News 2007:

For months, momentum was building.

What began as a power plant protest by the usual suspects – environmental groups – eventually gained steam and supporters from across the political spectrum. A broad coalition of leaders began pressuring the state to change its approach to energy and environmental regulations.

What Toxic Air Pollutants Are Produced by Petroleum-Based Fuels and Combustion Engines?

Production, sales and use of petroleum-derived fuels in the United States emit thousands of tons of chemical pollutants to air each day. Hundreds of different chemical compounds are found in emissions from petroleum-burning engines. People are exposed to these compounds at home, work and school by breathing the air outdoors and indoors, traveling on busy roadways, parking vehicles in their garages, and during most daily activities. Key pollutants are listed below; the health harms linked to these pollutants are described on a companion fact sheet:

Why Hydrogen?

As a nearly ideal energy carrier, hydrogen will play a critical role in a new, decentralized energy infrastructure that can provide power to vehicles, homes, and industries. Hydrogen boasts many important advantages over other fuels: it is non-toxic, renewable, clean to use, and packs much more energy per pound.

March 16, 2007

10.5 Million Alternative Fuel Autos on Roads Today

Automakers kicked off National Alternative Fuel Autos Week by announcing that there are 10.5 million Alternative Fuel Autos on the nation's roads today, according to 2006 sales data from R.L. Polk and Co.

144th Meeting of the OPEC Conference

As we moved towards this meeting there was a feeling almost of despair around the Vienna arena with the view that OPEC would not announce anything new when it met this week.

Activist group makes case against electricity market rates

The activist group Public Citizen made its case in federal court Wednesday for a requirement that all wholesale electricity rates be filed in advance and assessed on how reasonable they are, rather than blanket approvals being issued for fluctuating market-based rates in competitive markets.

AEP to Install Carbon Capture on Two Existing Power Plants; Company Will be First to Move Technology to Commercial Scale

American Electric Power (NYSE: AEP) will install carbon capture on two coal-fired power plants, the first commercial use of technologies to significantly reduce carbon dioxide emissions from existing plants.

Applied commits to 1.9 megawatt solar gen installation

Complementing the moves it has already made to be an enabler for solar power generation, Santa Clara, CA-based semiconductor and thin film manufacturing equipment giant Applied Materials Inc., said today that it will install more than 1.9 megawatts of solar power generation capability at its research campus in Sunnyvale, CA.

Arctic Impact on Global Warming Lures Scientists

A polar bear swimming amid melting Arctic sea ice may be one image of global warming's impact. But it could just as well be a California wildfire, a European heat wave or a Caribbean hurricane.

Arizona Public Service Puts Out Renewables RFP

Arizona Public Service (APS) is requesting proposals for near- and long-term new sources of renewable energy that can be delivered to the company’s electrical system.

Armed With Billions, GE Shops For Alternative-energy Deals

Images of giant wind turbines and solar panels flashed across the screen as Kevin P. Walsh of General Electric Financial Services spoke about the growing list of alternative energy investments by the blue chip financial and industrial firm.

Bingaman-- National carbon cap-and-trade system would be best

A single national cap-and-trade program to reduce greenhouse emissions would benefit the power industry by reducing the complexity associated with a patchwork of similar regulations at the state level, the chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee said.

Britain Looks to Boost Wind, Wave and Tidal Power

Britain published new plans on Thursday to streamline the development of offshore wind, wave and tidal power projects, while still protecting wildlife, as part of the fight against global warming.

Britain proposes bold environmental legislation that could pave way for post-Kyoto pact

The British government proposed bold new environmental legislation Tuesday that would set legally binding, long-term limits on carbon emissions - a move it hopes will prompt the United States, China and India to follow suit.

California utility leads U.S. in purchase of green power

Southern California Edison delivered 12.6 billion kWh of renewable energy last year, enough to serve 1.8 million homes for the year.

Canada invests in carbon capture

The I-CAN Center for the Conversion of Carbon Dioxide received funding Monday from the Canadian government and Natural Resources Canada.

Canada Strengthens Renewable Energy System

The Canadian McGuinty government is increasing the amount of wind, solar, biomass and waterpower used to power Ontario's electricity grid with 22 new renewable energy projects awarded through the Standard Offer Program (SOP), Canadian Energy Minister Dwight Duncan announced.

Canada's Black Gold

Oilsands might be the new black gold. But the fuel source, which has the potential to replace vast supplies of foreign oil and which is largely found in Canada, is under attack there and elsewhere.

Clean-energy funds soar

U.S. venture capital funding for the booming clean-energy sector reached record levels in 2006, according to a report from Clean Edge Inc. and Nth Power.

Cleantech and Emissions 2.0

As 2007 has begun to roll along, I am experiencing a bit of a carbon trading snowball. Having preached the value of "green trading" for over a decade, it is somewhat of a surreal experience to be "discovered." What I have basically been saying is there cannot be dual environmental standards for the United States and the rest of the world. That message has arrived in 2007!

Coal industry could face bleak future in global warming fight

The coal industry faces a bleak future unless ways are developed on a commercial scale to capture and store carbon dioxide in the campaign against global warming, according to a study released Wednesday.

Community Supported Energy Offers a Third Way

Although we have the necessary resources and technology to meet most of our energy needs in the future with renewable energy, until fairly recently one key strategy has, for the most part, been overlooked in North America. This strategy involves the cooperative or collaborative installation and ownership of renewable energy projects at the local, community level.

Could Crazy Technology Save the Planet?

Crazy-sounding ideas for saving the planet are getting a serious look from top scientists, a sign of their fears about global warming and the desire for an insurance policy in case things get worse.

How crazy?

Current Use-- PV in the Home

Q: How about some information on current uses of photovoltaics for the home? -- J.S., Lewes, DE

Democrats in Congress Push Measures To Curb Global Warming

Ecuador intends to return to OPEC membership-- Correa

Ecuador intends to rejoin OPEC as a full member, Ecuador's President Rafael Correa told reporters Wednesday.

Electricity from the sea

EPA Leads U.S. Delegation to the G8+5 Environmental Ministers Meeting

U.S. EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson will lead the U.S. delegation to the G8+5 Environment Ministers Meeting in Potsdam, Germany, March 15-17. The participants will discuss climate change and biodiversity.

EPA to Revise Definition of Solid Waste

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has proposed to modify the definition of solid waste rule to streamline regulation of hazardous secondary materials. The proposed rule would provide for the recycling of such materials as solvents, metals, and certain other chemicals.

Ethanol Picks up the Pace

In his State of the Union address, President Bush said America should produce 20 percent of its energy from renewable sources while corn-based ethanol and other bio-fuels would also be used to displace some imported oil.

Europeans support greater action on energy and climate change

Countries in Europe should set a minimum percentage for the share of renewables, according to 83% of respondents in a Eurobarometer opinion survey.

Feds crack down on Kentucky power plant

A coal-fired power plant in central Kentucky could be shut down if the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency prevails in a lawsuit filed Monday in federal court in Lexington.

Few glitches after daylight saving shift

No major disruptions were reported due to daylight saving time starting earlier than usual on Sunday, though some people are experiencing technology glitches.

Finnish Neste Oil in JV deal to produce biofuel from wood residue

Finland's Neste Oil Friday said it had signed an agreement with Stora Enso, an integrated paper, packaging, and forest products company, to jointly develop technology for producing new-generation biofuels from wood residues.

Future of 'Clean Coal' Power Tied to (Uncertain) Success of Carbon Capture and Storage

A new report confirms that coal has a large role to play in meeting the world's energy demands, but to avoid runaway climate change, technologies to sequester its carbon need to advance quickly

Geologists Troubleshoot Silica Problem at Geothermal Plants

In the debate over [renewable] energy resources, geothermal technology has received scant media attention. Advocates call it one of the cleanest, sustainable energy resources available. However, steep construction, equipment and drilling costs have prevented more widespread development of geothermal technology. An Ohio University hydrothermal systems expert is working to change that.

Giant Cold Water Eddy Off Sydney Lowers Sea Level

Australian oceanographers have discovered a giant cold water eddy off Sydney which has lowered sea levels almost one metre and impacted a major ocean current.

Global Warming Affecting Investors' Decisions

Gold heading for a 'choppy' day-- analyst

Another burst of market instability in the US overnight, brought about by concerns over weakness in the US housing sector, prompted at least one analyst to predict a fairly unstable day for gold.

House Approves Great Lakes Restoration Bill

Decades of dumping raw sewage into the Great Lakes have put them at great risk. We applaud the House of Representatives for approving HR 720, which will fund the most critical part of the effort to clean up the Great Lakes. Clean water is essential to public health and the environment, and the recent House action puts us one step closer to cleaning up the mess.

Hydrogen is Already Having an Impact on the Automotive Market

Despite commercial deployment being at least two decades away, hydrogen powered vehicles are already having an impact on today's automobile market. This is one of the conclusions of a report published this week by Cambridge, UK based analysts CarbonFree.

Japanese operator agrees to shut down nuclear reactor for inspection after cover-up

A nuclear power plant operator agreed on Thursday to shut down a reactor in central Japan for inspections after it acknowledged a cover-up of an uncontrollable nuclear chain reaction eight years ago, raising concerns about nuclear safety.

Legislator Touts Nuke Bill, But Industry Remains Noncommittal

California Assemblymember Chuck DeVore (R-Irvine) has introduced legislation that would repeal California's ban on building nuclear power plants, claiming it is the only power source available that can bring reliability to the grid and help reduce greenhouse-gas emissions.

