Articles on Renewables in North America

Move over, Tesla: electric vehicles are about to be super-sized
May 05, 2015 - Barbara Grady - http://www.greenbiz.com/
Gone are the days of commercially-viable electric vehicles being limited to the realm of flashy sports roadsters and passenger cars. The work-a-day worlds of public transit buses and municipal garbage trucks are offering their own glimpses into a future of zero emissions vehicles.
California ‘sets very high benchmark’ for emissions reduction
April 30, 2015 - Andy Colthorpe - http://www.pv-tech.org

Jerry Brown, the governor of California, has instructed his state to follow the “most aggressive” set of targets to be put in place for emissions reduction by a government anywhere in North America via an executive order issued on Wednesday.
US Energy Secretary Tours 6.4-MW Rooftop Solar Array in Las Vegas
Oct 22, 2014 - Jennifer Runyon - renewableenergyworld.com
LAS VEGAS -- With more than 20,000 panels, one of the largest rooftop solar arrays in the U.S. is about to be commissioned on top of the Mandalay Bay Convention center in Las Vegas, Nevada. A 6.4-MW solar array, which uses SMA inverters and panels from Hanwha Q CELLS and JA Solar, covers the 20 acres of roofs on the convention center and its neighboring buildings.
SolarCity to supply Walmart with PV facilities across US
Oct 20, 2014 - Conor Ryan - pv-tech.org
SolarCity has agreed to a deal with retailer Walmart that will see the clean energy provider install PV projects at stores across 36 states over the next four years.
US solar generation and output surge in first half of 2014
Sep 10, 2014 - Ben Willis - pv-tech.org
New US utility-scale solar installations in the first half of 2014 defied a general downward trend across all generation types to surge by nearly 70% year on year, according to official figures.
How new transmission will bring Wyoming wind to California
September 10, 2014 - Herman K. Trabish - utilitydive.com
President Obama’s transmission plan aims to bring remote renewables to load centers. The national energy mix is changing and new transmission is helping make it all possible.
Reducing NYC's carbon emissions one building at a time
Aug 21, 2014 - Jenna Tatum - greenbiz.com
Hurricane Sandy highlighted New York City's vulnerabilities to coastal storms and provided a devastating snapshot of the growing risks from climate change, including rising seas, increased heat and more frequent severe weather events. In response, Mayor Bill de Blasio has committed to increasing the city's resiliency to better withstand future events, and has taken significant steps to reduce the harmful greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change.
Big Companies, Big Renewable Investments
Aug 11, 2014 - Ryan Gilchrist, Urban Green Energy - renewableenergyworld.com

Large US corporations are setting high renewable energy goals, and changing the electricity delivery system along the way.
Obama promotes Africa energy links at White House summit
Aug 4, 2014 - Megan Darby - rtcc.org
US president Barack Obama champions electricity for Africa and insists business leaders accept climate change
Lithium or Vanadium: In Energy Storage, It's No Contest
Jul 10, 2014 - Bill Watkins, Imergy Power Systems - RenewableEnergyWorld.com

Energy storage is poised to transform the electricity industry. In the U.S. alone, energy storage will grow 6x, from 120 megawatts to over 720 megawatts by 2020. Globally, it will bring power for the first time to over a billion people by letting them tap into micro-grids.
Huge North Carolina Solar Project Could “Move the Needle” for Solar’s Possibilities
Jul 10, 2014 - Jennifer Runyon, Chief Editor - renewableenergyworld.com

New Hampshire -- Coming on the heels of Apple’s announced 17.5-MW solar project in Maiden, North Carolina, spokespeople for an innovative renewable energy project involving two universities, a hospital and the largest non-utility solar PPA in the U.S. have said that it will also begin construction in North Carolina this summer.
Home of American motor racing embraces solar
Jul 2, 2014 - Andy Colthorpe - pv-tech.org
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway, US motor racing's spiritual home, has been fitted with what is claimed to be the largest solar power plant at any sporting facility in the world.
Renewables Provide 88 Percent of New US Electrical Generating Capacity in May 2014
June 23, 2014 - Kenneth Bossong - renewableenergyworld.com

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- According to the latest "Energy Infrastructure Update" report from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's Office of Energy Projects, wind, solar, biomass, and hydropower provided 88.2 percent of new installed U.S. electrical generating capacity for the month of May. Two new "units" of wind provided 203 MW, five units of solar provided 156 MW, 1 unit of biomass provided 5 MW, and 1 unit of hydropower provided 0.2 MW.
Texas utility chooses solar, claims it will be ‘coal free’by 2016
Jun 16, 2014 - Andy Colthorpe - pv-tech.org

A utility company in Texas that serves nearly 400,000 people has declared that it is not only ready to meet recently issued Environment Protection Agency (EPA) carbon standards but will be able to go entirely ‘coal-free’by 2016.
Landmark Legislation Could Put Geothermal Back on Track for California
Jun 09, 2014 - Leslie Blodgett, GEA - renewableenergyworld.com

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The California Assembly is up next to consider a 500-megawatt (MW)-by-2024 geothermal procurement bill. This follows the May 28 passage of S.B. 1139 by the state Senate in a 21-11 vote.
Divesting pensions from fossil fuels finds support
May 24, 2014 - Steve LeBlanc - washingtonpost.com

BOSTON (AP) - Environmental activists pushing Massachusetts to divest its state pension fund from fossil fuel companies are getting words of encouragement from some of the candidates running for governor.
UC San Diego Is Building the 'Motel 6' of Microgrids
May 19, 2014 - Bentham Paulos - greentechmedia.com

Byron Washom, master of UCSD’s microgrid, wants to create the nation’s most dynamic testing area for distributed energy.
DOE: There Is Major Potential To Further Develop Hydropower In U.S.
May 5, 2014 - renewgridmag.com

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and its Oak Ridge National Laboratory have released a renewable energy resource assessment detailing the potential to develop new electric power generation in waterways across the U.S.
The Crazy Economics of the Wind Industry in Two Charts
May 5, 2014 - Todd Woody - theatlantic.com

The news from the wind industry last week didn’t look good. The booming business of minting money out of thin air had imploded between 2012 and 2013, as this chart from the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) shows.
Energy Dept. Report Finds Major Potential to Grow Clean, Sustainable U.S. Hydropower
Apr 29, 2014 - energy.gov
WASHINGTON – Building on the Obama Administration's commitment to an all-of-the-above energy strategy, the Energy Department and its Oak Ridge National Laboratory released a renewable energy resource assessment today detailing the potential to develop new electric power generation in waterways across the United States. The report estimates over 65 gigawatts (GW) of potential new hydropower development across more than three million U.S. rivers and streams – nearly equivalent to the current U.S. hydropower capacity. These findings demonstrate one of the ways the United States can further diversify its energy portfolio with sustainable and clean domestic power generation.
Utilities responsible for 80% of US solar in 2013 - SEPA
Apr 28, 2014 - Ben Willis - pv-tech.org

California-based Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) has topped the list of US utilities that added most new solar capacity to their systems in 2013.
Smart Wind and Solar Power
Apr 28 2014 - Kevin Bullis - technologyreview.com

Wind power is booming on the open plains of eastern Colorado. Travel seven miles north of the town of Limon on Highway 71 and then head east on County Road 3p, a swath of dusty gravel running alongside new power lines: within minutes you’ll be surrounded by towering wind turbines in rows stretching for miles. Three large wind farms have been built in the area since 2011. A new one is going up this year.
Intel, Microsoft, Google, Apple are among the 'Top 10'
Apr 25, 2014 - renewableenergyfocus.com

EPA's Green Power Partnership list of the Top 100 organizations that are choosing to use electricity from clean, renewable sources like wind and solar power shows that tech firms are leading the charge.
Gov. Cuomo's Successful NY-Sun Solar Program Will Shine Through 2023
Apr 24, 2014 - businesswire.com

Businesses, advocates, and environmental groups joined together to applaud Gov. Andrew Cuomo for extending the successful NY-Sun Initiative to install ten times more solar power in New York State by 2023. Announced today in honor of Earth Week, the Governor’s bold expansion of the state’s landmark solar program will support thousands of jobs, lower solar costs and increase energy reliability for New Yorkers.
Solar Power Grows 400 Percent in Only 4 Years
Apr 24, 2014 - Daniel Cusick - scientificamerican.com

Driven by an explosion in photovoltaics, the U.S. solar sector has emerged "from a relatively small contributor to the nation's total electric capacity into a one of comparative significance," the Energy Information Administration reported this week in its latest Electricity Monthly Update.
How One State's Net Metering Expansion Offers a Model to the Nation
Apr 16, 2014 - Andrew Savage - renewableenergyworld.com

While battles rage with utilities taking on both solar customers and businesses around the country, Vermont has quietly expanded its net metering program by nearly four-times without so much as a skirmish.
EIA: Twelve states responsible for majority of U.S. wind power in 2013
Apr 15, 2014 - power-eng.com

In 2013, 12 states were responsible for 80 percent of U.S. wind power, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration’s (EIA) Electric Power Monthly report.
Climate change doubling big power outages, group says
Apr 11, 2014 - Dan Gearino - The Columbus Dispatch

An increase in severe weather has led to a doubling of major power outages across the country in the past decade, according to a new report from a climate-change research group.
U.S. Wind Power Blows New Records. Again. And Again.
Apr 7,2014 - Tom Randall - bloomberg.com

Wind was responsible for 4.8 percent of America’s electricity used in January. That’s the highest January total ever, breaking the record from last January, which broke the record for the January before that, and so on. The chart below shows the latest data from the U.S. Energy Information Association.
Wind Energy: On the grid, Off the Checkerboard
Apr 1,2014 - Jason Bardi - aip.org

WASHINGTON D.C., April 1, 2014 -- As wind farms grow in importance across the globe as sources of clean, renewable energy, one key consideration in their construction is their physical design -- spacing and orienting individual turbines to maximize their efficiency and minimize any "wake effects," where the swooping blades of one reduces the energy in the wind available for the following turbine.
Former US energy secretary Chu: Utilities need to respond to 'disruptive' solar-plus-batteries
Mar 25, 2014 - Andy Colthorpe - pv-tech.org

Former US energy secretary Steven Chu has claimed battery storage technology used in combination with solar could be “as disruptive to electricity distribution and generation as the internet”.
Pace quickens for extinction of coal-fired electric in the US
Mar 25, 2014 - Steve Davidson - commdiginews.com

SALEM, Ore., March 24, 2014 — The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) recently reported that nine more coal-fired electric power plants have been scheduled for retirement. EIA has revised its forecast for coal-fired plant retirements upward twice since November.
White House announces new climate change data website
Mar 19, 2014 - Neela Banerjee - latimes.com

WASHINGTON -- As part of its campaign to step up efforts to address climate change, the White House on Wednesday announced the creation of a new website to serve as a one-stop location for the enormous amount of climate data housed at different federal agencies.
TECHNOLOGY: A tour of America's fanciest microgrid
Mar 13, 2014 - David Ferris - eenews.net

SAN DIEGO -- It is a Friday, and Byron Washom is obliged to give yet another tour of the microgrid at the University of California, San Diego. Last week it was utility executives, and next week it would be a honcho from the Navy. The requests keep coming in. "It's just nonstop," he said.
IHS: Mexico joins South Africa and Turkey in top three emerging PV markets
Mar 12, 2014 - Andy Colthrope - PV-tech.org

Several hundred megawatts of PV projects currently under construction in Mexico are driving the country to third place in the world for attractiveness to investors, developers and manufacturers in the solar industry, according to analysis firm IHS.
US power grid costs rise, but service slips
Mar 5, 2013 - JONATHAN FAHEY - apnews.excite.com

NEW YORK (AP) - America's power grid is like an old car. It gets the job done, even if its performance is slipping. But the repair bills go up every year and experts say only a major overhaul will reverse its decline.
California solar power hits new production record
Mar 11, 2011 - Conor Ryan - pv-tech.org

Solar power production in California hit a new record on 8 March 2014, as output reached 4,093MW. The mark broke the previous record of 3,926 MW set just a day before on 7 March, according to California Independent System Operator (ISO).
HCPV cell efficiencies to exceed 45% by 2017, says IHS
Mar 10, 2014 - Andy Colthorpe - pv-tech.org

High-concentration PV (HCPV) systems will reach cell efficiencies exceeding 45% by 2017, while the world’s biggest regional markets for HCPV will be in the United States and central America, according to a new report by analysis firm IHS.
Renewable Energy in MENA Area to Double Next Year, Desertec Says
Mar 6, 2014 - Anthony DiPaola - bloomberg.com

Clean-energy assets in the Middle East and North Africa will more than double in capacity by the end of next year, the Dii GmbH industry association said.
Transformers could be weak link in U.S. power grid
Mar 4, 2014 - Upi.com

NEW YORK, March 4 (UPI) -- Electrical transformers are the Achilles heel of the U.S. power grid, experts say, because of the threat of physical as well as cyberattacks.
Austin, Texas Approves Wind Power Agreement to Achieve Utility's Renewables Goal Four Years Early
Mar 3, 2014 - Wayne Barber, GenerationHub - renewableenergyworld.com

The Austin, Texas, City Council approved a wind power contract Feb. 27 that enables Austin Energy to achieve its goal of delivering 35 percent of all of its electricity from renewable sources four years ahead of its goal, the utility said in a news release.
Solar with batteries could allow US 'grid defection' by 2030: Rocky Mountain Institute
Feb 26, 2014 - Andy Colthorpe - pv-tech.org

The Rocky Mountain Institute has published a report which claims it could be possible, using PV coupled with storage, for portions of the USA to "defect" away from using grid networks entirely by 2030.
Powering the US with Renewables: A State-By-State Roadmap
Feb 24, 2014 - James Montgomery - renewableenergyworld.com

New Hampshire, USA -- What does it take to convert a city, a state, a nation, to 100 percent renewable energy? Many countries are giving it a go with very ambitious goals to be 100-percent powered by renewable energy (islands seem to have a leg up). But what about right here in the U.S., how could that be achieved for this nation? And since all politics is local (and most especially true for renewable energy policies), how could it be done by individual states?
A Third Of The Nation's Solar Industry Jobs Are Found In California
Feb 11, 2014 - Lydia O'Connor - huffingtonpost.com

California is home to nearly one-third of the nation’s solar industry jobs, with almost five times the number as any other state, according to a report from The Solar Foundation.
U.S. solar industry employs more than coal, gas combined
Jan 31, 2014 - Sustainable Business News - greenbiz.com

The annual census of U.S. solar jobs is in — and as of 2013, the industry now employs about 143,000 Americans.
Solar Jobs Climb Almost 20% in 2013
Jan 28, 2014 - insideclimatenews.org

Solar jobs in the U.S. climbed nearly 20% in the 14 months through November as cheaper panels and rising electricity rates spurred people to turn to solar.
US Solar Jobs Growing Ten Times Faster than National Average Employment Growth
Jan 27, 2014 - Jennifer Runyon - Renewable Energy World.COM

New Hampshire, USA -- Today The Solar Foundation (TSF), a non-profit organization that seeks to further the understanding of solar energy through research and public education, released its 4th National Jobs Census report, which shows remarkable growth in the U.S. labor market as it pertains to solar energy employment.
Armed forces see rise in renewable energy
Jan 16, 2014 - Shan Li - latimes.com

The use of clean energy technology has seen a sharp rise in military sites in the U.S., as the armed forces push into green sources of power around the country, a report said.
Top 10 US states offer more than 40GW of solar PV pipeline capacity
Jan 14, 2014 - Michael Barker - pv-tech.org

At the end of 2013, based on annual market demand, the top 10 states for solar PV in the US had an aggregate project pipeline of approximately 2,000 non-residential projects. This represents almost 40GW of potential PV capacity.
Infographic: State of US Solar 2013
Dec 11, 2013 - Mike Munsell - greentechmedia.com

This week, GTM Research and SEIA published the Q3 2013 U.S. Solar Market Insight report. The infographic below details some key milestones that the U.S. solar market will hit by the end of 2013.
Google to invest in solar farms in California and Arizona
Nov 15, 2013 - Shan Li - latimes.com

Google Inc. plans to invest $80 million in six utility-scale solar facilities in California and Arizona as the tech behemoth continues to put money toward alternative energy projects.
Report card grades US states by solar friendliness
Nov 4, 2013 - John Parnell - pv-tech.org

The latest ranking of US states for the solar friendliness of their utilities and grids has been released, with California, Massachusetts, Oregon and Utah picked out for special praise.
US military warms to electric cars
Oct 31, 2013 - David J. Unger - csmonitor.com

Defense Department plans to buy 92,000 hybrid and electric vehicles over the next seven years to trim its fuel bill. They could be especially cost-effective in war zones.
US Solar Surge: Flipping Switches on a Hoover Dam of Utility-scale Concentrated Solar Power
Oct 29, 2013 - Susan Kraemer, Correspondent - renewableenergyworld.com

During this month’s U.S. government shutdown, an astonishing 1.3 GW of CSP began commercial operation, thanks to the Department of Energy’s former loan guarantee program for clean energy. Another several gigawatts is in construction.
Major pension funds ask for climate change study
Oct 24, 2013 - Kevin Begos - Yahoo.com

PITTSBURGH (AP) — Some of the largest pension funds in the U.S. and the world are worried that major fossil fuel companies may not be as profitable in the future because of efforts to limit climate change, and they want details on how the firms will manage a long-term shift to cleaner energy sources.
California poised to adopt first-in-nation energy storage mandate
Oct 16, 2013 - Dana Hull - mercurynews.com

A California law that requires utilities to get 33 percent of their electricity from renewable sources like solar and wind is widely credited with accelerating the state's cleantech economy. Now state regulators are poised to compel utilities to invest in "energy storage," which could jump-start technology long considered the holy grail of the electricity industry.
Toyota, Apple and Intel among big business in US embracing solar
Oct 16, 2011 - John Parnell - pv-tech.org

Car manufacturers and high-tech firms Apple and Intel are among the most noticeable additions to the Solar Energy Industries Association’s (SEIA) list of commercial PV customers.
California solar policy costing all utility customers -report
Sep 26, 2013 - Nichola Groom - Reuters

(Reuters) - California's non-solar homeowners are paying a growing share of maintaining the power grid under a controversial state policy, while ratepayers with solar rooftops are paying less, a report commissioned by the state's utility regulator said on Thursday.
Governor vows to install undersea cable despite opposition
Sep 10, 2013 - hawaiicleanenergyinitiative.com

(Honolulu Star-Advertiser) Gov. Neil Abercrombie on Monday reiterated his administration's commitment to connecting the state's electrical grids with an undersea transmission cable, telling officials gathered for a global energy conference that such a strategy would allow the islands to share renewable energy resources and ultimately bring down electricity costs.
Duke Energy: Five Coal-Fired Plants Will Be Retired By 2018
Aug 30, 2013 - Rick Callhan - huffingtonpost.com

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Duke Energy has agreed to retire five coal-fired power plants in western Indiana by June 2018 under a settlement announced Friday with environmental and citizens groups that also calls for the company to increase its investments in renewable energy.
Energy Dept. Reports: U.S. Wind Energy Production and Manufacturing Reaches Record Highs
Aug 6, 2013 - energy.gov

