CCNET - News - 2002



		Colorado Coalition for New Energy Technologies Update 30 May 2003 Incorporating News from the Arizona, Colorado and Utah Coalitions for New Energy Technologies In This Edition: Welcome to New Members Regionwide: enXco Colorado: Tierra Concrete Homes, Inc. News from Western Business Coalition for New Energy Technologies Coalition Sponsoring Two Conferences: Green Power Options Seminar 2003 Rethinking Eurasia: Spotlight on Russia’s Urals & Siberia and the Kyrgyz Republic News Items from Members of Western Business Coalition for New Energy Technologies GE's Move into Wind Power Business Seen as Significant “Power may be blowin' in wind: Delta Montrose Explores Western Slope’s Wind Potential” “Circle Four Affiliate on Track to Make Fuel From Pig Poop” New Report Documents Water Impacts of Fossil Fuel Power Plants “Top oil exec wows 'em at Mines commencement” SeaWest to apply for Lamar wind farm permits Regional News Regionwide: Arizona gets a “C” on its Renewable Energy Report Card… …while Colorado gets an “F”; New Mexico Gets “B+” and Utah “F” Western Governors Commend Sen. Domenici for Adopting Regional Approach on Electricity in Energy Bill Arizona: Solar Powers Gray Wolf Landfill Arizona Law Aimed at State Energy Bills Colorado: Wildfire fodder may offer energy for homes Altira to fund energy startups Jack Stone New Mexico: Los Alamos Races to Harness Hydrogen as Fuel Energy Department to Fund Eight Native American Tribes to Develop Renewable Energy Utah: PacifiCorp Utilities Lower “Blue Sky” Wind Premium Utah Wind Website Launched National News Senate to Consider Energy Bill Next Week News From Windpower 2003 Farmers embrace wind energy's clean power potential Exxon Backs Groups That Question Global Warming EIA Issues FAQ for Alternative Fuels USDA Extends Deadline for Grant Applications for Renewable Energy Initiatives NREL Releases New Report: “Bridging the Valley of Death: Transitioning from Public to Private Sector Financing” International News Insurers Weigh Moves to Cut Liability for Global Warming Upcoming Events Arizona: Southwest Renewable Energy Fair, Flagstaff, 8-10 August UPEX 2003, Scottsdale, 7-11 October 2003 Colorado: USGBC Colorado Chapter Monthly Evening Program, Denver, 2 June Citizens' Conference on Climate Change and the West, Boulder, 13-15 June Summer Solstice 160-Meter Bike Sprint, Boulder, 15 June 2003 Consumer Energy Expo, Golden, 19-21 June Colorado Renewable Energy Conference, Montrose, 27-29 June 2003 Washington, D.C.: NREL Energy Analysis Forum, Arlington, Virginia, 11-12 June 2003 WELCOME TO NEW COALITION MEMBERS: [For complete member lists of the Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico and Utah Coalitions for New Energy Technologies, visit the respective state sites at www.newenergytechnologies.org] Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico and Utah Coalitions for New Energy Technologies: enXco www.enxco.com North Palm Springs, California enXco is one of the fastest-growing wind companies in the western U.S. The firm operates and maintains more than 5,000 wind turbine generators in California's premier wind development locations and is developing projects in Great Britain, Germany, India and other parts of the world. enXco is proud of its quality service and management, innovation and experience. Colorado Coalition for New Energy Technologies: Tierra Concrete Homes www.tierraconcretehomes.com Pueblo Tierra Concrete Homes, Inc. is a progressive homebuilder utilizing passive solar design, green principles, and energy efficiency. It builds insulated tilt-up concrete walls, which, together with passive solar design, make the homes 70% more efficient than homes built to the Model Energy Code. The homes have proudly won local, state, and national awards for energy efficiency and sustainability. A Tierra Concrete home saves money and the environment by greatly reducing the need for fossil fuels. Active solar and photovoltaic systems are used as well as the passive solar design. The homes are more durable, disaster-resistant, and have an indefinite lifespan. Tierra Concrete Homes whole-heartedly supports the use of renewable energy as clean energy for Colorado's future. NEWS FROM WESTERN BUSINESS COALITION FOR NEW ENERGY TECHNOLOGIES The Western Business Coalition for New Energy Technologies is proud to be among the sponsors of the following two conferences in June: Green Power Options Seminar 2003 Denver, 11 June 2003 “Purchasing Green Power has been considered an environmental “charitable contribution” but to achieve real sustainability, renewable energy should be approached as a business investment decision for which one should expect and receive tangible returns. Organizations large and small are harnessing the financial and environmental benefits of renewable, sustainable and clean energy today: Making money. Saving money. Improving energy efficiency. Contributing to clean air. Improving their energy and power independence. This is your opportunity to find out how your organization can benefit, too.” For more information on Green Power Options Seminar 2003, sponsored by greenpowermagazine.com in conjunction with the Colorado Coalition for New Energy Technologies, visit http://www.greenpowermagazine.com/gp_seminar_learn.htm. Rethinking Eurasia: Spotlight on Russia’s Urals & Siberia and