Next Step Towards a Renewable Energy Future

Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar and Secretary of Energy Steven Chu announced the Draft Solar Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (PEIS), an extensive environmental analysis that identifies proposed "solar energy zones" on public lands in six western states.

The analysis concluded that the states of Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico and Utah are the most suitable for environmentally sound, utility-scale solar energy production. The Draft Solar Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement was formulated over the past two years as part of the Obama Administration's attempt to create effective foundations for developing renewable energy in the right way and the right places.

Secretary of the Interior Salazar said, "This proposal lays out the next phase of President Obama's strategy for rapid and responsible development of renewable energy on America's public lands. This analysis will help renewable energy companies and federal agencies focus development on areas of our public lands that are best suited for large-scale solar development. Our early, 'Smart from the Start,' planning will help us site solar projects in the right places, and reduce conflicts and delays at larger stages of the development process."

The "Smart from the Start" also sets standards for the new workers in the solar energy industry. A "smart" way to enter the industry is by receiving a quality solar education and training in solar panel installation. With the vast amount of land that is being allocated to the future of renewable energy, workers need to be prepared beforehand and have received NABCEP certifications in areas such as solar sales, solar photovoltaic (PV) installation, and solar panel installation.

Secretary of Energy Chu said, "Our country has incredible renewable resources, innovative entrepreneurs, a skilled workforce, and manufacturing know-how. It's time to harness these resources and lead in the global clean energy economy. Today's announcement is part of an integrated strategy to cultivate the entire innovation chain to create the jobs of the 21st century economy and to put America on a sustainable energy path."

In order to be a part of the renewable energy industry, workers need to be skilled in solar education. Those wanting to be solar sales professionals or solar PV installers must attend solar certification courses in order to be part of the skilled workforce Secretary Chu mentioned.

The Draft Solar Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (PEIS) analyzed the environmental, social, and economic impacts associated with solar energy development on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) administered areas in the west. The Draft Solar PEIS is now available in the Federal Register's Reading Room for a 90-day public comment period.

The American Institute of Renewable Energy (AIRE), a school specializing in solar training to produce a skilled workforce, encourages the public to read the PEIS. The initiatives taken by the federal government necessitates public opinion because utility-scale solar energy production sites will be built on US public lands.

"Public involvement has been a vital component in every step of the BLM's solar energy program," said BLM Director Bob Abbey. "The lessons learned from what we have done so far, plus the public input obtained during this current comment period, will help make all solar development resulting from this process 'Smart from the Start.'"

Under this proposal, the BLM would establish Solar Energy Zones (SEZ's). SEZ's are areas that have been identified as most befitting for development and those that contain the highest solar energy potential and fewest environmental and resource conflicts. Currently the BLM manages 120 million acres of public lands in the six western states identified by the PEIS.

The Department of Energy (DOE) is working for create a clean energy future while reducing green house gases. The American Institute of Renewable Energy (AIRE) provides certification courses in Solar Training to make the federal government's goals possible.

Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar and Secretary of Energy Steven Chu announced the Draft Solar Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (PEIS), an extensive environmental analysis that identifies proposed "solar energy zones" on public lands in six western states.


The analysis concluded that the states of Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico and Utah are the most suitable for environmentally sound, utility-scale solar energy production. The Draft Solar Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement was formulated over the past two years as part of the Obama Administration's attempt to create effective foundations for developing renewable energy in the right way and the right places.

Secretary of the Interior Salazar said, "This proposal lays out the next phase of President Obama's strategy for rapid and responsible development of renewable energy on America's public lands. This analysis will help renewable energy companies and federal agencies focus development on areas of our public lands that are best suited for large-scale solar development. Our early, 'Smart from the Start,' planning will help us site solar projects in the right places, and reduce conflicts and delays at larger stages of the development process."

The "Smart from the Start" also sets standards for the new workers in the solar energy industry. A "smart" way to enter the industry is by receiving a quality solar education and training in solar panel installation. With the vast amount of land that is being allocated to the future of renewable energy, workers need to be prepared beforehand and have received NABCEP certifications in areas such as solar sales, solar photovoltaic (PV) installation, and solar panel installation.

Secretary of Energy Chu said, "Our country has incredible renewable resources, innovative entrepreneurs, a skilled workforce, and manufacturing know-how. It's time to harness these resources and lead in the global clean energy economy. Today's announcement is part of an integrated strategy to cultivate the entire innovation chain to create the jobs of the 21st century economy and to put America on a sustainable energy path."

In order to be a part of the renewable energy industry, workers need to be skilled in solar education. Those wanting to be solar sales professionals or solar PV installers must attend solar certification courses in order to be part of the skilled workforce Secretary Chu mentioned.

The Draft Solar Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (PEIS) analyzed the environmental, social, and economic impacts associated with solar energy development on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) administered areas in the west. The Draft Solar PEIS is now available in the Federal Register's Reading Room for a 90-day public comment period.

The American Institute of Renewable Energy (AIRE), a school specializing in solar training to produce a skilled workforce, encourages the public to read the PEIS. The initiatives taken by the federal government necessitates public opinion because utility-scale solar energy production sites will be built on US public lands.

"Public involvement has been a vital component in every step of the BLM's solar energy program," said BLM Director Bob Abbey. "The lessons learned from what we have done so far, plus the public input obtained during this current comment period, will help make all solar development resulting from this process 'Smart from the Start.'"

Under this proposal, the BLM would establish Solar Energy Zones (SEZ's). SEZ's are areas that have been identified as most befitting for development and those that contain the highest solar energy potential and fewest environmental and resource conflicts. Currently the BLM manages 120 million acres of public lands in the six western states identified by the PEIS.

The Department of Energy (DOE) is working for create a clean energy future while reducing green house gases. The American Institute of Renewable Energy (AIRE) provides certification courses in Solar Training to make the federal government's goals possible.

Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar and Secretary of Energy Steven Chu announced the Draft Solar Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (PEIS), an extensive environmental analysis that identifies proposed "solar energy zones" on public lands in six western states.


The analysis concluded that the states of Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico and Utah are the most suitable for environmentally sound, utility-scale solar energy production. The Draft Solar Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement was formulated over the past two years as part of the Obama Administration's attempt to create effective foundations for developing renewable energy in the right way and the right places.