WASHINGTON – The Energy Department released two new reports today showcasing record growth across the U.S. wind market -- increasing America’s share of clean, renewable energy and supporting tens of thousands of jobs nationwide. According to these reports, the United States continues to be one of the world’s largest and fastest growing wind markets. In 2012, wind energy became the number one source of new U.S. electricity generation capacity for the first time – representing 43 percent of all new electric additions and accounting for $25 billion in U.S. investment.
Marines push to front lines in renewable energy innovation
Jul 18, 2013 - Justin Gerdes - greenbiz.com

Last month at the U.S. Marine Corps' Mojave Desert combat training center, some of the military's best and brightest gathered to test the latest in energy-saving gear.
Power plant limits at center of Obama climate plan
Jun 25, 2013 - JOSH LEDERMAN and MATTHEW DALY - Yahoo.com

Taking climate change efforts into his own hands, President Barack Obama is proposing sweeping steps to limit heat-trapping pollution from coal-fired power plants and to boost renewable energy production on federal property.
SDG&E SAYS SUNRISE POWERLINK IS DELIVERING AS IT WAS DESIGNED TO
Jun 17, 2013 - By San Diego Gas & Electric

(The following article is a press release from SDG&E. San Diego Loves Green has just sent SDG&E and one of the community leaders opposing development of large renewable scale projects in East County a series of questions, which we hope to publish as a Q&A.)
European Investment Bank backs US$500 million clean energy project in Central America
Aug 23, 2013 - John Parnell - pv-tech.org

The European Investment Bank (EIB) is to invest US$230 million in renewable energy projects in Central America.
Presidential Permit Filing Opens Door to Creation of New Alaska Renewable Energy Export Industry
Aug 19 - KETCHIKAN, Alaska - Business Wire - energycentral.com

In a move aimed at expanding the market for Southeast Alaska's vast renewable hydro resource, Alaska Power & Telephone Company subsidiary Soule Hydro, LLC (Soule Hydro) has applied for a Presidential permit to construct and operate the first electric transmission line crossing the United States border delivering Alaska-based renewable electric energy into Canada.
Extreme weather to dictate future energy projects
Aug 19, 2013 - McClatchy-Tribune Regional News - Ken Dixon Connecticut Post, Bridgeport - energycentral.com

Large-scale infrastructure projects will be prioritized with extreme weather and climate change in mind, according to a new report issued this morning by the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development.
REPORT: U.S. ELECTRICAL GRID COULD BE RELIABLE WITH MUCH HIGHER LEVEL OF RENEWABLES
Apr 17, 2013 - civilsocietyinstitute.org

WASHINGTON, D.C.///April 17, 2013///If the U.S. ceases to burn coal, shuts down a quarter of existing nuclear reactors, and trims its use of natural gas by 2050, the resulting increased reliance on wind, solar and other renewables will not result in a less reliable electricity grid, according to a major new report prepared by Synapse Energy Economics, Inc., for the nonprofit Civil Society Institute (CSI).
EPA Announces U.S. Organizations Using the Most Green Power
Apr 17, 2013 - Latosha Thomas - yosemite.epa.gov

WASHINGTON –– Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)’s Green Power Partnership released an updated list of the Top 50 organizations that are choosing to use electricity from clean, renewable sources.
Fact Sheets: President Obama and Leaders of Mexico and Central America Expand Low Carbon Electricity Cooperation
May 4, 2011 - newsroomamerica.com
U.S. installs more than 3,300 MW of solar PV in 2012
Mar 14, 2013 - power-eng.com

U.S. photovoltaic installations in 2012 increased 76 percent over 2011 numbers to 3,313 MW, with an estimated market value of $11.5 billion, according to GTM Research and the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA)’s “U.S. Solar Market Insight 2012 Year In Review.”
California continues to lead nation in green technology
Mar 20, 2013 - Ronald D. White - latimes.com

The state is No. 1 in areas such as venture capital funding for green technology, green tech patents and the growth in clean power generation, a group says.
Nationwide solar installations soared 76 percent in 2012
Mar 14, 2013 - recordnet.com

NEW YORK (AP) — Solar panel installations in the U.S. grew 76 percent in 2012 as the cost of panels and the surrounding equipment continued to fall, according to an annual report by a solar trade group.
Can Wind, Water and Sunlight Power New York by 2050?
Mar 12, 2013 - By Andrew C. Revkin

A group of scientists and energy analysts has laid out a path under which New York State could, in theory, eliminate its use of fossil fuels and nuclear power — including for transportation —by 2050.
US installs 845MW in Q2 2013 - May 17, 2013
Nilima Choudhury - pvtech.org

The US increased its installed solar capacity by 142.8% in the first quarter of 2013 compared to the same period last year, according to figures provided by the US Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.
Report: Solar takes 100% share of new US grid-connected electricity in March
By Julia Chan - 12 April 2013

Solar energy has achieved a milestone after it emerged that for the first time, solar accounted for all new utility electricity capacity added to the grid in the US in March.
Secretary Jewell approves 450MW of solar in Arizona and Nevada
By Fergus March - 04 June 2013

US secretary of the interior Sally Jewell has approved two new mega-solar energy projects in the south-western states totalling 450MW as part of president Obama's 'all of the above' energy strategy.
CAISO And PacifiCorp Join Forces To Boost Western Grid Reliability, Integrate Renewables
Feb 13, 2013 - renewgrid.com
PacifiCorp and the California Independent System Operator (CAISO) have released a memorandum of understanding that commits the two largest western U.S. grid operators to work toward creating a real-time energy imbalance market (EIM) by October 2014. Authorization to proceed with negotiating a formal agreement between the companies will be considered by CAISO's board of governors during its general meeting in March.
Interactive Map Shows Geothermal Resource
Feb 12, 2013 - energy.gov
Source: Jeff Barnard, AP Environmental Writer
GRANTS PASS, Ore. (AP) — With the click of a mouse, anyone from geologists to school kids can now explore geothermal energy potential in Oregon.
Report Shows Energy Efficiency and Renewables Are Best Alternatives for Replacing Duke's Coal and Nuclear Plants
Feb 6, 2013 - ucsusa.org

WASHINGTON (February 6, 2013) -- Duke Energy Corp. announced yesterday that it will permanently close the Crystal River nuclear power plant in Florida and is considering constructing a natural gas-fired power plant to replace the power. The utility also plans to keep open coal-fired units at Crystal River.
Texas mega-battery aims to green up the grid
Feb 1, 2013 - Hal Hodson - newscientist.com

IN A remote corner of west Texas, in the shadow of a sprawling wind farm, one of the world's largest batteries was switched on last week. Deep in oil country, the battery is at the vanguard of efforts to help renewable energy sources realise their potential and, ultimately, oust fossil fuels in the US.
California Public Utilities Commission: Renewables Portfolio Standard Quarterly Report
4th Quarter 2011

Cost Reporting in Compliance with SB 836.
Clinton calls for rebuilding U.S. electric grid to carry more wind and solar power
Daniel Cusick,E&E reporter
ClimateWire:Thursday,December 13,2012

CHICAGO -- Former President Clinton supports extending the production tax credit (PTC) for wind energy as part of a plan to build a national electricity grid that could move hundreds of thousands of megawatts of trapped wind and solar power from sparsely populated states to urban markets.
How Chicago’s municipal aggregation could be a boon for renewable energy
Nov 15, 2012 - Kari Lydersen - midwestenergynews.com

When Chicago voters approved municipal aggregation on Election Day, some celebrated the possibilities offered by breaking with utility ComEd for alternative providers, while others worried whether it would be a wash or even a blow for renewable energy.
NREL/DOE Launch New Alternative Transportation Web Tools
Nov 09,2012 -National Renewable-Energy Laboratory

The U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has launched a new tool and redesigned DOE's Alternative Fuels Data Center Web site to help fleet managers, municipalities and consumers choose from a wide variety of alternative fuels and energy efficiency strategies for reducing petroleum use, vehicle emissions, and operating costs.
Freshwater Fish Are Dying at Alarming Rates
Nov 09,2012 -scientificamerican.com

We may not miss the phantom shiner, the thicktail chub, the stumptooth minnow or the harelip sucker, but these freshwater fishes are among 39 species (3.2 percent of North America's freshwater fish population) and 18 subspecies that have vanished from the continent's waters over the past century. By 2050 the tally could reach as high as 86, an extinction rate that is about 877 times higher than normal and that has accelerated in the past 20 years, according to a study in the September issue of BioScience. When so many fish disappear in a short period, “you know something's up,” says study author Noel M. Burkhead of the U.S. Geological Survey.
CLINTON LAYS OUT GOAL OF INTEGRATED POWER GRID IN THE AMERICAS
Oct 18, 2012 - Barry Cassell - transmissionhub.com

The Obama Administration, along with other countries in the Americas, is working toward the concept of an integrated electricity grid that stretches from northern Canada to the southern tip of South America.
US Army to Buy $7 Billion in Renewable Energy
Aug 16,2012 - sustainablebusiness.com
On the heels of the Department of Defense's (DoD) decision to consider up to 16 million acres of military land for renewable energy projects, the Army is actively seeking private sector partners to help make that development happen.
With 'Facts' Website, California Looks to Thwart Opposition to Climate Change
Aug 15, 2012 - Jim Malewitz - pewstates.org

Perhaps more than any other state, California has acted on the scientific consensus that global climate change is real and man-made. By 2020, California utilities will have to obtain a third of their energy from renewable sources. And in November, the state plans to roll out a “cap-and-trade”system to limit greenhouse gas emissions. Its development plans account for rising sea levels, eroding coastlines and dwindling fresh-water resources.
Energy Report: U.S. Wind Industry Surges in 2011
Aug 15, 2012 - eere.energy.gov

The Energy Department released a new report on August 14 highlighting strong growth in the U.S. wind energy market in 2011. According to the 2011 Wind Technologies Market Report, the United States remained one of the world’s largest and fastest growing wind markets in 2011.
The rise–and possible fall–of U.S. wind power
Aug 14, 2012 - Brad Plumer - washingtonpost.com

It’s getting harder and harder to call wind power a niche source of electricity in the United States. Last year, wind turbines represented one-third of all new generation capacity built in the country, behind only natural gas. At this point, wind provides 3 percent of the country’s electricity. In a few states, such as South Dakota, Minnesota and Iowa, wind provides more than 10 percent of all electricity.
Lockheed Martin to Integrate Fuel Cells, Solar Power for Military Apps
Aug 14, 2012 - solardaily.com

Lockheed Martin secured a contract with the Office of Naval Research for the design and development of solid oxide fuel cell generator sets as an alternative to traditional battlefield power generation equipment. Lockheed Martin's fuel cell technology will be integrated with solar panels, providing the military with the power needed to perform missions while using dramatically less fuel.
New York to inject US$107 million into large-scale PV projects over 2 years
Aug 13, 2012 - Julia Chan - pv-tech.org

Through the NY-Sun Initiative — a programme which aims to co-ordinate a well-funded solar energy expansion plan — US$107 million will be injected into the NY-Sun Competitive PV Program to facilitate the development of large-scale PV systems throughout New York, US, Governor Andrew Cuomo has announced.
US Army Corps of Engineers issues RFP for renewable energy projects
Aug 8, 2012 - Syanne Olson - pv-tech.org

Through its Engineering and Support Centre, Huntsville, the US Army Corps of Engineers has issued a multiple-award task order contract (MATOC) RFP for US$7 billion in total contract capacity for the acquisition of locally generated, renewable and alternative energy through PPAs.
Joining Forces on Renewable Energy Development
Aug 6, 2012 - Melissa C. Lott - scientificamerican.com

A partnership between the Interior and Defense departments will reopen 16 million acres of land to renewable energy development. The goal? To help ensure reliable energy supplies for the nation’s military bases, while protecting the environment and saving taxpayer money.
PSE&G plans US$883 million investment to expand its solar projects
Aug 2, 2012 - Julia Chan- pv-tech.org

Public Service Electric and Gas (PSE&G), a US electric and gas company, has announced that it will submit a request to New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU) for approval to invest up to US$883 million to expand its Solar 4 All and Solar Loan programmes in order to develop an additional 233MW of solar capacity. The expansion is expected to create around 300 jobs per year over the next five years.
Walmart hits 100th solar installation milestone in California
Aug 1, 2012 - Julia Chan - pv-tech.org

US retail giant Walmart is continuing to fulfill its promise to invest in renewable energy and has installed solar panels on the rooftop of its College Avenue store in San Diego to generate electricity. This marks the company’s 100th solar installation in California and is in line with its aim to expand its solar portfolio to more than 75% of its stores in the state, approximately 130 stores, by the end of 2013.
GEA National Geothermal Summit to address challenges in advancing geothermal industry in California and beyond
Jul 26, 2012 - renewableenergyworld.com

As California is in the midst of policy decisions that will determine its energy future, the GEA National Geothermal Summit will bring policy and industry leaders together in Sacramento Aug. 7-8.
OCI and CPS's 400MW project will drive US$700 million into Texan economy
Jul 24, 2012 - Nilima Choudhury - pv-tech.org

Endemic overcapacity and continued price declines within the polysilicon sector impeded Korean OCI Company’s previously announced plans for the construction of two plants in May. Nevertheless, its North-American arm, OCI Solar Power, has signed a landmark deal with CPS Energy in San Antonio, Texas, to develop more than 400MW of projects. The contracts are based on a 25-year power purchase agreement.
SolarCity partners with Credit Suisse on second round of investment for solar panel installations
Jul 25, 2012 - Syanne Olson - pv-tech.org

SolarCity announced that it has partnered with Credit Suisse on a second round of investment. The investment will go towards building solar panel installations and will help offset the upfront cost of solar panels for SolarCity customers. Each round included an investment of US$100 million from Credit Suisse, for a total of US$200 million.
Credit Suisse provides US$200 million commitment to Sunrun
Jul 25, 2012 - Syanne Olson - pv-tech.org

Credit Suisse, which just announced its US$200 million partnership with Solar City, has additionally advised that it has committed US$200 million to Sunrun. The investment will help support the purchase and installation of thousands of residential solar systems in the US.
Solar cells that convert windows into energy producers
Jul 23, 2012 - timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Researchers have fashioned a new transparent solar cell that will not only permit windows at homes to generate power but also enable people to see outside.
U.S. Lags Behind Other Countries In Energy-Efficiency Efforts
Jul 18, 2012 - renewgridmag.com

The U.K. ranks first in a new energy-efficiency ranking of the world's major economies, and is followed closely by Germany, Italy and Japan, according to the International Energy Efficiency Scorecard, published by the nonprofit American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE).
Why the U.S. Fracking Industry Worries About the Weather in India
Jul 17, 2012 -Hilary Hylton - world.time.com

It's all about a bean that is essential to making the technology flow, literally. In the meantime, Indian farmers have hit pay dirt.
Big Military Solar Project Expands To New Bases
Jul 17, 2012 -Todd Woody - forbes.com

SolarCity has embarked on the second phase of Project SolarStrong, a billion dollar initiative to install solar panels on 120,000 units of privately managed U.S. military housing.
New Database from NREL Makes Costs of Energy Technologies More Transparent
Jul 16, 2012 - Bill Opalka - renewablesbiz.com

A new web application collects cost and performance estimates for electric generation, advanced vehicles, and renewable fuel technologies and makes them available for utilities, policy makers, consumers, and academics. The Transparent Cost Database (TCDB) app provides technology cost and performance estimates that can be used to benchmark company costs, model energy scenarios, and inform research and development decisions.
WGA seeks ways to add renewables
Jul 15, 2012 - Bill Opalka - renewablesbiz.com

Greater amounts of renewable energy are continually being added to the power mix in the Western states, so ways to integrate those resources are paramount.
New US financing alternative to tax incentive could increase installations by 75%
Jul 9, 2012 - Nilima Choudhury - pv-tech.org

The US Senate’s recent vote to not extend the Department of Treasury’s solar energy tax incentive has resulted in a creative alternative by underwriters from financial institutions like Bank of America to Credit Suisse and Citigroup. This option would convert “sunlight into cash to pay bond investors,” reports Bloomberg. The SEIA predicts solar installations could increase by 75%, exceeding the 3,200MW goal for 2012.
California installs 1GW in 2011
Jul 4, 2012 - Nilima Choudhury - pv-tech.org

In 2011, California became the first US state to install more than 1GW of customer-generated solar energy, according to figures published by the California Public Utilities Commission. The report, California Solar Initiative (CSI) also demonstrates that 311MW were installed in the investor-owned utility territories last year. The CSI program has received a budget of US$2.4 billion and is aiming to reach 1,940MW of solar capacity by the end of 2016.
Salazar Approves First-Ever Commercial Solar Energy Project on American Indian Trust Lands
Jun 26, 2012 - doi.gov

350 megawatt photovoltaic facility in Nevada will benefit Moapa Band of Paiute Indians, generate enough power for over 100,000 homes
Obama Administration Announces Major Steps Forward to Advance Energy Efficiency Efforts, Improve Access to Low-Cost Financing for States and Local Com
Jun 23, 2012 - energy.gov

The Obama Administration today announced 36 new states, local governments, and school districts have joined President Obama's Better Buildings Challenge. These new commitments total nearly 300 million square feet in job-creating building energy upgrades, equivalent to more than 130 Empire State Buildings.
Is 80 Percent Renewables by 2050 Wishful Thinking?
Jun 20, 2012 - Bill Opalka - energybiz.com

How much renewable energy can the United States accommodate over the coming decades is the subject of a new report published by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL).
IBM partners with CUNY to study, establish solar adoption in New York City
Jun 8, 2012 - Syanne Olson - pv-tech.org

IBM and CUNY Ventures, a City University of New York (CUNY) Economic Development unit, have partnered under the Smart NY program in order to encourage the adoption of solar. The program aims to develop the ability to analyse and understand key solar market indicators that make solar systems more cost competitive by using IBM’s Intelligent Operation Centre (IOC) for Smarter Cities.
Enfinity completes 1.1MW solar project for Macy's distribution centre in New Jersey
Jun 6, 2012 - Syanne Olson - pv-tech.org

Retail giant, Macy’s, has added a new solar array to the rooftop of its Edison, New Jersey distribution centre. The 1.1MW project, completed by Enfinity America is operational and expected to generate nearly 1.3 million kWh of energy per year. Enfinity owns the solar plant and under a 20-year PPA, will sell the electricity produced to Macy’s at a fixed rate. Co-developed by SunConnect, the project received longer-term financing through PSE&G’s SREC-based solar loan program.
CNPV celebrates Enel Green Power's solar geothermal hybrid project completion in Nevada
Jun 6, 2012 - Syanne Olson - pv-tech.org

CNPV Solar Power executives were on hand, May 2, at Enel Green Power’s inauguration ceremony for its solar geothermal hybrid project in Stillwater, Nevada. CNPV supplied its PV modules for the project, which has 33MW of geothermal capacity and 26MW of solar capacity. Initiated and owned by Enel Green Power, the project is said to be the world’s first and only geothermal hybrid project.
Obama administration to install 3GW on military installations
April 12, 2012 - Nilima Choudhury - pv-tech.org

US President Barak Obama believes national security lies in energy independence. Overall, the country’s reliance on foreign oil has fallen since 2005, with net imports of total consumption declining from 57% in 2008 to 45% in 2011 – claimed by the administration to be the lowest level since 1995.
Enhanched Geothermal Systems: Have a Little Faith
March 13, 2012 - Meg Cichon - renewableenergyworld.com

