EERE Network News
July 18, 2007
News and Events
Florida Executive Orders Aim to Cut Greenhouse Gases
New executive orders set a near-term target of reducing Florida's greenhouse gas emissions to 2000 levels by 2017, with tighter goals for state government. Governor Charlie Grist's orders include emissions limits for the state's motor vehicles and utilities, as well as improved building standards.
Hawaii to Cut Greenhouse Gas Emissions to 1990 Levels by 2020
Hawaii is certainly vulnerable to rising sea levels, and the state intends to do its part to fight climate change by cutting its greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by 2020. A bill signed by Governor Lingle in late June requires the state to have emissions rules in place by the end of 2011.
Fifteen States Lead the Nation in Building Energy Star Homes
In the 15 states with the greatest implementation of Energy Star homes, more than 12% of new homes are meeting the criteria. These Energy Star-qualified homes are typically 20% to 30% more efficient than standard homes.
Illinois Offers $1,000 Rebate for Hybrids and Electric Vehicles
Through agreements with local financial institutions, Illinois is offering $1,000 rebates for residents that buy new hybrid and electric vehicles. But there are just 2,000 rebates available, so if you're thinking of buying a new vehicle, you'd better act fast.
Department of Defense and NASA Look to Fuel Jets with Biofuels
Future jet fuels may be derived from vegetable oils, animal fats, or even algae. While a couple companies are developing jet biofuels for the Defense Department, a company with combustion expertise is working under a NASA contract to model how the fuels will burn.
New York Team Takes Early Lead in Dell-Winston Solar Race
Eleven teams of high school students from are now racing their solar cars north from Round Rock, Texas, to Newburgh, New York. While four teams are from Mississippi, seven of the remaining teams are from around the country, and one team is from Puerto Rico.
Energy Connections
At Half-Year Mark, 2007 is Second Warmest Year on Record
The first half of 2007 was the second warmest on record, just slightly below 1998, according to the latest analysis by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. On land, this is by far the warmest first half of the year, but the air temperatures over the oceans are lower than the record.
