Tom Carnahan forms clean energy fund

Tom Carnahan forms clean energy fund

St. Louis battle over solar panels pits preservation against environmentalism

St. Louis battle over solar panels pits preservation against environmentalism

Money meant for wind, solar power loses steam as customers shift from utility giants

Money meant for wind, solar power loses steam as customers shift from utility giants

Obama administration hits Chinese wind energy tower exports with new tariffs - The Hill's E2-Wire

The Commerce Department made a preliminary decision Wednesday to impose new tariffs on imports of wind energy towers from China, the latest volley in an escalating trade war between the two superpowers over expanding green technology markets.

The move by Commerce also reflects a show of strength by the Obama administration against China at a time when presumptive GOP presidential nominee Mitt Romney has criticized the administration for going soft. 

For more, click the link below:

Obama administration hits Chinese wind energy tower exports with new tariffs - The Hill's E2-Wire

Press Release : May 30, 2012

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HP Unveils Architecture for First Net Zero Energy Data Center

HP Labs architecture significantly reduces data-center power costs and energy requirements

Topics:Technology and Innovation, Environment

PALO ALTO, Calif. -- HP today unveiled research from HP Labs, the company’s central research arm, that illustrates the architecture for a data center that requires no net energy from traditional power grids.

The research shows how the architecture, combined with holistic energy-management techniques, enables organizations to cut total power usage by 30 percent, as well as dependence on grid power and costs by more than 80 percent.⁽¹⁾

With the HP Net-Zero Energy Data Center research, HP aims to provide businesses and societies around the world the potential to operate data centers using local renewable resources, removing dependencies such as location, energy supply and costs. This opens up the possibility of introducing IT services to organizations of all sizes.

“Information technology has the power to be an equalizer across societies globally, but the cost of IT services, and by extension the cost of energy, is prohibitive and inhibits widespread adoption,” saidCullen Bash, distinguished technologist, HP, and interim director, Sustainable Ecosystems Research Group, HP Labs. “The HP Net-Zero Energy Data Center not only aims to minimize the environmental impact of computing, but also has a goal of reducing energy costs associated with data-center operations to extend the reach of IT accessibility globally.”

HP Labs researchers describe the HP Net-Zero Energy Data Center architecture, which precisely matches energy supply with energy demand required by the IT workload, in the research paper “Towards the Design and Operation of Net-Zero Energy Data Centers,” to be presented tomorrow atIEEE’s 13th annual Intersociety Conference on Thermal and Thermomechanical Phenomena in Electrical Systems. The sustainable data center at HP Labs headquarters in Palo Alto, Calif., has served as the initial “test bed” for building this game-changing blueprint.

The HP Net-Zero Energy Data Center architecture integrates energy and cooling supply from local renewable sources, with a novel demand-management approach that allows the scheduling of IT workloads based on resource availability and performance requirements.

For example, noncritical, delay-tolerant workloads could be scheduled during daylight hours to coincide with solar supply for data centers equipped with photovoltaic energy generation. In this way, demand can be “shaped” according to resource availability to reduce reliance on nonrenewable resources. As a result, organizations can lower overall data-center costs—from capital investment in upfront infrastructure technology to the operational costs of workload execution—enabling more customers to take advantage of IT services.

The architecture for net-zero energy

The HP Net-Zero Energy Data Center is based on an innovative management architecture that integrates energy and cooling resources with IT workload planning through four modules:

• Prediction Module: Leverages powerful predictive analytics software to forecast the availability and cost of critical resources, such as renewable energy and IT workload demand.
• Planning Module: Delivers an optimization algorithm that balances workload scheduling with high-level operational goals, such as achieving net-zero energy operation, enabling organizations to schedule workloads based on resource availability, while meeting data-center operational goals.
• Execution Module: Enables organizations to manage workload and energy consumption in real time according to performance requirements and data-center operational objectives.
• Verification and Reporting Module: Identifies and remediates misalignment between the plan and execution, ensuring plan accuracy.

As part of the HP Open Innovation initiative, the Prediction Model leverages technologies developed by HP Labs in conjunction with Virginia Tech (Blacksburg, Va.) and the University of Limerick (Ireland).

Delivering innovation to the business

The HP Enterprise Group plans to further develop the HP Net-Zero Energy Data Center technology in collaboration with other HP divisions through the HP Moonshot Discovery Lab initiative and an HP EcoPOD that is part of the Discovery Lab in Houston.

HP’s state-of-the-art research facility located in Fort Collins, Colo., built in collaboration with HP Labs, also provides a production environment to expand the HP Net-Zero Energy Data Center architecture and related research into demand-management technology. This is a key step in bringing cutting-edge sustainability technologies to market.

HP will be showcasing the HP Net-Zero Energy Data Center architecture at HP Discover, the company’s premier client event, which takes place June 4-7 in Las Vegas.