Secretary of the Interior Salazar said, "This proposal lays out the next phase of President Obama's strategy for rapid and responsible development of renewable energy on America's public lands. This analysis will help renewable energy companies and federal agencies focus development on areas of our public lands that are best suited for large-scale solar development. Our early, 'Smart from the Start,' planning will help us site solar projects in the right places, and reduce conflicts and delays at larger stages of the development process."

The "Smart from the Start" also sets standards for the new workers in the solar energy industry. A "smart" way to enter the industry is by receiving a quality solar education and training in solar panel installation. With the vast amount of land that is being allocated to the future of renewable energy, workers need to be prepared beforehand and have received NABCEP certifications in areas such as solar sales, solar photovoltaic (PV) installation, and solar panel installation.

Secretary of Energy Chu said, "Our country has incredible renewable resources, innovative entrepreneurs, a skilled workforce, and manufacturing know-how. It's time to harness these resources and lead in the global clean energy economy. Today's announcement is part of an integrated strategy to cultivate the entire innovation chain to create the jobs of the 21st century economy and to put America on a sustainable energy path."

In order to be a part of the renewable energy industry, workers need to be skilled in solar education. Those wanting to be solar sales professionals or solar PV installers must attend solar certification courses in order to be part of the skilled workforce Secretary Chu mentioned.

The Draft Solar Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (PEIS) analyzed the environmental, social, and economic impacts associated with solar energy development on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) administered areas in the west. The Draft Solar PEIS is now available in the Federal Register's Reading Room for a 90-day public comment period.

The American Institute of Renewable Energy (AIRE), a school specializing in solar training to produce a skilled workforce, encourages the public to read the PEIS. The initiatives taken by the federal government necessitates public opinion because utility-scale solar energy production sites will be built on US public lands.

"Public involvement has been a vital component in every step of the BLM's solar energy program," said BLM Director Bob Abbey. "The lessons learned from what we have done so far, plus the public input obtained during this current comment period, will help make all solar development resulting from this process 'Smart from the Start.'"

Under this proposal, the BLM would establish Solar Energy Zones (SEZ's). SEZ's are areas that have been identified as most befitting for development and those that contain the highest solar energy potential and fewest environmental and resource conflicts. Currently the BLM manages 120 million acres of public lands in the six western states identified by the PEIS.

The Department of Energy (DOE) is working for create a clean energy future while reducing green house gases. The American Institute of Renewable Energy (AIRE) provides certification courses in Solar Training to make the federal government's goals possible.

"make green a reality"  visit http://www.thesolarandwindexpo.com/

Treasurer McCord: PA Homeowners Can Finance 'Whole Home' Improvements Through Money-Saving, Energy Efficiency Loan Program

Pennsylvania Treasurer Rob McCord today announced new, innovative financing options available through the Keystone Home Energy Loan Program (HELP). Qualified Pennsylvania homeowners can now take advantage of lower-rate, fixed-term loans for whole home energy efficiency projects – upon completion of a home energy audit designed to identify the most effective energy conserving improvements in each home.


"Keystone HELP is a national model for sustainable lending to retrofit existing homes with efficient equipment," Treasurer McCord said. "We are adding this new financing option to an existing suite of loans to save homeowners money, conserve energy, and create demand for green-certified installers and manufacturers."

The new Conservation Audit and Performance Protocol (CAPP) Loans can be used for qualifying activities such as insulation and air sealing, as well as other ENERGY STAR improvements involving heating and cooling equipment. Unsecured loans up to $15,000 are available under CAPP for 3, 5, or 10 year terms at an interest rate of 2.99%, the lowest rate HELP has ever offered for unsecured loans.

Loans for single measure ENERGY STAR improvements remain available, at rates starting from 7.99%. Homeowners can also choose a low-interest secured loan of up to $35,000. These loans are offered at rates as low as 3.875% for 10, 15, or 20 year terms. The secured loan portion of the HELP program is supported by the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency.

This enhancement of the Keystone HELP program will encourage more comprehensive energy efficiency improvements by offering lower rates to homeowners who make multiple, whole home improvements based on the results of their home energy audit. This approach will lead to larger energy reductions and greater savings on energy bills for Pennsylvania homeowners.

"Energy conservation is the first step to energy independence," Treasurer McCord said. "The more we can do to encourage affordable energy efficiency, the closer we get to the world we all want – clean and less reliant on foreign and carbon-emitting energy sources."

Keystone HELP loans are available to one or two unit owner-occupied homes located anywhere in Pennsylvania. To be eligible for Keystone HELP loans, all audits, installation and other work must be performed by an approved contractor. Keystone HELP and the program administrator, AFC First Financial Corporation, maintain a network of over 1,600 approved contractors.

Created by the Pennsylvania Treasury and AFC First Financial Corporation of Allentown, Keystone HELP is an innovative, nationally recognized program that provides low-interest loans to homeowners for energy conservation improvements. Keystone HELP began offering loans with even lower interest rates in 2009, when Treasury partnered with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection to expand the program's impact by using funds appropriated under Pennsylvania's Alternative Energy Investment Act.

This latest HELP enhancement also continues Treasury's partnership with DEP. Treasury's investment will provide capital for the loans, which are also supported by funds granted to DEP under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

Keystone HELP has helped over 7,000 homeowners finance over $45 million in money-saving home improvements. Visit http://www.keystonehelp.com/ to learn more or apply for a loan.

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BOEMRE initiates leasing process for commercial wind development offshore Massachusetts

The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, Regulation and Enforcement (BOEMRE), in partnership with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, today announced it is publishing a Request for Interest (RFI) to gauge interest in future wind energy development offshore Massachusetts.


This is the first step under the “Smart from the Start” OCS renewable energy initiative recently announced by Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar.

It allows BOEMRE to identify priority Wind Energy Areas for potential development. Wind Energy Areas are offshore locations that appear most suitable for wind energy development. Data collected for these high priority areas will inform government and industry assessments and planning, and will promote greater efficiency in the siting and permitting process for offshore wind projects.

“BOEMRE has worked closely with Massachusetts officials and tribal representatives to facilitate the commercial leasing process for renewable energy development off the southern coast of Massachusetts,” said BOEMRE Director Michael R. Bromwich. “The Administration has expressed its commitment to putting our nation on the path to a renewable energy future, and BOEMRE will continue working to fashion an expedited but responsible process for leasing and permitting on the OCS.”