New Hampshire, U.S.A. -- Geothermal resource hot spots: Nevada, Arizona, California, and…Pennsylvania? Yes, even the east coast looks like a viable location for geothermal energy. Why? Enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) are making it possible.
A Tour of the U.S.'s Clean Energy Future [Slide Show]
Mar 8, 2012 - David Biello - scientificamerican.com

The third annual ARPA-E summit showcases potentially transformative energy technologies
N.C. region becoming a hotbed for renewable energy
Nov. 16, 2011 - Jeff Hampton - istockanalyst.com

In a Hertford County field where rows of corn once grew, rows of solar panels now stand -- 20,000 panels that will soon convert sunshine into enough electricity to power a small town.
ND wind power set for big expansion
Oct. 19, 2011 - Christopher Bjorke - bismarcktribune.com

North Dakota's wind energy capacity will likely grow by more than a third in 2012, driven by renewable energy standards and the uncertain future of a federal incentive.
US Could be a Solar Nation by 2026
Oct. 19, 2011 - sustainablebusiness.com

If the US had installed solar at the same pace as Germany, most of the 10 Mountain West states could be entirely powered by solar today, and the US could be a 100% solar nation by 2026.
The Military's Conversion To Renewables Will Save Soldiers' Lives
Oct. 19, 2011 - Michael J. Coren - scientificamerican.com

Guarding the fuel trucks that power America's armed forces overseas has turned into a deadly job. The military is realizing that saving money on gas isn't the most important reason to switch to clean fuel.
U.S. Study Suggests Pricing Carbon from Ground to Consumer
Oct. 19, 2011 - scientificamerican.com

To measure a country's greenhouse emissions from fossil fuels, it makes sense to consider the whole carbon supply chain, from oil well or coal mine to a consumer's shelf, scientists reported on Monday.
Rooftop Solar Could Power 20% of D.C. and Save Ratepayers Money
Oct 5, 2011 - John Farrell - renewableenergyworld.com

For many years the citizens of Washington, D.C. struggled for the basic right to elect their own leaders. In 2011, they should use their political home rule to maximize the economic benefits of local renewable energy with “electricity home rule.”
One of World's Largest Rooftop Solar Photovoltaic Projects to Be Constructed in Windsor, Ontario
Sept. 30, 2011 - marketwire.com

Ontario-based solar installation company Solar & AlternativeTechnology Corp. has partnered with solar panel manufacturer Soventix Canada Inc., known as Sovello in Canada, and Hiram Walker & Sons Ltd., the historic Windsor, Ontario based producer of brands like Wiser's® Canadian whisky and Malibu® rum, to design and build the largest rooftop solar photovoltaic plant in Canada, at 7.9MW.
Gigawatt-scale loan guarantees: First Solar gets DOE conditional commitments for Calif project trio
Sept. 30, 2011 - Tom Cheyney - pv-tech.org

First Solar and its partners have received nearly $3.8 billion in new partial or full conditional loan guarantee commitments from the US Department of Energy. The commitments will be used to support the development of three major utility-scale solar farm projects in southern and central California, with a combined projected installed capacity of >1.3GW(AC) of the company's CdTe thin-film modules—Antelope Valley Solar Ranch One (230MW), Desert Sunlight (550MW), and Topaz Solar (550MW).
Energy Perspectives
Sept. 23, 2011 - eia.gov

The United States was self-sufficient in energy until the late 1950's when energy consumptioin began to outpace domestic production. At that point, the Nation began to import more energy to meet its needs. In 2009, net imported energy accounted for 24 percent of all energy consumed.
Probe: Radioactive Tritium Leaks Found at Many Nuke Sites
Sept. 20, 2011 - moneynews.com

Radioactive tritium has leaked from three-quarters of U.S. commercial nuclear power sites, often into groundwater from corroded, buried piping, an Associated Press investigation shows.
Con Edison Reports 35 Percent Drop in Greenhouse Gas Emissions Over Five Years
Sept. 16, 2011 - coned.com

NEW YORK – Con Edison has lowered its greenhouse gas emissions 35 percent since 2005 and expects its carbon footprint to shrink further as it shifts to greater use of natural gas at its steam-generation plants, according to the company's 2010 Sustainability Report (www.conEd.com/sustainability).
AeroVironment to light up I-5 with EV chargers, add 'Oregon Trail' to the Green Highway
Sept. 16, 2011 - Sean Buckley - engadget.com

Retire your oxen and sell your wagon, the Oregon Trail just went electric. Okay, not the real, historic Oregon Trail, but a respectable 150-mile stretch of Interstate Five. The Oregon Department of Transportation is teaming up with AeroVironment to dot an undisclosed number of 480-volt Level 3 chargers between the California / Oregon state border and the Willamette Valley area as part the West Coast Green Highway initiative. The project aims to cover the entire I-5 corridor with electric vehicle chargers, spanning from the tip toe of the Golden State, all the way up to Washington's hat. Oregon's leg of the project should be ready for drivers this fall, making roadtrips to the Beaver State accessible to EV owners -- dysentery free. Hit the break for dry, but factual press release.
Solarbuzz report sees US PV market doubling in 2011 due to lower module prices, incentives
Sep 8, 2011 - Syanne Olson - pv-tech.org

According to Solarbuzz's new "United States PV Market Report", the country's PV market is set to double in the second half of 2011. While other industries fight to control their economic woes, incentives and policies at the federal, state and local government level have bolstered the US PV market over the past year leading Solarbuzz to predict that the country will become the third-largest solar PV market, behind Germany and Italy, in 2011.
US government invests US$27 million to help eliminate solar installation red tape
Sept. 07, 2011 - Chris Whitmore - pvtech.org

As part of its SunShot Initiative, the US government is allocating more than US$27 million in funding to bring down the non-hardware installation costs of solar energy projects. Up to US$12.5 million of this will be assigned to the Rooftop Solar Challenge, which will help eliminate the administrative barriers for small-scale systems, while the remaining US$15 million is being used to streamline the installation process for local governments.
N.J. and France Ban Fracking While N.Y. Is About to Lift Fracking Moratorium
Aug 9, 2011 - powermag.com

Last week, New Jersey's Legislature passed legislation that affirmed the state's involvement in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) and banned the natural gas drilling technique known as hydraulic fracturing, or fracking. Neighboring New York, meanwhile, is poised to lift a moratorium on new shale gas drilling, and France has become the first country to ban fracking.
Average U.S. temperature increases by 0.5 degrees F
Aug 4, 2011 - noaa.gov

According to the 1981-2010 normals to be released by NOAA’s National Climatic Data Center (NCDC) on July 1, temperatures across the United States were on average, approximately 0.5 degree F warmer than the 1971-2000 time period.
Maui selected for smart-grid demonstration
June 5, 2011 - mauinews.com

WAILUKU - Maui has been selected as the site for a "smart grid" renewable energy demonstration project, with an investment of approximately $37 million from the Japan-based New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization, Hawaiian Electric Co. announced Wednesday afternoon.
How Will the California System Operator Cope With 33% Renewables?
June 5, 2011 - greentechmedia.com

To meet California’s new standard requiring the state to get 33 percent of its power from renewables by 2020, the grid operator will have to stop talking about the weather and do something about it. The California Independent System Operator Corporation (ISO) just brought its Mission Critical Wing, a new high tech control center, on line to do that.
New Jersey An Unlikely Leader In Solar Energy
June 5, 2011 - Ronda Kaysen - planetark.org

New Jersey, home to more industrial waste clean-up sites than any other state, is poised to become an exemplar of solar power usage -- though not everyone is happy about it.
No big shifts to nation's energy supply by 2035, report says
Ariel Schwartz - environmentalleader.com

The current energy landscape is rife with contradictions: Gas prices are shooting up, renewables are being implemented at a seemingly rapid pace, natural gas is being simultaneously demonized and hailed as an energy savior, and electric cars are finally starting to roll off production lines. Fortunately, your tax dollars fund a government agency devoted to making sense of energy.
Fed Carbon Footprint: 121.3 Million Metric Tons; Lion’s Share is DOD
May 21, 2011 - environmentalleader.com

The federal government’s 2010 “reducible” emissions totaled 66.4 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions, according to The White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ), which is a reduction of GHG pollution by 2.5 million metric tons of carbon dioxide from its 2008 baseline.
Culver: Iowa a model for renewable energy policy
May 14, 2011 - McClatchy-Tribune Regional News - Adam B. Sullivan - energycentral.com

Former Gov. Chet Culver says other states should look to Iowa's wind energy success as a model for building renewable energy industries.
Government approves $1.24 billion carbon capture project
May 14, 2011 - Canada NewsWire - energycentral.com

The Government of Saskatchewan has approved construction of the Boundary Dam Integrated Carbon Capture and Storage Demonstration Project - among the first commercial-scale carbon capture and storage facilities in the world.
Army Going Net Zero on Environmental Impact
May 14, 2011 - sustainablebusiness.com

This week, the US Army announced that six bases will go "net zero" energy by producing all the energy they consume on site.
Alstom Gets Contract for High Voltage DC at Tres Amigas
May 14, 2011 - Michael Kanellos - greentechmedia.com

Alstom Grid has won the contract, worth at least 150 million Euros, to deliver the High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) converter to the Tres Amigas Superstation.
If You Like Solar, Tell Your Utility To Publish This Map
May 11, 2011 - renewableenergyworld.com

Distributed generation (like solar) brings unique and valuable benefits ($$$) to the electric grid. But capturing those benefits means solar and other renewable energy developers must find the best places to plug in to the grid, e.g. where demand is high or infrastructure is stressed. The cost to connect distributed generation may also be lower in these areas. Unfortunately, data about a utility's grid system is rarely public.
American U. to use sun for power, hot water
May 11, 2011 - energycentral.com

American University says it is installing Washington's largest solar power system
California is expanding its carbon-trading program to three Canadian provinces
May 08, 2011 - energycentral.com

California officials announced Tuesday that the state will expand its newly adopted carbon-trading program to three Canadian provinces, creating the largest regional cap-and-trade system in North America.
California’s Governor Brown signs alternative energy bill
May 08, 2011 - Syanne Olson - pv-tech.org

During SunPower and Flextronics dedication ceremony for its new 75MW module manufacturing plant, attendee Governor Edmund “Jerry” Brown signed a new energy bill into law mandating that one-third of California’s electricity must come from renewable resources, such as solar and wind, by 2020. Before the new legislation was signed into action, California had a 20% renewables portfolio standard set for 2010; the 13% increase gives California until December 31, 2020 to meet the new goal 33% standard.
Renewable energy investment in Oregon surpasses $5.4B
Apr 20, 2011 - sustainablebusinessoregon.com

More than $5.4 billion has been invested in renewable energy in Oregon, most of which has come within the last four years, according to new data released Thursday by the Renewable Northwest Project.
Ontario Power Authority awards FiT contracts to 35 large-scale PV projects
Mar 06, 2011 - PV-Tech.com

Solar power’s future in Ontario looks bright after the province awarded feed-in tariff (FiT) contracts to 35 new large-scale projects. The projects make up 257MW of the 872MW in FiT contracts that were handed out by the Ontario Power Authority (OPA) to renewable initiatives.
Wind power generated 47% of the renewable power, small hydro-electric 20%, geothermal 22%, solar 1%
Mar 06, 2011 - energycentral.com

Achieving a major clean-air goal ahead of state targets, the DWP generated 20 percent of its power in 2010 through wind, water, solar and geothermal systems, city officials announced Thursday.
Nationalizing the Grid
Mar 06, 2011 - Phillip G. Harris and Jack McCall - Mechanical Engineering Magazine

The U.S. is blessed with abundant renewable energy, from wind in west Texas to sunlight in the western deserts. And the nation is rapidly putting that clean energy to work. Although most forecasts project annual load growth of only 1 percent for the foreseeable future, renewable power’s share of net generation is projected to double by 2035.
Record solar installations reached in U.S., says SEIA/GTM Research quarterly report
Mar 02, 2011 - Mark Osborne - pv-tech.org

A market that always promised but failed to deliver is over, according to the latest U.S. Solar Market Insight report from GTM Research and the SEIA. PV installations in the third quarter reached 530MW, topping the total amount of installations reported in the whole of 2009 which stood at 435MW. According to the report PV installations are poised to reach 855MW in 2010, an increase of over 100%. The report noted that the growth trend is set to continue in 2011.
ISO Study Affirms the Grid Can Reliably Integrate a 20% RPS
Oct 18, 2010 - BUSINESS WIRE

Maintaining a diverse fleet of power plants in California and taking advantage of the complementary nature of wind and solar power are two of the findings in a renewables portfolio standard (RPS) integration study recently released by the California Independent System Operator Corporation (ISO).
Walmart Expands Solar Program
Oct. 12, 2010 - Solar Buzz
The US Military's Two-pronged Renewable Energy Initiative
Oct. 12, 2010 - Robert Crowe - Renewable Energy World

The US military is one of the biggest supporters of renewable energy in the country.
California wants 1 million electric vehicles on roads by 2020
Oct. 12, 2010 - David Shepardson - Detroit News

California wants 1 million battery electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles on the Golden State's roadways in a decade.
Concerns Spread over Environmental Costs of Producing Shale Gas
Jul 14, 2010 - Joel Kirkland - scientificamerican.com

The extent to which utilities will burn natural gas to slash carbon dioxide emissions tied to global warming is a national issue. But on the ground, where it's being produced, the issues become very local
New Report: U.S. Electric Utilities Must Embrace Clean Energy, Energy Efficiency to Compete in 21st Century
Jul 12, 2010 - Business Wire

The most successful utilities in the 21st Century will be very different from those of the 20th Century.
New ‘Compendium of Best U.S. Practices’ in Energy Efficiency,
Renewable Energy Aims to Drive Deployment Worldwide
May 20, 2010 - ACORE

hree leading energy efficiency and renewable energy organizations – the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Partnership (REEEP, an international body), the Alliance to Save Energy (Alliance) and the American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) – have jointly released their Compendium of Best Practices: Sharing Local and State Successes in Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy from the United States, in which state and local governments share the key elements of their programs, lessons learned and what made each program a success.
China, U.S. seek deeper clean energy cooperation
May 20, 2010 - Xinhua

China and the United States Thursday pledged to deepen clean energy cooperation as U.S. commerce chief led a large green power delegation to Beijing.
Nova Scotia says it's setting most aggressive renewable power targets in Canada
May 3, 2010 - Michael MacDonald - The Associated Press

It may be Canada's second-smallest province, but Nova Scotia is planning to become a green giant when it comes to renewable energy.
First U.S. Offshore Wind Project Finally Gets Green Light
Mai 3, 2010 - POWERnews - powermag.com

The Department of the Interior (DOI) today gave its approval to the first U.S. offshore wind farm, a long-disputed and much-delayed project on federal submerged lands in Nantucket Sound.
SEIA releases 2009 US Solar Industry Year in Review report
Apr 26, 2010 - Syanne Olson - pv-tech.org

After what was a trying year in economies all over the world, the Solar Energy Industries Association has released its 2009 US Solar Industry Year in Review report finding that the US solar industry posted strong numbers and showed significant growth. Overall, the United States ranked 4th in new solar electric capacity worldwide with industry growth totaling nearly $4 billion – a 36% improvement.
Nova Scotia To Launch Community-Based Feed-in Tariffs
Apr 26, 2010 - Paul Gipe

As part of Nova Scotia's Renewable Electricity Plan announced today, the province in Eastern Canada will implement a series of feed-in tariffs for locally-owned projects.
Online Vt. atlas aims to promote renewable energy
Apr 22, 2010 - Dave Gram - AP

Anyone wanting to know where in Vermont the likely spots are for wind-power generators or good sources for biodiesel fuel has a powerful new tool to use.
In clean energy, U.S. innovates but builds slowly
Mar 31, 2010 - windowseventoday.com

If you follow the money, the numbers show that the U.S. is being outpaced by China and other countries in a global race to develop green-technology industries.
Designate renewable energy zones across US, suggests think-tank
Mar 30, 2010 - The Milken Institute - renewableenergyfocus.com

A US think tank says creating ‘competitive renewable energy zones’ would be a solution to raise the private investment that is needed to update transmission infrastructure, increase capacity for renewable energy and move toward the ‘smart grid.’
Edison International Unit Signs 175 MW Of Renewable-Energy Contracts
Mar 29, 2010 - Cassandra Sweet - Dow Jones

Edison International's (EIX) Southern California utility asked state regulators Monday for permission to execute contracts for 175 megawatts of renewable energy from 13 different facilities.
US House Energy Panel Approves Electricity Grid Security Bill
Mar 24, 2010 - Ian Talley - Dow Jones

A U.S. House of Representatives energy committee Wednesday approved a bill giving federal regulators greater authority to protect the nation's electricity infrastructure from attacks through the Internet.
Offshore Awakening: US Investment Flows to Offshore Wind
Mar 22, 2010 - Elisa Wood - renewableenergyworld.com

The US is starting to look beyond the initial cost of offshore wind energy and consider its huge long-term benefits.
Rejecting renewables: The socio-technical impediments to renewable electricity in the United States
Mar 18, 2010 - Benjamin K.Sovacool - sciencedirect.com

Energy Governance Program, Centre on Asia and Globalisation, Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, National University of Singapore
California Public Utilities Commission Decision Allows Tradable Renewable Energy Credits
Mar 17, 2010 - Stoel Rives

The decision had been a long time in coming. The legislature had authorized the CPUC to allow the use of TRECS in 2006. On October 29, 2008, the CPUC issued its first proposed decision authorizing the use of TRECs.
Underwater Cable an Alternative to Electrical Towers
Mar 16, 2010 - Matthew L. Wald - New York Times

Generating 20 percent of America’s electricity with wind, as recent studies proposed, would require building up to 22,000 miles of new high-voltage transmission lines. But the huge towers and unsightly tree-cutting that these projects require have provoked intense public opposition.
New Wind Power Maps
Mar 12, 2010 - windpowermaps.org

Northwest Sustainable Energy for Economic Development (NWSEED) launched the Northwest Wind Mapping Project in mid 2001 in partnership with the Last Mile Electric Cooperative, a group of rural public utilities working to develop cost-based wind generation.
Manitoba, Saskatchewan governments commit to building bigger power grid
Mar 9, 2010 - The Associated Press

The Manitoba and Saskatchewan governments have agreed to more than double the capacity of the power grid that connects the two provinces.
Solar Industry Will Grow to $77 Billion in 2015
Mar 9, 2010 - luxresearchinc.com - The Associated Press

Reeling from a stormy 2009, the solar market will soon see lopsided supply and demand rush back into parity, according to a new report from Lux Research.
Global Climate Battle Plays Out In World Bank
Mar 8, 2010 - Lesley Wroughton - Reuters

The United States and Britain are threatening to withhold support for a $3.75 billion World Bank loan for a coal-fired plant in South Africa, expanding the battleground in the global debate over who should pay for clean energy.
'Renewable Energy Achievable in Ten Years'
Mar 1, 2010 - All Africa Global Media - Vanguard

The Managing Director of Nigerian Export Import Bank (NEXIM Bank), Mr. Roberts Orya, has stressed the need for Nigeria to focus on the green economy and renewable energy in its bid to join global forces to save a world that is threatened by climate change and global warming.
Will Politics Slow the Wind?
Mar 8, 2010 - Peter Behr - Climatewire - scientificamerican.com

Not many years ago, there wasn't enough wind power coming from the Great Plains to worry about. Now there is, and lots of people are worrying.
Groundbreaking Study Finds
Mar 4, 2010 - John Blackburn, Ph.D. - ieer.org