Supporting resources

• Video: HP Net-Zero Energy Data Center
• Image: HP Net-Zero Energy Data Center architecture
• Slides: Illustrating the HP Net-Zero Energy Center architecture
• Sustainable Ecosystems Research Group
• HP’s sustainability site

---

⁽¹⁾ Based on internal HP testing and calculations in a lab environment, as compared to existing, nonintegrated techniques.

Western Washington Water Heater Rebate Puts a Fast $500 in Homeowners’ Pockets, New GE® Water Heater Saves Them Even More

News release:

30 May 2012

Western Washington Water Heater Rebate Puts a Fast $500 in Homeowners’ Pockets, New GE® Water Heater Saves Them Even More

 

• 
•  View Details

 

• $500 rebate applies to the purchase of GE’s GeoSpring™ Hybrid Water Heater
• Hybrid water heating technology can save consumers more than $3,000 during the 10-year warranty period

LOUISVILLE, Ky., — May 30, 2012 — (NYSE: GE) — It just got easier to save money on utility bills in western Washington, thanks to a rebate program from Puget Sound Energy. When Puget Sound Energy consumers buy the new GE^® GeoSpring™ Hybrid Water Heater, they may be eligible to apply for a $500 rebate, reducing the cost to purchase the water heater. The ENERGY STAR^®-qualified water heater saves up to $325 per year on utility bills, which means the GeoSpring quickly pays for itself.*

Over 10 years, this savings can add up to more than $3,000 that can be used toward a vacation, a shopping spree, a home improvement or a rainy-day fund rather than going into the utility bill.

“Many consumers are unaware that the water heater is the second biggest energy user in the home behind the HVAC system,” said Keith Burkhardt, marketing manager for GE Appliances. “Through this rebate program, money is saved on both the product purchase and on utility bills—money the family can spend on something more enjoyable.”

Technology that drives energy and cost savingsThe GeoSpring’s hybrid technology is designed to absorb heat in ambient air and transfer it into the water. Since this uses much less energy than what’s needed to generate radiant heat—as used in a conventional electric tank water heater—the GeoSpring is more economical to operate.

Other features of the GeoSpring:

• Includes same water and electrical connections as the standard electric water heater, making it easy to install.
• Provides the same amount of hot water as traditional 50-gallon standard electric water heaters.
• Integrated electronics on the GeoSpring’s control panel offer exclusive features, such as Vacation mode, which will lower the water temperature to 50 degrees for the duration of a trip, and then automatically reenergize itself the day before the homeowner’s return.
• Offers additional control over water temperature by allowing consumers to adjust the temperature setting in one-degree increments from 100 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.

"The goal of the PSE rebate program is to encourage our customers to save energy and money," said Walker Dodson, program manager with Puget Sound Energy. "The GeoSpring is a great choice for customers because of its energy efficiency and the ongoing savings it delivers.”

Rebate detailsTo participate, the water heater must be installed outside of the living space, such as a garage, attic or crawl space. Customers must then complete the rebate application and submit it with a copy of the receipt that clearly shows the equipment brand name, model number, purchase price and purchase location.** For additional information about the water heater rebate and eligibility requirements for the rebate program, please visit PSE.com/rebates.

As an added convenience to simplify the shopping experience, GE Appliances’ new Rebate Finder easily allows consumers to see rebates by appliance model that may be available in their area. From GEAppliances.com, simply enter your zip code and select Water Heaters in the product field to view rebate details and submit.

Pricing and availabilityAssembly of the new GeoSpring Hybrid Water Heaters started in February in Louisville, Ky. GeoSpring is available at national retailers such as Lowe's and Sears and national plumbing distributors such as Ferguson, as well as many local retailers and distributors. For more information on features and availability, visit www.GEAppliances.com/GeoSpring. The estimated retail price for GeoSpring is $1,199-$1,299.***

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter or check out our website for more information Friend GE Appliances on Facebook to view how-to videos; learn about new GE appliances, and join in the discussion with other GE appliance owners. Join today and follow @GE_Appliances on Twitter or just locate detailed information about our products at www.geappliances.com.

About GE AppliancesGE Appliances is at the forefront of building innovative, energy-efficient appliances that improve people’s lives. GE Appliances’ products include refrigerators, freezers, cooking products, dishwashers, washers, dryers, air conditioners, water filtration systems and water heaters. General Electric (NYSE: GE) works on things that matter to build a world that works better. For more information on GE Appliances, visit www.ge.com/appliances.

*Based on DOE test procedure and comparison of a 50-gallon standard electric tank water heater using 4879 kWh every year vs. the GeoSpring hybrid water heater using 1830 kWh every year.

** Rebate application must be submitted within 30 days of equipment installation. One rebate per qualifiying metered, residential customer on qualifying installations.

