October, 2008
October 30, 2008
Blog
Electricity use falls because of efficiency
By Elisa Wood
October 30, 2008
Electricity sales can gauge the national economic health. An ailing economy uses less electricity because is produces fewer goods and services. Sometimes, however, electricity sales fall for a good reason – efficiency.
Such is the case in the United States, according to a recent statistics released by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC). The organization annually assesses how well the grid is likely to perform over the next several years.
The 300-page report has a lot to say, but this headline jumped out at us: Demand Response Projected to Offset Nearly 80% of U.S. Peak Demand Growth in 2016; Significant Growth in Energy Efficiency Projected.
NERC forecasts that North America will offset 34,000 MW through demand response – a kind of efficiency program where customers are paid to reduce energy use when the grid is under strain. In addition, conventional energy efficiency programs are expected to cut electricity use by 11,000 MW. As a result, total electric demand will drop 3.3%, NERC said.
Demand response will become “a critical resource” to help us keep the lights on over the next ten years, according to the report. Our economy is becoming increasingly electrified, but we are unwilling to build more energy infrastructure. “Many coal plants have been deferred or cancelled, nuclear plants are becoming more and more expensive, and transmission lines increasingly difficult to site,” NERC said. Demand response will help bridge the gap between our electricity needs and our power resources.
To read and comment on the entire blog, go to
http://energyefficiencymarkets.wordpress.com/ or
http://energyefficiencymarkets.blogspot.com/
Podcast
The new CHP tax credit - and why it's important
Energy Efficiency Markets interviews Neal Elliott, Ph.D., associate director for research for the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE) about the new tax credit for Combined Heat and Power (CHP) Systems. He tells just how important CHP is, given that 20% of our power could come from it.
To listen and subscribe to Energy Efficiency Markets Podcast, go to
http://www.realwriters.net/rew/rtlnkmr.htm
News
Report: Efficiency is still a sound investment
http://greeninc.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/10/28/report-efficiency-is-a-still-a-sound-investment/
Greenhouse gas reductions recommendations adopted in California
http://docs.cpuc.ca.gov/PUBLISHED/NEWS_RELEASE/92385.htm
Michigan residents win long-fought energy savings battle: New, modern residential building code now in effect
AG battling Duke Energy plan for efficiency, calls it unlawful
http://charlotte.bizjournals.com/charlotte/stories/2008/10/20/story8.html?b=1224475200^1718106
Record incentives make it easier for businesses to "go green"
http://www.prweb.com/releases/2008/10/prweb1513584.htm
White house honors federal agency teams for saving energy and reducing energy costs
http://www.energy.gov/news/6693.htm
Requests for Proposals
The California Energy Commission
The CEC, as pare of the PIER program seeks interested applicants for a funding opportunity for the adoption advanced mobile combustion engine technologies for distributed energy resources and combined heat and power applications. The objective is to facilitate widespread use of non-renewable distributed generation and improve California's air quality by developing reliable, cost effective, emission-reduction technologies for reciprocating engines, small turbines and microturbines, fuel cells, and hybrid fuel cell-microturbine technologies.
There will be a pre-proposal workshop on November 4. Deadline is January 8, 2009.
For more information go to http://www.energy.ca.gov/contracts/pier.html#EPAG.
Maine Public Utilities Commission
Maine's PUC intends to issue an RFP in November or December 2008 for consultants to conduct a state energy efficiency potential study, review goals, objectives and strategies for conservation programs, and to consider revisions to the Efficiency Maine program plan.
Interested applicants should submit written comments to the commission's administrative director by December 1 at:
242 State Street
Augusta, Maine 04333-0018
For more information go to www.maine.gov/mpuc. See Online Documents & Services, Virtual Case File, Docket No. 2008-402.
The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
NYSERDA seeks proposals to develop innovative products and systems for residential, commercial, and institutional buildings in New York state that improve the safety, energy, and environmental performance of buildings.
Proposals are due by December 8 and should be submitted to:
Roseanne Viscusi, PON 1266
NYS Energy Research and Development Authority
17 Columbia Circle
Albany, NY 12203-6399
Technical questions concerning this solicitation should be directed to Robert Carver at (518) 862-1090, ext. 3242 or rmc@nyserda.org. Contractual questions should be directed to Nancy Marucci at (518) 862-1090, ext. 3335 or nsm@nyserda.org.
For more information go to http://www.nyserda.org/Funding/1266pon.asp
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection seeks a contractor to set up and operate the "Garden State Climate Fund,” a state greenhouse gas (GHG) voluntary offset program. The winner will establish ways to assess GHG offset projects and verify third parties, oversee voluntary offset projects, and create a business and marketing plan for promoting offset programs.
Proposals are due by November 25.
Questions and bids should be sent to Sarah Barrett at Sarah.Barrett@dep.state.nj.us.
For more information go to http://www.state.nj.us/globalwarming/pdf/GSCFRFP916.pdf.
Wisconsin Focus on Energy
Focus on Energy’s Environmental and Economic Research and Development Program (EERD) seeks to fund projects that research the impact of electricity generation and natural gas use on the environment and economy of Wisconsin. Studies should focus on environmental and economic impacts of renewable energy and energy efficiency initiatives, biomass energy production and use, and impacts of climate change that may be attributed to electric or natural gas use.
Proposals are due by November 13.
Questions should be directed to Ingrid Kelley at ikelley@ecw.org or (608) 238-8276 ext. 136.
