October, 2009
October 29, 2009
Blog
What's geothermal again?
October 29, 2009
By Elisa Wood
Some green energy sources seem to have charisma; others struggle for public attention with little success.
Solar energy is an “it” technology, as evidenced once again by the tremendous participation in the annual Solar Power International conference in Anaheim, California this week (Oct. 27-29). Twice as many companies (945) are displaying their wares in the Expo Hall this year, despite the still lagging economy. And overall attendance is expected to break last year’s record, itself a record breaker.
Even on Main Street, ask pretty much anyone and they know solar, probably like it, and see it as an economy builder.
Ask the same people about geothermal heat pumps and there is a good chance they won’t know what you’re talking about. Or they may give an answer that confuses the appliances with geothermal geyser power plants. For whatever reason, the concept of extracting heat from the ground has yet to capture the public or political imagination as much as extracting it from the sun.
Yet, geothermal heat pumps could have a significant impact on our energy supply. They can be installed pretty much anywhere there is a building. And if we used them to maximum potential in the United States, we could avoid building 91-105 gigawatts of generation, nearly half of the new power we will need in 2030, according to the US Department of Energy.
Homeowners who consider then discard the idea often cite the high upfront installation costs. Yet the same argument could easily be made about solar photovoltaic panels. So why is geothermal an also ran technology?
One problem, according to the DOE, is that the heat pump industry needs to collect and disseminate more solid data on heat pumps. Work underway by the Chewonki Foundation, an educational institute in Maine, moves in this direction. With a grant from the Maine Public Utilities Commission, Chewonki is monitoring and measuring the performance of a newly installed heat pump system at its 11,000 square-foot meeting hall. The state is looking for an alternative to heating buildings with oil, a relatively common fuel in Maine. Geothermal heat pumps may prove to be that alternative. http://www.onsetcomp.com/resources/white_papers
This is not to imply that the geothermal heat pump industry is not growing. To the contrary, US shipments of geothermal heat pumps grew 40 percent last year, according to a report released this month by the Energy Information Administration. http://www.eia.doe.gov/cneaf/solar.renewables/page/ghpsurvey/geothermalrpt.pdf. The industry is very much a domestic jobs builder. Most of the systems shipped in the US last year where manufactured here -- 416,019 tons – with the remaining 86 tons from China. Sixteen percent of US product was exported.
Still, the geothermal heat pump industry is a small one, representing $319 million last year. Compare this to a domestic solar PV cell and module market of $1.72 billion in 2007 (2008 figures are not yet available from EIA).
Of course, it was just a few years ago that solar conferences were drawing hundreds, not tens of thousands of people, as Solar Power International does now. So who knows? Perhaps it’s not far-fetched to imagine the term” geothermal” rolling off the tongue of the average consumer, as easily as “solar” does today.
To read and comment on the rest of the blog, go to
http://energyefficiencymarkets.wordpress.com/ or
http://energyefficiencymarkets.blogspot.com/
Podcast
How servers waste energy part 1
Lisa Cohn of Energy Efficiency Markets interviews Sumir Karayi, CEO of 1E, a power management software developer, about a recent study of server efficiency that found there’s much room for improvement.
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
Department of Energy and National Labs release new data on commercial building energy goals
http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/news/progress_alerts.cfm/pa_id=257
President Obama announces $3.4 billion investment to spur transition to smart energy grid
http://www.energy.gov/news2009/8216.htm
The smart grid opportunity
http://www.fastcompany.com/article/smart-grid-opportunity
States invest more in energy efficiency
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB125616727379000149.html
As green as you care to be
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/25/realestate/25post.html
Energy efficiency groups agree to equipment standards
Requests for Proposals
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.
Ontario Power Authority
The OPA seeks proposals for the Community Energy Partnership Program (CEPP). The CEPP offers community groups financial grants of up to $200,000 per project for soft costs.
Proposals are due by October 30.