***Dealers set their own prices.

Glittering lighting makeover for Tower Bridge readies London's world-famous icon for historic year 2012

News release:

30 May 2012

Glittering lighting makeover for Tower Bridge readies London's world-famous icon for historic year 2012

 

Landmark dazzles in diamond white for Queen's Jubilee weekend

Tower Bridge, one of the world's most recognisable landmarks, has been transformed with a new world-class lighting system in time to mark the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The new state-of-the-art, energy efficient lighting system will have its first official switch on this evening and then will gleam white this weekend to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

Tower Bridge will be firmly in the global spotlight this summer and - thanks to an innovative funding deal reached between Mayor of London Boris Johnson, bridge-owners the City of London Corporation, and London 2012 sponsors EDF and GE - an LED-lighting and cabling system has now been fully installed at no cost to taxpayers.

The new lights brighten up the bridge, enhance its architectural features and replace static lights with bulbs that can vary in intensity and colour, while at the same time cutting energy consumption considerably.

The new lights will take centre stage for during the 2012 Games when Tower Bridge will be fitted with its giant Olympic Rings and Paralympic Agitos for the 45 days of the Games. Passers-by will see the new system being tested over coming weeks ready for spectacular one-off lighting displays during key moments of the Games.

Londoners will enjoy benefits from the deal long after the Games, as the new lighting system will be in place for 25 years. In total 1,800 special energy-efficient LED lights have been fitted, along with 2,000 meters of energy-efficient LED linear lights, 5,000 meters of cable and 1,000 junction boxes. Final planning permission for the project was granted in November 2011 and work began immediately to install the new system.

Tower Bridge, already the world’s most recognisable capital landmark now has a world-class lighting system to suit its status.

The Mayor of London Boris Johnson said: “Tower Bridge is already a global icon and this much-loved landmark is now even more spectacular thanks to a world-class illumination system.

“As London gears up for a summer like no other, this fantastic lighting makeover is another example of how the capital is benefiting from the Games. Tower Bridge can now play a starring role in our celebrations, starting off this weekend by being bathed in a stately white light for the Queen's Diamond Jubilee.

“What’s more, thanks to the commitment and generosity of all the partners, including the City of London Corporation, EDF Energy and GE, this is a lasting legacy for decades to come, achieved with zero price-tag for the taxpayer.”

Mark Boleat, the Chairman of Policy & Resources for bridge-owners the City of London Corporation, said: “The new lights will give Tower Bridge an elegant night-time look for the next 25 years, with the capability of creating firework-like displays on occasions of importance for London and the nation.”

Phil Marshall, President and CEO, GE Lighting EMEA said: “We are incredibly proud to have been involved with the lighting scheme at Tower Bridge. The combination of architectural and floodlight LEDs were specified to help reduce the energy used to light the bridge by up to 40 % compared with the previous system. As a London 2012 Sustainability Partner and London 2012 sponsor, GE is excited to have successfully contributed to the future of Tower Bridge and to London’s sustainability commitments. Furthermore, during London 2012 as part of the overall celebrations, there will be an evening light display every evening at on the Bridge, ensuring those in the city can fully enjoy the new lighting scheme and see Tower Bridge as they never have before."

Vincent de Rivaz, Chief Executive of EDF Energy, said: “As an official partner and the official electricity supplier of the London 2012 Games, it has been a delight to work with the GLA and GE to give Tower Bridge a dramatic makeover. We are proud to be able to help show off London’s most famous bridge over the Diamond Jubilee weekend and throughout the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“EDF Energy powers some of London’s most iconic landmarks with low-carbon electricity, including Tower Bridge. Thanks to its new state-of-the-art lighting, Tower Bridge has further reduced its carbon footprint to become a standout symbol of sustainability, encouraging visitors and residents to live a lower carbon lifestyle.”

NOTES

1. Photographs of the new lighting system are available 

Top 15 photos including sponsor logos, and b-roll web video:http://reformerfilms.photodeck.com/-/galleries/tower-bridge-relighting

2. Tower Bridge, as one of the five City bridges, is provided and maintained at no cost to the taxpayer by the City of London Corporation’s Bridge House Estates charity fund. This ancient fund was set up from tolls collected on the first London Bridge. In addition to maintaining the bridges, its City Bridge Trust grant-giving arm makes grants of ₤15m a year to charitable projects benefiting Londoners. The City of London Corporation is the elected body which looks after the Square Mile business and financial district. As part of this role it supports the UK-based financial services industry, provides local authority services and policing for the Square Mile, and a number of special services and facilities for wider London and the wider UK, including the Barbican arts centre, Hampstead Heath, Epping Forest and the Port Health Authority. See www.cityoflondon.gov.uk for full details.

3. The EDF Group, one of the leaders in the energy market in Europe, is an integrated energy company active in all businesses: generation, transmission, distribution, energy supply and trading. The Group is the leading electricity producer in Europe and has around 170,000 employees. EDF is the official energy utilities partner and sustainability partner of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. EDF Energy is part of EDF Group and employs around 15,000 people at locations across the UK. It is one of the UK’s largest energy companies and the largest producer of low-carbon electricity, producing around one-fifth of the nation's electricity from its nuclear, coal and gas power stations and wind farms. The company supplies gas and electricity to more than 5.5 million business and residential customers and is the biggest supplier of electricity by volume in the UK. Through “Our Sustainability Commitments”, EDF Energy has launched one of the biggest environmental and social programmes of any British energy company. The company is helping its customers and others use energy more sustainably through products and initiatives such as Team Green Britain, smart meters and electric vehicle research.

