EERE Network News
July 09, 2008
News and Events
DOE and Sweden to Advance Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles
DOE and the Swedish Energy Agency signed a Memorandum of Understanding on July 7, under which they will work to accelerate the commercialization of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles and to prepare consumers for the coming technology.
California Gains its First Combined Hydrogen and Gasoline Station
Shell Hydrogen and General Motors Corporation opened the first combined hydrogen and gasoline fueling station in California, and the second in the nation, in late June. The new station will generate hydrogen via electrolysis, using green power.
BLM to Continue Accepting Applications for Solar Energy Projects
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has decided to continue accepting applications for future solar energy projects on public lands as it prepares a Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement to address the impacts of solar energy development in six Western states.
Hawaii Energy Bills Include a Solar Hot Water Requirement
Hawaii Governor Linda Lingle approved a bill in late June that requires most new single-family homes to include solar water heaters. Since April, the governor has signed 11 bills to support renewable energy developments, biofuels production, and a hydrogen energy project in Hawaii.
Massachusetts Doubles Renewable Energy Requirements for Utilities
Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick has approved a comprehensive energy bill that doubles the rate of increase in the state's Renewable Portfolio Standard from 0.5% per year to 1% per year. The bill also addresses net metering, energy efficiency, building energy codes, and clean vehicles.
New York Aims for 7.5% Cut in Electricity Use by 2015
The New York State Public Service Commission (PSC) approved an energy efficiency initiative in mid-June that aims to cut electricity sales in the state by 7.5% by 2015, relative to projected sales in 2008 without the program. The PSC also initiated an energy efficiency program for natural gas.
Site News
DOE Web Site Helps You Find Alternative Fuel Stations
For those alternative fuel vehicle owners out there that are looking for a fuel pump, a new DOE Web tool can serve as matchmaker. The Alternative Fuel Station Locator can arrange a perfect marriage, finding public stations in your area or along a route and displaying the results in Google Maps.
Energy Connections
No Gasoline or Oil Price Relief Until Winter 2009, Says EIA
With oil staying well above $100 per barrel through 2009, DOE's Energy Information Administration (EIA) expects the average price of regular gasoline to stay above $4 per gallon until late in 2009. While fuel pumps are hurting pocketbooks today, utility bills could be causing similar pains this winter.
