The new legislation orders the following climate change related initiatives:
To that end, the PSC will review goals set by the state's five largest utilities to reduce carbon emissions 100 pct by 2050 and meet recommendations stemming from Gov. Tony Evers' executive order on clean energy, as well as the Governor's Climate Change Task Force and ideas for accelerating the clean energy transition as outlined by a Wisconsin group of utilities, consumer advocates and business groups. The investigation will also consider:
According to the most recent strategic energy assessment, 75 pct of the state's power is currently generated with fossil fuels. If nuclear were also excluded, 91 pct of the Badger State's power mix would need to be replaced with renewable energy sources.
Under Wisconsin state law, the PSC is required to prioritize energy conservation and efficiency, as well as renewable energy resources, to the extent it's "cost-effective, technically feasible, and environmentally sound."
(Source: Wisconsin Public Service Commission, PR, Wisc. NPR, Mar., 2021) Contact: Wisconsin Public Service Commission, Rebecca Valcq, Chairperson, (608) 266-5481, fax -- (608) 266-3957, www.psc.wi.gov
More Low-Carbon Energy News Wisconsin Public Service Commission, Low-Carbon Energy, Renewable Energy,
The new framework uses American National Standards Institute (ANSI) approved standards process to update the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC).
Download the full Leading the Way to Energy Efficiency: A Path Forward on Energy and Sustainability to Confront a Changing Climate framework HERE (Source: International Code Council, PR, Mar., 2021) Contact: International Code Council, www.iccsafe.org
More Low-Carbon Energy News International Code Council, Energy Efficiency,
REA counters that such a move would negatively impact businesses and consumers in the short-term as well as undermine confidence in future energy conservation and efficiency initiatives. The association believes long-term strategies around heat decarbonisation are also 'imperative', otherwise a policy gap will quickly emerge with the non-domestic RHI coming to an end and put the government's net-zero ambitions in 'serious jeopardy', according to the REA release.
The REA promotes renewable energy and clean technology industries -- biomass, biogas, waste-to-energy, energy storage, wind, solar, renewable transportation fuels and others -- to grow a sustainable industry and decarbonise society as part of a circular economy. (Source: Association for Renewable Energy and Clean Technology, PR, Feb., 2021)
Contact: Association for Renewable Energy and Clean Technology, Dr. Nina Skorupska, CBE, CEO, www.r-e-a.net
More Low-Carbon Energy News Association for Renewable Energy and Clean Technology ,
The Met-Ed / Penelec Sustainable Energy Fund provide grants, loans, and equity investments to promote development and use of renewable energy and clean energy technologies; energy conservation and efficiency; sustainable energy businesses and projects that improve the environment in the companies' service territories.
Grant applicants must be for projects located in and/or serve residents within the territories of the Met-Ed and Penelec electric companies in Pennsylvania. Funding is prioritized for non-profit entities, however commercial or industrial organizations may qualify. Applications are now open and will be accepted through March 15, with decisions to be made in May 2021. (Source: Met-Ed / Penelec Sustainable Energy Fund, 28 Jan, 2021) Contact: Met-Ed/Penelec Sustainable Energy Fund, 800.732.0999, www.bccf.org/sustainable-energy-fund
More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency, Energy Conservation,
RGIA is a carbon neutral airport with level 3 + Neutrality accreditation from Airports Council International (ACI) under its Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) programme. (Source: RGIA, PR, Telangana Today, 20 Dec., 2020) Contact: Airports Council International,Airport Carbon Accreditationwww.aci.aero
More Low-Carbon Energy News Airports Council International, Airport Carbon Accreditation ,
Download the Task Force on Climate Change report HERE. (Source: Office of Gov. Tony Evers, Madison.com, Dec., 2020) Contact: Office of Gov. Tony Evers, (608) 266-1212, www.evers.wi.gov
More Low-Carbon Energy News Climate Change,
Partly sponsored by the TaiwanBusiness-EBRD Technical Cooperation Fund, the Green Cities Framework aims to achieve the carbon reduction targets set by the Paris Climate Agreement and attract foreign investment by strengthening environmental protection, reducing emissions and conserving energy. The EBRD regions are home to vibrant and diverse cities that span across central Europe to Central Asia, the Western Balkans and the southern and eastern Mediterranean region, according to the EBRD Green Cities website. (Source: City of Warsaw, Taiwan News, 5 Dec., 2020) Contact: EBRD Green Cities Framework, greencities@ebrd.com, www.ebrdgreencities.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News EBRD, Green Cities, Energy Management, Energy Conservation, Energy Efficiency,
The Iowa City Public Works complex achieved 52 pct kBTU energy savings when compared to the CNC's program baseline. This means that the City's Public Works Facility uses less than half the energy as compared to other buildings of the same type and size.