4. GE and the OlympicsGE is the exclusive provider of a wide range of innovative products and services that are integral to staging a successful Olympic Games. GE works closely with host countries, cities and organizing committees to provide infrastructure solutions for Olympic venues including power, lighting, water treatment and transportation. GE also supplies local hospitals with diagnostic imaging equipment and healthcare IT solutions like ultrasound, MRI and electronic medical record technologies to help doctors treat athletes. For more information, visit www.ge.com/olympicgames.

GE in the UKGE has been operating in the UK since the 1930s and works on things that matter. The best people taking on the toughest challenges. Today our 18,000 UK employees work across 60 major locations, including 25 world-class manufacturing and R&D facilities, finding solutions in energy, oil & gas, healthcare, aerospace and financial industries. Our business is about building, powering. moving and curing the world. Not just imagining. Doing. GE works. For more information, visit www.ge.com/uk.

GE LightingGE Lighting invents with the vigour of its founder Thomas Edison to develop energy-efficient solutions that change the way people light their world in commercial, industrial, municipal and residential settings. The business employs over 17,000 people in more than 100 countries, and sells products under the Reveal and Energy Smart consumer brands, and Evolve, GTx, Immersion, Infusion, Lumination and Tetra commercial brands, all trademarks of GE. For more information, visit www.gelighting.com/eu

Lab Breakthrough: Desiccant Enhanced Evaporative Air Conditioning

http://energy.gov/articles/lab-breakthrough-desiccant-enhanced-evaporative-air-conditioning

They’re charged up for electric cars - KansasCity.com

Not truly renewable.  A lot depends on the source(s) of electricity.  But I am post ing the article, anyway.

They’re charged up for electric cars - KansasCity.com

ThinkEco and Best Buy Bring Smart Wireless Control to Window Air Conditioners in New York City

News release:

ThinkEco and Best Buy Bring Smart Wireless Control to Window Air Conditioners in New York City

First Web- and App-Enabled Window AC Thermostat Now Available to New York City Residents at Select Best Buy Stores New York (May 24, 2012) – ThinkEco, Inc., the energy efficiency firm, is now offering New York City residents an easy way to take control of their air conditioning bills this summer.  Using the modlet smartAC kit – available exclusively at select Best Buy stores throughout New York City – residents will now be able to remotely control their window air conditioners via smartphone app or browser, and preset convenient savings schedules so their rooms are only cooled as needed. Best Buy is offering the modlet smartAC kit in partnership with the coolNYC program (www.coolnycprogram.com), created by ThinkEco and Con Edison. The coolNYC program combines the modlet smartAC, an easy-to-use energy efficiency product, with an incentivized program that uses real-time energy reduction capabilities to help manage residential peak usage on window air conditioners. It also allows Con Edison customers to help protect the environment by using less energy while keeping their homes cool during the summer heat. By Memorial Day, Best Buy will be offering modlet smartAC kits for $69.99 for the coolNYC program ($150 MSRP). As a coolNYC partner, the Geek Squad will also be available to support the installation of smartAC kits and get consumers connected, making this experience as easy as possible for everyone. NYC purchasers will receive a $25 rebate upon setting up their smartAC account, and an additional $25 thank you gift at the end of the summer. The $25 thank you is a recurring gift that users will receive each summer that they use the modlet smartAC kit and participate in coolNYC. “At Best Buy, we believe retail-utility partnerships are critical in the education of our consumers to reduce energy consumption.  We bring innovative technology to our customers, and teach them how easy it can be to help the environment, save money and enhance their lifestyle,” said Kris Bowring, senior director of Home and Energy Management at Best Buy. “We are excited to partner with ThinkEco and CoolNYC, and credit them for being a leader in this type of market-based program.  The modlet smartAC fits perfectly with our commitment to educate and assist our customers’ concerns about their energy use.” ThinkEco’s modlet (http://themodlet.com/demo.html) is a smart outlet that wirelessly combines with the smartAC thermostat. When used together, users can remotely view their current room temperature, change the target temperature for the room, or simply turn the window air conditioner unit on/off from any smartphone or browser. In addition, users can preset convenient on/off schedules for their window AC units, so that their rooms are cooled only when needed, and the savings associated with those schedules are tracked.  This transforms the stand-alone window air-conditioner into a smart, networked device that gives users enhanced convenience and control.  Customers who participate in the coolNYC program also have the opportunity to play a role in maintaining electrical service in NYC during times of heavy usage. When a peak usage event is called, customers can opt-in to have Con Edison adjust the temperature of their air conditioner unit. With over six million window air-conditioner units in Con Edison’s service area – which sometimes run unnecessarily when residents are not home – the ability for Con Edison to adjust air-conditioner temperatures remotely during a heat wave could help to manage peak summer demand. “The modlet smartAC is the only user installable demand-reduction product with a strong consumer and utility benefit,” said Mei Shibata, Chief Strategy Officer of ThinkEco, Inc.  “What this ease-of-use enables is an entirely new way for leading retailers, like Best Buy, to play a pivotal role in the distribution of utility-sponsored solutions by partnering with utilities and technology providers.” About ThinkEco, Inc. New York City-based ThinkEco, Inc. is a leading provider of easy-to-use energy efficiency solutions for homes and businesses. Its patented modlet system is a networked and scalable smart-plug platform that wirelessly connects any plug load to ThinkEco's robust cloud solution, powered by proprietary algorithms. The modlet provides the remote metering of plug-load power consumption in real time, and enables users to set savings schedules to better control their energy use and quantify savings. For more information, visit www.thinkeco.com or follow the company on Twitter @ThinkEco and Facebook at www.facebook.com/ThinkEco. About Best Buy Best Buy Co., Inc. (NYSE: BBY) is a leading multi-channel global retailer and developer of technology products and services. Every day our employees - 167,000 strong - are committed to helping deliver the technology solutions that enable easy access to people, knowledge, ideas and fun. We are keenly aware of our role and impact on the world, and we are committed to developing and implementing business strategies that bring sustainable technology solutions to our consumers and communities. For information about Best Buy, visit www.bby.com and to shop at Best Buy, visit www.bestbuy.com.

