EERE Network News
February 22, 2006
News and Events
President Bush Promotes the Advanced Energy Initiative
President Bush just completed a three-city tour to promote his Advanced Energy Initiative, including visits to a solar manufacturing plant in Michigan, a hybrid battery developer in Wisconsin, and DOE's National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Colorado.
Denver Plans to Build One- to Two-Megawatt Solar Power Plant
Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper has announced plans to build a solar power plant as large as two megawatts in capacity to provide electricity for the Denver County Jail. The plant will be located on the site of the Stapleton Airport, which was decommissioned when the new airport opened.
California to Set Cap on Utility Greenhouse Gas Emissions
California is the latest state to move ahead with limits on greenhouse gas emissions from power production. The emissions caps planned by the California Public Utilities Commission should encourage utility investment in renewable energy and energy efficiency.
Building Groups to Set Minimum Standard for Green Building
When it comes to building green, many architects and developers hope to medal by earning silver, gold, and platinum ratings. But for developers that lack the opportunity or the "green" to achieve such precious metal status, a new standard will allow builders to simply shoot for green.
USDA Offers Grants and Loans for Efficiency, Renewable Energy
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is currently offering more than $11 million in grants and $176 million in guaranteed loans for agricultural producers and small rural businesses to purchase renewable energy systems and make energy efficiency improvements.
Illinois Rural Electric Cooperative Wins DOE Wind Award
A rural cooperative utility serving west-central Illinois has won the 2005 Wind Cooperative of the Year Award, presented by DOE's Wind Powering America along with a co-op association. The Illinois Rural Electric Cooperative installed a 1.65-megawatt wind turbine in 2005.
Site News
Efficiency Group Lists "Greenest" Vehicles for 2006
Honda and Toyota still dominate the top of the list of greenest vehicles, but clean-burning versions of the Pontiac Vibe, the Chevrolet Cobalt, and the Saturn Ion are also in the top twelve. The American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy updated its list in February.
Energy Connections
Energy Outlook Forecasts Minimal Clean Energy Impact by 2030
DOE's Energy Information Administration has released its full Annual Energy Outlook, which projects U.S. energy trends through 2030. The "reference forecast" predicts a 34 percent growth in U.S. energy use, but even the "high technology" scenario projects a 26 percent increase in U.S. energy use.