Loan problems in U.S. rattle Europe markets

European stocks fell Monday after four straight sessions of gains, as New Century Financial, a U.S. lender specializing in high-risk home loans, said it lacked cash to pay its creditors, rattling investor confidence.

Make Money and Save The Planet, Carbon Traders Say

Trade in permits to emit greenhouse gases is booming, doubling to more than 20 billion euros (US$26 billion) last year and throwing a spotlight on the role big business can play in fighting climate change.

Market for clean energy will reach around $230 billion within decade

Global revenues from clean energy will increase to US$226.5 billion by 2016, up from $55 billion last year.

Massey wins Goals silo decision, but W.Va. DEP may appeal ruling

Massey Energy is claiming that the West Virginia Surface Mine Board's decision to allow it to build a second coal-storage silo near an elementary school is a good one for the environment.

NCEP recommends 50% allocation of GHG allowances to industry

An expert commission is recommending that a national climate-change policy should contain an emissions trading scheme that allocates 50% of its total emission allowances to industry, a move the group thinks would advance a consensus to cap greenhouse gas emissions.

Oil holds near $58 after supply report

Crude stockpiles rise and gasoline stocks drop less than expected, offsetting each other to keep prices near the low end of multi-week range.

Oil market doesn't need any more supply from OPEC for now-- Libya

The world oil market does not need additional OPEC oil supply for the time being, Libya's top oil official said Wednesday.

OPEC Frets Over Climate, Looks to Carbon Capture

OPEC is concerned about climate change and hopes that new technology to capture and store carbon will succeed in helping to secure energy supplies and clean up the environment, the group's president said on Thursday.

Out There

“Time and time again,” Smoot shouted, “the universe has turned out to be really simple.”

Perlmutter nodded eagerly. “It’s like, why are we able to understand the universe at our level?”

“Right. Exactly. It’s a universe for beginners! ‘The Universe for Dummies’!”

Philippines Says El Nino Over, Watching for La Nina

The drought-causing El Nino weather pattern has receded, but its flip side, La Nina, might return and affect the Philippines, a senior meteorologist said on Wednesday.

Popularity of alternative fuel cars surprises automakers

About 10.5 million alternative fuel automobiles are now traveling America´s roads, according to an automotive manufacturing trade group.

That includes 1.5 million alternative fuel vehicles that were sold in 2006, the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers said.

Quote of the Day 031607

"The Iranian nation possesses needed nuclear fuel cycle and will not retreat on that."
Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said on Friday. Ho vowed that his nation would not halt the progress of its sensitive nuclear program as world powers agreed on new sanctions on Iran, the semi-official Fars news agency reported.

"However, we expect crude prices to remain at high levels as OPEC is expected to take action for favorable price levels."
Fumiaki Watari said in a statement, president of the Petroleum Association of Japan. They expect OPEC's decision on Thursday to maintain current oil output at 25.8 million b/d to have a limited impact on oil prices.

Radioactive waste company plans IPO

The company uses technology that reduces waste to 4 percent of its original volume. The process transforms waste into black glass that looks like volcanic rock and can be used as a base for asphalt roads.

Refiner to Pay $2.2 Million for Environmental Violations

Williams Refining Co., the former owner and operator of a Memphis, Tenn., petroleum refinery, has agreed to pay $2.2 million in civil penalties to resolve allegations that the company violated the Clean Air Act (CAA), the Justice Department and the Environmental Protection Agency announced.

Renewable Resource Push Gets Stronger

"Energy drives our entire economy," said Nick Rigas, the director of the South Carolina Institute for Energy Studies at Clemson University. "Let's face it, without energy the whole economy and economic society we have set up would come to a halt."

Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 031607

The geomagnetic field was quiet to unsettled. Solar wind speed remains elevated at approximately 600 km/s. The greater than 2 MeV electron flux at geosynchronous orbit reached high levels today.

Ritter backs doubling renewable energy standard

DENVER-Gov. Bill Ritter on Tuesday urged lawmakers to require most utilities to increase their use of renewable energy, saying the "new energy economy" would help rural economies and the environment.

Russia says Iranian payment delays may cause 'irreversible' damage to nuclear plant construction

The Russian state-run company building a nuclear plant in Iran warned Wednesday that Iranian payment delays may cause "irreversible" damage to the project - another strong signal of Moscow's annoyance with Tehran.

Russia to produce 80 million mt a year in East Siberia by 2025

Russia expects to pump some 40 million mt/year of crude from currently undeveloped fields in East Siberia by 2015 and raise the output further to 80 million mt/year by 2025, according to the industry and energy ministry in a statement posted on its website Wednesday.

Russia, Bulgaria, Greece ink Burgas oil pipeline deal

Russia, Bulgaria and Greece Thursday signed a long-awaited deal to build the Burgas-Alexandroupolis oil pipeline to export Russian oil via Bulgaria and Greece bypassing the congested Turkish straits.

S. Carolina Considering Wind Power

The result: a clean-burning fuel source that is entirely homegrown.

SAFE Energy Act of 2007 Unveiled

The Energy Security Leadership Council, a group of U.S. business executives and retired military officers that seeks to reduce U.S. oil dependence to improve economic and national security, joined Sen. Byron Dorgan (D-ND) and Sen. Larry Craig (R-ID) on Capitol Hill yesterday to unveil the SAFE Energy Act of 2007.

Scotland to install world's largest wave farm

The world's largest wave farm will be built off the Scottish island of Orkney, at a cost of £10 million.

Senators introduce mercury-monitoring bill

One Republican and two Democratic senators have introduced legislation that they say will "create a comprehensive new program" to measure mercury levels nationwide.

State RPS Policies-- Projected Costs & Benefits for the U.S.

While state-level renewables portfolio standards (RPS) have become important drivers for renewable energy in the U.S., the adoption of these policies often hinges on debates over expected costs and benefits. Many state-level studies have been conducted to forecast these potential impacts, but the methods and assumptions used by these studies vary.

Study Examines Terror Risks on Waterways

Fire from a terrorism attack against a tanker ship carrying liquefied natural gas could ignite so fiercely it would burn people one mile away, according to a congressional study.

Study Shows European, Russian Pollution Sullies Arctic

Pollution from Europe and Russia is heading to the Arctic, adding to the potential for more warming around the North Pole, researchers reported Thursday.

Sustainable Power Corp. Featured in Interview at WallSt.net

As part of a larger effort to raise awareness of technologies intended to meet or exceed Congressional directives on green energy adoption, Mr. Davis participated in the interview introducing the company's short term milestones and achievements to date.

Texas Senate OKs three TXU-related bills; PUC gets deal authority

The Texas Senate on Thursday unanimously approved three bills that could complicate -- or even threaten -- the $45 billion plan by private equity firms Kohlberg Kravis Roberts and Texas Pacific Group to buy TXU.

The Shifting Dynamics of Energy

For two days each year, executives, investors and regulators from around the globe join Deloitte's professionals for an in-depth analysis of key developments in the global and domestic energy markets.  Presenters come from a cross-section of the world's energy industry, and the conference topics are of keen interest to energy management and boards of directors.

The Truth about Europe's CO2 Emission Figures

Reducing the emission of greenhouse gasses, in particular CO2, is crucial in the fight against global warming. What are the real figures we are dealing with?

This Was World's Warmest Recorded Winter, U.S. Government Says

This has been the world's warmest winter since record-keeping began more than a century ago, the U.S. government agency that tracks weather reported Thursday.

Time Running Out for Post-Kyoto Climate Deal - Germany

Germany's environment minister said on Thursday that governments around the world must agree before the end of the year on a plan to negotiate an extension of the Kyoto Protocol on cutting greenhouse gas emissions.

Trichet on the State of the European Central Bank

The following is an introductory statement by Mr Jean-Claude Trichet, President of the European Central Bank.

TXU Kicks Up Some Dust

Two weeks ago, TXU Corp. stirred up the investment and utility community when it announced it had come to terms on a $45 billion private equity buyout of the company. If completed, the transaction would be the largest private equity buyout to date and bolster the growing trend of private investment flowing into the electric utility industry.

U.S. Aims to Accelerate Phase Out of Ozone Damaging Chemicals

The United States has submitted a proposal to adjust the Montreal Protocol, accelerating the phase-out of ozone damaging chemicals. The proposal includes four elements that can be considered individually or as a package:

U.S. coalition releases 35 recommendations to increase green share to 25%

A broad alliance of energy, environmental, agricultural, business and labour groups has released a set of specific recommendations to source 25% of U.S. energy from renewables by 2025.

U.S. Senator Bingaman Outlines Energy Committee Agenda at Platts Energy Podium

U.S. Senator Jeff Bingaman, chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, told a standing-room only Platts Energy Podium event in Washington on Monday that his committee would focus on six key legislative issues, beginning with resolution of offshore leasing disputes, climate change legislation, and energy technology policy.

US climate change skeptic urges industry to oppose carbon cap

The US coal and power industries as well as other sectors are getting the wrong advice when they are told they need to shape greenhouse gas trading legislation, a leading climate change skeptic said Wednesday.

US Economic Update 031407

US Retail Sales Disappoint

The advanced report on retail sales showed a feeble 0.1% gain in February, disappointing forecasts for a 0.3% increase. The weakness was fairly widespread with falling sales for electronics, furniture and clothing. Higher gasoline prices boosted sales at service stations, while sales of motor vehicles and parts were also firmer.

