The Connexion Green Scene http://www.connexiones.com Chicago area energy news and midwest regional and national energy trends.The Green Scene is your conneXion between Energy News and Business Solutions Landmark standards will boost energy management systems http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10265 Fri, 18 May 2012 14:16:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10265 Organizations/companies of any size or industry can follow ISO 50001 to plan, manage, and measure energy performance. Using this systematic approach to energy efficiency and energy consumption also encourages continual improvement in management and other processes. Companies that are inclined to embrace the process typically share one or more of the following characteristics...

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]]> ASHRAE Government Affairs Update, 5/18/2012 http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10276 Fri, 18 May 2012 12:18:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10276 Applications Now Being Accepted for the ASHRAE-DOE Fellowship
ASHRAE is sponsoring a 12 month fellowship program with placement at the U.S. Department of Energy in the Office of Building Technologies, Building Energy Codes Program. This fellowship will enable a selected ASHRAE member to assist DOE in the following code development and deployment activities:
 
  • Residential and Commercial Code R&D
  • Developing Code Change Proposals and Participating in the ASHRAE and ICC Code Revision Processes
  • Code Compliance & Energy Code Training
  • Developing and Implementing Tools and Training Programs Aimed at Increasing Compliance
  • Assessment of the Impact of Adopting and Updating State Energy Codes
  • Performing Analysis of Energy Savings and Cost Effectiveness of Proposed Code Revisions and Published Codes
The Department will consider candidates for 12 months of work in these areas with the possibility of an extension for a second year. A stipend of $74,872/year will be provided (this amount is before taxes, federal income taxes must be paid on this stipend). Health insurance reimbursement will be provided up to the rate of $500 per month, with any monthly costs over that being paid for by the fellow. 
 
 
Ideal candidates will have a technical background, with 3-10 years experience in the building industry, as this is an early career development opportunity. This fellowship will require reporting in-person to the DOE offices in Washington, DC on a daily basis (40-hour workweek).  Applications are now being accepted for this open position. The fellowship can begin as soon as a suitable candidate is selected by DOE.
 
 
Federal government fellowships provide a valuable public service to the nation while at the same time providing engineers and scientists with a unique opportunity to participate directly in the policy making process. This enriching experience enables fellows to bring back to their employers an insider's perspective on government decision making that can contribute significantly to the mission and vision of the organization.
 
 
ASHRAE members interested in applying for the fellowship should contact Doug Read, ASHRAE's Director of Government Affairs, (202) 833-1830, dread@ashrae.org.
 
 
 
High-Performance Building Week Celebrated in Washington, DC
High-Performance Building Week is being celebrated this week in Washington, DC. Events held thus far have included:
  • Green Roof Tour and Reception
  • Congressional Briefing on How High-Performance Buildings Keep Americans Safe, Grow the Economy, and Protect the Environment
  • Reception for the Leadership Towards High-Performance Awards
  • Dialogue Meeting on Building Performance Metrics and Benchmarking
  • Congressional Briefing on How Information and Communications Technology Enable Energy Savings in Buildings
 
Additional information, including event presentations, will soon be posted at www.hpbccc.org/hpb2012week.php.
 
 
High-Performance Building Week is organized by the High Performance Building Congressional Caucus Coalition (HPBCCC), which is comprised of over 100 building community stakeholders, and is dedicated to heightening awareness and informing policymakers about the major impact that buildings have on our health, safety, and welfare, and the opportunities to design, construct, and operate high-performance buildings. ASHRAE serves as Chair of the HPBCCC. Additional information on the HPBCCC can be found at www.hpbccc.org. 
 
 
 
Leadership Towards High-Performance Award Given to Chair of Standard 189.1 Committee, Dennis Stanke
The Leadership Towards High-Performance Award is given to individuals who demonstrate a strong commitment to high-performance buildings. This year’s award was given to Dennis Stanke, for his work as chair of the committee overseeing ANSI/ASHRAE/USGBC/IES Standard 189.1 Standard for the Design of High-Performance, Green Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings. Standard 189.1 is a compliance option with the International Code Council’s (ICC) International Green Construction Code (IgCC).
 
 
The award was concurrently given to Ravi Shah, who chaired ICC’s Sustainability Building Technology Committee, and whose work was critical to the development of the IgCC.
 
 
To view ASHRAE’s press release on the award, please visit http://ow.ly/aYFi5.
 
 
 
ICC Foundation Presents Building Safety Month
This month is Building Safety Month – a public awareness campaign that highlights the need for adopting and enforcing updated building codes, while encouraging support for the building codes workforce.
 
 
Building Safety Month is presented by the International Code Council through its Foundation. Additional information can be found at www2.icc-foundation.org/bsm.
]]> This Week at EIA - 05/18/2012 http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10275 Fri, 18 May 2012 10:50:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10275 REGULARLY SCHEDULED WEEKLY RELEASES:
 
Gasoline and Diesel Fuel Update (5/14/2012)
Presents average weekly retail on-highway diesel fuel prices for the U.S., 8 regions, and the State of California and average weekly retail gasoline prices at the national and regional levels, and for selected cities and States.
 
The Coal News and Markets Report for week ended 5/11/2012 (5/14/2012)
Contains information for the week and spot prices:
 
This Week in Petroleum (5/16/2012)
Provides analysis, data, and charts of the latest weekly petroleum supply and price data.
 
Weekly Petroleum Status Report, Data for Week Ending 5/11/2012 (5/16/2012)
Contains timely information on supply and selected prices of crude oil and principal petroleum products in the context of historical data and forecasts.
 
Weekly Natural Gas Storage Report (5/17/2012)
Contains weekly estimates of natural gas in underground storage for the United States and three regions of the United States.
 
Natural Gas Weekly Update (5/17/2012)
Contains weekly updates of natural gas market prices, latest storage level estimates, recent lower 48 NOAA weather data, and other market activity or events.
 
Coal Production for Week Ended 5/12/2012 (5/17/2012)
Contains an overview of U.S. weekly coal production.
 

OTHER RELEASES THIS WEEK:
 
Global generation capacity for nuclear power has grown to over 346 gigawatts since 1955 (05/17/2012)
Nuclear generating capacity additions began in the 1950s and now top 346 gigawatts worldwide. The first nuclear reactor to produce electricity was a very small U.S. experimental reactor in 1951. Currently, 30 countries have nuclear power programs.
 
Wholesale Market Data (05/17/2012)
Spreadsheets contain peak prices, volumes, and the number of transactions at ten electricity trading hubs covering most regions of the United States. Data from ICE (IntercontinentalExchange) through May 11, 2012.
 
Natural gas consumption reflects shifting sectoral patterns(05/16/2012)
U.S. natural gas consumption since 1997 reflects shifting patterns. Total U.S. natural gas consumption rose 7% between 1997 and 2011, but this modest growth masks bigger changes in individual sectors. Electric power is now the largest natural gas consuming sector and it shows perhaps the greatest sensitivity to price changes.
 
Domestic Uranium Production Report - Quarterly (05/16/2012)
First quarter 2012 update of uranium production in the United States and operating status of U.S. uranium mills and plants.
 
Participation in electric net-metering programs increased sharply in recent years (05/15/2012)
Electricity consumers are participating in net-metering programs in growing numbers. When individuals or businesses install small, typically renewable, onsite generators (such as a rooftop solar system), they can usually enter into a net-metering agreement with their utility. Between 2003 and 2010, the average annual growth in customer participation was 56%, with a 61% increase between 2009 and 2010. While participation is increasing, electric customers with net-metering represented only 0.1% of all customers in 2010.
 
State electric retail choice programs are popular with commercial and industrial customers (05/14/2012)
Seventeen states and the District of Columbia have adopted electric retail choice programs that allow end-use customers to buy electricity from competitive retail suppliers. While residential customer participation rates are low in almost all of these states, a majority of commercial customers have signed up with competitive suppliers in 9 states and a majority of industrial customers have signed up in 12 states.
 
State Energy Data System: Noncombustible Renewable Energy Through 2010 (05/11/2012)
Annual State-level estimates of consumption for hydroelectric power, as well as wind, geothermal, and solar energy.
 
EIA provides new information on planned natural gas pipelines and storage facilities (05/11/2012)
On May 10, 2012, EIA published new information on planned additions to natural gas pipeline capacity and natural gas storage facilities. EIA is planning to update this information quarterly.
 
OPEC Revenues Fact Sheet (05/10/2012)
Based on projections from the EIA May 2012 Short-Term Energy Outlook(STEO), members of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) could earn an estimated $1,154 billion of net oil export revenues in 2012 and $1,117 billion in 2013.
 
Over the past decade, lighting became more efficient across all sectors (05/10/2012)
The Department of Energy (DOE) recently released a study of the 2010 lighting market, finding that lighting across all sectors became more energy efficient since their study of the 2001 lighting market. The residential sector, which accounted for 25% of total lighting energy consumption in 2010, remained the least energy efficient of the sectors, primarily due to the use of incandescent lamps.
]]> Brightsource IPO Failure an Omen for Solar Industry http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10274 Fri, 18 May 2012 07:45:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10274 Not too long ago, the prospects for BrightSource seemed so limitless that the company incorporated the word into its logo. It had raised tens of millions of dollars from leading venture capitalists, struck partnerships with corporations like Google...

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]]> China adds quotas for rare earth exports http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10270 Fri, 18 May 2012 07:27:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10270 BEIJING - The Ministry of Commerce announced Thursday additional export quotas for rare earth minerals totaling 10,680 tons. Of the added quotas, 9,490 tons were light rare earths, and 1,190 tons were medium and heavy rare earths, a statement on the MOC website said...

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See also:
China Allows More Exports of Rare-Earth Minerals

China Issues Additional Rare Earth Export Quota

China Expands Export Quota of Rare Earths

]]> Argonne, universities partner to design advanced materials http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10269 Fri, 18 May 2012 07:23:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10269 The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Argonne National Laboratory announced major new efforts with Northwestern University and the University of Chicago to advance the research and development of new materials to help solve the nation’s challenges in the fields of energy, health, and security. The aim of the collaborations is to strengthen Chicago’s regional “innovation ecosystem” by linking experts in every aspect of advanced materials science and providing them with direct access to the world’s most advanced tools for materials discovery and characterization...

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]]> 31 Percent Anti-Dumping Tariffs Announced for Chinese Solar Panels http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10267 Fri, 18 May 2012 06:27:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10267 The U.S. Department of Commerce on Thursday announced stiff anti-dumping tariffs of around 31 percent on crystalline silicon solar panels imported from China, leading to a new round of concerns on how the duties will impact the growing American solar industry...

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]]> How to handle power factor correction claims http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10264 Fri, 18 May 2012 06:13:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10264 Power factor correction is nothing new. Electric utility companies have been correcting poor system power factor with capacitors for many decades. The devices marketed to facility owners to improve power factor are not mysterious, although the way they are advertised can make them seem that way. There are several types of power factor correction equipment in the marketplace today...

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]]> Coal plant closures could send electricity costs soaring http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10258 Thu, 17 May 2012 15:27:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10258 Residential electricity prices are expected to spike by more than 10 percent beginning in 2015, with consumers paying between $150 and $330 a year more than this year, as coal plants, the least expensive producers of electricity, continue to close...

Read the full Chicago Tribune Story

]]> SWITCH Lighting Brings Liquid-Cooled LED Replacement A-Lamps to the Hospitality Industry http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10238 Thu, 17 May 2012 14:00:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10238 SWITCH Lighting(TM), the first company to offer a full range of true LED replacements to incandescent and compact fluorescent lamps (CFL), is receiving great feedback from hotels and restaurants about their highly-anticipated LED A-lamps. SWITCH is offering liquid-cooled LED A-lamps that can be used in any fixture, any orientation, anywhere--indoors and out. The full line includes 40, 60, 75, and 100 watt-equivalents, with the latest addition of the first-ever 3-Way LED lamp. Named SWITCH3-Way...

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]]> Where to save energy costs in your business http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10235 Thu, 17 May 2012 13:46:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10235 To satisfy your soda fix, that 400-watt soda vending machine might cost the company more than $500 a year to operate. If your lunch room has a standard-size refrigerator, there's another $400 or so annually. Then, there's the worker whose cubicle gets icy cold. On goes the space heater — a considerable energy hog at more than $400 a year per 1,500-watt unit — for the first six months of the year...

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]]> Delta Products Corporation Awarded Department of Energy Grant to Streamline Development of EV Charging Smart Grid Infrastructure http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10236 Thu, 17 May 2012 12:51:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10236 Delta Products Corporation, a Delta Group company, headquartered in Fremont, CA, has been awarded a $1.9 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), for the development and demonstration of a residential electric vehicle charging system with smart grid communication capabilities. The smart-charging system will allow utilities to reduce infrastructure costs and manage load during peak hours. The system will benefit consumers by taking advantage of off-peak electricity rates for electric vehicle charging...

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]]> Legrand Cuts Energy Use by 20 Percent, Beating DOE Goal by 8 Years http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10256 Thu, 17 May 2012 12:15:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10256 Legrand has reduced its energy use by more than 20 percent, in its first year participating in the Department of Energy’s Building Buildings initiative. In 2011, Legrand used more energy-efficient lighting for manufacturing and office facilities, fixed air leaks and installed insulation. Its next goal is to implement...

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]]> Pickens: Ready to run on domestic energy http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10233 Thu, 17 May 2012 11:35:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10233 Pickens is pushing “The Pickens Plan” to develop a U.S. energy plan that moves the country to energy independence. What’s at stake Pickens says is whether the United States will regain control of the world’s wealth and economic power, something that would “change the dynamics of the world,” he says...

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]]> EPA Expands ENERGY STAR Scope of MET Laboratories to Include Lighting Categories http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10240 Thu, 17 May 2012 11:17:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10240 Testing and certification organization MET Laboratories has received recognition from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as a Certification Body (CB) for Luminaires (including sub-components), Integral LED Lamps and Set-Top and Cable Boxes under the ENERGY STAR® program. The EPA recognition establishes MET as an independent third-party eligible to certify products to ENERGY STAR energy efficiency requirements for these categories...

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]]> U.S. Remains Dependent on China for Rare Earth Elements http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10243 Thu, 17 May 2012 09:16:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10243 The U.S. military is almost completely dependent on China for the rare earth elements that go into everything from batteries to precision-guided bombs, according to a report by the Congressional Research Service...

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]]> ComEd Announced Two New Smart Initiatives http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10242 Thu, 17 May 2012 09:13:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10242 ComEd has introduced two new initiatives to improve communications, coordination, and storm response: a new interactive online outage map and a new mobile application for smart phones. The color-coded map allows customers to easily find information on the location and size of outages and get estimated power restoration times...

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]]> NanoMarkets Announces Upcoming Report "LED Phosphor Markets - 2012" Set for May 2012 Release http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10241 Thu, 17 May 2012 09:07:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10241 Industry analyst firm NanoMarkets today has announced the addition of a new report to its publication schedule titled LED Phosphor Markets - 2012 (Nano-541) that will be released the week of May 28th. The report is available at pre-publication rates through May 29th. For additional information about the report people can visit the NanoMarkets website...

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]]> Market Research Forecasts U.S. Lighting Fixtures Market at $25 Billion by 2016 http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10239 Thu, 17 May 2012 09:02:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10239 MarketResearch.com has announced the addition of the new report "Lighting Fixtures," to their collection of Lighting & LED Market market reports. Demand for lighting fixtures in the US is projected to increase 7.4 percent annually to $25.1 billion in 2016. This represents a recovery from the declines posted between 2006 and 2011, as both motor vehicle production and construction activity recover from low 2011 levels...

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]]> Chicago's Little Green Tree House Celebrates Three Years as the First Green Early Childhood Education Center with a Renovated Playground http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10237 Thu, 17 May 2012 08:57:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10237 Forging new ground as Chicago’s inaugural green day care center, in July, 2009, The Little Green Tree House offers a unique and collaborative curriculum mixing best education practices with eco-conscious, conversation-based focus. Located in the West Loop neighborhood at 118 S. Ashland, the early childhood education center’s teachers nurture each child’s potential, strengthening their future as well as the future of the world...

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]]> Finelite Receives Prestigious Recognition from U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Next Generation Luminaires Solid State Lighting (SSL) Design Competition http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10234 Thu, 17 May 2012 08:39:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10234 Finelite Inc., a leading manufacturer of high performance lighting systems, has been recognized as a winner of the 2012 Next Generation Luminaires (NGL) Indoor Design SSL Competition announced May 10th at LIGHTFAIR International in Las Vegas, Nevada. "This award recognizes our solid state lighting achievements for the High Performance Recessed LED (HPR-LED) Collection and we are honored," said Jane White, Vice President of Sales and Marketing who accepted the award on Finelite's behalf...

