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INDUSTRY NEWS... EPA Releases List of Top 50 Green-Powered Organizations Source: EPA The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently released an updated list of the Top 50 Green Power Partnership organizations voluntarily using renewable electricity from resources such as solar, wind, and low-impact hydropower. Intel Corporation tops the list as the largest single user of green power, followed by Kohl's Department Stores, and Microsoft Corporation. Intel, which has ranked number one on the list since 2008, uses more than 2.5 billion kWh of green power annually, or 88% of the company's total nationwide electricity use. Microsoft and McDonald’s USA LLC, which ranks eleventh, are new to the list. (more)
Despite Long-Standing Barriers, Opportunities Abound for States Furthest Behind on Energy Efficiency Source: ACEEE Energy efficiency is gaining momentum in states traditionally ranked near the bottom of the American Council for Energy-Efficient Economy's (ACEEE) annual State Energy Efficiency Scorecard. While these states must address numerous barriers to energy efficiency, a real window of opportunity exists to move efficiency forward, according to a new report, Opportunity Knocks: Examining Low-Ranking States in the State Energy Efficiency Scorecard (http://aceee.org/research-report/e126), released by ACEEE. (more)
Google's Huge Offshore Wind Transmission Line Edges Forward Source: Business Green A proposed $5 billion transmission line connecting wind farms off the East Coast of the U.S. to the mainland is on track to come online by 2017, after the Google-backed project cleared another regulatory hurdle. (more)
Climate Policy Initiative Analysis of Four Countries Shows All Could Do Better in Monitoring Policy Source: Climate Policy Initiative Climate Policy Initiative (CPI)'s has completed an analysis of national systems that track emissions and activities to reduce emissions in the U.S., Germany, Italy, and China. The analysis revealed that existing systems allow these nations to determine if they are meeting their emission reduction targets, but do not allow them to identify which of their policies are most effective and efficient. (more)
Pepco Saves Delaware College $9 Million in Energy Costs Source: Environmental Leader Pepco Energy Services will save Delaware Technical Community College more than $9 million in energy costs by installing more than $7 million in energy conservation measures at the college’s Wilmington, Stanton, Terry and Owens campuses, according to the company. (more)
Adura Technologies Wins SF Business Times Tech & Innovation Award for Best Energy Efficiency Company Source: Company Adura Technologies, a leading provider of wireless lighting controls and energy management systems, has won a San Francisco Business Times 2012 Tech and Innovation Award. Adura’s Wireless Lighting Control System garnered top honors in the Energy Efficiency, Management and Storage category. Adura was one of nearly 200 companies nominated for the 2012 awards, the first to combine both technology and cleantech. “Adura has clearly made its mark as a cleantech leader in San Francisco,” said Mark Golan, CEO of Adura Technologies. “The recognition by the San Francisco Business Times of our standing among some of the most innovative companies in the world in the most forward-thinking, technologically creative city in the world means a lot.” (more)
Specialized retrofit financing a boon for Johnson Controls Source: Greenbiz.com When it comes to considering energy efficiency retrofits, the key factors for building owners -- and biggest past deterrents -- are the cost of the project and financing. (more)
Telecom Industry to Shift More Capital to Energy Efficiency Source: Environmental Leader The telecom service industry will invest more than 61 percent of its capital expenditures into sustainable infrastructure by 2016, representing a $194 billion market, according to a Pike Research report. (more)
Energy Department Announces Milestone in Fuel Cell Use Source: DOE In support of President Obama's all-of-the-above energy strategy, the Energy Department announced that more than one thousand fuel cells were deployed through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Over the last three years, nearly 1,200 fuel cells have been deployed in emergency backup power units and material handling equipment, such as forklift trucks. This investment is a part of the Department's commitment to U.S. leadership in innovative fuel cell technologies to give American businesses more options to cut energy costs and reduce petroleum use. (more)
Schneider joins ABB, Siemens, Eaton in EV quick charging race Source: Greenbiz Quick charging, also known as fast charging, is widely considered an important gateway to the mass adoption of electric vehicles. The process "fills up" an EV battery up to 80 percent capacity in 15 to 30 minutes, effectively extending the range for all-electric vehicles as long as a string of quick-charging stations are on the way. (more)
Frito-Lay Expands EV Fleet, Adds CNG Trucks Source: Environmental Leader Frito-Lay will purchase 100 all-electric trucks in 2012, bringing its electric fleet to more than 280, and will deploy compressed natural gas vehicles in the coming months. (more)
Energy-Efficient GE LED Street Lighting Works Wonders for Any Size City Source: Company From Las Vegas to Superior, Neb., GE’s Evolve™ LED Roadway fixtures are saving cities, big and small, a bundle on energy costs. With the installation of more than 41,000 GE Evolve LED streetlights, Las Vegas will reduce combined electricity and maintenance expenses to nearly $2.7 million a year, while in Superior, 600 LED fixtures have shaved $20,000 off annual spending for the town of 2,000. (more)
Lighting Up the Skyline Source: Distributed Energy One of the nation’s most iconic structures recently got a facelift. As part of an ongoing energy efficiency and retrofit plan for the Empire State Building, 400 of the building’s existing standard lamps will be replaced by 1200 LED fixtures. The owners of the building have been working for some time on improving the structure’s energy efficiency with everything from high-tech windows to state-of-the-art HVAC systems. (more)
GE Technology to Boost Output of Poland’s Next Utility-Scale Wind Projects Source: Company Germany--(BUSINESS WIRE)--GE (NYSE: GE) will supply 38 wind turbines for four wind projects in construction in Northern Poland. When operational, these projects, referred to collectively as Darlowo Wind Energy Center—Phase Two (Darlowo—Phase Two), will mark the first use of GE’s 2.5-megawatt class wind turbines that feature 103-meter rotors for high productivity in Poland. (more)
Goodyear to Receive Manny Award for Zero Waste to Landfill Program Source: Company The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company (NYSE: GT) will receive a 2012 Manny Award in the "Green Initiative" category from Inside Business, a bimonthly business publication in Northeast Ohio. The award is in recognition of Goodyear's Zero Waste to Landfill Program. (more)
Lime Energy Completes LEED Gold Design Facility for the US Army Corps of Engineers Source: Company Lime Energy Co. (NASDAQ: LIME) announced the completion of their LEED Gold Design- Build-Exhibit Project at Table Rock Dam and Lake. The $10.4 million, Dewey Short Visitor Center encompasses 15,000 square feet with an emphasis on energy efficiency, sustainability and educational exhibits. The exhibits were developed to proactively engage the public in sustainability experiences that encourage a broader appreciation of the features and resources of the entire region. The new center is named in honor of Congressman Dewey Short, who was instrumental in the approval of the Table Rock Project – a 252 feet high, 6,243 feet long concrete dam which provides flood control for 4,020 square miles of the White River watershed and a 52,300 surface area lake next to the popular tourist destination of Branson, MO. (more)
The 7 Lessons Learned From 24 Million EV Miles Source: Greenbiz In the world of electric vehicles, nothing attracts as much speculation or disagreement as the debate over exactly how EV drivers behave. Do they need 100 miles of range or will 30 miles do? How many public recharge stations do they need? Do energy prices influence charging? And so on. (more)
London's Race for a Greener Olympics Source: Greenbiz Barely two months remain before throngs of athletes and spectators crowd into London for the 2012 Summer Olympics. Along with the traditional, frantic last-minute preparations, the host city is also hustling to deliver on its pledge to make these Summer Games the greenest ever. (more)
NREL Develops More Precise Look at Cradle-to-Grave Greenhouse Gas Emissions for Energy Technologies Source: NREL A new approach to assessing greenhouse-gas emissions from coal, wind, solar and other energy technologies paints a much more precise picture of cradle-to-grave emissions and should help sharpen decisions on what new energy projects to build. (more)
Southern California Edison Joins the Demand Response Partnership Program Source: Distributed Energy The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) announced that Southern California Edison (SCE) has joined the Demand Response Partnership Program (DRPP) as the first utility host sponsor. The Demand Response Partnership Program engages the commercial building and energy industries to educate, promote and drive participation in existing demand response programs, while undertaking a robust research agenda focused on market adoption, grid reliability and environmental impact through improved energy efficiency. (more)
Obama Administration Names 78 Schools in 29 States as First-Ever Green Ribbon Schools Source: Distributed Energy U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan was joined by White House Council on Environmental Quality Chair Nancy Sutley and Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lisa Jackson to announce the first-ever U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools, a list including 78 schools that span 29 states and D.C. (more)
Sacramento May Expand Energy Program Source: Sacramento Business Journal The city of Sacramento is poised to expand its program to help commercial building owners pay for energy-efficiency improvements. The City Council is scheduled to consider declaring its intent to establish a community facilities district for the Clean Energy Sacramento program, which would replace Sacramento’s Property-Assessed Clean Energy — or PACE — program. More than 200 property owners and contractors have already signed up for that program, set to roll out this spring. (more)
EPA Awards $1 Million to Colleges for Environmental Solutions Source: EPA The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that it has awarded more than $1 million in grants to 15 university and college teams. The awards went to teams from across the country that participated in the eighth Annual National Sustainable Design Expo on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., for their innovative environmental solutions. EPA's People, Prosperity and the Planet (P3) award competition was held at the expo and featured more than 300 college innovators showcasing their sustainable projects designed to protect the environment, encourage economic growth, and use natural resources more efficiently. (more)
Energy Department Boosts Initiative for Women in Clean Energy Source: EERE News The Energy Department announced a three-part plan to help implement the Clean Energy Education and Empowerment (C3E) Women's Initiative aimed at attracting more women to clean energy careers and advancing their leadership positions. The new program, in partnership with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Energy Initiative, is designed to translate the goals of C3E into action in the United States. (more)
Duke Energy Renewables Acquires Two Arizona Solar Farms Source: Company Duke Energy now owns two large-scale solar farms in Arizona – the company’s first in the American West. Duke Energy Renewables, a commercial business unit of Duke Energy, purchased the Ajo Solar Project and Bagdad Solar Project from Recurrent Energy in August. Arizona Public Service Co. (APS) will buy all of the output from both solar farms from Duke Energy Renewables under the terms of two 25-year power purchase agreements. (APS originally signed these agreements with Recurrent Energy.) (more)
GE Charges Up Its WattStation with A Fully Networked Platform Source: Greenbiz With its stylish, pedestal design, GE Energy's WattStation electric-vehicle charger is finally ready to roll to the masses. Originally conceived and constructed by Yves Behar in 2010, the new WattStation -- unveiled this week -- is debuting with an integrated software platform for EV drivers, fleet managers and commercial station owners. (more)
City of West Covina Leads the Way in Saving Energy and Money Source: Company The City of West Covina was recognized in front of 300 West Covina community leaders, residents, and businesses for being the first local government out of an eligible 111 in Southern California Edison's (SCE) service territory to advance to "Platinum level status," the highest award a city can receive from SCE for its accomplishments in energy reduction and long-term energy planning. The City's achievements have resulted in more than 92 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of energy savings in the community and its municipal facilities, and the City has avoided $235,148 in energy costs in its municipal facilities. The City was hailed for its forward thinking approach to energy efficiency, investing precious dollars into energy efficiency projects that will reap short- and long-term cost savings even during these challenging economic times. (more)
California Emissions Plan Goes Forward Source: Energybiz California is set to take another jaw-dropping energy gamble with the next step in the state's cap-and-trade system, which state energy officials believe will significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. But skeptics fear it will place upward pressure on energy prices. (more)
Adura Technologies Adds Oakland’s Kaiser Center to Facilities Cutting Energy Waste Source: Company Adura Technologies, a leading provider of wireless lighting controls and energy management systems, announced growth in two key areas. Adura has added the 500,000 square foot Kaiser Center Garage, one of the largest privately-owned garages in Oakland, to the list of facilities under the control of the company’s Wireless Lighting Control System. The company has also announced the completion of an $8.5 million Series B round of funding. (more)
GE’s Energy Storage Business & Arista Power Sign Cooperation Agreement Source: Company GE’s Energy Storage business, a unit of GE Transportation, recently signed a Business Cooperation Agreement with Arista Power, Inc. to jointly promote and market Arista’s new Power on Demand System that will incorporate GE’s new Durathon™ Batteries (more)
How Microsoft Is Using Data to Slash Its Energy Bills Source: Greenbiz Many companies already collect data to make sure their sustainability programs stay on track. But data collection also can go a long way toward helping companies set up an effective -- and potentially even profitable -- program in the first place. (more)
Atlantic Solar Capital Management Announces Minority Stake in New Jersey Solar Installation Company Source: Company Atlantic Solar Capital Management LLC announced that it has acquired a minority ownership interest in Sunray Solar Inc., a New Jersey based designer and integrator of solar electric systems in the residential and commercial markets. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. (more)
Energy Department Announces Solar "Plug-and-Play" Funding Solar Source: EERE News The Energy Department on announced that up to $5 million is available this year to develop "plug-and-play" photovoltaic (PV) systems. These are off-the-shelf systems that can be purchased, installed, and operational in one day. This effort is part of the Energy Department's strategy to spur solar power deployment by reducing non-hardware, or "soft" costs, such as installation, permitting, and interconnection, which currently amount to more than half of the total cost of residential systems. The funding, part of the Energy Department's SunShot Initiative, will help drive innovations to fundamentally change the design and installation of residential PV systems, reducing costs for homeowners and simplifying installations and grid connectivity. (more)