US gasoline prices to increase to attract European imports-- EIA

Stronger crude oil prices, increased gasoline demand, falling gasoline imports and both planned and unplanned refinery maintenance have caused gasoline prices to increase by record levels since mid-January, the US Energy Information Administration said Monday, adding that the price gains will likely continue until US prices are high enough to attract "significantly higher imports."

US House Won't Act On Climate Change Bill Until Fall-Boucher

The U.S. House of Representatives is unlikely to act on any legislation that addresses climate change until the fall, House energy subcommittee chief Rick Boucher said Wednesday.

US Mortgage Rates Flat This Week 031607

Freddie Mac yesterday released the results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey (PMMS) in which the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) averaged 6.14 percent with an average 0.4 point for the week ending March 15, 2007, unchanged from last week when it averaged 6.14 percent.

US senators seeks DOE study of ethanol pipeline feasibility

US Senators Tom Harkin of Iowa and Richard Lugar of Indiana Tuesday introduced legislation directing the US Energy Department to study the feasibility of transporting ethanol by pipeline from the Midwest to the East and West Coast.

US Urged to Bury Carbon Dioxide From Coal

Top coal-burning countries like the United States should start burying carbon dioxide emissions from power plants as a wider crackdown on greenhouse gases looks increasingly likely, according to a study.

US Weather Commentary 031607

Wal-Mart plans ´green´ scorecard for electronics suppliers

Wal-Mart Stores Inc. will use a scorecard to evaluate its consumer electronics suppliers as part of the company´s goal to sell sustainable electronics.

Warning to homeowners as the green vision is unveiled

LONDON-  Homeowners who refuse to make their properties energy efficient will face financial penalties under drastic government plans to transform Britain into the world's first 'green' economy.

What's Moving the Oil Markets 031607

•The ongoing divergence between Brent and WTI futures continues to surprise the market. With the Brent/WTI spread for April in the past few days going through the roof, the situation for May is not much different. The current spread has already broken through the $3/b mark, which is regarded as highly unusual by market participants.

•-"The main reason for WTI's weakness is just that there is too much crude around in the midwest of the US, around Cushing.

•From a fundamentals point of view, little has happened to surprise the market this week.

World May Get Greener, Then Wilt, Due Warming

Global warming is expected to turn the planet a bit greener by spurring plant growth but crops and forests may wilt beyond mid-century if temperatures keep rising, according to a draft UN report.

March 13, 2007

A Year Later, Organic Just Mild, Not Hot

Organic was expected to be the next big food trend after Wal-Mart Stores Inc. and others threw their weight behind the products, but many executives said this week that overall, consumers are not yet clamoring for such fare.

Al Gore Seeks Earlier Start to Kyoto Pact Successor

Former U.S. Vice-President Al Gore called on Tuesday for Kyoto countries to bring forward by two years the start date of a new global warming treaty, to 2010, given the urgency of the global warming problem.

B.C. Premier to visit Schwarzenegger to discuss climate change issues

B.C. has promised to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by a third by 2020 and Campbell says he's looking for ways to hit those numbers and how the province might co-ordinate its efforts with California.

Biofuels Boom Raises Tough Questions

America is drunk on ethanol. Farmers in the Midwest are sending billions of bushels of corn to refineries that turn it into billions of gallons of fuel. Automakers in Detroit have already built millions of cars, trucks and SUVs that can run on it, and are committed to making millions more. In Washington, politicians have approved generous subsidies for companies that make ethanol.

Canadian wind power capacity to grow tenfold by 2015

Canada's installed wind power capacity is expected to grow nearly tenfold to 14 100 MW by 2015, according to a new study by Emerging Energy Research (EER).

China Helping the World Overcome Slump in US Creditworthiness

China's soaring growth is driving a major improvement in global creditworthiness and offsetting a surprising decline in the United States' credit rating, according to an exclusive survey by Institutional Investor magazine.

Climate Report Warns of Drought, Disease

The harmful effects of global warming on daily life are already showing up, and within a couple of decades hundreds of millions of people won't have enough water, top scientists will say next month at a meeting in Belgium.

Converting Waste Heat Into Power

ReGen Power Systems, LLC of Sanford, ME, is pioneering development of a 1 megawatt low temperature Stirling engine to convert excess process heat and steam energy at industrial plants into electricity.

Cool Earth Solar

Cool Earth Solar (CES) has developed an inflatable solar concentrator technology that slashes materials costs, making solar competitive with commercial electricity generation systems.

Court Ices Arizona Resort's Use of Snow from Sewage on Sacred Mountain

Using treated wastewater to make snow on a mountain sacred to American Indians in order to allow expansion at an Arizona ski resort would violate the tribes' religious freedom, a federal appeals court ruled.

Crude futures extend losses, dragged down by products

Global crude futures continued to fall Monday in thin volumes, extending large losses on Friday, led by a decline in product prices. Market participants also attributed some of the thin volumes being traded as a result of players examining the Forties program released Monday morning.  At 1128 GMT, the April ICE Brent futures contract changed hands at $60.65/barrel down 45 cents.

Cyclone Hits Australia's West Coast, 2 Dead

Two people were killed and up to 20 injured on Friday as a powerful tropical cyclone swept across Australia's northwest coast, tearing roofs from homes and sweeping into a mining camp with destructive winds.

Australia's West Hit by Second Cyclone

A cyclone struck Australia's northwest coast on Monday just days after a storm flattened homes and a mining camp in the same area, killing three people.

Daylight saving change proves thorny for businesses

With the early move to daylight saving time taking place this weekend, businesses not yet ready for the change are finding themselves in a race against the clock.

Delta Develops 35% Efficiency Concentrator Solar Cell Receiver Assembly

Delta Electronics Inc. announced that it has successfully completed the development of a certified and cost effective assembly process for the manufacturing of concentrator photovoltaic (CPV) modules, a new solar cell technology that boasts greater than 35% efficiency.

Dodge on the Need for Flexibility in Meeting Global Economic Challenges

The following are remarks by Mr David Dodge, Governor of the Bank of Canada, to the Calgary Chamber of Commerce.

Early daylight time backers tout energy savings, despite confusion

Americans were bracing for a confusing weekend that could spill over into the work week, resulting from an early change of clocks to daylight saving time. Daylight, or summer time, begins the night of March 11-12, instead of the first weekend of April, as has been customary.

Ecuador to begin 'aggressive exploration' program-- oil official

State oil company Petroecuador will begin an "aggressive exploration program" in order to halt production declines, the vice president of its production affiliate Petroproduccion, Oscar Garzon, said Friday.  "The oil situation is deplorable," Garzon said at a press conference.  "With aggressive exploration we can change the country's destiny."

Electric Car Maker ZAP Helps California Fleets Go Green

The XEBRA Sedan and Truck, now with a solar panel option, put out 90 percent fewer emissions, including those from power plants. ZAP says the solar panel enables short commutes on sunlight alone. Studies show EVs can offset about 10,000 pounds of CO2 per year in place of a 25-MPG gas car.

Environmentally Friendly Hydraulic Energy Storage

The development of new sources of renewable energy will benefit from the development of efficient and durable energy storage technologies. Electrical energy from ocean wave conversion, tidal power energy conversion and wind energy can occur at times when market demand for the energy is very low. Power can supplied to the market as demand for electric power increases. The ability to store large amounts of energy can also reduce the need to build an additional thermal power station.

EU Can Be Green Model for US, India, China - Merkel

The European Union's adoption of measures to fight climate change this week could set an example for the United States, China and India, German Chancellor Angela Merkel said on Saturday.

EU Heads Meet on Green Energy Strategy

German Chancellor Angela Merkel warned EU leaders Thursday that Europe has everything to lose if it does not move faster to cut carbon dioxide emissions and invest in more environmental energy sources.

Feds to move ahead on LNG projects despite Canadian opposition

Federal regulators plan to press ahead with their review of two proposed liquefied natural gas terminals on the Maine side of Passamaquoddy Bay despite Canadian objections.

GM Plans for Electric Car Production by 2010

General Motors Corp. announced that it is planning for the production of an all-electric car by 2010.

The company claims that the uncertainty surrounding the Chevrolet Volt, a concept vehicle GM unveiled in January, centered on whether lithium-ion batteries can be developed to power it economically and safely.

Going 'green' for energy

Those factors are part of what drove him recently to be one of the first to sign up on the town's GreenPower program.

Good News for Wind

Although it provides only a small fraction of U.S. power generation, wind capacity continues to grow by leaps and bounds. And a flurry of recent developments are blowing in wind's favor.

Govt announces 33% renewable energy target for 2020

Ireland---The Government has published an ambitious new target to have one-third of Ireland's electricity supply coming from renewable sources by 2020.

Haze Hits Northern Thailand, Disrupts Flights

Thick smoke from forest fires and slash-and-burn farming has spread over northern Thailand in the worst haze in 14 years, disrupting airline flights and irritating eyes and lungs, officials said on Monday.

House bill boosts wastewater funding, faces veto threat

While the bill would provide a huge benefit to wastewater system operators, the White House is threatening a veto if it passes the Senate and appears on President Bush´s desk.

Inbox 031307

Indian Point says leave radioactive waste alone

Owners of the Indian Point nuclear power station say the best way to deal with radioactive water leaking beneath the Westchester County plant is to leave the isotopes alone, and let nature take its course.

Jeffrey Automotive Introduces Plan for a ‘Do-It-Yourself’ Electric Car

Jeffrey Automotive announced plans for a build-it-yourself electric car. The company claims that the car can be built for $5,000 or cheaper, with running costs of less than 3 cents a mile.