Solar and wind power can supply the vast majority of North Carolina's electricity needs, according to a major report released today.
Project Focus: U.S. Navy to award $200M in contracts to build 40MW of solar PV power plants
Mar 4, 2010 - Tom Cheyney - PV-tech.org

The U.S. Navy's Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) has awarded a $200 million contract to build up as much as 40MW of solar photovoltaic power plants at Navy and Marine Corps installations throughout the southwestern United States.
Hydropower in the United States has potential to quadruple capacity
Mar 3, 2010 - Lisa Frantzis - hydroworld.com

Hydropower's total capacity has potential to reach four times its current amount in the United States, with job creation expanding exponentially as well, research from Navigant Consulting Inc. suggests.
Berkeley Lab Releases New Analysis of the Potential Renewable Energy Supply
Feb 25, 2010 - Energy Central

Berkeley Lab and Black & Veatch developed a new analytical tool to compare the economics of renewable resource areas for different load areas in the Western Interconnection and how different policies and uncertainties may affect resource selection and transmission expansion.
NREL says Global Solar first to exceed 13% efficiencies for CIGS on flex stainless-steel substrate
Feb 25, 2010 - Tom Cheyney - pv-tech.org

In the latest example of increasing CIGS conversion efficiencies, the Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory has confirmed that Global Solar Energy has achieved 13.2% aperture-area efficiency on a thin-film photovoltaic module integrated with flexible cell-strings from its copper-indium-gallium-(di)selenide production line in Tucson, AZ.
Report: Contamination from coal ash waste is worse than EPA says
Feb 24, 2010 - Mark Clayton - The Christian Science Monitor

Coal ash waste contamination nationwide is far worse than indicated by a new Environmental Protection Agency tally, with dozens more ash-waste ponds and landfills also leaching toxins into streams and drinking water, a new study finds.
US utilities see future for solar and wind
Feb 23, 2010 - Renewable Energy Focus

Wind energy projects are underway or planned by 79% of utilities in the USA within the next five years, while solar energy is planned by 73% within that time horizon.
New Wind Potential Estimates for the US Based on AWS Truewind's windNavigator System
Feb 23, 2010 - North America Clean Energy

Albany-based AWS Truewind, LLC has announced the release of new wind potential estimates for the lower 48 states based on windNavigator, the firm's proprietary, high-resolution wind resource dataset. The estimates were produced in collaboration with the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) under the auspices of the US Department of Energy (DOE). They mark the first comprehensive state-level assessment of the onshore wind resource potential since 1993.
Wind energy potential upgraded in Dakotas
Feb 23, 2010 - AP

The American Wind Energy Association says there is more wind energy potential in the Dakotas than previously estimated.
Potential for US wind energy is 10.5 GW
Feb 19, 2010 - Renewable Energy Focus.com

Wind turbines on the continental USA could generate 37 PWh a year, according to a new study by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL).
Advocates envision Texas as solar power leader
Feb 22, 2010 - Randy Lee Loftis - The Dallas Morning News

The sun could rival the wind as a clean power source in Texas' near future, if the state gets serious about tapping the potential of pollution-free solar energy.
Tide effects; final demonstration of a turbine
Feb 22, 2010 - Tux Turkel - Portland Press Herald

Close by the Canadian border, this stretch of Down East Maine is known worldwide for its high tides and strong ocean currents. Peak tides rush in and out of Cobscook Bay at 7 miles per hour. From a boat, it's easy to appreciate the force of the water as it piles up against a large, white buoy moored off Shackford Head.
Study: Iowa wind energy potential four times previous estimate
Feb 22, 2010 - Dave DeWitte The Gazette, Cedar Rapids, Iowa - McClatchy-Tribune Regional News

Iowa could produce four times the wind energy previously thought because of improvements in wind turbine technology and more refined wind measures, a new study says.
State may shut down five coal-fired power plants
Feb 20, 2010 - Dee J. Hall - The Wisconsin State Journal

The state will install more pollution controls, eliminate coal use or possibly shut down five coal-fired heating plants, the Wisconsin Department of Administration announced Friday.
New Wind Resource Maps and Wind Potential Estimates for the United States
Feb 19, 2010 - U.S.Department of Energy

Accurate information about the wind resource and the wind energy potential in each state is required for federal and state policy initiatives that will expand the use of wind energy in the United States.
Keeping the Lights On While Transforming Electric Utilities
Feb 19, 2010 - Lena Hansen & Amory B. Lovins - Rocky Mountain Institute

Electric utilities operate now much as they did a century ago—but the environment in which they operate is changing dramatically.
Large solar PV to dominate US market
Feb 18, 2010 - Renewable Energy Focus

“Large-scale commercial solar PV and central-station utility-scale PV will most likely become the dominant growth market” in the United States, according to the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI).
Bonds authorised for renewable energy
Feb 17, 2010 - Renewable Energy Focus

The US government has funded 16 native tribes to issue bonds for renewable energy facilities.
Canada's permafrost retreats amid warming trend
Feb 17, 2010 - Deborah Zabarenko - Reuters

WASHINGTON, Feb 17 (Reuters) - The permanently frozen ground known as permafrost is retreating northward in the area around Canada's James Bay, a sign of a decades-long regional warming trend, a climate scientist said on Wednesday.
Utility use of renewable energy reached new high in 2009
Feb 12, 2010 - Eric Wolff - North County Times,

California's three largest utilities added 5,451 megawatts of renewable power last year, the most green energy added to the state's electric grid since regulators started keeping track in 2002, the California Public Utilities Commission reported Wednesday.
A clean energy gold rush
Feb 11, 2010 - McClatchy/Tribune

Of the 10 largest wind power companies in the world, the United States has one - General Electric. Of the world's 10 largest solar companies, we have two - First Solar and SunPower - but almost all their manufacturing is in Asia. Hydropower and geothermal companies are also located in the Far East.
Utility turns cow poop into gas
Feb 11, 2010 - Jennifer Anderson - Pamplin Media Group

With so much talk about driving less, electric cars and alternative fuels, you’d think transportation was the No. 1 producer of the world’s harmful greenhouse gases.
Agricultural Scientists Sequence Genome of Grass That Can Be a Biofuel Model Crop
Feb 10, 2010 - ScienceDaily.com

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) scientists and their colleagues at the Department of Energy (DOE) Joint Genome Institute have announced that they have completed sequencing the genome of a kind of wild grass that will enable researchers to shed light on the genetics behind hardier varieties of wheat and improved varieties of biofuel crops.
2010 Ooutlook For Renewable Energy
Feb 9, 2010 - AWEA

Today, top executives in the renewable energy sector gathered to applaud 2009’s strong renewable energy development but emphasized the need for Congress to swiftly enact key policies to continue accelerated growth across the entire sector in order to add jobs and boost economic growth in 2010.
Business coalition pushes solar energy in Texas
Feb 9, 2010 - McClatchy-Tribune Regional News - Bill Teeter Waco Tribune-Herald, Texas

A business organization is pressing for the state government to expand its solar power goals to make Texas a national leader in solar energy.
Study boosts notion of offshore wind production
Feb 9, 2010 - McClatchy-Tribune Regional News - Timothy B. Wheeler The Baltimore Sun

Offshore wind energy can furnish Marylanders with as much as two-thirds of the electricity they currently use, and if aggressively developed, could turn the state into a net exporter of power, a new report by the Abell Foundation says.
In Utah, company aims to store energy in air
Feb 7, 2010 - Paul Foy - Associated Press

A Utah company plans to dig a series of underground caverns that it hopes to one day fill with compressed air, releasing it to generate electricity by turning a turbine and solving one of the most vexing problems facing the clean-energy industry - how to store power.
Ocean Power Technologies installs wave energy device in Hawaii
Feb 4, 2010 - Renewable Energy Focus.com

Ocean Power Technologies Inc has deployed one of its PowerBuoys wave energy devices at the Marine Corps Base in Hawaii USA.
Americans support strong climate, energy policies
Feb 4, 2010 - Tara Laskowski - George Mason University - eurekalert.org

Despite a sharp drop in public concern over global warming, Americans—regardless of political affiliation—support the passage of federal climate and energy policies, according to the results of a national survey released today by researchers at Yale and George Mason universities.
3TIER Releases New Wind Performance Maps
Feb 4, 2010 - nawindpower.com

3TIER has released maps that plot how average wind speeds in the U.S. differed from their long-term averages in 2009 and that illustrate the impact of El Nino, which contributed to a decrease in wind power production in several important wind power regions.
Renewable energy jobs and the future
Feb 4, 2010 - Julie Schmit - USA Today

The number of clean-energy jobs in the U.S. would more than double by 2025 if the nation adopts a plan to get 25% of its electricity from renewable energy sources, says a report backed by energy firms.
US Navy to halve fossil fuels by 2020
Feb 2, 2010 - Carbon Positive

The US Navy is to halve its use of fossil fuels by 2020 among a number of clean energy measures across the armed forces flagged in a major defence review paper released this week. On the way to the 2020 target, the Navy plans to deploy a “green” strike group by 2016 which will operate entirely without fossil fuels. It has already commissioned an electric-drive aircraft carrier, the USS Makin Island, and last year tested an F/A-18 fighter aircraft on a camelina-based biofuel blend.
Obama Budget Increases Funding for Energy Research and Nuclear Power
Feb 2, 2010 - Scientific American

Nuclear energy and energy research are among the big winners in the proposed $28.4 billion Energy Department fiscal 2011 budget the White House unveiled today.
Obama Sets GHG Target
Feb 1, 2010 - Renew Grid

The federal government plans to reduce its greenhouse gas (GHG) pollution by 28% by 2020, President Obama has announced. Actions taken under Executive Order 13514 on Federal Sustainability are designed to spur clean energy investments that create new private-sector jobs, drive long-term savings, build local market capacity, and foster innovation and entrepreneurship in clean energy industries, according to the White House.
Leaks imperil nuclear industry
Jan 31, 2010 - Beth Daley - boston.com

The nuclear industry, once an environmental pariah, is recasting itself as green as it attempts to extend the life of many power plants and build new ones. But a leak of radioactive water at Vermont Yankee, along with similar incidents at more than 20 other US nuclear plants in recent years, has kindled doubts about the reliability, durability, and maintenance of the nation’s aging nuclear installations.
Intel outside: Chipmaker moves to install more PV power systems, equipped with First Solar modules
Jan 29, 2010 - Tom Cheyney - PV-tech.org

Intel likes to talk the green talk and walk it too with ever-smaller carbon footprints, buying copious amounts of renewable energy credits, investing millions of dollars in cleantech startups through its development fund, spinning off solar cell start-up Spectrawatt, and researching organic photovoltaics in its labs.
Solar energy initiative aired
Jan 29, 2010 - McClatchy-Tribune Regional News - Aaron Besecker The Buffalo News, N.Y.

All kinds of public buildings under the sun, from schools to libraries to city halls, will be targeted as installation sites under a new state initiative to develop solar energy.
Project Focus: GA-Solar to build 300MW solar PV power plant in New Mexico
Jan 28, 2010 - Tom Cheyney - PV-tech.org

Spanish renewable energy firm GA-Solar will develop and build a massive solar photovoltaic power plant in New Mexico's rural Guadalupe County, according to an announcement made by Gov. Bill Richardson. The project, to be sited on 2500 acres of land, could be scaled to more than 300MW and represents an investment of $1 billion by the solar company and its parent, Corporación Gestamp.
Juan de Fuca Cable - Project Status Review - US Loan Guarantee Application
Jan 27, 2010 - PR Newswire

The Juan de Fuca Cable is a proposed 550 MW submarine interconnection across the international Strait of Juan de Fuca, between Port Angeles, Washington, and Victoria, British Columbia, providing a new link between the northwest terminus of US federally- owned Bonneville Power Administration's grid, and the southwest terminus of the provincially-owned system in British Columbia, Canada.
Geothermal Power: 6,442MW Under Development in 14 States
Jan 27, 2010 - SustainableBusiness.com News

The United States continues to lead the world in geothermal energy capacity and growth, the Geothermal Energy Association (GEA) said this week in a report that details gains and milestones over the past year.
NREL Study Shows 20% Wind is Possible by 2024
Jan 27, 2010 - EERE News

As much as 20% of the power connected to the grid could come from wind by 2024, according to a new study by DOE's National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL).
US wind energy industry installs 10 GW in 2009
Jan 26, 2010 - Renewable Energy Focus

The wind industry in the United States has broken all previous records by installing 10 GW of new capacity last year.
US electricity from wind energy exceeds share from petroleum or biomass
Jan 26, 2010 - Renewable Energy Focus

Wind energy generated 55.4 TWh of electricity in 2008, an increase of 60.7% from the 34.5 TWh in 2007, according to federal data.
California ISO Wind Forecasting Improves by 20 Percent
Jan 26, 2010 -- BUSINESS WIRE

The California Independent System Operator Corporation (California ISO) reports a 20 percent improvement in forecasting wind generation based on the results of a year-long forecasting competition. The improvement represents a significant advancement in the ability of the power grid to integrate fluctuating wind power. The ISO is making its findings public in a study recently posted to its website. http://www.caiso.com/2726/2726d0e26480.pdf
Southern Company and Ted Turner Join Forces to Explore Renewable Energy Projects
Jan 26, 2010 - PRNewswire

Southern Company CEO David Ratcliffe and visionary business leader and environmentalist Ted Turner today announced a strategic alliance to pursue development of renewable energy projects in the United States.
US Continues Breaking Records, Installs 9922 MW of Wind in 2009
Jan 26, 2010 - Graham Jesmer - Renewable Energy World.Com

In early 2009, the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) and industry experts predicted that the year would see a drop in the amount of wind capacity installed in the United States. The continuing recession, lack of tax credit financing and a reduction in demand for energy were expected to cause a drop in installations by as much as 50% from 2008 levels. However, yesterday after the numbers were tallied, it turned out to be another record breaking year for the U.S. wind energy industry with nearly 10,000 megawatts (MW) put in the ground.
Duke Energy to start first solar power plant; buys juwi/First Solar ‘Blue Wing Solar’ project
Jan 25, 2010 - Mark Osborne - PV-tech.org

A 16MW solar power plant under development by juwi solar, using 214,500 ground-mounted cadmium-telluride thin-film PV panels from First Solar, has been acquired by Duke Energy.
Tessera Solar and Stirling Energy Systems Unveil World's First Commercial-Scale SunCatcherTM Plant, Maricopa Solar, with Utility Partner Salt River Project
Jan 22, 2010 - Energy Central

Only four months after breaking ground, Tessera Solar and Stirling Energy Systems (SES) showcased the highly anticipated Maricopa Solar power plant today at a special event for key partners, stakeholders and media. Maricopa Solar is the first commercial project for the SunCatcherTM concentrating solar power (CSP) technology designed and manufactured by SES. Joining in the celebration were Arizona Governor Jan Brewer and officials from Salt River Project (SRP), local and state government, the U.S. Department of Energy, Sandia National Laboratories, utility customers, suppliers and NTR plc, Tessera Solar and SES’s majority shareholder.
Solar-driven Stirling engines get to work
Jan 22, 2010 - Martin LaMonica - CNET

Business and government officials on Friday cut the ribbon on a planned factory in Arizona that will build giant parabolic dishes to generate electricity from the sun.
Eleven Governors Commit to a Regional Low-Carbon Fuel Standard
Jan 20, 2010 - EERE News

Governors of 11 Northeast and Mid-Atlantic states signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on December 30 that commits their states to developing a regional low-carbon fuel standard, a market-based, fuel-neutral program addressing the carbon content of fuels.
Report: Appalachian states should look beyond coal
Jan 19, 2010 - Vicki Smith - Associated Press

Coal production in Central Appalachia is likely to continue its 12-year decline, and an environmental consulting firm said Tuesday it's time policy makers and legislators in four states work to diversify the region's economy.
Smart Electricity Grid Reaches Texas
Jan 19, 2010 - intelligent utility

The benefits of the smart electricity grid - including detailed information about electricity use and lower rates when demand drops -- are now available to Texas electricity customers with advanced "smart" meters. Reliant Energy is offering two new smart energy services that give customers the tools and information they need to manage their energy usage better - the Reliant Energy Weekly Summary email and Time-Of-Use plan.
No wires, no juice
Jan 19, 2010 - Bill Opalka - renewablesbiz

After nearly two years of speeches, announcements and attention from all parts of the energy and other media, oilman and wind power booster T. Boone Pickens last week shelved his plans for a massive wind-power project in Texas when he cut his order for GE turbines in half, from 667 units to 333. So I asked a transmission group what it would take to get projects like Pickens and others moving again. After all, large, sometimes multi-state transmission projects are what's needed to deliver energy from massive wind farms to load centers. Naturally, we focused on a discussion of pending federal energy legislation and regulations, which will also be considered at the EnergyBiz Leadership Forum.
21-Megawatt Solar Power Plant Opens in California
Jan 18, 2010 - Ethan A. Huff - Natual News

California-based solar panel producer First Solar has opened a 21-megawatt power plant in Blythe, making it the largest photovoltaic solar power plant in the country. Utilizing thin film solar cells made out of cadmium telluride, the plant will be able to generate power for about 17,000 southern California homes.
Wind turbines don't operate in cold
Jan 15, 2010 - Beth Wischmeyer - McClatchy-Tribune Regional News

Though wind turbines utilize North Dakota's plentiful gusts to generate energy, some agency officials say they are shut down in times of extreme temperature.
When Will Renewable Energy Companies Overtake Traditional Energy Companies?
Jan 8, 2010 - Jennifer Kho - Renewable Energy World.com

Renewable energy has got buzz, growth and growing government support. But it's no secret that it still makes up a small portion of the overall energy mix. As interest in renewables increases, the question has begun coming up more and more often: When will renewable energy companies catch up to conventional energy companies? That is, when will we see an Exxon Mobil Corp., Chevron Corp. or ConocoPhilips of renewables?
Solar pond could produce fresh water
Jan 06, 2010 - United Press International

Salty lakes worldwide could produce valuable freshwater using a low-cost solar process developed at the
University of Nevada, researchers said.
California processing 244 proposals for renewable energy facilities
Jan 04, 2010 - renewableenergyfocus.com

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger says the projects represent 70,000 MW of capacity that will help the state meet its 2020 goal of one-third of power from renewables.
Minnesota Power Reaches Milestone in Renewable Energy Efforts with Purchase of Interstate Transmission Line
Jan 4, 2010 - Business Wire

Minnesota Power, an ALLETE company (NYSE: ALE), has finalized the purchase of a 465-mile transmission line, signaling a new era of renewable energy transport and development for the Company.
Wind farms could create thousands of new Neb. jobs
Jan 3, 2010 - Nate Jenkins - Associated Press

Harnessing Nebraska's largely untapped wind-energy resources could create up to 40,000 jobs over the next two decades if a federal goal is met, according to a report.
SunEdison to build, run five 10MW solar power plants for Xcel unit in New Mexico
Dec 30, 2009 - Tom Cheyney - pv-tech.org

SunEdison will design and construct five ground-mounted solar photovoltaic power plants that will generate a total of 50MW (AC) in New Mexico for Southwestern Public Service, a regional operating company of Xcel Energy. The five 10MW sites will be located in Lea and Eddy counties in the southeastern part of the state and will be fully operational by the end of 2011, the companies said.
Renewable Energy Rises to Over 10% of U.S. Energy Production & Electricity
Dec 28, 2009 - Energy Central

