EERE Network News
February 10, 2010
News and Events
President Obama Announces Three Steps to Boost Biofuels
President Obama has announced three actions to boost U.S. biofuel production, including the final rule implementing the expanded Renewable Fuel Standard, which calls for 36 billion gallons of biofuel by 2022, and a report that establishes a roadmap for achieving that standard.
Biomass Crop Assistance Program to Spur Production of Renewable Energy
The U.S. Department of Agriculture is proposing new regulations for the Biomass Crop Assistance Program, which is designed to spur production of non-food biomass crops for renewable energy.
U.S. Wind Energy Industry Installed Nearly 10,000 MW in 2009
Thanks to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the U.S. wind industry had a record year in 2009, installing 9,921 megawatts (MW) of new wind turbines. But U.S. wind power growth is being rivaled by even faster growth in China.
U.S. Geothermal Energy Capacity Grew 6% in 2009
Geothermal energy capacity grew 6% in the United States during 2009, with the addition of six new geothermal plants in four states, according to an industry group. And boosted by Recovery Act funds, the renewable energy source is expected to continue growing in 2010.
GM Invests $246 Million in Electric Motors and Components in Baltimore
General Motors Corporation (GM) is investing $246 million to build electric motors and hybrid components at its Baltimore Transmission plant in Maryland, making it the first high-volume electric motor manufacturing site in the United States to be run by a major automaker.
Florida Company Donates Solar Lights to Haiti
A Florida manufacturer of solar outdoor lighting is donating more than $300,000 in equipment and aid as part of the relief effort for Haiti. The company has already provided emergency lighting for hospitals, relief camps, and food centers in the earthquake-devastated country.
Energy Connections
SEC: Businesses Should Disclose Climate Change Impacts
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has issued new "interpretive guidance" to companies to indicate how they should handle the impacts of climate change in their financial disclosures. The move may cause businesses to focus more on the issue of climate change.