The buildings energy and environmental energy conservation features include: LED lighting, daylight dimming and skylight systems, precast insulated concrete walls, insulated roof with translucent panels; dedicated outdoor air system and others, all of which is projected to realize a $21,000 per year energy costs savings and an anticipated payback within 9.3 years.
(Source: City of Iowa City, PR, Oct., 2020)Contact: Alliant, Jeff Hanson, Environmental Serv. And Sustainability Director, (608) 458-3956, www.alliantenergy.com; MidAmerican Energy, Mike Fehr, VP Resource Development, (888) 427-5632, www.midamericanenergy.com; Iowa City Public Works Dept., 319-356-5140,
www.icgov.org/city-government/departments-and-divisions/public-works
More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency, Alliant Energy , MidAmerican Energy Company,
Partners in Energy provide communities with the tools and resources necessary to develop and implement an energy action plan that reflects the community's vision for shaping energy use and supply in its future. The program lasts for two years with the initial six to eight months dedicated to developing a strategic energy action plan and the remaining time focused on the implementing that plan.
Communities accepted into the Partners in Energy initiative work with an Xcel Energy team that provides guidance, education, and resources for city staff, businesses and residents as they work to achieve measurable energy goals by a specified target date. While each community's energy action plan is unique, all plans identify strategies to meet specific goals. For example, they could include an education plan on energy conservation, finding ways to finance renewable energy sources such as wind and solar for city buildings, or promoting green technologies to businesses and residents. (Source: City of Richfield, PR, 2 Sept., 2020) Contact: Xcel Energy, www.xcelenergy.com, Xcel Energy Partners in Energy Initiative, www.xcelenergy.com/working_with_us/municipalities/partners_in_energy
More Low-Carbon Energy News Xcel Energy, Energy Efficiency,
SRK House scored 86 points out of 100 in LEED certification eligibility eith energy efficiency initiatives that included: addressing the increasing demand of energy due to growth with the ISO 50002 Energy Audit; improved waste management practices; increased use of renewable energy sources; increased recycling; energy benchmarking; regular CIO2 disinfection for the indoor areas ; Natural Cooling through out; low-flow plumbing fixtures for water conservation; rainwater harvesting and other energy conservation and efficiency initiatives and features. (Source: SRK House, PR, Instore Mag., 25 Aug., 2020)
More Low-Carbon Energy News LEED Platinum news, Energy Efficiency news,
More Low-Carbon Energy News LEED Platinum, Energy Efficiency,
SRK House scored 86 points out of 100 in LEED certification eligibility with energy efficiency initiatives that included: addressing the increasing demand of energy due to growth with the ISO 50002 Energy Audit; improved waste management practices; increased use of renewable energy; increased recycling; energy benc-hmarking; regular CIO2 disinfection for the indoor areas; natural cooling and lighting; low-flow plumbing fixtures for water conservation; rainwater harvesting and other energy conservation and efficiency initiatives and features. (Source: SRK House, PR, Instore Mag., 25 Aug., 2020) Contact: USGBC, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org; Shree Ramkrishna Exports, +91 261 404 0544, www.srkexport.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News USGBC, LEED Platinum, Energy Efficiency,
To find energy savings and efficiency opportunities, Cenergistic tracked energy consumption at all campuses to identify waste, drive energy efficiency and conservation and deploy energy-using systems across the organization to achieve peak efficiency. During the COVID-19 shutdown, Cenergistic continues to monitor district facilities for energy inefficiencies both onsite and through online technology.
