December, 2009
December 17, 2009
Blog
Is green energy our new plastics industry?
By Elisa Wood
December 17, 2009
If The Graduate were written today, Mr. McGuire’s career tip to Benjamin probably would have been “green,” rather than “plastics.” But it’s likely Benjamin would have responded in the same quizzical way: “Just how do you mean that, sir?”
It was difficult to envision the vast number of new products, businesses and careers that would emerge from the plastics industry following World War II. The same is true for the green energy industry today. A report issued December 16 by PricewaterhouseCoopers sheds some light. http://www.pwc.com/us/cleantechrevolution
To know where the business opportunities will be, watch the unusual alliances forming among industries, according to “Cleantech Revolution: Building Smart Infrastructures.” We see hints already as automakers, utilities, battery makers and communications providers ally in preparation for an expected $165 billion smart grid build-out. The report cites several examples, among them:
· Nissan’s partnership with San Diego Gas & Electric to build electric vehicle charging stations
· Echelon and T-Mobile’s deal to create wireless networks connecting utilities to smart meters
· Cisco assisting Duke Energy in building a smart grid
"As the build-out gains traction, it has the potential to support a proliferation of new businesses across sectors, much like the evolution of both the semiconductor industry and the Internet,” says Tim Carey, PWC U.S. clean technology leader.
Don’t be surprised, says the report, to see a national retail store chain partner with an electric battery maker to install charging stations nationwide for plug-in electric vehicles. A new wave of corporate mergers and acquisitions also could be in the cards. The opportunities are vast, especially when you consider the size of the smart grid. The US has 160 million households awaiting installation of smart meters. These new devices will require changes in the way we operate our electrical infrastructure, which encompasses 3,100 utilities, 10,000 power plants, 5,600 distributed energy facilities and 157,000 miles of high voltage transmission wires, says the report. How many better mousetraps can a system of this size support? More than we can imagine.
The clean technology, boom, however, depends heavily on consumer acceptance. If consumers find smart meters too complicated or plug-in hybrids unreliable, the game is over. To avoid this problem, organizations like the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy are focusing on understanding customer motivation. http://www.aceee.org/conf/09becc/09beccindex.htm.
Use of smart grid technologies must become “pervasive and ingrained,” says the PWC report. Sunil Sharan, of the Center for American Progress, sees the smart meter becoming like the Blackberry, “with all sorts of applications.” Indeed, energy industry insiders often describe the next game changer – whatever it will be – as the cell phone of energy. But given how integral electricity is to our everyday lives, clean technologies need to become everyman products. Out of the corporate alliances, the mergers, the breakthroughs and the investment deals, maybe it's not energy’s cell phone that will make fortunes, but its plastic wrap.
To comment on the blog, go to
http://energyefficiencymarkets.wordpress.com/ or
http://energyefficiencymarkets.blogspot.com/
Podcast
Capturing carbon
dioxide and recycling it part 2
Lisa Cohn of EE Markets continues her interview with Byron Elton, CEO of Carbon Sciences, about the company's work repurposing and recycling CO2 produced by coal plants and other industries. The more traditional method is to bury carbon dioxide underground, he explains.
To listen and subscribe to Energy Efficiency Markets Podcast, go to
http://www.realwriters.net/rew/rtlnkmr.htm
Coming Soon: Energy Efficiency Incentives for Businesses 2010
Volume 1: Eastern States
By Elisa Wood and Lisa Cohn
For information about pre-ordering the guide at reduced rates or advertising options, please e-mail us at realenergywriters@comcast.net
News
Consumers pick beauty over energy efficiency for home improvements
IEA: Copenhagen summit must spur energy efficiency
How 'cash for caulkers'
might work
http://money.cnn.com/2009/12/14/news/economy/energy_retrofits/
Clean energy technology announcements
http://www.energy.gov/news2009/8391.htm
Energy efficiency
technologies poised to offer major savings: Report
DOE announces tougher enforcement of appliance standards reporting requirements
http://www.energy.gov/news2009/8374.htm
Requests for Proposals
The New York State Energy Research Authority
The FlexTech Program from NYSERDA seeks customers interested in study
of efficiency, process improvement, peak-load reduction, energy procurement,
and peak-load curtailment plans for their facilities. The program also offers
analysis of possible combined heat & power and renewable generation
installations.
Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis through
December 15, 2011.
For technical questions please contact Clararose Voigt or Joanna Moore, cfv@nyserda.org.
For more information go to http://www.nyserda.org/funding/1746pon.asp
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania has created the Green Energy Revolving Loan Fund to
finance energy efficient projects. Applicants must demonstrate experience in
lending for energy efficiency and renewable energy projects; matching capital
leveraged beyond the minimum requirement; and the readiness to begin offering
loans.
Applications are due by January 6.
