EERE Network News
April 09, 2008
News and Events
DOE Announces New Energy Star Criteria for Water Heaters
Next year, consumers will be able to buy water heaters carrying the Energy Star label. DOE has established new Energy Star criteria for solar water heaters, heat pump water heaters, and three types of gas-fired water heaters.
DOE and EPA Honor Energy Star Partners
DOE and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) honored 76 businesses, groups, and government entities on April 1 for achieving major energy savings or helping customers save money and energy through their work with the Energy Star program.
Large-Scale Solar Thermal Power Projects Planned for California
FPL Energy is the latest company to propose building a large concentrating solar power (CSP) plant in southern California, while other proposals could yield thousands of megawatts of CSP facilities. Pacific Gas and Electric Company has agreed to buy power from several of those proposed facilities.
California Utility Inks Deal for Nearly 1,500 Solar Homes
An agreement between the Sacramento Municipal Utility District and homebuilder Woodside Homes will lead to 1,487 new energy-efficient solar homes near Rancho Cordova, about 10 miles east of Sacramento, California. Another homebuilder is also launching new green homes in San Jose.
Iowa Leads the Nation with 5.5% Wind Power, Says AWEA
Texas still leads the nation in total installed wind power capacity, but on a percentage basis, Iowa generates more of its electricity from wind power than any other state. The growing wind industry has resulted in a wind blade plant in Colorado and plans for a wind turbine plant in Idaho.
Scotland Offers $20 Million Prize for Ocean Energy Innovations
Innovators in marine renewable energy will have a chance to demonstrate their inventions in Scotland and take a stab at winning a $20 million prize. But for more specific details on the newly launched "Saltire Prize," you'll have to wait until November 30.
Energy Connections
EIA: Crude Oil Prices to Average $101 per Barrel in 2008
The combination of rising oil consumption and low surplus oil production capacity will result in an annual average price of $101 per barrel, according to DOE's Energy Information Administration (EIA). High prices are causing U.S. consumption to drop, but global demand is still increasing.