For more information go to http://www.focusonenergy.com/Enviro-Econ-Research/Environmental_Research_Program.aspx
US Department of Energy
The US DOE has opened the second round of solicitations for the Loan Guarantee program, which offers up to $30.5 billion in federal loan guarantees for projects that employ advanced energy technologies and that avoid, reduce or sequester anthropogenic emissions of air pollutants or greenhouse gases. The three solicitations are for (1) energy efficiency, renewable energy and advanced transmission and distribution technologies; (2) advanced nuclear power facilities; and (3) advanced nuclear facilities for the 'front-end' of the nuclear fuel cycle.
Applications are due Dec. 11.
For application material and information go to http://www.lgprogram.energy.gov/keydocs.html.
Questions should be directed to the Loan Guarantee Program Office at lgprogram@hq.doe.gov or 202-586-8336. For additional contact information go to http://www.lgprogram.energy.gov/contact.html.
For information go to http://www.lgprogram.energy.gov/index.html.
Upcoming Events
The Future of Demand Response and Energy Efficiency for North America: November 5 – 6, Boston, Mass.
https://www.euci.com/conferences/1108-dr-boston/register.php
Energy Efficiency & Sustainability Symposium, 2008: November 5 – 8, Atlanta, Ga.
http://www.greentechnewsmag.com/energy08_program.php
Commercializing the Smart Grid: Technologies & Applications: November 5 – 7, Washington, DC.
http://www.infocastinc.com/index.php/conference/smartgrid
ArchLED ’08 LED Lighting for the Built Environment: November 12 – 14, Chicago Ill.
www.mwalliance.org/LEDworkshop
Transmission and Distribution Summit 2008: November 16 - 18, Colorado Springs, Colo.
Understanding the Economics of Energy Efficiency and Demand Response Programs: A Guide for Utilities, Commissions and Energy Service Professionals: November 17, New York, NY.
http://www.pgsenergy.com/S101.html
Green Build International Conference and Expo: November 19 – 21, Boston, Mass.
http://www.greenbuildexpo.org/
Energy Efficiency Finance and Investment Forum: December 1 – 2, London, UK.
http://www.euromoneyenergy.com/pdfs/ECK216.pdf?LS=EMS202431
Energy Leaders Roundtable: Securing America's Energy Future: December 2, Houston, Tex.
http://guest.cvent.com/EVENTS/Info/Summary.aspx?e=087b2333-fc01-4b85-9c73-bd8f57538274
Demand Response: Enabling Energy Efficiency & Conservation: December 8 – 9, Toronto, Ont.
http://www.dr-expo.com/2008/toronto/#home
Energy Efficiency Summit East 2008: December 8 – 10, Washington, DC.
http://guest.cvent.com/EVENTS/Info/Summary.aspx?i=9e57ef57-81bf-470f-9b17-48b2d8060f0d
EcoBuild: December 8 – 11, Washington, DC.
http://www.ecobuildamerica.com/fallhome.html
MEEA's annual Midwest Energy Solutions Conference: January 7 – 9, Chicago Ill.
Influencing Customer Behavior Toward Energy Efficiency: January 27 – 28, San Diego, Calif.
https://www.euci.com/conferences/0109-customer-behavior/
Editor: Reid Smith
-------
October 23, 2008
Blog
Toasting Pop-Tarts cheap: How electricity may solve our energy woes
By Elisa Wood
October 23, 2008
We tend to talk about electricity in terms of its problems -- it degrades the environment, costs too much and messes up scenic views. But the Manhattan Institute’s Peter Huber takes a different stand in his new report “The Million-Volt Answer to Oil.”
Huber says electric power may be the cheap, efficient resource we seek to give America energy independence. He divides energy into two camps: electric power and transportation fuel. Our energy woes stem from our dependence on oil for transportation. To get over $4 per gallon gas, he says, we need to connect our transportation fleet and home heating systems to cheap 4 cents/kWh electricity.
“We spend roughly half as much on electricity—about $350 billion a year—as we’re currently spending on $100-a-barrel oil, and electrically powered systems do more, faster and better, than oil-fired alternatives,” he says in the report.
Huber’s theory opens the door wide for use of plug-in hybrid cars and electric heat pumps. “If we could deliver electricity straight to electric motors connected to our wheels, it would deliver miles at a price that most current car engines could match only on gasoline priced under a dollar a gallon. Delivered to our homes at off-peak prices, electrical heat would cost homeowners a lot less than $4-a-gallon heating oil,” he says.
Of course, electricity doesn’t cost 4/kWh cents everywhere. Some places it is 19 cents/kWh. And no matter where you live, the price goes up and down dramatically all day, depending on how many customers use power at any given time. When the East Coast is winding down its work day and its electricity prices fall, the West Coast is still going full tilt and its electricity prices rise. The trick is to transmit the cheap power quickly from place to place, and keep it rolling over four time zones by building a new and sophisticated high-voltage transmission backbone that can handle such movement.
To read and comment on the entire blog, go to
http://energyefficiencymarkets.wordpress.com/ or
http://energyefficiencymarkets.blogspot.com/
Podcast
100 mile per gallon light trucks
Energy Efficiency Markets Podcast interviews Jennifer Zerwer, spokesperson for Pacific Gas and Electric Company, about its use of Raser Technologies’ hybrid-electric trucks that get 100 miles per gallon. She also talks about the challenges of integrating hybrid vehicles into the grid.