For more information go to http://www.recovery.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/impact/5996/energy_independence
The Maryland Energy Administration
The MEA is now offering low-interest loans through the EmPOWER Commercial and Industrial Energy Efficiency Loan Fund. Maryland businesses can qualify for up to $500,000 for electric efficiency projects, and $750,000 for combined electric and gas/fuel oil efficiency projects with a minimum $35,000 for energy efficiency projects. Eligible energy efficiency projects may include building weatherization, lighting technology upgrades, HVAC replacements or upgrades, and commercial refrigeration equipment upgrades.
Awards will be made on a first-come, first-served basis within utility service territory funding pools through February 12.
Questions should be directed to Jesse Fulton, jfulton@energy.state.md.us, (410) 260-7184.
For more information go to
http://www.energy.maryland.gov/incentives/business/commercialIndustrialEnergyEfficiencyLoanFund.asp
The New Jersey Economic Development Authority
Money is available for companies to site Class I renewable energy or energy efficiency product manufacturing facilities in New Jersey. New Jersey clean technology manufacturers can receive funding for project assessment and design, or project construction and operation.
Applications are now being accepted in an open, rolling process and will be reviewed on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Questions should be directed to EdisonCEMF@njeda.com, (866) 534-7789
For more information go to http://www.njeda.com/web/Aspx_pg/Templates/Npic_Text.aspx?Doc_Id=1085&menuid=1287&topid=718&levelid=6&midid=1175
The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
NYSERDA invites proposals for projects that develop, demonstrate or commercialize innovative ultraviolet light or electron beam technologies. The projects must provide energy benefits for an industrial process in New York’s manufacturing sector.
Proposals are due March 10.
Technical questions should be directed to one of the project managers at (518) 862-1090, Scott Larsen, ext. 3208, lsl@nyserda.org, Bill Reinhardt, ext. 3257, wwr@nyserda.org. Contractual questions should be directed to Nancy Marucci, ext. 3335, nsm@nyserda.org.
For more information go to http://www.nyserda.org/funding/1641pon.asp.
New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
NYSERDA seeks studies on energy efficiency, solar thermal, biomass, fuel cells, small wind, energy management personnel and vehicles. The studies can be later used to support applications for federal stimulus funds. Eligible participants include: municipal governments, public K-12 schools, public universities or colleges, hospitals, and not-for-profits.
Applications are due by March 15, 2010 on a first-come, first-serve basis, or until funds are fully committed.
Technical questions concerning this solicitation should be directed Ben Fox, (518) 862-1090, ext. 3444 or bf2@nyserda.org. Contractual questions should be directed to Venice Forbes, (518) 862-1090, ext.3507 or vwf@nyserda.org.
For more information go to http://www.nyserda.org/funding/1161pon.asp.
The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
NYSERDA seeks applications from software developers to provide building modeling software for use in NYSERDA's New York Home Performance with ENERGY STAR Program
Applications are due by June 30, 2011.
For RFQ questions contact Brian Atchinson, (518) 862-1090, ext.3382, or bta@nyserda.org; for contract questions, Venice Forbes, (518) 862-1090, ext. 3507, or vwf@nyserda.org.
For more information go to http://www.nyserda.org/funding/1303rfql.asp.
The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
NYSERDA is offering $10 million in grants to expand manufacturing of renewable, clean, and energy-efficient products in New York. The state agency will evaluate proposals on a first-come first-serve basis.
Proposals will be accepted through June 30, 2011 or until funds run out.
Send applications to Roseanne Viscusi, PON No. 1176, NYSERDA, 17 Columbia Circle, Albany, New York 12203-6399. Direct technical questions to Jennifer Harvey, 518-862-1090, ext. 3264, jlh@nyserda.org, or Joe Borowiec, 518- 862-1090 ext. 3381, jcb@nyserda.org; and contractual questions to Diane Vogel, 518-862-1090, ext. 3299, drv@nyserda.org.
For more information go to http://www.nyserda.org/funding/1176pon.asp.
Upcoming Events
The New Green Economy: January 20 - 22, Washington D.C.
http://ncseonline.org/conference/greeneconomy/
Go Green Expo: January 22 - 24, Los Angeles
http://www.gogreenexpo.com/events/index.php?evid=13
Airports Energy Efficiency Forum: February. (Date yet to be set) Seattle
http://events.aaae.org/sites/091103/index.cfm
Solutions for Success New York’s ENERGY STAR for Homes 2010 Conference: February 3 - 4, Saratoga Springs, NY.
Better Buildings by Design 2010: February 10 - 11, Burlington, VT.
http://www.efficiencyvermont.com/pages/Business/BuildingEfficiently/BetterBuildingByDesignConferen/
ACI New Jersey Home Performance Conference 2010: March 4 - 5, Atlantic City, NJ.
http://www.affordablecomfort.org/event/aci_new_jersey_home_performance_conference_2010
Job Listing
ACEEE: Technical Advocacy Coordinator at Appliance Standards Awareness Project
http://www.aceee.org/job/tech_coordinator.pdf
Email us at realenergywriters@comcast.net to list your EE job.