Grassley on the President’s Visit to Iowa on Wind Energy

For Immediate Release
May 23, 2012

Grassley on the President’s Visit to Iowa on Wind Energy

Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa authored and won enactment of the first-ever wind energy production tax credit in 1992.  The incentive was designed to give wind energy the ability to compete against coal-fired and nuclear energy and helped to launch the wind energy industry.  He has worked to extend the credit ever since.  He made the following comment on President Obama’s visit to Iowa on wind energy this week.

“I’m glad the President likes Iowa but his visit won’t have much to do with getting the wind energy tax credit extended.  He could travel down the street from the White House to the Capitol and talk to the congressional leadership instead, especially in the Senate, controlled by his party.  It was surprising to read in the paper this week that he hasn’t talked to key committee chairmen in his own party in months.  Maybe the lack of communication is why the President and the Senate Democrats let the biodiesel tax credit expire at the end of 2011 and made that industry suffer from uncertain tax policy.

“There’s strong bipartisan support in both the House and the Senate for extending the wind energy tax credit.   I introduced a bill with bipartisan co-sponsors in March, for example.  The provision is hung up in the lack of a way forward on dozens of expiring tax provisions.  The President could exert his leadership by working with Congress on a way forward instead of calling for a provision that’s a no-brainer for many of us.  He’s focusing on the easy part of a bigger task.  The stakes for the wind industry and the country in general will only get worse with delay.    It’s time to act, not politick.”

Information on Grassley’s bipartisan bill to extend the wind energy tax credit is availablehere.

Orlando Water Heater Rebate Puts a Fast $650 in Homeowners’ Pockets, New GE® Water Heater Saves Even More

Press release:

22 May 2012

Orlando Water Heater Rebate Puts a Fast $650 in Homeowners’ Pockets, New GE® Water Heater Saves Even More

 

• 
•  View Details

 

• $650 rebate applies to the purchase of GE’s GeoSpring™ Hybrid Water Heater
• Hybrid water-heating technology can save consumers more than $3,000 during the 10-year warranty period

LOUISVILLE, Ky., — May 22, 2012 — (NYSE: GE) — It just got easier to save money on utility bills in Orlando, thanks to a new rebate program from utility partner Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC). When consumers and builders buy the new GE^® GeoSpring™ Hybrid Water Heater, they are eligible to apply for a $650 rebate, reducing the cost to purchase the water heater. The ENERGY STAR^®-qualified water heater saves up to $325 per year on utility bills, which means the GeoSpring quickly pays for itself.*

Over 10 years, this savings can add up to more than $3,000 that can be used toward a vacation, a shopping spree, a home improvement or a rainy-day fund instead of being unnecessarily drained into the utility bill.

“Many consumers are unaware that the water heater is the second biggest energy drain in the home behind the HVAC system,” said Keith Burkhardt, marketing manager for GE Appliances. “Through this rebate program, money is saved on both the product purchase and on utility bills—money the family can spend on something more enjoyable.”

Technology that drives energy and cost savingsThe GeoSpring’s hybrid technology is designed to absorb heat in ambient air and transfer it into the water. Since this uses much less energy than what’s needed to generate radiant heat—as used in a conventional electric tank water heater—the GeoSpring is more economical to operate.