Questions should be directed to OPA Procurement Services, opa.procurement@powerauthority.on.ca
For more information go to http://www.powerauthority.on.ca/Page.asp?PageID=122&ContentID=7060&SiteNodeID=135&AA_SiteLanguageID=1
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
Efficiency Maine and Carbon Savings Trust
Efficiency Maine and the Energy and Carbon Savings Trust announce a $9 million energy efficiency and conservation competitive grant program to save energy and jobs by investing in large scale energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. Efficiency Maine is funding this program through American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds and the Energy and Carbon Savings Trust is funding this program through the revenues received from Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative auctions.
Questions should be directed to Evelyn DeFrees 207-287-6141, evelyn.defrees@maine.gov
For more information go to http://www.maine.gov/tools/whatsnew/index.php?topic=puc-pressreleases&id=80020&v=article08
The Ontario Power Authority
The OPA seeks proposals for consulting services from parties interested in preparing a research report on district energy with or without distributed generation. This research report should be non-biased and evidence based with no preconception about the conclusions. The purpose of this research report is to update the OPA’s information and data on district energy.
Proposals are due October 29.
Questions should be directed to OPA Procurement Services, opa.procurement@powerauthority.on.ca
For more information go to http://www.powerauthority.on.ca/Page.asp?PageID=122&ContentID=7003&SiteNodeID=135&BL_ExpandID
The Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources
DOER invites proposals for $15 million in ARRA funding for projects that dramatically increase energy efficiency in buildings. The stimulus funding is available to both public and private entities, including businesses, hospitals, universities, municipalities, community organizations, and others.
Proposals are due October 30.
Questions should be directed to Alissa Whiteman at Alissa.Whiteman@state.ma.us, (617) 626-7384
For more information go to
The Department of Energy
The DOE seeks to develop a well-trained, highly skilled electric power workforce to build a national clean-energy smart grid. This FOA supports the development and deployment of Training Program(s), as well as the actual training of personnel.
Proposals are due November 23.
Questions should be directed to Linda Jarnagin, linda_k_jarnagin@rl.gov.
For more information go to
https://www.fedconnect.net/FedConnect/?doc=DE-FOA-0000152&agency=DOE
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
Behavior, Energy & Climate Change Conference: November 15 - 18, Washington D.C.
http://aceee.org/conf/09becc/09beccindex.htm
The National Association of Energy Service Companies Annual Conference: November 17 - 18, Los Angeles
http://www.naesco.org/events/conference/annual/default.htm
Balance of Systems & Balance of Plants Conference & Expo: December 3 - 4, San Diego
http://www.newsolartoday.com/bosbop/index.shtml
Airports Energy Efficiency Forum: February, Seattle
http://events.aaae.org/sites/091103/index.cfm
ZiptoGreen Energy Efficiency Blog
Please see our regular column on energy efficiency at ziptogreen.com, a new interactive website to help consumers reduce energy use.
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-10217776-11826
Check out stories we are writing on twitter.com
Podcast Suggestions?
We are open to suggestions for our popular podcast, which attracts up to 160 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
----------
October 22, 2009
Blog
It’s the environment, stupid
October 22,
2009
If Harry Truman
were running for president today, he’d probably ‘Give ‘em Green,’ rather than
‘Give ‘em Hell.’ Bill Clinton’s campaign slogan would be, ‘It’s the environment,
stupid.’ And Herbert Hoover might be promising a solar panel on every roof,
rather than a chicken in every pot – and the pot would sit on a
smart-metered stove, powered by a plug-in hybrid, eligible for renewable energy
certificates.
Today, green credentials
count. Hardly a day goes by without a mayor, governor or legislator claiming
some sort of first, best or highest green energy goal.
That’s why the
state energy efficiency scorecard, released this week by the American Council
for an Energy Efficient Economy, is significant. It carries political
currency.
Bragging rights
go to California, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Oregon and New York,* the top
five states (in that order) doing good by energy efficiency. Some red
faces, however, might be found in Nebraska, Alabama, Mississippi, North Dakota,
and Wyoming, the group that ACEEE says “most needs to improve.”