“The Request for Interest issued by the Obama administration today begins a process that will lead to up to 4,000 megawatts of wind energy installed far off our shores – enough electricity to power approximately 1.7 million households, and enough to take this new US industry from infancy to maturity,” Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Ian Bowles said. “Let there be no question that Massachusetts is, and will be, the nation’s offshore wind leader – spurring innovation, reducing costs, and creating jobs.”

BOEMRE will use industry responses to gauge specific interest in the commercial development of wind resources off the Commonwealth’s shores. If responses indicate that there is no competitive interest in this area, the agency may proceed with a noncompetitive lease process. Whether the leasing process is competitive or noncompetitive, it will include public participation as well as a thorough environmental review conforming to all applicable laws.

The Massachusetts RFI area was selected through consultation with the Massachusetts Renewable Energy Task Force, an intergovernmental coordination group led by BOEMRE. Task Force members include federal and state agencies, tribal governments, and local entities that have a role in permitting, reviewing or regulating resources or activities that are involved in energy development on the OCS.

The RFI area off the coast of Massachusetts is approximately 12 nautical miles (nm) south of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, and extends approximately 31 nm seaward, south to the 60 meter depth contour, then east approximately 65 nm, then north approximately 31 nm. The area is approximately 2,224 square nm and contains 321 whole OCS lease blocks as well as 163 partial blocks.

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2011 Will Be a Test of Electric Vehicles’ Commercial Viability, Says Pike Research

Electric vehicle (EV) market introductions will get into high gear in 2011, accompanied by the widespread arrival of charging station networks. During the course of this momentous year for the automotive industry, many consumers will form their early impressions of the EV driving experience. According to a new white paper from Pike Research, 2011 will serve as an important test of commercial viability for the new electric vehicles. The paper, which includes 10 predictions about the EV market in 2011, is available for free download on Pike Research’s website.


“The automotive industry is bedeviled by fundamental questions of how consumers will accept and use electric vehicles”

.“The automotive industry is bedeviled by fundamental questions of how consumers will accept and use electric vehicles,” says senior analyst John Gartner. “There is still a great deal of uncertainty about the issues of price sensitivity, range anxiety and the importance of charging station networks, the length of time required to charge EVs, and other important matters. These questions can only be answered through real-world experience that is gained from commercial launches. 2011 is the year in which many of these answers will come into greater focus.”

A few of Pike Research’s industry predictions include the following:

•“Range anxiety” will prove to be more fiction than fact.
•Automakers will get pushback from EV owners regarding the length of time it takes to fully charge a vehicle.
•Many EV charging stations will spend the majority of their time idle.
•The landscape for charging equipment will undergo a seismic shift as the category swiftly moves toward becoming a commodity market.
•The majority of people who drive a plug-in vehicle won’t own it.
•Fuel cell vehicles will be sold to fleets and consumers in small but growing numbers.

Pike Research’s white paper, “Electric Vehicles: 10 Predictions for 2011”, provides in-depth analysis of some of the most important topics facing the automotive industry as it works for the successful market introduction of EVs. Conclusions and predictions in this paper are drawn from the firm’s ongoing Clean Transportation research coverage, with forecasts included for key market sectors. A full copy of the white paper is available for free download on the firm’s website.

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Siemens has received its largest onshore wind turbine order to date, for 258 of its units, which will be built in the United States.

Siemens has received its largest onshore wind turbine order to date, for 258 of its SWT-2.3-101 units, which will be installed at three MidAmerican Energy Company wind projects in Iowa for a combined capacity of 593 megawatts. This major order provides further evidence of the long-term future of the U.S. renewable energy market and positions Siemens for ongoing growth in the U.S. Most recently, Siemens Energy celebrated the official opening of its new wind turbine nacelle assembly facility in Hutchinson, Kansas, and the company has committed to further production expansion as the U.S. market continues to grow.

"MidAmerican Energy is a leader in Iowa's clean energy efforts, and we are proud to partner with them as they continue to install generating capacity using the wind resources of Iowa, the state with the highest percentage of wind energy generation in its mix," said Rene Umlauft, CEO of Siemens Renewable Energy Division. "These wind turbines will be produced in our factories in Fort Madison, Iowa, and in Hutchinson, Kansas, and will supply secure and environmentally friendly energy to 190,000 average U.S. households," added Umlauft. "As the U.S. market for wind power continues to develop even further, Siemens will continue to create clean energy jobs in America's heartland."

The scope of the MidAmerican Energy order includes the supply and commissioning of 258 Siemens 2.3-megawatt wind turbines with a rotor diameter of 101 meters, as well as a service, maintenance and warranty agreement for the Laurel, Rolling Hills and Pomeroy wind projects in Iowa. Delivery and commissioning of the turbines is expected to begin in the second quarter of 2011 and be completed by early 2012. Siemens and MidAmerican Energy first partnered on a wind power project in 2008 when Siemens delivered 76 of its 2.3-megawatt wind turbines with a rotor diameter of 93 meters for the Adair project in Iowa. In addition to the wind turbine order, Siemens signed a long-term service contract with MidAmerican Energy for its natural gas-fueled, combined-cycle Greater Des Moines Energy Center.

"We are pleased to move forward with these wind energy projects in Iowa. The projects make good economic sense for Iowa and our customers as the state continues to benefit from the construction of additional renewable energy generating capacity," said Bill Fehrman, president of MidAmerican Energy.

"In addition to being one of the most forward looking utilities in the U.S. and already the leader among regulated utilities in terms of wind generation ownership, MidAmerican Energy is one of our largest U.S. utility customers, crossing the full scope of our integrated energy business. We are proud to be selected by them to supply both wind turbines for three wind farms and long-term service for its Greater Des Moines Energy Center," said Randy Zwirn, President and CEO of Siemens Energy, Inc. "Orders of this magnitude create the environment for continued investment in the infrastructure America needs to meet the strong demand for clean energy right where it's used."

Siemens Energy provides power systems that generate more than one-third of the electricity used in the U.S. In addition to its wind power production facilities, Siemens broke ground in October of this year on a new 400,000-square-foot, 60-Hz gas turbine production plant adjacent to its existing Siemens Steam Turbine-Generator Manufacturing Plant in Charlotte, N.C.