To listen and subscribe to Energy Efficiency Markets Podcast, go to
http://www.realwriters.net/rew/rtlnkmr.htm
News
Operation change out: Initial results save nearly $11 million in energy costs at 84 US military bases
http://www.energy.gov/news/6657.htm
Car shoppers can save money and time with 2009 fuel economy guide
Reliant Energy recognized as tops in Texas for national energy efficiency program
Report: California energy efficiency policies equals major job growth
http://washingtonindependent.com/13764/report-california-energy-efficiency-policies-major-job-growth
Wal-Mart suppliers face energy efficiency, other mandates
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB122463357082356711.html?mod=googlenews_wsj
New York school district signs with Atlantic Energy Solutions for energy savings
Requests for Proposals
Maine Public Utilities Commission
Maine's PUC intends to issue an RFP in November or December 2008 for consultants to conduct a state energy efficiency potential study, review goals, objectives and strategies for conservation programs, and to consider revisions to the Efficiency Maine program plan.
Interested applicants should submit written comments to the commission's administrative director by December 1 at:
242 State Street
Augusta, Maine 04333-0018
For more information go to www.maine.gov/mpuc. See Online Documents & Services, Virtual Case File, Docket No. 2008-402.
The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
NYSERDA seeks proposals to develop innovative products and systems for residential, commercial, and institutional buildings in New York state that improve the safety, energy, and environmental performance of buildings.
Proposals are due by December 8 and should be submitted to:
Roseanne Viscusi, PON 1266
NYS Energy Research and Development Authority
17 Columbia Circle
Albany, NY 12203-6399
Technical questions concerning this solicitation should be directed to Robert Carver at (518) 862-1090, ext. 3242 or rmc@nyserda.org. Contractual questions should be directed to Nancy Marucci at (518) 862-1090, ext. 3335 or nsm@nyserda.org.
For more information go to http://www.nyserda.org/Funding/1266pon.asp
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection seeks a contractor to set up and operate the "Garden State Climate Fund,” a state greenhouse gas (GHG) voluntary offset program. The winner will establish ways to assess GHG offset projects and verify third parties, oversee voluntary offset projects, and create a business and marketing plan for promoting offset programs.
Submit intentions to bid by October 7 and applications by November 25.
Questions and bids should be sent to Sarah Barrett at Sarah.Barrett@dep.state.nj.us.
For more information go to http://www.state.nj.us/globalwarming/pdf/GSCFRFP916.pdf.
California Energy Commission
The California Energy Commission seeks contractors to conduct and direct integrated research under the PIER Buildings program. This RFP is the first of a possible series of annual technology innovation solicitations for energy efficiency research on buildings. The contractor should bring together a team with administrative, research and market expertise.
Proposals are due by October 24.
Direct questions to the commission’s contract office at rgrant@energy.state.ca.us.
For more information go to http://www.energy.ca.gov/contracts/pier.html.
Wisconsin Focus on Energy
Focus on Energy’s Environmental and Economic Research and Development Program (EERD) seeks to fund projects that research the impact of electricity generation and natural gas use on the environment and economy of Wisconsin. Studies should focus on environmental and economic impacts of renewable energy and energy efficiency initiatives, biomass energy production and use, and impacts of climate change that may be attributed to electric or natural gas use.
Proposals are due by November 13. Prospective applicants must e-mail intent of purpose form to Ingrid Kelley at ikelley@ecw.org by October 23.
Questions should be directed to Ingrid Kelley at ikelley@ecw.org or (608) 238-8276 ext. 136.
For more information go to http://www.focusonenergy.com/Enviro-Econ-Research/Environmental_Research_Program.aspx
US Department of Energy
The US DOE has opened the second round of solicitations for the Loan Guarantee program, which offers up to $30.5 billion in federal loan guarantees for projects that employ advanced energy technologies and that avoid, reduce or sequester anthropogenic emissions of air pollutants or greenhouse gases. The three solicitations are for (1) energy efficiency, renewable energy and advanced transmission and distribution technologies; (2) advanced nuclear power facilities; and (3) advanced nuclear facilities for the 'front-end' of the nuclear fuel cycle.
Applications are due Dec. 11.
For application material and information go to http://www.lgprogram.energy.gov/keydocs.html.
Questions should be directed to the Loan Guarantee Program Office at lgprogram@hq.doe.gov or 202-586-8336. For additional contact information go to http://www.lgprogram.energy.gov/contact.html.
For information go to http://www.lgprogram.energy.gov/index.html.
Upcoming Events
2008 National Renewable Energy Marketing Conference: October 26 - 29, Denver,
Colo.
http://renewableenergymarketing.net/
Smart Metering East Coast: October 27 – 28, Raleigh, N.C.
http://www.spintelligent-events.com/smec2008/en/
The National Association of Energy Service Companies (NAESCO) 25th Annual Conference: October 28 - 29, Santa Monica, Calif.
The Future of Demand Response and Energy Efficiency for North America: November 5 – 6, Boston, Mass.
https://www.euci.com/conferences/1108-dr-boston/register.php
Energy Efficiency & Sustainability Symposium, 2008: November 5 – 8, Atlanta, Ga.
http://www.greentechnewsmag.com/energy08_program.php
Commercializing the Smart Grid: Technologies & Applications: November 5 – 7, Washington, DC.
http://www.infocastinc.com/index.php/conference/smartgrid
ArchLED ’08 LED Lighting for the Built Environment: November 12 – 14, Chicago Ill.
www.mwalliance.org/LEDworkshop
Transmission and Distribution Summit 2008: November 16 - 18, Colorado Springs, Colo.
