EERE Network News
May 28, 2008
News and Events
DOE Offers $130 Million to Advance Fuel Cell Technology
With up to $130 million in funding available over the next 3 years, DOE is seeking proposals for research, development, and demonstrations of fuel cells. And thanks to General Motors Corporation, DOE staff will also have an opportunity to drive a fuel cell vehicle over the next six months.
Mississippi State University Wins the Challenge X Competition
A team from Mississippi State University has reengineered a Chevrolet Equinox SUV with a biodiesel-fueled diesel engine and a rear-axle electric motor. The high fuel economy, improved performance, and reduced emissions of the vehicle landed the team in first place at the Challenge X competition.
Honda to Launch Three New Hybrids and Lease Fuel Cell Vehicles
Honda is planning to launch a new hybrid vehicle in early 2009 that will resemble the FCX Clarity fuel cell vehicle in its styling. The company is also preparing to offer a Fit Hybrid and a small sports car hybrid in the future, but for now it is gearing up to lease the FCX Clarity in Southern California.
DOE and Portugal to Cooperate on Wave Energy
Energy Secretary Samuel Bodman has signed an agreement with Portugal for a collaboration on producing power from wave energy. Portugal established its leadership in wave energy by hosting the world's first commercial wave energy power plant, which is located off its northern shore.
New Farm Bill Speeds Commercialization of Advanced Biofuels
The newly passed Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008 will provide incentives for building advanced biorefineries, growing energy crops, and producing biofuels. It also expands and renames the USDA's Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Program.
Americans Driving Less, Says Federal Highway Administration
High fuel prices caused vehicle travel on U.S. public roads to drop precipitously in March, a trend that the Federal Highway Administration hasn't seen since 1979. Lower travel miles mean less greenhouse gas emissions from transportation, but the trend also threatens the Highway Trust Fund.
Energy Connections
EIA: U.S. Carbon Dioxide Emissions Increased 1.6% in 2007
The energy-related emissions of carbon dioxide in the United States increased by 1.6% in 2007, according to preliminary estimates from DOE's Energy Information Administration (EIA). But given more extreme weather and a 2.2% growth in the economy in 2007, it could have been worse.