Since 2005, Siemens has made significant strides to grow its presence in the wind energy industry in the U.S., and is on track to become number two in the market. In addition to its new 300,000-square-foot nacelle assembly plant in Hutchinson, Kansas, Siemens opened in 2007 and subsequently expanded its 600,000-square-foot wind turbine blade manufacturing facility in Fort Madison, Iowa. Other U.S. wind power operations include a Houston-based wind turbine service operation, an R&D center in Boulder, Colorado, two gearbox factories in Elgin, Illinois, and the company's Americas headquarters in Orlando, Fla. In the U.S., Siemens employs close to 1,500 people in the wind business and has installed wind turbines with a combined capacity of more than 3,600 megawatts in the U.S., which is enough to supply power to more than one million average homes.

Wind Power is an important part of Siemens' Environmental Portfolio. In fiscal 2010, revenue from the Portfolio totaled about euro 28 billion, making Siemens the world's largest supplier of environmentally friendly technologies.

The Siemens Energy Sector is the world's leading supplier of a complete spectrum of products, services and solutions for the generation, transmission and distribution of power and for the extraction, conversion and transport of oil and gas. In fiscal 2010 (ended September 30), the Energy Sector had revenues of approximately EUR25.8 billion and received new orders totaling more than EUR30.1 billion and posted a profit of more than EUR3.5 billion. On September 30, 2010, the Energy Sector had a work force of more than 88,000. Further information is available at: www.siemens.com/energy.

MidAmerican Energy Company, Iowa's largest energy company, provides electric service to 725,000 customers and natural gas service to 707,000 customers in Iowa, Illinois, Nebraska and South Dakota. It is headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa. Information about MidAmerican Energy is available at http://www.midamericanenergy.com/.

Department Of Energy Finalizes Loan Guarantee To Support World's Largest Wind Project

845-Megawatt Wind Facility Will Create Hundreds of Jobs and Avoid Over 1.2 Million Tons of Carbon Dioxide Annually

U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu recently announced that a partial loan guarantee for a $1.3B loan has been finalized to support the world's largest wind farm. The loan will finance the Caithness Shepherds Flat project, an 845-megawatt wind generation facility located in eastern Oregon sponsored by Caithness Energy, LLC and GE Energy Financial Services.

"Renewable energy investments like these are creating jobs while helping to maintain America's global competitiveness in the clean energy economy," said Secretary Chu. "By leveraging our nation's vast natural resources, we can help provide alternative sources of energy and stimulate economic growth and job creation."

"Today tells a story about the power of collaboration," said Governor Ted Kulongoski. "State policies coupled with investments from the federal government, local governments, private sector partners and landowners created the environment in which we are able to create new jobs, new clean forms of energy and new opportunities that better our state and our nation."

"This is a great holiday gift for Eastern Oregon and it couldn't come at a better time," said U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley. "This financing from the U.S. Department of Energy will help put people back to work and continue Oregon's reputation as a clean energy leader."

Loan guarantee helps insure that this project will be built, that jobs will be created, that the Oregon economy will benefit and that the United States will be another step closer to energy independence," U.S. Senator Ron Wyden said. "When it is completed, Shepherds Flat will be one of the largest windmill farms in the world and will put Oregon on the map as a leader in green energy."

According to company estimates, the project will directly employ 400 workers during construction and 35 workers during operation. The company projects the wind farm will avoid over 1.2 million tons of carbon dioxide per year, equivalent to the amount of carbon dioxide from approximately 200,000 passenger vehicles.

The Caithness Shepherds Flat wind project will use 338 GE 2.5xl wind turbines, which are designed to provide high efficiency and increased reliability, and grid integration. The wind farm is the first in North America to deploy these turbines, which have been used in Europe and Asia. Once completed, the project will sell 100 percent of the power and renewable energy credits generated to Southern California Edison under 20-year fixed price power purchase agreements.

The Caithness Shepherds Flat project is the sixth Recovery Act-supported project to close and the largest to date to receive a loan guarantee under the Financial Institution Partnership Program (FIPP). The $1.3B loan is funded by a group of 26 institutional investors and commercial banks led by Citi, Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ, Ltd., RBS Securities and WestLB Securities, Inc. The closing of this transaction reflects the market acceptability of the loan guarantee model under FIPP, including cooperation among multiple creditors.

The Department of Energy, through the Loan Programs Office, has issued loan guarantees or offered conditional commitments for loan guarantees to support 16 clean energy projects totaling nearly $16.5B. Together, the 16 projects total over 37 million megawatt-hours of capacity, which will produce enough clean energy to power over 3.3 million homes. Additional DOE-supported projects include two of the world's largest solar thermal projects and a 2,200 megawatt nuclear power plant - the nation's first in three decades. For more information, visit Loan Program Office website(http://www.lgprogram.energy.gov/).

SOURCE: U.S. Department Of Energy Steven Chu

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United States Department of Energy Boosts 2011 Electric Vehicle Manufacturing and Infrastructure Market With $184 Million Grant

U.S. Secretary of Energy Steven Chu announced on December 16th that the U.S. Department of Energy will start accepting applications up to $184 million to accelerate the development and deployment of new efficient vehicle technologies. Projects will span the broad spectrum of technology approaches, including advanced materials, combustion research, hybrid electric systems, fleet efficiency, and fuels technology. Ultimately, the projects will reduce U.S. dependence on foreign oil, save drivers money, and limit carbon air pollution.

The U.S. remains the largest vehicle market in the world, according to market analyses by energy research firm SBI Energy. Of the 204 million personal vehicles, the average U.S. household owns 1.9 vehicles, which is slightly more than the average number of drivers per household. Most personal vehicles rely on the internal combustion engine and burn gasoline fuel at an average rate of one gallon every 20 miles. Compare that to hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) fuel consumption and it's a completely different picture. SBI Energy estimates that HEVs consume an estimated 6.3 million gallons (in gasoline equivalents) compared to 198 million gallons of compressed natural gas and 138 million gallons of liquefied petroleum gasoline. By 2014, SBI Energy expects electric fuel consumption in the U.S. to grow to nearly 9 million gallons.

According to the SBI Energy report, Electric Vehicle (EV) and Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) Markets Worldwide, in the six years between 2004 and 2009, the number of HEV available models around the world has tripled to 29 and the number of brands producing hybrids has jumped from six to fourteen. In fact, almost a third of the hybrids being offered in the U.S. have 2010 as their first model year.

Global sales of hybrid electric vehicles rose 33% in 2009 with 700,000 vehicles sold in an unfavorable climate that saw the overall auto market plunge worldwide. SBI Energy calculates that sales of hybrids accounted for 99% of all electric vehicle sales in 2009 worldwide.