Recommended Reading
US Solar Spins 360
http://www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/news/article/2009/12/us-solar-spins-a-360
Where Are the Green Collar Jobs You Promised, Mr. President
Monitoring Geothermal Heat Pump Performance
http://www.onsetcomp.com/resources/white_papers
Full House at Solar Power International 2009
http://www.realwriters.net/rew/spi1.pdf.pdf
Lisa Cohn’s new Energy Blog
Read and comment on Lisa Cohn's new energy blog, Cohn's Corner, for SNL Energy:
http://www.snl.com/Interactivex/article.aspx?CdId=A-10438182-10810
Check out stories we are writing on twitter.com
Podcast Suggestions?
We are open to suggestions for our popular podcast, which attracts up to 180 new subscribers a day. We are now seeking interviews with efficiency experts who can walk us through hypothetical projects and discuss efficiency changes they would recommend to clients. Contact us at realenergywriter@comcast.net.
Editor: Reid Smith
---------------
December 10, 2009
Blog
Obama, poker and what 2010 holds for energy efficiency
By Elisa Wood
December 10, 2009
Jon Stewart said it best: Obama is a lousy poker payer. Lucky thing, too, for the energy efficiency industry as it heads into 2010.
Stewart’s December 8 “The Daily Show” aired a clip of Obama recently telling business leaders: “I don't want to tip our hand too much, but one of the things I would be surprised if we don't end up moving forward on is an aggressive agenda for energy efficiency and weatherization.”
Tip his hand? In fact, as Stewart pointed out, Obama has shown that hand broadly to the world for the last year. Starting with his January 2009 inaugural speech, Obama buoyed the clean energy industry by advancing renewable energy, a first for a US president in that forum. But that turned out to be just the start. In talk after talk this year, he pushed efficiency. If US voters didn’t know the term ‘weatherization’ before, they know it now. What could be better publicity for a product than having it endorsed by the leader of the free world?
To say 2009 was a banner year for the energy efficiency industry is an understatement. Under Obama’s watch, the federal government has channeled $20 billion in stimulus dollars to energy efficiency and now promises more from bailout funds returned by banks.
While the money – and Obama’s support – was the big story for 2009 and continues to be going into 2010, it is important to remember that electric energy is ultimately a local industry in the United States. What happens before state public utility commissions and regional regulatory bodies often has greatest influence.
To that end here a few local trends of 2009 that may grow in 2010.
*Efficiency as a first fuel. Environment Northeast has been successful in convincing several New England states to consider efficiency to be the first fuel in portfolio planning. That means when utilities plan resources, they must secure all cost effective energy efficiency before pursuing power plant development or power purchases. http://www.env-ne.org/
*Decoupling. Utilities have little incentive to encourage energy savings if they earn their profits from selling power. Decoupling changes utility accounting and cost recovery by delinking profits from sales. California and Massachusetts are examples of states with full decoupling and their utilities have among the most aggressive efficiency programs in the country. Several other states partially use the approach; others are considering adopting it.
*Energy efficiency portfolio standards. Similar to renewable portfolio standards, EEPS require that utilities, and in some cases competitive retail suppliers, achieve certain energy savings goals. Federal proposals are under consideration for a national EEPS. That may or may not happen. But 19 states now have the standards; look for more to pursue the approach.
What else does the EE industry have to look forward to in 2010? Please post what you see in your crystal ball.
Visit Elisa Wood at http://www.realenergywriters.com/ and pick up her free Energy Efficiency Markets podcast and newsletter.
To comment on the blog, go to
http://energyefficiencymarkets.wordpress.com/ or
http://energyefficiencymarkets.blogspot.com/
Podcast
Capturing carbon dioxide
and recycling it part 1
Lisa Cohn of EE Markets interviews Byron Elton, CEO of Carbon Sciences, about the company's work repurposing and recycling CO2 produced by coal plants and other industries. The more traditional method is to bury carbon dioxide underground, he explains.
To listen and subscribe to Energy Efficiency Markets Podcast, go to
http://www.realwriters.net/rew/rtlnkmr.htm
Coming Soon: Energy Efficiency Incentives for Businesses 2010
Volume 1: Eastern States
By Elisa Wood and Lisa Cohn
For information about pre-ordering the guide at reduced rates or advertising options, please e-mail us at realenergywriters@comcast.net
News
Job growth in California is going green
http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-green-jobs9-2009dec09,0,6283396.story
Exxon forecasts efficiency gains
http://greeninc.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/12/08/exxon-forecasts-efficiency-gains/
Water heater efficiency rules draw criticism
http://greeninc.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/12/04/water-heater-efficiency-rules-draw-criticism/
Bloomberg drops an effort to cut building energy use
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/12/05/science/earth/05bloomberg.html
LG sues DOE over
Energy Star treatment
http://www.environmentalleader.com/2009/12/07/lg-sues-doe-over-energy-star-treatment/
Senate panel to take up carbon capture, biofuels, research bills
Requests for Proposals
The Maryland Energy Administration
The MEA is now offering low-interest loans through the EmPOWER Commercial and Industrial Energy Efficiency Loan Fund. Maryland businesses can qualify for up to $500,000 for electric efficiency projects, and $750,000 for combined electric and gas/fuel oil efficiency projects with a minimum $35,000 for energy efficiency projects. Eligible types of energy efficiency projects may include building weatherization, lighting technology upgrades, HVAC replacements or upgrades, and commercial refrigeration equipment upgrades.