Green Build International Conference and Expo: November 19 – 21, Boston, Mass.
http://www.greenbuildexpo.org/
Energy Efficiency Finance and Investment Forum: December 1 – 2, London, UK.
http://www.euromoneyenergy.com/pdfs/ECK216.pdf?LS=EMS202431
Energy Leaders Roundtable: Securing America's Energy Future: December 2, Houston, Tex.
http://guest.cvent.com/EVENTS/Info/Summary.aspx?e=087b2333-fc01-4b85-9c73-bd8f57538274
Demand Response: Enabling Energy Efficiency & Conservation: December 8 – 9, Toronto, Ont.
http://www.dr-expo.com/2008/toronto/#home
Energy Efficiency Summit East 2008: December 8 – 10, Washington, DC.
http://guest.cvent.com/EVENTS/Info/Summary.aspx?i=9e57ef57-81bf-470f-9b17-48b2d8060f0d
EcoBuild: December 8 – 11, Washington, DC.
http://www.ecobuildamerica.com/fallhome.html
MEEA's annual Midwest Energy Solutions Conference: January 7 – 9, Chicago Ill.
Editor: Reid Smith
---------
October 17, 2008
Blog
Clean Energy Prospers: Toto, We’re Not on Wall Street Anymore
By Elisa Wood
October 17, 2008
Wall Street is in the middle of an earthquake. Main Street is shaking from the tremors. Easy Street has been wiped off the map. Is there a safe haven from this economic meltdown? Green Street looks pretty appealing.
Green Street is a term used increasingly to describe businesses that offer energy efficiency, solar, wind and other forms of clean power. While the global economy braces for cost cuts and job loss, Green Street is forecasting profit and massive job creation.
Green Street has been prosperous for while, but its fortunes rose considerably October 3 when President Bush signed into law the $700 billion financial rescue bill.
By way of a series of odd events, the recovery bill included tax credits for clean energy. The credits have nothing to do with the financial rescue, but were attached to the bill at the last minute. Clean energy advocates had been trying to convince Congress to pass the tax incentives for 18 months. Some of the credits had expired; others were about to end; and still others were new to the bill. Before the credits were attached to the recovery bill, clean energy lobbyists in Washington had all but given up on any chance of their passage this year.
What does the bill offer the efficiency industry? Homeowners once again receive tax credits for making a range of efficiency upgrades to their houses. The new law also gives a boost to green commercial buildings, efficient appliances, smart grid technologies and plug-in hybrids. Equally important, it recognizes the efficiency of combined heat and power by offering a new 10% tax credit for small projects. For specifics about the credits see http://www.ase.org/content/article/detail/2654.
To read and comment on the entire blog, go to
http://energyefficiencymarkets.wordpress.com/ or
http://energyefficiencymarkets.blogspot.com/
Podcast
Presidential Candidates' Energy Policies, Part 2
In part 2 of this interview, Energy Efficiency Markets Podcast interviews Ray Wuslich, partner with the law firm Winston & Strawn, Washington D.C., about the presidential candidates' energy policies. He discusses the surprising similarities between the two candidates’ positions on many of the main issues, highlights the candidates' differences and offers commentary on the issues.
To listen and subscribe to Energy Efficiency Markets Podcast, go to
http://www.realwriters.net/rew/rtlnkmr.htm
News
Governor Rendell Announces Small Businesses Grants to Improve Energy Efficiency in Pennsylvania
Missouri Launches Energy Efficiency Campaign
http://www.bizjournals.com/stlouis/stories/2008/10/13/daily47.html
Minnesota Chamber Announces Launch of Energy Smart Program
Two Million Energy-Saving Light Bulbs Sold in First Year of Dominion Virginia Power Program
5 Eco-Cars Faster than the Porsche 911
http://www.treehugger.com/files/2008/10/5-eco-cars-faster-porsche-911-acceleration-0-to-60-mph.php
Providence Housing Begins $12.1 Million Energy Efficiency Program
http://www.projo.com/business/content/BZ_ENERGYSAVINGS_10-15-08_J8BU7PS_v12.32fe3f8.html
Requests for Proposals
The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
NYSERDA seeks proposals to develop innovative products and systems for residential, commercial, and institutional buildings in New York state that improve the safety, energy, and environmental performance of buildings.
Proposals are due by December 8 and should be submitted to:
Roseanne Viscusi, PON 1266
NYS Energy Research and Development Authority
17 Columbia Circle
Albany, NY 12203-6399
Technical questions concerning this solicitation should be directed to Robert Carver at (518) 862-1090, ext. 3242 or rmc@nyserda.org. Contractual questions should be directed to Nancy Marucci at (518) 862-1090, ext. 3335 or nsm@nyserda.org.
For more information go to http://www.nyserda.org/Funding/1266pon.asp
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection seeks a contractor to set up and operate the "Garden State Climate Fund,” a state greenhouse gas (GHG) voluntary offset program. The winner will establish ways to assess GHG offset projects and verify third parties, oversee voluntary offset projects, and create a business and marketing plan for promoting offset programs.
Submit intentions to bid by October 7 and applications by November 25.
Questions and bids should be sent to Sarah Barrett at Sarah.Barrett@dep.state.nj.us.
For more information go to http://www.state.nj.us/globalwarming/pdf/GSCFRFP916.pdf.
California Energy Commission
The California Energy Commission seeks contractors to conduct and direct integrated research under the PIER Buildings program. This RFP is the first of a possible series of annual technology innovation solicitations for energy efficiency research on buildings. The contractor should bring together a team with administrative, research and market expertise.
Proposals are due by October 24.
Direct questions to the commission’s contract office at rgrant@energy.state.ca.us.
For more information go to http://www.energy.ca.gov/contracts/pier.html.
Wisconsin Focus on Energy
Focus on Energy’s Environmental and Economic Research and Development Program (EERD) seeks to fund projects that research the impact of electricity generation and natural gas use on the environment and economy of Wisconsin. Studies should focus on environmental and economic impacts of renewable energy and energy efficiency initiatives, biomass energy production and use, and impacts of climate change that may be attributed to electric or natural gas use.