"[The DOE] awards will help ensure America leads the world in the development of advanced vehicle technologies that support cost-competitive, convenient, and comfortable fuel-efficient vehicles," said Secretary Chu in the DOE press release. "Investments in the next generation of vehicle technologies are laying the groundwork for a sustainable transportation sector in America that strengthens our economy and improves our economic competitiveness."

According to SBI Energy, future growth of the electric vehicle market on a global scale will depend on three key motivators: government incentives to consumers to purchase fuel efficient vehicles; any increase in the price of crude oil and gas prices at the pumps; and a reduction in the price differential between hybrids and non-hybrids.

"SBI Energy's first EV market study entitled, Electric Vehicle (EV) Infrastructure Manufacturing projects North America will hold 20% of the electric vehicle infrastructure manufacturing market by 2014, driven by government incentive programs and the movement toward eco-friendly consumer lifestyles," says Shelley Carr, publisher for SBI Energy. "While government capital is vital, growth also depends heavily on the investment interests of the private sector and the adoption of electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles by consumers."

Electric Vehicle (EV) and Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) Markets Worldwide and Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Manufacturing from SBI Energy provide an integrated, precise view of electric vehicle markets today and into the future.

Electric Vehicle (EV) and Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) Markets Worldwide analyzes the manufacturing and sales of electric based passenger vehicles throughout the world with a particular emphasis on the United States and Japan as the leading markets for electric vehicles. The report also takes a look at technology and innovations related to the HEV, PHEV and BEV markets. For more information: http://www.sbireports.com/Electric-Vehicle-EV-2496608/

Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Manufacturing examines the market value of EV infrastructure manufacturing by country, projected deployment of EVs by type, global activities effecting development of EV and profiles of key EV infrastructure manufacturers. For more information: http://www.sbireports.com/Electric-Vehicle-Infrastructure-2441322/

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Maryland homeowners offered low-cost efficiency loans

Homeowners in Maryland can now apply for low-cost loans to support energy efficiency upgrades from the Maryland Clean Energy Center.


The Center has launched a new Maryland Home Energy Loan Program to help fund upgrades including better insulation and higher-rated heating and cooling equipment.

Using economic stimulus funding, the program will help the state in its goal of reducing carbon emissions by 20% by 2025.

In order to apply for a loan, homeowners must first have a home energy audit carried out by a certified auditor, which will recommend ways that their homes can save energy. Homeowners who have had a qualified audit since July 1, 2010, can apply immediately.

With an audit in hand, homeowners can apply for up to $20,000 each toward home energy improvements, with interest rates for the loans set at 6.99%.

The approval process for the loans takes a few days, and improvements will need to be carried out by certified contractors.

The Maryland Energy Administration, the administrator of state stimulus funds, believes most home improvements will include upgrading insulation, plugging air leaks, sealing ducts and replacing furnaces, heat pumps and/or air conditioners that are at least 10 years old.

Maryland Clean Energy Center Executive Director Kathy Magruder said: “This month’s cold spell is a potent reminder of steps to save money by making our primary residences more energy efficient. A growing number of new Maryland businesses provide energy audits and will help consumers more easily implement the home improvements recommended in those audits.”

Malcolm Woolf, Director of the Maryland Energy Administration, added: “Building on the recent successes of our Home Appliance Rebate Program, these Low-Cost Home Efficiency Loans will help keep money in Marylanders’ pockets and bring our state closer to meeting our EmPOWER Maryland goal of reducing energy consumption by 15% by 2015.” Originally posted here

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Extension of renewable energy incentive promotes clean energy development

The following is the statement of National Hydropower Association Executive Director Linda Church Ciocci on the passage of a one-year extension of the Section 1603 grants in lieu of tax credit program in the tax bill compromise:


“NHA applauds the House and Senate for approving an extension of the Section 1603 program this week. Incentives for hydropower and other renewable energy development are critical for our country to expand generation of clean energy resources and promote the local economic benefits and job creation opportunities associated with these projects.”

“NHA looks forward to working with the 112th Congress next year on additional growth policies that were not included in the bill, such as the 48C renewable energy manufacturers investment tax credit, the clean renewable energy bonds (CREBs) program, and other important incentives to drive deployment for conventional hydropower, pumped storage and marine and hydrokinetic resources.”

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from: http://7thspace.com/headlines/367364/extension_of_renewable_energy_incentive_promotes_clean_energy_development.html

Policies to spur renewable energy can lower energy costs

The South could pay less for its electricity in 20 years than is currently projected if strong public policies are enacted to spur renewable energy production and use, according to a report released today by researchers at the Georgia Institute of Technology and Duke University. The 190-page report, "Renewable Energy in the South," builds on a short policy brief released last summer and provides an in-depth assessment of the scope of renewable energy resources in the South and their economic impacts on electricity rates and utility bills in the region.

Skeptics of renewable energy production often cite the South as lacking renewable resources. However, the new report confirms that the right mix of public policies could drive the region to produce as much as 30 percent—up from less than 4 percent—of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. Wind, biomass, hydro power and customer-owned renewables stand out as cost savers and are detailed for both utility-scale and customer-owned renewable, based on their cost-competitiveness.

"While the South enjoys some of the lowest electricity rates in the country, there is resistance to developing new technologies that seem much more costly than coal based electricity," said Etan Gumerman of Duke University's Nicholas Institute for Environmental Policy Solutions and a co-lead researcher on the study. "In reality, that's not the case."

With a customized version of the economic modeling system used by the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), researchers found that if supportive policies and tax incentives are implemented or extended, total regional energy costs would be 7 percent less by 2030 than they are projected to be if policies do not change. If no new policies are adopted, the EIA predicts the average electricity rates in the South will rise from the current 7.9 cents to 9.7 cents per kilowatt hour in 2030 – a 23 percent increase. The study finds that with a mix of policies designed to promote renewable energy, rates would rise to only 9 cents per kilowatt hour in 2030, saving electricity users in the region $23 billion a year.

The report examines the economic impact of a number of renewable energy policies, including expanded research funding and tax incentives (such as those debated in several recent legislative initiatives) and the enactment of a national Renewable Electricity Standard (RES). In addition to considering the potential for large-scale energy producers to generate renewable energy, the report finds that end-users, such as households equipped with solar panels and industry with the ability to recycle waste heat, could generate a significant amount of the South's renewable electricity.