Awards will be made on a first-come, first-served basis within utility service territory funding pools through February 12.
Questions should be directed to Jesse Fulton, jfulton@energy.state.md.us, (410) 260-7184.
For more information go to
http://www.energy.maryland.gov/incentives/business/commercialIndustrialEnergyEfficiencyLoanFund.asp
U.S. Small Business Administration
The SBA is offering funds to its lead centers for programs that help small businesses develop and commercialize clean technology products, goods, services, and processes. The SBA expects to fund four projects $125,000 each.
Applications are due December 14.
Questions should be directed to the Small Business Administration, Office of Small
Business Development Centers, (202) 205-6766, osbdc@sba.gov .
http://www.sba.gov/aboutsba/sbaprograms/sbdc/funding/sbdc_funding_opps.html
The City of Campbell, California
The City of Campbell seeks proposals from qualified firms for an energy efficiency and solar energy feasibility study. The preliminary scope of work includes a review of existing city facilities, analysis of current and historical energy use data, and development of recommendations for energy efficiency investments, including consideration of possible installation of solar photovoltaic systems.
Proposals are due by December 17.
Questions should be directed to Brett Stollenwerk, facilities manager, (408) 866–2195, Bretts@cityofcampbell.com.
For more information go to
http://www.cityofcampbell.com/PublicWorks/RFP-RFQ/Solar%20Energy%20Feasibility%20Study.pdf
The New Jersey Economic Development Authority
Money is available for companies to site Class I renewable energy or energy efficiency product manufacturing facilities in New Jersey. New Jersey clean technology manufacturers can receive funding for project assessment and design, or project construction and operation.
Applications are now being accepted in an open, rolling process and will be reviewed on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Questions should be directed to EdisonCEMF@njeda.com, (866) 534-7789
For more information go to http://www.njeda.com/web/Aspx_pg/Templates/Npic_Text.aspx?Doc_Id=1085&menuid=1287&topid=718&levelid=6&midid=1175
Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics
The Orcelle Fund seeks new ideas for technology development. The fund is a grant-awarding body that will provide seed capital for high-risk alternative maritime energy sources and energy-efficient technology.
Proposals are due by December 15, 2009.
For more information go to http://www.2wglobal.com/www/environment/Orcellefund/index.jsp.
The Department of Energy
The DOE is offering state and local governments up to $454 million from the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant, offered through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The competitive solicitation makes available:
1. $390 million for Retrofit Ramp-Up, innovative programs that provide whole-neighborhood building energy retrofits.
2. $64 million from the General Innovation Fund to help expand local energy efficiency efforts and reduce energy use in the commercial, residential, transportation, manufacturing, or industrial sectors.
Applications are due December 14.
Questions should be directed through the FedConnect office at https://www.fedconnect.net/.
For more information go to http://www.eecbg.energy.gov/.
The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
NYSERDA invites proposals for projects that develop, demonstrate or commercialize innovative ultraviolet light or electron beam technologies. The projects must provide energy benefits for an industrial process in New York’s manufacturing sector.
Proposals are due March 10.
Technical questions should be directed to one of the project managers at (518) 862-1090, Scott Larsen, ext. 3208, lsl@nyserda.org, Bill Reinhardt, ext. 3257, wwr@nyserda.org. Contractual questions should be directed to Nancy Marucci, ext. 3335, nsm@nyserda.org.
For more information go to http://www.nyserda.org/funding/1641pon.asp.
The New York State Energy Research Authority
The ‘NY-BEST (New York Battery and Energy Storage Technology) Market-Driven Research Program’ is designed stimulate world-class, industry-relevant, research and development, and to support industrial activity in New York in the commercialization of advanced battery and energy storage technology. This program will provide funding for organizations to develop and commercialize battery and energy storage technologies and products. Eligible energy storage technologies include technologies that store electric energy directly, components of these technologies, and systems or products that incorporate these technologies.
Proposals are due December 17.
Technical questions should be directed to Richard Drake, (518) 862-1090, ext. 3258 rld@nyserda.org, or Jennifer Harvey, (518) 862-1090, ext. 3264 jlh@nyserda.org. Contractual questions should be directed to Nancy Marucci at (518) 862-1090, ext. 3335, nsm@nyserda.org.
