Green Power

Colorado Town Invests in Green Tags, Renewable Energy

As of January 1, 100 percent of the Town of Mountain Village in Colorado started receiving power through renewable energy green tags.  In December, the town agreed to purchase $59,000 worth of green tag renewable energy from the San Miguel Power Association. The town pays SMPA a premium that SMPA then pays to their electricity provider, Tri-State Generation and Transmission, to develop new sources of renewable energy such as wind, hydro, and solar power.  Source: EIN Renewable Energy Today, 1/10/2007

For more information: http://www.eere.energy.gov/greenpower/index.shtml

Renewable Energy Technologies

California Utility Signs Historic Wind Energy Contract

Utility Southern California Edison has finalized a wind energy contract that will provide its customers with a source of emission-free power.  The agreement with Alta Windpower Development secures for SCE customers 1,500 megawatts or more of power generated by new projects to be built in the Tehachapi area of California. The contract involves more than 50 square miles of wind parks.  The project is the largest wind energy contract ever signed by a US utility.  Source: EIN Renewable Energy Today, 12/28/2006.

Solar Station Will Power Center

New Mexico State University plans to build a combination solar power generation station and parking structure early next year, using the energy to help power the school's Student Health Center.  The NMSU Institute for Energy and the Environment and College of Engineering are finalizing the design. Built on the main campus in Las Cruces, the target date for completing the structure is early 2007.  An artist's rendering shows a long, carport-like structure, with solar panels on top and room for about a dozen vehicles in its shade.

The university said the structure will be the first non-research, energy production photovoltaic array on campus and the second-largest such system in New Mexico. The largest solar-powered system is the Power Company of New Mexico Solar Facility in Algodones, north of Albuquerque.  "This type of photovoltaic system operates by converting available solar energy into the type of electric energy we use every day in our homes and businesses," said Corey Asbill, an engineer at the Southwest Technology Department Institute, which is co-principal investigator of the project.

The university noted that the sun shines an average of 350 days a year in Las Cruces. A solar-powered system can produce enough electricity during five to seven hours of sunlight to last 24 hours. Excess electric energy can be stored in batteries or sent to the utility grid during the day to offset later consumption at night.  The parking structure will be built next to the Student Health Center. Solar energy will be used to light the parking structure and provide about 10 percent of the electrical needs of the center.  The solar power generation station will consist of 18 kilowatts of photovoltaic panels mounted on top of the structure. It can generate 600 kilowatts of electricity - enough energy to power almost five typical American households for one year.

Besides saving the university money, the system also will eliminate the production of more than 16 tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually, Asbill said. The reduction will result from the fact that vehicles parked in the shaded structure will remain cooler and require less power from the vehicle to run air conditioners shortly after startup.  Source: ASSOCIATED PRESS, 12/27/2006.

The Promise of Geothermal

Geothermal energy may be about to enter the nation's alternative energy mix in a significant way. In a remote desert Idaho location, a new $35-million geothermal energy plant is being constructed at a site where, 30 years ago, proponents believed geothermal promised a true energy breakthrough. This time, however, a new vision--as well as a substantial federal tax credit, growing concern about global warming and high natural gas prices--may make the critical difference in giving the technology real legs. Read more about the promise of geothermal in the current issue of EnergyBiz magazine.  Source: Energy Central, 12/28/2006.

Colorado Bullish on Cellulosic Ethanol

At the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Golden, engineer Bob Wallace has been researching cellulosic ethanol since 2001. Made of cornstalks or virtually any biomass, it is touted as the only alternative fuel able to make a dent in the nation's oil consumption. The goal, Wallace says, is to reduce production costs and make it competitive with corn-derived ethanol by 2012.  The U.S. could turn off the foreign oil spigots by making fuel out of cornstalks, stover, switch grass, straw or virtually any biomass.  Forget drilling thousands of oil and gas wells. Companies instead could gather the nation's abundant forest and agricultural wastes, process those to extract sugar and ferment the sugar to produce fuel.

It's called cellulosic ethanol, and some say it is the environmentally friendly way to feed the country's energy needs. The biggest hurdle is that it's substantially more expensive to make than traditional oil or even ethanol from corn.  Yuma County plans to have the state's, and possibly the nation's, first cellulosic ethanol plant. A Fort Lupton company is considering building a $50 million plant. Construction would begin by 2010, and the plant would pump out fuel the following year.  "Cellulosic technology allows the use of many, many different kinds of biomass, and we see it as where ethanol is headed," said Andrea Anderson, Yuma County's executive director.  Yuma is not the only one bullish about cellulosic ethanol.  Scientists, academics and Wall Street investors are pouring millions of dollars into researching the fuel, convinced that cellulosic ethanol could replace the United States' importation of petroleum from foreign nations.

The United States has an estimated 1 billion tons of biomass available each year, enough for 100 billion gallons of cellulosic ethanol. That potentially could replace nearly half the 140 billion gallons of gasoline the nation currently uses each year.  In contrast, traditional corn ethanol could at best replace only 20 billion gallons, about 14 percent of gasoline use a year, the U.S. Department of Energy estimates.  Currently, the nation's 105 corn- to-ethanol plants produce about 5 billion gallons a year.  President Bush has called for making cellulosic ethanol cost-competitive with corn-derived ethanol by 2012. Congress has mandated the production of 250 million gallons of cellulosic ethanol by 2013, which would require six to 10 commercial plants.  The United States does not have a commercial plant.  But the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Golden is working hard and spending millions of dollars to make that happen. 

A lot of skepticism surrounds the economic viability of a commercial-scale plant.  Scientists have researched cellulosic ethanol for more than 50 years, and there have been many false starts.  It doesn't help that many investors are waiting to see how the first commercial plant works before putting in their money, and the first plant has yet to come online.  "Nobody wants to build the first plant. They want to wait until there are three or four plants to make sure the process really works," said David Wilson, a molecular biology professor at Cornell University. "It is difficult to get a plant financed."  