the Kyrgyz Republic Denver, 17 June 2003 On 17 June, the U.S. Department of Commerce’s BISNIS, the World Trade Center of Denver, the U.S. Export Assistance Center Denver and the Colorado Coalition for New Energy Technologies are presenting an informational workshop on how U.S. companies in key sectors (including new energy technologies) can capitalize on opportunities in Russia’s Urals and Siberia, as well as in the Kyrgyz Republic. This workshop will take place from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. at the World Trade Center Denver, 1625 Broadway, Suite 820. BISNIS representatives Azim Mamanov (Novosibirsk, Russia), Asel Sulaimanova (Kyrgyzstan), and Alyona Yelshina (Yekaterinburg, Russia) along with Washington-based international trade specialist Melissa Walters will make presentations and be available for one-on-one meetings with U.S. companies interested in discussing specific proposals or questions related to the region. Among other things, speakers will discuss: Key considerations for doing business in the region: challenges and prospects Opportunities across multiple sectors such as IT/telecom, machinery, mining, medical, construction, tourism, and more U.S. Government resources to aid your business activities and development in Eurasia The cost of this event is $20 for members of sponsoring organizations, and $30 for guests and non-members. For complete registration information, please see flyer at: http://bisnis.doc.gov/outreach03/denver.pdf. BISNIS (Business Information Service for the Newly Independent States) is the U.S. Government’s primary market information center for U.S. companies exploring business opportunities in Russia and other Newly Independent States. BISNIS provides U.S. companies with the latest market reports and tips on developments, export and investment leads, and strategies for doing business in the former Soviet Union. Since opening in 1992, BISNIS has facilitated more than $3.2 billion worth of U.S. exports and overseas investments. NEWS ITEMS FROM MEMBERS OF WESTERN BUSINESS COALITION FOR NEW ENERGY TECHNOLOGIES GE'S MOVE INTO WIND POWER BUSINESS SEEN AS SIGNIFICANT John Christoffersen of the Associated Press writes on 16 May that “General Electric Co. is injecting some pinstriped corporate muscle into the still-evolving world of wind power. A year after its purchase of Enron Corp.'s wind turbine business, GE expects the operation to generate more than $1 billion in revenue during 2003 and expand about 20 percent annually.” “The company's foray into wind energy comes as its Power Systems Division, which makes traditional gas turbines for power plants, is on the down side of a very long business cycle. GE has laid off hundreds of workers at its turbine plants, shipments are down, and the near-term outlook is weak…At the same time, wind power — which in the past often involved smaller companies — has become one of the fastest growing segments of the global energy industry.” “POWER MAY BE BLOWIN' IN WIND” —Delta Montrose Explores Western Slope’s Wind Potential Aaron Porter reports from Montrose in the Grand Junction Daily Sentinel that “the winds that lash against Cerro Summit may prove an important resource to hedge against the nation's future energy needs…Delta Montrose Electric Association [DMEA] is installing an anemometer, a device that measures wind activity, on a 1,700-acre cattle ranch owned by Nick Gray this week. If it is successful, the rural electric cooperative may attempt to build towers topped with propeller-driven generators that are turned by the wind.” "It is one of the best wind sites in our territory," said Tom Polikalas, spokesman for coalition member DMEA. Read the full story that describes DMEA’s prospective wind project, as well as other renewable energy and energy efficiency projects undertaken by the utility, on the Daily Sentinel’s website. “CIRCLE FOUR AFFILIATE ON TRACK TO MAKE FUEL FROM PIG POOP” Mark Havnes reports from Milford in the 11 May Salt Lake Tribune: “Everything about pig manure stinks, and the higher the pile, the more powerful the stench…Which is fine with Garth Boyd, who relishes the opportunity to turn a smelly by-product of the country's largest pig producer into a clean-burning, renewable and money-making additive to diesel fuel.” The farm, on 42,000 barren acres southwest of Milford, will supply manure from the 1 million pigs it raises annually for the process. The project will be run by coalition member BEST Biofuel, LLC, a company being created for that purpose and in which Smithfield is the primary partner. Read the full story on the Tribune’s website. NEW REPORT DOCUMENTS WATER IMPACTS OF FOSSIL FUEL POWER PLANTS Study presents water-saving opportunities and benefits A report released on 29 April by coalition member Land and Water Fund of the Rockies and the Clean Air Task Force documents the impacts of different fuel types and technologies on both water quantity and quality. The report, entitled “The Last Straw: Water Use by Power Plants in the Arid West,” is intended to raise awareness among planners and the general public about the impacts these plants have on scarce water supplies. It also highlights alternatives to drought-intensified dilemmas regarding power plants—such as renewable energy, increased energy efficiency and low-water cooling technologies—at a time