Proposals are due by November 13. Prospective applicants must e-mail intent of purpose form to Ingrid Kelley at ikelley@ecw.org by October 23.
Questions should be directed to Ingrid Kelley at ikelley@ecw.org or (608) 238-8276 ext. 136.
For more information go to http://www.focusonenergy.com/Enviro-Econ-Research/Environmental_Research_Program.aspx
US Department of Energy
The US DOE has opened the second round of solicitations for the Loan Guarantee program, which offers up to $30.5 billion in federal loan guarantees for projects that employ advanced energy technologies and that avoid, reduce or sequester anthropogenic emissions of air pollutants or greenhouse gases. The three solicitations are for (1) energy efficiency, renewable energy and advanced transmission and distribution technologies; (2) advanced nuclear power facilities; and (3) advanced nuclear facilities for the 'front-end' of the nuclear fuel cycle.
Applications are due Dec. 11.
For application material and information go to http://www.lgprogram.energy.gov/keydocs.html.
Questions should be directed to the Loan Guarantee Program Office at lgprogram@hq.doe.gov or 202-586-8336. For additional contact information go to http://www.lgprogram.energy.gov/contact.html.
For information go to http://www.lgprogram.energy.gov/index.html.
Upcoming Events
FERC Compliance Summit: October 20 - 22, Washington DC.
http://www.infocastinc.com/index.php/conference/ferc08
Essentials of Energy Risk Management & Option Applications in Energy: October 21 - 24, Houston, Tex.
http://www.paradigmtraining.com/
Smart Metering East Coast: October 27 – 28, Raleigh, N.C.
http://www.spintelligent-events.com/smec2008/en/
The National Association of Energy Service Companies (NAESCO) 25th Annual Conference: October 28 - 29, Santa Monica, Calif.
The Future of Demand Response and Energy Efficiency for North America: November 5 – 6, Boston, Mass.
https://www.euci.com/conferences/1108-dr-boston/register.php
Energy Efficiency & Sustainability Symposium, 2008: November 5 – 8, Atlanta, Ga.
http://www.greentechnewsmag.com/energy08_program.php
Commercializing the Smart Grid: Technologies & Applications: November 5 – 7, Washington, DC.
http://www.infocastinc.com/index.php/conference/smartgrid
ArchLED ’08 LED Lighting for the Built Environment: November 12 – 14, Chicago Ill.
www.mwalliance.org/LEDworkshop
Transmission and Distribution Summit 2008: November 16 - 18, Colorado Springs, Colo.
Green Build International Conference and Expo: November 19 – 21, Boston, Mass.
http://www.greenbuildexpo.org/
Energy Efficiency Finance and Investment Forum: December 1 – 2, London, UK.
http://www.euromoneyenergy.com/pdfs/ECK216.pdf?LS=EMS202431
Energy Leaders Roundtable: Securing America's Energy Future: December 2, Houston, Tex.
http://guest.cvent.com/EVENTS/Info/Summary.aspx?e=087b2333-fc01-4b85-9c73-bd8f57538274
Demand Response: Enabling Energy Efficiency & Conservation: December 8 – 9, Toronto, Ont.
http://www.dr-expo.com/2008/toronto/#home
Energy Efficiency Summit East 2008: December 8 – 10, Washington, DC.
http://guest.cvent.com/EVENTS/Info/Summary.aspx?i=9e57ef57-81bf-470f-9b17-48b2d8060f0d
EcoBuild: December 8 – 11, Washington, DC.
http://www.ecobuildamerica.com/fallhome.html
MEEA's annual Midwest Energy Solutions Conference: January 7 – 9, Chicago Ill.
Editor: Reid Smith
------
October 9, 2008
Blog
The Ghost of High Energy Prices Past
By Elisa Wood
Oct. 9, 2008
Halloween is still a few weeks away, but a ghost is already making an appearance, this one floating over the presidential campaigns. His name is Conservation.
I first heard the specter of sacrifice evoked by Sen. Barack Obama in the Oct. 7 debate. The next day Gov. Sarah Palin repeated the term several times in a television interview. Conservation, she said, is part of Senator John McCain’s “all-of-the-above” energy policy.
Wait a minute. Isn’t this the Jimmy Carter approach – the turn-down-the thermostat and put on the sweater – that proved fruitless?
I’m not saying conservation is a bad idea; I am saying it is ineffective over the long term. Americans will conserve only as long as money is tight. Once energy prices drop or personal income rises, the house heats up again.
For that reason, today’s energy efficiency movement has distanced itself from the idea of self sacrifice. Instead, advocates define energy efficiency as doing more with less, not doing less. While conservation is a 1970s notion, efficiency is a child of the Internet age, a series of advanced technologies that allow our factories, data centers, homes and appliances to function better while using less energy (with some good old-fashioned insulation thrown in.)
I can only guess that the candidates are using the term “conservation” freely again because polls indicate the American consumer is ready for a period of self-sacrifice – not surprising given all of the bad economic news that seems to stem from a certain amount of financial hubris. But what the polls giveth the polls taketh away. Energy policy based on conservation offers us a fleeting green alternative.
To read and comment on the entire blog, go to
http://energyefficiencymarkets.wordpress.com/ or
http://energyefficiencymarkets.blogspot.com/
Podcast
Energy Policies of Obama and McCain, Part 1
Energy Efficiency Markets Podcast interviews Ray Wuslich, partner with the law firm Winston & Strawn, Washington D.C., about the presidential candidates' energy policies. He discusses the surprising similarities between the two candidates’ positions on many of the main issues, highlights their differences and offers commentary on the issues.