Unlike traditional ethanol made from corn, cellulosic ethanol requires a more complicated process.  Cornstalks, stover, wheat straw or other biomass feedstock is first pulverized and treated with enzymes, which breaks down the cellulose into sugars. The sugars are fermented and purified into ethanol.  A side benefit of the process is that the biomass used to create cellulosic ethanol contains lignin, a compound that can be separated out and burned to create energy.  Fort Lupton-based PureVision Technology is looking to build the state's first cellulosic ethanol plant in Yuma.  The company has received about $3 million from the U.S. Department of Energy over the past three years and plans to build a $5 million prototype next year.  The proposed plant in Yuma would be its first commercial project. The plant would complement Yuma's corn-to-ethanol plants, one under construction and the other on the drawing board.  Farmers and ranchers, along with Yuma County commissioners, have met with PureVision to discuss the plant.  An ongoing $50,000 study by PureVision will be completed in April, and that will be followed by a comprehensive analysis to determine details such as location of the plant, its capacity and the availability of feedstock from local farmers.  "It seems the community in Yuma is forward-thinking, and they believe a cellulosic ethanol plant would complement their corn-to- ethanol plant," said Ed Lehrburger, co-founder of PureVision. "But we'd have to raise more money before that." Source:  By Gargi Chakrabarty, Rocky Mountain News, 12/26/2006.

Coping with Renewable Generation Variability Part 1: Supply Management

One of the biggest issues with solar and wind power is their variability. They produce power "when they want to", and not necessarily when we would like them to. There are ways to cope with this variability, but each has some economic cost. In this three-part article, we review current options, and suggest likely developments for the near future. Read the article.  Source: Roger Arnold , Owner, Silverthorn Engineering, 12/21/2006 via Energy Pulse.

FPL Invests in Solar Power

By next spring, a structure in Rothenbach Park is expected to produce enough energy to power 44 homes.  Considering the several million customers that Florida Power & Light serves, that's not a lot of juice.  But the solar project FPL is building east of Sarasota -- on Bee Ridge Road, east of Interstate 75 -- is still expected to be the largest solar array in Florida, covering half the size of a football field with panels about 5 feet by 3 feet each.  It is being built to hold up FPL's end of the bargain with customers who have signed up for its Sunshine Energy program.  About 28,000 folks so far have agreed to fork over another $9.75 per month on their power bills to pay for power generated by renewable fuels such as wind and sunlight.  FPL has said it would buy renewable energy from another company, plus bring 150 kilowatts of solar power online for every 10,000 customers who join the program. This 250-kilowatt power producer gets the company more than two-thirds of the way to meeting its self-imposed requirement.  The array will cost between $1 million and $2 million -- a fraction of the cost of building a natural gas or coal plant. But it will also produce just a small sliver of the energy that one of these bigger, more complicated and expensive plants spits out.  Solar projects are generally less cost-effective than bigger plants using other fuels, costing more per watt of electricity. But solar proponents say there may be benefits to solar power than can't be measured in dollars and cents.  "How do you count the avoided cost of air pollution and water pollution?" asked Philip Fairey, deputy director of the Florida Solar Energy Center, part of the University of Central Florida in Orlando. 

Building more of these solar projects and spreading them out in different parts of the state could make the grid more efficient, Fairey said.  By using large power plants like the one in Parrish to produce energy, power companies have to send their products long distances using a series of transmission and distribution lines.  But by dotting the landscape with more -- albeit smaller -- power-producing engines, energy would likely be used by the homes and businesses close to those sources.  "The farther power has to travel down the grid, the more energy you lose," Fairey said. 

That is not a problem the Oakland Ice Center in California, where panels like the ones chosen for the Sarasota solar project have already been installed.  There, power from the 1,960 panels on the rink's roof is used by the ice center itself instead of going back into the grid. The solar array, which covers about 25,000 square feet, would otherwise produce enough electricity for 370 homes. "Even that only brings us to 30 percent of the power we're using," said Dave Fies, general manager of the Oakland Ice Center.  The panels are expected to more than pay for themselves, though, with an annual energy savings projected to be $137,000. The annual loan payment on the array is $126,000, leaving another $11,000 on the table. 

There have been a few glitches with the venture, which was paid for by the city of Oakland as part of a larger project incorporating solar panels on six buildings.  For example, Oakland saw 7 percent less sunlight than expected last year, which meant the center saved less than it had anticipated.  Unlike projects like Oakland's that require a rooftop, the 1,200 photovoltaic panels in Sarasota will be mounted on the ground, utilizing the covered landfill. They will lie flat, mounted about 4 to 6 inches above the ground.  The placement and angle of the panels is important in Florida, where these large panels have to be protected from strong winds and hurricanes.  The Sarasota County project will use panels that were originally designed for roof arrays because they are "even more wind resistant," said FPL spokeswoman Pat Davis.  The inverter is located between the park and Bee Ridge Road.  An underground cable carries the power to a pole on Bee Ridge Extension, where the energy flows into the larger power grid.  Source: By LAUREN MAYK, BUSINESS WEEKLY, 12/25/2006.

Can Geothermal Energy Light Up Yemen?

Geothermal energy is derived from the natural heat of the earth. It's a renewable energy form derived from heat deep in the earth's crust.  Many national and international environmental officials recently have talked about generating geothermal energy to power Yemen's cities. The term ?geothermal energy' itself is new for most of Yemenis, who are ignorant about how such energy can be generated or used. However, Yemeni citizens mainly doubt whether such power can solve the problem of constant electricity breakdowns in cities. Can geothermal energy light Yemen's rural regions that are mostly plunged into darkness?

Both national and international groups conducted preliminary geothermal investigations in Yemen during the 1980s, producing geological descriptions, as well as geochemical and hydrological data. However, Yemen's past division into north and south didn't allow for coherent or unified conclusions and recommendations.  Abdulsalam Al-Dukhain, director of the geothermal project in Yemen, says, "Since we began researching this subject, we were sure Yemen has a huge stock of geothermal energy in the earth, particularly in western Yemen where there are many volcanoes, including Taiz, Ibb, Dhamar and Sana'a  "When we searched more intensely, cooperating with some countries that have experience in this field through certain organizations like Florence University in Italy, we attained positive results, which convinced everyone that such energy must be used, particularly to cover the existing gap in electrical power in Yemen," he noted.  In 2003, the German Federal Institute for Geosciences and Natural Resource initiated the technical cooperation program, GEOTHERM, whose objective is to promote the use of geothermal energy in partner countries by kicking off development at promising sites.

This past March, a joint project appraisal mission established by the Ministry of Water and Environment, Yemen's Geological Survey and Minerals Resources Board and the German geosciences institute initiated a joint project called ARGEO to head geothermal energy use in Yemen. Consequently, a project-planning workshop for this joint project was held last month in Sana'a with participants from all three partners.  At the workshop, participants talked about the possible obstacles to geothermal energy use in Yemen, classifying such obstacles as technical, financial, institutional, social and cultural.  Jamal explained, "They also talked about possible measures to overcome such obstacles; for example, pointing to the importance of cooperating with donors and establishing national and local fundraising campaigns and other measures to overcome financial obstacles," she added.  "Participants also discussed cooperating with international scientific institutes and programs to provide Yemeni staff with required training courses, as well as focusing on the role of awareness among politicians and local citizens to inform them about the importance of such energy," Jamal concluded. 