According to the most recent issue of the "Monthly Energy Review" by the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), renewable energy sources (i.e., biofuels, biomass, geothermal, hydroelectric, solar, wind) provided 10.51% of domestic U.S. energy production during the first nine months of 2009 – the latest time-frame for which data has been published.
An Electric 'Game Changer' Gets FERC Scrutiny
Dec 23, 2009 - Peter Behr - Climat Wire - NY Times

A proposal to move large amounts of wind and solar power out of the Southwest by linking the three separate North American electricity grids with state-of-the-art switching terminals and superconducting cables is now in hands of federal regulators.
Project captures carbon dioxide at FirstEnergy site
Dec 22, 2009 - Bob Downing - McClatchy-Tribune Regional News

Testing at a FirstEnergy Corp. coal-burning power plant in eastern Ohio shows that carbon dioxide can successfully be captured, a New Hampshire-based company announced today.
Energy-thrifty White House turns deeper shade of green
Dec 18, 2009 - Mimi Hall, - USA Today

WASHINGTON — The White House complex and the federal government are going green — and not just with Christmas trees and holly.
Regulators Approve Key Contract for New 48-Megawatt Sempra Generation Solar Power Plant
Dec 17, 2009 - MARKETWIRE - Energy Central

Sempra Generation announced today that the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has approved Pacific Gas & Electric's (PG&E) contract to purchase 48 megawatts (MW) of photovoltaic solar power from Sempra Generation's Copper Mountain Solar facility.
State Energy Plan Promotes Clean, Efficient Alternatives
Dec 15, 2009 - Mireya Navarro - New York Times

A New York State board has recommended a plan intended to make energy more affordable, efficient and environmentally friendly while helping to create jobs over the next 10 years, officials said.
Smallest State Could Big Impact on US Offshore Wind
Dec 11, 2009 - Renewableenergyworld.com

Rhode Island Governor Donald Carcieri said that even though his state might be the smallest in the union, it expects to have a big impact on in the U.S. offshore wind market. The state may be home to the first commercial project off Block Island.
Ellensburg residents invest in solar power park
Dec 11, 2009 - Leah Beth Ward - The Associated Press

Gary Nystedt was brainstorming with a group of colleagues at a solar energy conference a few years ago when the idea hit him.
Boise is one of the world's leading geothermal cities
Dec 10, 2009 - McClatchy-Tribune Regional News - Cynthia Sewell The Idaho Statesma

This week world leaders gathering in Copenhagen for the United Nations Climate Change Conference are feeling the geothermal heat that is part of the energy solution for Copenhagen and for cities and countries around the world. In fact, Copenhagen could meet 50 percent of its district heating needs by using its geothermal resources.
GE's New Solar Inverter Tackles Challenges of Integrating to Today's Grid
Dec 09, 2009 - GE Energy - energycentral.com

Technology used in GE’s (NYSE:GE) wind turbines, known for proven performance and reliability, is now bringing similar benefits to large-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. Building on a platform of power electronics, monitoring and controls that enhance wind energy grid integration, GE has developed a 600 kW solar inverter, which includes grid-friendly features to deliver performance in large-scale solar installations similar to conventional power plants.
US Solar Spins a 360
Dec 8, 2009 - Elisa Wood - Renewable Energy World.COM

The solar industry is finally feeling optimistic again, having apparently achieved a full 360 degree turn over the past 12 months, but what will 2010 hold?
Solar pipeline at U.S. utilities reaches 4.8GW: EER reports 21.5GW of solar power generation in 2020
Dec 4, 2009 - Mark Osborne - PV-tech.org

A new detailed study of the U.S. utility market for solar applications by market research firm, Emerging Energy Research (EER) highlights the current and future pipeline of PV installations expected from the U.S. utilities. The utility-scale PV project pipeline has already reached 4.8GW with utilities expected to add a further 21.5GW to their generation portfolios between 2009 and 2020. Compared to the 77 MW of utility-driven projects currently operating, an explosion in the market is rapidly gaining momentum.
EPA Set to Regulate Wastewater from Coal-Fired Power Plants
Dec 4, 2009 - Sarah Coefield - Enviromental Health News - Scientific American

Next to a national wildlife refuge, Indiana’s Gibson Lake provides a prime fishery for bass and an attractive rest spot for hundreds of species of birds, including endangered least terns.
Pentagon's 25M Acres Could Ease Renewables Siting Debate
Dec 3, 2009 - Scott Streater - NY Times

While not central to its war-fighting mission abroad, the U.S. military is quietly becoming one of the nation's most aggressive energy innovators, retrofitting thousands of acres of military installations with renewables technologies that will help meet the bases' future power demand while also aiding host states in achieving renewable energy targets.
PG&E Agrees to Purchase and Operate Major California Wind Energy Project
Dec 3, 2009 - EnergyCentral

Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) today announced that it has contracted with Iberdrola Renewables, Inc., the U.S. arm of the world's largest provider of wind power, to purchase and operate a major wind generating plant to be built in Southern California to serve the utility's electric customers.
HelioSphera to build $500 million, 160MW solar PV module plant in Philadelphia Navy Yard complex
Dec 1, 2009 - Tom Cheyney - PV-tech.org

Greek solar manufacturer HelioSphera will build a new photovoltaics module factory in Philadelphia’s historic Navy Yard mixed-use complex. Work on the 160-MW production plant is scheduled to begin next year.
Southern California Edison's Solar Transmission Line Approved
Nov 30, 2009 - Wall Street Journal

Southern California Edison (SCE) has received approval from the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) for the construction of the 128-mile, 500 kV Devers Palo-Verde No. 2 line, which is designed to deliver solar power to demand centers in Southern California.
Utility to store air underground to generate power
Nov 23, 2009 -The Associated Press - Energy Central

An Ohio electric company has bought the rights to an abandoned limestone mine so it can pump the cavern full of compressed air and let it out to generate power during peak-use times.
Tom Konrad: We need transmission!
Nov 22, 2009 - theenergycollective.com

Be warned: this is a long post. But the underlying issue is important and not well understood–the fact is, the best places to generate wind and solar energy are, unfortunately, far from the population centers where energy is needed.
Suntech to bring manufacturing jobs to Phoenix, Arizona
Nov 16, 2009 - Syanne Olson - PV+Tech Newsletter

Suntech announced at the US China Green Tech Summit that its first US manufacturing facility will be built in the greater Phoenix, Arizona area. The company hopes for the plant to begin production in the third quarter of 2010 with an initial capacity of 30MW. No specific location has been decided upon yet, but the company aims to make its final decision in the coming weeks.
Study: CO2 pollution soars in Ariz.
Nov 13, 2009 - PHOENIX - (The Associated Press)

A new study say carbon-dioxide pollution has increased dramatically in Arizona over the past two decades.
Study: Offshore winds a mega-resource
Nov 10, 2009 - McClatchy-Tribune Regional News - Alex Kuffner and Peter B. Lord The Providence Journal, R.I.

There is more than enough wind off the mid-Atlantic seaboard to power every coastal state from North Carolina to Massachusetts, according to a new study presented in Rhode Island.
Yield Added Generation at Average Costs Less Than 4 cents per kWh - Without New Dams
Nov 04, 2009 - U.S.Deparment of Energy

$30.6 million Recovery Act investment by the Department of Energy highlights the additional potential of hydro power
Solar Flare Ups
Nov 9, 2009 - Ed Humes - California Lawyer

True or false: California's plan to generate massive amounts of clean, sustainable solar power is a win for everyone—liberal or conservative, environmentalist or business executive.
DoE highlights best practices from 25 Solar America Cities
Nov 2, 2009 - renewable energy focus.com

The US Department of Energy (DoE) has announced an online resource for local governments that assists community leaders and local stakeholders in building sustainable local solar markets with best practices from 25 Solar America Cities.
Vancouver Makes a Bright Green Future its Official Goal
Oct 20, 2009 - World Changing

Vancouver just released its new city strategy, titled Vancouver 2020: A Bright Green Future (PDF), and it's a bold step forward (as well as a flattering adoption of our bright green frame)
Chipotle Plans Major Solar Power Initiative
Oct 20, 2009 - Business Wire

Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE: CMG) (NYSE: CMG.B) announced today it is partnering with Houston-based Standard Renewable Energy (SRE) to install solar panels on approximately 75 Chipotle restaurants over the next year. In all, Chipotle has committed to panels that will produce 500 kilowatt hours of electricity, making Chipotle the largest direct producer of solar energy in the restaurant industry.
Second Rooftop in Southern California Edison's Massive Solar Panel Installation Program Now Generating Power in Chino
Oct 20, 2009 - Business Wire

The roof of a 458,000-square-foot industrial building in Chino, Calif. is now providing as much as one million watts of solar power to Southern California's Inland Empire. This is the second installation in Southern California Edison's (SCE's) plan to place advanced solar panels on hundreds of otherwise unused commercial rooftops across Southern California. The Chino site is owned by the Multi-Employer Property Trust (MEPT) whose exclusive investment advisor is Kennedy Associates.
Universities show increased use of renewable energy
Oct 16, 2009 - Renewable Energy Focus

Twenty-six universities and colleges across the United States received a grading of A- for their use of renewable energy on campus.
Alberta's forestry waste becomes a bright light for clean energy
Oct 15, 2009 - M2 Presswire

Scrap treetops and branches from forestry operations in Alberta will soon help power consumers' daily lives with clean energy. The Government of Alberta is providing $25 million to develop a first-of-its-kind waste-to-energy production facility in the Town of Drayton Valley .
Southern Company to Build 100 MW Biomass Plant in Texas
Oct 14, 2009 - Clean Energy News

Southern Power, a subsidiary of Southern Company that acquires, builds, manages and owns wholesale generation assets, recently announced that it is acquiring Nacogdoches Power, LLC from American Renewables, LLC and will move ahead with construction of the planned biomass power plant in Sacul, Texas.
Duke Distributed Generation Solar Sites Revealed
Oct 14, 2009 - Renewable Energy World.com

Four sites have been selected to have solar energy systems installed on their rooftops as part of the first phase of Duke Energy's distributed solar generation program in North Carolina. Duke Energy has selected large nonresidential customer sites for this first phase.
Members Of World Energy Cities Partnership Sign Climate Change Accord
Oct 12, 2009 - North American Windpower

Mayors and representatives of nine international cities have signed an accord that commits to greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction targets for individual municipal operations and wider communities.
Energy Department Announces New Private Sector Partnership to Accelerate Renewable Energy Projects
Oct 7, 2009 - U.S Department of Energy

U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu today announced the Department of Energy (DOE) will provide up to $750 million in funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to help accelerate the development of conventional renewable energy generation projects. This funding will cover the cost of loan guarantees which could support as much as $4 to 8 billion in lending to eligible projects, and the Department will invite private sector participation to accelerate the financing of these renewable energy projects.
Dow Unveils Solar Shingles
Oct 7, 2009 - Todd Woody - The New York Times

Dow Chemical has unveiled a residential roof shingle in the form of a solar panel designed to be integrated into asphalt-tiled roofs.
EBR officials expect millions from methane project
Oct 7, 2009 - The Associated Press

East Baton Rouge Parish officials say they expect to earn up to $33 million during the next 20 years with a new methane collection project at the North Baton Rouge Landfill.
Shakopee Mdewakanton raise 386-foot-tall turbine
Oct 7, 2009 - The Associated Press

A wind turbine as tall as a 38-story building is now standing on Shakopee Mdewakanton (med-WAH'-kuh-tuhn) Sioux Community land in Shakopee.
Show Me the Money: Loan Guarantee Solicitation for Commercial Technology Applications
Oct 7, 2009 - Stoel Rives

In a much-awaited move, the Department of Energy ("DOE") has issued another solicitation under its Section 1705 Loan Guarantee Program (the "Section 1705 Program"). Unlike other solicitations under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act ("ARRA"), this solicitation is not aimed at the borrowers or the developers — it is open to lenders only and invites them to apply for a partial, risk-sharing loan guarantee under the Department of Energy's ("DOE") Section 1705 Loan Guarantee Program for Commercial Technology Renewable Energy Generation Projects. This solicitation provides up to $750,000,000 of the $3.95 billion made available to support debt financing of U.S. renewable projects. The solicitation appears to be DOE's answer to the inability of eligible borrowers to meet the cost-share requirement.
Islandsbanki committed to Geothermal Energy development in the U.S
Oct 6, 2009 - Russell - IceNews

According to the third annual U.S. Geothermal Energy Market Report issued by Islandsbanki (formerly Glitnir), there are around 144 geothermal energy projects in development in the United States today.
Wind expert: Maine needs transmission upgrades
Oct 6, Glenn Adams - The Associated Press

A wind energy expert on Tuesday added his voice to those who say upgrading Maine's power transmission system is critical for the state to reach its wind-power potential.
Obama puts government on greenhouse-gas diet
Oct 5, 2009 - Dina Cappiello - The Associated Press

President Barack Obama is putting the federal government on a greenhouse-gas diet.
Ontario: The next solar hotbed?
Oct , 2009 - Michael Bates - Solar Industry Magazine

A little more than a week ago, the government of Ontario revealed the missing pieces of its Green Energy Act and the associated "Ten Steps to Green Energy." One of those steps - a feed-in tariff - has the potential to dramatically change the solar photovoltaic market in the province.
E.ON Climate & Renewables Completes World's Largest Wind Farm
Oct 01, 2009 - PRNewswire

Today, E.ON Climate and Renewables (EC&R) announced the completion of the world's largest wind farm near Roscoe, Texas. The Roscoe wind complex has an installed capacity of 781.5 megawatts (MW), generating enough electricity to power more than 230,000 homes.
Salazar Details Administration’s Policy Push to Build 21st Century Power Transmission Grid
Sep 30, 2009 - Department of Interior

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar told energy industry officials today that the federal government’s past electric transmission policy has been as fragmented and disjointed as the nation’s outdated power grid and that one of President Obama’s top energy priorities is to speed the development of a 21st Century network to move American energy more cleanly, efficiently and safely around the nation.
California Accelerates its Pursuit of Clean Energy
Sep 30, 2009 - EERE Network News

California's commitment to renewable energy and energy efficiency got two major boosts recently.
Geothermal Power Could Top 10 Gigawatts, New Industry Report Shows
Sep 29, 2009 - RenewableEnergyWorld.com

Washington, DC - A new report by the Geothermal Energy Association (GEA) shows strong growth in new geothermal power projects continuing through 2009. U.S. Geothermal Power Production and Development Update, September 2009 identifies 144 new geothermal projects under development in fourteen states that could represent as much as 7,100 MW of new baseload power capacity. When added to the 3,100 MW of existing capacity, 10 Gigawatts of geothermal power appears to be feasible.
Ontario Launches Comprehensive System of Feed-in Tariffs
Sep 24, 2009 - Paul Gipe - Wind-Works.org

First System of Advanced Renewable Tariffs in North America follows from the Continent's Most Aggressive Climate Change Policy
Local solar outlook is worldly, TREO tells visiting journalists
Sept 21, 2009 - McClatchy-Tribune Regional News

There's enough noonday sunlight striking the University of Arizona campus to produce 1.5 gigawatts of electricity and power all of Tucson.
Ohio landfills making methane fuel from trash
Sep 20, 2009 - The Associated Press

About 40 percent of the country's 1,000 largest landfills, including 11 in Ohio, are collecting and marketing their landfill gases.
Clean energy gaining momentum
Sept 18, 2009 - Patrick Cassidy - McClatchy-Tribune Regional News

The future of marine renewable energy in the United States could include a large testing zone south of Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket, shared port facilities among states, and an electrical transmission grid buried beneath the seabed connecting offshore wind farms.
TEP Unveils Plans for Giant Photovoltaic Array and New Solar Power Plant
Sept 16, 2009 - Business Wire

Tucson Electric Power (TEP) is working with partners to develop two new solar power systems that would rank as the Tucson area's largest renewable power plants, generating enough clean energy to serve more than 6,000 Tucson homes.
Study for New England Governors Shows Region Has Significant Potential to Develop Renewables
Sept 15, 2009 - Business Wire

At the request of New England's six governors, ISO New England Inc., the operator of the region's bulk power system and wholesale electricity markets, recently released the results of a months-long study evaluating renewable resource potential in the region and beyond, as well as the economic and environmental impacts of that development.
States sharing the sea for wind industry
Sept 9, 2009 - Evan Lehmann - The New Yorkk Times

BOSTON -- Plans are brewing to promote a network of offshore wind farms all along the East Coast connected by a transmission "spine" and shared shipping ports where local turbines will embark for deepwater power fields over the horizon.
27 companies exploring area's wind potential
Sept 8, 2009 - Jessica Cejnar - McClatchy-Tribune Regional News

Solar may be at the forefront of alternative energy exploration in the Mojave Desert, but a myriad of companies are also looking at the potential of wind as another clean source of electricity.
Wanted: A Geothermal Pump That Can Handle the Heat
Aug 27, 2009 - Phil Taylor - Scientific American

What will it take to develop a geothermal pump that can operate miles underground in 430-degree-Fahrenheit fluids while maintaining a steady 750 horsepower?
Utility wants to deploy largest grid battery ever
Aug 27, 2009 - Poornima Gupta - Reuters

SAN FRANCISCO - Southern California Edison said on Wednesday it is seeking a U.S. grant to store wind power in the largest-ever grid storage battery, to be built by A123 Systems.
First U.S. hydrokinetic project begins commercial operations
Aug 26, 2009 - EERE News

The first federally licensed in-stream hydrokinetic power project in the United States began operating commercially on August 20 on the Mississippi River in Hastings, Minnesota.
Utilities, Groups at Odds Over Sources for Renewable Energy
Aug 24, 2009 - The Sacramento Bee

California's electric utilities have accepted that they'll be required to get a third of their power from renewable sources by 2020.
Washington forests may be solution to state's green-energy quest
Aug 20, 2009 - Sandra Hines - University Week

Wood is a popular fuel for heating homes in the Northwest but few people might see it as an important source of liquid fuels for motor vehicles. However, a new UW report commissioned by the Washington Legislature suggests that woody biomass could represent the state's greatest opportunity to develop biofuels and reduce both green house gas emissions and dependency upon imported oil.
Retrofitting dams to generate electricity
Aug 19, 2009 - Kate Galbraith - The New York Times

Environmental opposition often means that new hydropower facilities are non-starters. But there may be a way around that: retrofitting existing dams.
First Solar, Southern California Edison Sign Contracts for 550 MW of Photovoltaic Solar Electricity
Aug 18, 2009 - Business Wire

First Solar, Inc. and Southern California Edison (SCE) today announced agreements to build two large-scale solar power projects in Riverside and San Bernardino counties in Southern California. The installations, which will be among the largest of their kind, will have a generation capacity of 550 megawatts of photovoltaic solar electricity, enough to provide power to approximately 170,000 homes. The agreements are subject to approval by the California Public Utilities Commission.
Wind and natural gas: frenemies forever
Aug 18, 2009 - Russell Gold - The Wall Street Journal