when dozens of new coal plants and natural gas plants have been proposed for the Interior West. A project of the Energy Foundation and the Hewlett Foundation, “The Last Straw” can be downloaded at http://ef.org/energyseries_laststraw.cfm. “TOP OIL EXEC WOWS 'EM AT MINES COMMENCEMENT” —BP CEO “creates wealth” while Seeking to Mitigate Global Warming John Rebchook reports in the 10 May Rocky Mountain News that Lord John Browne, chief executive of coalition member BP, addressed the 521-member graduating class of the Colorado School of Mines in Golden. Rebchook reports that “Browne made no apologies for being a capitalist, but said that with it comes great environmental responsibility.” Browne told the students that “Companies do exist to make money - and there's nothing wrong with that…we create wealth for those who invest in us, we create jobs and income for our staff, and we create wealth for nations and local communities by developing resources.” But Rebchook said that in an interview, Browne was as equally passionate about how BP is working to reduce hydrocarbons in the air and dealing with global warming. The full story is available at on the website of the Rocky Mountain News. SEAWEST TO APPLY FOR LAMAR WIND FARM PERMITS —Utility Consumers to Save Money With Wind Energy In the 14 May Lamar Daily News, Virgil Cochran reports that the Lamar Utilities Board has authorized coalition member SeaWest Engineering to proceed with special use permits and Federal Aviation Administration permits for possible construction of a 4.5-megawatt wind power farm southeast of Lamar. Cochran adds that “[t]he move doesn't mean the local utility will build the wind farm, but it will keep the door open to proceed with construction of the project in conjunction with the larger Colorado Green windfarm near Gobbler's Knob. Construction on that facility is expected to begin in June or July.” Michael Azeka, senior vice president with SeaWest, said that he expects power costs to be near 2.5 cents per kilowatt hour. With Lamar's power production costs now hovering around 4 to 4.5 cents per kilowatt hour, the windfarm would represent cost savings to consumers if the project becomes reality. Read the full article from the Lamar Daily News. REGIONAL NEWS ARIZONA GETS A “C” ON ITS RENEWABLE ENERGY REPORT CARD… Ed Taylor, reports in the East Valley Tribune of 15 May that Arizona is “one of only 16 states to receive a passing grade in an evaluation by the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) of each state's use of renewable energy.” Quoting Amanda Ormond, who spoke on behalf of UCS, Taylor writes that “[a]lthough very little electricity is produced in Arizona from renewable sources such as solar and wind, Arizona received a C in the report because of a requirement, or portfolio standard, by the Arizona Corporation Commission that 1.1 percent of the state's power come from renewable sources by 2007.” The UCS report notes that Arizona produces only 0.1 percent of its electricity from renewables and ranks 45th out of the 50 states in actual renewable energy production. …WHILE COLORADO GETS AN “F” Steve Raabe reports in the 14 May Denver Post that Colorado's “fledgling efforts at renewable energy aren't yet good enough for a passing grade, a national advocacy group says…Colorado gets an F, making it one of 34 states receiving failing grades of D or F in a report compiled by the Washington, D.C.-based Union of Concerned Scientists.” Only California and Nevada received a grade of A, while New Mexico got a B+, with Massachusetts and Minnesota receiving Bs. Utah also received an F, while Arizona received a C (see previous story). Raabe reports that “[d]espite Colorado's having two of the nation's most successful ‘green power’ wind-energy programs, the study faulted Colorado in two areas: Failing to produce more than 1 percent of the state's power from renewable resources such as wind and sun and failing to enact state-level policies to drive renewable generation.” “Colorado's consolation in the report card was its listing as a state "most likely to improve," in part because of a 160-megawatt wind plant under development near Lamar.” Read Raabe’s full story in the Denver Post. Review the UCS Report Card: “Handful of States Lead U.S. in Prospecting for Renewable Energy” WESTERN GOVERNORS COMMEND DOMENICI FOR ADOPTING REGIONAL APPROACH ON ELECTRICITY IN ENERGY BILL The Western Governors Association has commended Sen. Pete Domenici, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, for including in the draft Senate energy legislation a regional approach to electricity that better "fits the needs of the West." In a statement on 30 April, Gov. Judy Martz of Montana, WGA Chair, and Gov. Bill Richardson, WGA Vice Chairman and lead governor for energy issues, thanked Domenici for helping move the committee "away from a top-down centralized model to a more regional model, which we believe would better fit the needs of the West." "Western Governors strongly support your proposed language on reliability standards and the decision not to preempt state authority over electric transmission siting," the governors' letter stated. "We also believe the Committee is making significant progress toward protecting state authority over retail electricity decisions." For further details, read the WGA press release. SOLAR