Other features of the GeoSpring include:

• Includes the same water and electrical connections as the standard electric water heater, making it easy to install.
• Provides the same amount of hot water as traditional 50-gallon standard electric water heaters.
• Integrated electronics on the GeoSpring’s control panel offer exclusive features, such as Vacation mode, which will lower the water temperature to 50 degrees for the duration of a trip, and then automatically reenergize itself the day before the homeowner’s return.
• Offers additional control over water temperature by allowing consumers to adjust the temperature setting in one-degree increments from 100 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.

"The goal of our rebates is to help customers reduce their energy and water consumption and, in turn, their utility bills," said Byron Knibbs, OUC vice president of sustainable services. "Installing an energy-efficient, heat pump water heater can cut a home's water heating costs by more than half, making it an effective way for homeowners to save energy, water and money.”

Rebate detailsThe rebate can be applied when replacing existing electric water heaters. All receipts/invoices must be dated and submitted within 12 months of the date work is completed. Rebate applications are available at energy-efficient water heater retailers and online at www.ouc.com.

When submitting a rebate application, the water heater’s model number must be included on the contractor’s invoice. Receipt and proof of ENERGY STAR® qualification are also required to receive this rebate. For work performed by the customer: If the receipt does not include the model number, submit a copy of the retailer’s item description of the product installed.Rebates will appear as a credit on the consumer’s OUC bill. Processing takes six to eight weeks.

As an added convenience to simplify the shopping experience, GE Appliances’ new Rebate Finder easily allows consumers to see rebates by appliance model that may be available in their area. From GEAppliances.com, simply enter your zip code and select Water Heaters in the product field to view rebate details and submit.

Pricing and availabilityAssembly of the new GeoSpring Hybrid Water Heaters started in February in Louisville, Ky. GeoSpring is available at national retailers such as Lowe's and Sears and national plumbing distributors such as Ferguson, as well as many local retailers and distributors. For more information on features and availability, visit www.GEAppliances.com/GeoSpring. The estimated retail price for GeoSpring is $1,199-$1,299.**

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter or check out our website for more information Friend GE Appliances on Facebook to view how-to videos; learn about new GE appliances, and join in the discussion with other GE appliance owners. Join today and follow @GE_Appliances on Twitter or just locate detailed information about our products at www.geappliances.com.

About GE AppliancesGE Appliances is at the forefront of building innovative, energy-efficient appliances that improve people’s lives. GE Appliances’ products include refrigerators, freezers, cooking products, dishwashers, washers, dryers, air conditioners, water filtration systems and water heaters. General Electric (NYSE: GE) works on things that matter to build a world that works better. For more information on GE Appliances, visit www.ge.com/appliances.

*Based on DOE test procedure and comparison of a 50-gallon standard electric tank water heater using 4879 kWh every year vs. the GeoSpring Hybrid Water Heater using 1830 kWh every year.

**Dealers set their own prices.

GE Technology to Supply Efficient, Flexible Power for Mexican Cogeneration Plant

Press release from GE.  Not Renewable Energy in the strictest sense, but possibly still of interest.

22 May 2012

GE Technology to Supply Efficient, Flexible Power for Mexican Cogeneration Plant

 

• GE to Provide Two LM6000-PF Aeroderivative Gas Turbine Packages
• New Plant to Produce Electricity, Steam for ALPEK Petrochemical Complex
• Project Supports Mexico Government’s Cogeneration Initiative

HOUSTON, TEXAS—May 22, 2012—GE’s (NYSE: GE) proven, flexible and efficient LM6000 aeroderivative gas turbine technology has been selected for the ALPEK Cogeneration project at its subsidiary Petrotemex’s site in Cosoleacaque, Veracruz, Mexico. Supporting the Mexican government’s initiative to encourage more efficient power generation, the cogeneration plant will produce more than 85 megawatts of electricity and all the site’s steam requirements.

GE’s aeroderivative gas turbine business recently signed a multimillion-dollar contract to supply two LM6000-PF gas turbine-generator packages to a joint venture including Schrader Camargo of Mexico and Sener of Spain, who are the engineering, procurement and construction contractors for the project. Announced earlier this month at the GE-CONCAMIN Cogeneration Forum, the cogeneration project will likely lead to local job creation and help spur industrial growth in the region.

“We worked very closely with GE to develop the most competitive and efficient solution for ALPEK,” said Felipe Garza Medina, president of Petrotemex. “We determined that GE offered the best combination of cost and performance fit to meet the specific requirements of this cogeneration application.”

In the cogeneration process, a single fuel source, such as natural gas, is used to produce both electrical and thermal energy. An on-site cogeneration system is more efficient than a utility-operated central power plant since thermal energy that would otherwise be wasted is captured for use at the on-site facility.

Powered by the two GE LM6000-PF units, the ALPEK Cogeneration plant will operate at 85 percent thermal efficiency. The gas-fired facility will begin commercial service in the first quarter of 2014.

