Going 100% Green Will Pay For Itself in Seven Years, Study Finds
A Stanford University professor whose research helped underpin the U.S. Democrats’ Green New Deal says phasing out fossil fuels and running the entire world on clean energy would pay for itself in under seven years.
It would cost $73 trillion to revamp power grids, transportation, manufacturing and other systems to run on wind, solar and hydro power, including enough storage capacity to keep the lights on overnight, Mark Jacobson said in a study published Friday in the journal One Earth. But that would be offset by annual savings of almost $11 trillion, the report found.
“There’s really no downside to making this transition,” said Jacobson, who wrote the study with several other researchers. “Most people are afraid it will be too expensive. Hopefully this will allay some of those fears.”
Read more at Bloomberg
If the World ran on Sun, It wouldn’t Fight over Oil
by Bill McKibben
No one will ever fight a war over access to sunshine – what would a
country do, set up enormous walls to shade everyone else’s panels?
(Giant walls are hard to build – just ask Trump.) Fossil fuels are
concentrated in a few places, giving those who live atop them enormous
power; renewable energy can be found everywhere, the birthright of all
humans. A world that runs on sun and wind is a world that can relax.
Read more at The Guardian
Warren Buffett is spending billions to make Iowa 'the Saudi Arabia of wind'
Warren Buffett is spending billions to turn Iowa into "the wind capital of the world, the Saudi Arabia of wind," he told the Financial Times.
Berkshire Hathaway's billionaire boss isn't emulating Greta Thunberg, however. Rather than leading the charge on climate change, hoping to cut carbon emissions at any cost, he told the newspaper he was simply taking advantage of government incentives for renewable-energy investments.
"We wouldn't do [it] without the production tax credit we get," he said.
Read more at Business Insider
ExxonMobil Eyes $3.4-$3.6B Gain From Norway Asset Divestment
Exxon Mobil Corporation XOM expects a gain of $3.4-$3.6 billion from the divestment of Norwegian assets. This will likely give a boost to its fourth-quarter 2019 results. The company’s recent regulatory filing showed that the gains from this divestment can offset lower margins from chemicals and refining businesses.
Read more here
New York Confirms Plan for 1GW-Plus Offshore Wind Solicitation in 2020
The Empire State’s second offshore wind procurement targets 1 gigawatt of capacity — “and perhaps substantially more.”
New York confirmed plans to issue its second solicitation for offshore wind farms this year, expected to add at least 1 gigawatt to the state’s pipeline.
The upcoming solicitation, to be overseen once again by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), will run alongside a separate competitive process to award $200 million in public funding for offshore wind-related port infrastructure improvements, according to Governor Andrew Cuomo, who gave his 10th State of the State address on January 9, 2020.
The offshore wind solicitation "is expected to yield at least an additional 1,000 megawatts of clean power, and perhaps substantially more," according to a detailed document (PDF) laying out the various plans in Cuomo's 2020 State of the State.
The new capacity will come on top of the 1.7 gigawatts of capacity the state awarded in its first offshore wind solicitation last summer to developers Ørsted and Equinor.
Read more at Greentech Media
Showing posts with label solar energy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label solar energy. Show all posts
Sunday, January 26, 2020
Saturday, September 14, 2019
Give Wind Energy a Chance — Call your Erie County Legislator
The Erie County Legislature is considering a resolution sponsored by Legislators Dixon and Mills and supported by Chris Collins to preemptively oppose wind development "along the shores of Lake Erie".
The Sierra Club, PUSH Buffalo, the Citizens Campaign for the Environment, and the Building Trades Unions will be testifying against this resolution and in favor of investment in renewable energy and green jobs coupled with a rigorous review of any offshore wind projects to make sure our drinking water and the lake ecology are protected.
We need to ramp up wind and solar exponentially if we are to meet our climate goals and every area with good wind and solar resources needs to be evaluated scientifically and thoroughly. Passage of the Dixon-Mills resolution for the County housing New York's 2nd largest city would essentially sink our State's chances of reaching the adopted goal of 100% carbon free electricity by 2040.
CALL Your Legislator before the Thursday, Sept.19 Hearing and urge them to vote against the Dixon-Mills anti-wind resolution.
Legislator List and Contact Info: click here
District Map: click here
If possible, please join us at the Legislative Hearing:
Thursday, September 19th 1:00-2:30 PM
Erie County Hall, 92 Franklin St. (4th Floor Legislative chamber), Buffalo [Map]
The Sierra Club, PUSH Buffalo, the Citizens Campaign for the Environment, and the Building Trades Unions will be testifying against this resolution and in favor of investment in renewable energy and green jobs coupled with a rigorous review of any offshore wind projects to make sure our drinking water and the lake ecology are protected.
We need to ramp up wind and solar exponentially if we are to meet our climate goals and every area with good wind and solar resources needs to be evaluated scientifically and thoroughly. Passage of the Dixon-Mills resolution for the County housing New York's 2nd largest city would essentially sink our State's chances of reaching the adopted goal of 100% carbon free electricity by 2040.
Stand Up for Renewable Energy and Green Jobs!
CALL Your Legislator before the Thursday, Sept.19 Hearing and urge them to vote against the Dixon-Mills anti-wind resolution.
Legislator List and Contact Info: click here
District Map: click here
If possible, please join us at the Legislative Hearing:
Thursday, September 19th 1:00-2:30 PM
Erie County Hall, 92 Franklin St. (4th Floor Legislative chamber), Buffalo [Map]
 |
| 'People friendly' wind turbines near Woodlawn Beach State Park on Lake Erie |
Monday, January 26, 2015
PUBLIC HEARING: NY State's Energy Vision - Raise Your Voice!
Can't afford your energy bills?
Concerned about climate change?
Want more local control over our energy future?
Raise your voice at the upcoming Public Hearing on NY State's "Reforming the Energy Vision" plan. Each Public Hearing will be preceded by an Informational Forum sponsored by the State Public Service Commission.
