EERE Network News
October 12, 2005
News and Events
Virginia Tech Claims Early Lead in the Solar Decathlon
The Virginia Tech Solar Decathlon team won both the Dwelling and Architecture competitions on October 10th, giving the team a narrow early lead in the competition. On October 11th, the University of Colorado team won the Communications contest, placing it in third, behind Cal Poly.
Johnson Controls Teams with Saft on Hybrid Vehicle Batteries
Weeks after opening a new research facility for lithium ion batteries, Johnson Controls has formed a joint venture with a leading battery company to develop, manufacture, and sell advanced batteries for hybrid vehicles. DOE praised the new facility, which will advance critical hybrid battery research.
EPA and DOE Launch Campaign Encouraging Use of Energy Star Lights
If every U.S. household changed just one inefficient light to one that carries an Energy Star label, the country would save $600 million in energy bills. That's the message of the "Change a Light, Change the World" campaign, launched in early October by DOE and the EPA.
DOE and USDA Award $12.6 Million for Biomass Energy Research
Eleven biomass research, development, and demonstration projects have been selected to receive $12.6 million in funds from the Biomass Research and Development Initiative, a joint effort of DOE and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
New Mexico, North Carolina Governments to Employ Alternative Fuels
New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson has signed an executive order requiring the government and schools to use ethanol or biodiesel for 15 percent of their transportation fuel needs. In North Carolina, a new law will create a fund to help buy alternative fuels, vehicles, and infrastructure.
New Building Efficiency Standards Take Effect in California
New energy efficiency standards are now in effect for buildings in California. The new standards place an emphasis on efficient lighting both inside and outside of buildings, and also create a new requirement to check for duct leakage when installing a new home heating or cooling system.
Energy Connections
U.S. Utilities Move Ahead with Plans for Three Nuclear Plants
The South is the current focus of efforts for building new nuclear power plants, as utilities are preparing license applications for new plants in Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi. Plans are also in the works for plants in North and South Carolina and either Maryland or New York.