The workshop was followed by a signed agreement between Yemen and the German geosciences institute to launch a project exploring the use of geothermal energy. Under the agreement, the German side will fund the approximately YR 77 million geothermal project in Yemen.  The German contribution, along with contributions from the Yemeni government and other donors totaling some $2 million, will be allocated for exploratory digging to 2,000 meters in Dhamar.

Dr. Mohammed Ali Mattash, scientist and observer of the project, referred to the advantages of geothermal energy use, saying that such energy is environmentally friendly unlike other sources because it doesn't produce any negative environmental affects. Additionally, the cost of using such energy is low and it's more sustainable compared to other energy sources.  Mattash stressed the importance of supporting the project, noting that Yemen can start to apply the project if there's support from the decision makers.  According to statistics, Yemen has the lowest population access to electricity in the region, with only 40 percent of the total population having access, compared to the regional average of approximately 85 percent.  Among the nation's rural population, which is 72 percent of the total population, only 23 percent have access to electricity, which compares unfavorably to 85 percent of the urban population (28 percent of the total) who have access to electricity.  Of the rural population with access to electricity, only half are connected to the national grid system while the rest are estimated to have some access via other sources, typically a diesel generator operating only a few hours in the evening.

He pointed out that some countries with the same geological circumstances as Yemen can generate electrical power; for instance, Kenya, whose production reached 400 megawatts. Mattash said regions selected to conduct the project are Al-Lissi Isbil in Dhamar governorate, Mashkafer in Ibb and Damt in Al-Dhale' governorate. Geothermal energy has various uses, such as in small industries, domestic heating, natural therapy, irrigation and agriculture.  Mattash confessed, "I can't evaluate the quantity of electrical power that can be generated from geothermal energy unless involved sectors complete all of the studies, exploratory digging and results analysis, which will take time and effort, besides financial and technical support. However, if there are good circumstances to generate a thermal field, the expected power will be from 5 megawatts to 200 megawatts."  Source: Amel Al-Ariqi, Yemen Times, 12/27/2006.

Nevada On-track to Quadruple Its Geothermal Power, Over 1000 MW to Be On-Line, New Report Concludes

A new report from the Geothermal Energy Association concludes that Nevada is now on-track to be producing over 1000 MW of geothermal power -- quadrupling its current geothermal output -- over the next 3 to 5 years. This level of geothermal production would meet roughly 25 percent of the state's total power needs.  A combination of federal and state policies have propelled substantial new geothermal power development in Nevada," according to Dan Fleischmann,author of this new report, entitled "Geothermal Resource Development in Nevada -- 2006." 

His analysis concludes that this dramatic success is due to four major factors:  (1) the state's Renewable Portfolio Standard; (2) the extension of the federal production tax credit to include geothermal energy; (3) the Bureau of Land Management's efforts to reduce its leasing backlog; and (4) the Department of Energy's support for cost- shared drilling, technical assistance, and the work of the Great Basin Center for Geothermal Energy at the University of Nevada Reno. The report identifies up to 29 new geothermal power projects now under development in Nevada. The report finds that new power plants would produce as much as 853 MW. When completed, these new plants will quadruple the existing 276.4 MW capacity from Nevada's currently operating 15 power plants. With over 1100 MW, Nevada would be generating more power than most of the 25 countries producing geothermal energy today. Only the US and the Philippines produce more.

In addition to geothermal power, the report also identifies new geothermal space and district heating projects in Elko, Fernley, and Reno and two new alternative fuels projects using geothermal energy. A bio-diesel plant is slated to commence operation in the first quarter of 2007 in Wabuska using geothermal resources for both power and heat. Also, drilling for the so-called "Gerlach Green Energy Project" recently began at Gerlach. Developers say this Geothermal-ethanol project may create up to 250 Nevadan jobs. 

The GEA report is based upon interviews with over 60 leading experts in the geothermal field in the United States, more than 40 of whom have worked specifically with geothermal energy in Nevada. State and federal officials, researchers, utilities, industry representatives, land developers, and clean energy advocates were among the wide range of individuals interviewed.  This report complements those issued earlier this year examining geothermal resources in Utah, New Mexico, Arizona, and Idaho. Source: Geothermal Energy Association, Washington, DC, 12/22/2006.

Study Shows Biodiesel Will Add $24 Billion to U.S. Economy

America's biodiesel industry will add $24 billion to the U.S. economy between 2005 and 2015, according to a study by the National Biodiesel Board. The figure foresees biodiesel growth reaching 650 million gallons of annual production by 2015. Source: GreenBiz.com, 1/3/2007.

Latest News Headlines from North American Windpower

The North American Windpower News, a product of Zackin Publications, has released their January 3, 2006 issue. Source:  Zackin Publications Inc., 1/3/2007.

U.S. Renewable Energy Goal Do-able, UT Researchers Say

As many as 100 million acres of cropland and pastures would have to be dedicated to cultivating biomass fuels such as switchgrass to support a national goal of 25 percent renewable energy use by 2025, according to a University of Tennessee study. Moreover, new commercial technologies will be needed to turn switchgrass, wheat, >rice and forest products into ethanol fuel, now principally made from corn, and their byproducts into feedstock for power generation. But the rewards could be great. Source: Biomass R&D Initiative Newsletter December 2006.

For more information on Renewable Resources go to: http://www.repartners.org

Outreach, Education, Reports & Studies

Boise Hosts Harvesting Clean Energy Conference

The 7th Annual Northwest "Harvesting Clean Energy" Conference  is scheduled to be held in Boise, Idaho, on January 28-30, 2007. The theme of this conference is "Charting the way to rural economic development through clean energy production." The conference will feature sessions on ethanol, wind farming, geothermal, carbon sequestration, and many others. Three local field trips (geothermal, wind, and biofuels) are also offered at the conference. The sponsors are expecting at least 500 participants at the conference.

Solar Panels Energize Learning

Penny Smeltzer views the new solar panels at Westwood High School as a chance for her statistics students to engage in some high-level mathematical forecasting.  Chris Delbar thinks that the sun-generated electricity could launch her Westwood chemistry students into a field of study that could make the planet a lot healthier.  "There's an old saying that we must take care of the environment because we borrow it from our children," Delbar said. "These panels will motivate us to learn more about renewable energy." 