Is natural gas a friend to – or foe of – renewable energy? Earlier this month, at the big clean energy summit in Las Vegas, a parade of dignitaries praised natural gas for generating electricity with about half the carbon emissions as coal. And Energy Secretary Steven Chu called T. Boone Pickens’s plan to use wind and natural gas to displace coal a transition to a renewable energy future.
Utilities Hatch Ambitious Plans to Own and Operate Large-scale PV Projects
Aug 13, 2009 - Justin Moresco - RenewableEnergyWorld.com

n years past, solar photovoltaic (PV) installations were largely done in a piecemeal fashion, planned and implemented one rooftop or ground-mounted system at a time. But as solar technology has improved and as state governments demand more renewable generation through portfolio standards, large-scale projects are becoming more common. A growing number of utilities, rather than depend on independent power producers to build these projects, have launched multi-million dollar initiatives to own and operate their own solar assets.
Clean energy bank could drive $200 billion in investment, generating over 2 million jobs
Aug 11, 2009 - Climate Progress.org

A little-discussed provision in the clean energy bill, the Clean Energy Deployment Administration, would have a huge impact on the U.S. clean tech industry, as this guest post by CAP’s Jake Caldwell explains. Yet the EIA didn’t even model the clean energy bank in its recent climate bill analysis. Combined with all the other provisions in the bill, plus the stimulus and the Administration’s other clean energy and climate policies, Obama would easily meet his promise of $150 billion in U.S. government investment in clean energy over 10 years — and in fact will ultimately drive some $100 billion a year in total U.S. investment in clean energy.
San Diego Selected As Target Market for Largest Transportation Electrification Project in U.S. History
Aug 5, 2009 - MARKETWIRE

San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E), San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) and Electric Transportation Engineering Corporation (eTec) today announced that eTec, a leader in the research, development and testing of advanced transportation and energy systems, has been selected by the U.S. Department of Energy to implement the largest transportation electrification project in U.S. history through a $99.8 million grant.
Award - winning reflector to cut solar cost
Aug 3, 2009 - NREL

Huge parabolic mirrors catching the sun's rays could crisscross America's deserts soon, thanks to a breakthrough that may greatly lower the cost of solar power.
Talks under way for huge power project
Aug 2, 2009 - Denise A. Raymo - McClatchy-Tribune Regional News

Another large-scale, international hydropower project is in negotiations between the New York Power Authority and Canadian entities.
Obama Administration Announces $30 Billion in Loan Guarantees for Renewable Energy Projects and to Modernize the Grid
Jul 31, 2009 -Wind Today

Washington, DC--U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu announced July 29 that the Department of Energy will provide up to $30 billion in loan guarantees, depending on the applications and market conditions, for renewable energy projects.
FedEx Ground Plans Largest Rooftop Solar Power System in U.S.
Jul 30, 2009 - BUSINESS WIRE

FedEx Ground, the small-package shipping unit of FedEx Corp., today announced plans to install the nation's largest rooftop solar-electric system at its distribution hub in Woodbridge, N.J.
U.S. Military Leads Green Charge
Jul 29, 2009 - Bill Opalka - Renewable Energy World.Com

The U.S. military is not just setting standards in the areas of advanced weaponry. It's also leading the renewable energy charge. It's involved in solar, geothermal and wind projects and its stake in the field will continue to grow.
Renewable Sources Soar To Over 11% Of U.S. Energy Production
July 29, 2009 - Ken Bosson - Sun Day Campaign

Washington DC -- According to the latest issue of the "Monthly Energy Review" by the U.S. Energy Information Administration, production of renewable energy for the first third of 2009 (i.e., January 1 – April 30) was six percent higher compared to the same time period in 2008. Moreover, renewable energy accounted for 11.1 percent of domestic energy production in April 2009 and exceeded the amount contributed by nuclear power.
Wind Power: U.S. Wind Installations Keep On Coming
Jul 28, 2009 - Keith Johnson - Wall Street Journal

Mark Twain famously complained that rumors of his death were greatly exaggerated. The same could be said of the U.S. wind-power industry
Residents and Dignitaries Join GDF SUEZ to Celebrate the Grand Opening of the West Cape Wind Farm on PEI
Jul 23, 2009 - CNW

More than 100 residents, community leaders, business executives, and government officials today joined GDF SUEZ in O'Leary on Prince Edward Island to mark the grand opening of the expanded West Cape Wind Farm, the largest wind farm in Atlantic Canada.
United States Leads Wind Power Market
Jul 20, 2009 - United Press International

The United States dominated the world's fast-growing wind power market for the fourth consecutive year, federal energy officials said.
Study Suggests Wind Power Potential Is Much Higher Than Current Estimates
Jul 16, 2009 - John Loring - The New York Times

Global wind energy potential is considerably higher than previous estimates by both wind industry groups and government agencies, according to a Harvard University study published last week in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States.
For Cheap Clean Energy, Go Geothermal, Study Says
Jul 16, 2009 - Jeff St. Johns - greentechnmedia.com

An NYU Stern study says geothermal energy is the cheapest renewable energy out there, and could compete with coal with about $3.3 billion in government research funding.
Putting the cost of going green in context
Jul 15, - 2009 Kurt Zenz House - Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists

Over time, the global energy infrastructure must change because the continued combustion of fossil fuels is altering Earth's climate in potentially dangerous ways and because the large wealth transfer from mostly democratic oil-importing countries to mostly autocratic oil-exporting countries is propping up repressive regimes worldwide. So, we know that the world's energy infrastructure must change. But, the interesting questions are: how big an investment are we willing to make to bring about that change and how fast are we willing to make that investment?
UC Berkeley researchers harness nanotechnology for solar panels
Jul 10, 2009 - Daily Californian/UWire

The answer to developing low-cost solar panels may lie in the creation of tiny 3-dimensional fibers that are 1,000 times smaller than a human hair.
Villaraigosa Seeks an End to Coal Power
Jul 5, 2009 - Daily Breeze

Even with the prospects of higher rates, Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa is pushing to speed the conversion of the Department of Water and Power from cheap coal power to expanded use of renewable energy.
Show Me the Money: Allocations of $42.5 Million to Solid-State Lighting
Jul 1, 2009 - Stoel Rives

On June 29, 2009, the Department of Energy ("DOE") issued three Funding Opportunity Announcements ("FOAs") to deploy over $41.5 million from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to be used to fund solid-state lighting1 ("SSL") product development, manufacturing, and innovation. These funds are being deployed through three FOAs. The first FOA provides $11.5 million to support research in the SSL Product Development Program. The second FOA provides $22 million to support applied research in the SSL U.S. Manufacturing Program. The third FOA provides approximately $8 million to support applied research in the Lighting Research and Development Program.
Iberdrola Renovables builds three new wind farms in the US
Jun 29, 2009 - Datamonitor

Spanish clean power company Iberdrola Renovables is consolidating its position in the US by starting the construction of new wind farms in Illinois, North Dakota and Oregon.
US Interior Secretary Outlines Solar Energy Zones In US West
Jun 29, 2009 - Dow Jones & Company, Inc.

Interior Department Secretary Ken Salazar on Monday announced measures he said would expedite solar energy projects on federal lands.
Hawaii Gov. Lingle signs 3 clean energy bills
Jun 27, 2009 - The Associated Press

Three measures aimed at increasing the state's reliance on solar, wind and other clean energy sources are now law.
California Regulators Approve Southern California Edison Proposal to Create Nation's Largest Solar Panel Installation Program
Jun 18, 2009 - Business Wire

A plan proposed by Southern California Edison (SCE) for the largest U.S. installation of advanced solar panels on otherwise unused large commercial rooftops across Southern California was approved today by the California Public Utilities Commission.
U.S. green economy needs plan to hit potential: study
Jun 11, 2009 - Timothy Gardner - Reuters

NEW YORK - The United States should pass a comprehensive energy plan to ensure the number of jobs in environmental fields, such as renewable energy and cutting air pollution, will keep rising as they did in the decade to 2007, a Pew report said on Wednesday.
Customizable Interactive Map Shows U.S. Alternative Fuel Data
Jun 9, 2009 - NREL

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the National Renewable Energy Lab (NREL) announced the launch of a comprehensive mapping tool to help industry and government planners implement alternative fuels and advanced vehicles. The new TransAtlas tool combines several different types of geographic data to identify areas with potential for developing advanced transportation projects. It is sponsored by DOE’s Clean Cities initiative, which aims to reduce petroleum consumption in the transportation sector by promoting advanced vehicle technologies and alternative fuels. This interactive mapping tool is available by visiting www.afdc.energy.govand clicking on the TransAtlas icon.
First-of-its-kind map shows L.A. county a likely epicenter of California's green economy
Jun 3, 2009 - Environmental Defense Fund

Los Angeles County has more businesses than any other county in California that stand to benefit from the state's leadership on climate change, according to a first-of-its-kind map of green businesses in California released today. The map was released in conjunction with a report outlining how the Los Angeles area can leverage its environmental leadership to create economic opportunities.
Quebec has plenty of hydro power to sell
Jun 2, 2009 - Larry Rulison - McClatchy-Tribune Regional News

Claude Bechard, Quebec's minister of natural resources and wildlife, came to Albany Monday to offer water to Gov. David Paterson.
Hawaii says Aloha (Greetings) to clean, renewable energy
Jun 1, 2009 - Robynne Boyd - Scientific American

The 50th state's call for energy sovereignty could set the pace for the rest of the nation.
Energy from pig slurry helps fight climate change
May 31, 2009 - The Associated Press - Arthur Max

The 2,700 pigs on the farm that John Horrevorts manages yield more than ham and bacon. A biogas plant makes enough electricity from their waste to run the farm and feeds extra wattage into the Dutch national grid.
Mass. putting final touches on ocean planning map
May 31, 2009 - The Associated Press - Steve LeBlanc

As the nation increasingly looks to its oceans for energy, Massachusetts is putting the final touches on a vast regulatory map designed to plot out where wind farms, and other offshore projects, can be located in its coastal waters.
Energy from - molten salt?
May 29, 2009 - Dan Whitcomb - Reuters

In these green times energy producers are leaving no stone unturned in the hunt for new sources of energy.
Utilities Test Google Software To Save Energy
May 20, 2009 - Dow Jones & Company, Inc

A handful of electric utilities are rolling out software made by Internet giant Google Inc. (GOOG) as part of their "smart- meter" programs in hopes it will help customers conserve energy.
220 MPH solar-powered bullet train on Arizona horizon
May 12, 2009 - Jorge Chapa - inhabitat

Travelers going from Tucson to Phoenix may soon be blazing across the desert in speeding solar bullet trains propelled by the sun’s rays. Hot on the heels of President Obama’s plan for High Speed Rail in the US comes the news that Arizona-based Solar Bullet LLC is proposing a new 220mph bullet train that will be entirely powered by the sun and will make the trip in 30 minutes flat.
Secretary Salazar Pledges to Open Four Renewable Energy Permitting Offices, Create Renewable Energy Teams
May 06, 2009 - Interior Department Documents and Publications/ContentWorks

To expedite production of renewable energy on public lands while protecting land, water, and wildlife, Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar today pledged to create four Renewable Energy Coordination Offices, one each in California, Nevada, Wyoming, and Arizona, along with smaller renewable energy teams in New Mexico, Idaho, Utah, Colorado and Oregon.
World's Largest Solar Power Tower Commissioned
May 4, 2009 - RenewableEnergyWorld.com

Abengoa Solar has begun commercial operations of the world's largest solar power tower plant, a 20 MW installation.
Renewables challenge utility interconnections
Apr 29, 2009 - Bill Opalka - EnergyBiz insider

When wind farm developers lined up at a grid operator's or utility's door a few years ago, plans to add a new project didn't cause undue concern. After all, 10 megawatts here, 50 megawatts there, weren't going to significantly change the scheduling.
WVa court rejects attempt to halt power line
Apr 29, 2009 - Brian farkas - The Associated Press

The state Supreme Court decided Wednesday not to interfere with plans to construct a high voltage power line across northern West Virginia despite arguments that the line would inflict environmental harm and higher utility rates on state residents.
PJM Launches Dashboard on Renewable Energy
Apr 28, 2009 - PRNewswire

Amid the debates on Capitol Hill regarding climate change and the growing interest in renewable energy, PJM Interconnection is launching a one-stop resource to better understand renewable energy resources on the PJM power grid.
Study: Kansas could be exporter of renewable energy
Apr 28, 2009 - The Associated Press

Kansas has the potential to become a major exporter of renewable energy, producing many new jobs and new tax revenue, a national study found.
Cap-and-Trade Program Creates Green Jobs
Apr 23, 2009 - Doug Struck - Scientific American - sciam.com

The cap-and-trade program created by 11 Northeastern states has begun to deliver revenues that are being used to pay the salaries of new "green collar" workers
Canadian Electricity Association releases North American policy paper, "Enhancing our Integrated Electricity System: An Opportunity to Build on Success"
Apr 22, 2009 - Canada NewsWire

The Canadian Electricity Association (CEA) today released its annual North American policy paper in Washington DC. Entitled: "Enhancing our Integrated Electricity System: An Opportunity to Build on Success," the paper presents the Canadian industry's views on opportunities for bilateral engagement between Canada and the US to meet head-on the challenges facing the electricity sector. It can be found on the CEA website at www.canelect.ca.
U.S. May Never Need More Nuclear, Coal Plants, FERC Head Says
Apr 22, 2009 - Tina Seeley - Bloomberg

The U.S. may never need to build new nuclear or coal-fired power plants because renewable energy and improved efficiency can meet future power demand, the head of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission said.
More Funding Opportunity Announcements for Smart Grid
Apr 21, 2009 - Stoel Rives, LLP

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act ("ARRA") provides $4.5 billion to the Department of Energy's ("DOE") Office of Electricity Delivery and Energy Reliability ("OED") to be used in upgrading and modernizing the nation's electricity grid. The funds are intended to be used in, among other things, research and development of technologies that improve the delivery of electricity, including distributed energy (small-scale and modular devices designed to provide electricity to locations close to consumers), energy storage to help balance electricity output with demand (important to the integration of inconsistent energy sources such as wind and solar) and other smart grid technologies.
Obama's Role in the Smart Grid
Apr 20, 2009 - Ken Silverstein - Energy Biz Insider

Ken Silverstein EnergyBiz Insider Editor-in-Chief Read Ken's Blog Respond to the editor. The energy sector could spark the rejuvenation of America. It's all about the production of alternative energy and green jobs and it is being spearheaded by the president of the United States.
Hawaii gets to work on energy independence
Apr 18, 2009 - Mark Niesse - Associated Press

HONOLULU (The Associated Press) - Writer Printer Friendly Wind and solar power pioneers spent this week seeking their Holy Grail: the ability to easily sell renewable electricity for use on Hawaii's power grids.
Growing wind, solar power challenge US grid - study
Apr 17, 2009 - Eileen O'Grady

The push to add more renewable wind and solar megawatts to the US electric mix will force changes in the way the power grid operates to keep electricity flowing reliably, said an industry watchdog Thursday.
AWEA welcomes findings of NERC integration study
Apr 16, 2009 - Energy Central

The American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) is pleased with the findings of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation’s (NERC’s) Integrating Variable Generation Task Force (IVGTF) report. This is an excellent roadmap for the grid planning and operations changes needed for America’s future electric generation portfolio.
NERC: Renewables Can Be Integrated With System Changes
Apr 15, 2009 - Bill Opalka - Energy Central

Large quantities of renewable energy can be integrated into the nation's transmission grid without impairing reliability. But there will have to be changes in the planning and operation of the grid, according to a highly anticipated report by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC).
Carnegie Mellon Experts Say Cap and Trade Policies Are Not Enough To Reduce Emissions by 2050
Apr 13, 2009 - ASCRIBE NEWS

A team of researchers at Carnegie Mellon University report in a new policy brief that cap and trade climate policies alone will not be sufficient to put the nation on track to achieve a 50 to 80 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions of carbon dioxide by mid-century.
FERC Ruling Advances Green Power Express
Apr 13, 2009 - PRNewswire-FirstCall

In a decision that supports renewable wind resources becoming an important part of supplying the nation's electric energy needs, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) approved Green Power Express LP's request for favorable transmission investment incentives. It also authorized the establishment of a regulatory asset for development and pre-construction costs. These approvals will enable the partnership to pursue the development of its proposed, multi-state Green Power Express Project.
Report says spies compromised US electric grid
Apr 8, 2009 - Jordan Robertson - The Associated Press

Spies hacked into the U.S. electric grid and left behind computer programs that would let them disrupt service, exposing potentially catastrophic vulnerabilities in key pieces of national infrastructure, a former U.S. government official said Wednesday.
New Google maps to guide solar, wind placement
Apr 7, 2009 - Adam Hadhazy

Where should new solar and wind power facilities go? Seems many of the best potential sites, including rugged, windswept regions in the Rocky Mountains to the sun-baked Mojave Desert, contain swathes of land legally set aside as national parks, or support what remains of an endangered species' dwindling habitat, for example.
Salazar: Eastern Wind Could Equal Coal for Power
Apr 6, 2009 - The Associated Press

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (AP) -- If wind power were fully developed off the East Coast, windmills could generate enough electricity to replace most, if not all, the coal-fired power plants in the United States, Interior Secretary Ken Salazar said Monday.
California Public Utilities Commission Issues New Proposed Decision on Tradable Renewable Energy Credits
Apr 3, 2009 - Stoel Rives LLP

On October 29 of last year, the California Public Utilities Commission issued a proposed decision that, if approved, would have allowed California's investor-owned utilities to meet their obligation to procure renewable generation by purchasing tradable or unbundled renewable energy credits ("Tradable RECs").1 Tradable RECs are the environmental or "green" attributes of renewable power separated from the underlying energy, allowing the utility to purchase the Tradable RECs from a renewable generator without buying the energy.
Secretary Salazar: U.S. Offshore Wind Resources Could Lead America’s Clean-Energy Revolution
Apr 2, 2009 - www.doi.gov

U.S. offshore areas hold enormous potential for wind energy development near the nation’s highest areas of electricity demand – coastal metropolitan centers, Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar said today.
TVA agrees to pursue renewable energy purchases
Apr 2, 2009 - Duncan Mansfield - The Associated Press

In the face of looming legislative pressures for cleaner energy, the nation's largest public utility agreed Thursday to buy more than a nuclear reactor's worth of electricity from renewable energy sources.
Western U.S. Entities Move Quickly on Geothermal Mapping
Apr 1, 2009 - Charles W. Thurston - RenewableEnergyWorld.com

Several large geothermal resource mapping projects are heading toward conclusion so that finally, the power source can be more accurately considered in siting new electricity transmission lines for renewable power development.
New Google maps show sensitive areas of West
Apr 1, 2009 - Matt Joyce - The Associated Press

The National Audubon Society and the Natural Resources Defense Council on Wednesday announced the creation of Google Earth maps of 13 western states intended to help steer renewable energy development away from sensitive areas.
NREL Assigns Renewables Experts to Hawaii, Alaska
Mar 30, 2009 - NREL

NREL has dispatched clean energy experts to Hawaii and Alaska to work as advisors to local policymakers and utilities.
U.S. to host major economies talks on climate change April 27-28
Mar 28, 2009 - The Associated Press

President Barack Obama will host a meeting on climate change and energy in Washington on April 27-28 to help facilitate a global agreement to curb greenhouse gas emissions, the White House said Saturday.
World's Second Largest Solar Plant to be Built in Florida
Mar 27, 2009 - PRWeb.com

Lauren Engineers & Constructors recently signed a contract with Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) as the engineering, procurement and construction contractor for a new 75 MW Concentrated Solar Power (http://www1.eere.energy.gov/solar/csp_program.html) Plant located near Indiantown, FL.
Obama links budget to environment
Mar 23, 2009 - Philip Elliot - The Associated Press

