EERE Network News
January 27, 2010
News and Events
DOE to Award $20.5 million to Five Community Renewable Energy Projects
DOE is awarding more than $20.5 million in Recovery Act funds for five renewable energy projects in California, Colorado, Vermont, and Wisconsin. The projects involve biomass, solar, and wind energy installations, ranging from Vermont wood-chip heat to California's first "solar highway."
DOE to Invest $12 Million to Support Early-Stage Solar Technologies
DOE is investing $12 million, with $10 million coming from Recovery Act funds, to help early-stage solar energy technologies scale into commercial viability. The technologies include both traditional solar cells and modules and devices for concentrating photovoltaic systems.
DOE Closes $465 Million Loan to Tesla Motors
DOE has closed on its $465 million loan to Tesla Motors, Inc., which the automaker will use to build two factories. One will be in southern California, producing the Model S electric sedan. The other is in Palo Alto, California, where workers will assemble electric powertrains and vehicle components.
NREL Study Shows 20% Wind is Possible by 2024
As much as 20% of the power connected to the grid in 2024 could be supplied by wind, according to a new study by DOE's National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). The analysis of the Eastern Interconnection concludes that 20% wind power is feasible, but it would require transmission upgrades.
The New American Home to Incorporate Energy-Saving Technologies
The design for the 2010 edition of The New American Home was unveiled at the annual International Builders' Show in Las Vegas, Nevada. The home includes numerous energy efficiency and solar energy features, aiming to consume 72% less energy than a similar house built to code.
California Adopts Nation's First Statewide Green Building Standard
California has adopted the first-in-the-nation Green Building Standards Code, which will take effect on January 1, 2011. The code includes mandatory inspections of energy systems for nonresidential buildings, as well as a variety of water conservation measures.
Energy Connections
API: U.S. Crude Oil Imports Decreased by 9.2% in 2009
The American Petroleum Institute (API) has announced that the imports of crude oil and related products dropped by 9.2% in 2009. With U.S. crude oil production up 7% over 2008 levels, the United States also moved slightly closer to energy independence.