The solar devices atop two 10-foot poles were dedicated with a ribbon-cutting at Westwood and at Pond Springs Elementary in the Round Rock school district Dec. 7. After a training period, students at both campuses will monitor energy production from them through a Web site.  "We'll gather data from the panels and do regression analyses to study cost savings and the benefits of solar power," Smeltzer said.

The solar panels at each campus, valued at $33,700 apiece, were free to the school district, paid for by grants from Austin Energy and the U.S. Department of Energy through the Texas State Energy Conservation Office.  The energy they provide will be free, too.  Each unit generates enough power to serve five large classrooms at each school, said officials of Austin Energy, the City of Austin's utility department.  The 3.4-kilowatt solar systems at the two schools each will produce about 5,450 kilowatt hours of electricity annually. Each system will save its campus $545 in electricity costs annually, according to utility company officials.  Students can track the power savings at each campus while also learning about energy and light, said Leslie Libby, renewable energy manager for Austin Energy. "Every technology for producing power has its pros and cons," Libby said. "Using coal to fuel power generators is cheaper, but there are environmental consequences when coal is burned. What is intriguing about energy from the sun is that it is environmentally beneficial. The problem is that solar technology is still expensive." 

She said Westwood and Pond Springs have joined 42 other schools in the state by having the solar panels on their campuses, including 12 in Austin.  "One of the big reasons we are installing solar panels in schools is that we believe a lot of students will find jobs in the solar arena when they become adults," Libby said.

Emma McClain, a junior in Westwood's rigorous International Baccalaureate Program, said one of her generation's big worries is global warming, and solar energy seems to be one of the keys to preserving the planet's delicate ecosystem.  "I've read where they are improving the efficiency of solar power," McClain said. "And that's important because we definitely need to get off the types of fuels that pollute. Global warming keeps getting worse." Source: By Bob Banta, AMERICAN-STATESMAN STAFF, 12/26/2006.

MapMuse Lists Solar Energy Contractors

MapMuse.com has recently introduced interactive mapping of solar energy contractors across the US.  Over 700 solar energy contractors currently appear on the MapMuse maps. Solar energy contractors add information about their services to the maps, such as contractor names, photos, contact information, and website links.  Source: EIN Renewable Energy Today, 12/22/2006.

IREC Small Wind Newsletter - Number 25, January 2007

The Interstate Renewable Energy Council has published their January 2007 issue of Small Wind Newsletter. Source: IREC, 12/28/2006.

Submit Your Nominations for Wind Co-op of the Year

The Western Area Power Administration Renewable Resource Program in partnership with DOE's Wind Powering America Program are initiating the annual Wind Co-op of the Year Award, which honors one electric co-op each year for its leadership in wind power.  This year, 2006, marks the 6th anniversary of the award.  Since the program's inception, winners have included Great River Energy, Basin Electric Power Cooperative, Holy Cross Electric Association, Western Farmers Electric Cooperative and last year's winner, Illinois Rural Electric Cooperative. 

All electric co-ops that are members of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association are eligible to apply, and electric cooperatives can nominate themselves. The 2006 winner will be recognized at the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association TechAdvantage Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada on Friday, March 16. Additionally, the winner will be recognized in a future issue of Rural Electric Magazine.  There is no cost to enter. Deadline for nominations is Jan. 29. For additional information, call Randy Manion, Western Area Power Administration, at 720-962-7423.  Source: Randy Manion, Western Area Power Administration, 12/14/2006.

Register Now For January Wind Interconnection Workshop

Western Area Power Administration Renewable Resource Program is coordinating a Wind Interconnection workshop for power distribution systems in partnership with the U.S. DOE Wind Powering America Program, National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, American Public Power Association, among others.  At this event consumer-owned utility representatives will learn about interconnecting wind turbines and other distributed generation applications to their own power distribution systems.  The two-day Wind Interconnection Workshop will be held Jan. 24 and 25, at Western's world-renowned Electric Power Training Center in Golden, Colo. Registration fee is $200.  Participation is limited to the first 30 registrants, with electric cooperative and public power personnel receiving preference, so reserve your place today. To register, contact Debbie Rock Western Area Power Administration, 720-962-7271.  Source: Public Renewables Partnership, Westgern Area Power Administration, 12/14/2006.

1000 to Attend 10th Annual EUEC Conference in Tucson, Arizona

The 10th annual Electric Utilities Environmental Conference will be held at the world-famous Westin La Paloma Resort and Spa, in Tucson, Ariz., Jan. 21-24, where the average high temperature for January is a balmy 70 F. Eight area hotels within 10 minutes from the Westin have rooms blocked at reduced rates for the EUEC conference. Please see for details.  EUEC 2007 has gained national recognition as a "must attend" technical and networking event. Over 800 professionals have registered to attend to-date. Utility executives and world-leading experts will present 300 technical presentations in five tracks on Clean Air, Mercury, Global Warming and Renewable Energy. The conference--jointly organized by the U.S. Department of Energy, the Electric Power Research Institute and the Edison Electric Institute -- has steadily grown in size and scope since it was first held in Arizona in 1995.

EUEC is a highly professional event where participants may attend any of 300 technical presentations made in three days Monday - Wednesday from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. in five concurrent tracks. Buffet style luncheons (noon-1 p.m.) and receptions (6-7 p.m.) held in the exhibit area provide networking opportunities with 1000 conference participants.  Fifteen pre-conference workshops and seminars held on Sunday, Jan. 21, before the conference, provide opportunities to learn about state-of-art and cutting-edge technologies. The Exposition showcasing 150 exhibit booths has been expanded since last year with about 30 new booths now featured.  Source: By Prabhu Dayal, Chair EUEC, 12/14/2006.

Green Energy TV Features Renewable Energy Projects

Green Energy TV  launched last week and provides video clips of green energy projects globally including solar energy, wind power and biofuel projects.  Through the company's website, anyone can submit videos of green energy projects underway or completed. After a review process, Green Energy TV reviews the makes videos accessible on the Internet.  "This type of coverage allows consumers to become educated about the energy choices available and empower them to make the educated switch to clean energy," Green Energy TV Founder Craig Zamary said. Source: EIN Renewable Energy Today, 01/02/2007.

