EERE Network News
March 08, 2006
News and Events
DOE Sets More Stringent Criteria for Energy Star Dishwashers
DOE is setting more stringent energy efficiency criteria for Energy Star-labeled dishwashers. Starting next year, dishwashers must be at least 41 percent more efficient than federal energy efficiency standards to earn the Energy Star label.
Global Wind Power Capacity Increases 25 Percent in 2005
The world now draws on 59 gigawatts of wind power, thanks to the addition of nearly 12 gigawatts in 2005. The United States installed the most wind power capacity last year, although it still trails Germany in total installed capacity.
Arizona Establishes Higher Renewable Energy Requirements
Arizona utilities will have to draw on renewable energy for 15 percent of their electricity supply by 2025, under new requirements approved by the state's regulatory agency. The utilities are required to draw a growing percentage of the renewable power from systems on customers' premises.
New Mexico Approves Solar Energy Tax Credits
Residents of New Mexico will be able to claim tax credits of 30 percent of the purchase and installation costs for solar electric and solar thermal systems—up to $9,000 for each system—under a law that was signed by Governor Bill Richardson on March 3rd.
Ethanol Production Reaches Nearly 4 Billion Gallons in 2005
The U.S. ethanol industry is growing quickly, and as a consequence, it continually sets new production records. In 2005, the industry produced 3.9 billion gallons of fuel, and demand is expected to escalate this year.
DOE Conducts Energy Assessments at Six Industrial Plants
DOE launched Energy Saving Assessments at six industrial plants in early March, including facilities in New Jersey, Tennessee, Texas, and Wisconsin.
Site News
Southeast Energy Efficiency Alliance Launches New Web Site
A broad coalition formed the Southeast Energy Efficiency Alliance in 2003, and now that alliance has launched a new Web site. The site includes information from a recent workshop on energy efficiency tax credits.
Energy Connections
Chevron Investment Highlights Development of Alberta Oil Sands
Chevron Corporation has announced a large investment in Canadian oil sands, an alternative petroleum resource that has proven reserves second only to Saudi Arabia. However, the oil sands cover an area greater than Florida, much of which would have to be strip-mined to remove the oil.