Michigan Company Unveils EV Systems Manufacturing Facility Source: DOE The Energy Department announced the opening of an electric vehicle (EV) component manufacturing facility in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan. The Magna E-Car Systems plant received $40 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 funding from the Energy Department. The facility will provide components for EV systems, including those in the 2012 Ford Focus EV. It helps support the department's EV-Everywhere Challenge, a broad initiative to make EVs more affordable and convenient to own than today's gasoline-powered vehicles within the next 10 years. (more)
Southern California Chapter of Association of Energy Engineers Honors Demand Response Project Source: Company Honeywell (NYSE: HON)announced that the company’s smart grid project with Custom Building Products won the “Energy Project of the Year” award from the Southern California Chapter of the Association for Energy Engineers (AEE). The Honeywell project provides Custom Building Products with precise control over how its Bell, Calif., manufacturing facility uses energy, enabling it to automatically respond to changing peak electricity prices and trim utility bills. (more)
Billionaire Pickens Building Downsized Wind Farm Source: BEPA Billionaire T. Boone Pickens is constructing a 377-megawatt (MW) wind farm in Texas. Mesa Power Group, the renewable energy company Pickens created in 2007, is co-developing the wind farm with Wind Tex Energy. (more)
US Solar Market Will Explode within Five Years Source: WSJ Within the next five years solar energy in a large portion of the US will be cheaper than power from the grid. Costs of solar panels and installation keep moving down, while the transportation costs of electricity move up. When solar power reaches the 'holy grail' of grid parity the solar market in the US will boost, and a sleeping giant will awake. (more)
Carnegie Mellon Examine Economic Feasibility Of Using Direct Current Circuits To Power Lights Source: Company For more than a century, electric power has been produced and distributed using alternating current (AC) technology championed by George Westinghouse and Nikola Tesla. (more)
Essess: Google Street View for Building Energy Efficiency Source: Greenbiz A Cambridge, Mass.-based startup, Essess, has found a novel way to spot energy leaks for residential and commercial buildings: drive-by energy audits. Equipped with multi-spectral thermal cameras mounted on top of vehicles, the company captures high-speed images to build a database of energy consumption for buildings, neighborhoods and cities. (more)
Mitsubishi Electric Launches Seventh Environmental Plan Source: Company Mitsubishi Electric Corporation announced it has launched as of this month its Seventh Environmental Plan, a three-year action plan aligned with Environmental Vision 2021, the long-term environmental management vision of the Mitsubishi Electric Group. The plan aims to contribute to the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions on both the product ion and end-use sides, supports other efforts to realize recycling-based societies and expands environmental business. (more)
Honda Debuts Rare Earth Recycling for Cars Source: Greenbiz Honda has announced it has teamed up with the Japan Metals & Chemicals Company to develop what is being hailed as the world's first mass-production rare-earth recycling process. (more)
Residents Can Monitor Their Power Usage Using Smart Grid Technology Deployed Over New Optic Cable Source: Company The City of Opelika, Alabama will soon be providing residents with the ability to monitor and manage their own energy consumption to help save money and make their homes greener with the help of smart grid technology from Alcatel-Lucent (ALU). A new fiber optic network will also give residents the opportunity to access new high-quality broadband voice, data and video services, including lightning-fast Internet access, IPTV and video-on-demand services. (more)
PG&E Announces New Green Energy Program to Give Electric Customers More Renewable Options Source: Company Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) said that it has asked state regulators for permission to offer a new clean energy program that will give electric customers an opportunity to support 100 percent renewable energy for an average of a few dollars a month. PG&E is proposing the "Green Option" in response to requests from customers, elected officials, and the environmental community for more ways to promote renewable energy. (more)
Project to Map ‘Every U.S. Commercial Rooftop’ for Solar Potential Source: Environmental Leader Satellite imagery company GeoEye has teamed up with Geostellar in a partnership that aims to map and catalog the photovoltaic solar potential of every commercial and residential property in the United States. (more)
Ameresco Receives $4.5M for Energy Efficiency Upgrades to University Medical Center Source: Company Ameresco, Inc. (NYSE:AMRC - News), a leading energy efficiency and renewable energy company, announced today that it has signed and started construction on an Energy Savings Performance Contract (ESPC) with the University Medical Center of Southern Nevada (UMC). Ameresco will install over $4.5 million of energy efficiency improvements at UMC. UMC anticipates that these energy efficiency improvements will save them over $200,000 annually while also addressing critical infrastructure needs. The project is expected to be completed in early 2013. (more)
Lockheed Martin Releases 2011 Corporate Sustainability Report Source: Company Lockheed Martin released its 2011 Corporate Sustainability Report, outlining its performance in five non-financial areas – environmental, ethics, diversity and inclusion, global community outreach, and occupational health and safety. It also summarizes key corporate governance actions and includes a timeline tracing Lockheed Martin's 100 years of sustainable thinking. (more)
Royal Caribbean Ships to Cut up to 20% of Energy, GHGs Source: Environmental Leader Royal Caribbean has awarded more than $60 million in orders to automation technology group ABB, to provide power and propulsion systems for two energy-efficient cruise ships. The ships are scheduled for delivery in fall 2014 and spring 2015. (more)
DOE Report Compares Life-Cycle Energy Consumption of LED Lamps with Incumbent Lighting Technologies Source: Craig DiLouie The discussion about LEDs as an energy and environmental cure-all has led to some skepticism about whether LEDs are truly big energy-savers and green when one considers the total lifecycle energy and environmental cost of the product, including manufacturing and transportation. To its credit, DOE took this seriously enough to commission a study. The first report, dealing with lifecycle energy consumption for replacement lamps, was recently published: Review of the Life-Cycle Energy Consumption of Incandescent, Compact Fluorescent, and LED Lamps. The second report will address luminaires as well, and also incorporate environmental impacts. (more)
Greenvironment and SAACKE Present New Product for High-Efficient Steam Generation Source: Company Together with the renowned SAACKE GmbH, a world leader in combustion technology, Greenvironment is bringing a low-emission solution for steam production to market, which achieves an overall efficiency of up to 96 percent. The applications for this innovative solution are manifold and include beverage, paper pulp, food, pharmaceuticals, textiles as well as industrial goods. (more)
Capstone Receives Order for 30 More C65 Microturbines From Multiple Oil & Gas Producers Source: Company Capstone Turbine Corporation, a leading clean technology manufacturer of microturbine energy systems, announced it continues to expand its presence in the Eagle Ford Shale Play with the sale of 30 more C65 microturbines. (more)
Honeywell Green Jet Fuel™ to Power Flights Using New Biofeedstock Specifically Designed for Biofuel Source: Company UOP LLC, a Honeywell (NYSE: HON) company, announced that Honeywell Green Jet Fuel™ will be used for the world's first comprehensive test program using a new biofeedstock specifically designed for biofuel production. (more)
Think Energy to Bring Specialized Retail Electricity Services to Small Businesses in TX, PA, NY Source: Company Think Energy, the competitive retail electricity provider specifically launched by GDF SUEZ Energy Resources to serve small business customers, announced that it will expand its market presence to Texas, Pennsylvania, and New York. (more)
Energy Department Report Finds Major Potential to Increase Clean Hydroelectric Power Source: DOE As part of President Obama's all-out, all-of-the-above energy strategy, the Energy Department released a renewable energy resource assessment detailing the potential to develop electric power generation at existing dams across the United States that aren't currently equipped to produce power. The report estimates that without building a single new dam, these available hydropower resources, if fully developed, could provide an electrical generating capacity of more than 12 gigawatts (GW), equivalent to roughly 15% of current U.S. hydropower capacity. These findings demonstrate one of the ways the nation can diversify its energy portfolio while achieving the Administration's goal of generating 80% of our nation's electricity from clean resources by 2035. (more)
Lighting Science Group Launches World's Most Efficient LED MR16 50-Watt Equivalent Bulb Source: Company Lighting Science Group, a premier LED lighting manufacturer, announced the production launch of a revolutionary high output 8-watt LED MR16 bulb that is a direct replacement for traditional MR16 50-watt halogen bulbs. Suited to a variety of applications that require directional lighting—such as track lighting, recessed ceiling lights, desk lamps, pendant fixtures and retail display lighting—the DEFINITY™ MR16 HO LED bulb will be the first of its kind introduced to the marketplace, and considered the best of its breed when evaluated by metrics of efficiency, lumen output and form factor. (more)
Capstone Expands Presence in Hospital Market With Order for C1000 From Michigan Hospital Source: Company Capstone Turbine Corporation (www.capstoneturbine.com) (Nasdaq:CPST - News), a leading clean technology manufacturer of microturbine energy systems, announced it continues to expand its presence in the hospital market with the sale of a dual-mode C1000 Power Package to a Michigan hospital that will operate in a combined heat and power (CHP) application. (more)
Higher Oil Costs Could Speed Up the Use of New 'Green' Materials Such as Old Paper Money in Cars Source: Company Rising oil prices have Ford upping the ante in its push to reduce petroleum dependence and use more sustainable materials – including retired U.S. paper currency – to make parts. (more)
Renewable Energy From Waste Management: Landfill to Produce 3.2 Megawatts Of Electricity Source: Company With the nation's need for renewable energy increasing, Waste Management (NYSE: WM) opened northern Nevada's first and only Gas-To-Energy power plant at its Lockwood Landfill, which will use landfill gas produced onsite to generate electricity. The project will create enough renewable energy to power more than 1,800 homes. To commemorate the event, WM hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony featuring Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval. (more)
SolarKindle Now On Sale Source: CleanTechnica The SolarKindle, which won the CES 2012 Innovation Award and guarantees 3 months of unplugged reading time, is now on sale. SolarFocus, the creator of this solar-powered e-reader cover, has also announced a new Facebook Mother¡¯s Day Promo Campaign in which people can wind Amazon gift cards worth $200. (more)
UT Southwestern Medical Center Utilizes Comverge Demand Response Services to Optimize Energy Use Source: Company Comverge, Inc., the leading provider of Intelligent Energy Management solutions for Residential and Commercial & Industrial (C&I) customers, announced that it was selected by UT Southwestern Medical Center to support its successful participation in the Electricity Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) Demand Response program. By leveraging Comverge's demand response expertise, the leading academic medical center, which is part of the University of Texas System, was able to successfully curtail its energy consumption by 9 MW during the 2011 demand response season. (more)
BP to Implement Carbon Offset Program for Fedex® Envelope Source: Company BP announced a deal with FedEx to offset the carbon emissions of over 200 million FedEx Envelopes shipped worldwide yearly. Through the carbon-neutral FedEx Envelope shipping program, FedEx will calculate the carbon dioxide released through FedEx Envelope shipments on an annual basis and purchase the equivalent amount of carbon offsets from BP’s not-for-profit, BP Target Neutral scheme. This will neutralize the equivalent amount of CO2 emissions by supporting investments in low carbon development projects that reduce or remove carbon from being released into the atmosphere. (more)
Industrial Energy Management Market to Grow 21.6% a Year to 2020, Study Says Source: Environmental Leader The U.S. market for industrial energy management software and services will rise from $960 million in 2011 to $5.6 billion by 2020, a compound annual growth rate of 21.6 percent, according to Pike Research. (more)
Commercial PACE Program Comes to Florida -First of Its Kind Source: CleanTechnia The solar-energy-gifted Sunshine State has a ways to go to catch up to solar power leaders like California and New Jersey. The good news, however, is that one small town in Florida, Lantana, has just implemented the state’s first commercial PACE program, and hopefully this will open the door for many others to do so soon. (more)
New York City Triples Solar Power Production Source: BEPA Thanks to new solar arrays atop ten city buildings, including three police stations, two schools, a fire station, and sanitation department garages, New York City, NY, has tripled its solar power production. The new projects bring the city’s total solar production to 648 kilowatts, which is sufficient to power 143 households. (more)
Boeing 737 MAX to Improve Fuel Burn up to 12% Source: Environmental Leader Boeing has made a series of design updates to its 737 MAX engine variant that will make additional fuel savings available to customers by 2017, the company said. (more)
Essess is the World's First Big Data Company Focused on Commercial and Residential Energy Efficiency Source: Company Essess (www.essess.com), a leading provider of automated energy assessments for commercial and residential buildings, today announced the closing of its $6 million Series A funding round. Vocap Ventures is the largest institutional investor in this round of funding, with additional investment from DFJ Athena, Minder Cheng, Richard Tsai and the company's CEO, Storm Duncan. (more)
Energy Department Announces $2.5 Million to Advance Technologies for Clean-Burning Biomass Cookstove Source: DOE The Energy Department announced up to $2.5 million available this year for applied research to advance clean biomass cookstove technologies for use in developing countries. The funding will support the development of innovative cookstove designs that allow users to burn wood or crop residues more efficiently and with less smoke than open fires and traditional stoves, helping to save lives and improve livelihoods. The Department of Energy, along with other federal agencies, is a founding partner of the Global Alliance for Clean Cookstoves, a public-private partnership to advance cookstove technologies that improve indoor air quality, reduce carbon emissions, and deliver important benefits for people's health and the economies of developing nations around the world. (more)
Conn. Facilities to Tap EnerNOC at 100 Facilities Source: Environmental Leader The State of Connecticut has selected EnerNOC’s EfficiencySmart energy-efficiency system to help it reduce energy use and costs at up to 100 state facilities through 2014. (more)
NV Energy Cooling System to Cut Water Use by 281m Gallons a Year Source: Environmental Leader NV Energy’s coal-fired Reid Gardner Station north of Las Vegas will reduce its water withdrawals by more than 281 million gallons annually with a Nalco cooling system, the companies said. (more)
ASME EA-4-2010 - Energy Assessment for Compressed Air Systems. What’s it all about? Source: By Joe Ghislain for the Compressed Air Challenge® Over the years, analyzing compressed air system operation and efficiency has gone under various names and taken many different shapes and forms. You may know these as; Assessments, Audits, Studies, and Surveys, but in all cases the compressed systems are analyzed using techniques, such as metering and measuring, to assess the system’s performance and identify opportunities for improvement. The problem is that the results of these activities have varied widely; leaving the end-user to try and determine what is usable, credible and implementable. This has led to a lot of “no actions“, resulting in assessments, audits, studies, and surveys being put on the shelf to collect dust. This issue is not unique to compressed air systems and applies to many other industrial systems as well. To try and alleviate this, a decision was made through work on the Superior Energy Performance program (www.superiorenergyperformance.net), which is an initiative guided by the U.S. Council for Energy Efficient Manufacturing, and supported by the Department of Energy, to develop system assessment standards. Applying these standards will assist plant personnel in identifying energy reduction opportunities through system improvements using a consistent and standard method. (more)