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]]> Regency Centers Receives LEED Certifications in North Carolina and Illinois http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10232 Thu, 17 May 2012 08:32:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10232 Regency Centers, a national owner, operator and developer of grocery-anchored and community shopping centers, announced that buildings at two of its shopping centers in North Carolina and Illinois have received LEED(R) Silver established by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). The certified projects are Market at Colonnade, a 57,637-square-foot ground-up infill center anchored by Whole Foods Market in Raleigh, N.C., and the 51,298-square-foot Mariano's Fresh Market at Roscoe Square, the company's first LEED-certified redevelopment, a 140,461-square-foot neighborhood center in Chicago, Illinois...

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]]> NJ Solar Farm Said To Be Biggest East Of Mississippi http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10231 Thu, 17 May 2012 08:29:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10231 The official dedication took place recently for a 12.5 megawatt (MW) solar farm in New Jersey, the biggest solar project of its kind east of the Mississippi, according to its owners. Built by Chicago-based Lincoln Renewable Energy (LRE), the NJ Oak solar project is located in Cumberland County and consists of approximately 53,000 solar panels constructed on a 100-acre site...

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]]> Chicago ideal for renewable energies, international experts say http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10230 Thu, 17 May 2012 08:27:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10230 Chicago is an ideal location for wind turbines and solar energy plants, according to international energy experts who converged Tuesday at Northwestern University. Experts at the Global Landscape for Cleantech and Climate Change Conference discussed...

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]]> Already time to recharge? http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10229 Thu, 17 May 2012 08:22:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10229 From iPhones and laptops to electric vehicles, much of our plugged-in lifestyle seems tied to finding a suitable wall outlet. Yet consumer frustration has only grown as each new device drains batteries ever more quickly. Perhaps it's not surprising, then, that the phrase "ihatebatterylow" has become a big hit on Facebook and Twitter...

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]]> Fuel cells, sidelined but not forgotten at electric vehicle show http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10228 Thu, 17 May 2012 08:18:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10228 As the spotlight has shifted to battery-powered cars, other promising alternative fuels have been left in the dark. That's especially true for yesterday's transportation stars, fuel-cell vehicles. But that doesn't mean progress has stopped...

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]]> Northern IL Suburban Power Roundup: May 2012 http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10227 Thu, 17 May 2012 08:03:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10227 Lake Zurich contracts with new electric supplier
A 2011 Illinois Commerce Commission decision allows alternative energy suppliers to bill through ComEd, deregulating the electric supply market. That year, 19 municipalities across the state switched suppliers. Many more are expected to negotiate rates ...


Montgomery will try for lower electric rates
... a measure to go with the Northern Illinois Municipal Electric Cooperative (NIMEC) to obtain electricity bids for residents. Some 140 other communities in Illinois have banded together to obtain volume pricing from providers other than ComEd.


West Dundee gets closer to finding cheaper electricity
The village has hired the Northern Illinois Municipal Electric Collaborative (NIMEC) as a consultant to help obtain those lower rates. By soliciting bids from power suppliers to see if municipalities can beat the ComEd rate, residents could see a 20 ...

First Energy OK'd for 2-years
The Village consulted with Sharon Durling, a marketing consultant with the Northern Illinois Municipal Electric Collaborative, in arranging for the bidding, and she will assist the Village in establishing the program for residents and small businesses ...

New Lake Zurich Electric Supplier Expected to Cut Bills by 30 to 35%
Several municipalities worked with the Northern Illinois Municipal Electric Collaborative (NIMEC) to pool resources and buying power. After reviewing bids, Lake Zurich selected First Energy for a two-year contract at 4.75 cents per kilowatt hour (kwh)...

Nordic Energy Awarded Hinsdale, IL Electricity Contract
The RFP process was overseen by the Northern Illinois Municipal Electric Cooperative (NIMEC) and included multiple bids. "I'm so pleased with the bid results and look forward to our relationship with Nordic in bringing the residents of Hinsdale ...

Lake Zurich selects First Energy
Several municipalities worked with Northern Illinois Municipal Electric Collaborative (NIMEC) to go out for bid. After reviewing the bids, Lake Zurich selected First Energy for a two-year agreement at a rate of 4.75 cents per kilowatt hour. ComEd's ...

Libertyville residents will save 44 percent on electricity under deal with new ...
By Amy Alderman Chicago Tribune reporter Yesterday at 2:42 pm Libertyville residents will save 44 percent on electricity with the village's switch from Commonwealth Edison to a new energy provider, First Energy Solutions of Akron, Ohio, according to ...

Trustees Approve Electric Aggregation Plan
So now the village will work with the Northern Illinois Municipal Electric Collaborative to find the cheapest electric rate available. Every resident in the village, and every small business in the 0-100kW range will be included in the bid, ...

]]> Solar FIT Fallout: Germany's Environment Minister Forced Out http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10223 Thu, 17 May 2012 06:56:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10223 The European shake-up continues as Germany's powerful Minister of the Environment Norbert Roettgen was fired Thursday as Chancellor Angela Merkel looks to hold onto power following her party's regional election loss over the weekend...

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]]> 3M Technology Enables Ultra Low Power All-in-One Smart Zero Client from HP http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10222 Thu, 17 May 2012 06:53:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10222 3M Optical Systems Division today announced that it has enabled a new zero client, the HP t410 All-in-One Smart Zero Client, which operates within 13 Watts of power. Leveraging its Dual Brightness Enhancement Film for LED backlight monitors, 3M has enabled the first all-in-one zero client capable of being powered by Type 1 PoE (IEEE 802.3af). This eliminates the need for AC power cords and consumes as much as 78 percent less power than a standard desktop...

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]]> Solar3D CEO Invited To Speak Before Congressional Subcommittee http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10221 Thu, 17 May 2012 06:49:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10221 Solar3D, Inc. (OTCBB: SLTD) the developer of a breakthrough 3-dimensional solar cell technology to maximize the conversion of sunlight into electricity, today announced that Jim Nelson, the company’s CEO, has been invited to testify before the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform in a hearing that will be held on Wednesday, May 16...

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]]> QUINN: America needs a competitive energy standard http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10220 Thu, 17 May 2012 06:47:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10220 Few issues capture and hold the attention of Congress and the administration as energy does, and yet an agreement on energy policy appears as distant today as it has been at any time in recent years...

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]]> The cost of green buildings: is the cost gap closing? http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10219 Thu, 17 May 2012 06:42:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10219 Does a green building cost less to create and maintain than a conventional building? The General Services Administration (GSA) says yes.  An in-depth study of 22 green federal buildings across the U.S. showed that on average, the representative buildings chosen from GSA’s portfolio...

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]]> FTC Cracks Down on "Seriously" Exaggerated Window Claims http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10218 Thu, 17 May 2012 06:39:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10218 If you’ve ever wondered just what a product guaranteeing “up to 50 percent savings” will deliver, you have something in common with the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC). FTC has reached a settlement with five manufacturers of replacement windows, part of a larger effort to rein in deceptive claims in environmental marketing...

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]]> Report:: Real-Time Feedback Encourages Electricity Savings http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10217 Thu, 17 May 2012 06:36:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10217 A new report from the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, “Results from Recent Real-Time Feedback Studies,” summarizes the findings of nine large-scale pilot studies testing the effects of real-time feedback on electricity consumption...

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]]> LEED 2012: Analysis of the 4th Public Comment Draft http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10216 Thu, 17 May 2012 06:32:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10216 With a special fourth public comment period, USGBC is now—through May 28—seeking input on the latest changes to the LEED 2012 family of rating systems. Only credits that have changed significantly since the 3rd public comment draft are open for comments this time. If you haven’t been paying attention, it’s time to wake up, because LEED 2012 is by far the most fundamental revamping of LEED in its history...

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]]> LED lighting products dominate Lightfair 2012 http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10202 Thu, 17 May 2012 02:32:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10202 We witnessed an abundance of outdoor LED street-light and area fixtures at Lightfair International 2012. For example, Schreder Lighting introduced the Piano family of street lights and also Focal fixtures for outdoor public spaces including athletic fields and landscape lighting applications...

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]]> Solar industry, utilities clash over proposal to change the way "net metering" is calculated http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10210 Wed, 16 May 2012 17:07:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10210 A controversial proposal by California Public Utilities Commission president Michael Peevey to change the way that "net metering" is calculated is the latest skirmish in the war between the state's largest utilities and the fast-growing rooftop solar industry...

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]]> U.S. Solar Manufacturers Opposed to Solar Tariffs http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10209 Wed, 16 May 2012 15:03:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10209 Manufacturers including Dow Corning and Hemlock Semiconductor, GT Advanced Technologies, MEMC, REC Silicon, and Suntech America, believe that free trade and global competition are good for the American solar industry and American jobs. The companies represent over 3,000 American jobs in every major region of the country, including states such as Arizona, California, Michigan, Montana, New Hampshire, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas and Washington...

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]]> Next Generation Luminaires competition recognizes LED indoor products http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10201 Wed, 16 May 2012 14:29:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10201 Fifty-three commercial LED indoor lighting products have been recognized for excellence by the fourth annual Next Generation Luminaires (NGL) Solid-State Lighting (SSL) design competition. The competition began evaluating indoor and outdoor products separately in 2012, and the outdoor results will be announced later this year...

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]]> New Energy Efficiency Standards for Residential Clothes Washers and Dishwashers to Save Consumers Billions on Energy Bills http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10198 Wed, 16 May 2012 12:06:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10198 As part of the Obama Administration's focus on taking sensible steps to save families money while also reducing energy consumption, the Department of Energy today announced common-sense energy efficiency standards for residential clothes washers and dishwashers that will save consumers $20 billion in energy and water costs.

The new standards for both clothes washers and dishwashers were informed by important feedback from manufacturers, consumer groups, and environmental advocates, producing significant savings while retaining consumer choice. The clothes washers standard announced today will save households approximately $350 over the lifetime of the appliance, while offering consumers a variety of more efficient machine choices, and as a result of the standards for dishwashers, home dishwashers will use approximately 15% less energy and more than 20% less water, directly providing consumers with savings on monthly bills.

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]]> Getting Started with Sustainable Operations in Hospitals http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10196 Wed, 16 May 2012 10:34:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10196 Getting started with sustainable operations is not necessarily a walk in the park. Maybe you have been asked to “green” your facility by upper management but you are not sure where to begin or what to do. Or maybe you are upper management and you want to provide good direction to your team to get going with sustainable operations. Either way, the first steps in the process are critical to establishing momentum and getting started in the right direction...

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]]> NREL Model Improves Predictions of Shade Effects on Solar PV http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10195 Wed, 16 May 2012 10:22:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10195 Using microinverters instead of typical string inverters can improve solar panels’ performance in shade by more than 12 percent, according to a new National Renewable Energy Laboratory test procedure, which the lab says greatly improves the accuracy of predictions about shade effects...

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PDF Download Download the NREL Report

]]> Energy Department Announces Winners of Design Competition to Advance Energy Efficient Lighting http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10181 Tue, 15 May 2012 10:39:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10181 Winners of the indoor lighting category of the fourth-annual Next Generation LuminairesTM (NGL) Design Competition were announced late last week at the LIGHTFAIR International conference in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The competition, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America, and the International Association of Lighting Designers, was launched in 2008 to promote excellence in the design of energy-efficient light-emitting diode (LED) commercial lighting fixtures, or "luminaires." Solid-state lighting (SSL), which includes both LED and organic light emitting diode (OLED) technologies, has the potential to save Americans $30 billion a year in energy costs by 2030. Advancing energy efficient lighting choices is part of the Obama Administration's strategy to help families and businesses save money by saving energy, while ensuring American leadership in energy-efficient building technologies.

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]]> Applied Materials Restructuring Solar Business http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10179 Tue, 15 May 2012 08:27:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10179 In order to meet its recently announced goal to reduce the annual revenue breakeven level in its Energy and Environment Solutions (EES) segment from $800 million to $500 million in FY 2013, Applied Materials yesterday said it would be laying off approximately 250 people and moving its precision wafering system...

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]]> Visualizing sustainability's rewards via MIT's new interactive tool http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10176 Tue, 15 May 2012 07:51:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10176 MIT Sloan Management Review released the results of its latest global survey on sustainability and innovation earlier this month, revealing that a significant number of companies see the value of sustainable business practices - and are reaping the financial rewards...

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]]> Study Compares Energy Sources From 'Cradle-to-Grave' http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10175 Tue, 15 May 2012 06:13:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10175 No form of energy really emits zero emissions, and that's a point that's both missed by casual advocates and overstated by strident critics. It takes a whole lot of energy — quite often of the coal burning variety — to test, build, transport, install and dismantle all those clean sources of renewable energy...

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]]> Energy Department Announces Milestone in Fuel Cell Use http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10172 Mon, 14 May 2012 13:03:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10172 In support of President Obama's all-of-the-above energy strategy, the Energy Department today announced that more than one thousand fuel cells were deployed through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

Over the last three years, nearly 1,200 fuel cells have been deployed in emergency backup power units and material handling equipment, such as forklift trucks. This investment is a part of the Department's commitment to U.S. leadership in innovative fuel cell technologies to give American businesses more options to cut energy costs and reduce petroleum use.

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]]> Investing in Rare Earths Proven Lucrative by Special Report http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10150 Mon, 14 May 2012 09:01:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10150 Investing in rare earths has become a growing trend in the trading markets, and Absolute Wealth is releasing a Special Report to provide the facts and figures that make it such an intriguing opportunity. Demand is high and value is higher, producing a perfect storm of investment potential in an extremely lucrative industry...

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]]> Eaton's electric car DC Quick Charger coming to Hawaii and Wash. DC http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10153 Mon, 14 May 2012 07:16:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10153 Electrical supply and distribution equipment maker Eaton demonstrated the CHADEMO compatible DC Quick Charger (DCQC) station for electric cars at the EVS26 electric vehicle symposium earlier this week. The station offers full UL certification, flexible configuration, CHADEMO compatibility, and planned...

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]]> Broken Bow Wind project will generate electricity, jobs, land lease payments http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10152 Mon, 14 May 2012 07:10:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10152 Construction of the Broken Bow Wind project is scheduled for completion in November. About 100 workers or more will be on the site during peak construction. Midwest Wind Energy President Stefan Noe said this is the fourth project his Chicago-based company has developed with EMG in Nebraska and Illinois...

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]]> First Light Technologies launches WLB Series Solar LED Bollard at LIGHTFAIR http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10151 Mon, 14 May 2012 07:05:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10151 First Light Technologies is pleased to announce the launch of its WLB Series Solar LED Bollard for low-level architectural, commercial way finding, and landscaping applications. "With this offering we continue our commitment to bring simple, effective self-contained solar-powered lighting to the $13 billion outdoor and architectural lighting market," said Sean Bourquin, First Light Technologies Managing Director and Co-founder...

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]]> Rare-Earth Mining Rises Again in United States http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10149 Mon, 14 May 2012 06:56:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10149 Businessmen and politicians worry that China’s dominance over these 17 elements is a strategic vulnerability, discouraging innovation and threatening national defense. A bread-roll-sized chunk of neodymium sells for about $300. That may soon change. Encouraged by rising prices and political support, new mines are starting up around the world, most notably in Malaysia and in California...

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]]> How federal, state and local agencies save money through solar energy http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10148 Mon, 14 May 2012 06:30:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10148 The growth of solar in the public sector stems in part from policies such as the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 and the 2009 Omnibus Appropriations Act that require federal agencies to reduce energy consumption and increase energy efficiency. Many federal agencies have turned to solar electricity because it offers a clean and reliable means for helping save money and meet their energy-savings goals...

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]]> IBM's 'building whisperer' sees retrofit boom http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10143 Fri, 11 May 2012 16:34:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10143 America's skyscrapers, many built before World War Two, are showing their age. IBM's "building whisperer," Dave Bartlett, believes many of these buildings could use a diet. Bartlett, who leads IBM's smarter building initiative, is known as the "building whisperer" because he views buildings as living...

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]]> Marvell and Osram Further Adoption of Superior Quality LED Lighting with Turnkey Reference Design http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10142 Fri, 11 May 2012 16:31:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10142 Marvell and Osram Opto Semiconductors today announced the availability of the Marvell-Osram two-color LED downlight reference design to further facilitate mass market adoption of high-quality, affordable LED lighting. The turnkey reference design, based on high performance LEDs from Osram and highly integrated and advanced driver ICs from Marvell, drastically reduces the engineering complexity involved in designing and manufacturing premium performance, high-color rendering index...

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]]> Sharp® Announces Expansion Of High-Performance, Energy-Efficient LED Lighting Solutions Portfolio http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10141 Fri, 11 May 2012 16:27:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10141 Sharp Electronics Corporation today announced its plans to launch a new portfolio of market-leading LED downlighting, track lighting, and recessed troffer solutions, designed and manufactured in its facilities in the US. This product offering is the first of what will become a steady stream of future luminaire and lamp solutions for lighting applications from Sharp...

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]]> Complex LED Lighting Options Call for Sophisticated Education Tools http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10140 Fri, 11 May 2012 16:22:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10140 Buyer education is a never-ending task for manufacturers of light fixtures. With advances in areas such as color and dimming, light-emitting diodes are evolving faster than the public’s knowledge about them. Misconceptions persist, even among architects and lighting designers. As LEDs overcome their technical limitations, the conversation turns to the up-front cost...