Guidance for Carbon Offsets Purchasers

An independent survey, engineered by Clean Air--Cool Planet, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting solutions to global warming, recently evaluated 30 retail providers of carbon offsets in the U.S. The result, The Consumers' Guide to Retail Carbon Offset Providers is the first such examination of the retail offsets market in the U.S. This report focuses solely on providers specifically offering organizations or individuals carbon neutrality through their websites.  Source: Renewable Energy Access, 12/28/2006.

Dairy Power Production and Dairy Methane Digester Reports

The California Energy Commission has announced four biomass related reports now on their Web site.  The reports include:

• Title: Dairy Power Production Program - Lourenco Dairy, Author(s): Western United Resource Development, Inc., Publication Month/Year: December 2006.
• Title: Dairy Methane Digester - Eden-Vale Dairy, Author(s): Western United Resource Development, Inc., Publication Month/Year: December 2006.
• Title: Dairy Methane Digester - Hilarides Dairy, Author(s): Western United Resource Development, Inc., Publication Month/Year: December 2006.
• Title: Dairy Methane Digester - Inland Empire Utilities, Author(s): Western United Resource Development, Inc.,Publication Month/Year: December 2006.

Source: CEC Release, 12/28/2006.

The California Solar Initiative Handbook is available

The California Solar Initiative Handbook is now available.  Also, the draft decision on ownership of Renewable Energy Credits states that 100 percent ownership belongs to the customer who purchased the solar equipment. The final decision is due in early January. Source: NorCal Solar, 12/20/2006.

News from the DOE EERE Project Management Center

Around June 2006, the U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy established the EERE Project Management Center in Golden, Colo. Its site is a "virtual hub" of project management information and resources for EERE customers, stakeholders, staff and contractors.  DOE hopes that the EERE community finds this site useful for:  Locating and tracking funding opportunities, Accessing federal forms, regulations, & circulars, Uploading and downloading reports and information updates, Researching EERE projects, And much, much more. Source: DOE/Golden Field Office, 12/28/2006.

Top Green Business Stories of 2006

It's that time again -- a time of "bests," "worsts" and "top tens" from the year just passed. I'm happy to jump into the fray, having just reviewed more than 500 news and feature stories we ran on GreenBiz.com and its sister sites during 2006. That little trip down Memory Lane presented an opportunity to see shapes as well as details -- to observe the trends that emerged or accelerated during the year in the area of business and the environment.  Source: GreenBiz.com, 1/3/2007.

For more information on Educational Resources go to: http://www.repartners.org

News from Washington

Signed, Sealed, Delivered: PTC Extension Clears Bush's Desk

As expected, President Bush on Dec. 20 signed the bill passed earlier this month that includes a one-year extension?that is, through the end of 2008?of the wind energy production tax credit.  The extension, which is part of a $45-billion package covering both trade and tax policy, maintains all aspects of current PTC law (see Wind Energy Weekly #1219). That includes a credit price of 1.9 cents per kWh, an annual adjustment for inflation, and a 10-year term for wind turbines to generate credits.  "Extending the credit now?a full year before it was set to expire on Dec 31, 2007?is enormously important," said AWEA Legislative Director Jaime Steve. Timely action by Congress will boost significant upward growth and investment for wind and other renewable energy technologies, spurring thousands of new jobs and millions of dollars in rural economic development, while also bringing cleaner air to all Americans, AWEA said.

At a press conference on the same day he signed the bill, Bush made direct reference to wind energy. "The American people expect us to reduce our dependence on foreign oil and increase our use of alternative energy sources," the President said. "So we must step up our research and investment in hydrogen fuel cells, hybrid plug-in and battery-powered cars, renewable fuels like ethanol and cellulosic ethanol and biodiesel, clean coal technology, and clean sources of electricity like nuclear, solar and wind power."  Source: AWEA Wind Energy Weekly, 12/26/2006.

For more information on legislative activities go to: http://www.repartners.org

State Activities, Marketing & Market Research

Laidlaw to Sell Renewable Energy Credits in Mass.

Laidlaw Energy Group Inc. will be able to sell renewable energy credits in Massachusetts as the result of state approval of its Ellicottville, NY Biomass Project. The Massachusetts Division of Energy Resources determined that Laidlaw's Wellons biomass energy system, installed within the biomass energy project, qualifies as "advanced, lower emission, power conversion technology."  Laidlaw states that Massachusetts has some of the most stringent requirements for renewable generator eligibility in the country, as well as some of the most favorable REC prices. It is expected that Laidlaw Energy's Ellicottville project, which uses woody biomass fuel, will now set the standard in Massachusetts for biomass projects under 10 MW seeking eligibility. RECs generate a separate source of revenue for power plants and represent a premium paid to renewable-energy generators by retail suppliers to demonstrate compliance with state-mandated renewable energy targets, Laidlaw said.  Laidlaw Energy President & CEO Michael Bartoszek states, "The ability for the Ellicottville facility to sell RECs in Massachusetts, in addition to New York, gives us a much larger market and the opportunity for significant additional revenue if prices remain high in Massachusetts due to the renewable energy supply/demand imbalance."  Laidlaw Energy Group is engaged in the development of independent power plants that generate electricity from renewable resources.  Source: Written by Staff, 12/27/2006.

Moving Ahead With Wind Power

A fair breeze is finally blowing for the proposal by Maine Mountain Power to erect 30 windmills between Carrabassett Valley and Rangeley.  Last Friday, staff at the state's Land Use Regulation Commission recommended approval of the proposal to rezone 1,000 acres of Redington Pond Range and Black Nubble Mountain to accommodate construction of the towers. The towers are projected to produce enough electricity to power 40,000 Maine homes. Developer Harley Lee -- who has been working for 17 years to get the project permitted -- heaved a sigh of relief when he heard the news, saying "It's the right project, at the right place, at the right time."

While we believe the staff's draft approval was the right thing to do, and we hope the commission itself votes in January to confirm the recommendation, our support for the project is not quite up to Lee's level of unbridled enthusiasm.   That's because -- as many environmental groups pointed out during public hearings on the proposal -- the project will mean industrial development on previously undeveloped ridgelines, where a rare subalpine ecosystem includes at least one threatened species. The project's huge turbines, lighted at night, will loom 410 feet high and will be visible from the one of the wildest and most rugged portions of the Appalachian Trail. And those turbines pose potential threats to birds and bats.  Yet in late December, when there's virtually no snow in New England, when bulbs are sending up green shoots, when winter coat manufacturers are having a crisis because nobody's buying their products, we are all mindful that -- whether it's the cause of this year's unseasonal warmth -- global climate change poses a threat to our economy and way of life. Just ask anyone who loves ice fishing, owns a snowmobile, conducts winter logging operations or skis.