Kuwait determined to expand capacity to 4 million b d-- official

OPEC producer Kuwait is determined to proceed with an $8 billion project to raise the crude oil production capacity of its northern fields to 900,000 b/d with the help of foreign oil companies as part of a plan to raise overall capacity to 4 million b/d by 2010...

Lawmakers join Al Gore's crusade to ease climate change

Al Gore and his "inconvenient truth" about global warming were mentioned both admiringly and derisively by state senators Saturday as they signed up Washington for the crusade to combat climate changes.

The Senate voted 35-13 for the Legislature's major global warming legislation of the session.

Man blames power plants for mercury emissions into river-- DTE Energy at center of charges

A Canadian environmentalist has filed charges in an Ontario court against DTE Energy, alleging the utility's mercury emissions have been violating Canada's Fisheries Act for two years.

March 2007 US Economic Outlook

Minister says France won't have to break up EDF, GDF-- report

France brokered a good energy deal at last week's European summit and as a result it won't be forced to break up state companies Electricite de France and Gaz de France, economy minister Thierry Breton said in an interview published Monday.

Most of Europe and North America Have Reversed Deforestation

Most countries in Europe and North America have reversed centuries of deforestation and are showing an increase in forest area, while most developing countries, especially in tropical areas, continue to experience high rates of deforestation, a U.N. agency said Tuesday.

New Mexico RPS-- 20% by 2020

New shield foiled Internet backbone attack

An attack in early February on key parts of the backbone of the Internet had little effect, thanks to new protection technology, according to a report released this week.

New Study Shows How Texas Can Meet Future Energy Needs with Energy Efficiency and Onsite Renewables

A new study released today shows that a combination of energy efficiency and onsite renewable energy resources, coupled with expanded demand response programs, can meet Texas’ growing electricity needs and save consumers money at the same time.

Nuclear fuel proposal gains traction with Idaho lawmakers

In 1995, Idaho signed an agreement with the federal government to try to bar the Department of Energy from shipping any more nuclear waste to the state.

Twelve years later, Idaho lawmakers are throwing their support behind a Bush administration proposal touted as a means to safely expand nuclear energy in the United States

Officials say no blackouts likely in California this summer

California should have enough power to avoid electricity shortages or rolling blackouts this summer, officials say, but they likely will ask residents to conserve when the temperature rises.

Philippines to Start Oil Recovery From Tanker

Work to recover more than one million litres of oil from a tanker that sank last August in the central Philippines will begin this week, an official with the Italian salvage operation said.

Power Companies Say Greenhouse Gas Bill Will Limit Supply

Death to greenhouse gases.

That could be the name given to proposed legislation that amounts to the most aggressive assault on greenhouse gas emissions in the state's history.

The proposal would gradually but ambitiously cut such gases, viewed by the majority of scientists as the primary factor behind global warming. The ultimate goal: Cut such emissions by 80 percent by 2050 from 2005 levels.

Quote of the Day 031307

"There are jitters ahead of the OPEC. People are looking for any bullish noises ahead of the meeting and trying to anticipate that. There is some nervous sentiment in the market, with potentially bullish news about US inventory data on Wednesday,"
A London-based broker said, commenting on strengthening global crude futures.

"The possibility of another crude oil production cut is little...If the OPEC members show a favorable commitment to the total two-phased 1.7 million b/d cut, without having it necessary to apply an additional cut in the March meeting, the oil market will enjoy a relative stability in 2007."
Hossein Kazempour Ardebili told students' news agency ISNA.

Renewables Build Head of Steam

Renewable energy programs are building a head of steam. The questions surrounding the movement are whether such initiatives are reliable, cost effective and environmentally beneficial or whether they are merely feel-good efforts.

Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 031307

The geomagnetic field was at quiet to active levels. The elevated conditions were due to the onset of a recurrent coronal hole high speed stream. Solar wind speeds have steadily increased to approximately 570 km/sec at the time of this writing.

Scientist Says Sea Level Rise Could Accelerate

Data from satellites is showing that sea-level rises and polar ice-melting might be worse than earlier thought, a leading oceanographer said on Monday.

Senator Bingaman to offer 'improved' climate bill in April

US Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Chairman Jeff Bingaman, Democrat-New Mexico, said Monday that he hopes to offer an "improved" climate change bill in April, with a stronger greenhouse gas reduction and a possibly higher safety valve price on carbon dioxide.

Senator Collins To Introduce Mercury Legislation

Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) announced she will introduce the bipartisan "Comprehensive National Mercury Monitoring Act" on Monday. This legislation would create a comprehensive new program to measure mercury levels across the United States. The legislation is cosponsored by Senators Joseph Lieberman (D-CT) and Hillary Clinton (D-NY).

Senator says climate bill unlikely without Bush support

Democrats running Congress will likely not be able to pass climate legislation with mandatory limits on "greenhouse" gases without help from President Bush, the chairman of the Senate's energy panel said Monday.

Sobering News on Global Warming Requires Immediate Action

A new report from the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) issued two weeks ago provides a sobering assessment of the impact global warming could have on the climate and has prompted government officials, environmentalists, and even some of the most skeptical conservatives to sit up and take notice.

Solar Demand to Triple By 2010

THE MARKET FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC modules that convert the sun's energy into solar power is expected to hit $1.3 billion by the end of the decade, according to a study by the Freedonia Group, Inc. This is more than three times the level

Strapped for Energy, Chile Looks at Nuclear Option

Burgeoning demand for electricity and steeper prices for natural gas imports are prompting Chile to consider nuclear power to address an energy shortfall that seems certain to intensify.

Study Finds Efficient Methods Could Bail Out Biofuels

A new, more efficient method for manufacturing biofuels could generate enough fuel to supply the entire U.S. transportation sector while sharply reducing the amount of raw material required to make it, researchers said Monday.

UK set to miss 2010 renewables, CO2 reduction targets-- Cam Econ

The UK is set to miss government targets of producing 10% of electricity from renewables by 2010. And its target of cutting carbon dioxide emissions by 20% by 2010 seems, on current policies, to be unlikely to be met even by 2020.

US House leaders name members to select panel on global warming

US House leaders Friday named members to the first Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warming which Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Democrat-California, created earlier this year to drive a bill this year to address climate change.

Va. Run Tells FERC Its Pipeline Woes

The mood in the room was somewhat tense but restrained as more than 350 people packed the Virginia Run Community Center last Friday. Residents voiced their concerns over Williams/ Transco’s proposal to build a large, above-ground natural gas pipeline facility in Virginia Run — a move that could affect 1,400 families.

Western railroads' PRB movements reach 35 mil. short tons in Feb.

Union Pacific and BNSF Railway moved almost 35 million short tons of Powder River Basin coal in February, equal to a 4% increase over the same month a year ago.  The volumes could have been even higher if not for the difficult weather conditions that affected the railroads during the month, the carriers told Platts.

What's Moving the Oil Markets 031307

•Global crude futures strengthened Tuesday as market participants looked ahead with some uncertainty at the prospect of US stock data and an OPEC meeting in Vienna on successive days later this week. At 1140 GMT, the April ICE Brent contract changed hands at $61.45/barrel up 71 cents.

•"There are jitters ahead of the OPEC," said a broker. "People are looking for any bullish noises ahead of the meeting and trying to anticipate that. There is some nervous sentiment in the market, with potentially bullish news about US stock data on Wednesday." This reverses four days of consecutive losses for crude futures on the back of weaker product prices.

•Earlier comments by OPEC appear not to have allayed this uncertainty in the market.

World oil output falls to 85.5 million b d in February-- IEA

The International Energy Agency Tuesday kept its key forecasts for world oil demand and the 'call' on OPEC crude this year unchanged but said a recent sharp fall in oil stocks suggest a tighter oil market in the coming months.

Would-be TXU buyers say they plan to build two IGCC plants

Texas Energy Future Holdings, the holding company formed by Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. and Texas Pacific Group to buy Dallas-based energy company TXU Friday said it had begun the planning process for two integrated gasification combined-cycle commercial demonstration plants in Texas.

March 9, 2007

55 new members sign on to EPA voluntary program

Fifty-five new facilities have joined the National Environmental Performance Track, bringing the total number of members to 470.

The partnership program, organized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, recognizes facilities that set three-year goals for continuous improvements in environmental performance beyond their legal requirements and publicly reported results.

Australia-- Renewable Energy Opportunities Down Under

Why should U.S. companies be looking to invest in Australia's renewable market? Australia is one of the very few developed nations that has not ratified the Kyoto Protocol. However, the Australian stance toward Kyoto does not indicate a lack of interest in, or market for, renewable energy products or services within Australia.

Barnwell Defends Nuclear Waste Site

In this rural county beset by high unemployment, the day when the local nuclear-waste landfill closes its doors to nearly all debris will be no cause for celebration.

Bernanke on Globalization and US Monetary Policy

The following are remarks by Mr. Ben S Bernanke, Chairman of the Board of Governors of the US Federal Reserve System, at the Fourth Economic Summit, Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research.

Big homebuilders lag on green building

Green building as a cause has united disparate parties from environmental groups to big business to policymakers, but one key industry has struggled to react to the change in public sentiment.

Biologists Try to Solve Duck Die-Off

DENVER -- State and federal biologists have ruled out several causes in the deaths of 850 ducks this winter and were still trying to figure out how they died.

Biomass and wind would benefit from federal standard in U.S.

Biomass and wind would benefit most from a U.S. clean energy portfolio standard, according to an assessment from the Department of Energy.

Brazil, US say to jointly promote ethanol use in other nations

US President George W. Bush and Brazilian counterpart Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said a new agreement their countries signed Friday to cooperate on biofuel development should create a significant shift in the world's energy usage as nations around the globe seek alternatives to fossil fuels.