POWERS GRAY WOLF LANDFILL An APS-developed solar-hybrid power system will greatly reduce the use of diesel generators at Waste Management of Arizona’s Gray Wolf Landfill facility just outside of Prescott. Located in a remote area in Dewey, Waste Management’s Gray Wolf Landfill originally was powered by three diesel generators. The system uses photovoltaic solar, battery storage and diesel backup to decrease fuel use and improve air quality. “Our commitment is to the safe and responsible management of waste and the highest quality of service,” said Vince Murphy, Director of Operations for Waste Management. “Partnering with APS on this project helps ensure that we, indeed, are acting responsibly toward the public and the environment.” Gray Wolf will serve as the first commercial application of the APS Tilted Tracker Photovoltaic System. Developed by APS, the tilted trackers use a hydraulic actuator and electronic controls to advance the position of the modules by approximately two degrees every eight minutes to maximize exposure to the sun. With the tilted axis rotation, these modules can deliver more solar energy throughout the year than if they were fixed or rotated on a horizontal basis. The Gray Wolf facility features eight such trackers. This solar-hybrid site took root in 1999. The Arizona Department of Commerce Energy Office, working in partnership with APS, attained a U.S. Department of Energy grant that resulted in partial funding for the Gray Wolf Solar-Hybrid Power System. The hope is that this project will lead to many subsequent systems being installed in Arizona and around the United States. From Sol-Mates, Spring 2003 ARIZONA LAW AIMED AT STATE ENERGY BILLS —Energy Efficiency Law Will Help Reduce State’s Energy Appetite Mike Fimea writes in the 8 May Arizona Business Gazette about a new Arizona law will reduce the state's energy appetite over the next eight years. Fimea notes that House Bill 2324, sponsored by Rep. Randy Graf (R-Green Valley) and signed into law on 28 April, requires three state agencies - the departments of Transportation and Administration and the Board of Regents - to cut their energy use 10 percent before 1 July 2008, and 15 percent before 1 July 2011. The savings will be based on energy use during fiscal 2002. He reports that the state could save nearly $600,000 on utility costs for buildings near the state Capitol and the Administration Department complex in Tucson. "This is an achievable goal compared to what is required at the federal level and by other states and municipalities," said Jeff Schlegel, Arizona representative for the Southwest Energy Efficiency Project, a public interest group that promotes energy conservation in six Western states. "The guidelines in place are meaningful," said Graf. "Could they have been more aggressive? Absolutely. But what we have in place will allow state agencies to set bench marks, begin thinking about reducing their energy needs and budget accordingly." The full article is available on the Arizona Business Gazette’s website. WILDFIRE FODDER MAY OFFER ENERGY FOR HOMES Ann Schrader writes in the 11 May Denver Post that “[t]hick stands of trees, deadfall and brush that could feed potential forest fires also could provide an alternative source of energy under a proposal discussed in Jefferson County…The project entails placing a semi-mobile facility into the forest where the wood - called biomass - could be chipped into small pieces for conversion into energy.” Jefferson County Commissioner Rick Sheehan, who is spearheading the project, notes that the unit would cost $2 million to $4 million, and would generate 3 to 5 megawatts of electricity: “enough to meet the daily needs of 5,000 households.” For more details, read the Denver Post article. ALTIRA TO FUND ENERGY STARTUPS Steve Raabe reports in the 28 May Denver Post that the Denver-based Altira Group LLC (with an office in Albuquerque, N.M.) has raised $64 million to fund young energy technology companies. Raabe writes that “Altira plans to invest the money in firms with promising technologies used in the oil and gas, electrical power and renewable energy industries” and that the firm will target North American energy-related companies for investments of $1 million to $3 million each. "Our entire premise is that energy is the largest industry on the planet - a $3 trillion industry," said Dirk McDermott, Altira founder and managing partner. Read Raabe’s entire article in the Denver Post. JACK STONE Paula Robinson of the National Renewable Energy Laboratory writes on 13 May: “It is with sadness that we inform you that Jack L. Stone, our friend and colleague for many years, passed away on Friday, May 9, 2003. He never regained consciousness after suffering an apparent heart attack on April 29.” “Jack had more than 35 years of engineering experience, having received his Ph.D. in electrical engineering from the University of Texas at Austin in 1969. His tenure at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory began on July 3, 1978. He was a Principal Scientist in the National Center for Photovoltaics, serving as Project Leader for the International Market and Applications Development project. He formerly served as Division Director for NREL's Solar Electric Research and was the Technical Director for Photovoltaics. Most recently, he produced the daily international Internet newsletter, the NCPV Hotline. In September 2001, Jack was honored with the 4th Paul Rappaport Award "for his outstanding leadership in the field of photovoltaics" and was elevated to senior member in the IEEE.” Jack Stone’s daily “NCPV Hotline” provided invaluable information to the solar energy community and was a tremendous source of information for this newsletter. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Colorado Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. LOS ALAMOS RACES TO HARNESS HYDROGEN AS FUEL —New Mexico Preparing to Position State as Hydrogen Leader Adam Rankin reports in the 24 April Albuquerque Business Journal: “Sixty years ago, Los Alamos National Laboratory scientists unleashed the power of atomic energy with the development of the first nuclear bomb. Today, LANL scientists are quietly providing some of the key technological breakthroughs for a new kind of energy based on hydrogen fuel cells.” “With the technical expertise of the state's national labs and the potential for a renewable energy whose only byproduct is water, Gov. Bill Richardson is looking to position New Mexico at the forefront of a new hydrogen-based economy.” Ken Stroh, a scientist with LANL's hydrogen fuel cell research team, says that “[w]ith the help of the state and its alliance of industry, business and research institutions, there is a good chance fuel cell technology will survive to be a major economic driver and a clean source of renewable energy.” Read the full story of New Mexico’s push to become a national leader in hydrogen development in the Albuquerque Business Journal. ENERGY DEPARTMENT TO FUND EIGHT NATIVE AMERICAN TRIBES TO DEVELOP RENEWABLE ENERGY —New Mexico’s Taos Pueblo Among Recipients Secretary of Energy Spencer Abraham announced on 24 April that the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is making $1.3 million available to eight Native American tribes to advance the development of renewable energy technologies on tribal lands. "The Department of Energy is committed to helping Native American tribes develop clean, affordable and reliable energy options," Secretary Spencer Abraham said. "These projects encourage tribal self-sufficiency, help create jobs, improve our environmental quality and make our nation more secure." Among the eight tribes receiving awards is the Taos Pueblo in Taos County. The award will help fund a site-wide examination of the reservation to determine the best location for development of renewable energy technologies that respect the cultural beliefs of the tribe. Read the full DOE press release. PACIFICORP UTILITIES LOWER “BLUE SKY” WIND PREMIUM Pacific Power and Utah Power, both subsidiaries of PacifiCorp, announced that they are lowering the price of wind energy offered through the "Blue Sky" green pricing program "because of greater customer participation, improved technology and the reduced cost of acquiring renewable power." Effective May 1, the price will drop from $2.95 per 100-kWh block to $1.95 per block, or 1.95¢/kWh. More than 10,600 customers of the two utilities have enrolled in the program since it was unveiled in 2000. From U.S. Department of Energy’s Green Power Network and Utah Power press release. UTAH WIND WEBSITE LAUNCHED The Utah Energy Office has launched a new website, “Harvesting Utah Winds.” Featuring a wealth of information on Utah’s wind resource, the site offers news and technical information for landowners, developers, and other interested parties in Utah. The site contains information on the state’s anemometer loan program, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Wind Powering America Initiative, and it will soon display a map showing the monthly anemometer data sets for anemometers that are currently on loan. Visit this site at http://www.wind.utah.gov/. NATIONAL NEWS SENATE TO CONSIDER ENERGY BILL NEXT WEEK The U.S. Senate will consider S. 14, its Energy Bill, next week as time permits. Of great interest to renewable energy advocates is a possible amendment implementing a national renewable energy standard similar to one which passed the Senate last year (but failed to become law when the U.S. House and Senate failed to reach consensus on a conference report). See related story in Update of 28 April. NEWS FROM WINDPOWER 2003 —Annual Industry Event Sets Attendance Record The American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) reports that the American wind energy industry concluded its largest, and most successful, conference and exhibition in history, hosting more than 3,400 attendees at the Austin Convention Center in Austin, Texas. During the conference, the Renewable Energy Policy Project released a study that examined wind development nationally and found that large-scale wind facilities do not harm property values. Further AWEA reports that new wind turbine product lines introduced were announced by coalition members GE Wind Energy and Vestas. In addition, NEG Micon announced that it will supply turbines to a new $62 million facility in Oklahoma that will be the largest wind farm in the state. The facility will be developed by coalition member Zilkha Renewable Energy of Houston, Texas. Wind industry awards granted to noted political, legislative, regulatory and business leaders: recipients included Federal