EERE Network News
August 30, 2006
News and Events
Nevada Utilities Offer $100 Million for Efficiency Programs
Two Nevada utilities will accept bids from contractors to run 11 energy efficiency and load management programs for three years. Bids for the $100 million solicitation are due October 3rd.
Growth in Ethanol Industry Makes National Mandate Moot
The current pace of ethanol production and facility construction has allowed the industry to exceed the current goals of the Renewable Fuels Standard. Ethanol facilities in the Corn Belt and other parts of the country will contribute to this industry growth.
Three States Award Nearly $33 Million for Biomass Projects
Biomass energy in Illinois, Washington, and Wisconsin has received a boost in the form of $33 million in grants and loans announced by their governors. Pennsylvania is also offering a grant to fund projects that increase biodiesel and ethanol use and production.
Two Electric Vehicle Companies, Two Approaches: Small and Fast
ZAP has introduced three-wheeled electric vehicles to the U.S. market, including the optionally striped Xebra and hauler Xebra PK. Also on the way, from Tesla Motors, is the electric Tesla Roadster, which is touted to go from zero to 60 in four seconds and travel 250 miles per charge.
Shuttle Astronauts to Boost Solar Power for the Space Station
The delayed space shuttle Atlantis will carry solar array blankets to the International Space Station that will nearly double the power available for the station.
New Speakers Added for National Renewable Energy Conference
Additional speakers have been added to the program for the national renewable energy conference, to be held in St. Louis, Missouri in October.
Energy Connections
Demand Response Helps Utilities Ride Through Record Heat
Demand response systems helped utilities avoid widespread power outages, in spite of record power demands during the August heat. New technologies allow these systems to be automated.