Lime Energy Partners with Figtree to Provide PACE Financing for California Customers Source: Company Lime Energy Co. announced a partnership with Figtree Energy Resource Company through which Lime’s Customers will benefit from the most flexible PACE financing options available in the State of California. Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) is a Government initiative that allows property owners to finance energy efficiency and renewable energy projects for their homes and commercial buildings. The addition of PACE will enable Lime’s California customers defray the costs of energy improvements that can be made to their facilities. This financing vehicle through Figtree can be used for energy efficiency, renewable energy and water conservation upgrades to commercial properties. (more)
New Solar Finance Models Set to Replace Government Funding, Report Says Source: Environmental Leader As government-funded financial incentives for solar photovoltaics are reduced in some major markets, price reductions and third-party ownership models will become the key drivers for the PV market for the foreseeable future, according to a report by Pike Research. (more)
Defense Department Targets 3GW of Renewables by 2025 Source: Whitehouse.gov The Obama Administration is announcing new steps to bolster energy security for America’s warfighters – underscoring the significant and inherent connection between energy independence and national security. In Michigan, the Army will open a new 30,000-square-foot lab to develop cutting edge energy technologies for the next generation of combat vehicles. This new lab will support the launch of the Army Green Warrior Convoy, which will test and demonstrate advanced vehicle technology including fuel cells, hybrid systems, battery technologies and alternative fuels. (more)
IBM, Honda, PG&E Launch Smart EV Charging Project Source: Environmental Leader IBM, Honda’s American arm and Pacific Gas and Electric will collaborate on a pilot project to allow communication between electric vehicles and the power grid, the companies have announced. (more)
PSE&G Installs Energy Efficient LED Fixtures for Municipal Streetscapes and Security Source: Company Public Service Electric & Gas Company (PSE&G) has begun installing LED lights that increase reliability and security, are environmentally friendly, and decrease light pollution. The first LED light fixture installations have been completed at Montclair State University, United Water in Haworth and in New Brunswick on George Street between Bayard Street and Liberty Street. The Rutgers University Newark campus is currently undergoing installations. The new lighting is available to municipalities and for commercial customers throughout the utility's service territory. (more)
GE LED Lighting Brings New Radiance, Energy Savings to Marriott Headquarters Source: Company GE Lighting LED solutions were recently installed in several locations at Marriott International’s headquarters located in Bethesda, Md. The installations have enriched lighting quality, heightened employee security and improved energy efficiency. Following its corporate campus-wide lighting update, Marriott will use 860,000 fewer kilowatt hours (kWhs) of electricity and save more than $120,000 in combined energy and maintenance costs a year. (more)
California Commits $100 Million to Build EV-Charging Stations Source: EERE News California Governor Edmund G. Brown, Jr. joined with the California Public Utilities Commission to announce a $100 million dollar fund for the construction of a statewide network of charging stations for electric vehicles (EVs). The plan calls for at least 200 public fast-charging stations and another 10,000 plug-in units at 1,000 locations across the state. The funds come from a $120 million settlement with NRG Energy, Inc. that stems from ten-year-old claims during the state's energy crisis. The settlement did not involve EVs. (more)
Transportation Department Awards $13.1 Million for Green Transit Source: EERE News The U.S. Department of Transportation on April 2 awarded $13.1 million to fund 11 innovative research and demonstration projects under the Federal Transit Administration's (FTA) National Fuel Cell Bus Program. The program advances hydrogen fuel cell power for transit buses and is designed to reduce U.S. dependence on foreign oil and promote cleaner air. (more)
FedEx Express Launches Carbon-Neutral Shipping Source: Environmental Leader FedEx Express, an operating company of FedEx Corp., is launching a carbon-neutral shipping program for its most widely used packaging for document shipping. (more)
GE Pushes GM to Second Place in 2011 U.S. Cleantech Patents Source: Environmental Leader GE led companies securing U.S. patents for clean energy technologies in 2011, with 184, pushing last year’s top company GM down to second place with 127, according to a report from the cleantech group of Heslin Rothenberg Farley & Mesiti P.C. (more)
Delta May Acquire Oil Refinery Source: Yahoo Finance The second largest U.S. airline, Delta Air Lines (NYSE:DAL - News) is considering to buy an oil refinery in Pennsylvania. The company is expected to bid up to $150 million to acquire ConocoPhillips’ (NYSE:COP - News) Traineroil refinery. (more)
GE to Auction 225 MW of Transmission Capacity Connecting NYC, PJM Power Grids Source: Company GE (NYSE: GE) unit GE Energy Financial Services announced that it will auction 225 megawatts of bi-directional electricity transfer capacity from its Linden variable frequency transformer (VFT) smart grid project at the intersection of the New York City and PJM power grids. (more)
Energy Department Announces Up to $4 Million to Develop Wireless Chargers for Electric Vehicles Source: DOE Energy Secretary Steven Chu announced up to $4 million available this year to accelerate the development and deployment of wireless charging systems for electric vehicles (EVs). Developing wireless charging systems for light-duty EVs could accelerate the adoption of these energy efficient vehicles by making them more convenient to charge, both at home and away. The Administration's investments in electric vehicles are part of a comprehensive strategy to reduce America's reliance on foreign oil and help protect American families and businesses from spikes in oil prices (more)
Funding for Small Business Innovation Research in Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Source: DOE The Energy Department announced up to $9 million available this year to fund approximately 50 small businesses to advance innovative energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies. This initiative will help small businesses with promising ideas that could improve manufacturing processes, boost the efficiency of buildings, reduce reliance on oil, and generate electricity from renewable sources to bring new clean energy solutions to market faster. This effort is part of the Obama Administration's strategy to drive innovative clean energy technologies into the market and help spur economic growth, diversify the nation's energy portfolio, and create skilled jobs for American workers. (more)
Germany Government Plans to Reduce Subsidies by Up to 30% Source: The Guardian The German government has said it has been forced to cut subsidies for solar panels, because demand was so high it could no longer afford to support the green technology. The announcement has left Germans rushing to install solar panels on buildings ahead of the planned cut in subsidies of up to 30%. (more)
West Coast EMC Celebrates its 30th Anniversary Focusing on New Developments Shaping the Energy Field Source: AEE West Coast Energy Management Congress (EMC) is celebrating its 30th Anniversary with a focus on new developments shaping the energy field. EMC 2012 features a multi-track conference program and expo to be held at the Washington State Convention Center in Seattle on May 23-24, 2012 (more)
Energy Department Announces Up to $15 Million to Research Biomass-Based Supplements for Traditional Source: DOE As part of President Obama's blueprint for an economy fueled by homegrown and alternative energy sources, the Energy Department announced up to $15 million available to demonstrate biomass-based oil supplements that can be blended with petroleum, helping the United States to reduce foreign oil use, diversify the nation's energy portfolio, and create jobs for American workers. Known as "bio-oils," these precursors for fully renewable transportation fuels could be integrated into the oil refining processes that make conventional gasoline, diesel, and jet fuels without requiring modifications to existing fuel distribution networks or engines (more)
First Projects Certified Under Net Zero Energy Building Certification Source: ED+C Two projects, both existing building retrofits, have completed the first full set of third-party audits for Net Zero Energy Building Certification from the International Living Future Institute (more)
Kendall-Jackson sows the seeds of greener wines Source: Greenbiz Kendall-Jackson Winery has been picking the low-hanging fruit for years. Energy conservation has saved the family-owned winery about $2.5 million annually during the last few years from projects that include a companywide lighting retrofit and new variable-frequency drives that act as dimmers for high-efficiency motors. (more)
Solar Installations to Flatline in 2012, Rebound by 2017, Lux Says Source: Environmental Leader Annual solar capacity additions will rise by just 0.4 GW in 2012, with 26.9 GW expected to be installed this year, and industry revenues will fall by $18 billion to $92 billion, according to a Lux Research report. (more)
Google to Build Its First Thermal Storage for a Data Center Source: Gigaom Google has been more than creative when it comes to making its data centers more energy efficient and greener (seawater cooling and water recycling), and this week says it plans to implement a new energy efficient feature for a data center in Taiwan: thermal energy storage. Thermal energy storage systems commonly use chilled liquid or ice to act as a thermal battery, enabling a data center operator to run air conditioning at night (when rates are cheaper) and during the day pump the chilled liquid around the facility for cooling. (more)
Google to Build its irst thermal storage for a data center Source: Gigaom Google has been more than creative when it comes to making its data centers more energy efficient and greener (seawater cooling and water recycling), and this week says it plans to implement a new energy efficient feature for a data center in Taiwan: thermal energy storage. Thermal energy storage systems commonly use chilled liquid or ice to act as a thermal battery, enabling a data center operator to run air conditioning at night (when rates are cheaper) and during the day pump the chilled liquid around the facility for cooling.
President Bill Clinton to Deliver Keynote Address at Solar Power International 2012 Source: SEIA The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) and the Solar Electric Power Association (SEPA) announced that President Bill Clinton will be the keynote speaker at Solar Power International (SPI) 2012 on September 12 in Orlando, Fla. SPI is the premier global solar energy conference and expo, designed to serve and advance the solar power industry. Taking place September 10 - 13 at the Orange County Convention Center, the show features over 1,200 exhibitors and more than 24,000 attendees from 128 countries. (more)
States and Utilities Leading on Industrial Energy Efficiency Programs Source: ACEEE States and utilities invested over $811 million in industrial energy efficiency programs in 2010, far exceeding the spending by the federal government and other national-level programs. Nationwide, all industrial energy efficiency programs spent well over $1.1 billion in 2010, according to a new report, Money Well Spent: Industrial Energy Efficiency Program Spending in 2010, released by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE). (more)
Greece Eyes Jobs, Growth Impulse From Solar Energy Export Source: Bloomberg Greek Prime Minister Lucas Papademos vowed to accelerate a 20-billion euro ($27 billion) solar-power project that would help the European Union’s most-indebted nation spur growth and export clean energy. (more)
Siemens and Streetline Team up for Smart Parking Source: Greenbiz Siemens is joining forces with Streetline to help reduce the longstanding frustration of drivers seeking parking spots in congested areas. Streetline, a 7-year-old company based in Foster City, Calif., connects sensor-enabled parking meters with smartphone apps to provide cities and drivers with parking options in select urban environments. (more)
Johnson Controls Touts Environmental Leadership, Green Design in 2011 Sustainability Report Source: TriplePundit Johnson Controls has long been touted as a sustainability leader and progressive company. The manufacturing and technology company touches our lives in ways that may not be obvious but are nonetheless important, from car batteries for conventional and hybrid automobiles to buildings’ heating and cooling systems. From the smallest office building to the Empire State Building, the chances are that you are in an environment touched by a Johnson Controls product. (more)
RENEWABLES EXPAND 27% SINCE 2008 Source: EIA According to the most recent issue of the "Monthly Energy Review" by the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), with data through December 31, 2011, renewable energy sources expanded rapidly during the first three years of the Obama Administration while substantially outpacing the growth rates of fossil fuels and nuclear power. (more)
Eaton Awarded $2 Million by Energy Department to Reduce Cost of Advanced Fuel Cells Source: DOE In support of the Obama Administration's all-of-the-above approach to American energy, the Energy Department announced the investment of $2 million to Eaton Corporation in Southfield, Michigan, to lower the cost of advanced fuel cell systems by developing cost-effective, durable, and highly efficient fuel cell components. The 3-year project will focus on boosting the performance of fuel cell systems for vehicles and stationary applications while reducing costs. These investments are a part of the Department's commitment to U.S. leadership in innovative fuel cell technologies that give American families and businesses more options to cut energy costs and reduce petroleum use. (more)
DOE Backs Four New Home Energy Professional Certifications Source: EERE News The Building Performance Institute, Inc. (BPI) will introduce in June four new home energy professional certifications for the U.S. weatherization and home performance workforce. The voluntary certificates offered by BPI are funded by DOE and cover the most common job classifications in the home energy upgrade industry: energy auditor, retrofit installer, crew leader, and quality control inspector. Scheduling will begin in May, and BPI will pilot written and field practical exams in June. The results will be used to set passing scores for the national exams. Candidates who take the initial exams and meet passing requirements will be among the first group of professionals to earn these certifications. BPI expects to roll the exams out nationally in the fall of 2012. (more)
DOE Awards More than $5 Million to Reduce Cost of Advanced Fuel Cells Source: DOE DOE announced its investment of $5 million in two research projects that will aim to reduce the cost of advanced fuel cells. The department awarded $3 million to 3M Company in St. Paul, Minnesota, and $2 million to Eaton Corporation in Southfield, Michigan. The 3-year projects will focus on boosting the performance of fuel cell systems for vehicles and stationary applications while driving down costs. (more)
Why isn't NYC's 'Taxi of Tomorrow' green? Source: Greenbiz Nearly seven years ago, the first hybrid yellow taxis rolled onto the streets of New York City as part of an effort to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions. Today, about 5,000 of these cleaner, greener taxis -- nearly 40 percent of the total fleet -- are in operation, working to cut air pollution, lower noise levels, and lessen our dependence on fossil fuels. The city’s hybrid taxi program was one of the first of its kind, and has served as a model of urban sustainability for other cities around the country. (more)