For more information go to http://www.nyserda.org/funding/1704summary.pdf
New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
NYSERDA seeks studies on energy efficiency, solar thermal, biomass, fuel cells, small wind, energy management personnel and vehicles. The studies can be later used to support applications for federal stimulus funds. Eligible participants include: municipal governments, public K-12 schools, public universities or colleges, hospitals, and not-for-profits.
Applications are due by March 15, 2010 on a first-come, first-serve basis, or until funds are fully committed.
Technical questions concerning this solicitation should be directed Ben Fox, (518) 862-1090, ext. 3444 or bf2@nyserda.org. Contractual questions should be directed to Venice Forbes, (518) 862-1090, ext.3507 or vwf@nyserda.org.
For more information go to http://www.nyserda.org/funding/1161pon.asp.
The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
NYSERDA seeks applications from software developers to provide building modeling software for use in NYSERDA's New York Home Performance with ENERGY STAR Program
Applications are due by June 30, 2011.
For RFQ questions contact Brian Atchinson, (518) 862-1090, ext.3382, or bta@nyserda.org; for contract questions, Venice Forbes, (518) 862-1090, ext. 3507, or vwf@nyserda.org.
For more information go to http://www.nyserda.org/funding/1303rfql.asp.
The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
NYSERDA seeks applications from facilities interested in energy efficiency technical evaluations, peak-load reduction studies, energy procurement analysis, proposals that study the feasibility of implementing combined heat & power (CHP) and renewable generation, and Peak-Load Curtailment Plans. This solicitation is divided into three separate components: 1) Energy Efficiency Technical Assistance; 2) CHP and Renewable Generation Technical Assistance; and 3) Peak-Load Curtailment Plan Technical Assistance.
Applications accepted on a first-come first-serve basis through November 30.
CHP and renewable generation program questions should be directed to Mark Gundrum at 866-NYSERDA, ext. 325. All other program questions should be directed to Rachel Adams at 212-971-5342, ext. 3016. All contractual questions should be directed to Doreen Darling at 866-NYSERDA, ext. 3216.
For more information go to http://www.nyserda.org/Funding/1197pon.asp.
The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
NYSERDA is offering $10 million in grants to expand manufacturing of renewable, clean, and energy-efficient products in New York. The state agency will evaluate proposals on a first-come first-serve basis.
Proposals will be accepted through June 30, 2011 or until funds run out.
Send applications to Roseanne Viscusi, PON No. 1176, NYSERDA, 17 Columbia Circle, Albany, New York 12203-6399. Direct technical questions to Jennifer Harvey, 518-862-1090, ext. 3264, jlh@nyserda.org, or Joe Borowiec, 518- 862-1090 ext. 3381, jcb@nyserda.org; and contractual questions to Diane Vogel, 518-862-1090, ext. 3299, drv@nyserda.org.
For more information go to http://www.nyserda.org/funding/1176pon.asp.
Upcoming Events
The New Green Economy: January 20 - 22, Washington D.C.
http://ncseonline.org/conference/greeneconomy/
Go Green Expo: January 22 - 24, Los Angeles
http://www.gogreenexpo.com/events/index.php?evid=13
Airports Energy Efficiency Forum: February. (Date yet to be set) Seattle
http://events.aaae.org/sites/091103/index.cfm
Solutions for Success New York’s ENERGY STAR for Homes 2010 Conference: February 3 - 4, Saratoga Springs, NY.
Better Buildings by Design 2010: February 10 - 11, Burlington, VT.
http://www.efficiencyvermont.com/pages/Business/BuildingEfficiently/BetterBuildingByDesignConferen/
ACI New Jersey Home Performance Conference 2010: March 4 - 5, Atlantic City, NJ.
http://www.affordablecomfort.org/event/aci_new_jersey_home_performance_conference_2010
Job Listing
ACEEE: Technical Advocacy Coordinator at Appliance Standards Awareness Project
http://www.aceee.org/job/tech_coordinator.pdf
Email us at realenergywriters@comcast.net to list your EE job.
Recommended Reading
US Solar Spins 360
http://www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/news/article/2009/12/us-solar-spins-a-360
Where Are the Green Collar Jobs You Promised, Mr. President
Monitoring Geothermal Heat Pump Performance
http://www.onsetcomp.com/resources/white_papers
Full House at Solar Power International 2009
http://www.realwriters.net/rew/spi1.pdf.pdf
Lisa Cohn’s new Energy Blog
Read and comment on Lisa Cohn's new energy blog, Cohn's Corner, for SNL Energy:
http://www.snl.com/Interactivex/article.aspx?CdId=A-10438182-10810
Check out stories we are writing on twitter.com
Podcast Suggestions?
We are open to suggestions for our popular podcast, which attracts up to 180 new subscribers a day. We are now seeking interviews with efficiency experts who can walk us through hypothetical projects and discuss efficiency changes they would recommend to clients. Contact us at realenergywriter@comcast.net.
Editor: Reid Smith
---------------
December 3, 2009
Blog
How many negawatts do I need before I retire?