"This study takes a unique approach by considering both traditional, utility-scale renewable power production as well as renewable systems owned by consumers," said Dr. Marilyn Brown of the Georgia Institute of Technology and co-lead author of the study. "Our analysis shows that renewable energy could be a real economic boon to the Southern states, but only if elected officials, and consumers, take action to unlock the region's renewable energy potential."

Read the full report here: http://www.seealliance.org/PDFs/RENEWABLE%20ENERGY%20IN%20THE%20SOUTH.pdf

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Saint-Gobain and CertainTeed Launch Three-Year, $550,000 Partnership with YouthBuild USA

Yesterday, Saint-Gobain and CertainTeed announced that they are joining forces with YouthBuild USA to support its green education and job-training program for low-income youth. At a national kick-off event in Philadelphia, Saint-Gobain and CertainTeed announced they are providing a three-year, $550,000 grant to support YouthBuild USA and its Green Initiative program.

Before

After

"As the world's largest building materials company, Saint-Gobain is committed to helping communities build and renovate energy-efficient, comfortable, healthy, cost-efficient and durable buildings," said Gilles Colas, president and CEO of Saint-Gobain in North America. "With the help of our subsidiary CertainTeed, North America's leading brand of exterior and interior building products, we hope to help YouthBuild USA achieve its mission of rebuilding the lives and communities of low-income, disconnected young adults, through its green building and job training program."

In addition to funding from the Saint Gobain Corporation Foundation, the three-year partnership includes a commitment to provide energy-efficient products, building science and technical expertise, employee volunteer support and more. The partnership will support YouthBuild USA in its national efforts as well as undertake green home renovation projects in four local communities where Saint-Gobain has business concentrations, including: YouthBuild Philadelphia Charter School (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania), YouthBuild Akron Summit (Akron, Ohio), YouthBuild Schenectady (Schenectady, New York), and Worcester YouthBuild (Worcester, Massachusetts).

Each of the four local YouthBuild programs will receive $100,000 in pass-through grants over the next three years to engage YouthBuild students to learn green building techniques and build energy-efficient affordable housing. Saint-Gobain and CertainTeed employees based in these communities will volunteer to assist YouthBuild students in renovating green homes.

Ten thousand disadvantaged 16- to 24-year-olds work toward their GEDs or high school diplomas annually in YouthBuild programs. These young adults learn job skills by building affordable, and increasingly green, housing for homeless people and low-income families. Since 1994, approximately 100,000 YouthBuild students have built 20,000 housing units across the country.

Through the YouthBuild USA Green Initiative, YouthBuild students build green, energy-efficient and healthy homes in their neighborhoods, gain green job skills and industry-recognized credentials, and develop environmentally focused leadership skills. YouthBuild homes are increasingly earning high ratings from Energy Star Homes, the U.S. Green Building Council, Green Built, National Association of Home Builders and other local and regional green building associations.

"Saint-Gobain and CertainTeed are playing a key role in helping prepare YouthBuild students for jobs and entrepreneurship in the green economy," said Dorothy Stoneman, president and founder of YouthBuild USA. "This crucial support enables local YouthBuild programs to reach more young people who are out-of-work and out-of-school, providing leadership and life skills, as well as preparing them for careers in construction and other fields."

The YouthBuild Philadelphia green home renovation project at 4620 Greene Street was the location for the kick-off of this national partnership. The project, which will be seeking LEED certification from the US Green Building Council, will consist of the green renovation of a dilapidated building, vacant for nearly 20 years. The project is being undertaken in collaboration with YouthBuild Philadelphia Charter School, Philadelphia Neighborhood Housing Services, Saint-Gobain and CertainTeed.

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A Clean Transportation Milestone: New Electric Car Hits U.S. Streets

The first new-generation electric car was driven off a U.S. lot yesterday, marking a major milestone in efforts to reduce air pollution, decrease our dependence on oil and reinvigorate our automobile industry. The car was a Nissan Leaf, the first of several all-electric and plug-in models, including the Chevy Volt, set to hit the auto market in coming years.

"Today's modern electric car technology is both real and available," said Howard Learner, Executive Director of the Environmental Law & Policy Center. "When electric cars are powered by renewable energy sources, they can be a big part of the pollution reduction solution. These 'cars of the future' are here today, and we look forward to driving them soon in the Midwest."

About one-third of our country's global warming pollution comes from the transportation sector, as well as much of the soot and smog that harms public health. Electric vehicles can be an important part of the solution to these pollution problems if they're charged with renewable energy. The Environmental Law & Policy Center (ELPC) has been working to promote electric vehicle use in areas like Chicago and Northern Illinois where low-carbon sources of electricity make electric vehicles a good choice for the environment.

For more information about electric vehicles and their environmental benefits, please visit the Environmental Law & Policy Center at http://elpc.org/plug-ins

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CARB Approves THINK City Zero-emission Vehicle

The California Air Resources Board has approved the THINK City as a zero-emissions vehicle (ZEV). The approval paves the way for THINK to sell the all-electric THINK City in California, 12 other states and the District of Columbia that have adopted California's ZEV requirements.


"CARB certification is critical for fleet sales, not just in California, but in the other CARB states as well," said THINK spokesperson Brendan Prebo. "These states make up more than 35 percent of the automobile market in the U.S. and represent a significant share of the fleet market."

Designed for fleet applications and urban commuters, the THINK City is durable, highly maneuverable and fun to drive. The THINK City has a range of 100 miles, which meets CARB's Type II ZEV Tier requirements, and uses an advanced lithium-ion battery developed by Ener1.

THINK will begin delivering vehicles to fleet customers soon. THINK plans to roll out retail distribution in select cities in the second half of 2011. The retail distribution timeline coincides with the company's plans to expand production at its Elkhart, Ind. manufacturing facility. The company also builds the THINK City in Finland for sale in Europe, where the car has been highway-certified since 1999.

Geothermal Industry Leader Elected as Renewable Energy Advisory Committee Chair

The Secretary of Commerce released the Administration's plan for a Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (RE&EE) Export Initiative, and addressed the first meeting of his newly created Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Advisory Committee. Secretary Gary Locke urged its members to help the Administration achieve its goal of doubling renewable energy exports in the next five years, targeting $10 billion or more in annual export benefits.


“Secretary Locke and the Administration have demonstrated bold leadership in setting this goal, and issuing the National Renewable Export Initiative,” said Karl Gawell, Geothermal Energy Association Executive Director, who was elected Chair of the Advisory Committee. “The Initiative lays out goals and specific steps towards those goals that commit the government to action.”