Since 1986 Cenergistic has partnered with 1470+ educational, municipal government and healthcare organizations to achieve $5.8 billion in utility savings and cost avoidance. These strong results come from the application of Cenergistic's organizational behavior-based strategies and are enhanced by our proprietary software platform to drive building and equipment optimization. The company's energy conservation program reduces utility consumption by an average of 25 pct with no capital investment while maintaining or improving the comfort and quality of building environments, according to Cenergistic. (Source: Piscataway Township Schools, Cenergistic, PR, TAPinto.net, 18 Aug., 2020) Contact: Cenergistic, www.cenergistic.com; Piscataway Township Schools, www.piscatawayschools.org
More Low-Carbon Energy News Cenergistic, Energy Efficiency,
Environmental and sustainability projects implemented by Sharjah Airport include energy conservation initiatives, clean energy projects and circular economic initiatives to encourage all stakeholders of the airport to engage and contribute to good practice. Besides strictly monitoring electricity and water consumption in the airport, an integrated waste management system, targeted at zero landfill waste was introduced.
(Source: Sharjah Airport , PR, Emirates News Agency, 16 Aug., 2020) Contact: Airport Carbon Accreditation, www.aci.aer
More Low-Carbon Energy News Carbon Neutral, Airport Carbon Accreditation ,
The Energy Efficiency Kit includes: 14 LED light bulbs of varying sizes; 1 advanced power strip; 1 thermostatic valve showerhead; and 2 sink aerators. The kits are intended to help the utility's customers reduce energy consumption and cut energy costs.
Energy Conservation Works operates in partnership with the Town of Jackson, Teton County, Lower Valley Energy, and a wide spectrum of organizations to implement and advocate for energy conservation and emissions reduction in Jackson Hole.
Contact: Lower Valley Energy, (307) 885-3175, www.lvenergy.com; Energy Conservation Works -- Jackson Hole, www.energyconservationworks.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency,
The statewide plan will invest $1 billion through 2025, half of which will be used to "improve energy efficiency in affordable multifamily buildings". More then $300 million has been earmarked to "reduce energy burdens by increasing access to energy efficiency for low and moderate income homeowners and renters" and $45 million has been allocated for "community-level engagement and capacity building with community-based organizations."
The new $1 billion initiative complements other efforts statewide to blunt the impact of high utility costs, including NYC's recently announced $70 million initiative to assist residents with their utility bills as well as the gifting of 74,000 free air conditioning units to the city's low-income seniors. (Source: NYSERDA, Grist, 4 Aug., 2020) Contact: Office of NY Gov. Andrew Cuomo, Press Office, (518) 474-8418, (212) 682-4640, Press.Office@exec.ny.gov; NYSERDA, Doreen Harris, Acting CEO, (518) 862-1090, www.nyserda.ny.gov
More Low-Carbon Energy News NYSERDA, Energy Efficiency,
Self-funded by an Energy Savings Performance Contract (ESPC), the project comes at no upfront cost to the City and will involve replacing more than 3,800 lighting fixtures with new energy efficient Light Emitting Diodes (LED). The total project will accrue $12.2 million in cost savings over the contract term. The project is slated for completion in September 2020.
Details on Ameresco's LED street and area lighting projects HERE. (Source: Ameresc, PR, Yahoo, 22 July, 2020)
Contact: Ameresco, David J. Anderson, EVP, (508) 661-2288, www.ameresco.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Ameresco, LED, Street Light.LED Light,
The new facility will generate sufficient renewable energy on-site to cover 100 pct of its annual energy needs. McDonald's will also use the flagship as a learning hub to test energy efficiency measures for future operations. Data and learnings from the new restaurant will also support McDonald's global sustainability efforts, including progressing toward the company's science-based target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 36 pct in restaurants and offices by 2030 compared to a 2015 base year.
The new flagship restaurant features: an 8,000 square-foot , 1,066 panel solar roof; photovoltaic glass panels integrated throughout the building, 1,700 square feet of green, plant-covered "living walls", low flow plumbing fixtures; waste water capture and reuse; and louvers that open and close automatically to inhale cool air in and exhale warm air.