Bright idea taking hold in state

Incentives inspire more customers to harness energy, savings from sun.  Every time the sun shines, Steve Schutz sees the plants in his greenhouse and the refund checks on his utility bill grow.

Britain Pushing for Security Council Climate Debate

Britain is pushing the UN Security Council to discuss climate change to try to highlight its potential threat to global stability, government officials said on Thursday.

Chirac - EU Renewables Goal Must Include Nuclear

Any binding European Union target for renewable energy sources must take account of the role of nuclear power and clean coal in national energy mixes, French President Jacques Chirac told EU leaders on Thursday.

Clean Energy Performing Well

America's twin desires to breathe clean air and to break its addiction to oil are accruing to the benefit of clean energy companies. The public market fund-raisings for such initiatives hit $10.3 billion in 2006, says Clean Edge. That's up from $4.3 billion in 2005.

Climate is Big Issue for US Hunters, Anglers

As the snow melts from the towering peaks in the distance, Culebra Creek runs fast and the trout are biting. But Van Beecham, a fourth generation fishing guide, is uneasy.

Congress Going Solar?

In the 109th Congress' final hours last December, it passed legislation extending the federal solar tax energy credits through 2008 (see "Green Design on a Roll," feature sidebar, January/ February 2007). The Solar Energy Industries Association was cautiously optimistic about the one-year extension under the Tax Relief and Health Care Act of 2006, but warned that it was not enough incentive to spur real growth in solar energy. Instead, the group is pushing for an eight-year extension which it hopes will find favor with the Democrat-controlled 110th Congress.

Conn. lawmakers mull energy reform bill

There is agreement at the state Capitol these days about the need to find ways to conserve electricity, encourage energy efficiency and promote renewable forms of energy such as solar and wind.

Conservation Group Urges CA Legislature To Use Bond Money On Congestion, Pollution Problems

Sacramento, CA — Today, leading national conservation group Environmental Defense urged the state legislature to incorporate environmental performance into transportation projects funded by bond money.

Crackpots and Genius

New energy pioneers are often also involved in pushing the envelop in other areas of life.  Such involvement should not be shunned but should serve as a sign that someone is cut out to launch a revolutionary technology -- practiced at withstanding the heat.

DOE's goal-- Suite of CO2 technologies by 2012

The Department of Energy's long-term goal is to capture 90% of carbon dioxide emissions, sequester 99% of the CO2 with no more than a 10% increase in the cost of energy services by 2012, and have a portfolio of technologies ready for the market after 2012.

'Don't Discuss Polar Bears,' Says U.S. Memo to Scientists

Polar bears, sea ice and global warming are taboo subjects, at least in public, for some U.S. scientists attending meetings abroad, environmental groups and a top federal wildlife official said Thursday.

Environmental activists called this scientific censorship...

Duke Energy and Federal Government Reach Agreement on Used Nuclear Fuel Storage Costs

Duke Energy Carolinas and the U.S. Department of Justice have reached a settlement resolving Duke Energy's used nuclear fuel litigation against the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). The agreement provides for an initial payment to Duke Energy of approximately $56 million for certain storage costs incurred through July 31, 2005, with additional amounts reimbursed annually for future storage costs.

Energy boss, Senate leader square off on Yucca Mountain

U.S. Energy Secretary Samuel Bodman said he plans to send a legislative proposal to Congress that would speed along development of the proposed Yucca Mountain repository in Nevada, which would permanently store high level radioactive waste.

His announcement March 6 brought quick reaction from Nevada´s two senators, who introduced their own legislation that would block the Yucca Mountain project.

Energy Department plans to spend $168M on solar power grants

Companies developing advanced solar power technologies could be eligible for up to $168 million in government funding, the Energy Department said Thursday.

Ethanol production and demand rise in the United States

Production and demand for ethanol in the United States hit record highs in 2006, according to data released by the Energy Information Administration and the Renewable Fuels Association.

Production of ethanol in 2006 reached 4.86 billion gallons, an average of 317,000 barrels per day or 13.3 million gallons per day. That´s an increase of 24.3 percent from 2005.

EU Drafts Plan to Battle Global Warming, Sets Binding Targets for Switch to Green Energy

European Union leaders drafted an agreement Friday promising to take the lead in fighting global warming by setting binding targets to cut greenhouse gases and ensure a fifth of the bloc's energy comes from green power sources, such as wind turbines and solar panels.

EU leaders back binding 20% renewables target in draft text

EU leaders have backed the European Commission's recommendation for a binding 20% EU renewables target by 2020 in the latest draft of European Council conclusions seen by Platts Friday.

The draft has been revised to include more detail on how such a target would be shared among the 27 EU member states

EU leaders meet to decide on new green energy strategy to fight climate change

German Chancellor Angela Merkel will push her European Union counterparts to go green on energy, urging them at summit talks Thursday to adopt tough measures needed to fight global warming and reduce Europe's dependence on oil imports.

Genome Sequencing Reveals A Key To Viable Ethanol Production

As the national push for alternative energy sources heats up, researchers at the University of Rochester have for the first time identified how genes responsible for biomass breakdown are turned on in a microorganism that produces valuable ethanol from materials like grass and cornstalks.

German company to build largest solar factory in U.S.

SolarWorld Group is building an integrated solar silicon wafer and solar cell production facility that will be the largest in the United States when completed in 2009.

The 500 MW factory is being built in Hillsboro, Oregon, at a cost of Euro 30 million following a recent investment of Euro 600 million by the Komatsu Group of Japan.

Germany's Gabriel sticks to pro-coal, anti-nuclear stance

German environment minister Sigmar Gabriel said the government was not doing enough to protect the climate. In an interview on German television Wednesday evening, the minister, who belongs to the anti-nuclear SPD coalition party, said he continued to support coal as a source for power generation.

Global Clean Energy Markets Expand to $55 Billion in 2006 and Projected to Exceed $220 Billion by 2016, Reports Clean Edge

Global clean-energy markets are poised to quadruple in the next decade, growing from $55.4 billion in revenues in 2006 to more than $226.5 billion by 2016 for four benchmark technologies, according to the sixth annual Clean Energy Trends report.

Halfway done-- Lawmakers say session `green, not red or blue'

Denver- Republicans, who are in the minority in both houses, point to their cooperation with Democrats on bills promoting renewable energy _ a key part of Democratic Gov. Bill Ritter's agenda.

For their part, Democrats say they're keeping their promise to stick to issues that are important to voters, even if it means supporting GOP bills.

House approves $1.7 billion in wastewater funding

The House voted overwhelmingly to provide $1.7 billion over five years for grants for municipalities to fix their aging sewer infrastructure and reduce overflows.

House bill targets Great Lakes pollution

A Michigan congressman has introduced legislation that would promote the cleanup and protection of the Great Lakes over the next five years.

House revives mine safety bill

A mine safety bill given up for dead last month by its sponsor has been resuscitated and could clear the House today, according to two coal-field lawmakers who have battled over the legislation.

How Do Costs Compare between Renewable and Traditional Energy Sources?

Q: Power utilities/producers continually plan to meet future power supply options using a mixture of various technologies. These technologies are evolving daily. The cost of renewable energy needs to compete with traditional options for utilities to buy-in. Can you tell me what the current cost range is (in $US/MWh) for the various power supply possibilities that exist today (wind, polygeneration, biomass, gasification, solar, large and small hydro, combined heat and power, natural gas combined cycle or cogen, coal, IGCC, nuclear, clean coal). I'm looking for power supply option comparisons. -- Dick H., Canada

How green is nuclear power?

Some call it a carbon-free alternative to fossil fuels, but others point to significant environmental costs.

Inbox 030607

I think the Democrats´ takeover of Congress is playing a role in the quickening pulsebeat of the dialogue about global warming. But I suspect the simple fact of mounting scientific evidence is playing a bigger part.

Keeping Coal Power, Burying the Gases-- Utilities' Answer to Global Warming Faces Obstacles in N.C

The quest to build an eco-friendly coal-fired power plant is going underground.

Merkel urges action to combat climate change ahead of EU energy summit

Chancellor Angela Merkel, speaking before an EU energy summit Thursday, said a commitment to use more renewable sources of energy and other urgent measures are needed to stop global warming.

"It's not five minutes to midnight, it's five minutes after midnight," she said Wednesday night on ARD television.

New Study Shows How Texas Can Meet Future Energy Needs with Energy Efficiency and Onsite Renewables

A new study released today shows that a combination of energy efficiency and onsite renewable energy resources, coupled with expanded demand response programs, can meet Texas’s growing electricity needs and save consumers money at the same time.

NHA Brings Newest Hydrogen Products, Vehicles and Fueling to San Antonio

For four days in March, the NHA Annual Hydrogen Conference and Hydrogen Expo US (www.hydrogenconference.org) will showcase the world's first hydrogen drive luxury performance car, the first fuel-cell powered fire response vehicle and new fueling capabilities among a dazzling array of other products in San Antonio, Texas.

Norway funds Euro 3.7 million for renewables

The government of Norway has pledged 30 million Kroner to accelerate clean energy supply in emerging markets.

Property Rights versus Public Good

Proposed natural gas pipelines are fueling a bitter debate over the proper balance between the "public good" and "property rights." The dispute pits landowners against pipeline companies as it relates to the laws that permit the confiscation of land for the purposes of building what is believed to be vital infrastructure.