DATE: Thursday, January 29, 2015
FORUM / HEARING Times: 2:00PM/3:00PM; 6:00PM/7:00PM
PLACE: Buffalo & Erie County Public Library, 1 Lafayette Square, Buffalo [Map]
The Public Service Commission (PSC) is seeking to inform and obtain public comment on their regulatory component of Gov. Cuomo's "Reforming the Energy Vision" (REV) plan. The plan will promote more energy efficiency, greater use of renewable energy resources such as wind and solar, and “distributed” energy resources, such as micro grids, on-site power supplies, and storage.
As part of the REV process, the PSC is planning a 10-year phase out of government support and subsidies for clean energy development, in favor of a market-oriented approach. The REV proceeding will determine what role New York’s utility companies, like National Grid, will play in the energy system of the future. The PSC proposes to give utilities more control over designing, planning and managing the new energy markets in the hopes of motivating them to promote energy efficiency and renewables.
The Public Service Commission needs to hear the voices of the public, not just those of utility companies.
KEY ISSUES:
Grassroots public interest organizations from across New York have emphasized the following issues in response to the strong influence of utility companies and other for-profit corporations in the REV proceeding so far:
- Every New Yorker should have access to the benefits of clean energy
- New York must set and meet ambitious goals for greenhouse gas reductions
- There needs to be democratic participation in the energy system
- There is a need for regulation and consumer protections
The local Sierra Club is encouraging area residents to testify at the Public Hearing. To read suggestions for Talking Points by the Sierra Club Niagara Group, click here.
Detailed descriptions of Key Issues, additional Talking Points, a brief video and more are available at the Alliance for a Green Economy: click here. To download a printable description of REV plus Talking Points, click here, and a Testimony worksheet, click here.
PSC PUBLIC HEARING:
It is not necessary to be present at the start of the hearing, to make an appointment in advance, or to present written material to speak at the hearing. Persons will be called to speak after completing a request card.
For additional information provided by the PSC, click here.
Saturday, January 24, 2015
Public Service Commission: Reforming NY State's Energy Industry and Regulatory Practices
The energy industry is in transition. Technological innovation and increasing competitiveness of Renewable Energy resources, combined with aging infrastructure, extreme weather events, and system security and resiliency needs, are all leading to significant changes in how electric energy is produced, managed and consumed.
The New York State Public Service Commission (PSC) is conducting informational forums and public hearings across the State to seek public input and comment on the PSC’s regulatory component of Governor Cuomo’s overall strategic energy plan, ‘Reforming the Energy Vision’, or REV.
The REV initiative will lead to regulatory changes that promote more efficient use of energy and a deeper penetration of renewable resources such as Wind and Solar. The PSC is considering a new business model for energy service providers where distributed energy resources (Tomorrow's Energy Model, see below) will become a primary tool in the planning and operation of the electric system.
PSC identified six policy objectives supporting the REV effort:
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
Two Informational Forums with Public Hearings will be held in Buffalo, NY on THURSDAY, January 29, 2015:
For more information from the PSC, click here.
The New York State Public Service Commission (PSC) is conducting informational forums and public hearings across the State to seek public input and comment on the PSC’s regulatory component of Governor Cuomo’s overall strategic energy plan, ‘Reforming the Energy Vision’, or REV.
The REV initiative will lead to regulatory changes that promote more efficient use of energy and a deeper penetration of renewable resources such as Wind and Solar. The PSC is considering a new business model for energy service providers where distributed energy resources (Tomorrow's Energy Model, see below) will become a primary tool in the planning and operation of the electric system.
PSC identified six policy objectives supporting the REV effort:
- Enhance customer knowledge and tools to enable customers to manage their energy bills and provide them more choice in how they use energy
- Animate the market and leverage ratepayer contributions
- Promote system-wide Efficiency
- Increase fuel and resource diversity
- Enhance system reliability and resiliency
- Reduce Carbon Emissions
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
Two Informational Forums with Public Hearings will be held in Buffalo, NY on THURSDAY, January 29, 2015:
- FORUM / HEARING Times: 2:00PM/3:00PM; 6:00PM/7:00PM
- PLACE: Buffalo & Erie County Public Library, 1 Lafayette Square, Buffalo [Map]
For more information from the PSC, click here.
Tuesday, November 5, 2013
FORUM - Clean Energy And Good Jobs
Wednesday, November 13th at 6:00 PM - Clean Energy and Good Jobs
Please
attend this important Working Families Party forum at the UAW Hall at
35 George Karl Blvd (off Wherle near Transit - MAP). Labor and climate activists
need to come together and press for clean energy and good jobs if we
are to survive the climate crisis. Come hear economist Janette Barth
and local union officials.
Friday, October 18, 2013
Tell Governor Cuomo to Lead on Clean Energy
A clean energy economy is the future New Yorkers want and deserve. But
investment is not moving fast enough under Governor Andrew Cuomo.
The governor committed to solar energy with the NY SUN initiative, but his administration no longer plans to deliver the promised 30% renewable energy portfolio by 2015.
Wind energy in NY lags far behind states like Iowa. New York will be unable to meet our renewable energy goals without wind power.
These delays are denying New Yorkers job opportunities in manufacturing, installation, and maintenance of clean, renewable energy.
Tell Andrew Cuomo that New York State should be a national leader and not take a backseat to Iowa, South Dakota and Texas. Demand a major, enforceable wind energy commitment from him today.
TAKE ACTION: Please endorse the Petition. Thank You!
The governor committed to solar energy with the NY SUN initiative, but his administration no longer plans to deliver the promised 30% renewable energy portfolio by 2015.
Wind energy in NY lags far behind states like Iowa. New York will be unable to meet our renewable energy goals without wind power.
These delays are denying New Yorkers job opportunities in manufacturing, installation, and maintenance of clean, renewable energy.
Tell Andrew Cuomo that New York State should be a national leader and not take a backseat to Iowa, South Dakota and Texas. Demand a major, enforceable wind energy commitment from him today.
TAKE ACTION: Please endorse the Petition. Thank You!
