Articles tagged with Energy Policy
The increasing demand for rare earth elements and critical minerals poses significant geopolitical challenges, threatening the global clean energy economy. The US, China, and other countries are exploring strategies to secure domestic supplies and mitigate supply risks.
The California Energy Commission awards Calit2 at UCI a $1 million grant to research plug-load devices, which consume 20% of building electrical power. The project aims to create more energy-efficient appliances and provide data for future standards by 2030.
A joint program between Shell and the University of Texas at Austin aims to address challenges in the unconventional oil and gas industry through research and collaboration, focusing on developing safe and responsible methods for harnessing shale gas resources.
Iowa State University will lead a five-year project to build the state's research capacity in renewable energy and energy efficiency, supported by a $20 million NSF grant. The program aims to establish Iowa as a leader in transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources.
Researchers from Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft develop innovative production methods using lasers to increase efficiency and reduce costs of solar cells. Thin-film solar cells with improved quality and reduced material usage are also being produced.
Dr. Devra Lee Davis discusses health risks associated with cell phone use, including brain cancer and long-term implications for young people. She provides recommendations for safe use, such as maintaining distance from the brain and body.
Researchers at the University of East Anglia argue that greater focus on the energy requirements of the water sector is crucial for meeting sustainability goals. The study highlights the need to integrate energy use into water resource management and understand its role in greenhouse gas emissions.
A Rutgers study finds that factors such as ecological degradation and trust in energy facilities play a significant role in shaping public preferences for coal and nuclear energy. The research suggests that a one-size-fits-all approach to energy policy is unlikely to succeed, highlighting the need for a comprehensive strategy addressin...
A joint report from Berkeley Lab suggests California can achieve 60% emissions reduction with current technology, while the remaining 20% will require advancements in technologies like artificial photosynthesis and fusion energy. The report recommends electrifying as much as possible, increasing efficiency measures, and changing human ...
The book highlights the crucial role of policy mechanisms, such as the feed-in tariff, in promoting widespread solar energy deployment. In California, a new law aims to make solar affordable at the municipal level.
A report by the Nuffield Council on Bioethics finds current biofuels policies to be unethical due to their impact on the environment and human rights. The council recommends a certification scheme to ensure environmentally sustainable and 'human rights friendly' biofuels.
The US lags behind other countries in nuclear fuel recycling due to unfounded concerns and myths. Reprocessing spent fuel can recover significant energy value and reduce high-level nuclear waste volume.
A new multi-institutional center will develop tools to help governments, businesses, and individuals make informed decisions on climate and energy policies. The Center will utilize a new modeling framework, CIM-EARTH, to provide insights to policymakers and promote open science.
A study by Purdue University economists found that California's tiered electricity pricing system discourages consumption and makes plug-in hybrid cars less economical. Adding a plug-in hybrid would increase energy use nearly 60% per household, mostly charged at the highest rate.
A study by UC Berkeley researchers shows that clean energy investments in rural areas can help alleviate poverty and reduce carbon emissions. In Nicaragua, a community went from using diesel generators to efficient compact fluorescent light bulbs, resulting in a 28% drop in energy use and 37% reduction in electricity bills.
A new assessment warns that current imbalances in energy technology R&D portfolios will hinder climate change mitigation unless investments in energy efficiency are increased. Energy efficiency accounts for up to 50% of potential GHG emissions reductions, yet receives less than 10% of overall public sector investment.
The Ohio State University and Ohio Supercomputer Center have received a four-year, $1.675 million federal grant to develop a computer tool called the Integrated Computational System for Energy Pricing and Policy (ICS-EPP). This model will enable analysis of various scenarios, including the cost of adding electric vehicles to the grid a...
The U.S.-China Clean Energy Research Center will develop low-energy technologies for residential and commercial buildings, with a focus on commercialization and human behavior's impact on energy use. The consortium aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through dramatic energy savings of 40-70% in existing and new buildings.
More than 100 marine scientists advocate for an integrated European network of long-term marine observatories to provide reliable data for sustainable use of seas. The network aims to reduce uncertainty about sea-level rise and its impact on coastal defences, saving millions annually.
A University of Michigan researcher proposes a 'revolution by evolution' to boost fuel efficiency in gasoline-powered cars. By prioritizing efficient combustion engines and hybrid drives, the target is to reach 52 mpg by 2025 and 74 mpg by 2035.