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]]> Peoples Gas hits funding bump in $2.5 billion plan to replace pipes http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10139 Fri, 11 May 2012 16:17:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10139 Peoples Gas is digging up Chicago streets and replacing rusty, leak-prone pipes with plastic pipes that can deliver natural gas faster, safer and more efficiently. "There's pipe that went in the ground when Lincoln was president," said Willard Evans Jr., president of Peoples Gas. "I can't wait for it to be unsafe to replace it..."

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]]> Lincoln Renewable Energy Officially Dedicates Its NJ Oak Solar Project, the Largest Non-Utility-Owned Project in the Eastern U.S. http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10138 Fri, 11 May 2012 16:15:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10138 Lincoln Renewable Energy (LRE), a leading developer of solar and wind projects, today held the official dedication ceremony for its 12.5 mega-watt NJ Oak solar project. Local officials joined LRE management at the project site in Cumberland County, N.J., which consists of approximately 53,000 solar panels constructed on a 100-acre site. It is the largest non-utility-owned solar project east of the Mississippi...

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]]> Chicago developer adding renewable energy to low-income housing projects http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10137 Fri, 11 May 2012 16:12:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10137 Hippolito “Paul” Roldan, president and CEO of Hispanic Housing Development Corp., is kicking off a $7 million renewable energy initiative this month at 13 housing projects in Chicago neighborhoods including Humboldt Park...

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]]> The Global Electric Vehicle Movement: Best Practices From 16 Cities http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10136 Fri, 11 May 2012 16:00:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10136 Global leaders want to have 20 million electric vehicles (EVs) on the road worldwide by 2020. Last year, some 40,000 EVs and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) were sold around the world. If the J-shaped growth expectations are to be realized, the cost of advanced batteries must continue to fall and smart policies must accelerate the adoption of EVs in urban areas...

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]]> SWITCH Lighting Announces Production of Full Line of LED A-Lamps http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10135 Fri, 11 May 2012 15:57:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10135 SWITCH Lighting(TM), the first company to offer a true LED replacement to the incandescent with no compromises, is announcing the availability of its highly-anticipated family of LED A-lamps. They are the only liquid-cooled LED A-lamps that can be used in any fixture, any orientation, and anywhere -- indoors and out. After first introducing their innovative technology last year, SWITCH's LED lamps are now in production and will be on display at LIGHTFAIR...

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]]> Schneider joins ABB, Siemens, Eaton in EV quick charging race http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10128 Fri, 11 May 2012 08:41:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10128 This week, at EVS 26 in Los Angeles, Schneider Electric announced U.S. availability of its new EVlink DC Quick Charger through authorized channel partners. The product meets full compliance with existing standards for quick chargers and includes RFID authentication and credit card payment systems as well as installation and maintenance services...

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]]> Over the past decade, lighting became more efficient across all sectors http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10125 Fri, 11 May 2012 07:16:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10125 The Department of Energy (DOE) recently released a study of the 2010 lighting market, finding that lighting across all sectors became more energy efficient since their study of the 2001 lighting market. The residential sector, which accounted for 25% of total lighting energy consumption in 2010, remained the least energy efficient of the sectors, primarily due to the use of incandescent lamps...

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]]> This Week at EIA - 05/10/2012 http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10124 Fri, 11 May 2012 07:07:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10124 REGULARLY SCHEDULED WEEKLY RELEASES:
 
Gasoline and Diesel Fuel Update (5/7/2012)
Presents average weekly retail on-highway diesel fuel prices for the U.S., 8 regions, and the State of California and average weekly retail gasoline prices at the national and regional levels, and for selected cities and States.
 
The Coal News and Markets Report for week ended 5/4/2012 (5/7/2012)
Contains information for the week and spot prices:
 
This Week in Petroleum (5/9/2012)
Provides analysis, data, and charts of the latest weekly petroleum supply and price data.
 
Weekly Petroleum Status Report, Data for Week Ending 5/4/2012 (5/9/2012)
Contains timely information on supply and selected prices of crude oil and principal petroleum products in the context of historical data and forecasts.
 
Weekly Natural Gas Storage Report (5/10/2012)
Contains weekly estimates of natural gas in underground storage for the United States and three regions of the United States.
 
Natural Gas Weekly Update (5/10/2012)
Contains weekly updates of natural gas market prices, latest storage level estimates, recent lower 48 NOAA weather data, and other market activity or events.
 
Coal Production for Week Ended 5/5/2012 (5/10/2012)
Contains an overview of U.S. weekly coal production.
 

OTHER RELEASES THIS WEEK:
 
OPEC Revenues Fact Sheet (05/10/2012)
Based on projections from the EIA May 2012 Short-Term Energy Outlook (STEO), members of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) could earn an estimated $1,154 billion of net oil export revenues in 2012 and $1,117 billion in 2013.
 
Over the past decade, lighting became more efficient across all sectors (05/10/2012)
The Department of Energy (DOE) recently released a study of the 2010 lighting market, finding that lighting across all sectors became more energy efficient since their study of the 2001 lighting market. The residential sector, which accounted for 25% of total lighting energy consumption in 2010, remained the least energy efficient of the sectors, primarily due to the use of incandescent lamps.
 
Domestic Uranium Production Report - Annual (05/09/2012)
Statistical data update for 2011 on drilling, mining, production, shipments, facilities, employment and expenditures in the U.S. uranium production industry.
 
Vietnam Country Analysis Brief (05/09/2012)
Over the past decade, Vietnam has emerged as an important oil and gas producer in Southeast Asia, and the country’s economic growth has spurred energy consumption and investment in unexplored oil and gas basins. Vietnam commissioned its first oil refinery in 2009 causing crude exports to drop substantially. The country is self-sufficient in natural gas, and both production and consumption have grown six-fold over the past decade.
 
Policies for compensating behind-the-meter generation vary by State (05/09/2012)
Most States have policies providing incentives for the general public to produce renewable electricity onsite to "spin the meter backwards" (see map above). The terms for such net metering arrangements are typically embodied in a utility tariff.
 
U.S. nuclear outages back within five-year range (05/08/2012)
U.S. nuclear outages peaked above 27 gigawatts on April 16, 2012, due to the combination of seasonal refueling outages and several forced outages. U.S. nuclear reactor operators typically schedule refueling and maintenance outages for the spring and fall to help ensure that reactors are available to meet higher electric demand levels in the summer and winter.
 
Short-Term Energy Outlook (05/08/2012)
EIA’s current forecast of the average U.S. refiner acquisition cost of crude oil in 2012 is $110 per barrel, which is $2.50 per barrel lower than in last month’s Outlook, but still about $8 per barrel higher than last year’s average price. EIA expects the price of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil to average about $104 per barrel in 2012, about $2 per barrel lower than the forecast in last month’s Outlook, but $9 per barrel higher than the 2011 average price. EIA expects crude oil prices to remain relatively flat in 2013.
 
Short-Term Energy Outlook - Market Prices and Uncertainty Report (05/08/2012)
Front month futures prices for Brent and WTI settled at $113.18 and $98.49 per barrel, respectively, on May 4 (Figure 1). Brent is now $13 per barrel lower compared to its 2012 high reached on March 13 and WTI is $9 per barrel off its 2012 high on February 24.
 
EIA publishes monthly biodiesel production data for 2010 and 2011(05/07/2012)
U.S. production of biodiesel was a record 109 million gallons in December 2011, according to new data released by the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). Production came from 113 active biodiesel plants. Biodiesel production for all of 2011 was 967 million gallons, which was the highest level recorded since EIA began tracking this data.
 
State Energy Data System: Wood and Biomass Waste Through 2010 (05/04/2012)
Annual State-level estimates of consumption, prices, and expenditures for wood and biomass waste.
 
Alternative Fuel Vehicle Data (05/04/2012)
New interactive viewer provides time-series data now through 2010.
 
Monthly Biodiesel Production Report(05/04/2012)
The U.S. Energy Information Administration released new data today showing national and regional monthly biodiesel production from January 2009 to December 2011. In addition to biodiesel production, data included producer sales, producer stocks, and feedstock inputs.
 
A Clean Energy Standard could reduce power sector carbon dioxide emissions(05/04/2012)
EIA recently released an Analysis of Impacts of the Clean Energy Standard Act of 2012, pursuant to the request of Chairman Bingaman of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. According to EIA's analysis, the proposed policy would reduce electric power sector carbon dioxide emissions 44% below EIA's Reference case in 2035. National average delivered electricity prices would increase 18% above the Reference case by 2035. However, for years before 2025, the national average electric power price increase due to the proposed policy is less than 5% above Reference case values.
 
Renewable utility-scale electricity production differs by fuel among states (05/03/2012)
Generation of electricity from renewable sources has increased over the last decade, from 8% of total generation in the electric power sector in 2001 to 13% in 2011. However, there are significant differences among states in the type and amount of renewable energy used, due to variation in the level of development and the availability of renewable resources.
 
Wholesale Market Data (05/03/2012)
Spreadsheets contain peak prices, volumes, and the number of transactions at ten electricity trading hubs covering most regions of the United States. Data from ICE (IntercontinentalExchange) through April 27, 2012.
]]> Low-Temperature Geothermal: Digging for Its Vast Opportunity http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10123 Fri, 11 May 2012 07:04:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10123 The geothermal industry recognizes the need for innovation. Halley Dickey of TAS Energy, Karl Gawell of GEA (Geothermal Energy Association), and Doug Glaspey of U.S. Geothermal Inc. expressed the crucial importance of research and development in the geothermal industry during a conference call last month. Most experts have their sights set on the vast potential of and innovative use of low-temperature geothermal resources. Quotes from the conference call follow...

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]]> Study says solar energy not oversubsidized http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10122 Fri, 11 May 2012 06:41:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10122
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]]> GE Appliances is First Appliance Manufacturer to Partner in Four Voluntary EPA Programs http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10121 Fri, 11 May 2012 06:30:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10121 Giving customers one more reason to choose GE appliances, GE announced today that it has become a partner with the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) WasteWise Program – a voluntary initiative focused on waste reduction and saving environmental resources while reducing emissions. GE also announced its partnership with EPA’s SmartWay® Program to help lower transportation-related emissions...

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]]> Empire State Building Redefines New York City Skyline With Philips LED Lighting http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10120 Fri, 11 May 2012 06:25:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10120 World’s most famous office building teams with Philips Color Kinetics to create state-of-the-art, dynamic lighting system that can change building’s mast colors in real-time. The Empire State Building (ESB) has selected Philips, the world’s leader in lighting, as its partner to transition the building’s iconic tower lights to innovative LEDs...

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]]> Renewable Energy Ballot Proposal Stalls in Mo. http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10110 Thu, 10 May 2012 13:44:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10110 An effort to require Missouri utilities to increase reliance on renewable energy has fallen short. Renew Missouri, a Columbia-based advocacy group, didn't collect enough signatures by Sunday's deadline to put a measure on the ballot this fall that would require Ameren Missouri and other investor-owned utilities to ramp up use of green power to 25 percent by the middle of the next decade...

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]]> AASHE Sustainability Review: Green-Job Training ?Skyrocketed' in 2011 http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10114 Thu, 10 May 2012 11:20:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10114 Nearly 60 percent of all new higher-education programs or training opportunities in 2011 focused on renewable energy and green careers, with $543 million recorded toward the effort, according to the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education’s 2011 Higher Education Sustainability Review...

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]]> Solar Installers Offer Deals, Gaining Converts http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10113 Thu, 10 May 2012 11:16:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10113 Jay Nuzzi, a New Jersey state trooper, had put off installing solar panels on his home here for years, deterred by the $70,000 it could cost. Then on a trip to Home Depot, he stumbled across a booth for Roof Diagnostics, which offered him a solar system at a price he couldn’t refuse: free...

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]]> Honda Announces Leviton as Preferred Electric Vehicle Charging Solution http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10112 Thu, 10 May 2012 11:14:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10112 American Honda Motor Co., Inc. today announced that Leviton Manufacturing Company, the global leader in connectivity solutions, has been selected as Honda's preferred Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment provider for customer and dealer EV charging. Honda will be introducing two battery-electric vehicles beginning with the 2013 Honda Fit EV this summer, and the Honda Accord Plug-In Hybrid Sedan next winter...

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]]> ComEd rates to soar in fall after summer relief http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10111 Thu, 10 May 2012 09:49:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10111 First, the good news: Electricity rates charged by Commonwealth Edison Co. will fall this coming summer due to a temporary reduction in delivery rates and lower power prices. Now, the bad news: Once “non-summer” energy prices resume in October...

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]]> Tenaska Considering Natural Gas for Stalled $3.5B Ill. Power Plant http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10109 Thu, 10 May 2012 09:42:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10109 Nebraska-based Tenaska originally proposed turning Illinois' high-sulfur coal into gas to power a $3.5 billion electric generating plant in downstate Taylorville.

That proposal had been stalled in various forms at the Legislature since 2008 because of opposition from environmentalists concerned over pollution created by gasifying the coal. Also, consumers and businesses feared being saddled for decades with extra costs on their electric bills. Under the proposal, Illinois ratepayers would be forced to purchase electricity from the plant...

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]]> How P2 can change the state of green manufacturing http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10108 Thu, 10 May 2012 07:33:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10108 When it comes to reducing the environmental impacts of a business, the concept of pollution prevention is one of the most fundamentally important ideas in the sustainability guidebook. The basic concept is simple: Pollution prevention (P2) aims to reduce or eliminate waste at the source...

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]]> Eaton to Power Energy-Efficient Transportation in Washington, D.C. with Electric Vehicle Charging Network http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10107 Thu, 10 May 2012 06:28:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10107 Diversified industrial manufacturer Eaton Corporation today announced it will collaborate with the Greater Washington Regional Clean Cities Coalition (GWRCCC) to provide electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure planning and consultation for the Greater Washington, D.C. region. The goal of the one-year project, funded by a Department of Energy (DOE) grant, is to create a safe, reliable and efficient EV charging network for the region...

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]]> The Challenges of Building-Integrated Photovoltaics http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10106 Thu, 10 May 2012 06:24:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10106 BIPV comprises a group of solar PV technologies that are built into (instead of installed onto) the host structure and may actually replace some building materials (such as windows or roof shingles). BIPV's potential to seamlessly integrate into the building envelope holds aesthetic appeal for architects, builders, and real estate holders, and this has been one of its principal sources of attraction in its three-decade lifespan...

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]]> Wells Fargo Fuels Energy Efficiency Research With Half-Million Dollar Grant to UC Davis http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10105 Thu, 10 May 2012 06:21:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10105 Continuing its efforts to accelerate a greener economy, Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE: WFC) said today it has awarded a five-year, $500,000 grant to the UC Davis Energy Efficiency Center (EEC). Wells Fargo’s contribution provides core funding to assist the UC Davis EEC, one of the nation’s leading research centers, in its mission to accelerate the development and commercialization of energy efficient technologies and train future leaders in energy efficiency...

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]]> Grace Receives Awards for Energy Efficiency, Safety and Product Stewardship Improvements http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10104 Thu, 10 May 2012 06:16:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10104 W. R. Grace & Co. has received Responsible Care® Energy Efficiency Awards, Facility Safety Certificates and a Performance Award from the American Chemistry Council (ACC) for implementing energy efficiency improvements and achieving certain safety and product stewardship milestones...

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]]> LED Industry News: Cooper, Rambus, GE, LBT, Lighting Science, Soraa http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10102 Wed, 09 May 2012 18:04:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10102 Cooper has signed a licensing agreement with Rambus, GE Lighting has combined LED and non-LED technologies in a single sales organization, LBT and LSG have appointed high-profile board members, and Soraa has added to its management team...

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]]> Energy Conversion Devices to lay off 300 employees http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10103 Wed, 09 May 2012 15:08:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10103 Auburn Hills-based Energy Conversion Devices plans to immediately lay off 300 employees worldwide because it failed to attract any bids for its solar roofing materials business...

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]]> Philips Lighting and GE Lighting launch 100W LED retrofit lamps http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10101 Wed, 09 May 2012 15:02:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10101 LED retrofit lamps now cover the full spectrum of incandescent lamps with GE Lighting and Philips Lighting each announcing a 100W-equivalent product headed into Lightfair in Las Vegas, NV where the exhibits open on Wednesday. Switch Lighting recently announced such a lamp and others are likely to announce 100W solid-state lighting (SSL) equivalents this week...

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]]> A Papermaker's Perspective on Sustainable Forestry http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10099 Wed, 09 May 2012 10:24:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10099 There is not a single matter related to papermaking that touches each of us as personally and emotionally as forestry. Simply put, people love trees. Some people envision responsible paper manufacturer as engaging in deforestation but, in fact, our suppliers are harvesting sustainability with a keen vigilance...

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]]> Who's hiring in sustainability? http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10098 Wed, 09 May 2012 07:39:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10098 Graduation day is fast approaching, and with it thoughts of entering the work force – or perhaps starting work in a new field. For those searching for a job in sustainability, I’d like to expand on an article I wrote about sustainability job search strategies. In that article, I listed three types of sustainability jobs...