By Elisa Wood
December 3, 2009
A candy shop owner on Cape Cod offers a new approach to build a retirement portfolio: put solar panels on your roof.
“We looked at the stock market last year and it didn’t look too good so we decided to invest in electricity,” said Ray Hebert, owner of Stage Stop Candy in Dennisport, in an article on wickedlocal.com by Nicole Muller. http://www.wickedlocal.com/dennis/news/business/x1792920283/PHOTO-GALLERY-Solar-energy-to-power-chocolate-production-at-Dennisport-shop
Thanks to today’s generous state and federal subsidies, Hebert expects to recover costs in five years and then begin collecting a return on investment of 13.8%. “What investment can guarantee that?” he asks. “And since electricity costs are expected to climb, my profit will go up, up, up over time.” He plans to channel the savings into his retirement account.
I’m not a financial planner, so won’t pretend to know if Hebert’s numbers are correct. But his reasoning points out a new and growing way consumers and businesses have begun to think about electricity. Efficiency allows them to not only save money, but also to earn it.
In Hebert’s case, he is saving money by using a generation source that has no fuel costs – sunshine is free – and by taking advantage of Massachusetts net metering laws, which allow consumers to sell back to the local utility any excess power generated by their solar panels.
But there are other ways, as well, that consumers can earn a return on electricity savings. Neighboring Connecticut, for example, has become the king of monetizing energy savings through its innovative energy efficiency certificates. The certificates represent energy savings (negawatts) businesses achieve when they install efficient technologies. Each megawatt-hour of savings equates to one certificate. The businesses then sell the certificates to utilities or retail electricity suppliers who use them to prove to regulators that they’ve achieved state-mandated levels of energy savings.
So far, the Connecticut program is largely confined to businesses, although homeowners are eligible. Private companies have been trying to come up with ways the householder can easily participate, but are having trouble convincing state regulators that their programs can work. One company proposed a green stamps approach, where customers could buy lights, appliances and other efficiency equipment through certificate savings. (See the CPower case before the Connecticut Department of Public Utility Control: http://www.dpuc.state.ct.us/DOCKCURR.NSF/4ad307989ca5ed2a85257523004e0191/d122623c2e5eab5c8525767400500afc?OpenDocument&scrollTop=545)
Programs that monetize electricity savings are likely to grow as more utilities install smart meters in homes and businesses. Smart meters let consumers see when and how they use electricity, so that they can better control costs. Connecticut Light & Power found that consumers who participated in a smart meter pilot program liked using the devices, although those who did so for environmental reasons were more satisfied than those who participated to save money. This isn’t surprising since residential customers only saved $24.69 on average from June 1 to August 31, 2009. http://nuwnotes1.nu.com/apps/mediarelease/clp-pr.nsf/0/0E66EBF11810786085257673004EA13B?OpenDocument
Would the savings be more meaningful if packaged into an investment that increases the value of the money -- the Cape Cod candy shop owner’s approach? The possibilities are many: Pairing energy efficiency companies with financial firms to offer energy savings retirement accounts or college funds, or perhaps channeling the money into tax deductible donations. Whatever the case, translating kilowatt-hour savings into concrete financial products for consumers offers intriguing market possibilities for the electricity industry.
To comment on the blog, go to
http://energyefficiencymarkets.wordpress.com/ or
http://energyefficiencymarkets.blogspot.com/
Podcast
District cooling systems: Efficiency in numbers
Lisa Cohn of EE Markets interviews Leo O'Loughlin, the western region business director for Veolia Energy North America. He discusses how Veolia's district cooling system increases energy efficiency and reduces greenhouse gas emissions by serving many buildings with one plant.
To listen and subscribe to Energy Efficiency Markets Podcast, go to
http://www.realwriters.net/rew/rtlnkmr.htm
Coming Soon: Energy Efficiency Incentives for Businesses 2009
Volume 1: Eastern States
By Elisa Wood and Lisa Cohn
For information about pre-ordering the guide at reduced rates or advertising options, please e-mail us at realenergywriters@comcast.net
News
President Obama sets a target for cutting U.S. greenhouse gas emissions
http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/news/news_detail.cfm/news_id=15650
California approves new energy efficient TV regulations
http://www.energy.ca.gov/releases/2009_releases/2009-11-18_tv_regulations.html
US research project aims to improve home efficiency by half
http://www.energyefficiencynews.com/power-generation/i/2614/
Lockheed sees energy sales reaching $1 billion by 2012
http://uk.reuters.com/article/idUKN3046727220091130
Mac mini most efficient, MacBooks rank well in UK energy survey
http://mac.blorge.com/2009/11/28/mac-mini-most-efficient-macbooks-rank-well-in-uk-energy-ranking/
Obama Administration weighs incentives for home improvement
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB125967194482271175.html
Requests for Proposals
The Maryland Energy Administration
The MEA is now offering low-interest loans through the EmPOWER Commercial and Industrial Energy Efficiency Loan Fund. Maryland businesses can qualify for up to $500,000 for electric efficiency projects, and $750,000 for combined electric and gas/fuel oil efficiency projects with a minimum $35,000 for energy efficiency projects. Eligible types of energy efficiency projects may include building weatherization, lighting technology upgrades, HVAC replacements or upgrades, and commercial refrigeration equipment upgrades.