To listen and subscribe to Energy Efficiency Markets Podcast, go to
http://www.realwriters.net/rew/rtlnkmr.htm
News
ACEEE “Rates the States” in the New Energy Efficiency Scorecard
http://aceee.org/press/e075pr.htm
Michigan Commits to an Energy Efficient Electric Future
http://www.aceee.org/press/0810michigan.htm
New Ships Can Take Thousands of Trucks off US Highways and Drastically Reduce Carbon Emissions
http://www.greenships.org/greenships-media.html
Congress Extends Energy Efficiency Tax Incentives
http://www.aceee.org/press/0810legislation.htm
The Rahus Institute releases the "Customer's Guide to Solar Power Purchase Agreements"
http://www.californiasolarcenter.org/sppa.html
Clean Energy 2030: Google's Proposal for Reducing US Dependence on Fossil Fuels
http://googleblog.blogspot.com/2008/10/clean-energy-2030.html
PSE&G President Urges New Jersey Legislators to Support Renewable and Energy Efficiency Investments to Weather Economic Storm
Electric Device Promises Better Gas Efficiency
http://www.cleantech.com/news/3573/electric-device-promises-better-gas-efficiency
Requests for Proposals
The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
NYSERDA seeks proposals to develop innovative products and systems for residential, commercial, and institutional buildings in New York state that improve the safety, energy, and environmental performance of buildings.
Proposals are due by December 8 and should be submitted to:
Roseanne Viscusi, PON 1266
NYS Energy Research and Development Authority
17 Columbia Circle
Albany, NY 12203-6399
Technical questions concerning this solicitation should be directed to Robert Carver at (518) 862-1090, ext. 3242 or rmc@nyserda.org. Contractual questions should be directed to Nancy Marucci at (518) 862-1090, ext. 3335 or nsm@nyserda.org.
For more information go to http://www.nyserda.org/Funding/1266pon.asp
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection seeks a contractor to set up and operate the "Garden State Climate Fund,” a state greenhouse gas (GHG) voluntary offset program. The winner will establish ways to assess GHG offset projects and verify third parties, oversee voluntary offset projects, and create a business and marketing plan for promoting offset programs.
Submit intentions to bid by October 7 and applications by November 25.
Questions and bids should be sent to Sarah Barrett at Sarah.Barrett@dep.state.nj.us.
For more information go to http://www.state.nj.us/globalwarming/pdf/GSCFRFP916.pdf.
California Energy Commission
The California Energy Commission seeks contractors to conduct and direct integrated research under the PIER Buildings program. This RFP is the first of a possible series of annual technology innovation solicitations for energy efficiency research on buildings. The contractor should bring together a team with administrative, research and market expertise.
Proposals are due by October 24.
Direct questions to the commission’s contract office at rgrant@energy.state.ca.us.
For more information go to http://www.energy.ca.gov/contracts/pier.html.
Wisconsin Focus on Energy
Focus on Energy’s Environmental and Economic Research and Development Program (EERD)
seeks to fund projects that research the impact of electricity generation and
natural gas use on the environment and economy of Wisconsin. Studies should
focus on environmental and economic impacts of renewable energy and energy
efficiency initiatives, biomass energy production and use, and impacts of
climate change that may be attributed to electric or natural gas use.
Proposals are due by November 13. Prospective applicants must e-mail intent of
purpose form to Ingrid Kelley at ikelley@ecw.org by October 23.
Questions should be directed to Ingrid Kelley at
ikelley@ecw.org or (608) 238-8276
ext. 136.
For more information go to
http://www.focusonenergy.com/Enviro-Econ-Research/Environmental_Research_Program.aspx
US Department of Energy
The US DOE has opened the second round of solicitations for the Loan Guarantee program, which offers up to $30.5 billion in federal loan guarantees for projects that employ advanced energy technologies and that avoid, reduce or sequester anthropogenic emissions of air pollutants or greenhouse gases. The three solicitations are for (1) energy efficiency, renewable energy and advanced transmission and distribution technologies; (2) advanced nuclear power facilities; and (3) advanced nuclear facilities for the 'front-end' of the nuclear fuel cycle.
Applications are due Dec. 11.
For application material and information go to http://www.lgprogram.energy.gov/keydocs.html.
Questions should be directed to the Loan Guarantee Program Office at lgprogram@hq.doe.gov or 202-586-8336. For additional contact information go to http://www.lgprogram.energy.gov/contact.html.
For information go to http://www.lgprogram.energy.gov/index.html.
Ontario Power Authority
The Ontario Power Authority (OPA) was directed by the Minister of Energy to procure up to 1,000 MW of high efficiency combined heat and power projects across Ontario. CHP configurations may be natural gas-fired industrial cogeneration, by-product fuel-fired industrial cogeneration, district energy cogeneration, or renewable fuel-fired industrial cogeneration.
Proposal submission deadline is Oct. 16.
Questions should be directed to Dan Slavei at Dan.Slavei@powerauthority.on.ca.
For a full description of the RFP go to http://www.powerauthority.on.ca/GP/Page.asp?PageID=1224&SiteNodeID=174
Upcoming Events
Demand Response and Energy Efficiency Canada: October 9 – 10, Toronto, Ontario.
https://www.euci.com/conferences/1008-dree-ca/
Transmission Renaissance 2008 - Building the Grid for Renewables, Reliability & Markets: October 15 – 17, Washington, DC.
http://www.infocastinc.com/index.php/conference/111
FERC Compliance Summit: October 20 - 22, Washington DC.
http://www.infocastinc.com/index.php/conference/ferc08
Essentials of Energy Risk Management & Option Applications in Energy: October 21 - 24, Houston, Tex.
http://www.paradigmtraining.com/
Smart Metering East Coast: October 27 – 28, Raleigh, N.C.
http://www.spintelligent-events.com/smec2008/en/
The National Association of Energy Service Companies (NAESCO) 25th Annual Conference: October 28 - 29, Santa Monica, Calif.