EnerNOC Tops $500 Million in Customer Savings Worldwide Source: Wall Street Journal EnerNOC, Inc. a leading provider of energy management applications and services, announced that it has achieved more than $500 million in estimated savings to date for its commercial, institutional, and industrial (C&I) customers through its demand response, energy efficiency, and energy supply procurement solutions. EnerNOC works closely with more than 4,900 businesses and organizations worldwide on their energy management initiatives, helping its C&I customers to spend less on energy, use it more efficiently, and be paid to participate in demand response programs. These efforts have resulted in more than half a billion dollars in estimated savings and payments that have gone directly to energy users in EnerNOC's global network. (more)
Green Classrooms In L.A. Come With A Breath Of Fresh Air Source: Earthtechling California's first zero net energy classrooms are also offering students and teachers alike a breath of fresh air, quite literally. In addition to roof-mounted solar panels that generate 100 percent of the building’s power, the classrooms have huge low-E view windows, Energy Star rated skylights and an outdoor ventilation system circulates fresh, filtered air. (more)
Grants Fuel Solar Energy Projects Source: BEPA Dozens of farms and small businesses in Tennessee has received Agriculture Department grants to develop solar power systems that can contribute to local energy grids. (more)
South Fork Energy Efficiency Program Launches in East Hampton Source: BEPA The Long Island Power Authority's South Fork Efficiency Initiative includes LIPA's Small Business Direct Install lighting efficiency program, offered to small and mid-size businesses. Eligible business customers may receive a free lighting survey and a complete report detailing upgrades, the cost and expected energy savings, and the payback. If customers agree to move forward, LIPA may pay up 70 percent of the project. (more)
IKEA Powers-up Solar Energy Panels at Portland, OR Store Source: Wall Street Journal IKEA, the world’s leading home furnishings retailer, officially plugged-in the solar energy system installed at its store in Portland, Oregon. The 62,500-square-foot PV array consists of a 497.3-kW system, built with 2,072 panels. IKEA Portland’s program will produce approximately 568,900 kWh of clean electricity annually, the equivalent of reducing 432 tons of carbon dioxide (CO2), eliminating the emissions of 77 cars or powering 48 homes yearly (calculating clean energy equivalents at www.epa.gov/cleanenergy/energy-resources/calculator.html ). (more)
Obama Administration and Great Lakes States Announce Agreement to Spur Development of Offshore Wind Source: EERE News As part of President Obama's all of the above approach to energy, the Obama Administration today joined with the governors of Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Pennsylvania to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will streamline the efficient and responsible development of offshore wind resources in the Great Lakes. This effort underscores the President's commitment to American-made energy, increasing energy independence, and creating jobs. (more)
GSA Launches Building Portfolio Management System Source: USGBC One of the nation’s largest public real estate organizations is launching a new building portfolio management system, designed to benchmark performance in sustainable building operations across its portfolio - roughly 375 million square feet. (more)
Coca-Cola Leads Summer Energy Saving Efforts, Supporting Reconstruction in Japan Source: Company Coca-Cola Japan announced on March 30 new voluntary energy-saving measures that will reduce the potential for electric power disruptions this summer. The additional efforts were announced at the conclusion of a two-day series of events in Tokyo attended by Muhtar Kent, Chairman and CEO of The Coca-Cola Company. His participation comes one year after his trip to Japan immediately following the March 11 disasters. Kent met with Coca-Cola Japan management and staff as well as all Japan bottling partners for an update on the progress of the Company's efforts to support the recovery in Japan. (more)
ANSI to Host Exploratory Meeting for Energy Efficiency Standards Panel to Support Energy Economy Source: Wall Street Journal On April 25, the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), coordinator of the private-sector-led U.S. voluntary standardization system, will host an exploratory meeting to examine the need for an Energy Efficiency Standards Panel (EESP) to develop a standardization roadmap for energy efficiency initiatives in the United States. (more)
California Moving Forward with Greenhouse Gas Reduction Law Source: BEPA Through vigorous regulations on fuel standards, vehicles, and communities, California’s sweeping Global Warming Solutions Act is seen as a broad solution that will attempt to significantly decrease emissions and improve air-quality levels over the next decade and beyond. With rules in place, implementation of the law has been pushed back to 2013, and supporters fear legal barriers and a recessive economy could create further delays. (more)
Green Button paves way for new commercial energy tools Source: Greenbiz The Green Button is going viral. A growing number of utilities and technology vendors have committed to using and extending the program to give residential and commercial energy users secure access to their energy usage data. (more)
REGEN Energy™ Enhances its Swarm Energy Management™ Platform with LiveHive™ Source: Company REGEN Energy™ proudly announces the release of its latest set of enhancements to the patented Swarm Energy Management™ platform, now featuring LiveHive™. The LiveHive feature allows REGEN's electric load controllers to sense live changing conditions and automatically adjust their own setting in response to these changes, thereby optimizing the swarm's peak reduction savings across warm or cool days. The LiveHive feature is capable of instinctively compensating for loads with significant changes in behavior, such as an HVAC unit governing a large indoor space that has to work more aggressively when a large number of people arrive. LiveHive functionality will add a further 5-10% of peak reduction savings to our customers' bottom line, all without any additional work or changes in daily function on the part of the facilities manager or the building tenants. "That's the beauty of Swarm Energy Management – it regulates itself, automatically optimizing energy and comfort while allowing building owners and managers to focus on core business," said Tim Angus, CEO. (more)
China's Great Solar Opportunity for Australia Source: WallStreet Journal Opportunities for greater collaboration between Australia and China were in the spotlight for the Chief Executive of the Australian Solar Energy Society (AuSES), John Grimes, when he spoke at the Sixth China (Jinan) Solar Utilization Convention and Exhibition in Shandong Province this month. (more)
Army Plans $7 Billion in Industry Partnerships for Renewables Source: EERE News The U.S. Army reported that it will partner with industry to invest up to $7 billion over the next 10 years in renewable energy sources, including wind, solar, biomass, and geothermal energy. The military department has released a draft request for proposal (RFP) that could allow multiple projects to begin nationwide. The draft RFP indicates that the Army intends to primarily purchase renewable-generated electricity through power purchase agreements with the project developers. (more)
lon Enables Micro Grids In India and South Africa Source: Company Echelon Corporation (NASDAQ: ELON) announced two micro grid deployments in India and South Africa that integrate distributed generation to compensate for disruptions in utility-supplied power. The deployments are built on Echelon's proven, open standard, multi-application energy control networking platform powered by its Control Operating System (COS) and incorporate application software and services from its local partners Grene Robotics and Power Meter Technics (PMT). The first-of-its-kind in the two countries, the micro grid deployments involve dynamically managing demand and energy supply mix for a residential community and a retail mall to deliver reliable service cost-effectively. (more)
Brazil May Invest $3 Billion in Energy Efficiency as Loans Rise Source: BEPA Brazilian businesses may invest as much as $3 billion in energy-efficiency measures through 2020 as banks become more comfortable offering loans that will be repaid mainly through cost savings, according to the International Finance Corp. (more)
Atlanta Renovation Achieves Highest LEED Score in Northern Hemisphere Source: ARS Technica A renovated building in Midtown Atlanta has been awarded 95 out of a possible 110 LEED points for its environmental design-the highest score for any new construction in the Northern Hemisphere. Though classified as a "New Construction" in the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design system, 1315 Peachtree Street, Atlanta is actually a 1980s construction that has undergone extensive renovation. But what does LEED certification entail? And is this the greenest building in the Northern Hemisphere? (more)
Exhibitor Highlights from Globalcon / JETRO Source: Company Since the devastating earthquake and tsunami known to the world as the “Great East Japan Earthquake”, Japan has focused more on renewable and sustainable energy technologies. With this in mind, JETRO (Japan External Trade Organization), as Japan’s governmental organization to promote inward investment to Japan, is working towards expressing the opportunities and advantages the country can create for US companies with business interests in Japan. Our mission to provide full service assistance for a company to establish an office in Japan has never been more important than today, as the country is working towards the recovery from the disaster and building eco-friendly towns or cities in Japan. (more)
UP, India's First Solar Power Plant Starts Operating Source: BEPA Amid growing emphasis on adopting alternative and environmental-friendly means to meet energy demands, the first solar power unit of Uttar Pradesh, India, has started functioning on the outskirts of the city. (more)
SCIenergy, Inc. Completes Acquisition of Transcend Equity Maintaining Partnership with Mitsui & Co. Source: Company SCIenergy, Inc., the global leader in providing cloud-based energy management solutions for building owners and operators, announced it has successfully completed the acquisition of Transcend Equity, a leader in delivering energy saving retrofits for commercial buildings. (more)
Constellation Energy Awarded GSA Contract for 90,000 MWh of Electricity for 17 CA Federal Buildings Source: Company Constellation Energy, an Exelon company, has been awarded a new General Services Administration (GSA) electricity supply contract for 17 federal buildings in California, including the Court of Appeals building in San Francisco. (more)
Bureau of Labor Statistics Study Shows 3.1 Million Green Jobs in U.S. Source: NY Times For the first time, the federal government released an estimate of the number of so-called green jobs in the United States economy, saying that 3.1 million people are employed in the production of goods and services that benefit the environment. (more)
U.S. Department of Energy Awards $481G for Solar Panel Installation in Connecticut Source: DOE The U.S. Department of Energy has awarded Connecticut $481,473 to decrease costs associated with the installation and use of rooftop solar panels. (more)
Sustainable Energy for Brazilian 2014 World Cup Stadium Source: BEPA The Soccer Cup that will take place in Brazil in 2014 is a huge event that is mobilizing the Latin American country. It has become standard that big-scale projects such as this need to embed sustainability in the plans in order to be viable. Such is the case with the London Olympics, where sustainability has been a main part of the project from the start. (more)
SAP Sustainability Update: Energy Use Grew with Revenue in 2011 Source: Greenbiz For enterprise software company SAP, 2011 was a banner year. Revenue was up 25 percent. "2011 has been our best year ever in terms of business activity," said Rami Branitzky, the firm's senior vice president of sustainability. (more)
Big Box Electricity: Best Buy Teams up with Constellation Source: Greenbiz Best Buy has launched a pilot program in Chicago that will enable customers to switch from their current electric utility to Constellation Energy right in the store -- and also will encourage them to buy smart thermostats and other energy-efficiency products. (more)
Green Button Initiative to Give 15 Million Households Tools to Shrink Their Energy Bills Source: WhiteHouse.gov Responding to President Obama’s call for an “all-of-the-above” strategy to help consumers reduce their energy costs, the Administration announced today that nine major utilities and electricity suppliers will commit to providing more than 15 million households access to data about their own energy use with a simple click of an online “Green Button.” By providing consumers with secure, easy-to-understand information about how they are using energy in their households, Green Button can help them reduce waste and shrink bills. (more)
Climate Change Poses Growing Flood Risks to US Coastal Cities Source: Greenbiz Since 1880, average sea levels have increased by more than eight inches, most if not all of which can be attributed to the impacts of climate change. According to Climate Central, in a report entitled Surging Seas, unchecked climate change is likely to make things much worse, and soon. (more)
California Streetlight Program Funded By Savings Source: LD+A Report Chevron Energy Solutions and Bridgelux have created an alliance to promote LED streetlight retrofits, enabling cities to reduce utility bills and maintenance costs, often with no upfront investment cost. The LED streetlights require 50 percent less power and far less maintenance than ordinary streetlights, allowing cities to finance the installation with the savings. (more)
Comverge Manages First Ever DR Event in South Africa Source: Distributed Energy Comverge, Inc. (Nasdaq: COMV), the leading provider of Intelligent Energy Management solutions for Residential and Commercial & Industrial (C&I) customers, announced the first ever demand response event in South Africa. As the curtailment service provider for the region, Comverge successfully delivered 4 Megawatts (MWs) of reduced electricity demand from a factory located in the city of Lichtenburg in the North West Province. The Network Operations Center (NOC) at the Comverge facility in Norcross, GA managed the event. (more)
Raytheon Awarded 2012 ENERGY STAR® Sustained Excellence Award by EPA Source: Company For the fifth consecutive year, Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) was recognized with the 2012 ENERGY STAR® Sustained Excellence Award by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for ongoing leadership in energy conservation, reduced greenhouse gas emissions and innovative energy efficiency practices. Raytheon received its award at an EPA ceremony. (more)
Summit Energy Releases Latest DashboardView Source: Environmental Leader Summit Energy, a subsidiary of Schneider Electric, has released the latest version of its online sustainability and energy management platform, DashboardView. (more)
Honeywell Launches Cloud-Based Analytics for Building Management Source: Environmental Leader Honeywell has released Attune Advisory Services, a suite of professional services that combines cloud-based tools and analytics with a global network of operations centers and energy and facility experts, to provide enhancements that the company says can reduce utility bills and operating expenses up to 20 percent. (more)
U.S. Solar Energy Installations Soared in 2011: Report Source: EERE News The U.S. solar energy industry installed a record 1,855 megawatts (MW) of photovoltaic (PV) capacity in 2011, according to the latest U.S. Solar Market Insight report. The amount represents a 109% growth rate over the previous year and is enough to power more than 370,000 homes. The total more than doubled the previous annual record of 887 MW set in 2010. The findings came from GTM Research and the Solar Energy Industries Association, an industry trade group. (more)
EPA Names 2012 Energy Star Awardees, Celebrate 20th Anniversary Source: EPA The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on March 15 recognized the 2012 Energy Star award winners while kicking off Energy Star's 20th anniversary. Energy Star is a joint program of the EPA and DOE that is designed to help consumers save money and protect the environment by using energy-efficient products and practices. During the past 20 years, with help from Energy Star partners, families and businesses have saved about $230 billion on utility bills and prevented more than 1.7 billion metric tons of carbon pollution. (more)