So we will regret the diminishment of wildness in one of Maine's wildest places, if the Maine Mountain Power project is finally built. We will be sorry to see an unspoiled vista enjoyed by Appalachian Trail hikers and local residents marked, instead, by large, man-made turbines.  But as environmentalist Bill McKibben says, we are long past the point where appearance and even local environmental considerations can trump the demands of fighting global warming: "The choice is not between wind power and unspoiled nature. The choice is between wind power and the destruction of the world's biology." We need to change the way we generate energy, away from carbon-based fuels and toward renewable power. Maine Mountain Power's 30 turbines represent a major -- albeit painful -- step in that direction.  Source:  From the Kennebec Journal Morning Sentinel, 12/27/2006.

It's Enough To Make You Turn Green

Here's a Texas renewable energy quiz:  People choose to buy green power because (a.) they want to put more renewable energy onto the grid and less pollution into the air, or (b.) they want to keep air emissions the same but reduce the renewable energy that other customers have to use.  If you answered (a.), you outscored the Texas Legislature.

In 2005, when lawmakers were busy with the enormously complex issues of school finance and property tax relief, industry lobbyists successfully promoted a piece of stealth legislation that requires turning the state's renewable energy program on its ear.  Never mind that the Texas program is hands down the most successful in the nation. Never mind that it has done its job at less cost to customers than anywhere else. Never mind that so many Texas political leaders hailed its success on the campaign trail this fall. Unless repealed, the new law will bring all that to an end.  Here's how: Currently, each retail electric provider must obtain a minimum amount of its wholesale power supply from renewable energy sources. This year, for example, the minimum is about 2 percent of what the retailer sells.  Of course, many customers want to do better than 2 percent, and they're willing to pay a little more to do it. Rules put in place by the Public Utility Commission make it easy for providers to offer green power -- electric service that is 100 percent renewable. Voluntary demand for green power has grown rapidly ever since customers in most of the state got the power to choose in 2001. This is why Texas has reached its renewable energy goals so quickly.

The new law will make Texas green power a false choice.  Many who purchase green power do so because they want to put more renewable energy into the Texas grid to reduce the amount that must be generated using fossil fuels. But under this law, every kilowatthour of green power purchased voluntarily by customers simply would reduce the state minimum requirement. That means that chemical plants, steel mills and other customers that wouldn't buy any renewable power at all if they didn't have to could get by with purchasing less.  Ultimately, the green power purchase wouldn't increase renewable energy use at all. This is not why consumers choose to go green. They do it because they want to reduce air emissions.  With the new law, however, customers will no longer be free to make that choice. This cuts at the heart of the most important principle behind electric restructuring: the right of customers to choose and to have their choices honored.  So far, customer choice has taken Texas in the right direction with respect to global warming, energy security and emissions. Consider these facts:

Wind power has become more cost-effective.  As the cost of wind power has come down, demand for green power in Texas has gone up by about 18 percent per year.  Voluntary green power choices make up about 21 percent of the demand for renewable power in Texas. Compliance with the minimum requirement makes up the other 79 percent.  Texas has been moving closer to the day when consumer preferences for green power can replace subsidies as wind power's competitive edge in the marketplace. When that happens, Texas will deploy enough wind power to make a serious dent in the amount of electricity generated from fossil fuel.  To get there, however, customers must have the ability to choose green power today.

The new law -- Section 39.904(m) of the Utilities Code - threatens the long-term success of renewable power because it makes that choice impossible just when the green power market is gaining momentum. The PUC hasn't implemented the law yet, but if the Legislature does nothing, it will have no choice but to do so.  Politicians from the governor on down professed support for renewable energy on the campaign trail this fall. Now it's time to see who's serious and who's not.  Repealing Section 39.904(m) is the most meaningful action that the Legislature could take to promote renewable energy in Texas, but lawmakers have shown little interest.  Perhaps they need a push from their constituents.  Source: By DAVID HURLBUT, Special to the Star-Telegram, 12/26/2006.

Poll: Coal, Wind Power Development Have Strong Support; BBI Does Not.

A majority of Montanans favor large-scale energy development in the state, whether it's coal or alternative power sources like wind, a Lee Newspapers poll shows.  More than 65 percent of those polled said they favor of both types of energy development in Montana, although alternative energy was even more popular.  The poll also asked Montanans whether they like the idea of Australian-controlled firm Babcock and Brown Infrastructure buying out NorthWestern Energy, the state's largest electric-and-gas utility.  Fifty-one percent said they oppose the purchase, and only 18 percent liked the idea, leaving 31 percent undecided.  The Lee Newspapers poll, conducted Dec. 13-15 asked Montanans about a variety of issues, including many that will be considered by the 2007 Legislature, which begins Jan. 3 in Helena.

Energy development is expected to be one of marquee issues before the session, as Democratic Gov. Brian Schweitzer has made energy development a hallmark of his administration.  Schweitzer has been relentlessly promoting the use of Montana coal to produce liquid fuel, such as diesel, and electric power, through so-called ''clean coal'' technology that produces fewer byproducts than traditional coal-fired power plants.  A few such projects are in the early development or planning stages in Montana, but none is a sure thing.  Schweitzer has also been a big supporter of alternative energy and fuels, such as wind power, ethanol and biodiesel.  Both Schweitzer and Republicans have plans to push bills this session aimed at encouraging energy development in the state.  The poll asked Montanans whether they support large-scale coal development in the state, despite concerns by some that it will contribute to global warming.  Sixty-six percent said yes, while only 23 percent said they would oppose coal development. Eleven percent said they weren't sure.  Support for such plans was especially strong among those who consider themselves Republicans, by a margin of 86 percent to 11 percent. Democrats, however, were evenly split on the idea, with 41 percent both for and against.