States are
expected to continue their pursuit of energy efficiency into the next decade.
The ACEEE reports that utility ratepayer-funds for efficiency will likely grow
from $3.1 billion in 2008 to $5.4-$12 billion in 2020.
What’s most
interesting is that so much money and effort is being put into energy
efficiency now – during the Great Recession – when states face
deficits. This defies conventional behavior: Historically, Americans worry
about the environment only when the economy is sound. It appears that
green energy advocates have successfully imprinted in the American psyche a
link between renewable energy and efficiency and economic prosperity.
“This
growing and deepening commitment to energy efficiency is so strong that the
current recession has not put a dent in the vast majority of state programs,”
says Steven Nadel, ACEEE executive director. “And that is for good reason:
Energy efficiency is the only resource that can actually reduce energy
consumption while growing the economy -- making efficiency the 'first fuel'
states can use to balance their energy portfolios.”
So we find
ourselves in a kinder, greener nation, one with no electric meter left behind,
where we walk softly and carry a big wind tower…
*At about the
same time the ACEEE released the report, New York announced plans to shift
Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative money, slated for clean energy programs,
toward reducing its deficit. This may have reduced New York’s ranking in the
eyes of the environmental community.
To read and
comment on the rest of the blog, go to
http://energyefficiencymarkets.wordpress.com/ or
http://energyefficiencymarkets.blogspot.com/
Podcast
California's demand-response program
part 2
In Part 2 of
this interview, Lisa Cohn of Energy Efficiency Markets continues her interview
with Josh Schellenberg, senior analyst at Freeman, Sullivan & Co. about California's
statewide base interruptible program, one of the largest DR programs in the
country, with nearly 1,000 MW of load reduction capacity. Josh has a blog at www.energydsm.com.
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
Recession not dimming states’ growing focus on energy efficiency as
“first fuel,” with Ca, Ma, and Ct rated best on implementing energy efficiency.
http://www.aceee.org/press/e097pr.htm
Administration’s ‘Home Energy Retrofit’ initiative will deliver new jobs,
energy and money savings for consumers
http://ase.org/content/news/detail/6202
Vice President Biden unveils report focused on expanding green jobs and
energy savings for middle class families
http://www.energy.gov/news2009/8148.htm
Alliance to Save Energy applauds congress for robust funding for energy efficiency
http://ase.org/content/news/detail/6193
Finding broad support for energy efficiency as a solution for climate change
http://www.reuters.com/article/mnCarbonEmissions/idUS294234761920091016
Energy Star appliances may not all be efficient, audit finds
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/19/business/energy-environment/19star.html?_r=1
Requests for
Proposals
The New York State Energy
Research and Development Authority
NYSERDA invites
proposals for projects that develop, demonstrate or commercialize
innovative ultraviolet light and/or electron beam technologies that
provide an energy benefit to an industrial process in New York State in the
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.
Ontario Power Authority
The OPA seeks
prospective proponents to submit proposals to deliver the Community Energy
Partnership Program (CEPP). The CEPP will provide financial grants to community
groups of up to $200,000 per project for some of the soft costs associated
with project development.
Proposals are
due by October 30.
Questions should
be directed to OPA Procurement Services, opa.procurement@powerauthority.on.ca
For more
information go to http://www.powerauthority.on.ca/Page.asp?PageID=122&ContentID=7060&SiteNodeID=135&AA_SiteLanguageID=1
California
Energy Commission
The Energy Innovations Small Grant Program
provides up to $95,000 for hardware projects and $50,000 for modeling projects
to small businesses, non-profits, individuals and academic institutions to
conduct research that establishes the feasibility of new, innovative energy
concepts. Research projects must target one of the PIER R&D areas, address
a California energy problem and provide a potential benefit to California
electric and natural gas ratepayers.
Proposals are due by October 27.
Questions should be directed to the EISG
Program Administrator (619) 594-1049, eisgp@energy.state.ca.us.
