EERE Network News
July 11, 2007
News and Events
Boeing Unveils the First Fuel-Efficient 787 Dreamliner
On July 8th, Boeing rolled out the first 787 Dreamliner from its factory in Everett, Washington. When the new airplane takes flight in late August or early September, it is expected to burn 20% less fuel per passenger seat than other similarly sized passenger planes.
Ford, Google, and Utilities Pursue Plug-In Hybrid Vehicles
Ford is looking toward future clean cars as it gets involved in plug-in hybrids, while utilities are looking both to a new future revenue source and the potential benefits of vehicle-to-grid technologies. And while environment and energy issues underlie these efforts, Google.org is also being philanthropic.
DOE to Work with Mack Trucks on Advanced Commercial Vehicles
DOE is preparing to launch a cost-shared project with Mack Trucks to examine the impact of biofuels on diesel engines and to develop a hybrid system for heavy-duty engines that incorporates waste heat recovery. The project is the start of an effort to increase U.S. cooperation with Sweden.
New Jersey Commits to Greatly Reducing its Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Although New Jersey is already participating in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, which targets emissions from utilities, a new law approved in early July requires steeper reductions in greenhouse gas emissions from all sectors of the state's economy.
Oregon Requires Biofuel Blends in Both Gasoline and Diesel Fuels
Oregon has approved legislation requiring all gasoline sold in the state to contain 10% ethanol and all diesel to contain 2% biodiesel, once the local industries are able to meet the demand. The state has also expanded its tax credits for homes and businesses that install renewable energy systems.
DOE Provides $88 Million for Weatherizing Homes in 20 States
DOE has granted $88 million to 20 states to make energy efficiency improvements in low-income households. Weatherization funding this year is expected to provide assistance for approximately 70,000 homes nationwide.
Energy Connections
Report Examines Technologies for Climate Stabilization
A new report from the U.S. Climate Change Science Program examines possible scenarios for stabilizing the concentration of carbon dioxide in Earth's atmosphere. The effort varies significantly with the target concentration, but in all cases it calls for a major transformation of the global energy system.