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]]> Cree and Lutron Introduce World's Most Efficient Lighting Control and Delivery System http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10096 Wed, 09 May 2012 06:51:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10096 The growing demand for energy-efficient LED lighting solutions combined with increasingly stringent energy and building codes require an advanced level of lighting and control integration. Cree, Inc.  announces a
first-of-its-kind agreement with Lutron Electronics Co., Inc. to embed Lutron EcoSystem® technology on a chip in Cree luminaires to accelerate LED adoption and increase energy efficiency for building designers, contractors
and owners...

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]]> Massachusetts Sets Strict Regulations for Biomass: Will This Influence Further Restrictions? http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10095 Wed, 09 May 2012 06:47:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10095 New Hampshire, U.S.A. -- The Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources released a new set of strict standards for biomass in early May that have the potential to cut subsidies for developing plants. According to these new requirements, all qualifying biomass plants must generate power at 50 percent efficiency to qualify for one-half Renewable Energy credit (REC) per MWh, and 60 percent for one full REC...

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]]> Energy Department Announces Guide for 50% More Energy Efficient Hospitals http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10093 Tue, 08 May 2012 14:41:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10093 The Energy Department today announced the release of the final installment in a series of four 50% Advanced Energy Design Guides (AEDGs).

This latest guide will help architects, engineers, and contractors design and build highly efficient hospital buildings, helping to save energy and cut facility operational costs. The 50% AEDG series provides a practical approach for designers and builders of large hospitals, and other major commercial building types, to achieve 50% energy savings compared to the building energy code used in many parts of the nation. These commercial building guides support President Obama's goal to reduce energy use in commercial buildings 20% by 2020.

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]]> Energy Department Announces up to $5 Million to Spur Adoption of Alternative Fuel Vehicles in Communities Nationwide http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10081 Tue, 08 May 2012 11:00:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10081 As part of President Obama's all-of-the-above energy strategy to address the high price of gasoline and reduce American dependence on foreign oil, the U.S. Department of Energy today announced up to $5 million available this year to help expand the use of alternative fuel vehicles, including electric vehicles (EVs), in cities and towns across the country.

The funding will help cut red tape and streamline permitting processes for homeowners and businesses, provide training for mechanics and first responders, and support community planning to expand fueling infrastructure for alternative fuel vehicles. The Administration's investments in electric drive and alternative fuel vehicles are part of a comprehensive strategy to increase America's energy security, reduce emissions, and help families and drivers save money.

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]]> China Dims 'Golden Sun' Solar Subsidy http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10079 Tue, 08 May 2012 06:41:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10079 New Hampshire, U.S.A. -- China, the target of criticism and legal action from those who contend it unfairly subsidizes its export market, is now cutting support for some of its own solar generation. The reason? China is saying that prices are falling at such a rate that solar projects no longer need the level of subsidy that was originally set. Bloomberg reported Thursday that China will cut the subsidies it set in February for its Golden Sun program from 7...

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]]> New warehouse lighting illuminates energy savings http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10078 Tue, 08 May 2012 06:38:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10078 At Midlab Inc., a Kelsan supplier in Athens, Tenn., she and others observed energy-efficient lighting that turned off when no employees were in certain areas of the warehouse. At the Colgate plant in Morristown, where a customer of Kelsan cleans, Kelsan employees saw similar lighting and heard about how much the company was saving on its utility bills...

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]]> Japan Shuts Down Last Nuclear Reactor http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10077 Tue, 08 May 2012 06:35:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10077 .Nearly 14 months after a powerful earthquake and tsunami triggered the most severe nuclear accident since Chernobyl, Japan is shutting down the last of its nuclear reactors. After the accident, the Japanese government imposed safety tests on all nuclear power plants...

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]]> As incentives dim, solar companies shift focus http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10076 Tue, 08 May 2012 06:32:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10076 Ignited by federal stimulus dollars, the industry has enjoyed three years of federal and state incentives that have, for the most part, dimmed. And last year, TVA scaled back its incentives, limiting the most generous payments to systems producing less than 50 kilowatts of power. That's left many in the industry to predict few, if any, large commercial installations will be built in the near future...

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]]> ComEd launches Power Outage Smartphone App http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10074 Tue, 08 May 2012 04:32:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10074 outage map available available as a smart phone application for smart phones; available for both iPhone and Android phones. The free app will allow ComEd customers to report outages, check when power will be restored, view their account and make payments, according to a ComEd press release.]]> Harnessing Chicago's Wind http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10072 Mon, 07 May 2012 08:09:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10072 Energy-renewal innovator Beth Thomas is passionate about the possibilities of expanding “green” energy in urban environments, and she sees Chicago as a gold mine...

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]]> China Welcomes Foreign Firms in Development of REE Sector http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10071 Mon, 07 May 2012 07:53:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10071 China has dominated rare earth headlines for some time now, but never more so than over the past six weeks. In March, the US, European Union, and Japan formally requested that the World Trade Organization (WTO) launch an investigation into China’s rare earth export policy. The countries put forward the application because they believe that the current export quota system gives Chinese companies an unfair competitive advantage...

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]]> Requirements for New DOE Voluntary Energy Savings Specifications http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10070 Mon, 07 May 2012 07:49:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10070 Recently, the Department of Energy (DOE) announced new voluntary energy-saving specifications for lighting troffers (rectangular overhead fixtures used in commercial buildings) and parking lot and parking structure lighting. Developed by the DOE’s Commercial Building Energy Alliances (CBEA), these new commercial lighting specifications can reduce energy use by...

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]]> Cree Introduces Industry's First LED Module Designed to Replace Ceramic Metal Halide Lighting http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10069 Mon, 07 May 2012 07:32:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10069 Cree, Inc. expands the recently launched 2000 and 3000 lumen LMH2 module family and delivers lighting manufacturers a new dome lens and universal driver with dimming options. The new lens enables up to a five percent increase in system efficacy compared to the standard lens and delivers an unrivalled hemispheric light pattern. Cree LMH2 modules enable true 50 watt and 70 watt ceramic metal halide LED replacements and support an expansive range of lighting applications, including downlights, wall sconces, pendants, flush-mounted, spot, track and ceiling fan lights...

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]]> Will Solar Windows Transform Buildings to Energy Producers? http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10068 Mon, 07 May 2012 07:28:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10068 The vast amount of glass in skyscrapers and office buildings represents enormous potential for an emerging technology that turns windows into solar panels. But major questions remain as to whether solar windows can be sufficiently inexpensive and efficient to be widely adopted...

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]]> Residents complain about aggressive sales tactics for electricity aggregation http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10067 Mon, 07 May 2012 07:25:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10067 One common complaint — made by officials from various suburbs and heard by regulators and customer advocacy groups — is that the salespeople from energy retailers are implying during house calls that they are aligned with the municipal government in that community and then try to sign residents into individual contracts...

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]]> Conquering LED Efficiency Droop: Overcoming mysterious phenomenon could lead to affordable LED lighting http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10066 Mon, 07 May 2012 07:19:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10066 Like a coffee enthusiast who struggles to get a buzz from that third cup of morning joe, light-emitting diodes (LEDs) seem to reach a point where more electricity no longer imparts the same kick and productivity levels-off. Now a team of researchers from California and Japan has devised a new design for green and blue LEDs that avoids much of this vexing efficiency droop. The findings will be presented at the Conference on Lasers and Electro-Optics (cleo:2012), taking place May 6-11 in San Jose, Calif...

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]]> Lusio Solid-State Lighting Sees Significant Demand for its High Bay LED Lighting Solutions http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10065 Mon, 07 May 2012 07:16:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10065 Lusio Solid-State Lighting’s increased depth of product offerings coupled with corporate initiatives to reduce energy consumption has resulted in growing demand for Lusio LED fixtures in applications such as warehouses, laboratories, cold storage facilities, high ceiling commercial spaces, manufacturing facilities, convention centers, and retail and showroom areas...

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]]> Ameren asks for delay pollution controls at Illinois coal plants http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10064 Mon, 07 May 2012 07:12:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10064 Ameren Corp. is seeking to delay installation of pollution controls on some coal-fired power plants in Illinois for six years because of weak power prices, and says it may be forced to mothball two plants if its request is denied...

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]]> Emerging Data Center Trends in Focus: Custom-Build, Connectivity, Energy Efficiency -- June 7 in Chicago http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10062 Mon, 07 May 2012 07:06:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10062 The National Data Center Summit Series, the fastest-growing conference series for data center executives in the nation, will bring together 40+ speakers, experts in data center real estate and technology infrastructure, to discuss the demand drivers and myriad of opportunities in today's climate related to new development, acquisition strategies, financing, technology solutions and more. More than 200 are expected to attend the Chicago Summit on June 7...

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]]> Lombard chooses 100 percent renewable for electricity aggregation http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10061 Mon, 07 May 2012 07:01:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10061 The village board approved a two-year contract for 100 percent renewable energy from FirstEnergy Solutions at a rate of 4.64 cents per kilowatt hour, a decision that garnered applause from a group of Sierra Club members wearing T-shirts saying they were “another voter for clean energy...”

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]]> Sunovia Receives Patent Approval for Smart LED Light Bulb Concept http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10060 Mon, 07 May 2012 06:58:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10060 Sarasota, Florida USA-- Sunovia Energy Technologies, a global leader in the development and commercialization of high performance LED lighting systems, has been issued U.S. Patent No. 8,018,161 B2 relating to the wireless control and battery backed operation of LED lighting systems. Sunovia has been issued nine patents to date, and has more than twenty patents pending that are related to LEDs, LED lighting systems and LED internal controls...

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]]> The look of neon without the price http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10059 Mon, 07 May 2012 06:55:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10059 Terry Rush of Omaha Neon Sign said a true neon sign can cost from a few hundred dollars to well over $1,000, depending on size and complexity of design. Now, with technology producing lights that are cooler, more efficient and easier to place almost anywhere, more designers are using LED lighting to set a mood and accent art and architectural details...

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]]> This LED IPO May Be the Bright Way to Invest in Smarter Lights http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10058 Mon, 07 May 2012 06:52:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10058 Many companies play parts in the LED saga, after all. Rubicon Technology (RBCN) sells monocrystalline sapphires for use in making LEDs. Germany's Aixtron (AIXG) and Plainview, N.Y.-based Veeco Instruments (VECO) manufacture industrial-scale equipment for LED manufacture. Over the long term, General Electric (GE) predicts that LEDs will eventually make up 75% of its lighting business...

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]]> Chicago LEED Gold Hospital Project Biggest Ever http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10057 Mon, 07 May 2012 06:49:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10057 Along with research laboratories, hospitals are among the latest new construction projects to focus on achieving LEED green building certification, the largest example of which now resides at 1620 W. Harrison Street in Chicago: Rush University Medical Center’s distinctive new Tower building. The facility, which opened in January, has now earned LEED Gold certification from the U.S. Green Building Council, making it the largest new construction healthcare project...

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]]> EV Dreams And Industrial Metal Nightmares http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10056 Mon, 07 May 2012 06:43:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10056 To begin with, the prices of industrial metals are more volatile than oil prices and they usually increase faster. The following graph offers a seven-year comparison of market prices for Brent Crude and a basket of industrial metals represented by the Dow Jones UBS Industrial Metals Index...

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]]> Green ideas served up for restaurants http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10054 Mon, 07 May 2012 06:29:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10054 Green initiatives are putting greenbacks in the hands of restaurants who take the time to weigh the benefits. Recycling, of everything from glass and cardboard to cooking oil, can be cost neutral or even put money back into the pockets of restaurant operators, supporters of restaurant conservation efforts say...

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]]> Power shift at Exelon http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10053 Mon, 07 May 2012 06:27:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10053 Just nine days after Exelon Corp. completed its $7.9 billion acquisition of Constellation Energy Group Inc. and closed John Rowe's utility career with a flourish, the former Exelon CEO outlined successor Christopher Crane's situation starkly...

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]]> ABB enters market with Terra 51 electric vehicle fast charger http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10052 Mon, 07 May 2012 06:24:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10052 ABB, a company dealing in power and automation technology have launched a fast charger into the US markets. The Terra 51 direct current DC charger will be manufactured in New Berlin, Wisconsin and will be a fast charger for electric vehicles in the market. Deliveries to US markets should be effected in the next three to four months while...

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]]> This Week at EIA - 05/03/2012 http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10050 Fri, 04 May 2012 12:55:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10050 REGULARLY SCHEDULED WEEKLY RELEASES:
 
Gasoline and Diesel Fuel Update (4/30/2012)
Presents average weekly retail on-highway diesel fuel prices for the U.S., 8 regions, and the State of California and average weekly retail gasoline prices at the national and regional levels, and for selected cities and States.
 
The Coal News and Markets Report for week ended 4/27/2012 (4/30/2012)
Contains information for the week and spot prices:
 
This Week in Petroleum (5/2/2012)
Provides analysis, data, and charts of the latest weekly petroleum supply and price data.
 
Weekly Petroleum Status Report, Data for Week Ending 4/27/2012 (5/2/2012)
Contains timely information on supply and selected prices of crude oil and principal petroleum products in the context of historical data and forecasts.
 
Weekly Natural Gas Storage Report (5/3/2012)
Contains weekly estimates of natural gas in underground storage for the United States and three regions of the United States.
 
Natural Gas Weekly Update (5/3/2012)
Contains weekly updates of natural gas market prices, latest storage level estimates, recent lower 48 NOAA weather data, and other market activity or events.
 
Coal Production for Week Ended 4/28/2012 (5/3/2012)
Contains an overview of U.S. weekly coal production.
 

OTHER RELEASES THIS WEEK:
 
Renewable utility-scale electricity production differs by fuel among states (05/03/2012)
Generation of electricity from renewable sources has increased over the last decade, from 8% of total generation in the electric power sector in 2001 to 13% in 2011. However, there are significant differences among states in the type and amount of renewable energy used, due to variation in the level of development and the availability of renewable resources.
 
Wholesale Market Data (05/03/2012)
Spreadsheets contain peak prices, volumes, and the number of transactions at ten electricity trading hubs covering most regions of the United States. Data from ICE (IntercontinentalExchange) through April 27, 2012.
 
Analysis of the Clean Energy Standard Act of 2012 (05/02/2012)
Analyzes the impacts of proposed legislation to enact a Clean Energy Standard (CES), as proposed by Senator Bingaman. This policy would require covered electricity retailers to supply a specified share of their electricity sales from qualifying clean energy resources, including renewable energy and nuclear. Fossil fuels with low carbon intensity (carbon emissions per unit of generation) may also partially qualify as clean energy resources.
 
Historical Coal Imports and Exports Data (2002-2011) (05/02/2012)
Provides detailed historical coal imports and exports by year and quarter, country, and rank of coal for 2002 through 2011.
 
Electricity generation from non-hydro renewable sources varies by state (05/02/2012)
The states with the most non-hydro renewable generation in 2011 also tend to have significant generation from wind. In 2011, wind accounted for more than half of the non-hydro renewable generation in nine of the top ten states. Although non-hydro renewable generation grew substantially in most states over the previous decade, hydro generation still accounted for over 60% of total renewable generation in 2011. While solar is an important component of distributed generation, state-level solar estimates for utility-scale generation are not yet available for all 50 states.
 
Uranium Marketing Annual Report (05/02/2012)
Statistical data update for 2011 on uranium marketing activities in the United States.
 
Petroleum Marketing Monthly (05/01/2012)
Monthly sales data for February 2012 show crude oil prices rose firmly in all categories of sales, while refiner prices for finished petroleum products registered significant increases from January levels. Data covering prime supplier sales of finished petroleum products sold for local consumption show an increase in gasoline sales at the U.S. level while sales of distillates and other products show month-on-month declines.
 
Caribbean Country Analysis Brief (05/01/2012)
The Caribbean has several export-oriented oil refineries and storage centers, geared mainly towards the U.S. market. However, two major refineries were recently closed after experiencing losses due to changes in global demand and competition from new refineries elsewhere.
 
Wholesale electricity prices spike in Texas (05/01/2012)
Warmer-than-normal temperatures across Texas drove the hourly, day-ahead wholesale electricity prices between 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. on April 26 and 27 above $500 per megawatthour (MWh) in ERCOT, the electric system operator for most of Texas. Very high prices for just part of an upcoming day, especially during "super peaks", can yield high average prices for the entire on-peak period. Prices for on-peak power in ERCOT were about four times higher than most other major power markets during that week.
 
Peru Country Analysis Brief (05/01/2012)
Peru is currently a net oil importer and a natural gas exporter, but rising exploration and development may lead to increased production and exports of both oil and gas in the next few years. Despite a decline in crude oil production, Peru’s total oil liquids output has increased in recent years as a result of the rising production of natural gas liquids. Peru is self-sufficient in natural gas and began exporting LNG in 2010.
 