For more information go to http://www.energy.ca.gov/research/innovations/
North
Carolina State Energy Office
The State Energy
Office seeks proposals for energy efficiency services and measures at private
non-profit organizations in North Carolina. The objective is to ensure that a
large number of nonprofit organizations adopt energy efficiency measures that
will reduce their energy expenses, allowing more of their budget to be spent on
program services. A secondary objective is to train volunteers, drawn from
their membership, board of directors and staff of the agency, to install some
of the simple energy efficiency measures on the non-profit organization’s
buildings, thereby further leveraging program dollars and training more
citizens in energy efficiency techniques and materials.
Proposals are
due October 23.
Questions should
be directed to Mildred Christmas, mildred.christmas@doa.nc.gov
For more
information go to https://www.ips.state.nc.us/IPS/AGENCY/PDF/06987500.pdf
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
Efficiency
Maine and Carbon Savings Trust
Efficiency Maine
and the Energy and Carbon Savings Trust announce a $9 million energy efficiency
and conservation competitive grant program to save energy and jobs by investing
in large scale energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. Efficiency
Maine is funding this program through American Recovery and Reinvestment Act
funds and the Energy and Carbon Savings Trust is funding this program through
the revenues received from Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative auctions.
Questions should
be directed to Evelyn DeFrees 207-287-6141, evelyn.defrees@maine.gov
For more
information go to http://www.maine.gov/tools/whatsnew/index.php?topic=puc-pressreleases&id=80020&v=article08
The
Ontario Power Authority
The OPA seeks
proposals for consulting services from parties interested in preparing a
research report on district energy with or without distributed generation. This
research report should be non-biased and evidence based with no preconception
about the conclusions. The purpose of this research report is to update the
OPA’s information and data on district energy.
Proposals are
due October 29.
Questions should
be directed to OPA Procurement Services, opa.procurement@powerauthority.on.ca
For more
information go to http://www.powerauthority.on.ca/Page.asp?PageID=122&ContentID=7003&SiteNodeID=135&BL_ExpandID
The
Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources
DOER invites
proposals for $15 million in ARRA funding for projects that dramatically
increase energy efficiency in buildings. The stimulus funding is available to
both public and private entities, including businesses, hospitals,
universities, municipalities, community organizations, and others.
Proposals are
due October 30.
Questions should
be directed to Alissa Whiteman at Alissa.Whiteman@state.ma.us,
(617) 626-7384
For more
information go to
The
Department of Energy
The DOE seeks to
develop a well-trained, highly skilled electric power workforce to build a
national clean-energy smart grid. This FOA supports the development and
deployment of Training Program(s), as well as the actual training of personnel.
Proposals are
due November 23.
Questions should
be directed to Linda Jarnagin, linda_k_jarnagin@rl.gov.
For more
information go to
https://www.fedconnect.net/FedConnect/?doc=DE-FOA-0000152&agency=DOE
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
Corporate
Climate Regulation: October 27 - 28, Chicago
http://www.asaseries.com/v8-12/Prospectus/Index.php?sEventCode=AS0909CHICAGO
Behavior, Energy
& Climate Change Conference: November 15 - 18, Washington D.C.
http://aceee.org/conf/09becc/09beccindex.htm
The National
Association of Energy Service Companies Annual Conference: November 17 - 18,
Los Angeles
http://www.naesco.org/events/conference/annual/default.htm
Balance of
Systems & Balance of Plants Conference & Expo: December 3 - 4, San
Diego
http://www.newsolartoday.com/bosbop/index.shtml
Airports Energy
Efficiency Forum: February, Seattle
http://events.aaae.org/sites/091103/index.cfm
ZiptoGreen Energy Efficiency Blog
Please see our regular column on energy efficiency at ziptogreen.com, a new interactive website to help consumers reduce energy use.
Lisa Cohn’s new Energy Blog
Read and comment on Lisa Cohn's new energy blog, Cohn's Corner, for SNL Energy:
http://www2.snl.com/Interactivex/article.aspx?CdId=A-10174424-14129
Check out stories we are writing on twitter.com
Podcast Suggestions?