Sunday, April 21, 2013
Governor Cuomo: Build a Renewable Energy Economy
On April 16, 2013, the Sierra Club urged NY Governor Cuomo to take aggressive action towards building a renewable energy economy. The campaign calls for job-creating renewable energy in areas that
could benefit from the transition away from fossil fuels.
“Specifically, we’re asking Gov. Andrew Cuomo
to take administrative action to meet and extend the state’s
renewable-energy goals … instead of any continued investment in fossil
fuels,” said Lynda H. Schneekloth, chairwoman of the Sierra Club,
Niagara Group at a news conference on the Buffalo waterfront in view of the Steel Winds wind turbines [video report].
Schneekloth said Cuomo's pledge to invest $1.5 billion in solar energy
through the NY-Sun Initiative is a very good start, but "much more can
be done to keep pace with other states."
Cornell Professor Robert W. Howarth spoke at the Buffalo news conference in support of renewable energy in terms of its feasibility and its economic and public health benefits. Howarth is co-author of a new peer-reviewed publication entitled "Examining the feasibility of converting New York State's all-purpose energy infrastructure to one using wind, water and sunlight."
Niagara Falls Mayor Paul Dyster said “Niagara Falls was in the forefront of renewable energy a century ago
with the creative development of hydroelectricity. It’s time we reclaim
that advantage and aggressively push for clean, renewable energy here in
New York.”
Take Action: Send an email message to Gov. Cuomo.
Other groups represented at the news conference included WNY Drilling
Defense, Wind Action Group, WNY Peace Center, Clean Air Coalition of WNY, Riverside Salem United
Church of Christ, PUSH Buffalo, WNY Council for Occupational Safety and
Health, Re-ENERGIZE Buffalo, Residents for Responsible Government, and
Partnership for the Public Good.
The Sierra Club's "Turn, Not Burn"campaign was advertised on billboards (image above) and in newspaper ads (see below) in Buffalo, Rochester, Binghamton, Auburn and Albany.
[Click image to enlarge]
Earth Day Lobby Day in Albany
The 23rd Annual Earth Day Lobby Day will be held on Tuesday, April 23rd, 2013 at the State Capitol in Albany, New York.
Hundreds of citizens from every corner of New York State will meet with their state lawmakers and show their support for the environment. This year's Earth Day Lobby Day will focus on critically important environmental issues such as expanding solar energy, curbing greenhouse gas emissions, keeping toxic chemicals out of children’s products, and protecting New York from the dangers of hydrofracking.
Specifically we will be lobbying on the following environmental “Super Bills”:
Earth Day Lobby Day 2013 is being sponsored by Adirondack Council, Adirondack Mountain Club, Catskill Citizens for Safe Energy, Catskill Mountainkeeper, Citizen Action of New York, Citizens Campaign for the Environment, Clean and Healthy New York, Environmental Advocates of New York, National Wildlife Federation, Natural Resources Defense Council, New York Interfaith Power and Light, New York League of Conservation Voters, New York Public Interest Research Group, Open Space Institute/Alliance for NYS Parks, Parks & Trails New York, Protect the Adirondacks, Riverkeeper, Sierra Club, Vote Solar Initiative, and other organizations.
The day’s events will last from 9:30 to 3:00. The morning program will take place in Hearing Room C of the Legislative Office Building. You must be registered to participate in afternoon lobbying activities.
If you have any questions, please contact Diana Pedi at dpedi@nypirg.org.
Hundreds of citizens from every corner of New York State will meet with their state lawmakers and show their support for the environment. This year's Earth Day Lobby Day will focus on critically important environmental issues such as expanding solar energy, curbing greenhouse gas emissions, keeping toxic chemicals out of children’s products, and protecting New York from the dangers of hydrofracking.
Specifically we will be lobbying on the following environmental “Super Bills”:
- Fracking Moratorium and Health Impacts Assessment: A5424A/S4236A
- Climate Protection Act: A6327, S735
- New York Solar Bill: A5060/S2522
- Child Safe Products Act: A6328/S4614
Earth Day Lobby Day 2013 is being sponsored by Adirondack Council, Adirondack Mountain Club, Catskill Citizens for Safe Energy, Catskill Mountainkeeper, Citizen Action of New York, Citizens Campaign for the Environment, Clean and Healthy New York, Environmental Advocates of New York, National Wildlife Federation, Natural Resources Defense Council, New York Interfaith Power and Light, New York League of Conservation Voters, New York Public Interest Research Group, Open Space Institute/Alliance for NYS Parks, Parks & Trails New York, Protect the Adirondacks, Riverkeeper, Sierra Club, Vote Solar Initiative, and other organizations.
The day’s events will last from 9:30 to 3:00. The morning program will take place in Hearing Room C of the Legislative Office Building. You must be registered to participate in afternoon lobbying activities.
If you have any questions, please contact Diana Pedi at dpedi@nypirg.org.
Monday, November 19, 2012
Accelerating the Implementation of Renewable Energy
7:30 p.m., Monday, November 26
Daemen College, 4380 Main Street, Amherst, Room 336,
Duns Scotus Hall
Free and Open to the Public
Keynote Speaker:- Bill Nowak, Sierra Club Energy Committee member, Author of Clean Energy –FIT Report
- Dave Hahn Baker, Environmental and Political Consultant
- Ellen Banks, Professor, Psychology, Daemen College
- Sarah Carpenter, Sustainability Major, Daemen College
- Walter Simpson, energy educator, Daemen College Instructor (www.energyreallymatters.com)
Scientists have been telling us that global warming is likely to result in increasingly devastating extreme weather events as we continue to burn fossil fuels and add more greenhouse gases to the atmosphere. Superstorm Sandy is a horrific example of the type of extreme weather that is in store for us. But how can we respond effectively and achieve a clean energy economy with all due speed? While renewable energy resources like wind and solar are said to be our future, the deployment of these technologies has been painfully slow despite existing government programs and incentives. This public discussion will examine how a Feed-in Tariff (FIT) could speed up the transition from fossil fuels to renewables within a timeframe consistent with addressing climate change and providing needed green jobs. In the last three years a Clean Energy FIT program has created more than 22,000 green jobs in Ontario! Why not in New York?!