On alternative energy, however, 75 percent said they support its development -- even if it means paying slightly higher prices for electricity. Only 19 percent disagreed and 6 percent were undecided.  Support for alternative energy, such as wind power, was strong among men, women, Democrats, Republicans and Independents.  When it comes to the BBI purchase of NorthWestern, Montanans are far more doubtful than approving, according to the survey.  BBI, which is controlled by the Australian banking group of Babcock and Brown, is proposing to pay $2.2 million for NorthWestern, the utility that serves more than 310,000 electric and gas customers in Montana.  The state Public Service Commission will decide next year whether to approve the purchase.  While opposition to the purchase was strong at 51 percent, the next-highest category was people who said they are undecided, at 31 percent. This large number of ''undecideds'' existed among all sub-groups within the poll.  Women and Democrats were more strongly against the purchase, by a margin of 57 percent to 10 percent. Men, Republicans and Independents were less negative about the BBI takeover, but still opposed it by a margin of at least 19 percentage points.  Source: By MIKE DENNISON - IR State Bureau - 12/26/06.

Seeking Simpler Solar Review: A Solar Energy Company Says That It's Too Hard to Get OK to Connect With Utilities

According to SunEdison, an energy company that has developed more than 100 commercial solar energy projects nationwide, North Carolina has most of the pieces in place for a bright solar energy future. There's ample sunshine. The state's incentive program reimburses businesses up to $2.5 million for renewable energy equipment and labor costs. And eco-friendly businesses are increasingly interested in buying solar electricity.

The solar industry could easily power the equivalent of 50 large stores here, said SunEdison's chief executive, Jigar Shah.  But North Carolina won't realize its solar potential without the backing of the state's big utilities and utility regulators, Shah said. And so far, they say, that support is lacking.  Progress Energy and Duke Energy are opposed to lowering the barriers to entry. The two utilities contend that connecting private power companies to a utility network without rigorous engineering reviews endangers utility workers and could disrupt power reliability for thousands of customers. 

Aside from making clean energy, what SunEdison proposes is unusual by North Carolina standards: By becoming an alternative to a utility monopoly, SunEdison is promoting consumer choice within the tightly regulated electric utility sector in North Carolina. Indeed, states where SunEdison is competing with regional utilities for customers, such as California and New Jersey, have been through deregulation.  Backed by state and federal incentives for alternative energy, SunEdison is able to provide electricity at about the same price as the local utility, Shah said. The 20-year contracts are structured with fixed payments, like a home mortgage -- an arrangement that eliminates future rate increases and unpredictable fluctuations in fuel costs -- something no utility can match in a state where rates are regulated. 

SunEdison installs solar panels on the roof of a commercial customer's property and enters into long-term power contracts, typically for 20 years. In periods when the sun shines, SunEdison's photovoltaic panels can provide up to 100 percent of a commercial customer's power needs, Shah said. But SunEdison's solar panels have to be connected to the utility's power grid so that at night, or on cloudy days, or during periods of high demand, a SunEdison customer can draw needed electricity from the utility.   And that's the rub, says Shah and environmentalists in North Carolina. They say that negotiating that interconnection can take many months, an investment of time and money that could sink a renewable-energy project.  "The engineering and legal costs of doing this stuff at $200 an hour can mount," said Richard Harkrader, a solar developer active in the N.C. Sustainable Energy Association.

Utilities are required to interconnect with smaller power generators, such as SunEdison, under a 1978 federal law. But utilities also have to protect the integrity of their power grids and are given discretion on quality control. An interconnection not only allows an alternative generator to replace utility power, for example, during a power outage, but also lets that generator sell surplus power back to the utility.  The N.C. Utilities Commission adopted a simplified review process last year for interconnecting small alternative power generators that produce less than 100 kilowatts. SunEdison and many environmentalists are urging the state to extend the existing streamlined program to generators up to 2 megawatts, which is 20 times more powerful than the current cutoff.

The state utilities commission has accepted SunEdison's request for review, over the objections of Progress and Duke. No date has been set for a hearing.  Progress Energy and Duke Energy contend that accelerated reviews may be sufficient for off-the-shelf solar units. But when generators reach commercial scale, the risks increase. A utility has to be sure that during an outage, a rooftop array of solar panels doesn't send out juice into the grid and fry equipment or electrocute utility workers.  The utilities insist they're not opposed to connecting with SunEdison, or other private energy companies, but say they need assurance the systems are safe and reliable, which requires a thorough review.  "Since these larger installations are unique, they should be handled on a case-by-case basis," Progress and Duke wrote in a Dec. 15 filing to the utilities commission.  Duke Energy has entered into a dozen interconnections in North Carolina.  Source: Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Business News & Observer,  1/2/2007.

"Clean Energy" Answer To Iowa's Pollution And Energy Costs

Environment Iowa's new energy policies might not only save the state over $1 billion in energy bills - they could also reduce serious pollution problems and create close to 5,000 employment opportunities by the year 2020.  Coal provides most of the state's power, but it also causes pollution from greenhouse gases, acid rain, and other dangerous particles harmful to the lungs. Redirecting Iowa's Energy report urges the state to mandate that at least 20 percent of Iowa's power comes from clean renewable energy.  Pittsburgh is also taking the step into clean energy by purchasing credits from Citizens for Pennsylvania's Future and Sustainable Pittsburgh, which acquired its energy credits through Native Energy, a renewable energy company. The purchases will go toward methane digesters to be used on farms.  In a recent interview, Nathaniel Baer, Environment Iowa policy advocate, said, "Now it's time for the Legislature to act so that our economy can tap our vast potential for wind, solar and biomass."  Source: By: Richelle Putnam - All Headline News Staff Writer, 1/2/2007.

Orion Energy, LLC Announces Acquisition by BP Alternative Energy

Orion Energy, LLC announced that it has been acquired by BP Alternative Energy, a wholly owned subsidiary of BP, one of the world's largest energy companies.  Orion Energy, LLC is a leading independent developer of large-scale wind energy projects in the US.  The company was founded in 1998, and has successfully developed approximately 1,300 megawatts of wind projects.  Orion's current portfolio has over 30 active development projects in 16 states with a potential total generating capacity in excess of 6,000 MW.  "We have undertaken a rigorous process to find the right strategic partner for Orion," said Michael Haas, President, Orion Energy. "We chose BP because of the company's long-standing commitment to find practical solutions to climate change, its financial strength and proven ability to develop long-term energy projects, and BP's significant presence in the traded US electricity markets."