President Barack Obama said Monday the nation must move quickly to develop clean and innovative sources of energy after years of delay.
Renewables' Share of U.S. Electricity Supply Soars in 2008
Mar 23, 2009 - Energy Central

According to the latest figures published by the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) in its "Electric Power Monthly" report released on March 24, 2009, non-hydro renewable sources of electricity enjoyed double-digit growth during the past year while coal, natural gas, and petroleum experienced notable declines and nuclear power remained stagnant.
Wind farms speed up on Molokai and Lanai
Mar 18, 2009 - Mark Niesse - The Associated Press

Three energy companies announced plans Tuesday to team up and build wind farms on Hawaii's more rural islands to feed electricity to the urban core in Honolulu.
Calif. nabs world’s largest landfill-to-fuel plant
Mar 11, 2009 - World of renewables.com

California is now home to the world’s largest plant converting landfill gas into usable natural gas.
Energy [R]evolution: A Sustainable USA Energy Outlook
Mar 11, 2009 - German Aerospace Center & European Renewable Enertgy Council

Energy [R]evolution: A Sustainable U.S.A. Energy Outlook details how the United States can cut greenhouse gas emissions to the levels we must reach in order to prevent the worst effects of global warming and simultaneously build a sustainable economy.
Transmission 2.0
Mar 10, 2009 - Peter Dupey - RenewableEnergyWorld.com

Clean Power and the Political, Economic and Environmental Imperative for a New Energy Infrastructure by Peter Dupey, CEO, Acciona Energy North America
The United States is already one of the world's most attractive wind energy markets and despite signs of a slow down, the sector could achieve far, far more. With a new administration in the White House comes an opportunity to address some of the key barriers to continued wind sector growth. Obama has already more than hinted at a programme of accerated grid development and more renewables, and here, Peter Duprey explains, the development of a new type of transmission system must indeed be a priority.
Salazar pushes for wind energy
Mar 9, 2009 - Dina Cappiello and H. Josef Hebert- Associated Press

WASHINGTON - Interior Secretary Ken Salazar said Monday that the waters off the Atlantic coast hold some of the country's greatest wind energy potential, and he promised to move aggressively to develop plans to exploit the resource.
Regional wind-energy proposal gets mixed reaction
Mar 9, 2009 - The Associated Press

MINNEAPOLIS - A proposal for a high-voltage power line that would transmit wind energy from sparsely populated areas of the gusty Midwest to some less-windy parts of the country is getting mixed reaction in Minnesota.
Majority Leader Reid Introduces Renewables-Focused Transmission Bill
Mar 6, 2009 - AWEA -Wind Energy Weekly

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) introduced the first of what may be several transmission bills aimed at harnessing renewable energy.
Senate leader introduces national clean energy transmission system bill
March 5, 2009 - Kate Rowland - Energy Central

The opening notes of a clean, green electric transmission symphony were heard Thursday in Congress as Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid introduced proposed legislation that will require the President to designate renewable energy zones in areas with significant clean energy generating potential.
NERC Chair: Integrating Renewable Resources a 'Priority'
Mar 3, 2009 - William Opalka - Energy Central

Discussions have percolated for several years about the need to integrate renewable resources but with jump-starting the transmission build-out on everybody's mind, the talk has become more urgent.
Dell to use windpower for OKC facility
Feb 24, 2009 - The Associate Press

Dell Inc. has announced plans to power its 240,000 square-foot Oklahoma City campus with 100 percent wind energy.
Fed eyes renewable energy projects
Feb 23, 2009 - McClatchy-Tribune Regional News - James Monteleone - The Daily Times

The federal stimulus bill is anticipated to steer $43 billion in nationwide investments into a yearling renewable energy industry, but the slumped oil and gas industry likely will be left out.
Energy plays big role in stimulus plan
Feb 17, 2009 -- UPI

A smart electric grid and the development of clean, renewable energy to power a 21st century U.S. economy are part of the stimulus plan, the White House said.
PSE&G Proposes $773 Million Solar Energy Program
Feb 10, 2009 - PRNewswire - FirstCall

Public Service Electric and Gas Company (PSE&G) today asked New Jersey regulators to approve a $773-million proposal to bring the benefits of 120 megawatts of solar power directly to communities and customers throughout its service territory.
Study: Billions Needed to Deliver Wind Power to Eastern Interconnection
Feb 9, 2009 - PRNewswire - Reuters

The Joint Coordinated System Plan (JCSP'08), the first step of a transmission and generation system expansion analysis of the majority of the Eastern Interconnection, estimates the electricity sector will need over $80 billion in new transmission infrastructure to obtain 20% of the region's electricity from wind generation.
Ontario could be coal-free by 2010 with a truly bold Green Energy Act
Feb 9, 2009 - Michael Oliveira - The Canadian Press

TORONTO - Ontario's energy mix could be virtually 100 per cent coal-free by next year, especially if the government boosted conservation by residents and acted boldly with its upcoming Green Energy Act, suggests a new report.
Commission gives its approval to feed-in tariff for solar power
Feb 6, 2009 - Megan Rolland - Gainesville.com

Beginning March 1, those in Gainesville with new solar photovoltaic systems will be eligible to receive 32 cents per kilowatt hour of electricity produced by the system over the next 20 years.
Electric Transmission Investments Needed to Unlock Enormous Wind Power Resources in US
Feb 2, 2009 - emergingenergy.com

Cambridge, Massachusetts - The electric transmission investments proposed in the new Obama administration’s stimulus plan would have a major impact on wind power development in the US, according to Emerging Energy Research, a Cambridge MA advisory firm in the renewable energy sector. EER has recently profiled nine of the largest transmission initiatives under development in the western United States, which alone are set to unlock 57 GW of new wind power -- more than tripling the existing wind power capacity in the US. While most of these large-scale projects are not scheduled for completion until after 2015, hundreds of smaller transmission lines and grid upgrades can provide a more immediate impact on wind power development in the US.
U.S. becomes top wind producer, solar next
Feb 2, 2009 - Reuters

LONDON () - The United States overtook Germany as the biggest producer of wind power last year, new figures showed, and will likely take the lead in solar power this year, analysts said on Monday.
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Key Provisions Benefiting the Solar Energy Industry in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.
Feb 2009 - Solar Energy Industries Association

Here is a summary of the key provisions, courtesy of the Solar Energy Industries Association.
After Katrina, New Orleans is going green
Jan 27, 2009 - Cain Burdeau - The Associated Press

New Orleans - The city known more for French Quarter trash than recycling or renewable energy is going green. In rebuilding since Hurricane Katrina, homes are being fitted with solar panels, organic farming is catching on and the city's got a new fleet of hybrid buses.
For the First Time, Renewable Energy Accounts for the largest Share of Annual Increase in U.S. Electricial Generatiang Capacity
January 23, 2009 - Ken Bossong - Sun Campaign

Washington DC -- For the first time ever, non-hydroelectric renewable energy, led by wind power, was the leading source of new electric generating capacity in the United States, according to a newly-released report "Electric Power Annual 2007" from the U.S. Energy Information Administration.
NM conference focuses on green economy
Jan 21, 2009 - Sue Major Holmes - The Associated Press

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. - The head of New Energy Economy wants businesses, universities and governments to create partnerships and put New Mexico in a position "to capture the green wave of investment that's out there."
Geothermal Energy Bringing Millions of New Dollars to Federal, State, and Local Governments, Industry Report Concludes
Jan. 15, 2009 - /PRNewswire-USNewswire/

WASHINGTON - According to a new report issued today by the Geothermal Energy Association (GEA), changes made in 2005 to federal geothermal leasing laws are bringing in millions of new and additional dollars to federal, state, and county government coffers. In just two years, FY 2007 and FY 2008, $82 million in new revenues were generated by geothermal activities, according to GEA.
Groups press for tribe-friendly renewable energy policies
Jan 7, 2009 - McClatchy-Tribune Regional News - Rob Capriccioso - Indian Country Today, Oneida, N.Y.

As more tribes explore and get involved in the renewable energy field, a network of tribal groups is asking President-elect Barack Obama to support tribally owned and operated renewable energy projects, along with economic development initiatives that could reduce dependence on fossil fuels
Energetic start to new year: Laws that broaden 'net metering' take effect today
Jan 1, 2009 - McClatchy-Tribune Regional News - Larry Rulison - Albany Times Union

New York - New state laws that allow businesses to sell renewable energy they generate back to their utility take effect today.
Austin aims to become U.S. 'Clean Energy Capital'
Dec 4, 2008 - Tom Fowler - Houstin Chronicle

Microsoft is part of consortium to help make city's power grid both green and 'smart.' Austin, Texas, is hoping to recreate its 1980s success at becoming a high-tech business hub, but this time it's shooting for the title of America's Clean Energy Capital.
State releases energy independence plan
Dec 23, 2008 - The Associated Press

DES MOINES, Iowa - Iowa's Office of Energy Independence released it's second annual energy plan on Tuesday, calling for private-sector investment in renewable energy and job creation.
Sempra Generation Completes North America's Largest 'Thin-Film' Solar Power Installation
Dec 22, 2008 - Market Wire

Sempra Generation, a subsidiary of Sempra Energy (NYSE: SRE), today announced the completion of the company's first solar energy project, a 10-megawatt (MW) photovoltaic power-generation facility adjacent to the company's existing 480-megawatt El Dorado Energy power plant near Boulder City, Nev., about 40 miles southeast of Las Vegas.
Despite downturn, Calif. adopts tough climate plan
Dec 12, 2008 - Samantha Young - The Associated Press

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – California on Thursday adopted the nation's most sweeping plan to cut greenhouse gas emissions, issuing rules that could transform everything from the way factories operate to the appliances people buy and the fuel they put in their cars.
Southern California Edison Completes First of Its Major Commercial Rooftop Solar Installations
Dec 01, 2008 - BUSINESS WIRE

Southern California Edison (SCE) today announced completion of the first of its proposed 150 solar photovoltaic installations on Southern California commercial rooftops. The project could eventually cover two square miles of existing commercial roofs with 250 million watts of peak generating capacity - equivalent to building several utility-scale solar power plants.
Already Subscribed With Wind, Wyoming-Colorado Intertie Offers More Capacity Wind Energy Weekly
Nov 25, 2008 - Wind Energy Weekly

Less than three months after deeming its open season capacity auction a success when wind developers jumped to secure space on the planned transmission line, the Wyoming-Colorado Intertie (WCI) announced it is making available the remaining 265 MW of unsold capacity.
New solar maps help homeowners and installers
Nov 3, 2008 - McClatchy-Tribune Regional News - Matt Nauman San Jose mercury News, Calif.

Innovations in online mapping are contributing to the rapid growth of solar energy. The high-tech tools benefit everyone from homeowners and solar-panel installers to the developers and financiers of large-scale power projects, industry experts said at a recent solar conference here.
Hawaii outlines renewable energy goals
Oct 21, 2008 - Mark Niesse - The Associated

Hawaii's largest utility has signed on to a plan to move the state away from dependence on fossil fuels for electricity and ground transportation.
Solar mapping technology rolling out
Oct 11, 2008 - Steve Gelsi - MarketWatch

CH2M Hill wins $6 million contract to map 25 cities
NEW YORK (MarketWatch) -- Home and business owners in 25 cities will soon be able to punch up the solar energy potential of their own rooftops on a free Web site, under a new mapping program rolling out with backing from the U.S. Department of Energy.
Ocean Offers Hope for Green Energy
Sep 25, 2008 - The Philadelphia Inquirer

Five miles off the southern tip of Long Beach Island, an oversize yellow buoy floats alone, purposefully mounting the waves and occasionally phoning home.
Carbon goes on the auction block in NY
Sep 25, 2008 - Karen Matthews - The Associated Press

NEW YORK - Greenhouse gases went on sale Thursday as 10 Northeastern and mid-Atlantic states held the nation's first auction of pollution credits aimed at curbing global warming.
Utilities Shrink the Role of Coal
Sep 22, 2008 - USA Today

The power industry is stepping up its shift away from coal-fired electricity amid global-warming concerns, as some utilities shut down generators early or terminate contracts to buy coal-based energy.
E.ON Delivers First Phases of the Worlds Largest Wind Farm
Sep 22, 2008 - U.S. Newswire

E.ON Climate & Renewables officially opened the first two phases of its wind farm in Roscoe, Texas, today. The wind farm can now generate 335.5 MW of electricity, enough to power over 100,000 homes. Once all four phases are completed in mid-2009, Roscoe will be the worlds largest wind farm with 627 wind turbines and a total capacity of 781.5 MW enough to power 265,000 Texan homes.
Dousing the Coal-Fired Plant
Sep 21, 2008 - USA Today New York

New York - In a report compiled in early 2007, the Department of Energy listed 151 coal-fired power plants in the planning stages and talked about a resurgence in coal-fired electricity. However, over the next several months, 59 proposed coal-fired power plants either were refused licenses by state governments or quietly abandoned. In addition to the 59 plants that were dropped, close to 50 more are being contested in the courts, and the remaining plants likely will be challenged as they reach the permitting stage. What began as a few local ripples of resistance quickly is evolving into a national tidal wave of grassroots opposition from environmental, health, farm, and community organizations and a fast-growing number of state governments. The public at large is turning against coal.
Minnesota Power's Wind Energy Project Reaches Milestone
Sep 08, 2008 - Business Wire

Minnesota Power's plan to harness wind energy from the plains of North Dakota and transmit it to customers took an important step forward with the signing of an agreement to purchase an interstate transmission line and phase out a long-term contract to buy coal-generated electricity.
Thanks to Wind Developers, Wyoming-Colorado Intertie 70% Subscribed
Aug 29, 2008 - Wind Energy Weekly

Wind developers led the way in securing capacity on the Wyoming-Colorado Intertie (WCI) Project in an open-season auction that sponsors deemed a success, saying the project will continue to move forward.
Wind farm lease in place for tribe
Aug 16, 2008 - The Associated Press

Lower Brule, S.D. - Studies are under way and a lease has been signed with the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe and some nearby landowners to develop a wind farm, described as the first such project on the tribe's land.
Solar utility: electricity from sunshine on a massive scale in California
Aug 15, 2008 - David Biello - Scientific American (60 Second Science)

The amount of solar photovoltaics harnessing electricity from sunshine in the U.S. will more than double by 2013, thanks to plans to build 800 megawatts worth in California. The two vast solar farms—covering more than 12 square miles—will be among the largest ever built in the world and dwarf the current U.S. record holder: Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada with 14 megawatts. In fact, the total amount of solar photovoltaics connected to the grid in the entire U.S. is just 473 megawatts at present.
Clipper Windpower and BP to develop 5050 MW wind farm in US
Jul 30, 2008 - Thomson Financial

Clipper Windpower and BP Alternative Energy have entered a 50:50 joint venture to develop one of the world's largest wind farm projects in the USA.
Democratic and Republican National Conventions to Be Powered by Wind, Sun
Jun 9, 2008 - Business Wire

The 2008 Democratic and Republican national conventions will be powered with clean, renewable wind and solar energy, Xcel Energy announced today. This is also the first time the same electric utility will serve both conventions in separate cities in the same year.
New Ohio Law Expected to Spawn 5,000-7,000 MW Wind Market
Apr 28, 2008 - Wind energy Weekly

Following unanimous Senate concurrence with an Ohio House bill, legislation to establish a 12.5%-by-2025 renewable electricity standard (RES) is headed to the desk of Governor Ted Strickland (D). The governor is expected to sign the bill, but has offered no public statement regarding the final legislation.
U.S. Department of Energy Launches Website with Energy Saving Tips for Consumers
Apr 22, 2008 - Energy Department Documents and Publications/ContentWorks

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today launched a new Internet feature which provides tips to consumers on how to make everyday Earth Day by making smart energy choices to save money while protecting the environment. The interactive web page, at www.energy.gov, shows consumers steps to use less energy with household electronics, lighting, and appliances to save on monthly bills and how to avoid wasting energy by improving the energy efficiency of their homes and cars.
Texas Study: Benefits of Wind Transmission Outweigh Costs
Apr 11, 2008 - Michael Goggin - AWEA - renewableenergyworld.com

A long-awaited study identifying the transmission infrastructure needed to link wind-rich areas in western Texas with population centers in the central and eastern parts of the state concludes that such transmission could be built at modest cost to ratepayers.
Large-Scale Solar Thermal Power Projects Planned for California
Apr 9, 2008 - EERE Network News

The push to develop large concentrating solar power (CSP) plants in California gained momentum last week, as FPL Energy filed an application to build a 250-megawatt CSP plant in the Mojave Desert and the Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) agreed to buy the power from up to 900 megawatts of CSP projects proposed by BrightSource Energy, Inc. The FPL Energy project, called the Beacon Solar Energy Project, will employ trough-shaped parabolic mirrors to concentrate the sun's heat, capture the heat in a fluid such as oil, and then transfer that heat to a boiler. The boiler generates steam that drives a turbine to produce electricity. FPL Energy plans to build, own, and operate the facility, which will be located on 2,000 acres of land in eastern Kern County. Construction is slated to begin late next year, and it will take about two years to build the project, which will consist of more than 500,000 parabolic mirrors.
Southern California Edison Launches Nation's Largest Solar Panel Installation
Mar 27, 2008 - Business Wire

Southern California Edison (SCE) today launched the nation's largest solar cell installation, a project that will place 250 megawatts of advanced photovoltaic generating technology on 65 million square feet of roofs of Southern California commercial buildings - enough power to serve approximately 162,000 homes.
FPL Energy Advances Solar Strategy; Plans to Build New Solar Electric Generating Facility in California
Mar 26, 2008 - Business Wire

FPL Energy, LLC, (NYSE:FPL) already the country's leading generator of wind and solar thermal power, announced today an important step in its strategy to add significantly to its solar power generating capability.
Study says solar's potential as high as 90%
Mar 5, 2008 - Power News

Ausra Inc., a developer of utility-scale solar thermal power technology, has announced a peer-reviewed study showing that over 90% of the U.S. electric grid and auto fleet's energy needs could be met by solar thermal power.
Move Over, Oil, There’s Money in Texas Wind
Feb 23, 2008 - Clifford Krauss - New York Times

Sweetwater, Tex. — The wind turbines that recently went up on Louis Brooks’s ranch are twice as high as the Statue of Liberty, with blades that span as wide as the wingspan of a jumbo jet. More important from his point of view, he is paid $500 a month apiece to permit 78 of them on his land, with 76 more on the way.
Oceanlinx to Provide Wave Energy for Maui
Feb 8, 2008 - RenewableEnergyAccess.com

Oceanlinx Limited, an Australia-based high-tech company, has formally announced plans to provide electricity to Maui Electric Company from Hawaii's first wave energy project. The project will provide up to 2.7 megawatts (MW) of energy from two to three floating platforms located one-half to three-quarters of a mile to the north of Pauwela Point on the northeast coast of Maui.
FERC approves incentive rates to accommodate renewable energy projects
Feb 8, 2008 - Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Documents and Publications/ContentWorks

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) today granted Xcel Energy Services, Inc.'s request for incentive transmission rates as part of its plan for six transmission upgrades to meet state renewable energy generation standards and serve increased power demand in the Upper Midwest.
Lassoing Panhandle Wind - Oilman Plans Huge Complex
Jan, 2008 - Gary Stern - energycentral.com

Boone Pickens is nobody's fool. Pickens, who has a net worth of $2.5 billion and is ranked as the 131st wealthiest person in the United States by Forbes, is not prone to invest in pipe dreams. Then why is Pickens, who runs BP Capital Management, a private equity firm, and Mesa Power, building a 4,000-megawatt wind energy facility in Pampa, Texas, in the Panhandle section about 70 miles from Amarillo, which could cost as much as $10 billion?
Increasing Renewable Energy in U.S. Can Solve Global Warming
Jan 24, 2007 - RenewableEnergyWorld.com

The alternative scenario in this report, which urgently calls for new policy and standards, corrects the record on nukes and coal.
U.S. Wind Power Surges 45%, Again Shatters Records - AWEA
Jan 21, 2008 - Wind Energy Weekly

Shattering all of its previous records, the U.S. wind energy industry installed 5,244 MW in 2007, expanding the nation’s total wind power generating capacity by 45% in a single calendar year and injecting an investment of over $9 billion into the economy, AWEA announced January 17.
Enel, GE Soar to New Heights at Texas Wind Farm with Tallest Turbine Towers in US
Jan 10, 2008 - Business Wire

SNYDER, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Enel SpA, through its subsidiary Enel North America, Inc., announced today the completion of a wind farm in Texas with the tallest utility-scale wind turbines in the United States as well as investments by an affiliate of GE Energy Financial Services, the energy investing unit of GE (NYSE: GE - News).
Idaho's First Geothermal Power Plant is Now Online
Jan 9, 2008 - EERE Network News

U.S. Geothermal Inc. achieved commercial operation last week at its new geothermal power plant in Raft River, Idaho, making it the first commercial geothermal power plant in the state. Ormat Nevada built the power plant, which began producing power during a test phase in late October 2007. After some mechanical tweaks, the plant was restarted on November 22, 2007, and has continued to produce power since then. As a result, Idaho Power Company declared that commercial power operations began on January 3. So far, the plant output is around 9 megawatts, but the company expects the plant to achieve an average annual net power output of 13 megawatts. The company currently has a contract to sell Idaho Power Company up to 10 megawatts of geothermal power, but is in the process of trying to renegotiate that contract for the full output of the geothermal power plant.
A Solar Grand Plan
Jan, 2008 - Ken Zweibel, James Mason and Vasilis Fthenakis - Scientific American Magazine

By 2050 solar power could end U.S. dependence on foreign oil and slash greenhouse gas emissions.
AFA researchers testing ocean waves for energy
Dec 31, 2007 - McClatchy-Tribune Regional News - Tom Roeder The Gazette, Colorado Springs, Colo.