Energy Regulatory Commissioners Nora Mead Brownell and William Massey; U.S. Senator Dick Durbin; New York State Governor George Pataki; green power marketer Community Energy (a member of the Western Business Coalition for New Energy Technologies); and utilities Public Service Company of New Mexico and Hull Municipal Light Company. For more information on all these matters, view the AWEA press release issued on 21 May. FARMERS EMBRACE WIND ENERGY'S CLEAN POWER POTENTIAL In the 5 May edition of Agriculture Online, News Editor Cheryl Rainford reports on a recent survey of Corn Belt farmers conducted by the American Corn Growers Association (ACGA) as part of its “Wealth from the Wind” program [see Update of 28 April]. “Farmers overwhelmingly support wind as an alternative energy source, and want utility companies to accept electricity from wind turbines in their power generation mix,” Rainford writes. Rainford writes that a strong majority, 81.2% in the ACGA survey, said they would be more inclined to invest in wind energy because it produces no harmful emissions and helps to clean the environment. “In addition, fully half of the farmers surveyed said they would be willing to invest in wind power projects, and an even greater percentage (59.3%) said they believe wind energy can provide additional farm income to their farming operation.” Other highlights from the ACGA survey include: 93.3% of the farmers surveyed support wind energy. 88.8% want farmers, industry and public institutions to promote wind power as an alternative energy source. 87.5% want utility companies to accept electricity from wind turbines in their power generation mix. 81.2% said they would be more inclined to invest in wind energy because it produces no harmful emissions and helps to clean the environment. 82.2% agree that rural electric cooperatives should help support and promote wind energy. 75.7% want federal action to encourage upgrading of existing electric transmission lines and construction of new lines as a 'farm-to-market' road to deliver electricity from wind farms to consumers. ACGA says its random, scientific survey was conducted by Robinson and Muenster Associates, Inc. of Sioux Falls, South Dakota during the first half of April 2003. A total of 511 farmers were polled. Respondents were in the 14 states that represent 68.2 million acres, or 86% of the 79 million acres USDA expects will be planted to corn in 2003. The largest number of farmers surveyed was in Iowa. For the full story, read the article in Agriculture Online. EXXON BACKS GROUPS THAT QUESTION GLOBAL WARMING Jennifer Lee writes in the 27 May New York Times that “Exxon Mobil has publicly softened its stance toward global warming over the last year, with a pledge of $10 million in annual donations for 10 years to Stanford University for climate research.” However, “[a]t the same time, the company, the world's largest oil and gas concern, has increased donations to Washington-based policy groups that, like Exxon itself, question the human role in global warming and argue that proposed government policies to limit carbon dioxide emissions associated with global warming are too heavy handed…Exxon now gives more than $1 million a year to such organizations, which include the Competitive Enterprise Institute, Frontiers of Freedom, the George C. Marshall Institute, the American Council for Capital Formation Center for Policy Research and the American Legislative Exchange Council.” Lee notes that these organizations are “modest in size but have been outspoken in the global warming debate.” To read the entire article, visit the New York Times website (one-time registration required). EIA ISSUES FAQ FOR ALTERNATIVE FUELS The U.S. Department of Energy’s Energy Information Administration has launched a web page at http://www.eia.doe.gov/cneaf/alternate/page/faq.html addressing a broad range of questions relating to the domestic market for alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs) and alternative transportation fuels. Topics include, but are not limited to: forecasts; geographical locations; estimates of AFVs; flex-fueled vehicles; alternative fuel refueling; AFV funding, taxes, and incentives; hybrid electric vehicles; fuel cell vehicles and alternative fuel prices. USDA EXTENDS DEADLINE FOR GRANT APPLICATIONS FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY INITIATIVES The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Business-Cooperative Service (RBS) has extended until 27 June the deadline (previously 6 June) for submitting applications for grant funds to purchase renewable energy systems and make energy efficiency improvements for agricultural producers and rural small businesses under Title IX, Section 9006, pursuant to enactment of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002. For further information, interested parties can contact USDA Rural Development State Offices. A related story on this appeared in the 28 April Update. NREL RELEASES NEW REPORT: “BRIDGING THE VALLEY OF DEATH: TRANSITIONING FROM PUBLIC TO PRIVATE SECTOR FINANCING” The National Renewable Energy Laboratory has released a new report entitled “Bridging the Valley of Death: Transitioning from Public to Private Sector Financing.” Written by NREL’s L. M. Murphy and P. L. Edwards of Altira Group LLC, this paper focuses on the difficulties