Access to alternative transportation fuel stations varies across the lower 48 states (04/30/2012)
Although gasoline remains by far the dominant transportation fuel, a variety of alternative fuels are currently in use, primarily by government and private fleets. These fuels include electricity, propane, higher ethanol-gasoline blends (E85), hydrogen, and natural gas. In aggregate, there are currently about 10,000 alternative fuel stations in the United States, compared to approximately 160,000 gasoline stations in the country.
 
Natural Gas Monthly (04/30/2012)
The April Natural Gas Monthly, with data through February 2012, is now available. Reflective of warmer than normal weather, residential deliveries of natural gas in February 2012 of 668 billion cubic feet (Bcf), or 23 Bcf/day, were the lowest daily levels on record for February since 1990. Commercial deliveries of 391 Bcf, or 13.5 Bcf/day, were at their lowest daily level for February since 1992.
 
Oil and Gas Field Code Master List (04/30/2012)
Comprehensive listing of U.S. oil and gas field names.
 
Monthly Natural Gas Gross Production Report (04/30/2012)
Monthly natural gas gross withdrawals estimated from data collected on Form EIA-914 (Monthly Natural Gas Production Report) for Federal Offshore Gulf of Mexico, Texas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas, Wyoming, Other States and Lower 48 States. Alaska data are from the State of Alaska and included to obtain a U.S. Total.
 
Electric Power Monthly (04/30/2012)
Data are for February 2012, during which net generation in the United States fell 1.0 percent from the February 2011 level. Consumption of coal for power generation fell 14.6 percent compared to February 2011. The average retail price of electricity for January 2012 was 9.64 cents per kilowatthour, the same as it had been in February 2011.
 
Electricity Monthly Update (04/30/2012)
This issue contains data for February 2012 as well as a feature article on the participation levels in retail electric choice programs among different customer classes by State.
 
Top 5 producing states' combined marketed natural gas output rose in 2011 (04/27/2012)
Combined marketed natural gas production from the top five natural gas producing states—Texas, Louisiana, Wyoming, Oklahoma, and Colorado—increased by about 7.5% in 2011, although their share of total U.S. natural gas output fell slightly to about 65%.
 
Company Level Imports (04/27/2012)
Imports data at the company level collected from the EIA-814 Monthly Imports Report.
 
The Availability and Price of Petroleum and Petroleum Products Produced in Countries Other Than Iran (04/27/2012)
This is the second in a series of reports prepared in fulfillment of Section 1245(d)(4)(A) of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2012, which requires that, not later than 60 days from enactment and every 60 days thereafter, the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) “submit to Congress a report on the availability and price of petroleum and petroleum products produced in countries other than Iran in the 60-day period preceding the submission of the report.”
 
Monthly Energy Review (04/27/2012)
EIA's most comprehensive report on recent integrated energy statistics. Preliminary data indicate that in January 2012, U.S. primary energy production totaled 6.9 quadrillion Btu, a 5-percent increase from January 2011.
 
How dependent are we on foreign oil? (04/27/2012)
The United States imported about 45% of the petroleum (crude oil and petroleum products) that we consumed during 2011. Just over half of these imports came from the Western Hemisphere. Our dependence on foreign petroleum has declined since peaking in 2005.
 
Petroleum Supply Monthly (04/27/2012)
Supply and disposition of crude oil and petroleum products on a national and regional level. The data series describe production, imports and exports, movements and inventories.


Appendix C, consisting of a table showing Impact of Revisions on Major Series, is included with the latest release of the Petroleum Supply Monthly (PSM). Appendix C will now be a regular part of the PSM.


The table contains information on revisions to published statistics. It shows the published value in the PSM, the revised value, and the difference for the major product series. Except for crude oil field production and adjustments, the official published petroleum supply statistics are not changed to reflect revisions until publication of the Petroleum Supply Annual (PSA).


This table is provided as a service to analysts who need to know the latest available statistics. It should be used with caution because revisions to published data can change from month to month. In some cases, the pattern of revisions during the year is a poor indicator of final statistics that will be published in the PSA.
 
U.S. summer gasoline demand expected to be at 11-year low (04/26/2012)
U.S. gasoline demand this summer is expected to be the lowest in 11 years, while the average summer fuel price is forecast to be at a record level. High prices at the pump—mostly a result of global crude oil prices—and the use of more efficient vehicles both encourage reduced gasoline consumption.
 
State Nuclear Profiles (04/26/2012)
Presents a summary of current and recent historical data for the nuclear power industry. The data focuses on net summer capacity and net generation for each state, as well as plant specific information for 2010.
]]> Criticism Rains Down Over Cloud Data Centers http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10049 Fri, 04 May 2012 12:49:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10049 New Hampshire, USA — Knowledge has always been power, but how that information is stored has emerged as one of the most challenging issues facing the evolution of technology. We’re connected digitally as never before and the ubiquitous nature of smartphones and tablets only means that the ability to access and share information must become cheaper and faster. This shift in how we seamlessly integrate technology is the byproduct of a cloud computing revolution that’s been led by some of the biggest names in technology...

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]]> ASHRAE Government Affairs Update, 5/4/2012 http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10047 Fri, 04 May 2012 12:33:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10047 GSA Releases Initial Report on Green Building Certification Systems
 
The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) released its review of Green Building Certification Systems on Thursday, May 3. This initial report is the first step in an extensive review process – including a public comment period – that evaluates tools that could help federal agencies meet their goals for maintaining and constructing more sustainable and efficient buildings. When completed, the use of updated building certification systems will help GSA’s customer agencies meet federal requirements for green construction, save taxpayer dollars and meet the goals of President Obama’s Executive Order on Federal Leadership in Environmental, Energy, and Economic Performance (E.O. 13514).
 
 
Three certification systems passed the screening criteria: The Green Building Initiative's Green Globes, U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), and the International Living Building Challenge. The initial findings from GSA revealed that none of the three building certification systems cover 100% of the federal building requirements for new construction, major renovations, or existing buildings.
 
 
GSA will hold public listening sessions for members of the public to provide feedback on its review and convene an interagency review group to evaluate and make recommendations on how to guide government construction towards meeting the goals of President Obama’s sustainability executive order. The inter-agency task is co-chaired by GSA, the Department of Energy (DOE), and the Department of Defense (DoD). Agencies with large portfolio holdings such as the Department of State, National Park Service, Department of Veterans Affairs, and the Forest Service have also been invited to take part.    
 
 
The review group’s findings will be shared through a notice-and-comment period advertised in the Federal Register. Following public comment, GSA, DoD, and DOE will develop formal recommendations on how green building certification systems will be used to facilitate high performance in the federal sector. GSA expects to make its final recommendation to the Secretary of Energy in the fall of 2012.
 
 
For more information, visit: http://www.gsa.gov/gbcertificationreview.
 
 
View GSA’s original press release at http://www.gsa.gov/portal/content/133751
 
 
 
House Oversight & Investigations Subcommittee to Hold Hearing on the Science Behind Green Building Rating Systems – ASHRAE to Submit Testimony for the Congressional Record
 
The House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight will hold a hearing on Tuesday, May 8 entitled “The Science Behind Green Building Rating Systems”. Witnesses will likely include representatives from the U.S. General Services Administration, U.S. Green Building Council, the Green Building Initiative, and possibly others. The Subcommittee asked, and ASHRAE will submit testimony for the Congressional Record.
 
 
Information on the hearing will be posted at http://ow.ly/aHmrj
 
 
Senators to Meet to Decide Fate of Major Energy Efficiency Bill
 
One of the few major energy bills in the Senate, the Energy Savings and Industrial Competitiveness Act (S.1000) has received support from approximately 150 business, trade, and energy efficiency organizations – including ASHRAE. Despite considerable support and agreement within the building community for S.1000, the road ahead for bill is unclear.
 
 
This coming week key Senators will meet to determine the broader levels of support for the bill in the Senate, and if it will likely be used by Senators as a target and stage for election year politics. While not necessarily final, the results of these discussions will weigh heavily on the bill’s chances for floor consideration and possible passage in the Senate. The fate of the bill in the House, if passed in the Senate, is even less certain.
 
 
For more information, please visit http://ow.ly/aHn5T, or contact Mark Ames, ASHRAE Manager of Federal Government Affairs, at mames@ashrae.org or 202-833-1830.
 
 
 
ASHRAE Sends Letter to EIA Encouraging Allocating Funds to Support CBECS
ASHRAE recently sent a letter to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) encouraging the Agency to allocate fiscal year 2013 funds to the Commercial Buildings Energy Consumption Survey (CBECS) to allow progress to continue on the 2012 edition of the Survey. EIA administers CBECS.
 
 
ASHRAE has learned that CBECS may be delayed by a year if EIA does not receive sufficient funding from Congress. This is particularly concerning because the House Appropriations Committee proposed a $5 million reduction in funding for EIA. EIA needs about $4 million per year to continue work on CBECS, and a $5 million funding reduction could result in a suspension of work on the Survey. EIA previously halted work on CBECS as a result of Congressional funding cuts. Despite this threat, the next edition of the Survey may be released on schedule.
 
 
The Senate Appropriations Committee proposed an $11.3 million increase in FY2013 funding for EIA. This would be enough to allow progress to continue on the Survey and fund a planned expansion.
 
 
Much uncertainty remains in the FY2013 funding level EIA will receive. ASHRAE is actively working with a large coalition of building community groups to encourage Congress and EIA to allocate funds to allow progress on the Survey to continue and data to be released on the current schedule.
 
 
To view ASHRAE’s letter to EIA, visit http://ow.ly/aHohf
 
 
For additional information or to get involved, please contact Mark Ames, ASHRAE Manager of Federal Government Affairs, at mames@ashrae.org or 202-833-1830.
]]> Energy Department Announces Regional Winners of University Clean Energy Business Competitions http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10046 Fri, 04 May 2012 12:02:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10046 Underscoring the Obama Administration's commitments to keep college affordable for American families and students and support the next generation of energy leaders, the U.S. Energy Department today announced the regional winners of its National Clean Energy Business Plan Competition.

The initiative inspires university teams across the country to create new businesses and commercialize promising energy technologies developed at U.S. universities and the National Laboratories. Today's regional finalists—Northwestern University, University of Utah, University of Central Florida, MIT, Stanford University, and Columbia University—will go on to compete in the first national competition in Washington, D.C. this June...

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]]> Free Online Tool Helps Manufacturers Assess Sustainability Efforts http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10045 Fri, 04 May 2012 10:48:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10045 UL Environment, the environmental services unit of Underwriters Laboratories, has launched a free web-based tool to help manufacturers assess their corporate sustainability efforts. The online self-assessment tool is the latest component of the UL’s Sustainability Quotient Program, a system of auditable standards created last year to assess...

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]]> Smarter Cars Offer Glimpse of Future for Autos, Marketing http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10055 Fri, 04 May 2012 06:34:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10055 Intel is also working with BMW and Toyota. "This is really the starting point of us becoming a significant player in the automotive market," said Tom Steenman, VP for Intel's intelligent-systems group. "The car is becoming the next big connected mobile device." To that end, the company recently established a $100 million venture-capital fund to explore advanced uses for its chips...

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]]> Pike Research: Building Info Modeling Market Will Reach $1.8bn This Year http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10044 Thu, 03 May 2012 10:29:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10044 The market for building information modeling software and services is still fledgling, but it’s evolving rapidly as the architecture, engineering and construction industry realizes its tools and processes are inefficient compared to those of other global industries such as manufacturing, according to a recent analysis from Pike Research...

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]]> On the Horizon: Deeper Wind, Faster Solar http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10036 Thu, 03 May 2012 10:20:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10036 New Hampshire, USA -- Offshore wind technology is striving to reach new depths while the solar industry is facing a challenge to make rooftop installation easier than ever. Both announcements this week are structured to clear some of the fundamental hurdles facing the wind and the solar industries...

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]]> The 7 lessons learned from 24 million EV miles http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10039 Thu, 03 May 2012 09:01:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10039 In the world of electric vehicles, nothing attracts as much speculation or disagreement as the debate over exactly how EV drivers behave. Do they need 100 miles of range or will 30 miles do? How many public recharge stations do they need? Do energy prices influence charging? And so on...

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]]> Existing Facilities can go Green without Breaking the Bank http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10038 Thu, 03 May 2012 08:46:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10038 In today’s extremely sustainable world, schools and hospitals need to live up to the new “green” standards that have been set while also meeting budgets. New construction takes a lot of the glory when it comes to showcasing highly sustainable elements. But facility managers of existing buildings can implement new systems without taking a huge bite out of the budget. Such systems include energy efficient HVAC, lighting and controls, and water solutions to make the space more sustainable, through an approach called Energy Savings Performance Contracting...

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]]> How to find a sustainability strategy that works http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10037 Thu, 03 May 2012 07:43:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10037 It takes years to build a workplace culture centered on volunteerism and giving. At EarthShare, we often see companies struggling to decide which causes to support and how to establish a culture that prioritizes sustainability.
These challenges are compounded when companies with very different approaches to sustainability come together...

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]]> SolarCity Rides the Rising Demand for Solar PV, Plans To Go Public http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10035 Thu, 03 May 2012 07:18:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10035 New Hampshire, USA -- On the heels of Brightsource Energy's announcement last month that it was canceling its plans to go public, SolarCity on Monday announced that it plans to conduct a registered initial public offering (IPO) of its common stock...

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]]> Energy Secretary Chu Announces Montana Schools Win National Student Efficiency Competition http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10033 Thu, 03 May 2012 06:02:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10033 Secretary of Energy Steven Chu today announced the winners of the America's Home Energy Education Challenge, a national student competition designed to encourage students and their families to take action to start saving money by saving energy.

A team of students from five schools in rural Carter County, Montana—Alzeda Elementary School, Carter County High School, Ekalaka Elementary School (K-8th grade), Hammond School (K-8th grade), and Hawks Home School—was declared the national winner for successfully reducing their home energy use by 3.4%, working with local utility companies and the community, and keeping students engaged throughout the process. The five schools will share the $15,000 they won as both a regional winner and as the national champion. Secretary Chu made the announcement on a conference call with Montana Governor Brian Schweitzer, Dr. Gerald Wheeler, Interim Executive Director of the National Science Teachers Association, and Marlene Waterland, an official with the Southeast Electric Cooperative representing the winning team.

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]]> Mixed News for Birds, Wind Farms, and Buildings http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10031 Wed, 02 May 2012 16:56:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10031 The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) estimates that 440,000 birds are killed in collisions with wind turbines each year; without stronger regulation, says the American Bird Conservancy (ABC), the annual toll will exceed one million by 2030...

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]]> LED downlights perform well in DOE Caliper Report 14 http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10030 Wed, 02 May 2012 16:43:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10030 The US Department of Energy has completed Series 14 of Caliper testing of LED downlight retrofit units. Beginning this year, every Caliper summary focuses on a single product type or application...

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]]> Carnegie Mellon reports that DC power is cheaper for LED lighting http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10029 Wed, 02 May 2012 16:40:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10029 The debate over AC or DC power grids will apparently continue into a third century as researchers have documented significant energy savings potential in commercial buildings when LED lighting is powered by a DC grid. Carnegie Mellon University researchers say DC power could save $24,000 a year in a 48,000-ft2 building lit by solid-state lighting (SSL)...

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]]> Green Power Network Update - April 2012 http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10028 Wed, 02 May 2012 16:35:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10028 Michigan State University Commits to Green Power
The Michigan State University (MSU) Board of Trustees voted to adopt the university's Energy Transition Plan, which requires the campus to acquire 40 percent of its energy use from renewable sources by 2030, with the ultimate goal to be eventually powered by 100 percent renewable energy. The plan was created by the Energy Transition Steering Committee; a 24 member group of students, faculty and staff who developed the plan to help MSU meet its future energy needs while addressing energy costs and environmental impacts.


 
Pacific Gas & Electric Company (PG&E) is seeking approval from the California Public Utilities Commission to offer a new green power program to begin in early 2013. PG&E will purchase renewable energy certificates to match the portion of each participating electric customer's energy that is not already covered by PG&E's eligible renewable energy deliveries. The Green Option program would allow customers to support 100 percent renewable energy and PG&E expects that residential customers will pay about $6 each month to participate. PG&E plans to certify the Green Option through Green-e Energy, a program of the Center for Resource Solutions.


 
The Maine Public Utilities Commission (MPUC) and 3Degrees announced the launch of Maine Green Power, a new state-wide voluntary green power program, which gives residents and businesses the opportunity to purchase locally produced renewable energy from solar, hydro, wind, biomass or other renewable energy projects located in the state. The Maine Green Power program will be available to customers of Central Maine Power, Bangor Hydro Electric Company, and Maine Public Service Company.


Maine Green Power participants can purchase green power in 500 kilowatt-hour blocks. Each block costs $7.50 per month, and residential customers can purchase between 0.5 and 4 blocks of renewable energy each month. Commercial customer can also purchase green power blocks at a rate of $7.50, though they must purchase a minimum of one block per month.