Researchers at the Air Force Academy are developing an idea that could use ocean waves to meet much of the nation's energy needs.
Renewable Energy Growth Boosted in New "Annual Energy Outlook"
Dec 19, 2007 - EERE Network News

DOE's Energy Information Administration (EIA) is now projecting renewable energy to experience 23% faster growth between now and 2030 than previously anticipated. The EIA's latest "Annual Energy Outlook" foresees renewable energy providing 12.2 quadrillion Btu (quads) of energy by 2030, up from only 9.9 quads in last year's outlook. For comparison, total U.S. energy use was 100 quads in 2006 and is projected to increase to 123.8 quads by 2030. The EIA projections include hydropower, which is expected to increase from 2.89 quads in 2006 to 3 quads in 2015, staying level after that. In contrast, biomass energy is projected to increase from 2.97 quads in 2006 to 5.52 quads in 2030, an 86% increase, while "other renewable energy" is projected to increase from 0.88 quads in 2006 to 2.49 quads in 2030, a nearly threefold increase. And this is just the EIA's reference case, often characterized as the "business as usual" case; a full EIA report examining alternative scenarios will be released early in 2008.
PG&E agrees to buy power from Canadian firm's proposed 'wave park'
Dec 18, 2007 - David R. Baker - San Francisco Chronicle

The dream of generating electricity from the ocean's waves will take a major step forward today when Pacific Gas and Electric Co. announces its support for plans to build the nation's first commercial wave power plant off the coast of Northern California, the latest step in the state's efforts to combat global warming.
Experimental Wind-to-Hydrogen System Up and Running
Dec 14, 2006 - NREL Press Release

Xcel Energy (NYSE:XEL) and the U.S. Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Laboratory today unveiled a unique facility that uses electricity from wind turbines to produce and store pure hydrogen, offering what may become an important new template for future energy production.
FPL and NASA Join Forces to Explore Renewable Energy Projects
Dec 13, 2007 - Business Wire

From charting a clean energy future to trailblazing on the space frontier, they are respected leaders. Now Florida Power & Light Company and National Aeronautic and Space Administration's Kennedy Space Center (NASA-KSC) are teaming up to jointly explore developing renewable energy projects. FPL Group owns and operates the largest solar facility in the world and Florida Power & Light has the proven energy expertise in Florida. NASA has the top space science experts with extensive experience using solar technology in space. Together they hope to advance and deploy the use of large scale solar technology in Florida as early as 2008.
More Farmers Seeing Wind As Cash Crop
Dec 11, 2007 - Chicago Tribune

At a time when most people choose to avoid the harsh winter winds that roar past corn stubble and whip up billowing dust clouds over table-flat fields, farmers in the Thumb of Michigan now talk about catching the wind and all the money that comes with it.
Rethinking U.S. Foreign Aid - Make RE, Not War
November/December, 2007 - Frank Zaski - Solar today

For international security, foreign aid should include renewable energy and efficiency.
Fortis and BBVA to Lead $185 Million Senior Secured Financing for New 164 MW Wind Farm
Nov 30, 2007 - PRNewswire

NEW YORK - Fortis and BBVA, today announced that they have been selected to be Joint Bookrunners and Joint Lead Arrangers for a $185 million Senior Secured Financing that will support construction and operation of NedPower Mount Storm LLC (the "Project"), a new 164 MW wind farm in Grant County, West Virginia. Shell WindEnergy, a division of Royal Dutch Shell , one of the largest wind farm owners in the world, and Dominion one of the largest producers of energy in the U.S., are sponsoring the Project and will own it on a 50/50 basis. Fortis will also act as Administrative Agent and Security Agent for the Project.
Wind and Solar Energy: Renewable Energy to Create Thousands of New Jobs
Nov 26, 2007 - Business Wire

Rhone Resch, President of the Solar Energy Industries Association, and Randy Swisher, President of the American Wind Energy Association, guests at separate Executive News Roundtables sponsored by Energy Policy TV, said the renewable energy industries will be large creators of new jobs in the U.S. in the coming years. Videos of their appearances are available at no cost on Energy Policy TV's Solar and Wind Channels, respectively.
Nevada Geothermal Announces Large Generation Interconnection Agreement Signed With Sierra Pacific Power Company for Up to 75 MW
Nov 19, 2007 - MarketWire

Nevada Geothermal Power Inc. (NGP) (TSX VENTURE: NGP)(OTCBB: NGLPF) today announced that the Company has executed a Large Generator Interconnection Agreement (LGIA) with Sierra Pacific Power Company (SPPC). The LGIA covers up to 75 MW of new electric generation in two phases from the Blue Mountain Geothermal resource. The Agreement was the culmination of SPPC engineering studies which determined that interconnection to SPPC's electrical transmission grid was feasible and subsequent contract negotiations with NGP. The LGIA costs and schedule are in line with NGP's plans for the Blue Mountain Project and allows NGP to continue with development of Phase I and planning of Phase II power projects.
National Audubon Society Shows Support for Wind Power
Nov 13, 2006 - Wind Energy Weekly

National Audubon Society Shows Support for Wind Power Pointing to the link between global warming and the birds and other wildlife that scientists assert it will kill, the National Audubon Society said that it "strongly supports wind power as a clean alternative energy source."
Government of Canada Invests in Canada's Largest Wind Energy Project
Nov 8, 2007 - Marketwire

The Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Health and Minister for the Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario, was at the Prince Wind Energy Farm today to announce more than $53 million in funding, over ten years, for the largest wind energy project in Canada. Minister Clement, speaking on behalf of the Honourable Gary Lunn, Minister of Natural Resources, was joined by Mr. Harry Goldgut, Chairman and Co-Chief Executive Officer of Brookfield Power, to make the announcement.
Bush Administration Aims to Tap into Ocean's Wind Power
Nov 5, 2007 - The News & Observer

A year after a bitter congressional fight over offshore drilling for oil and gas, the Bush administration now wants to tap the ocean's winds, waves and currents as a source for alternative energy.
Green power purchases, state RES legislation to strain renewables supply--NREL
Oct 31, 2007 - Wind Energy Weekly

A recently released report from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) highlights a potential supply and demand mismatch in renewable energy in the coming years as a result of renewable energy certificate (RECs) purchases, utility green pricing program options, and state renewable electricity standards (RES).
Wind energy development a boon to rural areas - Wind farms spell big benefits for small towns (pdf)
Oct 25, 2006 - Canadian NewsWire

WINNIPEG, Manitoba – An increasing number of small rural communities, many facing economic challenges, are now tapping into one of Canada’s truly bountiful resource, wind, and reaping the benefits of harnessing a clean and renewable power source. Two new case studies released today by the Canadian Wind Energy Association (CanWEA) show that wind energy is helping to boost the economy of rural communities through local investments, job creation, land lease fees, new local tax revenues and tourism income.
Interstate Transmission Vision for Wind Integration (pdf)
Oct 9, 2007 - American Electric Power

American Electric Power, working at the request of, and in partnership with, the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA), presents a high-level, conceptual interstate transmission plan that could provide a basis for discussion to expand industry infrastructure needs in the future. AEP believes that expansion of Extra High Voltage (EHV) interstate transmission systems provides increased reliability, market efficiency, environmental optimization and national security for the benefit of electric customers across the United States.
Texas CREZ Plan Could Become National Model
Oct 8, 2007 - Wind Energy Weekly

The Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) on October 2 issued an interim final order in its high-profile "CREZ" case, designating five"Competitive Renewable Energy Zones" in West Texas and the Texas Panhandle and authorizing development of transmission lines needed to deliver electricity produced in those windy areas to customers throughout Texas.
Cost for geothermal, other renewable energies
Aug 4, 2007 - The Associated Press

Hot rock heat mining could provide energy at competitive prices, according to a recent study by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Five solar plants scheduled to come on line
Aug 3, 2007 - McClatchy-Tribune Regional News

Every couple years or so, someone announces the "world's largest solar plant" for the Mojave Desert, where clouds rarely block the sun. Why, then, is Victorville moving forward with a large natural gas-fired plant that has a small solar component?
Business sees green in energy savings
Jul 20, 2007 - MONICA HATCHER - MiamiHerald.com

In the effort to clean the atmosphere of toxic carbon pollution, business leaders meeting Friday at the Summit on Global Climate Change seemed to agree that going green means more of the green stuff in the future. ''What's good for the environment is good for business,'' said Lorraine Bolsinger, a vice president with GE, who spoke along with business representatives on two panels at the summit that ends later Friday.
PG&E, San Francisco and Golden Gate Energy Combine Efforts to Explore Tidal Power Options in SF Bay
Jun 19, 2007 - PRNewswire

In support of ongoing efforts to increase California's renewable power supplies and address climate change, Pacific Gas and Electric Company today signed an agreement with the City and County of San Francisco and the Golden Gate Energy Company to conduct the most comprehensive study yet undertaken to assess the possibilities for harnessing the tides in San Francisco Bay to create a new source of zero- emissions, renewable electric power for California energy customers.
Tax Credits, Transmission Lines Considered Key For Wind Farms
May 14, 2007 - By Dirk Lammers - The Associated Press

SIOUX FALLS, S.D Companies looking to build large wind farms and the electrical transmission lines to carry the power need more stable tax credits if they're to invest in the alternative energy source, a Department of Energy official said Monday.
Companies Pursing Ocean Power along the Northern U.S. Shores
May 2, 2007

EERE Network News - Judging by recent permitting activity, there is a great deal of interest in developing wave and tidal energy projects in northern coastal areas of the United States. ORPC Alaska, a subsidiary of Ocean Renewable Power Corporation, LLC (ORPC), announced in late April that it received preliminary permits from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to pursue tidal energy projects in Alaska's Cook Inlet and Resurrection Bay. The company has a ways to go, though, as it plans to build a prototype tidal energy turbine device next year and build a full-scale prototype in 2009 before developing the Alaska sites. Finavera Renewables Inc. has a greater chance of developing its proposed site near Coos County, Oregon, since it already has a working prototype of its AquaBuoy wave energy converter. Finavera's subsidiary, AquaEnergy Group Ltd., was awarded a preliminary permit on Monday for its proposed 100-megawatt wave energy plant. Oceanlinx Limited, formerly known as Energetech, is also interested in the Oregon coast, and has applied for a preliminary permit for a site near Florence. Oceanlinx plans to build a 15-megawatt wave energy plant at the site.
Transmission Loop to Bring 4,200 MW of Wind Energy to Texas
Feb 19, 2007 - renewableenergyaccess.com

A consortia backed by Airtricity has committed to the construction of a 345-kilovolt (kV) transmission 'loop' in the Texas Panhandle Plains region: The $1.5 billion 'Panhandle Loop' will be a 800-mile 'looped' transmission project bringing 4,200 megawatt (MW) of wind energy to more than one million homes.
Massive hydroelectric project could help with climate change
Feb 6, 2007 - Associated Press

Newfoundland Premier Danny Williams cast himself as an environmental champion Tuesday, saying the proposed Lower Churchill hydroelectric development could help Canada dramatically reduce its greenhouse gas emissions.
Energy needs more money in U.S., says federal agency
Jan 24, 2007 - Refocus

In 2005, the United States derived 6% of its energy from renewables, the same level as in 1973, according to an analysis by the Government Accountability Office.
Study: Geothermal energy could meet large part of U.S. power need
Jan 23, 2007 - The Associated Press

The nation could generate a large part of the electricity it will need in the future by tapping the enormous amounts of heat energy locked up in hard rock below the earth's surface, a new Massachusetts Institute of Technology-led study indicated Monday.
State report touts solar energy's bright future
Jan 20, 2007 - Tribune Business News

Arizona could generate up to 1,000 megawatts of solar electricity and create 3,000 jobs by 2020 by supporting solar-energy technologies and boosting the state's solar-electric industry, a state report says.
Wind Energy Center requires transmission line
Jan 6, 2007 - McClatchy-Tribune Regional News - Kevin Bonham Grand Forks Herald, N.D.

The $250 million Langdon Wind Energy Center near here could not begin to deliver wind energy throughout eastern North Dakota and northwestern Minnesota without a new $10 million transmission line.
Canada's cutting-edge energy model
Dec 21, 2006 - The Christian Science Monitor

ELMIRA, PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND - If you want a glimpse of this province's energy future, drive the winding country roads to its eastern tip, take a left at the sign for the village of Elmira, and follow the red dirt track to the right. You can't miss it. Ten wind turbines stand along the trail, each 26 stories tall, with blades as long as 125 feet. When workers finish the last one this month, the new Eastern Kings Wind Farm will generate 30 megawatts of electricity - 7.5 percent of the province's power - by harnessing the strong winds that buffet the island's northern shore.
EPA Challenges Fortune 500 to Double Use of Green Power
Dec 4, 2006 - GreenBiz.com

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is asking Fortune 500 companies double their current level of green power purchasing.
Berkeley Lab Study Finds No Widespread Impact of Wind Power Projects on Surrounding Residential Property Values in the U.S.
Dec 2, 2009 - Berkeley Lab

Over 30,000 megawatts of wind energy capacity are installed across the United States and an increasing number of communities are considering new wind power facilities. Given these developments, there is an urgent need to empirically investigate typical community concerns about wind energy and thereby provide stakeholders involved in the wind project siting process a common base of knowledge. A major new report released today by the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory evaluates one of those concerns, and finds that proximity to wind energy facilities does not have a pervasive or widespread adverse effect on the property values of nearby homes.
U.S. think tank extols benefits of renewables
Nov 22, 2006 - Refocus Weekly

Switching the U.S. economy to run on renewable energies could save money and reduce pollution, with visible benefits within a decade, says a national think tank.
Report: Renewables Could Create Tens of Thousands of Jobs
Nov 14, 2006 - Wind Energy Weekly

The manufacturing of renewables components such as wind turbines and solar panels could create 42,000 new jobs in Pennsylvania and 23,000 new jobs in Ohio if the right federal and state incentives are put in place, according to two studies released by the Apollo Alliance. In addition, the studies found, thousands of firms in each state could benefit from the expanded manufacturing activity.
Hydropower and Other Renewables: Best Source of Electricity for Canadians Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Oct 31, 2006 - Minister Lunn - Canada NewsWire

"Using additional hydropower capacity could make a substantial contribution to reducing greenhouse gases and air pollution both in the United States and here at home," said federal minister of Natural Resources Gary Lunn, addressing delegates at the seventh Forum on Hydropower. "However, action on regulatory efficiency is essential to ensure the continued development of hydropower and other renewables."
U.S. coalition wants renewables to provide 50% of electricity
Oct 25, 2006 - Refocus Weekly

More than 150 organizations and businesses from 38 states have endorsed the 'Sustainable Energy Blueprint' for the United States. The policy document was developed by member groups of the Sustainable Energy Coalition to outline "a plausible strategy and timeframe for rapidly expanding the use of energy efficient and renewable energy technologies to enable a dramatic reduction in greenhouse gases, while simultaneously phasing out nuclear power and ending most energy imports," explains co-ordinator Ken Bossong.
Schwarzenegger Signs Legislation to Complete Million Solar Roofs Plan

More panels, cleaner power goal of project
Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger yesterday signed a bill that completes his "million solar roofs plan," a move he says will put California on the cutting edge of renewable energy while also boosting the economy.

CanWEA applauds Ontario's call for transmission investments to support wind energy
Jun 13, 2006 - newswire.ca

The Canadian Wind Energy Association (CanWEA) is pleased that the Ontario Government's "Integrated Power System Plan Directive" to the Ontario Power Authority today called for strengthening the transmission system to facilitate the development and use of wind energy where the most significant development opportunities exist. Specifically, the need for expanded transmission capacity from Bruce County and surrounding area was identified as a priority.

McGuinty Government Approves New Green Power Projects Eight New Wind Projects And One Hydro Project Enough To Power 250,000 Homes
Nov 21, 2005 - Toronto, Ontario, Canada

QUEEN'S PARK - The McGuinty government has approved nine clean, renewable energy projects that will provide enough power for more than 250,000 homes, Energy Minister Donna Cansfield announced today.
Rooftops Could Support Vast U.S. Market for Solar Power (pdf)
Mar 1, 2005 - The Energy Foundation

A new study released today by the Energy Foundation, and undertaken by Navigant Consulting, Inc. (NYSE:NCI), describes the vast market potential for rooftop solar photovoltaic systems (PV) in the United States. The study, “PV Grid Connected Market Potential in 2010 Under a Cost Breakthrough Scenario,” provides an estimate of the market for PV systems in the United States based on available rooftop space for residential and commercial solar PV.

Related GENI Resources

Definition Wind Energy

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Links

IREC Connecting to the Grid (Interstate Renewable Energy Council)
CIGRE: International Congress on Large High-Voltage Electric Systems
IEEE/PES International Practices Committee panel sessions

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Updated: 2020/01/21

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