This panel discussion is presented as part of the Alternative & Renewable Energy Issues course in Daemen's Global & Sustainability program. For information on this exciting new major and minor, visit www.daemen.edu/sustainability. For more information about the panel discussion, wsimpson@daemen.edu or 839-0062.
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Buffalo Solar Jobs Day
WHEN: Thursday, May 24, 12:00pm to 3:00pm
WHERE: Cornell’s Industrial and Labor Relations School, 237 Main St., Suite 1200, Buffalo
State lawmakers are considering ways to make New York a leader in our nation's growing solar economy, meanwhile solar power is already making a difference all around the state. Come explore the ways that solar power is working for New York today.
Schedule:
12:00pm – Press Conference
• Senator Mark Grisanti, New York State Senate
• Ron Kammen, President of the New York Solar Energy Industries Association
• Ryan McPherson, University of Buffalo
• Environmental Org Representation
12:30pm – Solar Jobs Training 101
• Jeff Stevens, SUNY Alfred
1:30pm – Solar Power Education & Policy
• New York Solar Policy and the NY Solar Jobs Act – Ron Kammen
• Solar in Buffalo, Univ. of Buffalo’s Solar Strand – Ryan McPhereson
• How Solar Works – Solar Liberty
• Environmental Benefits of Solar Deployment – Citizens Campaign for the Environment, Sierra Club
Solar Jobs in the Community & Demos: Local solar companies will showcase their offerings and provide information about going solar in New York.
Local Solar Grassroots: New York Solar Jobs Coalition partners will be on hand to answer questions about the New York Solar Jobs Act. Participants will have the opportunity to show lawmakers they care about their local solar economy.
A printable flier for the event is here.
WHERE: Cornell’s Industrial and Labor Relations School, 237 Main St., Suite 1200, Buffalo
State lawmakers are considering ways to make New York a leader in our nation's growing solar economy, meanwhile solar power is already making a difference all around the state. Come explore the ways that solar power is working for New York today.
Schedule:
12:00pm – Press Conference
• Senator Mark Grisanti, New York State Senate
• Ron Kammen, President of the New York Solar Energy Industries Association
• Ryan McPherson, University of Buffalo
• Environmental Org Representation
12:30pm – Solar Jobs Training 101
• Jeff Stevens, SUNY Alfred
1:30pm – Solar Power Education & Policy
• New York Solar Policy and the NY Solar Jobs Act – Ron Kammen
• Solar in Buffalo, Univ. of Buffalo’s Solar Strand – Ryan McPhereson
• How Solar Works – Solar Liberty
• Environmental Benefits of Solar Deployment – Citizens Campaign for the Environment, Sierra Club
Solar Jobs in the Community & Demos: Local solar companies will showcase their offerings and provide information about going solar in New York.
Local Solar Grassroots: New York Solar Jobs Coalition partners will be on hand to answer questions about the New York Solar Jobs Act. Participants will have the opportunity to show lawmakers they care about their local solar economy.
A printable flier for the event is here.
For inquiries contact Peter Olmsted at the Vote Solar Initiative - peter@votesolar.org or 717-305-0045
Sunday, May 6, 2012
HOMEOWNERS: Cut Electricity Bills and Pollution by Leasing Solar Panels
Solar panel leasing is new alternative to purchasing that has recently
become available to homeowners in New York State. Leasing will make
the transition to clean, renewable electricity possible and affordable
for many more homeowners.
Favorable incentives offered by the federal and state governments now make leasing a home solar-electric system possible.
With leasing, there are no up-front purchase costs and no additional charges for installation, maintenance and insurance.
Savings over previous electric bills are guaranteed. At the same time, the solar homeowner will lower their carbon footprint and help stabilize the climate. It's a win-win for people and the planet.
It's also a win for our local economy since solar system installation creates new, local jobs -- green jobs.
To get a Free Quote to see if leasing solar panels will work for you, Click Here, and get $500.00 back if you lease.
Originally posted on 4/21/2012
Monday, February 27, 2012
Clean Energy Tops List of Environmental 'Super Bills' for 2012
Green Super Bills Designed to Invigorate NY’s Solar Industry and Create Jobs, Close Hazardous Waste Loophole for Fracking, Cut Climate Pollution
Albany - Nine New York environmental groups today released their annual slate of “Super Bills” for 2012. Green priorities for the State Legislature include measures designed to bolster economic development while addressing New York’s highest profile environmental challenges, including expanding the use of solar energy, cutting the pollution that is changing our climate and protecting the state’s waters and communities from gas drilling by means of “fracking” by closing a loophole that exempts the oil and gas industry from responsibly treating drilling waste. The groups also announced this year’s Earth Day Lobby Day will be held on April 25.
“New York’s leaders tell us they support cleaner and more sustainable energy. And elected officials say they will act responsibly before opening the floodgates to fracking in the Marcellus Shale,” said Dave Gahl, Deputy Director, Environmental Advocates of New York. “We’re calling on the Legislature to pass the 2012 Super Bills and send a message—New York is open for business—clean, safe business that creates new jobs, holds industry accountable and benefits our communities with clean air and safe water.”
“Citizens Campaign for the Environment urges the Legislature and Governor Cuomo to stand up for clean air, clean water, job creation and a strong economy by enacting the 2012 Super Bills,” said Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director.
The 2012 Green Super Bills are:
Solar Industry Development & Jobs Act (A.9149 - Englebright) would create thousands of new solar jobs and jumpstart investment in New York’s growing solar energy industry by requiring state utilities and energy service companies to supply an increasing percentage of their electricity from solar, ultimately resulting in 5000 MW on the grid by 2026—enough to power more than 500,000 homes and reduce as much carbon pollution as taking nearly three million cars off the road.
Global Warming Pollution Cap (A.5346 - Sweeney / S.2742-B - Avella*) would require that climate-altering pollution from all sources is cut by 80 percent by the year 2050. These are the reductions in greenhouse gas emissions that scientists say will help us avert the worst impacts of climate change. *These bills will be amended to match.