To solidify the restaurant's Net Zero Energy status, McDonald's will also pursue the International Living Future Institute's Zero Energy Certification over the next year. (Source: McDonald's, PR, Catering Insight, July, 2020)
More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency, Energy Conservation,
Biodesign Institute C, which is also LEED Platinum certified by the US Green Building Council,
is the third building in a set of four ASU scientific complexes focused on bio-inspired research for global impact. The building's sustainability and energy conservation features include: active chilled beams, which permit decoupling of space cooling loads from the required ventilation air; an enhanced run-around loop (ERAL) system in the air handling units; and other energy efficiency features.(Source: ASU, Lab Manager, July, 2020)
Contact: ASU Biodesign Institute C, www.cfo.asu.edu/biodesign-c, USGBC, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org
More Low-Carbon Energy News Arizona State University, USGBC, LEED Certification, Energy Efficiency,
In addition to energy conservation, Food Lion adheres to sustainable sourcing standards, increased recycling to divert more waste from landfills, the use of motion sensor equipped energy efficient LED lighting and other sustainability and energy efficiency efforts.
Since 2000, Food Lion's energy reductions in carbon emissions are equivalent to supplying the energy needed to charge more than 75.3 billion smart phones or providing 70,717 neighbors homes' energy for one year.
(Source: Food Lion, PR, 10 July, 2020) Contact: Food Lion, Matt Yates, VP Brand Strategy, Kelly Powell, 704-310-3886, Kelly.powell@foodlion.com, www.foodlion.com; ENERGY STAR , energystar.gov/about and energystar.gov/numbers
More Low-Carbon Energy News ENERGY STAR, Energy Efficiency,
Delaware first established a minimum statewide code for energy conservation in 1979. The code, which is based on standards set by the International Code Council (ICC) and the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHREA) was last updated in 2009.
The update includes a six-month transition period, during which the Division of Climate, Coastal and Energy will provide targeted training and technical assistance to the construction industry and code enforcement officials. Topics covered by the training will include an overview of the changes, practical compliance strategies, particularly for the building envelope requirements in the new energy codes, construction and design strategies for air sealing smaller homes, and hot water pipe insulation and HVAC duct design.
(Source: DNREC, Cape Gazette, June, 2020) Contact: DNREC Division of Climate, Coastal and Energy, www.dnrec.alpha.delaware.gov/climate-coastal-energy
More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency, Building Energy, Energy Consumption, ASHRAE,
To find savings, CCSD personnel worked closely with Cenergistic engineers, experts, and energy specialists to audit and optimize energy-using systems across the school district to achieve peak efficiency. Cenergetic tracked energy consumption at all CCSD campuses through state-of-the-art smart technology to identify and correct areas that need immediate attention.
Since 2016, Cenergetic has created more than $7 million in savings, seen 61 different facilities gain ENERGY STAR® certification, and created a culture of sustainability among students and staff. The energy saved from the program equates to avoiding the carbon emissions produced by the average car driving approximately 100 million miles, according to the company. (Source: Cenergetic, Website, June, 2020)
Contact: Cenergistic, Dr. Wm. Spears, CEO, (855) 798-7779, info@cenergistic.com, www.cenergistic.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Cenergetic news, Energy Efficiency news,
PACE loans are long term, fixed rate, non-recourse loans secured by assessments on the property with priority equal to property tax.
PACE provides commercial real estate financing for HVAC systems, lighting, energy efficiency, energy conservation measures, water conservation such as low flow toilets and low flow fixtures, as well as renewable energy systems.
(Source: City of Norfolk, WJAG, 2 June, 2020) Contact: City of Norfolk, (402) 844-2000, www.norfolkne.gov
More Low-Carbon Energy News C-PACE news, PACE news, Energy Efficiency news,
By utilizing an Energy Savings Performance Contract, the State will save energy without incurring any up-front costs and pay for the energy improvements with the realized energy savings, estimated to be over $4 million over the 20-year contract term.
Specific energy conservation measures include: lighting system improvements, new energy management systems, demand-controlled ventilation, chiller replacement, new windows, high-efficiency pumps, infiltration reductions, pipe insulation, new transformers, three solar PV arrays and automatic temperature controls, all of which is expected to be complete
in March 2021. (Source: Ameresco, PR, Renewables 11 May, 2020) Contact: Ameresco, David J. Anderson, Exec.VP, (508) 661-2288, www.ameresco.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Ameresco, Energy Efficiency,
The State code is based on the 2018 International Energy Conservation Code and ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2016. The 2020 NYCECC will become effective May 12, 2020, the same effective date as the state's energy code which aligns the code with the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) NYStretch Energy Code-2020, as adopted by the New York City Council on March 29, 2020.