in the hand-off to private sector investors of publicly funded, early stage technology investment opportunities in entrepreneurial ventures. This report (NREL/MP-720-34036) is available for downloading at http://www.nrel.gov/docs/gen/fy03/34036.pdf. INTERNATIONAL NEWS INSURERS WEIGH MOVES TO CUT LIABILITY FOR GLOBAL WARMING —Directors, Officers Could Face the Denial Of Coverage After Rules Are Implemented In its 7 May edition, Jeffrey Ball reports in the Wall Street Journal that “Zurich-based insurance powerhouse Swiss Re is considering denying coverage, starting with directors-and-officers liability policies, to companies it decides aren't doing enough to reduce their output of the gases.” Ball adds that “Swiss Re plans to start mailing out questionnaires in the next few weeks in which it will ask the buyers of directors-and-officers insurance what they are doing to prepare for imminent government restrictions on greenhouse-gas emissions. If Swiss Re decides a client isn't doing enough, it may consider refusing the company D&O coverage when, in a few years, certain countries begin implementing those rules.” He quotes Christopher Walker, managing director for a unit Swiss Re set up in 2001 to look at the corporate implications of global warming: "Emissions reductions are going to be required. It's pretty clear…So companies that are not looking to develop a strategy for that are potentially exposing themselves and their shareholders." The full article is available on the Wall Street Journal’s website to subscribers. *UPCOMING EVENTS:* Arizona Southwest Renewable Energy Fair Flagstaff, 8-10 August 2003 “Mark your calendar for the 2003 Southwest Renewable Energy Fair, the Southwest’s premier event for renewable energy outreach and networking.” “This year’s theme is ‘Power Up, Build Green, Drive Clean.’ We’ll showcase the latest technologies and products for solar, wind, biomass and geothermal energy; green building; and alternative-fuel vehicles.” For more information on this annual fair, visit http://www.gfec.org/swref/. UPEX 2003: Building the future: Business and State Strategies for Solar Energy Scottsdale, 7-11 October 2003 “Join us in the Valley of the Sun for UPEx 2003. We are assembling a broad group of companies, government agencies, associations and individuals with solar interest and experience beyond the immediate solar community. Some of the themes running throughout the conference will be: Power For Critical Resources and Energy Security Home Builders: Building PV into New Homes Broader Renewable Mandates and the Role of PV Structuring State Solar Programs: RPSs, buy-downs and other options Off-Grid: Providing Power Where There Is No Grid Creative Business Partnership Models Utility-Scale Solar Sustainable Zero Energy Buildings Student Programs: University, High School Level and below Tours Hosted by Salt River Project For more details on this event, visit http://www.solarelectricpower.org/upex/default.cfm. Colorado U.S. Green Building Council Colorado Chapter Monthly Evening Program Denver, 2 June 2003 David Adamson, principal of EcoBuild, a Boulder-based firm, will discuss a variety of methods to increase the use of “green” materials in buildings, add to the value of the project, and increase the well-being of both owner and project eco-proponents. The talk will include methods of materials evaluation, the low-hanging fruit of sustainable materials and design approaches, and design and construction process improvements. Chapter Evening Programs are open to the public; both members and non-members are welcome to this event at the REI Flagship Store, 1416 Platte Street in Denver. Please park in the underground lot in front of the store. Cost is $15 for USGBC Members, $20 for non-members and $10 for students Citizens' Conference on Climate Change and the West: Where We Are and What We Can Do Boulder, 13-15 June 2003 “This is a non-technical conference for concerned citizens, members of the media, school teachers, college instructors, recreationists, church and community groups, elected officials--in short, anyone who is concerned about what is happening now in the West and is likely to continue in the future as the effects of climate change become ever more apparent.” “Hotter summers, warmer winters, severe storms, drought, larger and more frequent forest fires, forest loss, declining streamflows, reduced snowpack--these are all things that the climate change scientists have been trying to warn us about during recent decades and now, all across the West, communities are experiencing just these sorts of extreme and often disastrous events.” “This conference is intended to help the non-specialist understand the basics of climate change, the probable implications for the West and most importantly, the exciting things that can and are being done to move us away from a fossil fuel based economy and towards a cleaner, more efficient and more sustainable economy.” Continuing education credit for teachers is being arranged through the University of Colorado-Boulder. More details on this conference, which will be held at the Millennium Hotel, are available from Leslie Glustrom lglustrom@aol.com or on the Greenhouse Network website www.greenhousenet.org. Registration fees are $100 before 1 June, $125 after 1 June, $150 for an entire family and $30 for students, seniors and limited income. Summer Solstice 160-Meter Bike Sprint Boulder, 15 June 2003 This bike sprint, sponsored by coalition member 21 Wheels, will be held on 15 June from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Pearl Street between 11th and 9th Streets. This event offers “serious prizes and racer bags for all,” and registration is only $10.00. For more details, visit www.21wheels.com. 2003 Consumer Energy Expo Golden, 19-21 June As part of its ongoing effort to educate consumers about renewable energy and energy efficiency resources currently available, the U.S. Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) is holding its annual Consumer Energy Expo. This year’s Expo starts with a Community Open House featuring a preview of the exhibits at NREL's Visitors Center www.nrel.gov/visitors_center, 15013 Denver West Parkway in Golden. During the Expo, the Colorado Energy Science Center is sponsoring consumer Energy Education Sessions featuring experts in energy efficiency and renewable energy for the home. Education sessions will be held Friday and Saturday. The 2003 Consumer Energy Expo will be open during the following times: Thursday 19 June, 5-8 p.m., Community Open House, Exhibit Preview Friday 20 June, 1-7 p.m., Expo and Energy Education Sessions Saturday 21 June, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Expo and Energy Education Sessions Colorado Renewable Energy Conference Montrose, 27-29 June 2003 The 2003 Colorado Renewable Energy Conference will bring together “rural community leaders, citizens, and energy experts at the sixth annual Colorado Renewable Energy Conference in Montrose. At the conference, you will learn how renewable energy and energy efficiency can play a role in the vitality of rural Colorado. You will attend pre-conference workshops on solar applications, hear from award-winning building designers, and visit diverse vendor exhibits. And you will attend activities such as hands-on workshops, technical and plenary sessions, building awards, and a tour of Dennis Weaver’s home.” The conference is sponsored by the Colorado Renewable Energy Society and hosted by coalition member Delta-Montrose Electric Association. For more information, visit http://www.cres-energy.org/conference/index.html. Washington, D.C. NREL Energy Analysis Forum: “Understanding the U.S. Strategic Interests in Expanding Renewable Energy Systems Worldwide” Arlington, Virginia, 11-12 June 2003 The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) is hosting its third Energy Analysis Forum, in collaboration with the Department of Energy (DOE) and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). NREL’ s Energy Analysis Forum focuses on analytic issues and their importance to the nation's energy efficiency and renewable energy programs. These forums are designed to bring together energy analysts with other stakeholders to address analysis related to specific energy technology, policy, or market issues. During this two-day event, participants will examine the national implications of expanded use of renewables worldwide, as well as the status of our understanding of the associated costs and benefits and additional needs for analysis. The forum sessions, which are a combination of presentations and group discussions, will examine the following implications: Global markets - export possibilities and joint ventures Environmental - climate change and air and water quality Energy security - reduced demand for fossil fuels and increased political stability International development - economic growth and energy sufficiency and access The forum is free, but space is limited and conference participants are responsible for their own transportation and lodging costs. The forum will be held at the Hilton Arlington and Towers in Arlington. For more information and registration materials, visit http://www.nrel.gov/analysis. E-mail notification of this newsletter’s availability on www.newenergytechnologies.org is circulated to members of the Western Business Coalition for New Energy Technologies and other interested parties. Please let me know if you would like to be added to or removed from the distribution list. Additional member-only updates are provided to coalition members as events warrant. If your business or non-profit organization is interested in coalition membership, please contact me for more information. The website of the Western Business Coalition for New Energy Technologies at www.newenergytechnologies.org provides full information on our coalition’s activities, as well as copies of previous newsletters, links to coalition members and other sites of interest, a calendar of events and other features designed to be useful to the region’s clean-energy business community. Please continue to keep in touch on any matters related to energy issues and let me know if I can provide any help or information to you. Craig Cox Executive Director Western Business Coalition for New Energy Technologies 303-679-9331 cox@newenergytechnologies.org www.newenergytechnologies.org The Western Business Coalition for New Energy Technologies brings together businesses and non-profit groups to encourage environmentally responsible economic growth through the efficient use of the West’s abundant and clean sources of energy.
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