EERE Network News
September 29, 2004
News and Events
Congress Renews Wind Energy Production Tax Credit
Congress approved a bill on September 23rd that will extend the wind energy production tax credit through the end of 2005, allowing $3 billion in wind energy investments to move ahead. President Bush is expected to sign the bill in the near future.
New York State Sets a New Renewable Energy Requirement
By 2013, utilities in New York State will draw on renewable energy for 25 percent of the power they sell, under a new policy set by the Public Service Commission on September 22nd. The new Renewable Portfolio Standard program will result in 3,700 megawatts of new renewables in the state.
National Solar Tour Kicks Off on October 2nd
The ninth annual National Solar Tour takes place across the United States on October 2nd, as a variety of solar homes and buildings open their doors to the public. This year, local tours are being offered in 37 states plus the District of Columbia.
EIA: U.S. Solar Power Manufacturing Declined in 2003
A drop in solar photovoltaic exports caused an overall decline in U.S. photovoltaic shipments in 2003, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). Although the U.S. market for solar power is growing, much of the international activity is currently dominated by Japan and Germany.
California Passes Bills to Promote Clean Cars and Renewables
California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signed several energy-related bills in late September, including a bill allowing high-mileage hybrid vehicles onto HOV lanes and a bill prohibiting local governments from placing tight restrictions on solar energy systems.
California Approves Rules to Cut Auto Greenhouse Emissions
The California Air Resources Board approved new regulations on September 24th that will require automakers to sell vehicles that produce lower emissions of greenhouse gases. By 2016, the regulations will cut greenhouse gas emissions from new cars and light trucks by 30 percent.
Site News
Renewable Energy Long Island
Renewable Energy Long Island is a membership-based, not- for-profit organization promoting clean, sustainable energy use and generation for Long Island.
Energy Connections
Approval of Reactor Design Opens Door for New Nuclear Power
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission's recent approval of a new standard nuclear plant design, Westinghouse's AP1000, places the industry closer to staging a come back in the United States.