Awards will be made on a first-come, first-served basis within utility service territory funding pools through February 12.
Questions should be directed to Jesse Fulton, jfulton@energy.state.md.us, (410) 260-7184.
For more information go to
http://www.energy.maryland.gov/incentives/business/commercialIndustrialEnergyEfficiencyLoanFund.asp
U.S. Small Business Administration
The SBA is offering funds to its lead centers for programs that help small businesses develop and commercialize clean technology products, goods, services, and processes. The SBA expects to fund four projects $125,000 each.
Applications are due December 14.
Questions should be directed to the Small Business Administration, Office of Small
Business Development Centers, (202) 205-6766, osbdc@sba.gov .
http://www.sba.gov/aboutsba/sbaprograms/sbdc/funding/sbdc_funding_opps.html
The City of Campbell, California
The City of Campbell seeks proposals from qualified firms for an energy efficiency and solar energy feasibility study. The preliminary scope of work includes a review of existing city facilities, analysis of current and historical energy use data, and development of recommendations for energy efficiency investments, including consideration of possible installation of solar photovoltaic systems.
Proposals are due by December 17.
Questions should be directed to Brett Stollenwerk, facilities manager, (408) 866–2195, Bretts@cityofcampbell.com.
For more information go to
http://www.cityofcampbell.com/PublicWorks/RFP-RFQ/Solar%20Energy%20Feasibility%20Study.pdf
The New Jersey Economic Development Authority
Money is available for companies to site Class I renewable energy or energy efficiency product manufacturing facilities in New Jersey. New Jersey clean technology manufacturers can receive funding for project assessment and design, or project construction and operation.
Applications are now being accepted in an open, rolling process and will be reviewed on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Questions should be directed to EdisonCEMF@njeda.com, (866) 534-7789
For more information go to http://www.njeda.com/web/Aspx_pg/Templates/Npic_Text.aspx?Doc_Id=1085&menuid=1287&topid=718&levelid=6&midid=1175
Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics
The Orcelle Fund seeks new ideas for technology development. The fund is a grant-awarding body that will provide seed capital for high-risk alternative maritime energy sources and energy-efficient technology.
Proposals are due by December 15, 2009.
For more information go to http://www.2wglobal.com/www/environment/Orcellefund/index.jsp.
The Department of Energy
The DOE is offering state and local governments up to $454 million from the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant, offered through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The competitive solicitation makes available:
1. $390 million for Retrofit Ramp-Up, innovative programs that provide whole-neighborhood building energy retrofits.
2. $64 million from the General Innovation Fund to help expand local energy efficiency efforts and reduce energy use in the commercial, residential, transportation, manufacturing, or industrial sectors.
Applications are due December 14.
Questions should be directed through the FedConnect office at https://www.fedconnect.net/.
For more information go to http://www.eecbg.energy.gov/.
The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
NYSERDA invites proposals for projects that develop, demonstrate or commercialize innovative ultraviolet light or electron beam technologies. The projects must provide energy benefits for an industrial process in New York’s manufacturing sector.
Proposals are due March 10.
Technical questions should be directed to one of the project managers at (518) 862-1090, Scott Larsen, ext. 3208, lsl@nyserda.org, Bill Reinhardt, ext. 3257, wwr@nyserda.org. Contractual questions should be directed to Nancy Marucci, ext. 3335, nsm@nyserda.org.
For more information go to http://www.nyserda.org/funding/1641pon.asp.
The New York State Energy Research Authority
The ‘NY-BEST (New York Battery and Energy Storage Technology) Market-Driven Research Program’ is designed stimulate world-class, industry-relevant, research and development, and to support industrial activity in New York in the commercialization of advanced battery and energy storage technology. This program will provide funding for organizations to develop and commercialize battery and energy storage technologies and products. Eligible energy storage technologies include technologies that store electric energy directly, components of these technologies, and systems or products that incorporate these technologies.
Proposals are due December 17.
Technical questions should be directed to Richard Drake, (518) 862-1090, ext. 3258 rld@nyserda.org, or Jennifer Harvey, (518) 862-1090, ext. 3264 jlh@nyserda.org. Contractual questions should be directed to Nancy Marucci at (518) 862-1090, ext. 3335, nsm@nyserda.org.
For more information go to http://www.nyserda.org/funding/1704summary.pdf
New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
NYSERDA seeks studies on energy efficiency, solar thermal, biomass, fuel cells, small wind, energy management personnel and vehicles. The studies can be later used to support applications for federal stimulus funds. Eligible participants include: municipal governments, public K-12 schools, public universities or colleges, hospitals, and not-for-profits.