Putting the Web to Work for Your Renewable Energy Business

The surge in public awareness about renewable energy comes at a time of rising energy costs and an improving political environment. The demand for solar, wind and efficiency systems is changing our industry -- and the companies that serve it. Selling renewable energy systems is going to get tougher as competition, and the sophistication of the competition, increases. That's why a well designed website is a key to success in this rapidly expanding market.

Quote of the Day 030807

"I think it is very likely that in the House of Representatives we will see legislation move during the course of this year...If you look at environmental legislation that has passed over the past 20 years, what you see is that the legislation passes when the states, the environmental community and industry all want legislation."
The US Congress is "very likely" to get started on crafting carbon emission cap-and-trade legislation in 2007, according to a former head of the US Environmental Protection Agency, Carol Browner, but any bill passed is unlikely to receive presidential approval.

Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 030807

The visible solar disk remains spotless. There were no flares during the past 24 hours.  The geomagnetic field is expected to be quiet for the next three days.

Senator calls for rerouting hazardous shipments

Sen. Joseph R. Biden Jr. has introduced a measure that would reroute hazardous chemical shipments away from population centers and other high threat areas. "Right now, we have 90-ton rail tankers carrying toxic chemicals right past some of our nation´s largest cities," Biden said. "We are vulnerable, and we know how to fix it."

Siemens readies fuel cell as source of power

Tidy, efficient electricity production will rule the world's energy future, and Siemens' solid oxide fuel cell is leading the way.

Small Businesses-- Big Payoffs in New Technologies for America

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently announced $2.52 million in contracts to 36 small businesses to develop new technologies that will protect human health and the environment.

Solar Energy Conversion Offers A Solution To Help Mitigate Global Warming

Solar energy has the power to reduce greenhouse gases and provide increased energy efficiency, says a scientist at the U.S. Department of Energy's Argonne National Laboratory, in a report published in the March issue of Physics Today.

Solar manufacturer to install Canada's largest solar system

The largest solar system in Canada will install 108 kW of solar panels on a federal building on the east coast.

State makes big fuss over local couple's vegetable oil car fuel

The agents informed the Wetzels that they were interested in their car, a 1986 Volkswagen Golf, that David Wetzel converted to run primarily from vegetable oil but also partly on diesel.

Success derails biofuels bandwagon

A global, government policy-fuelled rush to produce biofuels is backfiring as it pushes up costs and makes the environmentally-friendly alternative fuel far less competitive.  "The two key ingredients for a dynamic biofuel sector are sky-high crude prices and cheap feedstocks," said Raffaello Garofalo, head of the European Biodiesel Board (EBB).

The Wave Energy Machine

The energy manifested in waves is almost entirely the product of wind and other atmospheric effects and therefore ultimately comes from the sun.

U.S. agency downgrades renewables output estimate

The U.S. Department of Energy has downgraded its estimate for green power output to 2030.  Total power generation from renewables (including CHP/cogeneration and end-use generation) will grow by 1.5% per year

U.S. renewables standard offers mixed bag

"Renewable energy alone will not be enough to result in the large (greenhouse gas) reduction targets being proposed," said Joe Sannicandro, vice president for North American power for Edinburgh, Scotland-based Wood Mackenzie.

U.S., Japan Consider Co-Benefits of Domestic and Global Environmental Programs

"Climate change knows no borders. The U.S. and Japan play vital roles in global economic progress as well as global environmental protection'' said Bill Wehrum, EPA acting assistant administrator for Air and Radiation.

UK government criticized over its own carbon emissions

The UK government has been criticized for failing to reduce carbon emissions sufficiently from its own offices. A report from the Sustainable Development Commission Wednesday said that the government was "failing to meet carbon, waste and water targets."

US agency finalizes revised rules for onshore oil-gas activity

Major changes involve procedures for processing Applications for Permits to Drill; the use of Best Management Practices in lease development; and procedures for operating in split estate situations, where privately owned surface overlies federally owned minerals.

US CSB cites human error in Formosa vinyls explosion

The US Chemical Safety Board Tuesday issued its final report on the explosion and fire that destroyed the Formosa Plastics plant in Illiopolis, Illinois, on April 23, 2004, concluding that the accident occurred when an operator overrode a critical valve safety interlock on a pressurized vessel making polyvinyl chloride.

US Mortgage Rates at Lowest Levels This Year

US States Undercharge Polluters By US$50 Mln - Report

States from Alabama to Wyoming collected such low fees from major polluters that they may have shortchanged efforts to fight air pollution by up to US$50 million, an environmental group reported on Wednesday.

US Weather Commentary 030907

Utility May Have Violated Federal Law

At least 15 upgrades at power plants operated by the Board of Public Utilities of Kansas City, Kan., may have violated federal clean air laws, according to a confidential BPU document.

Waste storage plan not legal without US NRC Yucca nod-- Bodman

US Department of Energy Secretary Samuel Bodman Tuesday said that, under law, the agency cannot make plans to store nuclear waste at a centralized facility unless the Nuclear Regulatory Commission approves DOE's license application to build and operate the Yucca Mountain nuclear waste repository in Nevada.

What does Daylight Saving Time cost IT?

By time the clocks change, most of the patches will be installed and we'll probably have a Year 2000 type letdown–a lot of coverage and little real impact. However, the costs are very real.

What's Moving the Oil Markets 030907

•"There was a sell off in the Asian trading period and it has just bounced back a bit - otherwise it is very quiet," said a London-based broker.

•-The oil complex is still led by current demand for gasoline.

Wind Cuts Both Ways

Wind's prosperity has hit new heights. But, future growth is tied to overcoming concerns from citizens groups and regulators while continuing to produce power at less cost.

Wind wars-- Wind-power advocates square off over the pros and cons of wind as a major source of renewable energy

Wind energy is now the fastest growing source of electricity in the world and is widely recognized as a critical component of any strategy to address climate change and air pollution. In the year 2006 alone, global wind energy capacity grew by 32% -- representing a global investment of US$23-billion

Wolves, Moose in Decline on Michigan Island

Because of its isolation, the Isle Royale National Park is an ideal setting for wildlife study -- and researchers are noting a troubling development: the island's wolf and moose populations are declining.

The population of moose -- the wolves' primary food source -- is at its lowest since wildlife biologists began studying the two species' predator-prey relationship in the park 49 years ago.

March 6, 2007

A Review of El Nino and La Nina Projections

During winter El Niño episodes (top map) feature a strong jet stream and storm track across the southern part of the United States, and less storminess and milder-than-average conditions across the North. La Niña episodes (bottom map) feature a very wave-like jet stream flow over the United States and Canada, with colder and stormier than average conditions across the North, and warmer and less stormy conditions across the South.

Appeals court rules enviros can pursue suit against TVA

Tennessee Valley Authority can be sued for "a series of discrete violations" at its Bull Run power plant in Clinton, Tennessee, that operates without a permit limiting emissions as required under the Clean Air Act's New Source Review program, a federal appeals court ruled Friday.

APS Seeks Additional Renewable Energy

Arizona Public Service (APS) is requesting proposals for near- and long-term new sources of renewable energy that can be delivered to the company's electrical system. The Request For Proposal (RFP) includes solar, wind, hybrid wind and solar, biomass/biogas, landfill gas, hydropower, fuel cells that use renewable fuels and geothermal.

Asian Pollution Affects Pacific Storms

Pollution from Asia is helping generate stronger storms over the North Pacific, according to new research. Changes in the North Pacific storm track could have an impact on weather across the Northern Hemisphere. Satellite measurements have shown an increase in tiny particles generated from coal burning in China and India in recent decades, researchers report in Tuesday's issue of Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Brazil & U.S. Simpatico on the Importance of Ethanol for Future Fuel Independence

High gas prices, shrinking oil reserves, and the menace of global warming are driving interest in ethanol, an energy source produced from agricultural plant matter rather than fossil fuels such as oil and coal.

China adopts preferential tax to promote coalbed methane use

China has adopted new preferential tax policies for the utilization of coalbed methane (CBM) in the course of coal mining in an effort to encourage clean and safe production in the country...

Crude prices continue to retreat from last week's highs

5Mar2007--Crude prices continued their downward trend on Monday, extending a sell-off which started in late Friday, amid a lack of fresh bullish news combined with weaker technicals trading, brokers said.

Crude futures edge higher, consolidate above $60 barrel

6Mar2007--April crude futures on the New York Mercantile Exchange were holding above $60 per barrel in late afternoon Asian trade Tuesday, having settled $1.57 lower at $60.07/barrel in Monday's New York close.

Department of Energy Achieves Goal of 200 Energy Savings Assessments

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Andy Karsner today announced the completion of Energy Savings Assessments (ESAs) at 200 of the largest industrial facilities in the nation, identifying opportunities to save over 50 trillion Btus of natural gas - roughly equivalent to the natural gas used in 700,000 American homes.

Ethanol May Not Ease Global Warming, UN Says

It's too soon to say whether ethanol will help slow global warming, the head of the United Nations Environment Program said Monday, ahead of a meeting by the world's two biggest ethanol producers to discuss building a world market in the biofuel.

EU to boost renewables even without binding target-- EU source

The burden sharing needed to meet binding greenhouse gas emission cuts at EU level would boost renewables even without a separate binding target, a senior EU diplomatic source told journalists in Brussels Tuesday.

Finnish charges of illegal uranium mining under investigation

Alpo Kuparinen said the investigation involves companies that may have been doing test drilling for uranium in the Oulanka national park, where mining is prohibited.