Report: China Making Significant Progress in Building Energy Code Compliance Source: Company China is now the largest market for new construction in the world, adding about 20 billion square feet to its commercial and residential building stock annually in recent years. Given this scale, enforcement of building energy codes across China is challenging and critical for both Chinese and global building energy efficiency and carbon mitigation. Compliance with building energy codes has been reported as low, but a few new studies indicate that China has actually made great strides in improving compliance since 2005. (more)
IECC 2012 Decoded Source: Lighting Controls Association The International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) is a model residential and commercial building energy code produced by the International Code Council. First published in 1998, the IECC was updated in 2000, 2003, 2006, 2009 and, earlier this year, 2012. (more)
Wells Fargo invests record $2.8B in environmental projects Source: Greenbiz Wells Fargo & Company invested $2.8 billion in environmental projects in 2011, the company’s largest yearly amount yet, bringing its total green investments to $11.7 billion. It's a sign that banks are opening up more financing for companies working on commercial energy-efficiency projects, renewable-energy projects and more. (more)
Constellation Energy and Exelon Endorse Michigan Legislation to Expand Competitive Energy Market Source: Company Constellation Energy and its parent company Exelon voiced strong support for legislation (HB 5503) introduced by Rep. Mike Shirkey (R-Clarklake) to expand competitive energy markets in Michigan and immediately address the pent up demand of more than 7,000 customers to choose their electricity supplier. (more)
Lime Energy (LIME) - News - Awarded Energy Efficiency Direct Install Program Contract for PSE&G Source: Company Lime Energy Co. (NASDAQ: LIME) announced the award of a two-year contract by Public Service Electric & Gas for the implementation of their Energy Efficiency Direct Install Program. PSE&G is one of the largest combined electric and gas companies in the United States and is also New Jersey's oldest and largest electric and gas utility. The Program, serving municipalities and not-for-profits, is budgeted for $25 million over the next two years. (more)
PECO Named 2012 ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year by U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Source: WSJ The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recognized PECO as 2012 ENERGY STAR(R) Partner of the Year for outstanding contributions to energy efficiency through PECO Smart Ideas, the company's full suite of energy saving programs. The award was presented during a ceremony held in Washington, D.C. -- marking the 20th anniversary of ENERGY STAR. (more)
Aircuity Sets New Standard in Building Performance Management Source: Washington Street Journal Aircuity, the smart airside efficiency company, released details about the functionality and power of their software services suite, Aircuity Advisor™ Services. Advisor enables significant energy savings and superior IEQ and delivers a return on investment of less than two years. Aircuity solutions are recognized as one of the most impactful energy efficiency measures available and Advisor significantly enhances the solution by ensuring these substantial savings are maintained consistently year after year. Advisor’s M&V and IEQ management capabilities make it the must-have tool for building owners, facilities, sustainability, and health and safety personnel. (more)
Xandex Selects Aide Solar for 60kW Solar Installation Source: Company Xandex Inc. and Aide Solar announced that Xandex has selected Aide Solar 235W poly-silicon panels for the 60kW Phase 1 installation of a planned 100kW rooftop photovoltaic plant at its new facility in Petaluma, California. The selection is an important because it comes after the panels were evaluated at the outdoor Xandex Solar Laboratory. (more)
Rivers Casino is the First LEED® Gold Certified Casino in the World Source: Company Rivers Casino in Des Plaines, the newest casino in the Chicagoland area, has been awarded the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold Certification by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). Rivers Casino is the first casino in the world to achieve the LEED Gold certification. (more)
Perkins+Will's Atlanta Office Earns Highest Score for LEED-Certified New Construction Source: Company Leading design firm Perkins+Will recently announced that its Atlanta office at 1315 Peachtree Street earned LEED Platinum with 95 points awarded, the most of any project in the Northern Hemisphere to date under the 2009 version of LEED for New Construction. (more)
Ecova Named One to Watch in Groom Energy Enterprise Smart Grid Research Source: Company Ecova, a leading total energy and sustainability management company, announced that it has been named as one of 10 “Enterprise Smart Grid Vendors to Watch” in Groom Energy’s “The Enterprise Smart Grid – a Corporate Buyer’s Guide for Energy Management Software” report. The report is the result of 65 interviews with corporate energy, facility and sustainability managers and vendors offering enterprise smart grid related technologies. According to Groom Energy’s research, the new market represents a $5.2 billion industry within the U.S, and is growing at 40 percent per year. Vendors were selected based on their innovation, customer proof points, strong market momentum, aggressive product development and increased emphasis on enterprise-wide and multiple-site implementations. (more)
Air Products and FuelCell Energy Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Market Tri-Generation Stationar Source: Company Air Products (NYSE: APD) and FuelCell Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ: FCEL) a leading manufacturer of ultra-clean, efficient and reliable fuel cell power plants, announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding to work toward the market development of stationary Direct FuelCell® (DFC®) power plants that simultaneously produce hydrogen, ultra-clean electricity and usable high quality heat. Target markets for these tri-generation stationary fuel cell power plants include industrial hydrogen users as well as vehicle fueling applications. (more)
Renewable Energy Investments Result in Nevada Jobs and Expansion of Nevada Businesses Source: Company United States Senator Harry Reid released a new report that puts a bright spotlight on the importance and benefits of federal and state policies to support the development of renewable energy sources. "We are proud to be a leading example in Senator Reid's Nevada Clean Energy Report that demonstrates how public-private partnerships create jobs and economic growth for the local community and state," said Kevin Smith, CEO of SolarReserve. "Clearly, SolarReserve's Crescent Dunes Solar Energy Project that is currently under construction near Tonopah, Nevada, could not have gone forward without supportive public policies and the leadership of Senator Reid and other members of congress and the administration." (more)
SCIenergy, Inc. Completes Acquisition of Transcend Equity Source: Company SCIenergy, Inc., the global leader in providing cloud-based energy management solutions for building owners and operators, today announced it has successfully completed the acquisition of Transcend Equity, a leader in delivering energy saving retrofits for commercial buildings. (more)
Navy to Deploy OpConnect® Electric Vehicle Charging Stations; $60,000 Order for Charging Stations Source: Company OpConnect, LLC, a leader in electric vehicle charging station technology, announced the $60,000 sale of charging stations to the Department of the Navy by Go EV, LLC, its exclusive North American distributor. The OpConnect dual Level I & II units, capable of charging four vehicles at the same time, will be installed at Navy facilities in Washington, DC; Indian Head, MD and San Diego, CA. These charging stations will be powered by OpConnect's EV Charging Network and will be used by service personnel as part of a pilot program for electric vehicle readiness in Navy facilities. (more)
Dow Launches $10M Sustainability Fellowship Source: Huffinton Post A new University of Michigan fellowship program designed to prepare 300 students to take on the challenge of solving global sustainability problems is the latest initiative geared to creating a climate of technological innovation in the state. (more)
New Approach Aims to Slash Cost of Solar Cells Source: NREL Solar-powered electricity prices could soon approach those of power from coal or natural gas thanks to collaborative research with solar start-up Ampulse Corporation at the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). (more)
Secretary Chu Announces Best Buy, Johnson Controls, PG&E, & Veolia to Join Clean Fleets Partnership Source: DOE Energy Secretary Steven Chu announced that four new corporate partners—Best Buy, Johnson Controls, Pacific Gas and Electric, and Veolia—are joining the Energy Department's National Clean Fleets Partnership, a broad public-private partnership that assists the nation's largest fleet operators in reducing the amount of gasoline and diesel they use nationwide. The new partners announced today join with 14 other major national companies in committing to improve the fuel economy of the commercial fleets, integrate alternative technology vehicles like natural gas trucks and electric vehicles into their fleets, and reduce their overall fuel use. Collectively, the National Clean Fleets Partners operate more than a million commercial vehicles nationwide, accounting for more than 12% of all commercial vehicles on American roads. (more)
Retrofits Could Yield $1T in US Energy Savings Source: Greenbiz Savvy investments in energy efficiency retrofits for buildings could yield more than three times their value, mounting to about $1 trillion in energy savings in a decade, says new research from Deutsche Bank and The Rockefeller Foundation. The study released said that yield would be just one of the returns if $279 billion were spent for retrofits of residential, commercial and institutional buildings in the United States. (more)
LG Electronics Named 2012 ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year Source: Company LG Electronics has been named 2012 ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA is honoring LG, a global technology leader in consumer electronics and home appliances, for its outstanding contributions to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by manufacturing energy-efficient products and helping to educate consumers about those products. (more)
Energy Department Announces $5.2 Million to Advance Heating & Cooling Systems Source: EERE News As part of the Obama Administration's blueprint for an American economy built to last, Energy Secretary Steven Chu announced the availability of up to $5.2 million in fiscal year 2012 to develop improved building efficiency technologies, including advanced heating and cooling systems and high efficiency insulation, windows and roofs. This funding will advance the research, development, demonstration, and manufacture of innovative building technologies to speed the commercialization of affordable, high performance products that will save money for American families and businesses. (more)
Volkswagen's Green Commitment: $52 Billion Source: Greenbiz German automaker Volkswagen aims to drop the average emissions from its new vehicles to 120 grams CO2/km by 2015, as part of a "fundamental ecological restructuring" likely to be worth more than €40 billion (US$52 billion by 2016. (more)
New Technology Monitors Energy Use at Bunker Hill Community College Source: BHCC Bunker Hill Community College has installed a state-of-the art "building dashboard" in the lobby of its LEED Gold-certified Health & Wellness Center. Resembling a large flat-screen television, the device monitors the building's energy usage in real time and presents the results in a series of colorful, interactive charts and graphs. BHCC is the only community college in Massachusetts and one of only six nationwide to have adopted this innovative technology pioneered by Lucid Technologies. (more)
Siminovitch Appointed First Rosenfeld Chair in Energy Efficiency Source: Company The staff of CLTC is happy to announce that our director, Michael Siminovitch, has been appointed the first Art Rosenfeld Chair in Energy Efficiency at UC Davis. “The Chair honors not only the very distinguished recipient but the amazing Art Rosenfeld, who is widely recognized as the father of energy efficiency,” explains Professor Nicole Woolsey Biggart, director of the UC Davis Energy Efficiency Center. The five-year appointment will further support Siminovitch's efforts to advance energy-efficient lighting. The Chair also recognizes his work educating and mentoring the next generation of sustainability designers. (more)
Energy Retrofit Reduces Oahu Veterans Center Electricity Consumption by 86 Percent Source: Company Oahu Veterans Center received an energy upgrade from Energy Industries (EI) offsetting its electricity consumption for considerable cost-savings. Consumption has been reduced by 86 percent through a lighting retrofit and installation of a 39.1-kilowatt photovoltaic (solar panel) system. “We are honored to have the opportunity to help the Oahu Veterans Center with both energy reduction and production,” said Duane Ashimine, executive vice president of Energy Industries. “Through our design and installation, we’ve increased the center’s sustainability, and hope the facility will be around for future generations of veterans.” Oahu Veterans Center is one of several non-profit organizations EI is assisting through a custom power purchase agreement (PPA); other non-profits include Easter Seals and Bishop Museum. (more)
Ecova Earns Accreditation from Carbon Disclosure Project Source: Company Ecova — the total energy and sustainability management company — announced it has earned accreditation from the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) as a Carbon Calculation partner. The accreditation reflects Ecova’s success in helping its customers accurately calculate and report carbon emissions with the use of Ecova’s carbon accounting solution, Carbon Manager. (more)
SDG&E's Clean Energy Portfolio Jumps 9 Percent in 2011 Source: Company San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) today reports to the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) that 20.8 percent of the energy delivered to retail customers in 2011 was provided by renewable energy sources, such as wind, geothermal, biomass, hydroelectric and solar facilities. Surpassing the 20 percent mark represents SDG&E's largest single year increase in renewable power in proportion to overall power sales; a considerable 9 percent over the utility's 2010 results. (more)
Jones Lang LaSalle Receives 2012 ENERGY STAR Sustained Excellence Award Source: Company The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded Jones Lang LaSalle (NYSE: JLL) a 2012 ENERGY STAR Sustained Excellence Award in recognition of its continued leadership in protecting our environment through energy efficiency. Jones Lang LaSalle's accomplishments will be recognized at an awards ceremony in Washington, D.C. on March 15, 2012, which marks the 20th anniversary of ENERGY STAR. (more)
GDF SUEZ ENERGY RESOURCES TO SUPPLY RENEWABLE ENERGY CERTIFICATES FOR 2012 GLOBALCON Source: Company For the third consecutive year, GDF SUEZ Energy Resources supplied renewable energy certificates (RECs) to the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) for the 2012 Globalcon Conference & Expo. (more)
Juhl Wind, Inc. Announces Launch of Juhl Renewable Energy Systems, Inc. Source: Company Juhl Wind, Inc. (OTCBB: JUHL), the Leader in Community Wind Power, announced a newly formed subsidiary, Juhl Renewable Energy Systems, Inc. ("JRES") to meet the market needs for smaller scale wind and solar systems business. JRES is focused on the sales and installation of Juhl's on-site renewable energy systems - including Solarbank®, a proven on-site solar system; Powerbank, a simple on-site backup power system; and its newly designed Juhl Windharvester– one of the industry's most advanced medium scale wind turbines at approximately 35 kW. JRES handles projects from start to finish, including design, sales, financing and service. Juhl plans to provide several financing structures including its ongoing system ownership at customer sites while delivering guaranteed operations and savings to end-user customers. (more)