The 2020 New York City Energy Code includes energy efficiency requirements help to improve overall building envelope performance through installation of better performing and more energy efficient windows and other initiatives.
Access the 2020 NYC Energy Conservation Code HERE (Source: NYC City Council, Door & Window Market, 8 May, 2020)
More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency, Building Energy Eficiency, Energy Management, Energy Conservation, ASHRAE, NYSERDA,
Additionally, Talkpool's LoRa-based solutions assist in establishing building compliance with leading sustainability initiatives including LEED and BREEAM certifications.
IoT networks based on the LoRaWAN® specification have been deployed in 100 countries. (Source: Semtech, PR, April, 2020)
Contact: TalkPool, www.talkpool.com; Semtech, Ronda Grech,
(805) 250-1263, rgrech@semtech.com, www.semtech.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Semtech, Energy Conservation, Energy Management, Energy Efficiency,
The NYStretch Energy Code-2020 Version 1.0 was adopted by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority and calls for incrementally higher efficiency standards in new and renovated buildings.
According to NYSERDA, adopting NYStretch will provide savings of roughly 11 pct over the 2020 Energy Conservation Construction Code of New York State when that energy code is released by the state department of state.
Download NY Stretch Energy Code details HERE. (Source: City of Beacon, MidHudson News, 26 April, 2020) Contact; City of Beacon, 845-838-5020, www.cityofbeacon.org; NYSERDA, Alicia Barton, Pres., CEO, (518) 862-1090, www.nyserda.ny.gov
More Low-Carbon Energy News NYSERDA, Energy Efficiency,
Additionally, the board will create a more ambitious 15-year-compliance pathway for buildings that stand to benefit from deep energy improvements and can achieve energy performance well beyond the required performance standard.
Other benefits for St. Louis residents from the adoption of the BEPS policy include:
• Cost Savings: While an initial investment may be required, energy efficiency improvements pay back quickly and result in significant operational cost savings over time. The savings incurred from the BEPS ordinance will go directly to St. Louis residents and businesses and will also help preserve the city’s existing building stock.
• Smarter Buildings: Improving building performance enables building owners an opportunity to capitalize on new technologies and operational practices that allow their buildings to be more responsive to daily demands and conditions, thus becoming more productive and affordable.
• A Stronger Local Economy: The BEPS ordinance will help add to the estimated 42,000 jobs in Missouri’s energy efficiency industry by creating new jobs for local energy auditors, architects, engineers, electricians, plumbers, roofers, technicians and other contractors who sell energy-efficient services, products, and technologies.
• A More Resilient St. Louis: Investing in building energy improvements enables them to operate better, be more durable, and better withstand the more frequent extreme weather events associated with climate change.
• A Cleaner, More Productive Energy Supply: A thoughtfully set standard will improve energy use across all buildings to better enable and support our local utilities’ transition to a low- and no-carbon renewable energy supply.
• Increased Capacity for Electricity: As the city transitions to greener energy, it is still dependent on an electric grid that can be overwhelmed due to overuse. Energy efficiency updates relieve grid capacity, increasing grid stability for providing electricity to all St. Louis residents.
St. Louis will be the first in the Midwest and fourth in the nation -- following in the footsteps of New York City, Washington, D.C., and Washington State -- to adopt a Building Energy Performance Standard policy.(Source: St; Louis Post Dispatch, ERDC Blog, Stefan Schaffer , Maria Stamas, 20 April, 2020)
More Low-Carbon Energy News Building Energy Efficiency news, Energy Efficiency news, Energy Conservation news,
Under the energy performance contract (EPC) this second phase includes interior and exterior lighting fixture upgrades, window replacement and improvements to three cogeneration units at other WHA developments. These improvements come at no upfront cost to WHA, which also receives incentives for efficiency improvements from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
(Source: Ameresco, Yahoo Finance, April, 2020)
Contact: Ameresco, Bob Georgeoff, VP, (508) 661-2288, www.ameresco.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Ameresco, Energy Efficiency,
The 2020 Energy Conservation Code was modeled after the 2020 New York State Energy Conservation Construction Code and the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority's (NYSERDA) NYStretch Energy Code, requires new and existing buildings meet the following, effective 12 May:
Under DOE's new rule, federal appliance energy efficiency upgrades must be "significant" -- defined under the rule as saving at least 0.3 quads of energy over 30 years or improving energy use by at least 10 pct above existing standards.