 
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released its updated National Top 50 Green Power Partnership rankings, which recognize leading organizations for their voluntary green power efforts. Microsoft and McDonald's, who joined the EPA Green Power Partnership in March, both made the National Top 50 rankings. Microsoft ranked 3rd, with more than 1.2 billion kilowatt-hours (kWh) of annual green power usage, while McDonald's ranked 11th overall with 306 million kWh of annual green power usage. Intel and Kohl's retained the top two spots.


 
The City of Cincinnati, Ohio announced the launch of its community choice aggregation (CCA) program, which will provide a 100 percent green electricity option for the city's eligible residents and small businesses. Percentage of income payment plan customers, as well as small business customers who use more than 700,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity per year are not eligible to participate in the program. CCA allows local governments to aggregate electricity demand within their jurisdictions in order to procure alternative energy supplies while maintaining existing transmission and distribution services.


Cincinnati selected FirstEnergy Solutions (FES) to be the city's green power provider, and will now negotiate a contract for a 100 percent green electricity supply. The city's CCA program is expected to begin in June, and it is estimated that eligible residential households who remain in the program will save about $133 per year on electricity costs. The city's program is an opt-out program, which means that eligible customers will be automatically enrolled in the program, and must decline if they do not want to participate.


A portion of FES's green power product will come from local renewable energy sources, including renewable energy certificates generated from the Cincinnati Zoo Solar canopy project.


 
Wellesley, Massachusetts residents and businesses are voluntarily supporting renewable energy. The town has achieved a 10 percent green power participation rate through Wellesley's Renewable Energy Program. Wellesley Municipal Light Plant customers have the power to choose renewable energy, generated primarily from the Spruce Mountain Wind Farm, for a portion or all of their electricity usage.


Babson College, Massachusetts, recently joined Wellesley's Renewable Energy Program. Babson will join the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Green Power Partnership, and the town of Wellesley is also in the process of applying to be an EPA Green Power Community for its voluntary green power achievements. Green Power Communities must collectively use green power in amounts that meet minimum EPA percentage requirements, based on base load electricity use.


 
Lowe's increased its annual green power purchasing by 34 percent, according to the company's 2011 Social Responsibility Report. Lowe's purchased more than 148 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of renewable energy in 2011, compared to 111 million kWh in 2010. The increase in green power purchasing allowed Lowe's to move up from 34th to 31st on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's National Top 50 Green Power Partner rankings. Lowe's currently ranks 8th on the Top 20 Retail Green Power Partner list.


 
Clean Currents announced the launch of its Green Passport D.C. promotional campaign, which runs from April 3rd through May 6th. The Green Passport D.C. contest combines social media with in-person activities to promote Washington D.C. area businesses that utilize renewable wind energy provided by Clean Currents.

Green Passport D.C. uses smart phone applications which allow participants to scan a quick response (QR) code to "check in" to participating locations. Participants will earn $2.50 each time they check in to any of the forty-eight participating companies, with a maximum award of $50, and a chance to win a $2,000 grand prize. In addition to rewards, participants also have the option to choose one of four local charities to receive a matching donation from Clean Currents each time they check in to a Green Passport D.C. destination.


 
Austin Energy, located in Austin Texas, now has 100 public-access charging stations in the Plug-in EVerywhere network for plug-in electric vehicles, all powered by 100% renewable energy. The 100 electric vehicle charging stations are located at Austin Community College campuses, City of Austin public facilities, and retail and commercial businesses throughout the city.


Austin area electric vehicle drivers can purchase pre-paid Plug-in EVerywhere network cards for $25 each, which allows unlimited public station charging for six months. Electricity for the Plug-in EVerywhere charging network is generated from 100 percent renewable energy provided by GreenChoice, Austin Energy's renewable energy option offered to its electric customers.

 
 

Ameren Illinois RFP seeking suppliers to deliver 523,376 MWh of renewable energy certificates (RECs) generated by renewable energy resources as defined in Illinois Pubic Act 95-0481, for the compliance period June 1, 2012 to May 31, 2013.
Contact: John Bitler, 617-531-2818 ext. 22


 
Western Area Power Administration RFI, acting under authority of the EPAct 2005 and at the request of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe and Citizens Energy Corporation, is seeking interest from its customers in the Upper Great Plains Region regarding the purchase of renewable energy generated from the proposed 99-MW Tate Topa Wind Energy Project located on the tribal reservation.
Contact: Michael Radecki, 406-255-2930


 
Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) RFP seeking qualified parties for power purchase agreements (PPAs) to design, permit, finance, install, own, operate, and maintain photovoltaic power generation facilities on MBTA properties. The solar installations will be located at the Wonderland Station Parking Garage in Revere, Massachusetts, and at Readville Yard 5, in Dedham, Massachusetts. The minimum annual generating capacity of the PV systems is 200 kW for the Wonderland Garage site, and 2.3 MW for the Readville Yard 5 site.
Contact: Phil Jean, 617-482-2525


 
Tucson Airport Authority RFP (#10112269) seeking qualified parties to design and build a 1 megawatt (MW) solar photovoltaic array on a canopy structure in the Daily Parking Lot at the Tucson International Airport, which will export all generated electricity to the utility grid. The project will require canopy structures, solar photovoltaic panels, electrical equipment including combiners, inverters, metering and utility interconnect, and control and communications equipment including an energy production monitoring system.
Contact: Sylvia Granillo, 520-573-4821]]> ComEd asks to boost rates, citing smart grid http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10024 Tue, 01 May 2012 17:43:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10024 (Crain's) — Commonwealth Edison Co. has filed to boost its electricity rates by nearly a dollar per month next year to finance local power-grid improvements it's making under the 2011 “smart grid” law that permitted the utility to hike its charges annually per a set formula...

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]]> Energy Department Launches Online Tool to Help Consumers Save Money on Energy Bills http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10023 Tue, 01 May 2012 13:19:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10023
Read the full story]]> Large northwest suburban electricity buying group chooses Integrys http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10021 Mon, 30 Apr 2012 11:10:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10021 (Crain's) — Integrys Energy Services has won the biggest prize in the suburban residential electricity market. A consortium of seven northwest suburbs, including Buffalo Grove and Arlington Heights, late last week selected the sister company of Chicago-based Peoples Gas from eight qualified bidders...

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]]> China's New Rare Earth Policies Could Further Diminish Exports Of Critical Minerals, Weakening Western Manufacturers http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10018 Sat, 28 Apr 2012 10:43:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10018 China is moving ahead with efforts to impose new controls and oversight on its critical rare earths industry, a move that could further raise the minerals' prices and curtail the availability of key materials for U.S. and other Western manufacturers and technology companies...

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]]> ENERGY STAR Update for April 27, 2012 http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10011 Fri, 27 Apr 2012 11:22:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10011 Courtesy of UL / ENERGY STAR

ENERGY STAR Luminaires v1.1 specification became effective
The ENERGY STAR Luminaires v1.1 specification has become effective on April 1. This new specification replaces the Residential Light Fixtures v4.2 and Solid State Lighting Luminaires v1.3 specifications. Manufacturers are encouraged to verify that their products are still listed on the Energy Star website.  Products that have not been tested to the Luminaires v1.1 specification will need to be tested and re-submitted through an EPA-approved certification body.
 

IES LM-82-12 released
On, March 27, the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) published IES LM-82-12, Characterization of LED Light Engines and LED Lamps for Electrical and Photometric Properties as a Function of Temperature. Copies of the document are available for purchase at www.ies.org. The release of this document means that laboratories may now apply for U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recognition under the Solid State (Non-directional) lighting category that includes the LM-82-12 method of measurement.
 

New ENERGY STAR Lamps V1.0 specification
Development of the new ENERGY STAR Lamps V1.0 specification continues. As with the new Luminaires V1.1 specification, this new specification will merge the scope of the Compact Fluorescent Lamps V4.3 and Integral LED Lamps V1.4 specifications into one technology-neutral specification. EPA is taking this opportunity to further increase the performance requirements for quality and reliability of lamps carrying the ENERGY STAR label.
 

Draft 3 ENERGY STAR Version 2.0 Water Heaters specification
The ENERGY STAR specification for Water Heaters is currently under revision. On March 19, EPA released Draft 3 ENERGY STAR Version 2.0 Water Heaters specification.
 

Final Draft Version 6.0 ENERGY STAR Clothes Washer specification
On March 29, US EPA released the Final Draft Version 6.0 ENERGY STAR Clothes Washer specification, proposing changes to address Combination (All-in-One) Washer-Dryers. 
 

ENERGY STAR specification for commercial ice makers is under revision
The ENERGY STAR specification for commercial ice makers is currently under revision. Final Draft ENERGY STAR Automatic Commercial Ice Makers Test Method was released on March 29, 2012. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit comments on this proposal.
 

 
ENERGY STAR® Version 4.0 Set-top Boxes specification
On March 20, the EPA announced their efforts to review the ENERGY STAR® Version 4.0 Set-top Boxes specification. EPA also hosted a webinar on April 5, 2012 to discuss the issues for consideration and next steps for the Version 4.1 specification.
 

Final Draft Version 1.0 ENERGY STAR UPS specification
EPA is currently developing a new product specification for Uninterruptible Power Supplies. On April 6, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) just released the Final Draft Version 1.0 ENERGY STAR Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) specification and test method. Stakeholders are encouraged to review the Draft Final and provide written comments to EPA.
 

Draft 1 Version 6.0 ENERGY STAR Specification for Computers
On February 2, 2012, the EPA announced the release of the Draft 1 Version 6.0 ENERGY STAR Specification for Computers.  A webinar was held on March 1, 2012 to discuss specifics and provide feedback in regards to the draft.  Version 6.0 is tentatively scheduled to be finalized in late June/early July 2012.
 

Draft 1 Version 1.0 ENERGY STAR Small Network Equipment (SNE) specification
On February 28, 2012, the EPA announced the release of the Draft 1 Version 1.0 ENERGY STAR Small Network Equipment (SNE) specification.  A webinar was held on March 23, 2012 to discuss specifics and provide feedback in regards to the draft.  Version 1.0 is tentatively scheduled to be finalized in June 2012.
 

Draft 1 Version 2.0 ENERGY STAR Imaging Equipment specification
On March 7, 2012, an in-person stakeholder meeting was held in Washington, DC to discuss the Draft 1 Version 2.0 ENERGY STAR Imaging Equipment specification.  Version 2.0 is tentatively scheduled to be finalized in June 2012 with an effective date of March 2013.

 
 
Entries in the Desktop and Notebook Dataset
On March 23, 2012, as discussed during the March 1st ENERGY STAR Computers webinar, EPA has executed a plant to address stakeholder concerns over entries in the Desktop and Notebook Dataset. EPA has worked with ITI over the past few weeks to review this feedback and revise portions of its dataset. A memorandum with the results of an updated EPA analysis of base TEC levels was released.

 
National Awareness of ENERGY STAR® for 2011
EPA released the report of National Awareness of ENERGY STAR® for 2011. This report discusses the results of the CEE 2011 ENERGY STAR Household Survey. In the report, it shows eighty-four percent of households recognized the ENERGY STAR label when shown the label. Moreover, eighty-five percent of households had a high or general understanding of the label's purpose. Furthermore, the proportion of households that demonstrated a general understanding was small compared with the proportion that demonstrated a high understanding (10 percent versus 75 percent). 
]]> FTC and DOE Lighting Facts labels - how do they differ? http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9983 Fri, 27 Apr 2012 09:49:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9983 The FTC label has been designed to simplify lighting purchases for consumers while the DOE Lighting Facts label serves lighting designers and contractors. GE Lighting has also introduced color-coded packaging for its lamps....

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]]> This Week at EIA - 04/26/2012 http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10004 Fri, 27 Apr 2012 09:40:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10004 REGULARLY SCHEDULED WEEKLY RELEASES:

 

Gasoline and Diesel Fuel Update (4/23/2012)
Presents average weekly retail on-highway diesel fuel prices for the U.S., 8 regions, and the State of California and average weekly retail gasoline prices at the national and regional levels, and for selected cities and States.
 
The Coal News and Markets Report for week ended 4/20/2012 (4/23/2012)
Contains information for the week and spot prices:
 
This Week in Petroleum (4/25/2012)
Provides analysis, data, and charts of the latest weekly petroleum supply and price data.
 
Weekly Petroleum Status Report, Data for Week Ending 4/20/2012 (4/25/2012)
Contains timely information on supply and selected prices of crude oil and principal petroleum products in the context of historical data and forecasts.
 
Weekly Natural Gas Storage Report (4/26/2012)
Contains weekly estimates of natural gas in underground storage for the United States and three regions of the United States.
 
Natural Gas Weekly Update (4/26/2012)
Contains weekly updates of natural gas market prices, latest storage level estimates, recent lower 48 NOAA weather data, and other market activity or events.
 
Coal Production for Week Ended 4/21/2012 (4/26/2012)
Contains an overview of U.S. weekly coal production.
 

OTHER RELEASES THIS WEEK:
 
U.S. summer gasoline demand expected to be at 11-year low (04/26/2012)
U.S. gasoline demand this summer is expected to be the lowest in 11 years, while the average summer fuel price is forecast to be at a record level. High prices at the pump—mostly a result of global crude oil prices—and the use of more efficient vehicles both encourage reduced gasoline consumption.
 
State Nuclear Profiles (04/26/2012)
Presents a summary of current and recent historical data for the nuclear power industry. The data focuses on net summer capacity and net generation for each state, as well as plant specific information for 2010.
 
U.S. coal consumption fell while exports increased during the fourth quarter of 2011 (04/25/2012)
Domestic coal consumption during the fourth quarter of 2011 decreased by 18.8% from the third quarter of 2011 to 227.1 million short tons, which was the lowest level since the second quarter of 1995. This decline was primarily the result of lower consumption in the electric power sector. However, declines in domestic coal use were partially offset by rising coal exports to Asia and Europe.
 
Project sponsors are seeking Federal approval to export domestic natural gas (04/24/2012)
Liquefied natural gas (LNG) project sponsors have been applying to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) for authorization to export LNG produced from domestic natural gas and to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for approval to build liquefaction facilities to serve export markets (see map). A higher price for LNG in international markets is a major motivation for these applications.
 
Eagle Ford oil and natural gas well starts rose sharply in first quarter 2012 (04/23/2012)
New well starts in the Eagle Ford region in Texas increased 110 % from January through March 2012 compared to the same period in 2011. In April, the active rig count set a new high — for the Eagle Ford play — of 217 units. Increased drilling and rig deployment translated into higher crude oil and condensate production, which is projected to average over 500 thousand barrels per day (bbl/d) in April 2012, up from 182 thousand bbl/d in April 2011. Eagle Ford crude oil production is approaching crude oil production in the Bakken formation.
 
State Energy Data System: Nuclear Energy Through 2010 (04/20/2012)
Annual State-level estimates of consumption, prices, and expenditures for nuclear energy.
 
What are natural gas liquids and how are they used? (04/20/2012)
Natural gas liquids (NGLs) are hydrocarbons—in the same family of molecules as natural gas and crude oil, composed exclusively of carbon and hydrogen. There are many uses for NGLs, spanning nearly all sectors of the economy. Higher crude oil prices have contributed to increased NGL prices and, in turn, provided incentives to drill in liquids-rich resources with significant NGL content.
 
Natural gas prices near 10-year low amid mild weather, higher supplies in winter 2011-12(04/19/2012)
Natural gas prices continued their downward trend this winter as a result of continued high production levels, mild weather limiting heating demand, and robust storage. On March 31—the end of what is considered the winter for the natural gas market—spot natural gas prices at the Henry Hub approached $2 per million British thermal units. On April 18, the natural gas spot price at Henry Hub was $1.87/MMBtu.
 
Housing Unit Size data from the 2009 Residential Energy Consumption Survey (RECS) (04/19/2012)
Detailed data for housing unit size estimates from the 2009 Residential Energy Consumption Survey (RECS) include total and average square footage by selected home characteristics, including geography, housing type, and income level. This data series also includes separate estimates for heated and cooled square footage.
 
Wholesale Market Data (04/19/2012)
Spreadsheets contain peak prices, volumes, and the number of transactions at ten electricity trading hubs covering most regions of the United States. Data from ICE (IntercontinentalExchange) through April 13, 2012.
]]> Nation needs new energy policy, AEP president says http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10003 Fri, 27 Apr 2012 09:32:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10003 The president and CEO of American Electric Power, giving a speech in the shadow of the White House today, had a fairly direct message to its occupant: Develop a comprehensive energy policy and do it soon...

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]]> Public split over elimination of U.S. energy subsidies, poll finds http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10002 Fri, 27 Apr 2012 09:28:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10002 The American public is divided about whether to eliminate federal subsidies for any form of energy and is giving less support to nuclear power and U.S. funding of renewable energy, a new poll has found. Fifty-four percent of respondents opposed doing away with subsidies for oil, gas, coal, nuclear or renewable energy, while 47 percent...