The Future of Demand Response and Energy Efficiency for North America: November 5 – 6, Boston, Mass.
https://www.euci.com/conferences/1108-dr-boston/register.php
Energy Efficiency & Sustainability Symposium, 2008: November 5 – 8, Atlanta, Ga.
http://www.greentechnewsmag.com/energy08_program.php
Commercializing the Smart Grid: Technologies & Applications: November 5 – 7, Washington, DC.
http://www.infocastinc.com/index.php/conference/smartgrid
ArchLED ’08 LED Lighting for the Built Environment: November 12 – 14, Chicago Ill.
www.mwalliance.org/LEDworkshop
Transmission and Distribution Summit 2008: November 16 - 18, Colorado Springs, Colo.
Green Build International Conference and Expo: November 19 – 21, Boston, Mass.
http://www.greenbuildexpo.org/
Energy Efficiency Finance and Investment Forum: December 1 – 2, London, UK.
http://www.euromoneyenergy.com/pdfs/ECK216.pdf?LS=EMS202431
Energy Leaders Roundtable: Securing America's Energy Future: December 2, Houston, Tex.
http://guest.cvent.com/EVENTS/Info/Summary.aspx?e=087b2333-fc01-4b85-9c73-bd8f57538274
Energy Efficiency Summit East 2008: December 8 – 10, Washington, DC.
http://guest.cvent.com/EVENTS/Info/Summary.aspx?i=9e57ef57-81bf-470f-9b17-48b2d8060f0d
EcoBuild: December 8 – 11, Washington, DC.
http://www.ecobuildamerica.com/fallhome.html
MEEA's annual Midwest Energy Solutions Conference: January 7 – 9, Chicago Ill.
Editor: Reid Smith
---------
October 2, 2008
Blog
Energy Tax Credits and the Devil in Congress
By Elisa Wood
October 2, 2008
It is difficult to get beyond the hyperbole of the election season to uncover a candidate’s true position. The non-partisan Pew Center on Global Climate Change performed a service with a recently released just-the-facts guide on the energy platforms of the presidential contenders http://www.pewclimate.org/voter-guide.
What is remarkable about this year’s election, Pew says, is that “both major party candidates for the presidency are deeply concerned about global climate change and publicly support a mandatory, economy-wide cap-and-trade system for reducing the U.S. greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.”
What does this mean in a practical sense for energy efficiency markets? “Both candidates recognize that improving energy efficiency across the economy can be a powerful tool for reducing GHG emissions,” Pew says.
Sen. John McCain says he would create higher efficiency standards for new or retrofitted buildings leased or purchased by the federal government, the largest energy consumer in the world. McCain also promotes investments to upgrade and smarten the national electricity grid.
Sen. Barrack Obama would set national standards to reduce demand by 15%; make new buildings carbon-neutral or zero-emission by 2030; improve new building efficiency by 50% and existing building efficiency by 25%; improve efficiency in all new federal buildings by 40%; and make federal buildings zero-emitting by 2025.
The policies of both candidates sound positive. Of course, the devil is always in the details.
To read and comment on the entire blog, go to
http://energyefficiencymarkets.wordpress.com/ or
http://energyefficiencymarkets.blogspot.com/
Podcast
Stabilizing the Grid with Energy Storage
Energy Efficiency Markets Podcast interviews Susan Meredith, author of Beyond Light Bulbs: Lighting the Way for Smarter Energy Management, about how energy storage plays an integral role in transmission. She discusses how energy demand doesn’t always match supply, especially with the introduction of intermittent forms of energy, such as wind and solar. Energy can be stored in batteries, hydrogen fuel cells, ultra-capacitors, pumped hydro power, geothermal, or compressed air. Combining these different energy storage techniques with renewable energy is critical for developing a comprehensive and stable energy grid, she says.
To listen and subscribe to Energy Efficiency Markets Podcast, go to
http://www.realwriters.net/rew/rtlnkmr.htm
News
RGGI States' First CO2 Auction Off to a Strong Start
http://www.rggi.org/docs/rggi_press_9_29_2008.pdf
U.S. States, Canadian Provinces Announce Regional Cap-and-Trade Program to Reduce Greenhouse Gases
http://westernclimateinitiative.org/ewebeditpro/items/O104F19871.PDF
Toyota Named to Department of Energy Program to Speed Adoption of Energy-Efficient Building Technologies
Environmental Advocates Respond to Proposed PUCO Rules
http://www.nawindpower.com/naw/e107_plugins/content/content.php?content.2887
Chevron: Green is Good for Oil Business
http://www.bizjournals.com/losangeles/stories/2008/09/29/daily22.html
Magnetic Air Car Could Be Ready by 2010
http://cleantechnica.com/2008/09/29/magnetic-air-car-could-be-ready-by-2010/
Requests for Proposals
Brattleboro Thermal Utility
BTU seeks a feasibility study for a biomass-fueled combined heat and power district energy system serving Brattleboro, Vermont. The study would examine the technical, economic, and environmental feasibility of creating such a system.
Proposals are due by October 6.
Questions should be directed to info@brattleborothermalutility.com.
For more information go to http://www.brattleborothermalutility.com/BTU_CHPRFQ_Notice_Sept52008.pdf
The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
NYSERDA seeks proposals to develop innovative products and systems for residential, commercial, and institutional buildings in New York state that improve the safety, energy, and environmental performance of buildings.