The LM6000-PF offers high efficiency, 10-minute start times, competitive maintenance and outstanding availability and reliability. The units for ALPEK will feature DLE technology, which does not use water and guarantees low emissions.

“Defining a new era of flexible power generation, GE’s proven LM6000 technology provides an economical and efficient solution for the needs of the industrial sector,” said Darryl Wilson, vice president—aeroderivative gas turbines for GE Power & Water. “We see strong opportunity for this technology in Mexico where activity in the private industrial sector is increasing, due to low gas prices and the government’s strong support for cogeneration.”

The ALPEK Cogeneration project illustrates how GE’s comprehensive suite of distributed power solutions—ranging in size from 100 kilowatts to 100 megawatts—can help customers worldwide generate more reliable, on-site electricity and heat. The project also underscores GE’s growing presence in the refinery/petrochemicals industry. GE’s dedicated Global Industries organization is bringing energy management, CHP and other waste-to-value solutions to the petrochemical industry, benefitting the companies involved as well as surrounding communities.

About GE

GE (NYSE: GE) works on things that matter. The best people and the best technologies taking on the toughest challenges. Finding solutions in energy, health and home, transportation and finance. Building, powering, moving and curing the world. Not just imagining. Doing. GE works. For more information, visit the company's website at www.ge.com.

GE Energy works connecting people and ideas everywhere to create advanced technologies for powering a cleaner, more productive world. With more than 100,000 employees in over 100 countries, our diverse portfolio of product and service solutions and deep industry expertise help our customers solve their challenges locally. We serve the energy sector with technologies in such areas as natural gas, oil, coal and nuclear energy; wind, solar, biogas and water processing; energy management; and grid modernization. We also offer integrated solutions to serve energy- and water-intensive industries such as mining, metals, marine, petrochemical, food & beverage and unconventional fuels.

Pumping and Flow Controls in Geothermal Heat Pump Systems | 2012-05-02 | Engineered Systems Magazine

Pumping and Flow Controls in Geothermal Heat Pump Systems | 2012-05-02 | Engineered Systems Magazine

CABA completes "Smart Grid Impact on Intelligent Buildings" study | 2012-05-19 | Engineered Systems Magazine

CABA completes "Smart Grid Impact on Intelligent Buildings" study | 2012-05-19 | Engineered Systems Magazine

Simple Summer Savings

From DOE Energy Savers Blog:

May 21, 2012 12:26

It's officially summer! Well, no, it isn't, but we are so close!

That said, I began thinking about ways that I plan to save energy and energy costs at my apartment in the upcoming months of unending heat and humidity.

One surprising thing I learned while doing a little research is that a full refrigerator naturally optimizes your energy consumption. Apparently it works like this: when you open the door, a stocked refrigerator will hinder the cool air from escaping and subsequently, the more items that take up space, the less air there is to have to cool.

I really can't think of a reason not to have a full refrigerator anyway, especially one that contains items that can and should be eaten chilled. Green salads and fruit medleys are healthy options—especially if locally and organically grown—that can also decrease your energy use as they don't require the electrical appliances to prepare them. Plus, as many of us know, it is more comfortable to consume cooler foods during those torturous, over 100-degree days.

Though there are many tips for saving energy during the summer, this is just a simple way to conserve and one that I plan on trying out myself.

Kristin Swineford supports DOE's Weatherization & Intergovernmental Program in Communications & Outreach.

Shaheen-Portman Energy Efficiency Bill Will Save Consumers $60 Billion, Help Businesses Create 159,000 Jobs - Rob Portman

Shaheen-Portman Energy Efficiency Bill Will Save Consumers $60 Billion, Help Businesses Create 159,000 Jobs - Rob Portman

Press release:

IBM Smart Building Technology to Increase U.S. Federal Buildings Energy Efficiency

Innovative smart building systems to be installed initially in 50 government buildings, has estimated annual savings of $15 million
        

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WASHINGTON, D.C. and Armonk, N.Y. - 21 May 2012: The U.S. General Services Administration has awarded a contract to IBM (NYSE: IBM) to develop and install advanced smart building technology in 50 of the federal government’s highest energy-consuming buildings. Part of GSA’s larger smart building strategy, this initiative will connect building management systems to a central cloud based platform, improving efficiency and saving up to $15 million in taxpayer dollars annually.

Commercial buildings account for nearly 40% of the United State’s primary energy use and GSA owns nearly 182 million square feet of office space nationwide. GSA's plan to meet the requirements of President Obama’s Executive Order 13514 includes a goal of reducing energy consumption in federal buildings by 30% by 2015.

Under the terms of the contract, IBM will develop a system to monitor building performance nationwide and stream data to a central facility, allowing faster analysis and more informed decision-making. This project uses innovative building management technology, linking major building controls in real-time to make federal buildings more energy efficient. When fully implemented, GSA will use newly available data and analytics to save energy and reduce building operating costs in GSA’s entire owned inventory.