We are open to suggestions for our popular podcast, which attracts up to 160 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
----------
October 15, 2009
Blog
Efficiency left out of cap and trade
By Elisa Wood
October 15, 2009
Waxman/Markey’s climate change bill is about 1,400 pages. Its length and complexity, alone, provides fuel for its opponents. Would it stand a better chance of enactment if it encompassed less?
For example, would it have been wiser if Congress pursued cap and trade one year and a renewable energy standard another? I’ve asked this question a lot during interviews the past few weeks, and received a range of responses. But what I found most enlightening, at least from an energy efficiency perspective, was a webinar offered by Bill Prindle, vice president at ICF International. http://www.icfi.com/markets/energy/webinar/webinar-archive.asp.
Here’s what I took away: Energy efficiency helps the carbon reduction cause. But the carbon reduction cause doesn’t do much for efficiency.
Most versions of cap and trade programs now on the table do not recognize the value of demand-side resources in reducing emissions. Credit goes to emissions reductions at the power plant level, not at the retail customer level. So while my new, efficient heat pump will cut my energy use and therefore carbon emissions, this action is not acknowledged anywhere in a cap and trade system. Cap and trade offers no financial reward to the consumer or business that invests in energy efficiency measures.
In a perfect world, lawmakers would rethink cap and trade to encompass demand-side efficiency. But it appears that political and technical obstructions make that difficult. This is bad news – and downright odd – given that energy efficiency is widely acknowledged to be the cheapest way to cut carbon dioxide emissions.
So what’s to be done?
Prindle describes the need to enact polices that complement cap and trade. This is where a national renewable energy standard comes into play. Within Waxman/Markey, the standard requires not only a certain percentage of renewables in a state’s energy mix, but also certain amount of efficiency – a so-called energy efficiency portfolio standard. With a standard in place, efficiency increases, energy use declines, and fewer greenhouse gases are emitted – without any cap and trade influence. As is often the case, the states have already jumped out in front of federal policy: 19 now have such energy efficiency portfolio standards.
A bill with just a cap and trade scheme, one without a portfolio standard, eliminates a powerful way to reduce carbon emissions. So perhaps the 1,400 pages of Waxman/Market are justified. The verdict, of course, is out on whether or not Congress will pass an energy bill this year. Much has been made of the complexity and length of health care reform legislation. Expect the same when, and if, the energy bill comes under public scrutiny. We’ll see what pages make it beyond the cutting room floor.
To read and comment on the rest of the blog, go to
http://energyefficiencymarkets.wordpress.com/ or
http://energyefficiencymarkets.blogspot.com/
Podcast
The link between DSM and wind energy integration part 1
In part one of this interview, Lisa Cohn of Energy Efficiency Markets interviews Josh Schellenberg, senior analyst, Freeman, Sullivan and Co.--who specializes in demand-side program evaluation--about the role of DSM in integrating wind into the grid.
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
Department of Energy announces steps to strengthen enforcement of energy efficiency standards
http://www.energy.gov/news2009/8129.htm
New report identifies best program strategies for realizing energy efficiency in industry
http://www.aceee.org/press/ie091pr.htm
DOE's Chu plugs solar and building efficiency
http://news.cnet.com/8301-11128_3-10371478-54.html
Industry, advocates agree on new home heating, cooling standards
Nation's first TV energy efficiency standards will cut CO2 by 3.5 million tons
Massachusetts readies $1.1B energy efficiency program
Requests for Proposals
California Energy Commission
The Energy Innovations Small Grant Program provides up to $95,000 for hardware projects and $50,000 for modeling projects to small businesses, non-profits, individuals and academic institutions to conduct research that establishes the feasibility of new, innovative energy concepts. Research projects must target one of the PIER R&D areas, address a California energy problem and provide a potential benefit to California electric and natural gas ratepayers.
Proposals are due by October 27.
Questions should be directed to the EISG Program Administrator (619) 594-1049, eisgp@energy.state.ca.us.