Gasoline from New York, Europe en route to Montreal-- sources

Tankers carrying unleaded gasoline from New York and Europe continue making deliveries to Montreal to cover a supply shortfall, market sources said Friday.  As many as five clean tankers were en route to Montreal from Europe and an undetermined number from New York, buttressing the normal flow of gasoline from Europe

Geothermal system can work in single-family houses, specialists say

Geothermal heating and cooling isn't just for big commercial buildings and multifamily housing complexes, specialists say.

"One question I get asked all the time," said Mike Zimmerman, who has been designing geothermal systems for almost 10 years, "is, 'If it's that efficient, why isn't everyone doing it?' "

Groups give surprise green thumbs-up to TXU deal

They invited a couple of high-profile environmental groups to join them at the negotiating table.

Half of Companies Say a 24-hour IT Failure Would Threaten Their Survival

Forty-seven percent of the risk managers questioned for a new Economist Intelligence Unit survey into business resilience said that unplanned downtime of information technology (IT) systems lasting 24 hours or more could jeopardise the survival of their entire business.

Home Price Growth in 2006 Slowest Since 1999

Freddie Mac announced yesterday that its Conventional Mortgage Home Price Index (CMHPI) rose 4.9 percent in the fourth quarter 2006 on an annualized basis, up from a revised third quarter 2006 annualized rate of 4.4 percent.  Over the year home prices appreciated 6.1 percent, the slowest calendar-year growth rate since 1999 when prices increased 5.4 percent.

KCPL is taking Sierra Club to court over Iatan

In the latest round of the dispute between Kansas City Power & Light and the Sierra Club over the utility's Iatan 2 coal-fired project, KCPL filed a lawsuit in US District Court on Thursday seeking a declaratory judgment that the operation of the existing Iatan 1 plant has not violated the Clean Air Act.

Missing - A Huge Chunk of the Earth's Crust

A team of British scientists set sail on Monday to examine why a huge chunk of the earth's crust is missing, deep under the Atlantic Ocean -- a phenomenon that challenges conventional ideas about how the earth works.

NYMEX crude opens 58 cents higher, led by resurgent heating oil

6Mar2007--April crude futures on the New York Mercantile Exchange opened 58 cents higher at $60.65/barrel Tuesday, led by a resurgent heating oil market.

Quote of the Day 030607

"An exercise will be carried out for the aerial defence system installed around the Isfahan nuclear site today (Tuesday) from 10 am (0630 GMT) until 1 pm (0930 GMT)."
Iran is to test an air defence system around a key nuclear plant on Tuesday amid mounting international pressure over its atomic program, the state news agency IRNA reported. No reason was given for the decision to hold the exercise at the Isfahan uranium conversion facility in central Iran, which is surrounded by anti-aircraft guns to ward off enemy attacks.

"It's true that Chinese officials will be in Baghdad to discuss the exploration of the Ahdab oil field."
A Chinese delegation has arrived in Iraq to discuss the resumption of an agreement signed when Saddam Hussein was in power on the development of the Ahdab oil field in the south of the country, Chinese state media Oriental Morning Post reported Tuesday. The official also said Iraqi President Jalal Talabani and other high-ranking officials would visit China, with the specific date yet to be decided.

Report Finds Another Benefit to Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency programs can deliver savings during peak demand periods when the power grid is most stressed. Energy efficiency savings can also reduce the high costs of power during peak demands, which typically occur during hot summer conditions, according to a study by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE).

State Wields Bigger Budget to Push Energy Efficiency

Imagine that as the sun rises each day, it beams down on your solar-paneled rooftop.

Those panels, which are saving you plenty on your electric bill, didn't cost that much to put up because of tax rebates.

There's Change in the Air at Drax; Europe's Biggest Producer of Coal-Fired Power is Out to Prove That It Can Clean Up Its Act

The politics of energy are shifting. Nuclear power companies used to be prime targets of the environmental lobby. But that was before the world began worrying about carbon emissions. Now, green protesters have turned their ire on the coal industry.

Two oil giants plunge into the wind business

Shell, BP intend to play major role--Two of the world's leading oil producers have almost overnight joined some of the biggest players in wind power in the United States, accelerating a trend of large corporations investing in the rapidly growing alternative-energy field.

US power companies assail SO2 allowance restrictions in court

The US government violated its Clean Air Act by requiring, in a March 2005 rule, that power companies eventually submit more than one SO2 allowance for each ton of emissions, a coalition of electricity providers told a federal court Monday.

US RPS would reduce energy prices, not GHG emissions-- Report

A US renewable portfolio standard of 15% would drive down natural gas and electricity prices, but would not lead to a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions compared with current levels, according to a new report from consulting firm Wood Mackenzie.

US Senate energy panel tells budget panel it is split over GNEP

The US Senate Energy Committee is split on the Global Nuclear Energy Partnership, a Department of Energy initiative to develop new kinds of reprocessing and fast-reactor technologies, the panel's top two members told their counterparts on the Senate Budget Committee in a Wednesday letter released late Thursday.

Utilities panel says Duke can build just one coal generator

The commission said that Duke, based in Charlotte. failed to prove that it will need both units to meet increasing consumer demand. The brief “notice of decision” also indicated that Duke had been considering putting as much as half of the power generated by a two-unit facility on the wholesale market.

Duke must also invest 1 percent of its annual retail revenue from electricity sales in energy efficiency programs, the order said.

What's Moving the Oil Markets 030507

•Crude prices continued their downward trend on Monday, extending a sell-off which started on Friday, amid a lack of fresh bullish news combined with weaker technicals trading.

•At 11:12 GMT, April ICE Brent futures were seen at $61.02/barrel, down $1.05. April ICE Brent prices skyrocketed last week on bullish US product inventory data and increased tensions surrounding Iran, hitting this year's high at $62.49/barrel on March 1.

•"I think the losses are a follow through from Friday night, it looks like a bit of liquidation and correction across the commodity board is taking place

What's Moving the Oil Markets 030607

•Brent crude futures strengthened Tuesday, moving up away from the critical $60/barrel support level which was tested but not broken in Monday's sell-off.

•At 1140 GMT, ICE April Brent futures traded at $61.44/b, up 90 cents from Monday's close. On Monday, April ICE Brent futures went as low as $60/b before rebounding and settling at $60.54/b.

•"Yesterday was an awkward day--funds were liquidating their positions across all commodities, yet it still settled above $60/b," said a London-based broker. "We are looking for support from gasoline. RBOB needs to get back above $1.90/gallon, otherwise there won't be that much momentum."

•The role of gasoline offering support to crude was evident in levels of open interest in gasoline and crude futures.

March 2, 2007

Arctic Inuit Argue U.S. Pollution Devastates Centuries-Old Hunting Traditions

Simon Nattaq lost both feet to frostbite when his snowmobile crashed through the ice, made thin by rising Arctic temperatures.

All his gear plunged into the water too, leaving him stranded for two days. He now walks -- and still hunts -- with prosthetic feet, and believes God kept him alive to warn the world about global warming.

Arizona's First Hydrogen Fuel Cell Bus Tours State

The ECObus is the result of a partnership with Arizona Public Service (APS) company, and will begin its tour of Arizona at today's Clean Cities Coalition event at Wesley Bolin Memorial Plaza. During its statewide tour, the public is invited to step onto the zero-emission mobile learning center and experience hydrogen fuel cell technology.

Australia's First Wave Power Plant Ready to Roll

Australia's cities are drought-parched and its desert outback drenched by floods, but climate change has not yet killed the country's famed surf beaches, or their promise of clean eco-power.

Bankers wonder about future of plant projects in wake of TXU

The pledge by two private equity firms to reduce the number of coal plants they will build, if their effort to take TXU private comes to fruition, could have a significant impact on the number of coal plants built in the US in the coming years, according to an investment banker with experience in assessing coal plant prices.

BC Could Be Energy Self-Sufficient by 2025

The Canadian province of British Columbia could be energy self-sufficient by 2025 from renewable sources alone. Over that same period, greenhouse gas emissions could be reduced to well below year 2000 levels. These are the conclusions of a new report from the GLOBE Foundation which examines the feasibility of moving BC towards a sustainable energy future.

Calif. Bill Would Allow New Nuclear Power Plants

A California ban on new nuclear power plants is being challenged by a bill introduced in the state legislature by an Orange County Republican who said Wednesday the state needs the plants if it wishes to cut greenhouse gases and keep electricity affordable.

Car Mileage--  1908 Ford Model T - 25 MPG

Car Mileage: 1908 Ford Model T - 25 MPG
2004 EPA Average All Cars - 21 MPG

What happens when we compare technological advances in various fields over the last 50 to 100 years?

Climate Change as Dangerous as War - UN Chief Ban

Climate change poses as much danger to the world as war, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said on Thursday as he urged the United States to take the lead in the fight against global warming.

Coal Companies Take a Hit on TXU Buyout

Ripples from the $32 billion buyout of TXU Corp. reverberated from Dallas to Wall Street -- even St. Louis -- after an announcement that the utility would scrap plans for most of the 11 coal-fired power plants that it planned to build in Texas.

Crude futures consolidate gains above $62 barrel

Crude futures stabilized above $62/barrel on Friday but market players said they expect a small downward correction ahead of the weekend, led by NYMEX gasoline futures.

Duane Arnold reactor flaws found

Discovery of hairline cracks in welds on two recirculation nozzles on the nuclear reactor at Duane Arnold Energy Center will complicate a refueling outage at Iowa's only nuclear power plant.