“The development of this industry-leading smart building system begins a new era in how GSA manages our nation’s public buildings and will prove the feasibility of this technology for the larger industry,” said GSA Acting Public Buildings Commissioner Linda Chero. “This program connects existing building technologies in new ways to improve building efficiency in over 32 million square feet of real estate. Awarding this contract benefits taxpayers, as it will reduce maintenance and operating costs of the federal building portfolio -- saving taxpayers an estimated $15 million annually.”

When the system is fully integrated, tenants will be able to view the performance of their buildings on dashboards with real time metrics on energy savings and recommendations on how to further increase efficiencies. In the first year, 50 buildings will be integrated on this building management system. As additional federal buildings are constructed and other facilities are upgraded, those buildings will also be managed with this platform. The new technology will give property managers real time information and diagnostic tools to keep buildings performing at peak efficiency, increasing cost savings across the federal building portfolio.

“We are at a tipping point in terms of advancing the greening of our buildings and making them smarter,” said IBM Vice President of Industry Solutions Dave Bartlett.  “When you look at buildings holistically, with end-to-end visibility across all systems,  you can more clearly see the connections, the interactions, and opportunities for efficiency among the various systems.  Using analytics, we can make better decisions about how to best visualize and optimize these systems.  The data exists – it's a matter of understanding and responding to what the data is telling us, and that's what we're helping GSA to do.”

For additional information on GSA’s smart building efforts, visit:  http://www.gsa.gov/portal/category/100731

For more information on IBM Smarter Buildings, visit: www.ibm.com/smarterplanet/buildings

A Working Model

The following is the introduction to the cover article of the new Renewable Energy from Waste magazine.


A Working Model

Greenwood Energy is producing market-friendly fuel pellets from waste in America's heartland.

Brian Taylor
April 23, 2012

Many alternative energy efforts get their starts with an application for a government grant or a proposal designed to tie into a specific tax advantage.

Greenwood Energy has applied for and received low-interest government-backed loans, but General Manager Ted Hansen says his company has created its business model specifically to “avoid reliance on unreliable government subsidies.”

New York-based Greenwood Energy is ramping up a facility in Green Bay, Wis., based on following that premise. It can handle 150,000 tons of inbound material while creating a fuel pellet that can compete with or supplement coal as boiler feedstock.

According to its website www.gwenergy.com, the fuel pellet production is a key part of one of the two main divisions of Greenwood Energy, the Fuels division. The other division focuses on “clean power generation [and] investing in and evaluating a number of projects across the biomass, fuel cell, hydro and biogas spaces.”

Having yielded positive early returns, Greenwood Energy’s project in Green Bay now signifies just a start to a wider plan to build several similar facilities in other parts of the country.


For more, click the link below:

http://www.rewmag.com/rew0412-fuel-pellets-from-waste.aspx

Taylor Biomass Energy Receives Approval for Waste-to-Energy Plant

Plant will convert more than 1,000 tons of solid waste, C&D material and wood waste per day into electricity.

Taylor Biomass Energy,  based in Montgomery, N.Y., has received the final, local “green light” by the town board of Montgomery, N.Y., to move ahead with plans to build a waste-to-energy facility in the city. The project will be build on Taylor Recycling’s existing 90-acre site.

According to Taylor Biomass Energy (TBE), the vote to approve Phase III of the project’s site plan is the culmination of several years of review of the energy company by local officials.

Once completed, the Taylor Biomass-Montgomery gasification system will generate 24 megawatts of electricity. The project will also generate $384.4 million in economic impact, as well as 82 permanent jobs and 318 temporary construction jobs over the next 18 months.

For more, click the link below:


http://www.rewmag.com/taylor-biomass-wte-plant.aspx

Apps for Energy Public Voting Starts Today!

From DOE energy blog:

Apps for Energy Public Voting Starts Today!

May 17, 2012 - 3:53pm

The Energy Department's digital team tested out Apps for Energy submissions in preparation for public voting. | Photo by Hantz Leger.

Erin R. Pierce

Digital Specialist, Office of Public Affairs

How can I participate?

• View the Apps for Energy submissions and vote for your favorite!

Back in April, we launched Apps for Energy -- challenging developers to build mobile and web applications that bring Green Button electricity data to life. You answered our call -- sending in innovative, creative and fun apps that help consumers make informed decisions about their energy usage data in ways that save energy and money.

Now that Apps for Energy submissions are in, we want your input! Starting today, you can vote for your favorite Apps for Energy submissions as part of our public voting contest.

To participate, visit our challenge page at appsforenergy.challenge.gov. There, you can browse our submission gallery and view photos, videos and detailed descriptions for more than 50 web and mobile applications.

Your vote will help determine the Grand Prize and Second Place winners for the Apps for Energy Popular Choice Awards. You can vote once per day, for as many submissions as you’d like until the close of public voting on May 31, 2012.

Want to share feedback on your favorite apps? Connect with us on Facebook and Twitter (#appsforenergy) to share your thoughts. We’ll be listening.

Good luck developers!