BP Alternative Energy was established last year to bring together BP's low-carbon electricity businesses into a single, global company.  The unit includes BP's wind power business, solar, hydrogen power with carbon capture and storage, and natural gas generation.  The unit operates facilities in North America, Europe, Asia, Australia and Latin America.  With the acquisition of Orion Energy, BP's North American wind portfolio includes an opportunity to develop almost 100 projects with potential total generating capacity of some 15,000 MW.  Earlier this year BP announced a strategic alliance with Clipper Windpower, based in Carpinteria, California, to supply up to 4,250 MW of wind turbines over the next five years.  "We are extremely pleased to bring Orion into BP Alternative Energy," said Robert Lukefahr, President of BP Alternative Energy North America. "This acquisition provides further evidence of BP's strong commitment to its Alternative Energy business and its strategy of delivering lower-carbon electricity solutions for America," Mr. Lukefahr said.  Orion's staff and management will join BP Alternative Energy and will continue to operate from their offices in Oakland, California.  Source: Jim Eisen, Orion Energy, 12/28/2006.

Geothermal Reports and Presentations

The Geothermal Energy Association has a listing of several reports and publications on their Web site.  See the press release on their most recent report. The final report on Geothermal Resource Development in Nevada - 2006 is now available.  Source: GEA, 12/28/2006.

Energy Development Tops Legislative Agenda

For all his talk about energy development in Montana, Gov. Brian Schweitzer isn't charging into the 2007 Legislature with high-profile proposals to pave the way for big coal, wind-power and other projects.  In fact, the administration's top development officer says the Legislature and new state policy aren't that pivotal when it comes to getting such projects off the ground.  "The solutions (for energy projects) aren't always with the state of Montana," says Evan Barrett, chief business officer for the state.

Nonetheless, energy development and utility regulation will be a major topic as lawmakers hunker down in Helena for this year's Legislature.  Republican leaders are clamoring for Democrat Schweitzer to deliver on months of talk about energy development, and will use the 90-day legislative session that begins Wednesday as a platform to drill home that message.  The Schweitzer administration's energy proposals, not yet fully formed, will include tax incentives for "clean and green" power development and bills outlining "impact assistance" for counties where big development may occur.

Schweitzer also wants to expand state requirements that utilities buy a minimum amount of power from renewable sources, such as wind and hydro. The requirements apply now to NorthWestern Energy, the state's major electric utility.  Schweitzer said he'd like to extend the requirements to rural electric co-ops and Montana-Dakota Utilities, the second-largest private electric utility.  Lawmakers also will debate whether to pass some form of "re-regulation" of NorthWestern Energy. Supporters of the move want to make it easier for NorthWestern to own power plants again, saying it would lead to stable, affordable power rates.  They'll face skepticism from those who suspect NorthWestern may be more interested in padding its profits than in helping consumers. Sen. Greg Lind, D-Missoula, said his priority is ensuring that Montana utility ratepayers don't get stuck with unnecessary costs.  In the past several years, the double-edged sword of energy has become impossible to ignore in Montana.

Soaring prices have hit consumers, both at the fuel pump and in their home. But those same high prices have led to a boom in oil, natural gas, and possibly wind and coal, helping boost the state's economy, fill its treasury, and offer the promise of more development.  Schweitzer has been talking up this potential development, including a focus on "clean coal" and alternative energy development in rural eastern Montana, parts of which are starved for economic activity.  Toward that end, the Schweitzer administration will propose property-tax incentives for infrastructure that will help transport "clean and green" power. 

The administration also is working on proposals to help rural counties deal with the impacts of large-scale development of oil, gas, coal or other energy sources.  As of last week, the details on these proposals had yet to be nailed down. Republicans, eager to work with the governor on energy plans, are getting antsy.  "I think we have a real important role to play. What will define whether (Schweitzer) does anything meaningful as governor is whether he delivers on this energy policy," said Senate Minority Leader Corey Stapleton, R-Billings.

Schweitzer, however, says he's in no rush to give a blank check to energy developers. The state has great energy resources that are in strong demand, and private developers are the ones who must put up the money, take the risk and shoulder some of the impacts for major projects, he said.  "We're going to give incentives on infrastructure that is built for clean and green ... (but) they don't get a penny until they invest," Schweitzer said.

Rep. Alan Olson, R-Roundup, who chairs the House Federal Relations, Energy and Telecommunications Committee, also has some ideas on energy development and utilities.  He'd like to establish a state "transmission authority" to help coordinate construction of power lines, pipelines or other infrastructure he says is essential to energy development.  We have a tremendous amount of potential in wind-power generation," Olson said. "We can't use (all) that power in Montana. We need to sit down and figure out how to get it out of here." 

But Olson's top priority is allowing NorthWestern Energy to own regulated power plants - a reversal, somewhat, of Montana's 10-year-old policy of deregulating its major utility.  The utility will be strengthened, consumers will get reliable power and new plants could be built in Montana, he said.  Yet this move also would include the controversial policy of regulatory "pre-approval" of power projects built by the utility. Critics say this form of regulation shifts the risk of building a new plant almost entirely onto the backs of utility ratepayers.  On both of Olson's proposals, the Schweitzer administration is largely noncommittal, saying it will take a look. Source: By MIKE DENNISON Missoulian State Bureau, 1/3/2007.

For more information on marketing and research go to: http://www.nrel.gov/analysis/

Grants, RFPs & Other Funding News

USDA Grant Program to Support Renewable Energy in Iowa

The US Department of Agriculture recently announced a grants and loans program in Iowa that will allow rural business and agricultural producers to create renewable energy or make energy-saving improvements to facilities.  The grants cover up to 25 percent of project costs and can be combined with a guaranteed loan program to further lower costs.  Eligible projects will see recipients install renewable energy systems, such as wind turbines, solar, geothermal or biomass or upgrade existing facilities for energy efficiency, including installation of new electric motors or insulation and improvement to electrical or heating and cooling systems.  Source: EIN Renewable Energy Today, 12/26/2006.

Goldman Sachs Awards First 'Environmental Markets' Research Grants

The Goldman Sachs Center for Environmental Markets has awarded its first research grants, totaling more than $2.3 million, to fund programs focused on finding market-based solutions to climate change. Source: GreenBiz.com, 1/3/2007.

Joint Biomass Research and Development Initiative 

Description: The Department of Energy and the Department of Agriculture have selected 17 projects that will receive a total of $17,492,506 from the Biomass Research and Development Initiative. Including the cost sharing of the private sector partners, the total value of the projects will be over $27 million. The funds will be used for biomass research, development and demonstration projects. More than 300 applications were received in response to the solicitation. Each proposal was reviewed for technical merit by teams from industry, laboratories, and federal agencies.  Recipients: 17 projects, Award Total: $17.5 Million, Sponsoring Office: USDA, DOE.  Source: Biomass R&D Initiative Newsletter December 2006.

For more information on funding solicitations go to: http://www.repartners.org/grants.htm