A study by the Basque Center for Climate Change finds that CO2 reduction policies in Spain strengthen the services sector, while reducing industrial and energy sectors' impact. The policies encourage minor changes in consumption patterns and may lead to emissions reductions through tax creation.
Researchers from NC State University developed a new model to understand how biofuel chemicals react when burned. This helps create more efficient and environmentally friendly energy sources.
A study by David Victor finds that fossil-fuel subsidies undermine energy security and worsen the environment. Most subsidies are a waste of money, and their removal could provide $550 billion annually for more beneficial programs.
A new study from Duke University and Georgia Institute of Technology finds that energy-efficient measures in the south could save consumers $41 billion on their energy bills by 2020. Investing $200 billion in energy efficiency programs by 2030 could return $448 billion in savings.
A new report by CSIRO outlines the potential of distributed energy to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Australia. Distributed energy systems can provide local generation, efficiency, and demand management, offering an immediate and cost-effective response to climate change.
Pioneering research reveals policymakers are underestimating the scale of CO2 emission reductions required to mitigate climate change. A computer software developed at the University of Manchester helps authorities in different countries troubleshoot their approaches to emissions.
Researchers at Queen's University suggest examining GHG emissions implications for energy infrastructure to optimize greenhouse gas emission reductions. They propose using dynamic life-cycle analyses to determine carbon-neutral growth rates, which could help policy makers restructure renewable energy production.
A new policy paper questions the economic, environmental and logistical basis for billions of dollars in federal subsidies and protectionist tariffs for domestic ethanol producers. The report highlights the environmental threats posed by current biofuels policy and challenges claims that ethanol use lowers greenhouse gas emissions.
Researchers Steven Skerlos and James Winebrake argue that government subsidies for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) should be tailored to specific locations and consumer characteristics. They found that PHEVs are most effective in areas with low-carbon fuel production, high driving volumes, and poor air quality.
A new study found that restaurant meals contained an average of 18% more calories than stated on nutritional labels, while frozen meals averaged 8% more. The discrepancy can lead to inaccurate calorie tracking and reduced weight loss benefits.
The Rand Corporation study recommends that Israel prioritize conservation measures and diversify its fuel mix to reduce security risks. The nation should invest in combined-cycle natural-gas power plants, maintain a wide range of fuels, and regulate wholesale and retail prices to defray supply and cost risks.
The center has awarded its third round of competitive research grants to six projects focused on energy efficiency in buildings, transportation, and behavior. The projects aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption through innovative approaches such as design optimization, policy analysis, and behavioral interventions.
A Stanford University research team has been awarded $6.27 million to develop an interactive software system that encourages people to be more energy efficient at home. The system will provide consumers with information about household energy consumption, aiming to reduce energy consumption by 10-30 percent.
A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences suggests that everyday actions such as home weatherization and vehicle maintenance can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The research estimated that these measures could cut total US carbon emissions by 5% over five years and 7.4% in 10 years.
Wealthier countries use less energy in buildings due to rating systems, but design challenges remain. Implementing similar programs can create 'green' jobs in the US, according to a new RAND Corporation study.
Wind energy could account for 30% of Spain's overall energy production by 2030, according to a study. The proposal also suggests a mix of solar energy and gas turbines to achieve this goal, while reducing carbon emissions. Additionally, the sector has generated 226% more jobs in the European Union since 2003.
The National Science Foundation awards Rutgers $7.6 million for research in clean and sustainable energy resources using biotechnology and nanotechnology. Graduate students will also benefit from the grants, which support training in policy and economic issues related to clean energy development.
Leading national experts have reached a consensus on beneficial biofuels produced from low-life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions and minimal competition with food production. The global biofuels industry must focus on five major sources of renewable biomass to balance biofuel production, food security, and emissions reduction.
Researchers at Yale University found that land plants stabilized atmospheric CO2 levels, preventing a deep frozen fate. This discovery supports the emerging view that plants should be recognized as a geologic force of nature, with important consequences for all life on Earth.
The British Climate Act is deemed flawed, with no one knowing how fast a major economy can decarbonize. Experts argue that policy should focus on developing clean technologies rather than setting unobtainable targets.