Hazardous Waste Loophole (A.7013 - Sweeney / S.4616 - Avella) would end special exemptions that allow the gas industry to circumvent requirements for hazardous waste disposal. This bill would update state law so that all waste resulting from gas drilling that meets the definition of hazardous waste be treated as such and subject to all regulations related to its generation, transportation, treatment, storage and disposal. Thanks to the leadership of Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver and Environmental Conservation Committee Chair Robert Sweeney, the Assembly acted to close the loophole by passing this Super Bill on February 13 by wide margins.
Albany - Nine New York environmental groups today released their annual slate of “Super Bills” for 2012. Green priorities for the State Legislature include measures designed to bolster economic development while addressing New York’s highest profile environmental challenges, including expanding the use of solar energy, cutting the pollution that is changing our climate and protecting the state’s waters and communities from gas drilling by means of “fracking” by closing a loophole that exempts the oil and gas industry from responsibly treating drilling waste. The groups also announced this year’s Earth Day Lobby Day will be held on April 25.
“New York’s leaders tell us they support cleaner and more sustainable energy. And elected officials say they will act responsibly before opening the floodgates to fracking in the Marcellus Shale,” said Dave Gahl, Deputy Director, Environmental Advocates of New York. “We’re calling on the Legislature to pass the 2012 Super Bills and send a message—New York is open for business—clean, safe business that creates new jobs, holds industry accountable and benefits our communities with clean air and safe water.”
“Citizens Campaign for the Environment urges the Legislature and Governor Cuomo to stand up for clean air, clean water, job creation and a strong economy by enacting the 2012 Super Bills,” said Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director.
The 2012 Green Super Bills are:
Solar Industry Development & Jobs Act (A.9149 - Englebright) would create thousands of new solar jobs and jumpstart investment in New York’s growing solar energy industry by requiring state utilities and energy service companies to supply an increasing percentage of their electricity from solar, ultimately resulting in 5000 MW on the grid by 2026—enough to power more than 500,000 homes and reduce as much carbon pollution as taking nearly three million cars off the road.
Global Warming Pollution Cap (A.5346 - Sweeney / S.2742-B - Avella*) would require that climate-altering pollution from all sources is cut by 80 percent by the year 2050. These are the reductions in greenhouse gas emissions that scientists say will help us avert the worst impacts of climate change. *These bills will be amended to match.
Hazardous Waste Loophole (A.7013 - Sweeney / S.4616 - Avella) would end special exemptions that allow the gas industry to circumvent requirements for hazardous waste disposal. This bill would update state law so that all waste resulting from gas drilling that meets the definition of hazardous waste be treated as such and subject to all regulations related to its generation, transportation, treatment, storage and disposal. Thanks to the leadership of Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver and Environmental Conservation Committee Chair Robert Sweeney, the Assembly acted to close the loophole by passing this Super Bill on February 13 by wide margins.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Non-Profit Organizations: Cut Electricity Bills by Going Solar
No Up-front Costs -- Savings are Guaranteed!
Non-profit organizations, like churches, schools, social and community service groups, can realize immediate savings on their electric bill by leasing solar panels and generating their own electricity. With leasing, there are no up-front purchase costs and no additional charge for installation.
Bill Nowak is working with Solar Liberty to bring solar PV energy systems to non-profits and community-oriented organizations. Solar Liberty will install a 25 kW system for no money down and lease it to the organization for $100 a month for 15 years. Savings over previous electric bills are guaranteed.
At the end of the 15 year term, the organization is free to negotiate a new lease, buy the system at a fair market price, or have Solar Liberty take the system back.
All of the electricity generated by the system - approximately 26,000 kWh per year, valued at more than $3,000 per year at today’s prices, belongs to the organization for the $1,200 per year lease payments - the difference is money they would have been paying the utility company. Please see a Solar Liberty flier here.
This works because of some favorable incentives offered by the federal and state governments, which are set to expire on December 31, 2011.
This is a great opportunity for our community!
If you’d like to learn more about this program, Solar Liberty is holding FREE WEBINARS on June 23rd and 28th at 10 AM and June 30th at 2:00 PM. Sign up here.
Please send Bill Nowak any leads you may have with local non-profits or community organizations that own their own buildings or have a long term lease on their building. The roof space on the building needs to be fairly large (around 3,000 open feet) to qualify for this offer.
Contact Bill Nowak by e-mail here or phone him at 716-882-9237.
Sunday, December 12, 2010
TALK: Accelerating Solar Energy in NY
[Click image to enlarge]To read more information about the speaker and the presentation, click here.
SEATING is LIMITED: RSVP REQUIRED -- Register Here
SEATING is LIMITED: RSVP REQUIRED -- Register Here
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Ecology and Environment, Inc., Plays Key Role in First Large-Scale Solar Energy Project on U.S. Public Lands in Nevada
LANCASTER, N.Y., October 20, 2010 – Ecology and Environment, Inc., (E & E) (NASDAQ: EEI) is proud to announce its involvement in the Silver State North Solar Project, the first large-scale solar energy project on U.S. Public Lands in Nevada. The First Solar, Inc. project was approved by Secretary of the Interior, Ken Salazar, yesterday. This is the second landmark, large-scale solar fast-track project to obtain Department of the Interior (DOI) approval in recent days in which E & E has played a key role providing permitting, environmental impact assessment expertise and coordinating the public involvement process. “Silver State is one of several renewable energy projects in the pipeline that will help Nevada and the nation create jobs as we build a clean energy economy,” Secretary Salazar said in signing the Record of Decision. “This project will provide renewable energy that will help meet our nation’s growing demand as we strive to become energy independent.”
E & E prepared the precedent-setting environmental impact statement (EIS) for the 50-megawatt (MWAC) 60 (MWDC) solar facility and associated infrastructure, which will be built in the Ivanpah Valley, 40 miles south of Las Vegas. E & E worked collaboratively with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Las Vegas Field Office on the EIS, which analyzed environmental impacts of project construction and operation on several key resource areas, including threatened and endangered species, recreation, and hydrology; and identified appropriate mitigation measures to reduce project impacts. E & E engaged all project stakeholders and conducted well-attended public scoping meetings.