Efforts continue to clean up Ohio River cumene barge spill

Efforts continue today to remove 164,285 gallons of cumeme from a damaged barge in the vicinity of Lock and Dam 52, near Brookport, Illinois, according to a US Coast Guard statement Thursday. It was estimated that approximately 10,300 gallons of cumene were released from a damaged cargo tank into the Ohio River on the afternoon of February 28.

Enriched Uranium Unearthed From German Man's Garden

A German man obtained enriched uranium and buried it in his garden, raising concerns about the security of Germany's nuclear reactors, the environment ministry in the state of Lower Saxony said on Thursday.

EU citizens view solar four times more favourably than nuclear

Solar energy is four times more popular than nuclear to the citizens of the European Union. Solar energy received a favourable vote from 80% of 19,000 respondents, with 14% expressing mixed views in a survey conducted for the European Commission. Nuclear had a 20% support level, with 36% balanced views and 37% opposition.

Extreme Efficiency – the New Paradigm Driver in Power Conversion Design

Engineers designing power converters have been hit in recent years by a plethora of new requirements, all concerned with efficiency. These have been concerned with efficiency performance over no-load, light-load, part-load and full load conditions, and over the full range of line voltages.

France Digs Heels in on EU Renewables Target

France dug its heels in on Thursday against setting a binding target for renewable energy sources in the European Union, setting up a potential summit clash with its closest ally Germany next week.

France has Warmest Autumn, Winter for Centuries

France recorded its warmest autumn and winter for several centuries, the meteorological office said on Thursday as the government warned it was worried about water supplies.

GE Announces New LED Technology

GE Consumer & Industrial’s Lighting Division announced advancements to the light bulb that potentially will elevate the energy efficiency of this 125-year-old technology to levels comparable to compact fluorescent lamps (CFL), delivering significant environmental benefits.

Global Warming a Hot Spot for Investors

Droughts. Hurricanes. Rising temperatures. Melting glaciers. In a world abuzz with talk about global warming, climate change is elbowing aside tech and biotech as the major investment theme of the future.

Global Warming Bill Advance; Clears Committee Despite Cost Concerns

An effort to keep global warming from swamping North Jersey and the rest of the state advanced in Trenton on Monday despite worries even from supporters about the costs of tackling the problem.

Governor Pawlenty signs strongest renewable energy requirement in the nation

Governor first outlined 25 x ’25 goal in 2006 State of the State, emphasized it again this year

Greenies in coal protest

In buyout, Texas utility would limit coal plants

A team of private-equity firms has proposed a $45 billion buyout of TXU on condition that the company, a Texas utility, abandon plans to build 8 of 11 coal plants and commit to a broad menu of environmental measures, according to people involved in the negotiations.

In D.C., Patrick backs Cape Wind

Gov. Deval Patrick emphasized his support for Cape Wind yesterday, saying the massive turbine project symbolizes his vision for a new environmental movement in Massachusetts.

"I used to work at Texaco," the Democratic governor said in a speech at a Washington hotel. "I can tell you from that experience that what you read about diminishing sources of foreign oil is not made up."

In green deal, private equity firms buy Texas utility

TXU, the largest power producer in Texas, said Monday that it had agreed to be sold to a group of private equity firms for about $32 billion in what would be the largest private buyout in U.S. corporate history if shareholders go along.

La Nina May Bring More Hurricanes Than Normal - NOAA

The return of a La Nina weather pattern this year could trigger a higher-than-normal number of hurricanes in the Atlantic Ocean, US government weather forecasters said Tuesday.

Maui Welcomes Plans for $61 M Biodiesel Plant

A new biodiesel plant scheduled to come online on the island of Maui in 2009 may one day run on Hawaii-grown feed stock such as local palm oil, jatropha, kukui nut, coconut or other oil rich crops. The plant, which is being developed by Texas and Arizona developer BlueEarth Biofuels, is expected to produce 40 million gallons per year of biodiesel in a continuous flow refining facility.

McGuinty Government Strengthens Energy System With More Green Power

The McGuinty government is increasing the amount of clean, green energy used to power Ontario's electricity grid with 22 new renewable energy projects awarded through the Standard Offer Program (SOP), Energy Minister Dwight Duncan announced today.

Merkel Urges Bold EU Climate Moves

Chancellor Angela Merkel urged EU leaders to approve bold steps to combat climate change at a summit next week, but said Germany was not prepared to shoulder the same heavy burden of emissions cuts as it has in the past.

More Wind Power Coming to Ontario

Schneider Power Inc., a leading Canadian owner and builder of renewable energy generation projects, announced today that it has launched the development and expansion of four new wind farms across the Province for a total capital cost of $90 million dollars.

New Economic News Causes Mortgage Rates to Slip

Freddie Mac yesterday released the results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey (PMMS) in which the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) averaged 6.18 percent with an average 0.4 point for the week ending March 1, 2007, down from last week when it averaged 6.22 percent.  Last year at this time, the 30-year FRM averaged 6.24 percent. 

Nuclear is 'absolutely needed' in the future UK energy mix-- IEA

Nuclear is "absolutely needed" in the future UK energy mix, International Energy Agency Executive Director Claude Mandil told a London press conference March 1.

Nuclear route possible for Georgia

Two South Carolina sites are in the running for a federal initiative that could send thousands of truckloads of nuclear waste through metro Atlanta.

PG&E Eyes Power Grid Plan to Boost Electric Cars

Pacific Gas & Electric Co. announced that it is considering a plan to charge fleets of battery-powered cars overnight with wind energy and to allow consumers to sell back some of the stored electricity during the day. In addition to reducing oil consumption and greenhouse gas emissions from standard cars, the plan could help stoke production of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles and give power managers more energy capacity on the grid for hot summer afternoons,

Polar Year Starts With Worries of Rising Seas

More than 60 nations started the biggest scientific investigation of the Arctic and Antarctic on Thursday amid new evidence that global warming is thawing polar ice and raising sea levels.

Renewables researcher says consistent policies are required

The use of renewable energy in the United States is “a matter of national will and leadership,” according to the head of the National Renewable Energy Laboratory.

Report of Solar-Geophysical Activity 030207

There were no flares during the past 24 hours. Solar wind speed remained elevated due to a coronal hole stream, but gradually declined during the past 24 hours. The greater than 2 MeV electron flux reached high levels during the past 24 hours.

Scotland expands wind capacity by 67% in one year

Wind energy capacity has increased 67% in the past 12 months in Scotland, according to the annual review by Scottish Renewables, the trade association for Scotland’s renewable energy industry.

Sen. Clinton proposes alternative energy fund

Sen. Hillary Clinton, D-N.Y., has renewed her call for creation of a Strategic Energy Fund to jumpstart research and investment in clean energy technologies to promote energy independence and improve the environment.

SMUD Waives Switch Requirement for Solar Systems to Make Solar Installations Easier

The Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) announced that it no longer requires an ac disconnect switch on inverter-based solar systems when the home or business has a self-contained electric meter. Most customers of the electric utility have this kind of meter.

Study-- Commuting is hazardous to your health

Diesel fumes pose a major health risk to commuters, according to a new report by the non-profit Clean Air Task Force.

Study Reveals Scope of Annual U.S. Data Center Energy Consumption-- 45 Billion kWh, Costing Nearly 3 Billion Dollars

Addressing the need for thorough, credible estimates on data center power use, the study found that in 2005, in the U.S. alone, data centers and their associated infrastructure consumed five million kW of energy, the equivalent of five 1,000 MW power plants.

Studying all sides of TXU's sale

Despite buyers' promises, critics not convinced

Commitments by the buyers of TXU Corp. to operate in a more environmentally conscious way and to cut retail prices didn't silence the utility's critics Monday.

Support for hydrogen power plant

THE government has fallen behind even the "toxic Texan", President George Bush, in backing moves towards new technologies to combat climate change, according to the SNP leader.

The Green Grid addresses energy efficiency in data centers

The Green Grid, a non-profit consortium dedicated to advancing energy efficiency in data centers and business computing ecosystems, today announced the completion of its formation, membership structure, technical charter, and made available three new white papers.

THE MARKET Oils supply the initial energy as blue chips edge towards 6500

A RAFT of robust corporate results underpinned a strong day of trading in London, helped by resurgent oil price that continued Friday's climb for much of yesterday.

Top nuclear engineer favors closing of Oyster Creek plant

New Jersey-  The state's top nuclear engineer, who has inspected the Oyster Creek nuclear power plant numerous times and has reviewed classified documents about its operation, says the Lacey plant should close after its operating license expires in two years.

TXU sale won't end coal plant controversy

The buyout of TXU by two private equity firms that have agreed to kill eight of the company's 11 proposed coal-burning power plants cools off the biggest environmental battle in Texas and could reposition the state in the national debate over how to curb global warming.

TXU's Twist

TXU will likely be the property of two private equity firms, which have offered a record-setting $45 billion. Despite the failings of some proposed mergers and especially those involving private investors, analysts don't expect regulators to reject this deal.

Uranium prices won't sink nuclear revival, says Exelon's Crane

Today's rising uranium prices are "not deterimental" to the future renaissance of nuclear power, said Exelon Nuclear President and Chief Nuclear Officer Christopher Crane...

US should lead global effort to handle growth of NOCs

Oil-consuming nations and the US in particular, should work harder to promote free trade and use multinational business frameworks as they adjust to an energy market dominated by a new breed of national oil companies in competition with the large international majors for control of world resources, according to a study published Thursday by Houston's Rice University.

US Weather Commentary 030207

What's Moving the Oil Markets 030207

•Crude futures stabilized above $62/barrel on Friday but market players said they expect a small downward correction ahead of the weekend, led by NYMEX gasoline futures.