for nearly $25.5 million in funding. The projects will advance the Biomass Research and Development Initiative, a joint effort of the two agencies, and relate to a wide variety of biomass technologies.
Federal Teams Honored for Energy Achievements
Six federal teams earned presidential awards on July 15th for their renewable energy and energy efficiency efforts, and two exemplary green building efforts at federal agencies earned presidential environmental awards. In all, fifteen teams and three individuals were honored at the ceremony.
DOE Awards $4.2 Million for Solid-Oxide Fuel Cell Research
DOE is awarding $4.2 million to 11 new projects aimed at addressing technical barriers to viable solid-oxide fuel cell systems. Nine of the 11 projects focus on developing new materials for the corrosive, high-temperature environments within the fuel cells.
California Utilities Seek Renewable Energy to Meet New Standard
Two of California's largest utilities are currently seeking more renewable energy in order to meet the state's new requirements. California requires the state's utilities to draw on renewable energy for 20 percent of their power by 2017, but one utility is already there, and another is aiming for 2010.
Large Wind Power Plants Proposed for Wisconsin and Nevada
Plans are moving ahead for a 60-megawatt wind power plant in southeast Wisconsin, while an 80-megawatt wind plant in northern Nevada is starting the environmental review process. Developers of both plants intend to begin commercial operation in 2005.
Arizona Fleets Report Unexpectedly Low Mileages for Hybrid Vehicles
Extensive fleet testing of all four hybrid electric vehicles currently available in the United States yielded mileages about 20 percent lower than the combined city and highway estimates from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. But some claim the EPA figures are high for all vehicles.
Site News
Savings by Design
California's Savings by Design program encourages the design and construction of high-performance commercial buildings.
Energy Connections
IEA: World Oil Demand Expected to Grow Slower in 2005
Developing countries are expected to be the main contributor to growth in oil demand in 2005, according to a new report issued by the International Energy Agency (IEA). The countries that will help most to meet that growth were formerly part of the Soviet Union.