The Silver State North Solar Project is expected to generate enough electricity to power approximately 15,000 homes, create 300 construction jobs, and generate $250,000 in annual property tax revenue for Clark County, NV.
BLM Director, Bob Abbey, noted the key role public involvement played in the project’s approval. “The BLM is proud to play a major role in our nation’s quest to capture more renewable energy resources here at home,” Abbey said. “Through wise planning and engagement with local communities and stakeholders, we can support large-scale solar development on public lands while protecting valuable natural and cultural resources. If we are smart from the start, we can capture America’s renewable energy resources in the right way and the right places.”
“DOI approval of these pivotal large-scale solar projects on U.S. Public Lands is a significant step forward in advancing a clean energy economy and we are proud to play a role in making these projects a reality,” said E & E president and CEO Kevin Neumaier. “Silver State North brings Nevada one step closer to its goal of a 25 percent Renewable Portfolio Standard by 2025, and sends a clear message that standards and benchmarks like Nevada’s are achievable when energy companies, agencies, and stakeholders work collaboratively to advance environmentally sound projects.”
E & E has 40 years of global energy project experience and has been at the forefront of solar, wind and other renewable energy development. E & E has completed hundreds of renewable energy projects bringing thousands of megawatts of solar, wind, geothermal and ocean energy power to the grid.
Headquartered in Lancaster, N.Y., Ecology and Environment, Inc., has completed more than 50,000 projects for a wide variety of clients in 96 countries, providing environmental solutions in nearly every ecosystem on the planet. The company is listed on the NASDAQ under the symbol EEI and is located on the web at www.ene.com.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Firehouse joins WNY Solar Power Parade
BELLEVUE FIRE DISTRICT #9 SAVING MONEY WITH SUNSHINE
CHEEKTOWAGA, NY – The new solar electric system at the Bellevue Fire District #9 firehouse has saved over $2,000 in electrical costs since the beginning of the year. The 140-panel photovoltaic system is on tract to produce an expected 29,260 kilowatt hours of electricity per year for the building at 511 Como Park Blvd. in Cheektowaga.“With the increasing costs of energy, we wanted to offset some of our electrical costs in a way that wouldn’t raise the fire district budget,” explained Commissioner Jamie Casucci of the Bellevue Fire District. “There’s no down side to solar energy. The solar panel system will help prevent additional burden on the taxpayers from rising electricity rates.”
Most of the 28 kilowatt system’s cost was funded by a $137,000 grant from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA). The remaining upfront cost will be paid back in just 6 years from the value of the electricity it produces. The Fire District is expecting to save $191,000 in energy costs over the system’s minimum 25-year warranted lifetime. That’s a 17.4% annual rate of return on investment.
The photovoltaic solar system was installed by Solar Liberty of Buffalo, which has recently completed similar systems for the Eggertsville Fire Department and South Dayton Fire Department.
“When public or nonprofit facilities use solar, they demonstrate to the community that upgrading a building with a solar energy system makes sense both financially and environmentally,” said Adam Rizzo, President of Solar Liberty. “Saving money on electricity is especially important for organizations that are dependent on the community for their support.”
Aside from saving money, the fire hall is a much greener building. The system will offset the firehouse’s carbon footprint by 501 tons of CO2 during the next 25 years of solar electricity production. This is the equivalent of planting a forest of 20,000 trees or removing 911,000 miles of automobile traffic from the roads.
“We’re currently looking at other ways to update the building in an effort to be more environmentally friendly while taking steps to save money,” according to Commissioner Casucci.
A Parade of Solar Power in Western NY
Solar Liberty has been installing hundreds of solar energy systems statewide for government, commercial, and residential customers. Recent local installations have been completed at dozens of Catholic Diocese schools, the downtown Merchant’s Insurance headquarters, and the town of West Seneca, as well as many Western New York State homes. Major upcoming installations are the 1.1 MW University at Buffalo solar project, the NFTA Bus Garage, and the Rochester International Airport.
Western NY has the Sun, and we've got Clean, Renewable Power!
Monday, September 28, 2009
Talk: Building New York's Solar Economy
The WNY Sustainable Energy Association presents
Building New York's Solar Economy
Where We Are, Where We Need to Go, and How to Get There
A talk by
Ron Kamen
President, New York Solar Energy Industries Association
Senior Vice-President, EarthKind Solar
7:00 p.m., Tuesday, October 6th
Room 202 Schenk Hall
Daemen College
4380 Main Street, Amherst
Schenk Hall is across from the Wick Campus Center. See Campus Map for location and free parking on campus.
Ron Kamen, President of the New York Solar Energy Industries Association, NYSEIA, is senior VP of EarthKind Solar, the leading solar thermal energy company in New York. Ron began his career as an energy policy expert in the 1980s when he worked to create Demand Side Management programs that gave the utility industry a financial incentive to invest in energy efficiency, spurring New York's current multi-billion dollar efficiency programs. In the 1990s, Ron developed energy efficiency projects with Fortune 1000 companies and government entities, and from 2000 - 2006 he played a key role in creating NY's wind power market, helping propel growth from 50 MWs to over 1,000 MWs of wind energy today.
For more information, e-mail Walter Simpson or phone (716) 839-0062. Event co-sponsored by the WNY Climate Action Coalition.
Friday, April 17, 2009
In the NEWS
Kennedy touts future of alternative energy - 04/17/2009
Wind, solar and geothermal power are the nation’s environmental destiny, according to environmental activist and attorney Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The son of the late senator and U. S. Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy Sr. was the guest speaker at a free forum Thursday in the Koessler Athletic Center at Canisius College.
Currently serving as senior attorney for the Natural Resources Defense Council, Kennedy has amassed quite a reputation as a defender of the environment. Before his lecture Thursday, he spent about 15 minutes with local media representatives outlining his support for alternative fuel and energy sources that, he said, will not only save the planet, but save billions of dollars, as well. Read the report in The Buffalo News.