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]]> Cree announces new LED street lights; ALSI enhances fixtures http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/10001 Fri, 27 Apr 2012 06:53:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=10001 Appalachian Lighting Systems (ALSI) now rates its ALLED outdoor fixtures as capable of withstanding 30 10 kVA surge events making the products more reliable in general and especially suitable for heavy-lightning environments...

Cree Lighting says that the new XSP outdoor fixture offers double the lumens per dollar relative to prior Cree street lights. Vice president and general manager Christopher Ruud said...

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]]> ZigBee Alliance completes LED-centric Light Link standard http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9982 Thu, 26 Apr 2012 07:46:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9982 Targeted at the residential space, the ZigBee Light Link standard promises to enable consumers to simply deploy solid-state lighting (SSL) with adaptive controls without having a complex dedicated control system. The standard is intended to enable interoperable LED-based lighting, sensors, timers, switches and other elements from multiple vendors that connect over the ZigBee wireless mesh network...

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]]> Benchmarks for Sustainability http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9981 Thu, 26 Apr 2012 05:42:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9981 The theme of the upcoming ULI Spring Meeting, "The Power to Lead, the Energy to Thrive," emphasizes the Institute’s ongoing commitment to leadership in environmentally conscious, energy-efficient building practices. It plays on ULI’s enduring leadership in the sustainable development movement, defined by the critical assessment of industry best practices associated with land conservation, smart growth strategies...

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]]> US Solar Market Will Explode within Five Years http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9980 Thu, 26 Apr 2012 05:35:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9980 Within the next five years solar energy in a large portion of the US will be cheaper than power from the grid. Costs of solar panels and installation keep moving down, while the transportation costs of electricity move up. When solar power reaches the `holy grail` of grid parity the solar market in the US will boost, and a sleeping giant will awake, experts predict. "The awakening of the US solar market will be driven by grid parity within each region...

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]]> Wind power 'can be cheaper' than photovoltaics, study says http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9979 Thu, 26 Apr 2012 05:31:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9979 Generating wind energy is more than twice as cheap as solar photovoltaic (PV) energy production, a study of alternative energy in six developing countries has found.The findings, published in Nature Climate Change last week (15 April), could help inform global debates on financing initiatives aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions in developing countries...

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]]> U.S. tariffs on Chinese solar cells fuel debate about green jobs http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9977 Wed, 25 Apr 2012 13:48:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9977 A simmering trade dispute is highlighting a debate about the kinds of jobs America can sustain in a greening economy. The Obama administration's recent decision to slap import tariffs on Chinese solar cells was hailed by some domestic solar manufacturers as a victory for job creation...

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]]> Energy Department Announces up to $2.5 Million to Deploy Fuel Cell Powered Baggage Vehicles at Commercial Airports http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9975 Wed, 25 Apr 2012 13:28:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9975 As part of President Obama's all-of-the-above energy strategy to reduce America's reliance on foreign oil, the Energy Department today announced up to $2.5 million available this year to demonstrate and deploy fuel cell electric vehicles for transporting passenger baggage at major U.S. airports.

The projects selected for funding will demonstrate first-generation, fuel cell powered baggage towing tractors under real-world operating conditions, and collect and analyze data to test their performance and cost-effectiveness. This funding, part of the Department's commitment to U.S. leadership in advanced fuel cell research and development, will help industry bring advanced fuel cell technologies into emerging markets and provide airlines and airports with new choices for ground support operations that cut energy costs, air pollution, and petroleum use.

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]]> Does Chaos Loom for Electrical Power Market? http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9960 Wed, 25 Apr 2012 08:52:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9960 (Crain's) — It's official: Chaos has come to Northern Illinois' electricity market.
News that the city of Chicago is exploring whether to negotiate a cheaper electricity contract with an alternative supplier to Commonwealth Edison Co. on behalf of its nearly 3 million residents holds big implications for the future of power supply in the region...

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]]> Everlight and Nichia re-ignite LED patent battle http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9958 Wed, 25 Apr 2012 06:53:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9958 Leading LED chip manufacturers Nichia and Everlight, headquartered in Japan and Taiwan respectively, have re-ignited a long-running feud with two new lawsuits claiming patent infringement. Nichia, regarded as the world’s largest maker of white LEDs by sales, kicked off the new round of litigation after a recent court victory in Germany...

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]]> Electrical sub-metering can bring big energy savings http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9956 Wed, 25 Apr 2012 06:46:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9956 There are nearly 410,000 apartment and condominium units in Ontario that could be—but aren’t—individually monitored for their electricity consumption. Instead, the buildings in which they’re located engage in “bulk” billing, meaning a single bill is issued for an entire building. The amount on that bill is equally divided by the number of individual residential units in that building...

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]]> Energy Department Announces Funding to Develop "Plug-and-Play" Solar Energy Systems for Homeowners http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9955 Wed, 25 Apr 2012 06:17:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9955 As part of the Energy Department's SunShot Initiative, U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu today announced up to $5 million available this year to develop "plug-and-play" photovoltaic (PV) systems that can be purchased, installed, and operational in one day.

This effort is part of the Department's broader strategy to spur solar power deployment by reducing non-hardware, or "soft" costs, such as installation, permitting, and interconnection, which currently amount to more than half of the total cost of residential systems. The funding will help drive innovations to fundamentally change the design and installation of residential PV systems, reducing costs for homeowners and simplifying installations and grid connectivity.

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]]> Flywheels for Backup Power http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9953 Tue, 24 Apr 2012 15:00:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9953 Extreme diligence in maintaining continuous operating power to health facilities is paramount. If there is a glitch in the IT infrastructure, medical records could be lost, diagnostic outcomes scrubbed or prescriptions altered. Keeping the computer servers up and running is a priority — regardless the state of the incoming utility power...

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]]> How Chinese Panels Are Impacting the European Solar Market http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9950 Tue, 24 Apr 2012 06:17:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9950 In recent years, the global price of PV modules has undergone a rapid and sustained period of decline. In light of scaled back policy in key markets and recent bankruptcy announcements, the questions remain: How exactly is Chinese PV module pricing affecting the European market? And how best should European governments and solar companies react...?

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]]> ComEd plans to deploy 4 million smart meters in next decade http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9947 Tue, 24 Apr 2012 05:05:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9947 An additional 130,000 Commonwealth Edison customers who live along the Eisenhower Expressway corridor will get “smart” meters — digital two-way communications devices — as early as late summer, allowing them to see by online connections how to change their home energy use to get rebates and other savings, ComEd officials said Monday...

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]]> Leading Buffalo Grove Solutions Provider Tests Breakthrough Technology Promising a Sustainable Supply of Margaritas http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9942 Mon, 23 Apr 2012 12:50:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9942 Beta testing to be performed on May 4, 2012. LEED points are not available at this time but Connexion is seeking willing guinea pigs for this groundbreaking experiment.

April 24, 2012, Buffalo Grove, IL - Connexion, a leading provider of electrical and energy solutions to the construction trade, manufacturing, facility management firms and commercial businesses has formed a strategic alliance with Binny's, Beverage Depot a leader in diversified beverage solutions. This unique arrangement will enable Connexion to further expand their annual Cinco de Mayo mayhem and to address the more complex needs of larger clients, looking for an endless supply of margaritas and other iconic, Mexican beverages. "We listened to what our clients were asking for and just as we've done for their facility needs - we came up with an innovative solution to address this need." said Dan Dobski, Connexion Director of Marketing. The tequila being used for this groundbreaking technology...

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]]> LEDs: Weighing between cost and efficiency http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9941 Mon, 23 Apr 2012 10:03:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9941 Lighting consumes a major part of electricity in day-to-day life. In commercial buildings, it is lighting fixtures that consume most of the electricity. According to an estimate, it consumes three times the energy consumption of air conditioning. The demand for energy efficiency has, therefore, brought forward an immediate need for more energy-efficient products in lighting sector and also has pushed market towards efficient products like...

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]]> New Water Calculator Launched by Growing Blue http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9940 Mon, 23 Apr 2012 10:00:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9940 Growing Blue has launched the Water Impact Index (WIIX) Calculator, a new web-based tool designed to measure and reduce the impact of human activity on local water resources. Available online at www.growingblue.com, the new calculator was designed by Growing Blue founding partner Veolia Water. Most water footprint calculators use volume of water as the indicator to assess impact on the water resource...

Read the full press release 

]]> Local Advocate Hospitals Named Amongst ASHE Energy Award Winners http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9939 Mon, 23 Apr 2012 09:54:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9939 "ASHE is a long-standing partner of EPA's ENERGY STAR program and their E2C award winning hospitals demonstrate that energy efficiency is one of the fastest and easiest ways to save money, protect the climate and improve the health of all Americans," said Clark Reed, national program manager for ENERGY STAR Commercial Building Outreach at the U.S. EPA, in a written statement...

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]]> Field Trial: Level 3 Quick-Charging Two EVs http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9938 Mon, 23 Apr 2012 09:51:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9938 After more than a year with our 2011 Nissan Leaf, we finally got the opportunity last week to charge it using one of the first public Level 3 quick-chargers installed in Chicago. We purchased our Leaf with a dedicated quick-charge port (then a $700 option, now standard on the SL trim level), but with the exception of an experimental mobile unit from Real Power that visited us last summer, the high-voltage quick chargers that were part of the promise of making life with an electric vehicle easier, failed to appear...

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]]> Commercial building owners can save big with energy controls http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9937 Mon, 23 Apr 2012 09:48:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9937 U.S. commercial building owners could save an average of 38% on their heating and cooling bills if they installed a handful of energy efficiency controls that make their heating, ventilation and air conditioning, also known as HVAC, systems more energy efficient, according to a recent report from the Department of Energy's Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. The estimated savings were based on computer modeling and simulation of building energy usage. The controls that could provide these savings are not widely available commercially, but the report's authors hope their analysis will encourage manufacturers to expand their...

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]]> GE Beats Estimates as Energy Sales Buoy Industrial Division http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9936 Mon, 23 Apr 2012 09:45:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9936 General Electric Co. earnings topped analysts' estimates for the first quarter as profit gains at the energy business, its largest industrial division, outpaced finance for the first time in two years...

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]]> LED lights prove to be a powerful growing tool http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9935 Mon, 23 Apr 2012 09:40:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9935 “Everyone says it’s so critical to have the right light initially,” Karlsson said. With this experiment she learned that it might be OK to use LEDs, which are more energy efficient than high-pressure sodium lamps, to start flowers or seeds...

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]]> Waste Management dedicates Illinois' largest commercial CNG fueling facility in Stickney http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9934 Mon, 23 Apr 2012 09:38:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9934 Waste Management of Illinois, Inc. today signaled its commitment to using trucks powered by clean-burning fuels in dedicating the largest commercial compressed natural gas (CNG) fueling facility in Illinois.

The facility, at 5050 W. Pershing Road, Stickney, is equipped with 55 "slow-fuel" stations for the Company's growing CNG fleet of trucks. The Company currently operates more than 30 CNG trucks in the Chicago area. It will have more than 80 in the area by year end, making it Illinois' largest...

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]]> 5 Sustainable Green Ideas for Your Portfolio http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9932 Mon, 23 Apr 2012 08:56:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9932 Since today is Earth Day, I thought it would be worthwhile to take a look at what I consider to be five sustainable green ideas for your portfolio. Remember, these five companies are all having a positive impact on the environment, but they're also sustainable on an operational basis. Perhaps that will explain why you won't find any solar or biofuel producers on my list -- because pricing and profitability in these sectors is more or less a pipe dream right now...

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]]> Going green is as good as gold for Midwest business http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9931 Mon, 23 Apr 2012 08:53:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9931 Earth Day 1970 sounded an alarm. It launched the modern environmental movement. Today, the growing green economy is helping to drive the Midwest's and our nation's economic recovery. Energy-efficient equipment and appliances, wind and solar energy development, cleaner more fuel efficient cars and modern high-performance rail development are good for job creation, economic growth and the environment.

Nonetheless, some defensive polluters and politicized critics are hauling out the myth that we must choose between job creation and economic growth. Let's look at the facts...

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]]> Leviton Unveils 32 Amp Home Charging Station to Meet Requirements of Next Generation of Electric Vehicles http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9930 Mon, 23 Apr 2012 08:48:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9930 Leviton has added a new project to its Evr-Green™ line of residential, commercial and public electric vehicle charging systems – the Evr-Green 320 Level 2 Home Charging Station. “The new device provides up to 32 amps at 240 volts AC (7.7 kW output) – reducing the charge time of any SAE J1772™ compatible electric vehicle by seven percent when compared to leading competitors. The charging station has been specifically designed to meet the needs of the next generation electric vehicles with larger on-board chargers, enabling consumers to ‘future-proof’ their charging needs...”

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]]> Rare Earth Prices Will Continue Decline, Says TRU Rare Earth Consultants: but the Price Outlook Still Shows High Risk Factor for Developing Western REE Projects http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9929 Mon, 23 Apr 2012 08:45:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9929 Rare earth metals consultants TRU Group says that recent attempts by Chinese suppliers to halt the six-month old steep decline in REE prices is likely to fail even though the latest February export data for rare earth oxides prices strengthened to US$144,000 per t-REO up significantly over the January figure. Export price levels in 2012 are still more than three times the average for 2010, before the crisis in supply began when China unexpectedly restricted exports. China supplies over ninety per cent of global rare earths and sets REE prices...

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]]> China to Give Stimulus for Development of Electric Vehicles http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9928 Mon, 23 Apr 2012 08:38:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9928 China, the world’s biggest emitter of greenhouse gases, said it will provide financial support and individual subsidies to promote the use and development of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. The government will broaden pilot programs, build recharging facilities and develop a plan to recycle batteries, as part of a drive to have 500,000 such vehicles by 2015...

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]]> Electric vehicle sales slow as reality sets in http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9927 Mon, 23 Apr 2012 08:35:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9927 The electric vehicle market isn't exactly booming today. Yes, there may be several reasons, but mostly it's the price.
Indeed, battery packs are still quite costly and raise the price of EVs significantly, prompting many to opt for gas-powered vehicles intstead. Think about it - the price of the battery packs in Ford's EV is nearly half the price of the car...

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]]> NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston Township High School Take Top Honors in 'Big 7 Savers Challenge' http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9926 Mon, 23 Apr 2012 08:30:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9926 NorthShore University HealthSystem and Evanston Township High School (ETHS) have won the "Big 7 Savers Challenge," a yearlong energy-efficiency competition that used a free online service, CUBenergysaver.com, to save enough electricity and money to equal 30 years of power bills, officials from Evanston and the Citizens Utility Board (CUB) announced Wednesday...

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]]> Earth Day Chicago 2012: 12 Simple Ways to Save Energy http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9925 Mon, 23 Apr 2012 08:28:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9925 To commemorate Earth Day, Chicagoans can have a meaningful impact on the environment by doing just one simple thing. Here's an easy and effective one: wash laundry in cold water. The heating of water is one of the largest uses of energy in a typical American household, accounting for up to 80 percent of the energy used per wash load. Consider the benefits...

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]]> LED stocks rise on reports of more orders http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9924 Mon, 23 Apr 2012 08:25:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9924 Shares of light emitting diode (LED) lighting vendors moved higher in Taipei yesterday after local media reported a surge in orders for several major companies in the sector in reaction to looming electricity rate hikes, dealers said...

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]]> Does Siemens have world's most efficient LED? http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9923 Mon, 23 Apr 2012 08:19:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9923 So, is this new Osram module really twice as efficient as the going LED bulbs? An Osram technologist told me in broken English that unlike LED bulbs, the PrevaLED was designed from the ground up for efficiency, not for retrofitting into existing sockets. She said she had no information on pricing - perhaps a sign that PrevaLED won’t be cheap, which probably explains why Osram is positioning it for the commercial market rather than residential...

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]]> Suburban Electrical Aggregation Update 4/23/2012 http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9922 Mon, 23 Apr 2012 08:14:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9922 South Elgin ready to find cheaper electricity rates
“They (those who have already switched) will not come over on the load data” of customers that ComEd will provide, said Maribeth Shover, director of customer service form the Northern Illinois Municipal Electric Collaborative (NIMEC)...
Orland Park pushing to have electrical supplier in place by this summer
Grimes, speaking April 16 during the second public hearing on Orland Park's Electricity Aggregation Program, said village officials would have to approve a supplier recommended by the Northern Illinois Municipal Electric Cooperative, which is reviewing ...

Gilberts gets pitch for green energy
Board members previously contracted with Northern Illinois Municipal Electric Collaborative Inc. (NIMEC) as their agent in seeking ComEd alternatives. NIMEC is collecting bids on behalf of the village and will present the best bids to the board later ...

]]> Honda to Reuse Rare Earth Metals Contained in Used Parts http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9921 Mon, 23 Apr 2012 08:10:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9921
Read the full press release]]> ASHRAE Government Affairs Update, 4/20/2012 http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9920 Mon, 23 Apr 2012 07:58:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9920 House Funding Subcommittee Approves $5 Million Reduction for EIA, Threatening 2012 CBECS
 
This week the House Energy & Water Development Appropriations Subcommittee approved a bill that would reduce fiscal year 2013 funding to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) by $5 million, and reduce funding to the U.S. Department of Energy by $358 million, compared to current levels.
 