Proposals are due by December 8 and should be submitted to:
Roseanne Viscusi, PON 1266
NYS Energy Research and Development Authority
17 Columbia Circle
Albany, NY 12203-6399
Technical questions concerning this solicitation should be directed to Robert Carver at (518) 862-1090, ext. 3242 or rmc@nyserda.org. Contractual questions should be directed to Nancy Marucci at (518) 862-1090, ext. 3335 or nsm@nyserda.org.
For ore information go to http://www.nyserda.org/Funding/1266pon.asp
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection seeks a contractor to set up and operate the "Garden State Climate Fund,” a state greenhouse gas (GHG) voluntary offset program. The winner will establish ways to assess GHG offset projects and verify third parties, oversee voluntary offset projects, and create a business and marketing plan for promoting offset programs.
Submit intentions to bid by October 7 and applications by November 25.
Questions and bids should be sent to Sarah Barrett at Sarah.Barrett@dep.state.nj.us.
For more information go to http://www.state.nj.us/globalwarming/pdf/GSCFRFP916.pdf.
California Energy Commission
The California Energy Commission seeks contractors to conduct and direct integrated research under the PIER Buildings program. This RFP is the first of a possible series of annual technology innovation solicitations for energy efficiency research on buildings. The contractor should bring together a team with administrative, research and market expertise.
Proposals are due by October 24.
Direct questions to the commission’s contract office at rgrant@energy.state.ca.us.
For more information go to http://www.energy.ca.gov/contracts/pier.html.
Wisconsin Focus on Energy
Focus on Energy’s Environmental and Economic Research and Development Program
(EERD) seeks to fund projects that research the impact of electricity generation
and natural gas use on the environment and economy of Wisconsin. Studies should
focus on environmental and economic impacts of renewable energy and energy
efficiency initiatives, biomass energy production and use, and impacts of
climate change that may be attributed to electric or natural gas use.
Proposals are due by November 13. Prospective applicants must e-mail an Intent
to Propose form to Ingrid Kelley at ikelley@ecw.org by October 23.
Questions should be directed to Ingrid Kelley at
ikelley@ecw.org or (608) 238-8276
ext. 136.
For more information go to
http://www.focusonenergy.com/Enviro-Econ-Research/Environmental_Research_Program.aspx
US Department of Energy
The US DOE has opened the second round of solicitations for the Loan Guarantee program, which offers up to $30.5 billion in federal loan guarantees for projects that employ advanced energy technologies and that avoid, reduce or sequester anthropogenic emissions of air pollutants or greenhouse gases. The three solicitations are for (1) energy efficiency, renewable energy and advanced transmission and distribution technologies; (2) advanced nuclear power facilities; and (3) advanced nuclear facilities for the 'front-end' of the nuclear fuel cycle.
Applications are due Dec. 11.
For application material and information go to http://www.lgprogram.energy.gov/keydocs.html.
Questions should be directed to the Loan Guarantee Program Office at lgprogram@hq.doe.gov or 202-586-8336. For additional contact information go to http://www.lgprogram.energy.gov/contact.html.
For information go to http://www.lgprogram.energy.gov/index.html.
Ontario Power Authority
The Ontario Power Authority (OPA) was directed by the Minister of Energy to procure up to 1,000 MW of high efficiency combined heat and power projects across Ontario. CHP configurations may be natural gas-fired industrial cogeneration, by-product fuel-fired industrial cogeneration, district energy cogeneration, or renewable fuel-fired industrial cogeneration.
Proposal submission deadline is Oct. 16.
Questions should be directed to Dan Slavei at Dan.Slavei@powerauthority.on.ca.
For a full description of the RFP go to http://www.powerauthority.on.ca/GP/Page.asp?PageID=1224&SiteNodeID=174
Upcoming Events
Demand Response-Expo: October 6 - 7, Toronto, Ontario.
http://www.dr-expo.com/2008/toronto/
Demand Response and Energy Efficiency Canada: October 9 – 10, Toronto, Ontario.
https://www.euci.com/conferences/1008-dree-ca/
Transmission Renaissance 2008 - Building the Grid for Renewables, Reliability & Markets: October 15 – 17, Washington, DC.
http://www.infocastinc.com/index.php/conference/111
FERC Compliance Summit: October 20 - 22, Washington DC.
http://www.infocastinc.com/index.php/conference/ferc08
Essentials of Energy Risk Management & Option Applications in Energy: October 21 - 24, Houston, Tex.
http://www.paradigmtraining.com/
The National Association of Energy Service Companies (NAESCO) 25th Annual Conference: October 28 - 29, Santa Monica, Calif.
The Future of Demand Response and Energy Efficiency for North America: November 5 – 6, Boston, Mass.
https://www.euci.com/conferences/1108-dr-boston/register.php
Energy Efficiency & Sustainability Symposium, 2008: November 5 – 8, Atlanta, Ga.
http://www.greentechnewsmag.com/energy08_program.php
ArchLED ’08 LED Lighting for the Built Environment: November 12 – 14, Chicago Ill.
www.mwalliance.org/LEDworkshop
Transmission and Distribution Summit 2008: November 16 - 18, Colorado Springs, Colo.
Green Build International Conference and Expo: November 19 – 21, Boston, Mass.
http://www.greenbuildexpo.org/
Energy Efficiency Summit East 2008: December 8 – 10, Washington, DC.
http://guest.cvent.com/EVENTS/Info/Summary.aspx?i=9e57ef57-81bf-470f-9b17-48b2d8060f0d
EcoBuild: December 8 – 11, Washington, DC.
http://www.ecobuildamerica.com/fallhome.html
MEEA's annual Midwest Energy Solutions Conference: January 7 – 9, Chicago Ill.
Editor: Reid Smith