(Source: US DOE, Heartland Institute, 12 Mar., 2020)
More Low-Carbon Energy News Appliance Efficiency, Energy Efficiency,
To that end, the city council wants to retrofit and upgrade the energy efficiency of as many of the 350 city-owned buildings, install solar and wind energy generation capacity on city owned sites and housing complexes, complete the ongoing replacements of the city's street lighting with energy efficient LED lighting, promote energy conservation, incentivize cleaner and more efficient transportation and other energy efficiency initiatives.
Under the plan, the city council will work with and continue to fund the Manchester Climate Change Agency to establish community-wide climate change related engagement activities and to encourage businesses to improve their energy efficiency reduce their carbon footprint. (Source: City of Manchester, Manchester Evening News, Mar.,2020) Contact: Manchester Climate Change Agency, www.manchesterclimate.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency,
the MoU includes several aspects of the conservation, whether for implementing regulations or reviewing the energy of buildings or on raising awareness, conservation technologies, renewable energy and others.
(Source: MENAFN, Pr, 18 Feb., 2020) Contact: National Program for Conservation and Energy Efficiency, www.marhaba.qa/tag/national-programme-for-conservation-and-energy-efficiency
More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency, Energy Conservation,
The utility claims the effort saved 1.6 billion kilowatt hours of energy since Jan. 1, 2014, the equivalent of powering 191,530 homes for one year.
Business customers saved money in the past six years by completing 20,000 energy efficiency projects, which earned them a collective $161 million in rebates and incentives, according to PSEG Long Island. The installed energy conservation measures are expected to save 633 million kWh in annual energy savings.
(Source: PSEG, PR, Long Island Bus. News, 6 Jan., 2020) Contact: PSEG Long Island, , Michael Voltz, Director of Energy Efficiency and Renewables, www.psegliny.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News PSEG Long Island, Energy Efficiency ,
"Some may debate how this happened, but that doesn't change the need to address it. Although our collective use of fossil fuels for energy has enabled remarkable economic development, the use of fossil fuels has also resulted in substantial emissions of carbon dioxide, and the cost of these emissions has not been reflected in the price of energy. As a matter of policy, this should change.
"IBM is no newcomer to the realm of climate change. In 2017, we reaffirmed our support for the 2015 Paris Agreement to limit global warming to below 2 degrees C above pre-industrial levels. Our commitment to the Paris Agreement builds on a long history of leadership in this space. In 1992 IBM helped the U.S. EPA launch the ENERGY STAR program. In 1994 we began to voluntarily disclose carbon dioxide emissions associated with IBM's consumption of energy and have done so annually now for 26 years. And in 2015, IBM was one of the first signatories to the American Business Act on Climate Pledge to demonstrate our support for the Paris Agreement.
"Performance is a key measure of commitment. IBM has reduced the carbon dioxide emissions associated with our consumption of energy by 32 pct since 2005. We are on track to achieve our goal of a 40 pct reduction by 2025, a rate consistent with what scientists say is needed to limit warming to between 1.5 and 2.0 degrees C. Energy conservation has been -- and remains -- a key ingredient for this. IBM continues to rigorously conserve energy equal to at least 3 pct of its annual consumption, something we have done for decades. Reducing consumption, when possible, is preferable to purchasing offsets.
"Responsible companies should also make transparent commitments regarding their consumption of renewable energy. Today, 38 pct of the global electricity IBM consumes comes from renewable sources, and we aim to increase this to 55 pct by 2025. Importantly, IBM does not rely upon the purchase of unbundled Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) to offset its consumption of electricity from fossil fuels and thereby claim the company is a certain 'percent renewable.' Transparency matters in the transition away from carbon-based fuels, which is why our reporting about the use of renewables reflects our actual physical and matched consumption of renewable electricity.