ENERGY INDEPENDENCE - 04/12/2009
Will Obama’s ambitious agenda end America’s reliance on oil?
WASHINGTON — Steven Chu, the Nobel Prize-winning physicist who is President Obama’s energy secretary, recently gave a speech about energy efficiency, electricity transmission lines and renewable energy sources. Afterward, Chevron Vice Chairman Peter Robertson noted disconsolately that “it would be nice to hear a bit about oil and gas.”
Oil and natural gas, however, are not what’s lighting up the Obama energy agenda. The new president is setting out to change the very nature of American energy, from the way we use it to the way we generate it. It’s a goal that drives his policy on automakers, which he wants to push to manufacture more fuel-efficient cars. Read the full story in The Buffalo News.
Outlook bright as solar group plans to hold conference here - 04/09/2009
Organizers eager to put region in ‘green’ light
Pray for sunshine — the nation’s biggest solar energy conference is coming to town. Plans for Solar 2009, the May 11-16 annual convention of the American Solar Energy Society, were announced Wednesday at the Burchfield Penney Art Center.
“Why not solar in Buffalo? If it works here, it will work anywhere,” said Walter Simpson, co-chairman of the Western New York Sustainable Energy Association and member of the local organizing committee for the conference. Read the report in The Buffalo News.
Radical ideas on climate eyed - 04/09/2009
WASHINGTON — Tinkering with Earth’s climate to chill runaway global warming by "geoengineering" — a radical idea once dismissed out of hand — is being discussed by the White House as a potential emergency option, the president’s new science adviser said Wednesday.
That’s because global warming is happening so rapidly, John Holdren told the Associated Press in his first interview since being confirmed last month. He emphasized that geoengineering is not something to rely on: “It would be preferable by far,” he said, “to solve this problem by reducing emissions of greenhouse gases.” Read the report in The Buffalo News.
Have you seen a lilac yet? Report it! - 04/12/2009
Phenology is the study of periodic plant and animal life cycle events and how they are influenced by seasonal and yearly climate variation. The subject is principally concerned with the dates of first occurrence of biological events in their annual cycle.
Collected phenology records provide information about climate change and global warming and cooling. One of the interesting correlations exposed by a study of European grape harvest records was about Mount Tambora which had erupted in 1815 and volcanic dust in the upper atmosphere caused sharply lower temperatures. As one consequence, the 1816 grape season was delayed five weeks. For the full story, read Nature Watch by Gerry Rising in The Buffalo News.
Wind, solar and geothermal power are the nation’s environmental destiny, according to environmental activist and attorney Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The son of the late senator and U. S. Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy Sr. was the guest speaker at a free forum Thursday in the Koessler Athletic Center at Canisius College.
Currently serving as senior attorney for the Natural Resources Defense Council, Kennedy has amassed quite a reputation as a defender of the environment. Before his lecture Thursday, he spent about 15 minutes with local media representatives outlining his support for alternative fuel and energy sources that, he said, will not only save the planet, but save billions of dollars, as well. Read the report in The Buffalo News.
ENERGY INDEPENDENCE - 04/12/2009
Will Obama’s ambitious agenda end America’s reliance on oil?
WASHINGTON — Steven Chu, the Nobel Prize-winning physicist who is President Obama’s energy secretary, recently gave a speech about energy efficiency, electricity transmission lines and renewable energy sources. Afterward, Chevron Vice Chairman Peter Robertson noted disconsolately that “it would be nice to hear a bit about oil and gas.”
Oil and natural gas, however, are not what’s lighting up the Obama energy agenda. The new president is setting out to change the very nature of American energy, from the way we use it to the way we generate it. It’s a goal that drives his policy on automakers, which he wants to push to manufacture more fuel-efficient cars. Read the full story in The Buffalo News.
Outlook bright as solar group plans to hold conference here - 04/09/2009
Organizers eager to put region in ‘green’ light
Pray for sunshine — the nation’s biggest solar energy conference is coming to town. Plans for Solar 2009, the May 11-16 annual convention of the American Solar Energy Society, were announced Wednesday at the Burchfield Penney Art Center.
“Why not solar in Buffalo? If it works here, it will work anywhere,” said Walter Simpson, co-chairman of the Western New York Sustainable Energy Association and member of the local organizing committee for the conference. Read the report in The Buffalo News.
Radical ideas on climate eyed - 04/09/2009
WASHINGTON — Tinkering with Earth’s climate to chill runaway global warming by "geoengineering" — a radical idea once dismissed out of hand — is being discussed by the White House as a potential emergency option, the president’s new science adviser said Wednesday.
That’s because global warming is happening so rapidly, John Holdren told the Associated Press in his first interview since being confirmed last month. He emphasized that geoengineering is not something to rely on: “It would be preferable by far,” he said, “to solve this problem by reducing emissions of greenhouse gases.” Read the report in The Buffalo News.
Have you seen a lilac yet? Report it! - 04/12/2009
Phenology is the study of periodic plant and animal life cycle events and how they are influenced by seasonal and yearly climate variation. The subject is principally concerned with the dates of first occurrence of biological events in their annual cycle.
Collected phenology records provide information about climate change and global warming and cooling. One of the interesting correlations exposed by a study of European grape harvest records was about Mount Tambora which had erupted in 1815 and volcanic dust in the upper atmosphere caused sharply lower temperatures. As one consequence, the 1816 grape season was delayed five weeks. For the full story, read Nature Watch by Gerry Rising in The Buffalo News.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Business Gets Green: March 19th
Business Gets Green is a monthly networking series for green businesses and businesses that want to explore going green. All are welcome and admission is Free. The next session will be held on Thursday, March 19th, from 5:30 to 7:30pm at the Buffalo Museum of Science [Map]. Please arrive early. Business Gets Green sessions start promptly at 5:30 and close at 7:30, leaving time for networking.