 
The proposed funding reductions threaten to halt progress on the 2012 edition of the Commercial Buildings Energy Consumption Survey (CBECS). Work on the next edition of the Survey has already been suspended once due to Congressional funding cuts. The most recent edition of CBECS is nearly a decade old – from 2003.
 
 
The Commercial Buildings Energy Consumption Survey is a national sample survey that collects information on the stock of U.S. commercial buildings, their energy-related building characteristics, and their energy consumption and expenditures. CBECS data are critical to the building community because they help form the basis for understanding patterns of energy use, informing the decisions of the industry and key policymakers and government programs. For instance, CBECS data are used by ASHRAE in the development of our building energy efficiency standards, which are used by the federal government and most states. CBECS data are also used by many federal and private sector programs in their efforts to promote building efficiency.
 
 
The House Subcommittee-approved numbers are not yet final – the House would still need to pass this bill, and the Senate will likely markup their own version. This is an issue that ASHRAE will closely be monitoring. For more information or to get involved, please contact WashDC@ashrae.org.
 
 
 
High-Performance Building Week Events Announced
 
The 2012 High-Performance Building Week runs from May 14 to 18. The growing schedule of events (all held in Washington, DC) is now available on http://www.hpbccc.org/hpb2012week.php.
 
 
High-Performance Building Week is organized by the High-Performance Building Congressional Caucus Coalition, and seeks to educate and share information among policymakers, the building community, and general public on the benefits of high-performance buildings, while exploring options for overcoming market, policy, and other barriers to improving the nation’s building stock.
 
 
Do you have a high-performance building-related event in Washington, DC or elsewhere that you’d like listed on the High-Performance Building Week calendar? If so, then email WashDC@ashrae.org, and we’ll be happy to help you.
 
 
 
High-Performance Building Caucus Examines the Business Case for Energy Efficiency Improvements to Existing Buildings
 
How can the building industry, policymakers, the financial community, and others increase the adoption of energy efficiency retrofits and renovations in existing buildings? These were the issues addressed at a recent High-Performance Building Congressional Caucus Coalition (HPBCCC) briefing on Capitol Hill. The briefing featured presentations from (presentation titles are listed above speakers' names):
 
 
Market Opportunity for Retrofits and Renovations and How to Make the Business Case for Energy Efficiency
 
Michele A. Russo, LEED AP
Director, Green Content & Research Communications
McGraw-Hill Construction
 
 
The Business Case for Building Owners and Managers
 
Bruce D. Hunn, Ph.D.
Fellow ASHRAE
Consultant in Building Energy Analysis
 
 
A Business Case for Multi-Tenanted Office Buildings: Creating a Win for Owners, Managers and Tenants
 
Richard W. Greninger, CPM
Vice Chair, BOMA International
Managing Partner, Operations, Carr Properties
 
 
All presentations can be viewed at http://www.hpbccc.org/04112012.php.
 
 
Coalitions Forming between ASHRAE Members and Regional Energy Efficiency Groups
 
Working in concert with like-minded organizations is a basic tenet of advocacy at all levels of government – and now, U.S. ASHRAE members nationwide have the opportunity to work in tandem with influential energy efficiency advocates.
 
 
There are six regional energy efficiency organizations (REEOs), which serve as guiding forces in the development of strong and sound energy policy in their respective spheres of influence:
 
 
ASHRAE regional and chapter leaders are taking advantage of the REEOs’ 30,000-foot view of stringent energy codes and standards by discussing with these organizations ways in which ASHRAE can work with them to further the cause of greater efficiency in the built environment at their communities.
 
 
If you are interested in learning more about the REEO in your part of the U.S., please contact the Government Affairs Office at WashDC@ashrae.org and we will get you up-to-speed and put you in touch with the right people.
]]> Chicago's Energy Savers Program Proves Successful http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9919 Mon, 23 Apr 2012 07:53:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9919 Energy efficiency is out-performing glacially slow bank lending and home buying to provide jobs and more livable rental housing in South and West Side neighborhoods, as Chicago’s Energy Savers program is proving.

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]]> Zenn raises $2-million, without its electric car http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9917 Fri, 20 Apr 2012 07:31:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9917 Just a few years ago, Zenn Motor Company, Canada’s zero-emission car maker, had tons of buzz. Environmentalism was all the rage, consumers had high discretionary incomes and the company had enough money to splurge on TV commercials...

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]]> The Pending Subsidy Cliff, And the Way Out http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9916 Fri, 20 Apr 2012 07:28:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9916 New Hampshire, U.S.A. -- It's a daunting reality, yet one that's been years in the making. And it's a scenario that's shaping up from the wind-swept coasts of California to the solar rooftops of New Jersey. The renewables industries — all of them — are not only approaching a subsidy cliff. They already have one foot dangling over the edge...

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]]> Solar, wind or energy improvements made easier with incentives by Tennessee Valley Authority http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9915 Fri, 20 Apr 2012 06:58:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9915 If you’re looking to install solar, wind or energy efficiency improvements to your home or business, you’re in luck if you live in the Tennessee Valley Authority service area. If, however, you are served by American Electric Power, as is most of Southwest Virginia through subsidiary Appalachian Power, the project may present some challenges...

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]]> PG&E Ranked as Nation's Top Utility for Solar Installations http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9914 Fri, 20 Apr 2012 06:54:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9914 A new survey by the Solar Electric Power Association (SEPA) ranks Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) as the nation's top electric utility in the amount of solar power added to its system in 2011. PG&E is first in the Annual Solar Megawatts category of the more than 240 utilities that participated in SEPA's 2011 Utility Solar Rankings survey...

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]]> AEP ad casts other suppliers as villains http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9912 Fri, 20 Apr 2012 06:41:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9912 American Electric Power is paying for the ad through an organization called FairEnergyOhio.org, portraying itself as the girl just trying to run her business and casting FirstEnergy as the villain. The 30-second spot, titled “Middle Man,” began airing this week on television and on YouTube...

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]]> Study: Charging up electric cars could create more emissions than fueling up http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9911 Fri, 20 Apr 2012 06:38:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9911 "Today, in Michigan, our analysis is an electric vehicle is as good as some of the best gas vehicles and some hybrids, and if Michigan continues to invest in renewable energy, it can go from being a 'good region' to a 'best region,' " said Don Anair, one of the researchers...

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]]> Solar shakeout deepens with layoffs of 2,000 http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9910 Fri, 20 Apr 2012 06:35:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9910 First Solar Inc.'s decision to fire 30 percent of its staff and reduce production shows that even the biggest solar-panel makers aren't immune from the shakeout that's bankrupted at least eight companies on two continents in the past year...

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]]> House passes highway bill that requires pipeline http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9909 Fri, 20 Apr 2012 06:31:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9909 The House of Representatives on Wednesday extended current funding of surface transportation programs through Sept. 30, setting up a negotiation with Senate Democrats over multiyear spending. The bill attached language that would force the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to approve the Keystone XL pipeline and added a House-passed bill that would throw regulation of coal ash back to the states...

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]]> This Week at EIA - 04/19/2012 http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9908 Fri, 20 Apr 2012 06:01:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9908 REGULARLY SCHEDULED WEEKLY RELEASES:
 
Gasoline and Diesel Fuel Update (4/16/2012)
Presents average weekly retail on-highway diesel fuel prices for the U.S., 8 regions, and the State of California and average weekly retail gasoline prices at the national and regional levels, and for selected cities and States.
 
The Coal News and Markets Report for week ended 4/13/2012 (4/16/2012)
Contains information for the week and spot prices:
 
This Week in Petroleum (4/18/2012)
Provides analysis, data, and charts of the latest weekly petroleum supply and price data.
 
Weekly Petroleum Status Report, Data for Week Ending 4/13/2012 (4/18/2012)
Contains timely information on supply and selected prices of crude oil and principal petroleum products in the context of historical data and forecasts.
 
Weekly Natural Gas Storage Report (4/19/2012)
Contains weekly estimates of natural gas in underground storage for the United States and three regions of the United States.
 
Natural Gas Weekly Update (4/19/2012)
Contains weekly updates of natural gas market prices, latest storage level estimates, recent lower 48 NOAA weather data, and other market activity or events.
 
Coal Production for Week Ended 4/14/2012 (4/19/2012)
Contains an overview of U.S. weekly coal production.
 

OTHER RELEASES THIS WEEK:
 
Natural gas prices near 10-year low amid mild weather, higher supplies in winter 2011-12 (04/19/2012)
Natural gas prices continued their downward trend this winter as a result of continued high production levels, mild weather limiting heating demand, and robust storage. On March 31—the end of what is considered the winter for the natural gas market—spot natural gas prices at the Henry Hub approached $2 per million British thermal units. On April 18, the natural gas spot price at Henry Hub was $1.87/MMBtu.
 
Housing Unit Size data from the 2009 Residential Energy Consumption Survey (RECS) (04/19/2012)
Detailed data for housing unit size estimates from the 2009 Residential Energy Consumption Survey (RECS) include total and average square footage by selected home characteristics, including geography, housing type, and income level. This data series also includes separate estimates for heated and cooled square footage.
 
Wholesale Market Data (04/19/2012)
Spreadsheets contain peak prices, volumes, and the number of transactions at ten electricity trading hubs covering most regions of the United States. Data from ICE (IntercontinentalExchange) through April 13, 2012.
 
Sulfur content of heating oil to be reduced in northeastern states (04/18/2012)
Heating oil is a type of distillate fuel used mostly in the Northeastern U.S. for space heating during the winter months. Starting this summer, New York state will require that all heating oil used in the state contain less than 15 parts per million sulfur—the same requirement as on-road ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD). Soon, other states in the Northeast will require reductions in heating oil sulfur content as well (see figure below).
 
Quarterly Coal Report - 4th Quarter 2011 (04/18/2012)
Provides detailed quarterly coal and coke data for October-December 2011 and aggregated quarterly historical coal and coke data for 2005 through 4th Quarter 2011. With the exception of coal production, and electric utility stocks and consumption, all data for 2011 are final.
 
Williston Basin crude oil production and takeaway capacity are increasing (04/17/2012)
Crude oil production from the Williston Basin (primarily the Bakken formation) recently increased to more than 600 thousand barrels per day (bbl/d), according to Bentek Energy, LLC (Bentek), testing the ability of the transportation system—oil pipelines, truck deliveries, and rail—to move crude oil out of the area (see chart below). The current price gap between Bakken crude oil and West Texas Intermediate (WTI) shows the effects of this constraint. Bentek projects more transportation capacity coming online in 2012, potentially alleviating this constraint.
 
Quarterly Coal Distribution Report - 4th Quarter 2011 (04/16/2012)
Provides detailed U.S. domestic coal distribution data for October – December 2011 excluding waste coal and imports by coal origin, coal destination, mode of transportation, and consuming sector. Quarterly coal distribution data for 2011 are preliminary and will be superseded by the release of the corresponding “Annual Coal Distribution Report.”
 
Rail carloads of coal in first quarter of 2012 lowest since 1994 (04/16/2012)
Total U.S. carloads of coal by rail during the first quarter of 2012 fell to 1.55 million carloads, the lowest level for any quarter since the beginning of 1994, as demand for coal by the U.S. electricity sector decreased. The power sector accounts for more than 90% of the coal consumed in the United States. Although carloads of coal via rail are down, the share of total coal deliveries that are made via rail has grown in recent years. For this reason, the decline in coal carloads via rail understates the decline in total coal deliveries.
 
OPEC Revenues Fact Sheet (04/13/2012)
Based on projections from the EIA April 2012 Short-Term Energy Outlook (STEO), members of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) could earn an estimated $1,171 billion of net oil export revenues in 2012 and $1,133 billion in 2013.
 
Price ratio of crude oil to natural gas continues to increase (04/13/2012)
The ratio between the spot prices of crude oil and natural gas is a measure of the market's relative valuation of these two fuels. This ratio has been generally increasing since January 2009, but it has climbed rapidly in recent months. The ratio increased because of both increasing crude oil prices and decreasing natural gas prices. The crude oil-to-natural gas spot price ratio has implications for production and consumption.
 
State Energy Data System: Retail Electricity Sales Through 2010 (04/13/2012)
Annual State-level estimates of retail electricity consumption, prices, and expenditures.
 
Natural Gas Monthly (04/12/2012)
The March 2012 Natural Gas Monthly, featuring data for January 2012, has been released. The monthly production data sets a new high with dry production at 2,047 billion cubic feet (Bcf). A mild January created the lowest residential consumption, 802 Bcf, for January since 2006. Underground storage net withdrawals were also the lowest for January since 2006 at 545 Bcf. Additionally, Table 4 has been divided into two separate tables: Table 4 now shows imports data only; Table 5 shows exports data only. A new Table 6 has also been added, showing gross production data at the State level.
 
Global natural gas consumption doubled from 1980 to 2010 (04/12/2012)
Between 1980 and 2010, global consumption of dry natural gas rose from 53 trillion cubic feet (Tcf) to 113 Tcf. Although consumption in North America saw the slowest regional growth in percentage terms (29%), the region accounted for more than 25% of global natural gas consumption during all years in the period. Unlike petroleum, trends in regional natural gas consumption and production are more similar because of the limited role played by inter-continental movements of natural gas, at least until recently.
]]> Panasonic Enters into Renewable and Energy Efficiency Market http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9905 Thu, 19 Apr 2012 12:12:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9905 Panasonic Eco Solutions North America, is a new business unit that will focus on the design, implementation and financing of renewable energy and energy efficiency "end-to-end energy solutions" for the United States and Canada. The new unit also made public a strategic alliance with Denver, CO-based Renewable Social Benefit Funds, L3C to provide development and financing capabilities to organizations interested in solar photovoltaic solutions...

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]]> College Sustainability Report Card Suspended http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9904 Thu, 19 Apr 2012 11:55:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9904 The Sustainable Endowments Institute is suspending publication of its College Sustainability Report Card. The Green Report Card, as it is also known, began in 2007 providing evaluations of campus and endowment sustainability programs. This data revealed that many colleges and universities were not taking full advantage of the economic and environmental benefits offered by energy efficiency upgrades. As a result, the Sustainable Endowments Institute is now leading efforts to facilitate large-scale investment in energy efficiency with its recently launched Billion Dollar Green Challenge (GreenBillion.org)...

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]]> Are China's Sinovel, Goldwind Seeking Vestas Takeover? http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9898 Thu, 19 Apr 2012 06:51:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9898 New Hampshire, U.S.A. -- Vestas, an iconic name in the wind industry and beyond, is a possible target of takeover bids from two of its chief Chinese rivals, according to a report published by Danish newspaper Jyllands-Posten...

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]]> Small Businesses Challenged by Costs of Going Green http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9897 Thu, 19 Apr 2012 06:45:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9897 A new survey by Office Depot found that the most popular way small businesses are becoming more eco-friendly is by recycling more (cited by 82 percent of respondents). Small businesses are also reducing their ecological footprint by reducing waste (72 percent); buying energy-efficient products (61 percent); buying recycled products (60 percent); seeking non-toxic products (43 percent); and reducing water use (39 percent)...

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]]> Greenpeace says cloud computing 'dirty' http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9895 Thu, 19 Apr 2012 06:37:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9895
Read the full story]]> World's Most Efficient Wind Turbine to Make European Debut at 50-Megawatt Fina Enerji Project in Turkey http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9894 Thu, 19 Apr 2012 06:32:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9894 GE’s 1.6-100 Wind Turbine Offers Highest Productivity in Its Class; New Machine Builds on Experience of GE’s 17,500+ Unit Global Fleet. GE will supply 31 of its 1.6-100 wind turbines for Fina Enerji’s Tayakadin wind project in Istanbul, Turkey, which will supply enough clean, wind-generated electricity to meet the needs of more than 14,000 Turkish households...

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]]> China leading global efforts on clean coal http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9893 Thu, 19 Apr 2012 06:29:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9893 China is come a step closer to capturing and storing its carbon emissions with the launch of the GreenGen coal gasification plant in Tianjin, according to a report in Nature.Carbon capture and storage was highlighted by the leaders of the G8 group of nations in 2008, when they called for the development of 20 large-scale projects demonstrating carbon capture technologies by 2010. But with the exception of a few initiatives in Australia, Europe and the United States, many plans been delayed or cancelled.As a result, even though the state-owned Huaneng Group`s GreenGen project is more than a year...

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]]> As air pollution from fracking rises, EPA to set rules http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene/view/9892 Thu, 19 Apr 2012 06:21:00 CDT http://www.connexiones.com/the-green-scene?blogm=view&blogid=9892 The rush to capture natural gas from hydraulic fracturing has led to giant compressor stations alongside backyard swing sets, drilling rigs in sight of front porches, and huge flares at gas wells alongside country roads.
Air pollution from fracking includes the fumes breathed in by people nearby, as well as smog spread over a wide region and emissions of the greenhouse gas methane...

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