Columbia University's Northwest Corner Building Achieves LEED® Gold Source: Company The US Green Building Council has announced that Columbia University's Northwest Corner Building has achieved LEED® Gold certification. LEED®, or Leadership in Energy and Engineering Design, certification provides third-party verification that a building or community has been designed and built to meet key areas of environmental and human health, including energy efficiency, materials selection and water savings. (more)
How a Billionaire, T. Boone Pickens, Fills His Gas Tank for $1 a Gallon Source: CNN Gasoline at $4 a gallon is no worry for T. Boone Pickens, the billionaire energy investor from Texas. He drives from his home to his office in a car that runs on fuel costing less than $1 a gallon. (more)
Chevron Energy Solutions and Bridgelux Team With California Cities to Unveil Innovative Streetlight Source: Company Chevron Energy Solutions and Bridgelux have created a unique alliance to promote innovative advancements in LED lighting technologies, enabling cities to significantly reduce utility bills and maintenance costs. (more)
Demand Response Auctions Help GSA Generate More Competition and Keep More Revenues From Energy Curta Source: Company World Energy Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ: XWES), a leading energy management services firm, announced it successfully teamed with the GSA Energy Division to auction approximately 24 MW of demand response (~8 MW annually over a three year term) with support from Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) (NYSE: SAI). Two sets of auctions were run, one for GSA Region 5 facilities located in the Commonwealth Edison service territory of PJM and one for U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities located in the Consolidated Edison service territory of the NYISO. The new contracts awarded as a result of these auctions should generate revenues of at least $1.5 million for the GSA and VA, which can be re-invested into further energy efficiency and facility improvement projects. (more)
Dallas Condo Invests in Sustainability with RobustEnergy’s Microturbine CHP Technology Source: Business Wire The Gold Crest Condominium on Turtle Creek has selected the RobustEnergy Microturbine Combined Heat and Power (MCHP) solution for energy savings, energy efficiency, sustainability and security. The system will save the condo owners over $1 million during the life-cycle of the microturbine driven combined heat and power system. HOA President, Joseph Verdesca, reports, “The RobustEnergy MCHP solution is a durable technology with the highest return on investment for efficiency, dependability and savings (more)
USCHPA Applauds Treatment of CHP in Bingaman CES Legislation Source: Company USCHPA Executive Director Jessica Bridges today commended Senate Energy & Natural Resources Committee Chairman Jeff Bingaman (D-NM) for introducing legislation to establish a national Clean Energy Standard (CES) that aptly recognizes the energy and environmental benefits of combined heat and power (CHP) and effectively incentivizes greater deployment of CHP in the American marketplace. (more)
Army Unveils First Military Fuel Cell Fleet Source: EERE News The U.S. Army unveiled a fleet of 16 hydrogen fuel cell vehicles that the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines in Hawaii are testing in an effort to research renewable energy sources and reduce dependence on oil. The zero-emission vehicles were funded by the Army Tank Automotive Research Development Engineering Center, Office of Naval Research, and Air Force Research Laboratories. The fuel cell vehicles, powered by renewable hydrogen, travel up to 200 miles on a single charge and refuel in five minutes. (more)
DOE Launches New Research Program to Advance Solar Technologies Source: DOE DOE announced that $3 million is available this year to support research to significantly lower the cost of solar energy. The Bridging Research Interactions through Collaborative Development Grants in Energy (BRIDGE) funding will enable collaborative research teams from industry, universities, and national laboratories to work together in DOE's research centers. The research teams will support the goal of DOE's SunShot Initiative to make solar energy cost competitive with other forms of energy by the end of the decade. (more)
KYOCERA Installs 500kW Solar Power Generating System on WACOAL’s Distribution Center Source: Company Kyocera Corporation has supplied and installed a roughly 500-kilowatt (kW) solar power generating system on the roof of Wacoal Distribution Corp.’s (a wholly owned subsidiary of Wacoal Holdings Corp.) western Japan distribution center — making it the largest solar power installation in Shiga Prefecture, Japan. A completion ceremony was held on February 20. (more)
AEE Lighting Design Certification: CLEP Source: Lighting.com The Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) boasts 15,000 professionals in 84 countries and is widely recognized for its 20 energy certification programs, including one for commercial lighting design. (more)
Ford Recognized With Climate Leadership Award Source: Company Ford has been recognized with a Goal-Setting Certificate at the inaugural United States Environmental Protection Agency Climate Leadership Awards Ceremony and Conference for its global CO2 strategy, which includes a publicly stated goal of 30 percent per vehicle reduction in manufacturing greenhouse gas emissions from 2010 to 2025. This strategy builds on CO2 reductions of approximately 49 percent, or 4.8 million metric tons, from 2000 to 2010. During this same period, Ford reduced facilities-related CO2 emissions per vehicle by 30 percent. Ford also became Climate Registered with the publication of its complete carbon inventory for 2010 by The Climate Registry, a voluntary North American carbon disclosure program (more)
CT TRANSIT sets Another Green Example: Installs PureCell® System from UTC Power & Expands Commitment Source: Company UTC Power, a United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX) company, announced that CT TRANSIT, which currently operates five buses powered by UTC Power's transportation fuel cells, will expand their commitment to reducing their environmental impact through the purchase of a PureCell® stationary fuel cell system for their headquarters on Leibert Road in Hartford, Conn. The fuel cell will provide 400 kilowatts (kW) of clean, reliable power to the 330,000 square-foot facility. Thermal energy from the fuel cell will be used to pre-heat two boilers that support the building's primary heating system. (more)
Orion Lighting to Cut Electricity 70% at Two Kenco Warehouses Source: Company Logistics and warehousing service company Kenco has installed Orion Energy Systems high-intensity fluorescent (HIF) technology at two of its Chattanooga, Tenn., logistics facilities – a move expected to cut light-related electricity consumption by 70 percent, the company said. (more)
Lego Invest $500 Million on Green Power Wind Farm Source: Company The family firm that controls Denmark's Lego is buying almost a third of a German offshore wind power project in an unusual foray outside the toy business to showcase its green credentials to customers. (more)
Green Teams Help Postal Service Save Millions Source: Company The U.S. Postal Service saved more than $34 million and generated $24 million in 2011 by reducing energy, water, consumables, petroleum fuel use and solid waste to landfills, conservation efforts encouraged by the Go Green Forever stamps. The Postal Service recycled 215,000 tons of material, which saved $14 million in landfill fees and yielded $24 million in new revenue. Employee lean green teams were key to helping the Postal Service achieve the savings and revenue, part of which included more than a $20 million decrease in supplies spending from the previous year. (more)
Solar Energy Applications Now Open for Consumers Energy Business Customers Source: Company Beginning business electric customers served by Consumers Energy can submit applications to participate in the utility's next phase of its solar energy program. The Experimental Advance Renewable Program (EARP) allows electric customers to sell the output of customer-owned solar generating systems to Consumers Energy for a fixed price over a contract length of 15 years. Applications for this next phase of the EARP must be submitted by March 29, 2012. (more)
Siemens and Boeing Strategic Alliance Secures DOD Contract Source: Company The strategic alliance between Siemens and Boeing announced that the alliance and a team of partners has been awarded a funded project by the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) Environmental Security Technology Certification Program (ESTCP). Using Siemens and Boeing's leading cyber-secure energy savings technology, the DOD will realize up to 40 percent savings in energy costs at this one installation. This is the alliance's first awarded contract. (more)
Expanding Its Texas Footprint, GE Unit Joins JP Morgan to Jointly Invest $225M in NextEra Energy Source: Company Expanding its renewable energy portfolio in Texas, GE unit (NYSE: GE - News) GE Energy Financial Services has joined JP Morgan to jointly invest $225 million in a partnership that owns the 662.5-megawatt Capricorn Ridge wind farm in West Texas. A subsidiary of NextEra Energy Resources, LLC remains the majority owner and operator of the project. Additional financial details of the transaction were not disclosed. NextEra Energy Resources is a subsidiary of NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE: NEE - News). (more)
Capstone Receives Order for First C1000 from Oil & Gas Producer Operating in Southern California Source: Company Capstone Turbine Corporation (www.capstoneturbine.com) (Nasdaq:CPST - News), the world's leading clean technology manufacturer of microturbine energy systems, today announced it received an order for the first C1000 Power Package from an oil & gas producer in Southern California. (more)
Continental Controls to Attend Globalcon Conference and Expo in NJ Source: Company Founded in 1995, Colorado-based Continental Control Systems specializes in electric power metering equipment for the measurement of energy and power production and consumption. The company's meters are designed to provide kW and kWh information in a variety of communication protocols including BACnet®, Modbus®, LonWorks®, and pulse outputs. Applications for the WattNode® meter include building automation, LEED certification, tenant submetering, measurement and verification, evaluation/diagnostics, and energy management. All Continental Control Systems products are listed or recognized by Underwriters Laboratories Inc. with a Dual Safety Certification for use in both the United States and Canada (cUL). (more)
Hess Introduces Comprehensive Energy Solutions Unit Source: Company Hess Corporation announced the launch of Hess Energy Solutions, offering comprehensive energy services for commercial, industrial and institutional customers. Building on its expertise in energy markets, Hess Energy Solutions delivers integrated solutions that help organizations save money, reduce energy consumption and make well-informed energy decisions, including fuel conversions, proprietary demand response programs, energy asset optimization, energy efficiency and sustainability, and guaranteed cost energy management. (more)
U.S. Grid Energy Storage Market is Strong and Poised for Exponential Growth Source: Distributed Energy The U.S. energy storage market is robust and offers tremendous potential for growth over the next 5 years according to the findings of a just released study sponsored by the Copper Development Association (CDA) and conducted by KEMA, Inc. The study, entitled Market Evaluation for Energy Storage in the United States determines the current market for grid energy storage in the U.S. and the associated copper demand in storage applications over the next five years. Thermal energy storage, pumped hydro power, compressed air energy storage (CAES), and distributed applications currently constitute the majority of the energy storage market and are used to support the integration of renewables such as wind power and solar photovoltaics. (more)
Study Finds Solar Industry Could Add 18,000 Jobs by 2015 Source: Centers of Excellence A study released by the Centers of Excellence finds that job opportunities in the solar industry are expected to increase by up to 40 percent in the next three years. (more)
NREL Study Shatters Myth of China's Inherent Advantage in Solar Source: NREL The Coalition for American Solar Manufacturing (CASM), a group of seven U.S. solar manufacturers representing more than 150 employers of more than 14,650 workers, is heralding a revised research presentation from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, posted on the NREL website today. The presentation concludes Chinese production of crystalline silicon solar technology for the U.S. market costs more than U.S. production for the domestic market, when the costs of shipping are included. (more)
Mini Wind Turbines to Help Power SC Johnson's Ark. Office Source: Company SC Johnson announced plans for a wind energy program at its Lowell, Ark. sales office. Already known for its use of renewable energy at its manufacturing facilities around the world, the 126-year old company is adding three mini wind turbines at its largest U.S. sales office outside of its Racine, Wis. global headquarters. (more)
Valuing the Potential of an Optimized Electric Grid Source: Company The GridWise® Alliance, the leading coalition advocating for the optimization of the nation's electric system, today released a report detailing the current state of the nation's power grid and quantifying the benefits of a modernized electric system. The report is designed to provide federal and state regulators with concrete examples of demonstrated benefits of grid modernization projects as they contemplate their own optimization initiatives. (more)
US Foods Turns to Solar Power for Site Serving Metro New York Source: Greenbiz Food distributor US Foods is installing a rooftop solar power system that will enable the company facility that serves metro New York to source almost 85 percent of its power to renewable energy. (more)
Hudson Energy Launches New Sales Partner Portal With Hudson Connex! Source: Company Hudson Energy, one of the largest and fastest growing business to business suppliers of electric power and natural gas in North America, continues to 'Define the Market' with the launch of Hudson Connex, a revolutionary gateway for Commercial Sales Partners to enter a whole new realm of business ease and convenience. (more)
How Energy Star is Working on the Green Data Center of the Future Source: Greenbiz The Energy Star program, already a host of the nation's second-most-recognized green label, the group has been developing its standards for data center infrastructure for years. Back in 2009, Energy Star launched a certification for servers, which was received less than warmly on the whole in large part because of the narrow scope of servers covered under the specification. (more)
UC Davis Extension Announces Spring Courses in Energy Resource Source: UC Davis Learn best practices and discover techniques and resources to improve business competitiveness and achieve energy efficiency. Explore practical, sustainable applications for contemporary energy resource management with UC Davis Extension's online courses. Discounts are available. (more)
SRS Sponsors New Whitepaper: Energy Efficiency Retrofit Financing Options Source: Company Sustainable Real Estate Solutions, Inc. (SRS), the industry leader in on-demand building energy assessment and proprietary benchmarking software, announced it is sponsoring a new whitepaper: Energy Efficiency Retrofit Financing Options for the Commercial Real Estate Industry. Published by Building Energy Performance Assessment News (BEPAnews), this new report is the seventh in its Critical Issues Series and is available at no cost. (more)
How Hotels Can Tackle Their 3 Main Barriers to Deeper Energy Savings Source: Greenbiz Misperceptions about the most effective investments for efficiency and the potential impacts on guests have prevented hotels from reaping all the energy savings possible from today's technology. (more)
Thermal Storage Gets More Solar on the Grid Source: NREL Peak demand for electricity in the United States typically hits between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m., which doesn't quite line up with the sun's schedule. It's fortunate that the sun is high in the sky during many of the hours when the air conditioning is in demand. But in summer, people tend to need air conditioning during the dinner hour and beyond, when kitchen appliances are whirring, lights are on, and TVs are blaring. (more)