Agenda:
At 5:30pm, there will be one minute introductions of businesses and green organizations in attendance. Please be prepared to introduce yourself.
Marty Walters - lead organizer of the upcoming May 9th Buffalo Goes Green Expo will give brief description of how the Expo will work as part of the American Solar Energy Society conference week.
Gary Hydock talks about Business Gets Green synergies. Video Presentation.
The 4 longer presentations at this month's meeting will be from:
1. Ravi Prasad - Helios-NRG is a premier consulting group, particularly well positioned to provide consultation on Industrial Gases production and applications, state-of the-art Separation Technologies, Clean and Renewable Energy, CO2 mitigation and several advanced topics including nano-technology, batteries, heat transfer and fluid flow. The company currently provides consultation to DOE in the area of clean fuels and is looking to develop several projects in the clean/renewable energy arena. Video presentation.
2. David Bradley - Engineering Committee Chair of the Wind Action Group on offshore wind opportunities for the Great Lakes. Video presentation.
3. Greg Stevens of the Buffalo Green Energy Corridor - on their vision for turning the South Buffalo Brownfield Opportunity Area into an exciting Green Energy cluster. Video presentation.
4. Cyd Cox, Ecologic Home - is a Building Performance Institute accredited contractor who will give specific examples of energy audits Ecologic Home has performed showing incentives used and the savings enjoyed by customers. Video presentation.
Short Presentations -- Videos
Video recordings of presentations at Business Gets Green sessions are shown on LCTV. To see videos of earlier presentations, visit Jon Allen's VideoWebWorks Business Gets Green Group on YouTube.
NYS Senator Antoine M. Thompson is now the principal sponsor of the ongoing Business Gets Green series. However he won't be able to attend every month and won't be able to attend this Thursday, March 19th.
Questions? Please contact Bill Nowak, newly-appointed Director of Policy Research for NYS Sen.Thompson, at wnowak@senate.state.ny.us
Agenda:
At 5:30pm, there will be one minute introductions of businesses and green organizations in attendance. Please be prepared to introduce yourself.
Marty Walters - lead organizer of the upcoming May 9th Buffalo Goes Green Expo will give brief description of how the Expo will work as part of the American Solar Energy Society conference week.
Gary Hydock talks about Business Gets Green synergies. Video Presentation.
The 4 longer presentations at this month's meeting will be from:
1. Ravi Prasad - Helios-NRG is a premier consulting group, particularly well positioned to provide consultation on Industrial Gases production and applications, state-of the-art Separation Technologies, Clean and Renewable Energy, CO2 mitigation and several advanced topics including nano-technology, batteries, heat transfer and fluid flow. The company currently provides consultation to DOE in the area of clean fuels and is looking to develop several projects in the clean/renewable energy arena. Video presentation.
2. David Bradley - Engineering Committee Chair of the Wind Action Group on offshore wind opportunities for the Great Lakes. Video presentation.
3. Greg Stevens of the Buffalo Green Energy Corridor - on their vision for turning the South Buffalo Brownfield Opportunity Area into an exciting Green Energy cluster. Video presentation.
4. Cyd Cox, Ecologic Home - is a Building Performance Institute accredited contractor who will give specific examples of energy audits Ecologic Home has performed showing incentives used and the savings enjoyed by customers. Video presentation.
Short Presentations -- Videos
Video recordings of presentations at Business Gets Green sessions are shown on LCTV. To see videos of earlier presentations, visit Jon Allen's VideoWebWorks Business Gets Green Group on YouTube.
NYS Senator Antoine M. Thompson is now the principal sponsor of the ongoing Business Gets Green series. However he won't be able to attend every month and won't be able to attend this Thursday, March 19th.
Questions? Please contact Bill Nowak, newly-appointed Director of Policy Research for NYS Sen.Thompson, at wnowak@senate.state.ny.us
Friday, April 25, 2008
In the NEWS 4/25
Solar-energy systems exempted from sales tax
by Matthew Spina
NY State and Erie County will not charge sales tax on the purchase and installation of residential solar-energy systems. Other incentives include state energy grants, property tax exemptions for structural improvements, and the ability to sell surplus electricity to local utility companies. To read the report, click here.
Home grown wind power
What are the options for using a small windmill to produce electricity at home? To find out, click here. See also Wind Power for Homes in the Side Panel for links to further information.
Bill Nowak from the Wind Action Group recommends the following local contacts involved in small wind installations:
Richard Meyers at: somersetnrg@adelphia.net
Amherst company, Greennorth: info@greennorth.com
Lake Effect Energy, c/o Dave Bradley: tantalum73@verizon.net
Expanded Metro Rail offers many benefits
by Joseph H. Radder
"Electrified inter-city rail and electric intra-city light-rail rapid transit will take millions of cars off the road and, in time, save billions of gallons of oil, not to mention the dramatic reduction in air pollution." Click here.
We need to act now to save our planet
by Louis DeRosa
"When will we, as a collective, make the decision to save our own lives and the lives of future generations?" Click here.
by Matthew Spina
NY State and Erie County will not charge sales tax on the purchase and installation of residential solar-energy systems. Other incentives include state energy grants, property tax exemptions for structural improvements, and the ability to sell surplus electricity to local utility companies. To read the report, click here.
Home grown wind power
What are the options for using a small windmill to produce electricity at home? To find out, click here. See also Wind Power for Homes in the Side Panel for links to further information.
Bill Nowak from the Wind Action Group recommends the following local contacts involved in small wind installations:
Richard Meyers at: somersetnrg@adelphia.net
Amherst company, Greennorth: info@greennorth.com
Lake Effect Energy, c/o Dave Bradley: tantalum73@verizon.net
Expanded Metro Rail offers many benefits
by Joseph H. Radder
"Electrified inter-city rail and electric intra-city light-rail rapid transit will take millions of cars off the road and, in time, save billions of gallons of oil, not to mention the dramatic reduction in air pollution." Click here.
We need to act now to save our planet
by Louis DeRosa
"When will we, as a collective, make the decision to save our own lives and the lives of future generations?" Click here.
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