EERE Network News
August 22, 2007
News and Events
BLM Geothermal Leasing Yields $20 Million in Winning Bids
Geothermal power developers signaled their plans to significantly expand geothermal power production in California and Nevada when they bid aggressively in mid-August for 49 parcels offered for lease by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).
Largest U.S. Biodiesel Facility Opens in Washington State
Imperium Renewables has opened a biodiesel production plant in Washington's Grays Harbor that has the capacity to produce 100 million gallons of biodiesel per year. New large biodiesel facilities have also opened in Indiana and Michigan.
Army Unveils Hybrid Propulsion System for New Combat Vehicles
The U.S. Army is getting serious about fuel efficiency, as it is preparing to roll out eight new ground vehicles that will all incorporate beefy hybrid propulsion systems. The Army plans to begin production of the first vehicle, a self-propelled howitzer, in late 2008.
Sustainable Neighborhood Rating System Draws Strong Interest
The U.S. Green Building Council is launching a new rating system for neighborhoods, and the response has been gratifying. Nearly 240 new developments have signed up to participate in the pilot testing of the new rating system, including projects in 39 states.
Solar Housing Developments Gain Momentum in Northern California
New housing developments that feature solar power systems are sprouting up in the cities surrounding the Bay Area and Sacramento, including new projects in Brentwood, Gilroy, Rocklin, and Vacaville. Many of the projects are being spurred on by California's New Solar Homes Partnership.
DOE Launches Round 3 of its Industrial Energy Assessments
DOE plans to conduct 250 industrial energy assessments in 2008 and is now accepting applications. To date, DOE has completed 253 energy assessments at industrial plants throughout the country. DOE is also looking for suggestions on how to advance industrial energy efficiency.
Energy Connections
Utilities Begin Earnest Pursuit of Nuclear Power Construction
The Tennessee Valley Authority is the first utility in the country to announce that it wants to build a new nuclear plant, as it aims to complete the Watts Bar Unit 2 plant in Tennessee. But utilities and energy companies are also moving ahead with plants in Florida, Mississippi, and Texas.
