Spent nuclear fuel is anything but waste
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.
Energy Policy
Articles tagged with Energy Policy
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$6 million grant to fund center for robust decision-making on climate and energy policy
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.
Electricity pricing policies may make or break plug-in hybrid buys
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.
Developing countries can cut greenhouse gas emissions and help the poor
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.
Changes in energy R&D needed to combat climate change
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.
NSF grant to study national energy policy and technology impacts
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...
Berkeley Lab awarded $12.5 million to lead a US-China clean energy research center
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.
Watch your seas: Marine scientists call for European marine observatory network
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.
Fuel-efficiency formula needs cars wired with better brainpower, less vroom
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.
CO2 reduction policies in Spain strengthen the services sector
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.
Study paves way for new biofuels models, technologies
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.
Fossil-fuel subsidies hurting global environment, security
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.
Energy conservation in south could save billions, create jobs
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.
'Distributed energy' has power to save billions
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.
Governments 'misjudging' scale of CO2 emissions
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.
Queen's researchers propose rethinking renewable energy strategy
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.
Study: US biofuels policies flawed
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.
All sustainable transportation subsidies shouldn't be created equal, experts say
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.
Restaurant and packaged foods can have more calories than nutrition labeling indicates
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.
Rand Corporation study analyzes risks, benefits to Israel of increasing reliance on natural gas
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.
Stanford's Precourt Energy Efficiency Center awards new round of research grants
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.
Stanford researchers awarded $6.27 million to study energy efficiency and human behavior
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.
Simple measures can yield big greenhouse gas cuts, scientists say
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.
Building energy efficiency programs in Europe and Australia
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.
Key issues for the future of wind energy
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.
NSF awards Rutgers $7.6 million for sustainable energy development, graduate education
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.
11 leading national experts reach consensus on beneficial biofuels
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.
Plants save the earth from an icy doom
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.
British Climate Act 'failed before it started'
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.
MIT: Climate change odds much worse than thought
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.
Study: US-Canadian shale could neutralize Russian energy threat to Europeans
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...
Yale survey: Americans eager to reduce their energy use
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.
Carnegie Mellon to unveil new sequestration plan
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.
Stanford's Precourt Institute for Energy Efficiency awards new round of faculty research grants
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.
ConocoPhillips, Penn State announce energy prize
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.
FAS honors Mark D. Levine with 2008 Public Service Award
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 to receive Regional Policy Award from ESA
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.
Some biofuels might do more harm than good to the environment, study finds
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.
Precourt Institute for Energy Efficiency awards first faculty research grants
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.
Berkeley Lab examines state-level renewables portfolio standards policies
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.
Iowa Staters talk biofuels, healthy oils and 'pharma crops' at AAAS meeting
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 receives $1.85 million
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 really inconvenient truth: Divorce is not green
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.
Carnegie Mellon students win contest
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.
MIT sees acceleration in US greenhouse emissions
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.
MIT: Human-generated ozone will damage crops
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.
RIT to study air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions in the Great Lakes region
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.
Berkeley Lab scientists contribute to Nobel-Peace-Prize-winning climate change studies
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.
Universities partner with national parks to give historic sites energy makeovers
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.
Power switch
A recent study by Benjamin Sovacool recommends transitioning away from centralized coal and nuclear plants to small-scale decentralized generation technologies for a more sustainable energy sector. These alternatives are found to be feasible, affordable, environmentally friendly, reliable, and secure.
Policies for accelerating access to clean energy, improving health and mitigating climate change
The Lancet Series on Energy and Health emphasizes the need for policies promoting clean energy access to improve public health and mitigate climate disruption. Key targets include universal access to modern fuels, electricity supply, and improved cooking stoves by 2015.
Improving health through energy efficiency and technology in urban areas
The Lancet study highlights the potential of energy efficiency and technology to reduce temperature-related death and illness, as well as alleviate fuel poverty. Implementing renewable energy production and restructuring plans for built environments could lead to significant benefits for urban air quality and health.
Righting the balance: energy for health
The Lancet Series on Energy and Health highlights the critical link between energy and health, calling for global control of greenhouse gases and affordable technologies to reduce indoor air pollution. The series advocates for a low-carbon, low-energy transportation system and economic policies that mitigate harmful energy practices.
The future of biofuels is not in corn
A comprehensive review of biofuel literature reveals corn ethanol is the least sustainable feedstock, offsetting only 15% of gasoline demand. Cellulosic ethanol offers a 87% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, making it a more viable alternative for combating global warming.
National 'RPS' energy rules key to fixing flaws arising from a jumble of state policies
A national renewable portfolio standard (RPS) would create a level playing field for states by requiring utilities to use solar, wind and other renewable resources. The RPS would prevent price gouging and save money for consumers by preventing inconsistencies between state mandates.
Granthams to fund Institute for Climate Change at Imperial College London
The £12 million Grantham Institute will bring together leading researchers from Imperial College London to develop mitigation techniques and impact public and private policy. Current research areas include heatwave forecasting, airplane condensation trail reduction, and climate change modeling.
It's enough to turn your neighbors green
A study by Nives Dolsak and Maureen Dunn finds that developed countries invest in developing countries' greenhouse gas emission-reduction projects mainly due to economic reasons, such as reducing air pollution and transaction costs. The authors suggest policy makers to consider regional pollution dynamics when designing international r...
US signs international fusion energy agreement
The US joins an international collaboration to build ITER, a project aiming to demonstrate the scientific and technological feasibility of clean fusion energy. Fusion energy could provide significant amounts of electricity and generate hydrogen for fuel cell vehicles.
Examining the impact of renewable energy on the electric power grid
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute researchers are creating a distributed power test-bed to examine the effects of widespread adoption of clean, renewable energy sources on the utility grid. The project aims to understand how small-scale renewable energy generators will interact with the existing grid and identify potential stability iss...
DOE to invest $250 million in new bioenergy centers
The US Department of Energy is launching two new Bioenergy Research Centers to accelerate basic research on the development of cellulosic ethanol and other biofuels. The centers will focus on systems biology research on microbes and plants, with the goal of harnessing nature's own mechanisms for producing energy from sunlight.