Applications are due by March 15, 2010 on a first-come, first-serve basis, or until funds are fully committed.
Technical questions concerning this solicitation should be directed Ben Fox, (518) 862-1090, ext. 3444 or bf2@nyserda.org. Contractual questions should be directed to Venice Forbes, (518) 862-1090, ext.3507 or vwf@nyserda.org.
For more information go to http://www.nyserda.org/funding/1161pon.asp.
The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
NYSERDA seeks applications from software developers to provide building modeling software for use in NYSERDA's New York Home Performance with ENERGY STAR Program
Applications are due by June 30, 2011.
For RFQ questions contact Brian Atchinson, (518) 862-1090, ext.3382, or bta@nyserda.org; for contract questions, Venice Forbes, (518) 862-1090, ext. 3507, or vwf@nyserda.org.
For more information go to http://www.nyserda.org/funding/1303rfql.asp.
The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
NYSERDA seeks applications from facilities interested in energy efficiency technical evaluations, peak-load reduction studies, energy procurement analysis, proposals that study the feasibility of implementing combined heat & power (CHP) and renewable generation, and Peak-Load Curtailment Plans. This solicitation is divided into three separate components: 1) Energy Efficiency Technical Assistance; 2) CHP and Renewable Generation Technical Assistance; and 3) Peak-Load Curtailment Plan Technical Assistance.
Applications accepted on a first-come first-serve basis through November 30.
CHP and renewable generation program questions should be directed to Mark Gundrum at 866-NYSERDA, ext. 325. All other program questions should be directed to Rachel Adams at 212-971-5342, ext. 3016. All contractual questions should be directed to Doreen Darling at 866-NYSERDA, ext. 3216.
For more information go to http://www.nyserda.org/Funding/1197pon.asp.
The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
NYSERDA is offering $10 million in grants to expand manufacturing of renewable, clean, and energy-efficient products in New York. The state agency will evaluate proposals on a first-come first-serve basis.
Proposals will be accepted through June 30, 2011 or until funds run out.
Send applications to Roseanne Viscusi, PON No. 1176, NYSERDA, 17 Columbia Circle, Albany, New York 12203-6399. Direct technical questions to Jennifer Harvey, 518-862-1090, ext. 3264, jlh@nyserda.org, or Joe Borowiec, 518- 862-1090 ext. 3381, jcb@nyserda.org; and contractual questions to Diane Vogel, 518-862-1090, ext. 3299, drv@nyserda.org.
For more information go to http://www.nyserda.org/funding/1176pon.asp.
Upcoming Events
Balance of Systems & Balance of Plants Conference & Expo: December 3 - 4, San Diego
http://www.newsolartoday.com/bosbop/index.shtml
EcoBuild America: December 7 - 10, Washington D.C.
2009 Energy Star Summit: December 9, Denver
http://summit.smartenergyliving.org/
The New Green Economy: January 20 - 22, Washington D.C.
http://ncseonline.org/conference/greeneconomy/
Go Green Expo: January 22 - 24, Los Angeles
http://www.gogreenexpo.com/events/index.php?evid=13
Airports Energy Efficiency Forum: February. (Date yet to be set) Seattle
http://events.aaae.org/sites/091103/index.cfm
Solutions for Success New York’s ENERGY STAR for Homes 2010 Conference: February 3 - 4, Saratoga Springs, NY.
Better Buildings by Design 2010: February 10 - 11, Burlington, VT.
http://www.efficiencyvermont.com/pages/Business/BuildingEfficiently/BetterBuildingByDesignConferen/
ACI New Jersey Home Performance Conference 2010: March 4 - 5, Atlantic City, NJ.
http://www.affordablecomfort.org/event/aci_new_jersey_home_performance_conference_2010
Job Listing
ACEEE: Technical Advocacy Coordinator at Appliance Standards Awareness Project
http://www.aceee.org/job/tech_coordinator.pdf
Email us at realenergywriters@comcast.net to list your EE job.
Recommended Reading
Where are the green collar jobs you promised, Mr. President
Monitoring Geothermal Heat Pump Performance
http://www.onsetcomp.com/resources/white_papers
Full House at Solar Power International 2009
http://www.realwriters.net/rew/spi1.pdf.pdf
Lisa Cohn’s new Energy Blog
Read and comment on Lisa Cohn's new energy blog, Cohn's Corner, for SNL Energy:
http://www.snl.com/Interactivex/article.aspx?CdId=A-10346839-12843
Check out stories we are writing on twitter.com
Podcast Suggestions?
We are open to suggestions for our popular podcast, which attracts up to 180 new subscribers a day. We are now seeking interviews with efficiency experts who can walk us through hypothetical projects and discuss efficiency changes they would recommend to clients. Contact us at realenergywriter@comcast.net.
Editor: Reid Smith