"Climate change is real, and that is why IBM supports a responsible plan to tax carbon emissions. It is also why IBM supports the Paris Agreement and is on track as a company to reduce emissions associated with our consumption of energy consistent with what scientists say is needed. And it is why we are making transparent our own use of renewable energy and aiming to increase that use substantially.
"The enormity of the challenge requires more than business as usual. Putting a price on carbon emissions requires a plan in which economies will keep growing, but in a way that addresses the risks of a changing climate. We believe the Climate Leadership Council plan is the best way to secure agreement for action, and IBM will work to build support for it with elected officials, corporate colleagues, and our fellow citizens." (Source: IBM-The Weather Company (an IBM company), 2 Dec., 2019)
More Low-Carbon Energy News IBM, Carbon Tax, Climate Change,
. Under FEECA, the state Public Service Commission (PSC) is mandated to set energy conservation and efficiency goals for utilities every five years. The utilities are in turn required to offer energy conservation and efficiency goals and incentives -- LED light bulbs, attic insulation, water heater wraps and others -- to utility customers and add the cost of the programs to customers' power bills. The PSC previously rejected a call from the state's utilities to eliminate the FEECA program completely.
FEECA uses the rate impact measure (RIM) to measure the impact and effectiveness of energy conservation programs on customers based on costs, not on the net savings produced by lowering energy consumption. (Source: Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Miami-Herald, Contact: Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, 800-435-7352, www.fdacs.gov
More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency news,
The solar PV system will be installed by Naperville-based Bright Life Renewable Energy, LLC. Bright Life initiated the C-PACE application with their client through the IECA,
a not-for-profit organization committed to bringing C-PACE program administration to the Chicagoland area. (Source: Illinois Energy Conservation Authority, PR, RE Journals, Nov., 2019) Contact: Illinois Energy Conservation Authority, www.iecapace.org; C-PACE Alliance, Cliff Kellogg (202) 744-1984, ckellogg@c-pacealliance.com, www.c-pacealliance.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News C-PACE, Energy Efficiency,
Massachusetts placed first for the ninth year in a row on the strength of its 2008 Green Communities Act and Global Warming Solutions Act calling for increased energy efficiency and an 80 pct reduction in GHG emissions statewide by 2050. The state also adopted the 2018 International Energy Conservation Code.
The ACEEE report reviews states' efficiency initiatives and policies on utilities, transportation, building codes, appliances, and combined heat and power. (Source: American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, Nov., 2019)
Contact: American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, Steven Nadel, Exec. Dir., (202) 507-4000, (202) 429-2248 - fax, www.aceee.org
More Low-Carbon Energy News American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, Energy Efficiency,
The Green Investment Programme
will direct funds to asset managers who will in turn invest the funds in public market firms focused on
introducing environmental and sustainability considerations into investments in renewable and bioenergy technology, grid infrastructure, battery storage, green buildings, energy efficiency and optimizing energy conservation and consumption.
(Source: Monetary Authority of Singapore, International Finance, 12 Nov., 2019) Contact:
Monetary Authority of Singapore, +65 6225 5577,
+65 6229-9229 -- fax, (212) 809 1900 -- US Office, www.mas.gov.sg
More Low-Carbon Energy News Green Finance, Green Bond, Renewable Energy, Energy Efficiency, Climate Change,
The new code will help both consumers and municipalities interested in voluntarily adopting higher efficiency standards for new and renovated building construction projects.
NYStretch is expected to deliver roughly 11 pct in energy savings over the model energy codes that will be the basis for the 2020 Energy Conservation Construction Code of New York State (2020 ECCC-NYS), with ROI ranging from 6to 12 years.
(Source: NYSERDA, 11 Oct., 2019)Contact: NYSERDA, Alicia Barton, Pres., CEO, (518) 862-1090, www.nyserda.ny.gov
More Low-Carbon Energy News NYSERDA, Energy Efficiency, Building Energy Efficiency,
An independent program administrator will link potential borrowers with approved lenders..
The county would collect loan payments and interest over time through an assessment on the borrower's property tax bill to pay off the lien.