The Advisory Committee met for its first day of deliberations yesterday and outlined its work for the coming year. “There was a strong consensus that first we need to help decision makers understand that a strong domestic market is key to expanding US exports and that US leadership in these technologies will pay dividends in billions of dollars in new exports,” Gawell said.

The world wide markets for renewable and efficiency technologies are substantial and growing. According to the Department of Commerce (DOC) report, “$162 billion of private-sector capital was invested in RE&EE technologies globally in 2009. As the economy improves, global investment in RE&EE is likely to increase further.”

Expanding US exports in these markets will not be without challenges, as worldwide governments from China to Germany also see the opportunities they present. As the DOC report notes, “Globally, nations are using RE&EE as a catalyst to promote economic growth and to create high-tech, high-wage jobs for their citizens. As of 2009, stimulus bills worldwide invested an additional $183 billion in RE&EE technologies.”

To support achieving these US goals, the Secretary chartered a Federal Advisory Committee of leaders in the renewable energy and energy efficiency field to provide advice and recommendations on a number of topics. These topics include assessing the competitiveness of the U.S. renewable energy and energy efficiency industries and their ability to develop products, services and technologies, helping guide trade policy development and negotiations, developing programs to encourage U.S. producers to enter foreign markets, study the effects of U.S. policies, regulations, and programs on the competitiveness of U.S. companies, prioritize export markets, enhance industry and trade association export promotion programs, improve resource allocation for export promotion efforts, and study policies and practices of foreign governments impacting the export of U.S. renewable energy and energy efficiency goods, services and technologies.

“We expect this Committee will be an active partner working to succeed in achieving the aggressive goals for renewable exports being set by the Administration,” Gawell said. The Committee also established several subcommittees, which will be reporting back to the full Committee early next year.

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For more information about the Geothermal Energy Association visit http://www.geo-energy.org/

Plug In Carolina and Eaton Tour South Carolina To Kick Off Electric Vehicle Charging Network

 

Plug In Carolina and Eaton Corporation today kicked off a statewide tour to mark the deployment of South Carolina’s multi-city Electric Vehicle (EV) charging network. The tour began at the state Capitol in Columbia, with a ribbon cutting ceremony and remarks by Governor Mark Sanford. The implementation of the charging network is underway to support the variety of new EVs emerging now and in the near future and was made possible by the recently announced agreement with Eaton to supply and support EV charging stations in eight South Carolina cities.

“We’re eager to provide Eaton’s comprehensive solutions to Plug In Carolina’s public electric vehicle program and these events are the perfect way to demonstrate our support of the communities in South Carolina where we do business.”

.The state Capitol event featured displays of Eaton’s Pow-R-Station™ DC Quick Charger and Level 2 charging stations. Electric vehicles included the Mitsubishi iMiEV, the Chevrolet Volt and the Tesla Roadster.

The project, which launched June 15, 2010, is funded by two state grants secured through the South Carolina Energy Office and features a family of charging stations with multi-port configuration that are user friendly and lend themselves to a cost-effective electrical installation.

Utility Partners of America will install 30 Eaton charging stations in Columbia, Rock Hill, Union, Greenville, Spartanburg, and the Town of Blythewood at key re-fueling hubs in each city. By the end of January 2011, Plug In Carolina expects to increase the number of charging stations to 80 and add locations including Charleston, Myrtle Beach, and North Myrtle Beach.

“Something special is taking place. Our state is one of the first to invest and create an EV charger infrastructure across multiple cities,” said James Poch, executive director, Plug In Carolina. “We are showing the nation that our citizens and businesses welcome these vehicles. Within the last year, South Carolina has had two EV manufacturers, Proterra and CT&T, locate their manufacturing operations in the state and we’re ready for more.”

The program will provide publicly accessible EV charging stations at locations such as municipal parking garages, public streets and retailers. Depending on host city requirements, the stations will be enabled for smart communications to facilitate the monitoring and management of the state-wide network of chargers.

“Through this collaboration, Eaton is helping to create the infrastructure leading to the adoption and expanded use of electric vehicles,” said Tim Old, business unit manager, Electric Vehicle Infrastructure, Eaton. “We’re eager to provide Eaton’s comprehensive solutions to Plug In Carolina’s public electric vehicle program and these events are the perfect way to demonstrate our support of the communities in South Carolina where we do business.”

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EPA Releases Final Renewable Energy Fuel Standards for 2011

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) is required by Congress each year to set a renewable fuel standard. The EPA recently announced the final 2011 fuel standards for the Renewable Fuels Standard Program (“RFS2”), which became effective July 1, 2010. Ethanol and other renewable fuels must account for at least 13.95 billion gallons of fuel sales in the U.S. in 2011, which is up from the 12.95 billion gallons mandated in 2010.


With RFS2, the EPA is matching mandates to production capacity and thus the completed RFS2 requires the following volumes in four fuel categories: (1) cellulosic biofuels, 6.6 million gallons; (2) biomass-based diesel, 800 million gallons; (3) advanced biofuels, 1.35 billion gallons; and (4) renewable fuels, 13.95 billion gallons. For the total renewable fuels requirement of 13.95 billion gallons, it is expected that 1.35 billion gallons will be from biodiesel, advanced biofuels and cellulosic biofuels, while the remaining 12.6 billion gallons will be from corn ethanol. However, a cap is placed on starch-based biofuels, i.e., corn ethanol, in the completed RFS2. The cap consists of 15 billion gallons.

The volume set for cellulosic biofuels, 6.6 million gallons, was lowered from the original 250 million gallons dictated for 2011 by the 2007 Energy Independence and Security Act passed by Congress; this act also allows the EPA to revise the mandated volumes for each year. The EPA revised downward the volume for cellulosic biofuels based upon limited industry growth and lack of commercial scale availability. However, the number is considered high enough to provide incentive for future growth in the cellulosic biofuels industry but low enough to balance the uncertainty in actual production levels. The EPA further notes five likely plants that will be able to provide the mandated 6.6 million gallons of cellulosic biofuels. These plants are DuPont Danisco, Fiberight, KL Energy Corp, Range Fuels, and KiOR.

Despite revising downward the cellulosic biofuels mandate to 6.6 million gallons, the EPA maintained the 1.35 billion gallons of required advanced biofuels, only one of which is cellulosic biofuels. The EPA expects the difference to be made up by other qualifying biofuels, which may possibly include biofuels from Brazil, renewable diesel, etc. until U.S. biofuels production capacity increases.