Johnson Controls wins $34 Million contract for Energy Efficiency Projects at U.S. Army’s Fort Buchan Source: BEPA Johnson Controls and the U.S. Army announced a federal contract for energy efficiency improvements at Fort Buchanan and U.S. Army Reserve Centers in Puerto Rico. The project will improve all aspects of energy use at the post, including solar power generation, solar thermal applications, wind power generation, new indoor and exterior LED lighting, a building automation and control system to manage energy at 87 buildings and other energy efficiency improvements. Under this financial partnership, the savings generated from the improvements will fund the cost of the project. (more)
Honda Civic, Toyota Prius Earn Least-Toxic Car Scores Source: Greenbiz The Ecology Center tested over 200 popular 2011 and 2012 model year vehicles. The Ecology Center looked for chemicals that off-gas from steering wheels, dashboards, seats and other interior components that drivers and passengers are commonly around and touch. In particular, it tested for bromine (found in brominated flame retardants), chlorine (evidence of PVC and plasticizers), lead and heavy metal, which have all been connected to various health issues like allergies, birth defects, learning disabilities and cancer. (more)
Georgia Museum of Art receives LEED certification Source: BEPA The Georgia Museum of Art, Athens, GA, is the most recent building on campus to become LEED certified. The museum, which opened its expanded and remodeled building, received LEED Gold certification last week - the second highest rating a building can receive. (more)
U.S. Has Imported 239 Million Barrels Since State of the Union Source: PickensPlan.com In his State of the Union Address on January 24, President Barack Obama announced an energy blueprint for the U.S. calling for an “all-of-the-above strategy that develops every available source of American energy.” He called on Congress to begin reducing dependence on foreign oil by encouraging use of American natural gas to fuel vehicles, bolster domestic manufacturing of batteries that power electric cars, and by passing a “clean energy standard” for the power generation sector. Since the President made this announcement, the United States has imported 239 million barrels, or 59 percent of its oil supply, at a cost of $26.5 billion. (more)
Saint-Gobain Announces Support of PA's Energy Coordinating Agency; Presents Grant to Fund Green Jobs Source: Company Saint-Gobain, the world's largest building materials company, announces its continued financial support of the Energy Coordinating Agency (ECA), Philadelphia's largest provider of key energy conservation services including weatherization, energy workshops, heater repair and replacement for low income residents, and green jobs training. At 10 a.m. this morning, company representatives will present a $10,000 grant on behalf of the Saint-Gobain Corporation Foundation at a Philadelphia City Council meeting recognizing ECA's Knight Green Jobs Training Center as a Center of Excellence. (more)
Capstone Expands Presence in Asian-Pacific Market With First Microturbine Sale in the Philippines Source: Company Capstone Turbine Corporation (www.capstoneturbine.com) (Nasdaq:CPST - News), the world's leading clean technology manufacturer of microturbine energy systems, expanded its reach into the Asian-Pacific market with the sale of its first microturbine in the Philippines. The C800 will operate on biogas at a large farm in Banga, South Cotabato, Philippines, to generate low-emission onsite energy. (more)
Borrego Solar Secures $47 Million From U.S. Bank and East West Bank For Solar Energy Projects Source: Business Wire Borrego Solar Systems, Inc., a leading designer, installer and financier of grid-tied solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, today announced that it had closed a new $47 million fund with partners U.S. Bank and East West Bank to finance solar energy projects for corporate, education and municipal customers. With this fund, U.S. Bank and East West Bank have continued their successful partnership with Borrego Solar, bringing cost effective Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) to credit worthy government and private sector clients. (more)
Hershey Achieves Zero Waste at 4 Facilities Source: Greenbiz General Motors has nearly 80 landfill-free manufacturing facilities, Kraft has 36, and now the Hershey Company is building a portfolio of zero-waste-to-landfill sites. (more)
Energy Department Announces Over $12 Million to Spur Solar Energy Innovation Source: DOE As part of the Obama Administration’s blueprint for an American economy built to last, today U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu announced over $12 million to speed solar energy innovation from the lab to the marketplace through the Energy Department’s SunShot Incubator program. The funding will accelerate American innovation in solar energy and manufacturing by supporting advancements in hardware, reductions in soft costs, and the development of pilot manufacturing and production projects. (more)
Festo Optimizes Compressed Air Consumption at Volkswagen Source: Sachin Kambli, Product Manager, Festo Corporation Many passenger cars on roads in Germany contain efficiency concepts that make a considerable contribution to lowering emissions. Automotive manufacturers such as VW have gone even further than this, by applying efficiency strategies in their own value added chain. Because the benefits of pneumatics in automotive industry production processes have seen pneumatic actuation win over other drive technologies, efficient use of compressed air plays a key role in increasing energy efficiency. (more)
IKEA Powers Up Stronger Solar Commitment, New EV Charging Stations Source: Greenbiz Forging ahead with its green power agenda, IKEA is expanding its solar commitments in the U.S. yet again and installing more charging stations for electric cars. (more)
Top R&D Achievements in Energy-Saving Lighting Honored at DOE Workshop Source: DOE The Energy Department recognized six research and development project teams at "Transformations in Lighting," its ninth annual Solid-State Lighting R&D Workshop, held this year in Atlanta. The three-day event brought together nearly 300 researchers, manufacturers, and other industry insiders and observers interested in keeping up to date on the latest solid-state lighting technology developments. (more)
Jersey Gardens Deploys 4.8 Megawatt Rooftop Solar Power System Source: BEPA Glimcher Realty Trust announced the completion of a 4.8-megawatt rooftop solar system at Jersey Gardens in Elizabeth, N.J. The Jersey Gardens solar system was designed and installed, and will be maintained, by SunPower Corp. The system uses the SunPower T5 Solar Roof Tile, the solar industry’s first non-penetrating rooftop product that combines a high-efficiency solar panel, frame and mounting system into a single, pre-engineered unit. Jersey Gardens is the biggest outlet mall in New Jersey. The solar power system at Jersey Gardens was made possible through a partnership with Gerding Edlen Development and Gerding Edlen Sustainable Solutions, a subsidiary of Gerding Edlen and expert in sustainable development, renewable energy and financing. (more)
Educating Organizations on How Energy Management Software Can Reduce Energy Consumption & Costs Source: Company eSight Energy is traveling across North America hosting regional energy management “Road Shows” to educate building facility managers on the benefits of implementing energy management software programs to improve building energy efficiency. (more)
Organic Valley Turns to Solar Windows, Green Power, Energy Savings Source: Greenbiz Organic Valley, the co-op that brought sustainable farming to the dairy industry, has adopted the latest twist in solar technology: windows with embedded with solar cells that generate electricity and save energy by boosting the benefits of daylighting. (more)
Miniature Bayonet Base, Sunlight-Visible 6/7 LED Cluster Bulbs Offer Faster Turn-On 
Source: CompanyLEDtronics®, Inc., the industry’s most innovative LED lamp manufacturer since 1983, announces a family of sunlight-visible, bayonet-base 6/7 LED cluster lamps as replacement for incandescent T3¼ miniature bulbs whose critical status indication is the determining factor and relamping costs are a major consideration. (more)
DOE Report Shows Shift to Energy-Saving Lighting Products Source: EERE News DOE released a report showing that the adoption of energy-efficient lighting products in the United States has increased over the last decade. The 2010 U.S. Lighting Market Characterization report examines the current conditions and broad trends in the U.S. lighting market, broken down by technology and sector. The study shows that in 2010, lighting used approximately 700 terawatt-hours (TWh), or nearly 19% of the electricity produced in the United States. Of the total energy used for lighting, the commercial sector consumed nearly half, or 349 TWh, primarily with fluorescent lighting products. While nearly 6 billion light bulbs are installed in the residential sector compared to approximately 2 billion lamps in the commercial buildings sector, the mostly incandescent residential lamps were not used nearly as much per day, on average, as lights in the commercial sector were used. Also, the average system efficacy (a measure of the amount of light provided per watt of power consumed) of installed lighting increased from 45 lumens per watt in 2001 to 58 lumens per watt in 2010, due mainly to a move from incandescent to compact fluorescent lamps in the residential sector, and from T12 to more-efficient T8 and T5 fluorescent lamps in the commercial and industrial sectors. (more)
DOE, Volvo Partner to Build Trucks that are more Efficient Source: DOE DOE highlighted its partnership with the Volvo Group to commercialize and deploy cutting-edge trucking technologies that will help boost the competitiveness of the U.S. auto and manufacturing industries. Through DOE's SuperTruck program, the Volvo Group was awarded $19 million to improve the efficiency of heavy-duty vehicles like the Mack and Volvo Trucks. The company is matching the Super Truck program award dollar for dollar. The Volvo Group participating in one of the four SuperTruck development projects that focus on increasing the fuel efficiency of Class 8 trucks, known as 18-wheelers, by 50%. To achieve this goal, companies are developing and improving vehicle technologies in engine efficiency, aerodynamics, waste heat recovery, and hybridization, for example. DOE expects fuel economy increases from 6.5 miles per gallon (mpg) to 9.75 mpg. (more)
Global Revenues for Commercial Building Automation Systems Will Reach $146 Billion by 2021 Source: Pike Research Because commercial buildings consume roughly 23% of all electricity globally, the automation systems that ensure efficient performance are a critical part of energy management. Until the mid-1990s, modern building automation consisted of little more than individual systems with simple control panels for switches, timers, and alarms. Today, the market for commercial building automation systems is in the midst of revolutionary change in terms of technology and utility. In the last several years, the focus has shifted from an individual system view to a more holistic view so that the “building system” can be defined to include virtually any device or data source within the building. The amount of data created by automation systems can be overwhelming, but real competitive and economic value exists in using the data to monitor performance and uncover trends. According to a new report from Pike Research, the market for commercial building automation systems will double over the next decade, increasing from $72.5 billion in 2011 to $146.4 billion by 2021. (more)
CA Green Jobs Handled Recession Better than Conventional Jobs Source: Greenbiz.com During one year in the recent recession, green segments of California retained a higher percentage of jobs than the state's total economy (more)
Autodesk Cuts Data Center Energy Use 60%, Saves $7M Source: Greenbiz An aggressive effort to eliminate data center waste is now saving Autodesk about $7 million a year, according to the design software company. (more)
Mitsubishi Electric Car Tops Out Greenest Vehicle List Source: ACEEE With the auto industry back on its feet and fuel economy standards shifting into high gear, automakers provided American consumers with a huge array of vehicles and technologies to choose from in 2012. Today at greenercars.org, the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) released its 14th annual comprehensive environmental rankings showing how these offerings stack up. (more)
NYC Adopts Green Building Codes, Aims to Save $400M Source: Globest.com New city building code that aims to lower carbon emissions, energy consumption and waste is slowly but surely paying off. A new report from the Urban Green Council shows that New York City has been making progress on building construction and renovation standards over the last two years that will save $400 million in energy costs over time. (more)
Certified Energy Manager (CEM) Training Program Coming to Hawaii Source: Hawaii Energy Hawaii Energy, the conservation and energy efficiency program for Hawaii, Honolulu and Maui counties, has partnered with the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) to present a five day Comprehensive Training Program for Energy Managers and Certified Energy Manager (CEM) exam from February 27 to March 2, 2012. (more)
Schick Unveils a Disposable Razor Made with Recycled Plastic Source: Greenbiz Plastic hangers, buckets and trays are being recycled to make the handles for a greener version of the Schick Xtreme3 disposable razor, which made its debut. (more)
Electric Car Tops Greenest Vehicle List for First Time in 12 Years Source: ACEEE With the auto industry back on its feet and fuel economy standards shifting into high gear, automakers provided American consumers with a huge array of vehicles and technologies to choose from in 2012. Today at greenercars.org, the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) released its 14th annual comprehensive environmental rankings showing how these offerings stack up. (more)
NJ Resources Clean Energy Ventures Installs 14-MW Solar Source: Company NJR Clean Energy Ventures (NJRCEV), a subsidiary of New Jersey Resources (NYSE: NJR), announced the completion of the 14.1 megawatt solar system built on McGraw-Hill’s East Windsor, New Jersey campus. The $59.5 million system is NJRCEV’s largest single investment to date and will generate enough electricity to significantly offset the need for other energy sources to run McGraw-Hill’s offices in East Windsor. The solar array is expected to produce 18.4 million kilowatt hours annually, eliminating an estimated 12,689 metric tons of carbon equivalent emissions from the atmosphere annually or the equivalent of removing the carbon dioxide emissions produced by approximately 2,500 cars. (more)
Super Bowl XLVI Goes Green Source: Company The National Football League has been "greening" the management of Super Bowl for 18 years. This year, together with the Indianapolis Super Bowl XLVI Host Committee, the NFL has extended the use of 'green' power to all six major Super Bowl facilities. Everything from the computers in the Motorola Super Bowl XLVI Media Center to the lights that shine down on the teams as they compete during Super Bowl will be powered by green energy. (more)
Honeywell and Hawaiian Electric to Use Demand Respose to Integrate Renewables and Reduce Fossil Fuel Source: Company Honeywell (NYSE: HON) announced a pilot program with Hawaiian Electric Co. in Honolulu to demonstrate how demand response technology can help integrate more intermittent renewable energy to the electric grid. During the two-year pilot, the utility will connect with commercial and industrial customers to temporarily reduce the need for electricity — critical to maintaining grid reliability as Hawaii reduces fossil fuel dependence. (more)
GE Solar Technology to Bring Power of the Sun to Invenergy’s Grand Ridge Solar Project Source: Company GE (NYSE: GE) today announced an agreement to supply 23 megawatts (MW) of advanced solar equipment to Invenergy. Invenergy will install the solar equipment at its Grand Ridge Solar project (“Grand Ridge Solar”), now under construction in Illinois. When completed in mid-2012, Grand Ridge Solar will be the largest solar farm in the Midwest (more)
Siemens, JCI Land $60M in Army Contracts for Green Power, Efficiency Source: Greenbiz Siemens and Johnson Controls Inc. have won energy performance contracts from the U.S. Army totaling more than $60 million for solar, wind and retrofit projects to improve efficiency. (more)
Army Looks to Cloud Computing to Trim IT Bootprint Source: Greenbiz We've all seen the recent headlines publicizing the Army's push to significantly scale back its operations. That push reaches far beyond its ground forces to include a fleet of data centers that must shrink from about 200 to 20. The military arm's top IT brass wants the Army to meet this consolidation target ahead of its original deadline of fiscal year 2014. (more)
Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) to Make a Comeback A new energy-smart finance program for homeowners - called Property Assessed Clean Energy or PACE - has a chance for revival. Over the next 60 days, a broad bipartisan coalition of business leaders, environmentalists, property owners and federal, state, and local policymakers will finally have a chance to make their voices heard and explain to federal regulators why PACE makes economic and environmental sense. (more)
Energy Efficiency Is the Right Track for Clean Air Source: ACEEE A new report by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) reveals how energy efficiency can be used by states, policymakers, and utilities developing compliance strategies to meet the goals of federal air regulations. As mandated under the Clean Air Act, a suite of upcoming air regulations will impose limits on the emissions of multiple air pollutants. The report, entitled Energy Efficiency: The Slip Switch to a New Track Toward Compliance with Federal Air Regulations (http://aceee.org/research-report/e122), maps opportunities in these new regulations where energy efficiency can be used as a compliance tool. (more)
UNIMAC New Solar System Expected to Produce over 1,000,000 kWhs of Clean Power Source: Company UNIMAC Graphics, an integrated communications solutions provider, announced that it has installed the largest solar energy system in Carlstadt, NJ producing over 1,000,000 kWhs of clean solar energy and furthering its commitment to environmental leadership in New Jersey. The system was designed and installed by Mercury Solar Systems Mays Landing, NJ office and is expected to meet 30 percent of UNIMAC's annual electricity needs. (more)
BMW and Tendril Partner to Demonstrate Electric Vehicle and Smart Home Integration Source: Company Tendril and the BMW Group Technology Office USA have announced a partnership to build out a demonstration smart energy home in Mountain View, Calif. to prepare for the rollout and integration of the new BMW ActiveE electric vehicle (EV). (more)
Energy Department, Volvo Partnership Builds More Efficient Trucks and Manufacturing Plants Source: DOE Acting Under Secretary of Energy Arun Majumdar joined with North Carolina Congressman Howard Coble (NC-6) to tour the Volvo Group's truck headquarters in Greensboro, North Carolina, and highlight the blueprint for an America built to last laid out by President Obama in his State of the Union address earlier this week. The Department of Energy is partnering with companies like the Volvo Group to help harness American ingenuity to commercialize and deploy cutting-edge trucking technologies that will help boost the competitiveness of the U.S. auto and manufacturing industry, reduce our dependence on foreign oil, and create jobs for American workers. (more)
California Adopts Landmark Clean Car Standards Source: Greenbiz The California Air Resources Board (ARB) voted unanimously (9-0) to move forward with its landmark clean car standards. When the rule is fully implemented by 2025, new cars will emit 75 percent less smog pollution, 50 percent less carbon pollution, and will sip only half the amount of gasoline versus today's new cars. The vote will result in a dramatic improvement in consumer's choices of cleaner vehicles, including ones that can run completely oil-free. (more)
GM to Launch Industry's First Eco-Label for Cars Source: Greenbiz In an industry first, General Motors' Chevy brand has created a green label for its cars and will roll out the sticker bearing environmental data next month starting with the 2012 Chevy Sonic. (more)
Smart grid implementation up 25 percent in past year, industry survey finds Source: Metering.com There has been a 25 percent increase over last year in the number of utilities companies that have implemented smart grid technology, according to the Microsoft/OSIsoft Worldwide Utility Industry Survey for 2012. (more)
ONSET Announces Occupancy & Light Data Logger Source: Company Onset (http://www.onsetcomp.com), one of the world’s leading supplier of data loggers, announced the HOBO UX90 Occupancy & Light Logger, a matchbox-sized, LCD-display data logger that tracks building occupancy and light usage to pinpoint areas in a building that could benefit from occupancy sensors and other energy savings initiatives. (more)
Obama Administration Highlights Tools to Manage Electricity Use Source: DOE The Obama Administration announced the launch of new online tools that will allow consumers to download household energy use data. These tools, packaged as a website feature called "Green Button," are designed to help households save energy and money. (more)
12 Acquisitions that Transformed the Energy Management Software Market in 2011 Source: Greenbiz.com The market for energy management software (EMS) and services to help companies reduce energy use and carbon emissions continues to mature. Vendors are broadening their product lines by acquiring smaller, innovative firms. Twelve companies were acquired by larger firms last year, and more acquisitions are expected in 2012. Corporate managers who plan to purchase an EMS in 2012 need to be mindful of this trend as they evaluate vendors. (more)
ResourceKraft Signs Landmark Energy Management Deal With Bank of Ireland Source: Company ResourceKraft, the energy and carbon management solutions specialist has announced a deal with Bank of Ireland which will see the bank save 8 – 10% of its energy costs per annum through effective branch energy and water management. This landmark deal encompasses the complete Bank of Ireland branch network. Based on the initial success in the branch network, ResourceKraft have since been commissioned to extend the Energy and Carbon Management System (ECMS) in 50 areas across Bank of Ireland’s administration sites in Ireland and the UK. (more)
Energy Efficiency Paves Way to 'Economy that's Built to Last' Source: Company "The truest comment by the President? One supported by study after study: 'The easiest way to save money is to waste less energy.' "The president's vision for 'an economy built to last' makes energy efficiency a cornerstone. He asked Congress to send him a bill that incorporates energy efficiency and creates jobs. Congress already has one in the pipeline. (more)
Partner Highlight: Sears Holdings Corporation Source: EPA Sears Holdings Corporation recently launched their redesigned sustainability websites — www.sears.com/green and www.kmart.com/green— to highlight their environmental efforts and provide "green" advice to shoppers. An ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year award winner in product retailing (2003, 2010, 2011) and winner of numerous excellence awards for product labeling, Sears Holdings also is an active commercial buildings partner, with more than 100 certified Kmart buildings, and more than 170 certified Sears stores. (more)
OnStar Leverages Google Technology to Connect Customers to the Chevrolet Volt Source: Company OnStar is leveraging the power of Google technology to develop a number of new mobile app features that strengthen Chevrolet's commitment to providing Volt customers with the most connected vehicle experience possible. The public will get a peek at what OnStar is working on at the Google I/O conference where OnStar will debut and demonstrate new functionalities they're developing for the Chevrolet Volt mobile application leveraging the Android™ platform. (more)
Sustainability Efforts Earn Accolades for NREL Source: NREL The U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) is known nationally for its leading edge work in renewable energy and energy efficiency research and development. But, NREL also has been a quiet leader in sustainability efforts, (more)
EIA 2012 Outlook Presents Updated Projections for U.S. Energy Markets; Reduction on Imported Energy Source: EIA Reference case released by the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) presents updated projections for U.S. energy markets through 2035. The Reference case projections include only the effects of policies that have been implemented in law or final regulations. (more)
Best Buy Deploys Blue Shirts to Plug in Energy Efficiency Source: Greenbiz In a keynote interview at the State of Green Business Forum in Minneapolis, McPhail, senior vice president of Best Buy's New Business Customer Solutions Group, explained how the company is betting big on green products that help its customers save money. Best Buy also believes that it is uniquely positioned to deliver a sort of end-to-end experience that begins with education in its stores and finishes with implementation in consumers' homes, courtesy of the Geek Squad. (more)
Calif. Utilities Embrace Green Button Project to Unleash Energy Data Source: Greenbiz California's largest utilities have launched a "Green Button" feature to let consumers download their own detailed energy usage information. The project, championed by U.S. CTO Aneesh Chopra, standardizes the deliver of household energy data and is seen as a catalyst to create an ecosystem for app developers to produce new services and products. (more)
Strategic Alliance Between Calico Energy and Aclara Source: Metering.com Calico Energy Services and Aclara have announced a strategic partnership to provide an integrated set of advanced load control, analytics, and demand response solutions to utilities. (more)
Badger Meter Signs Agreement to Acquire Racine Federated, Inc. Source: Company Badger Meter, Inc. (NYSE: BMI - News) announced it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Racine Federated, Inc. of Racine, Wis., and its subsidiary located in Thetford, England, for approximately $57 million in cash. Racine Federated manufactures and markets flow meters for the water industry, as well as various industrial metering and specialty products. Combined sales for Racine Federated are estimated to be approximately $43 million in 2011. (more)
Green Button initiative launched in U.S. Source: Metering.com The Green Button and other initiatives to enable consumers to gain easy access to their energy usage data have been launched by U.S. Chief Technology Officer Aneesh Chopra and California utilities in Silicon Valley. (more)
Duke Energy, Integrys Energy Services & Smart Energy Capital Complete Solar Projects for NJ Schools Source: Company Duke Energy Renewables, Integrys Energy Services and Smart Energy Capital today announced the completion of two ground-mounted photovoltaic (PV) systems for the Central Regional School District in Bayville, N.J. (more)
Noveda Technologies Recognized by the Cleantech Group Source: Company Noveda Technologies ("Noveda"), the leader in web-based, real-time energy and water monitoring, announced today that it has been selected by the Cleantech Group as the first "Company of the Week." Noveda was selected from more than 15,000 global cleantech companies and investors that the Cleantech Group tracks on a daily basis. (more)
DOE Announces New Online Tools to Help Deploy Distributed Wind Energy Systems Source: DOE The Department of Energy (DOE) announced two new online tools to assist state and local policymakers, consumers, and stakeholders in evaluating siting and policy issues to help accelerate the use of distributed wind energy systems – such as wind turbines installed at a homes and businesses. DOE's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy funded development of the "Distributed Wind Site Analysis Tool" and "Distributed Wind Policy Comparison Tool" through American Recovery and Reinvestment Act grants. The tools are designed to help more people across the country install wind turbines to produce clean, renewable energy. (more)
Coalition Brings Together Industry Leaders to Design National Model for Electric Vehicle Deployment Source: Company A new coalition of executives from blue chip companies in the transportation and utility industries announced it has come together to design a large-scale electric vehicle (EV) demonstration project that will help create a comprehensive national model for EV deployment. (more)
DOE Awards $7 Million to Reduce Electric Vehicle Charger Costs Source: DOE DOE announced awards totaling nearly $7 million in research and development funding that will help to reduce the current costs of electric vehicle chargers by 50% over the next three years. With DOE support, manufacturers in California, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania will work to improve the development and design of charging equipment. This research will promote "smart" charging capabilities that can help ensure electric vehicles enhance, rather than strain, existing electrical grid capacity. (more)
Ford Targets 30 Percent Water Reduction Per Vehicle Source: Company Ford enters 2012 with plans to further reduce the amount of water used to make vehicles and continue showing efficiency is not only inherent in its vehicle lineup, but also in its manufacturing practices. A new goal calls for Ford to cut the amount of water used to make each vehicle 30 percent globally by 2015, compared with the amount of water used per vehicle in 2009. (more)
Hawaii Leads Nation in Energy Savings Source: BEPA Hawaii is ranked No. 1 in the United States for investment in energy savings performance contracting (ESPC) for public buildings per capita, according to a ranking published by the Energy Services Coalition. (more)
Philly, Oakland Among Cities Winning Advice on Green Development Source: Greenbiz Philadelphia, Oakland and six other U.S. cities will get free help this coming year from sustainable building and development experts who'll take a fresh look at the towns through a green lens. (more)
GE Enables Mississippi’s First Landfill Gas-to-Electricity Project to Support Region’s Grid Source: Company With Mississippi looking to produce more domestic energy from renewable resources, government officials, utility and GE (NYSE: GE) representatives gathered at the Golden Triangle Regional Landfill in northeastern Mississippi to mark the commercial start-up of the state’s first landfill gas-to-electricity (LFGTE) project that will support the regional grid. (more)
DOE Awards $104 Million for Efficiency-Related Facilities at National Labs Source: Company DOE announced its selection of eight new and improved energy efficiency test facilities to be built at seven of its national laboratories with the help of $104.7 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds. The projects will support the development and improvement of energy efficiency technologies of strategic national interest. Specifically, the funding will go toward reducing the production cost of carbon fiber manufacturing, to help in reducing the weight of vehicles; improving the efficiency and lowering the costs for car batteries; and exploring advanced technologies for net-zero-energy buildings. This effort will leverage the combined intellectual and technical resources of DOE's national laboratories to support technologies that will help transform the economy and create jobs, while decreasing carbon emissions. The eight national laboratories are located in California, Colorado, Idaho, Illinois, New Mexico, Tennessee, and West Virginia. (more)
Water Source Heat Pumps exceed efficiency tandard, Help Reduce Operating Costs By Up to 35 Percent
Florida Hotels Credit SensorStat(R) for Saving Costs in Hot and Humid Conditions Source:Company The year-round heat and humidity of South Florida, combined with the continuing increases in oil prices, can take a heavy toll on the operating expenses of local businesses -- especially hotels that must keep their guests comfortable around the clock. (more)
Abbott Takes Fleet Carbon Neutral, Installs Solar Power
Emerson’s Copeland Scroll™ helps Canadian oil producers meet greenhouse gas emission targets Source: Company Emerson Process Management announced that its Copeland Scroll™ modular compression technology is enabling Canadian oil and gas producers to meet and exceed gas emissions standards recently recommended by the Clean Air Strategic Alliance (CASA). CASA is the non-profit association that seeks to achieve air that is odorless, tasteless, looks clear and has no adverse effects on people, animals or the environment. The organization’s Flaring and Venting Project Team annually assesses and makes recommendations regarding Alberta upstream petroleum industry solution gas flaring and venting. (more)
Advance Introduces F-Can Ballasts With Xtenza Wide-Range 
Source: CompanyIn a continuous effort to revolutionize low wattage metal halide technology and broaden its application, Advance Transformer announces the availability of F-Can ballasts now containing the company’s Xtenza wide-range ignitor, an exclusive feature which fully support applications involving up to 50 feet of remote, ballast-to-lamp mounting distance... (more)
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