A new analysis by the MIT Integrated Global Systems Model suggests that climate change could be twice as severe as initially estimated, with a median probability of surface warming of 5.2 degrees Celsius by 2100. The study found that improved economic modeling and newer data on emissions are contributing to this increased risk.
A new study by the Baker Institute at Rice University suggests that US and Canadian shale gas production, along with alternative natural gas supplies from Iraq and other sources, can counterbalance Russia's energy influence over Europe. The research recommends enhanced energy security measures, including natural gas storage capacity an...
A national survey found that Americans are ready to reduce their energy use, with half having taken action and a substantial number planning to do so. The main barrier is financial cost, highlighting the need for innovative financing models.
The university's M. Granger Morgan will unveil a novel 'two-stage' approach for developing new energy technologies that can help society reduce dangerous greenhouse gas emissions. The plan includes the creation of an independent Federal Carbon Sequestration Commission to make recommendations for future regulations.
The Precourt Institute has awarded seven Stanford faculty members $824,000 in seed grants to develop energy-efficient technologies and behaviors. The research projects will focus on promoting energy efficiency within buildings, transportation, and other areas.
David A. Gonzales II wins ConocoPhillips Energy Prize for his innovative Layered MagWheel technology, increasing energy conversion and efficiency. The prize recognizes new ideas to improve energy development and use.
Federation of American Scientists honors Mark D. Levine with the 2008 Public Service Award for his contributions to energy efficiency research, particularly in China. The award recognizes his work in building a strong energy program and promoting clean technology policies.
Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle will be the first recipient of a prestigious award from the Ecological Society of America. The award recognizes his commitment to ecological and environmental policy issues through initiatives such as invasive species control and renewable energy promotion.
A study by University of Washington researchers found that popular biofuel sources like corn-based ethanol may have negative environmental impacts. The authors recommend promoting sustainable alternatives such as switchgrass or algae-based fuels, and implementing policies to minimize land usage and energy consumption.
The Precourt Institute for Energy Efficiency has awarded its first competitive research grants to Stanford faculty members, with a total of $358,000 in funding over the next 11-18 months. The grants support projects aimed at enhancing energy efficiency in transportation, building, and electricity sectors.
The report highlights that RPS policies apply to nearly 50% of total US electricity load in 25 states and Washington D.C. It also notes that existing policies would require roughly 60 GW of new renewable capacity by 2025, equivalent to 15% of projected electricity demand growth.
Researchers from Iowa State University discussed the global implications of energy and agriculture on science and policy. They addressed climate change, production of biofuel crops on marginal lands, and the ethics of using agriculture for energy production.
Carnegie Mellon will lead a team to develop and promote a regulatory structure for the safe and economical capture, transport and deep geological sequestration of CO2. The grant is part of a $100 million Climate Change Initiative to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create a cleaner economy.
A novel study by Jianguo Liu and Eunice Yu at Michigan State University found that divorce rates globally are on the rise, leading to more households with fewer people, increased resource consumption, and environmental degradation. In contrast, cohabitation can reduce urban sprawl and soften the environmental hit.
The Carnegie Mellon team's winning letter addressed the presidential hopefuls' positions on environmental policies, calling for strong leadership to drive a sustainable energy solution. The students won a $10,000 scholarship and will attend the Energy Efficiency Forum.
A new study by MIT economists suggests that US greenhouse gas emissions could accelerate in the next 50 years, with technological change possibly contributing to increased emissions. The researchers found that energy use and CO2 emissions may grow at rates higher than historical averages, despite increasing energy prices.
A recent MIT study warns that increasing levels of human-generated ozone will damage global vegetation, particularly crops, resulting in significant economic costs. By 2100, crop production is projected to decline by 10-12 percent, with the most affected regions being northern temperate areas.
Rochester Institute of Technology will conduct a year-long study on reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions from freight transportation in the Great Lakes region. The project aims to compare different modes of transportation, including shipping, road, and rail, based on cost, energy use, emissions, and time-of-delivery.
Eight Berkeley Lab scientists contributed to the IPCC's working group reports on global climate change, which won the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize. The researchers' efforts have helped build greater knowledge about man-made climate change and its impact, enabling measures to counteract such change.
The University-National Park Energy Partnership Program has funded nearly 70 projects at over 30 national parks, saving energy bills and educating future energy professionals. Students conduct energy audits, data analysis, and implement renewable energy measures such as solar and wind turbines in historic sites.