Lastly, in the completed RFS2, the EPA indicates it will allow retroactive Renewable Identification Numbers (“RIN”). A RIN is 38-digit code applied to each produced or imported gallon of ethanol in the U.S. It allows the tracking of each gallon of ethanol and essentially serves as a renewable energy credit. The EPA will also allow a means for foreign producers to establish greenhouse gas (“GHG”) characteristics for feedstock and then apply for a waiver of tracking and certification requirements based upon a predictable GHG performance. This already occurs for U.S. sourced material.

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PA Department of Labor & Industry Announces Energy Sector Partnership Education, Training Grants

Organizations that prepare Pennsylvania workers for green careers in the growing energy sector will get a $1.2 million boost from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, Labor & Industry Secretary Sandi Vito announced today.

"Pennsylvania is among the states with the largest number of green jobs," Vito said. "By fostering the development of education and training programs that deliver the skills necessary for workers to excel in these jobs, we are helping to ensure the growth and vitality of the state's energy sector which is among our most important industries, now and for years to come."

The Department of Labor & Industry and Pennsylvania Workforce Investment Board, or PA WIB, are awarding the grants to seven organizations which are investing an additional $800,000 in private-sector matching funds.

The PA WIB is the Governor's principal private-sector policy advisor on building a strong workforce development system aligned with education policies and economic development goals. Its members represent a cross-section of business executives, labor officials, education leaders, economic development practitioners and local elected officials.

Additional information about the grants is available at www.paworkforce.state.pa.us, click "Recovery Act Workforce Information" on the left, then "Workforce Development," then "Workforce Development Grants."

For more information about how federal Recovery Act funds are being invested to help Pennsylvania residents and businesses, visit www.recovery.pa.gov.

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New York, Pennsylvania and Maryland are leading the U.S. in a joint effort with China to launch cooperation on Subnational Climate Action

U.S. states and Chinese provinces launch focused effort to cooperate on comprehensive climate action planning.


The Center for Climate Strategies (CCS), a U.S.-based non-profit, and its Chinese partner the Global Environment Institute (GEI), a China-based Non Government Organization, have teamed up to lead the subnational effort between states and provinces in the two nations. CCS and GEI will showcase cooperative work between U.S. states and Chinese provinces. Presentations by key national and subnational government leaders from China and the U.S. will focus on the challenges and opportunities for cooperative engagement at the subnational level.

"The potential for economic, energy and environmental gains through state and provincial cooperation on bottom-up policy solutions in the U.S. and China is vast, and can be realized by cooperative programs such as the current pilot program involving the state of New York and Guangdong Province," said Tom Peterson, president and CEO of the Center for Climate Strategies. "This is exactly the kind of work needed right now at the subnational level to curb greenhouse gas emissions and advance economic growth while helping the global community develop an effective post-Kyoto agreement."

Teams of provincial and state officials have traveled between the Guangdong Province of China and the U.S. states of New York, Pennsylvania and Maryland to focus on the transfer of knowledge and techniques that each needs to attain economic growth and emissions reduction goals simultaneously through advanced climate action planning and analysis. A climate action plan pilot for the Guangdong Province is now underway with CCS and GEI assistance.

"Working together, states and provinces can capitalize on the opportunities binational cooperation offers through advanced climate action," said Mr. Su Wei, Director General, Department of Climate Change, China's National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC).

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“Electric Bus of the Future”

The hybrid systems research team at GE Global Research, the company’s central technology development arm, announced a significant breakthrough that could help accelerate the electrification of bus fleets, delivery trucks and other larger, heavy-duty vehicle fleets.

“With the cost of the battery remaining a principal hurdle, a dual battery system could bring these costs down and help accelerate the electric revolution for bus and delivery truck fleets representing hundreds of thousands of vehicles.”

.The GE team successfully demonstrated a dual battery system on a zero tailpipe emissions hybrid transit bus that pairs a high-energy density sodium battery with a high-power lithium battery. To view a video of the bus being test driven, -click here-.

While significant advances in battery technology have been made, further reductions in the size and cost of batteries will be needed to enable the widespread adoption of electric vehicles. GE researchers believe a dual system with high power and energy storage capacity could achieve the optimal electric driving range and acceleration requirements at a more practical size scale and cost for larger vehicles. The research is being done as part of a $13 million research project GE is engaged in with the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and Northeast Advanced Vehicle Consortium, funded under the National Fuel Cell Bus Program.

“Public transit and delivery service providers recognize the importance and benefits of transitioning to an electric fleet, but are looking for cost-effective solutions to make that possible,” said Lembit Salasoo, Senior Electrical Engineer and Principal Investigator on the hybrid bus project at GE Global Research. “With the cost of the battery remaining a principal hurdle, a dual battery system could bring these costs down and help accelerate the electric revolution for bus and delivery truck fleets representing hundreds of thousands of vehicles.”

“We’re entering a decade of unprecedented activity and developments in electrified transportation,” Salasoo added. “With heavier vehicle platforms, both energy storage and power are a premium to deliver optimal vehicle performance, but the exact needs can vary based on a vehicle’s size and drive cycle. The beauty of our dual battery system is that it can be scaled to deliver just the right combination of power and storage.”

Many of the 843,000 buses registered in the U.S. (including most of the 63,000 transit buses and 480,000 school buses) travel less than 100 miles per day. Enabling more of these buses to transition to an all-electric, zero emissions platform would dramatically reduce CO2 emissions and petroleum fuel consumption.

Most types of batteries today come with a trade-off between power and energy storage. For example, lithium batteries, provide a lot of power for acceleration, but are not optimized to store energy for driving range. Sodium batteries are on the opposite side of the spectrum. They store large amounts of energy, but are less optimized for power. GE’s dual battery combines the best attributes of both chemistries into a single system. In the hybrid transit bus demonstration, the lithium battery focused on the high power acceleration and braking, while the sodium battery provided an even electric power flow to extend the bus range. Each type of battery does what it does best.

In addition to optimizing performance, a dual system can reduce the cost of a battery by up to 20% compared to a single battery system for vehicle applications like transit buses and delivery trucks that require significant power and energy storage capacity. The key cost advantage of a dual system is that it provides flexibility to integrate less expensive battery chemistries without having to increase the size of the battery to address a vehicle’s power and energy storage needs. A single battery system would require a more costly scale up in the size of the battery to achieve the same result.

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