For more information go to http://www.energy.ca.gov/research/innovations/
North Carolina State Energy Office
The State Energy Office seeks proposals for energy efficiency services and measures at private non-profit organizations in North Carolina. The objective is to ensure that a large number of nonprofit organizations adopt energy efficiency measures that will reduce their energy expenses, allowing more of their budget to be spent on program services. A secondary objective is to train volunteers, drawn from their membership, board of directors and staff of the agency, to install some of the simple energy efficiency measures on the non-profit organization’s buildings, thereby further leveraging program dollars and training more citizens in energy efficiency techniques and materials.
Proposals are due October 23.
Questions should be directed to Mildred Christmas, mildred.christmas@doa.nc.gov
For more information go to https://www.ips.state.nc.us/IPS/AGENCY/PDF/06987500.pdf
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
Efficiency Maine and Carbon Savings Trust
Efficiency Maine and the Energy and Carbon Savings Trust announce a $9 million energy efficiency and conservation competitive grant program to save energy and jobs by investing in large scale energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. Efficiency Maine is funding this program through American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds and the Energy and Carbon Savings Trust is funding this program through the revenues received from Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative auctions.
Questions should be directed to Evelyn DeFrees 207-287-6141, evelyn.defrees@maine.gov
For more information go to http://www.maine.gov/tools/whatsnew/index.php?topic=puc-pressreleases&id=80020&v=article08
The Ontario Power Authority
The OPA seeks proposals for consulting services from parties interested in preparing a research report on district energy with or without distributed generation. This research report should be non-biased and evidence based with no preconception about the conclusions. The purpose of this research report is to update the OPA’s information and data on district energy.
Proposals are due October 29.
Questions should be directed to OPA Procurement Services, opa.procurement@powerauthority.on.ca
For more information go to http://www.powerauthority.on.ca/Page.asp?PageID=122&ContentID=7003&SiteNodeID=135&BL_ExpandID
The Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources
DOER invites proposals for $15 million in ARRA funding for projects that dramatically increase energy efficiency in buildings. The stimulus funding is available to both public and private entities, including businesses, hospitals, universities, municipalities, community organizations, and others.
Proposals are due October 30.
Questions should be directed to Alissa Whiteman at Alissa.Whiteman@state.ma.us, (617) 626-7384
For more information go to
The Department of Energy
The DOE seeks to develop a well-trained, highly skilled electric power workforce to build a national clean-energy smart grid. This FOA supports the development and deployment of Training Program(s), as well as the actual training of personnel.
Proposals are due November 23.
Questions should be directed to Linda Jarnagin, linda_k_jarnagin@rl.gov.
For more information go to
https://www.fedconnect.net/FedConnect/?doc=DE-FOA-0000152&agency=DOE
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
GSH Group, Inc. Energy Efficiency Seminar: October 20, Woodland Park, New Jersey & October 22, New York City
http://www.gshgroup.com/us/news-article.asp?id=128
Corporate Climate Regulation: October 27 - 28, Chicago
http://www.asaseries.com/v8-12/Prospectus/Index.php?sEventCode=AS0909CHICAGO
Behavior, Energy & Climate Change Conference: November 15 - 18, Washington D.C.
http://aceee.org/conf/09becc/09beccindex.htm
Airports Energy Efficiency Forum: November 16 - 18, Seattle
http://events.aaae.org/sites/091103/index.cfm
The National Association of Energy Service Companies Annual Conference: November 17 - 18, Los Angeles
http://www.naesco.org/events/conference/annual/default.htm
Balance of Systems & Balance of Plants Conference & Expo: December 3 - 4, San Diego
http://www.newsolartoday.com/bosbop/index.shtml
ZiptoGreen Energy Efficiency Blog
Please see our regular column on energy efficiency at ziptogreen.com, a new interactive website to help consumers reduce energy use.
Lisa Cohn’s new Energy Blog
Read and comment on Lisa Cohn's new energy blog, Cohn's Corner, for SNL Energy:
http://www2.snl.com/Interactivex/article.aspx?CdId=A-10174424-14129
Check out stories we are writing on twitter.com