The next step for Lake County officials is requesting proposals from companies interested in administering the program. Programs in DuPage County and Kane County are run by the not-for-profit Illinois Energy Conservation Authority . (Source: Lake County, Daily Herald, 14 Oct., 2019) Contact: Lake County Administration, 847-377-2250, www.lakecountyil.gov
More Low-Carbon Energy News PACE, Energy Efficiency, PACE financing,
.
The new rules could make less-efficient bulbs for certain fixtures more common, potentially contributing to man-made climate change by increasing greenhouse gas emissions. Politically, it's part of the Trump administration's efforts to roll back climate and other environmental regulations.
Energy conservation groups are expected to mount challenges to the Trump administration's move that is widely thought to border on "senseless." (Source: US DOE, NYT, 4 Sept., 2019)
More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficient Light, Energy Efficiency,
Brampton is aiming foe a 30 pct emission reduction by 2030 and 80 pct by 2025. The interim target has been set to reduce GHG emissions by 20 per cent by 2024.
In a release, the city notes has recovered $5.8 million in costs through energy-efficient programs, third-party funding, energy procurement and water rebates
since 2014
and has introduced more than 13 renewable energy projects implemented 50 energy conservation projects in its effort to address emissions and climate change.
(Source: City of Brampton, Brampton Guardian, 3 Sept., 2019)
Contact: City of Brampton, 905.874.2130, www.brampton.ca
More Low-Carbon Energy News Carbon Emissions, Climate Change,
.
The new rules could make less-efficient bulbs for certain fixtures more common, potentially contributing to man-made climate change by increasing greenhouse gas emissions. Politically, it's part of the Trump administration's efforts to roll back climate and other environmental regulations.
Energy conservation groups are expected to mount challenges to the Trump administration's move that borders on senseless. (Source: US DOE, NYT, 4 Sept., 2019)
More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficient Light,
Kenya presently uses foreign based green building certification tools like Green Star Rating System, U.S. Green Building Council Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) and Environmental Design for Greater Efficiencies (EDGE).
(Source: Architectural Association of Kenya, Kenya Standard, 29 Aug., 2019) Contact: Architectural Association of Kenya, Gideon Olawo, Environmental Design Chairman, +254 20 2224806, www.aak.or.ke
More Low-Carbon Energy News Green Building, Energy Efficiency,
Of the survey respondents planning to remodel their existing homes, 81 pct said they'd be willing to pay 20 pct to 30 pct more on the cost of their projects to achieve NZE.
Construction professionals estimate, on average, that it would cost 36 pct more for a home to meet ZNE standards compared to a standard home.
(Source: Propane Education & Research Council, Realty Business News, 25 Aug., 2019) Contact: Propane Education & Research Council, www.propane.com
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The retrofit program would be managed by Efficiency Manitoba, a crown corporation focused on energy conservation, which was created to take over Manitoba Hydro's Power Smart program.
Rebates would apply to retrofit windows and doors, furnace conversions and appliances purchased to make homes and businesses emit less greenhouse gases.
It would reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 135,000 tonnes over the next three years. (Source: Efficiency Manitoba, CBC, 17 Aug., 2019) Contact: Efficiency Manitoba, www.efficiencymb.ca
More Low-Carbon Energy News Efficiency Manitoba, Energy Efficiency, Energy Efficiency Rebate,
Energy saving measures include: a new district heating network to supply heat and power to University buildings; new energy efficient LED lighting; installation of solar energy arrays on select buildings; smart building management systems; HVAC system upgrades, and others.
The project is funded through the Scottish Government Non-Domestic Energy Efficiency (NDEE) Framework and will be completed by sustainable energy, energy efficiency specialists Vital Energi.
(Source: University of St. Andrews, Renewable Energy, Aug., 2019)
Contact: University of St. Andrews, +44 (0) 1334 47 6161 , www.st-andrews.ac.uk; Vital Energi, +44 0 1254 296 000, sales@vitalenergi.co.uk, www.vitalenergi.co.uk
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Alexander Ablaza, president of the not-for-profit Philippine Energy Efficiency Alliance, Inc. (PE2), said his group was preparing an industry position on the accreditation guidelines and other related issues.(Source: Philippines DoE, Jul 22, 2019)
(Contact: Philippine Energy Efficiency Alliance, www.pe2.org
More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency,