Resources for energy management

Ultrasound World VIII to be Held in Florida

2012-01-26T08:46:59-06:00

Ultrasound World, a forum for ultrasound technology, has been scheduled for May 14-17, 2012, at the Clearwater Hilton in Clearwater Beach, Fla. Entering its eighth year, Ultrasound World has grown into one of the top conferences for reliability and energy conservation. This year’s program will feature presentations and short courses by users of ultrasound technology and will cover a wide range of topics for condition monitoring and energy conservation.

Among the presentations offered include “No More Equipment Failures! Can You Say That?” by Todd Fraser of Procter and Gamble, who will describe how his department dramatically reduced bearing failure incidents using ultrasound technology. The short course “Clean, Green and Reliable” will explain how equipment reliability delivers low-cost, energy-efficient assets at plants around the world. Other important topics, such as effective energy conservation practices and detecting and a

Case IH Plant Receives Energy Efficiency Certification

2012-01-20T08:33:21-06:00

The Case IH tractor plant in Racine, Wis., was recently accredited with ISO 50001 certification for energy management. The certification is intended to provide organizations with the framework for integrating energy practices into their management procedures.

To achieve ISO 50001 certification, the Racine tractor plant was audited by a third-party firm, UL-DQS, which recommended the plant to the American National Accreditation Board (ANAB). Under its current energy management system, the plant will continue to improve its energy efficiency and has formalized its process, tools, roles and responsibilities to ensure the system’s sustainability.

“This accreditation for ISO 50001 recognizes the Racine plant’s continuous improvement in energy efficiency and Case IH&rsqu

Solar Power Plant to be built on Arizona State Campus

2012-01-19T08:29:10-06:00

Salt River Project (SRP), Arizona State University (ASU) and SunPower Corporation have announced an agreement to build a 1-megawatt solar photovoltaic power plant at ASU's Polytechnic campus in Mesa, Ariz. The 1-megawatt facility will be the first commercial deployment of SunPower C7 Tracker technology, a solar photovoltaic tracking system that concentrates the sun's power and is designed to achieve the lowest levelized cost of electricity for solar power plants.

SunPower will engineer and construct the plant on the southeast corner of the ASU Polytechnic campus and will operate and maintain it. Under a purchase-power agreement, SRP will buy the entire output of the solar plant from SunPower, while ASU will purchase all of the energy attributable to the plant for use at its Polytechnic campus. The plant is expected to produce energy equal to that needed to serve about 225 SRP customers' homes. It will require minimal water use and will support ASU's renewable energy

Patti Engineering Completes Automation Project at Inman Mills Plant

2011-12-30T08:56:44-06:00

Patti Engineering Inc. has announced the successful completion of an automation project at the Inman Mills plant in Inman, S.C., which manufactures a wide variety of yarns and fabrics. This is the sixth textile manufacturing facility Patti Engineering has modernized with custom-designed automation technology.

Inman Mills purchased a pre-owned Autoflow system (conveyors, motors and control panels), including an obsolete electrical-control system. Inman hired Patti Engineering to design and install a state-of-the-art electrical-control system.

The latest PC hardware, Phoenix Contact’s Steeplechase Visual Logic Controller (VLC) and Iconics Graphical User Interface (GUI) software were used to build a fully integrated electrical-control system. In addition to the design and installation, Patti

Cargill Receives 2011 Dayton Award

2011-05-18T09:30:10-05:00

Lubricant Market Expands to Wind Turbines

2011-05-17T09:08:35-05:00

First Oil Reprocessing Plant in New England Almost Complete

2011-05-16T08:50:44-05:00

Expanded Lubrication Oil Monitoring for Gas Compressors

2011-04-12T14:13:57-05:00

Universal Lubricants set to recycle used oil for Colorado company

2011-04-06T16:59:01-05:00

ConAgra Foods Lamb Weston facility earns LEED certification

2011-01-20T16:31:48-06:00

ConAgra Foods Lamb Weston’s Delhi, La., processing facility received its official Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum certification on January 20, awarded by the U. S. Green Building Council (USGBC).

Study yields better turbine spacing for large wind farms

2011-01-20T15:48:14-06:00

Large wind farms are being built around the world as a cleaner way to generate electricity, but operators are still searching for the most efficient way to arrange the massive turbines that turn moving air into power.

Nissan obtains integrated ISO14001 certification for all main facilities in Japan

2011-01-20T08:28:27-06:00

Nissan Motor Company Ltd. on January 20 announced that it had received integrated ISO14001 certification, an international standard for environmental management systems, for the company's global headquarters and all of its main facilities in Japan covering the areas of research and development, production, distribution.

Energy projects transform trash to green power

2011-01-19T13:31:28-06:00

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recognized six landfill methane capture projects and partners for their innovation in generating renewable energy and protecting the climate and people’s health by reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. EPA has assisted with more than 490 landfill gas energy projects over the past 16 years, transforming waste into a green community asset. Landfill gas electricity generation projects have a capacity of 1,680 megawatts (MW) and provide the energy equivalent of powering more than 994,000 homes annually as a clean energy source. The United States currently has approximately 540 operational landfill gas energy projects.

Innovation and the transformation of the global energy system

2011-01-18T14:21:30-06:00

Experts in energy technology, research, policy and business discuss the importance of clean energy innovation and how it can be accelerated. These include:

Kristina Johnson, Under Secretary of  Energy, United States Department of Energy
Tim Woodward, managing director, Nth Power
Dan Reicher, director of climate and energy initiatives, Google
Dr. Ernie Moniz, director of the MIT Energy Initiative
Dr. Daniel Kammen, director of the Renewable and Appropriate Energy Laboratory, UC Berkeley
Dr. Lynn Orr, director of the Precourt Institute for Energy, Stanford University

GE ships 1,000th aeroderivative gas turbine

2011-01-14T14:11:10-06:00

GE on January 14 announced the shipment of its 1,000th LM6000 aeroderivative gas turbine to Black Hills Corporation as part of its Pueblo Airport Generation Station being constructed in Pueblo, Colo. GE’s 1,000 LM6000 gas turbines produced to date have accumulated 21.8 million operating hours for 260 customers in 43 countries on six different continents, including in 37 of the 50 United States.

13 Japanese companies eye smooth domestic launch of FCVs

2011-01-13T08:02:14-06:00

Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC), Nissan Motor Company, Honda Motor Company, JX Nippon Oil & Energy Corporation, Idemitsu Kosan Company, Iwatani Corporation, Osaka Gas Company, Cosmo Oil Company, Saibu Gas Company, Showa Shell Sekiyu K.K., Taiyo Nippon Sanso Corporation, Tokyo Gas Company and Toho Gas Company jointly announced the following details regarding the launch of mass-produced fuel-cell vehicles (FCVs) — one of a number of potential next-generation vehicles — in the Japanese market in 2015 and the development of the hydrogen supply infrastructure necessary for the successful adoption of the vehicles.

GE buys in to one of largest U.S. wind energy projects starting operations

2011-01-12T08:05:36-06:00

GE Energy Financial Services, a unit of GE, and Bankers Commercial Corporation, a unit of UnionBanCal Corporation, announced January 10 that they have purchased the first wind farm to start operations in one of the largest wind energy projects in the United States.

IBM study: Electric cars stir interest but face obstacles

2011-01-11T14:00:38-06:00

Many automobile industry executives believe that sales of traditional vehicles will peak before 2020 and are looking to electric-only vehicles (EVs) as one of the next hot products, but they will first have to address stringent consumer requirements about EV performance, recharging, and convenience, according to a new IBM survey of consumer attitudes and a recent study of auto industry executives.

Tools enable energy savings throughout Owens Corning

2011-01-10T13:07:04-06:00

Sustainability projects across Owens Corning’s operations have yielded valuable findings related to energy efficiency project planning and implementation, and have allowed the company to achieve substantial energy and cost savings.

Research: Nanotechnologies cut cost of green energy

2011-01-07T13:35:14-06:00

World investment in renewable energy will top $2 trillion on a cumulative basis from 2010 through 2015, driven by growth in Asia, North America and Europe as these regions lead in their efforts to increase production of energy from renewable sources. Were the companies building these generating plants to utilize existing, commercially available nanotechnologies, ABI Research estimates, over the same five-year period green power producers in the solar and wind markets could save nearly $300 billion in capital expenditure.

General Motors, Powermat to put added 'charge' in Chevy Volt

2011-01-06T08:31:54-06:00

General Motors and Powermat, a pioneer in wireless charging technology, announced a commercial agreement January 6 that will eliminate the need for charging cords for personal electronic devices in many future Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac products beginning mid-2012.

Mannington Mills tackles sub-metering system issues

2011-01-05T14:21:41-06:00

Richard Miller, corporate energy manager at Mannington Mills, tackles the following question: “I work as a facilities engineer for a mid-sized manufacturing firm and recently assumed the unofficial title of energy manager for our production unit. Lately, we have been experiencing communication gateway issues within our sub-metering system. What challenges has your company faced with its sub-metering system, and how can we capitalize on this experience at our facility?”

Harnessing coke oven gas: Company converts waste gas into power

2011-01-05T13:34:49-06:00

Helping to meet China’s strict emission standards, Jiangsu Tianue Energy & Chemical Group Company Ltd. is building a high-efficiency gas turbine power plant to utilize industrial dismissed gas into power and steam to meet increasing energy needs in the region. The power plant will be equipped with three GE aeroderivative gas turbines, which are the first LM2500+G4 units sold in China.

Hitachi Plant Technologies develops solar-activated air conditioning system

2011-01-05T09:00:47-06:00

Hitachi Plant Technologies Ltd. has recently developed an environmentally friendly solar-activated air conditioning system employing its own developed solar energy collector. The system reduces consumption of fossil fuels and carbon dioxide emissions remarkably.

Sustainability report illustrates environmental progress for electronics industry

2011-01-04T13:31:34-06:00

The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) on January 4 released the CEA 2010 Sustainability Report to highlight the tremendous progress the industry has made in its green initiatives, from designing more energy efficient products to cutting greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) at facilities, to developing a national electronics recycling infrastructure.

The history of electric vehicles: A 21st-century timeline

2010-12-30T13:29:49-06:00

The past decade has been the most significant 10-year period for electric vehicles (EVs) since the first 10 years of the 20th century, when 38 percent of cars in 1900 were charging up, many with the aid of Thomas Edison-designed electric technology.

DuPont earns prestigious sustainability award for recycling program

2010-12-30T08:13:05-06:00

DuPont recently received the 2010 Premio ECO Award in the Product Sustainability category for its role in a closed-loop recycling process for agrochemical multilayer bottles. DuPont Latin America president Eduardo Wanick accepted the award during an international ceremony in Säo Paulo, Brazil.

Fiat factory in India improves its power quality, productivity

2010-12-28T16:32:23-06:00

A power quality solution has boosted the power factor at a state-of-the-art Fiat car factory in India to 99.5 percent, and brought significant productivity benefits in terms of better welding quality and improved network stability.

FERC conference to advance smart grid interoperability standards

2010-12-28T08:19:31-06:00

On December 21, 2010, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) announced it will hold a technical conference* on smart grid interoperability standards. The purpose of the technical conference is to obtain further information to aid FERC's determination of whether there is "sufficient consensus" that the five families of standards posted by the National Institute of Standards and Technology are ready for the commission's consideration in a rulemaking proceeding, as directed by section 1305(d) of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007. The agenda for the conference will be issued in a subsequent notice.

AEP names McCullough executive vice president of generation

2010-12-27T09:09:46-06:00

Mark C. McCullough has been named executive vice president of generation for American Electric Power, effective January 1, 2011. He has been senior vice president for fossil and hydro generation since 2008.

Caterpillar facilities achieve zero waste to landfill in 2010

2010-12-27T08:27:26-06:00

In line with Caterpillar Inc.'s global commitment to sustainable development, two Caterpillar facilities achieved zero waste to landfill in 2010. The Caterpillar Remanufacturing & Components Division United Kingdom Hose Assembly (UKHA) plant in Leicester, England, and the Caterpillar Logistics Services (Cat Logistics) Desford, England operations have reached 100 percent recycling in their respective facilities.

Akzo Nobel Casco Adhesives strengthens its environmental management

2010-12-22T09:41:13-06:00

Casco Adhesives, part of Akzo Nobel, one of the world’s leading chemicals corporations, has signed an agreement with IFS to upgrade and extend its business applications to streamline processes and improve environmental management. The extension includes the implementation by Casco Adhesives of IFS Eco-footprint Management, which will be used to analyze and document the environmental impact of its operations throughout the value chain.

American Foods Group honored for excellence in energy management

2010-12-21T13:11:45-06:00

American Foods Group (AFG) of Green Bay, Wis. was recently honored for earning the prestigious Wisconsin Governor's Award for Excellence in Energy Management. This award is in recognition of American Foods Group's dedication to adopt energy-efficient and sustainable practices in Wisconsin. AFG, home to 1,500 employees, harvests 2,100 head of cattle daily and sends its meat products to grocery stores and food service establishments nationwide.

Honda to start electric vehicle testing program in Japan

2010-12-20T06:58:50-06:00

Honda Motor Company Ltd. on December 20 announced its plan to start its Electric Vehicle Testing Program with Saitama Prefecture in Japan for its next-generation personal mobility products, including electric vehicles (EVs), plug-in hybrid vehicles, electric scooters and electric carts. The specifics of the testing program, testing vehicles, and solar-powered charging stations made their public debut in that country.

Arizona Public Service, SunEdison announce construction of 10-megawatt solar power plant

2010-12-17T07:20:19-06:00

SunEdison, a subsidiary of MEMC Electronic Materials Inc., and Arizona Public Service Company on December 16 announced construction of a utility-scale photovoltaic solar power plant located two miles north of the Prescott Regional Airport. SunEdison will own and operate the plant with APS purchasing the entire output. APS estimates the 10-megawatt facility can provide enough power to meet the annual energy needs of 2,500 Arizona customers.

Crown Equipment recognized by EPA for environmental stewardship

2010-12-16T14:09:54-06:00

Crown Equipment Corporation, one of the world’s leading forklift manufacturers, was recently recognized for its sustainability efforts by earning Ohio’s annual award for Outstanding Achievement in Environmental Stewardship. Crown’s New Knoxville, Ohio, manufacturing facility received the award for accomplishing zero landfill waste output and achieving ISO 14001 Certificate of Registration. This is the third year Crown has received the award for its sustainability initiatives.

Intel, Ingersoll Rand, Siemens among new members of Smart Grid Coalition

2010-12-15T07:53:26-06:00

The Demand Response and Smart Grid Coalition (DRSG) on December 15 announced the addition of six new members. The new members are Intel, Ingersoll Rand, Siemens, Schneider Electric, UISOL and Constellation NewEnergy.

Webinar series helps firms implement energy assessment recommendations

2010-12-14T10:35:34-06:00

Each month, the Industrial Technologies Program presents a one-hour Webinar for plant and corporate energy leaders. These Webinars provide ideas to help address the different challenges that arise when implementing energy assessment recommendations.

Johnson Controls helps others – and Itself – with energy efficiency

2010-12-14T10:29:34-06:00

For Johnson Controls of Milwaukee – a company that offers products and services to dramatically improve energy efficiency in buildings – the commitment to sustainability dates back to the company's roots in 1885 with the invention of the first electric room thermostat. The company focuses on its own environmental performance with the same discipline that it applies with its customers, reviewing operations and supply chain to identify continuous improvement opportunities to make products in more earth-friendly ways.

California carpet manufacturer on a sustainability 'mission'

2010-12-14T10:27:28-06:00

As the largest commercial carpet manufacturer in California, Bentley Prince Street produces and ships more than four million yards of carpet each year at its 280,000-square-foot facility. At its City of Industry manufacturing plant, Bentley Prince Street is rapidly becoming recognized for its industry-leading sustainability practices, including a philosophy titled "Mission Zero."

Mercury Marine saves big with Six Sigma energy-savings project

2010-12-14T10:15:58-06:00

A Mercury Marine manufacturing leader explains the results of a Six Sigma project that saved energy and costs at its plant in Wisconsin.

General Motors surpasses landfill-free facilities commitment

2010-12-14T09:56:51-06:00

General Motors said December 13 that 52 percent of its worldwide facilities are now landfill-free, meaning all waste generated from normal operations is reused, recycled or converted to energy.

Siemens opens wind turbine nacelle assembly facility in Kansas

2010-12-09T08:52:54-06:00

In line with its ongoing U.S. manufacturing expansion efforts, Siemens Energy celebrated the official opening of its new wind turbine nacelle assembly facility in Hutchinson, Kan., on December 8. This is an important milestone in Siemens' growth strategy in the U.S., further demonstrating the company's stated commitment to U.S. investment and its confidence in the long-term future of the U.S. renewable energy market.

AK Steel receives Honda's Green Factory Environmental Achievement Award

2010-12-08T06:48:17-06:00

AK Steel has received Honda’s Green Factory Environmental Achievement Award in the category of Conservation of Natural Resources. The award recognizes the company for its ongoing environmental restoration efforts at its steel plant in Coshocton, Ohio.

Expanded use of nuclear energy will advance energy security, tech leadership and exports

2010-12-07T13:24:42-06:00

Nuclear power is a great export opportunity for America, but U.S. reactor suppliers like GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy (GEH) face unique hurdles in the global marketplace because they compete with companies owned or supported by foreign governments, according to GEH Chairman Jack Fuller. Fuller, a participant in the bipartisan New Millennium Nuclear Energy Summit in Washington, D.C., on December 7, released the following statement about the industry’s future prospects:

Research aims to enhance efficiency of wind turbines

2010-12-06T14:02:48-06:00

A new type of air-flow technology may soon increase the efficiency of large wind turbines under many different wind conditions.

Tour of Erickson Power Plant in Lansing, Mich.

2010-12-06T13:13:05-06:00

Lansing (Mich.) Board of Water and Light's Erickson Coal Plant was down for repair recently. This provided an opportunity to tour the facility and access stuff you can't normally see/touch.

GM receives Energy and Environmental Excellence Award

2010-12-06T06:48:24-06:00

General Motors received an Energy and Environmental Excellence Award from Hart Energy Publishing, recognizing the company’s progress toward the sustainable use of global natural resources and reducing its environmental footprint.

100% electric zero-emission Nissan LEAF debuts in Japan

2010-12-03T08:01:35-06:00

Nissan Motor Company Ltd. on December 3 announced the launch of the all-new 100 percent electric, zero-emission Nissan LEAF, which goes on sale December 20 at Nissan dealers throughout Japan. It will be followed by the United States, also in December, and in select European markets in early 2011. Release in other global markets is set for 2012.

The top 10 signs that electric vehicles have gone mainstream

2010-12-03T07:57:05-06:00

Electric vehicles have stormed into the American consciousness with news like the release of the Chevy Volt and the development of home chargers fueling the EV enthusiasm. But have EVs thoroughly penetrated mainstream culture? Here are the 10 clearest signs that EVs have officially hit the big-time.

Grupo Bimbo begins construction on world's largest wind farm for food industry

2010-12-02T13:01:01-06:00

On December 2, Daniel Servitje, chief executive officer of Grupo Bimbo, accompanied by the Secretary of Energy, Dr. Georgina Kessel, senior managers of the Comision Federal de Electricidad (Federal Commission for Electric Power), and the Energy Regulation Commission and with the presence of Officials from the Government of the State of Oaxaca, announced the start of construction work at the Piedra Larga wind farm.

Swagelok appoints director of sustainability

2010-12-02T12:49:01-06:00

Swagelok Company announced the appointment of Edward Bayer to director of sustainability. In this newly created position, Bayer will focus on the strategic use of energy within the company, including reducing Swagelok’s worldwide energy consumption and evaluating alternative energy sources. He will also support the company’s current conservation and recycling programs as part of its commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility.

Dow secures renewable biomass energy source at Brazilian facility

2010-12-01T07:23:37-06:00

The Dow Chemical Company on December 1 announced that its largest manufacturing facility in Brazil, the Aratu Complex, will add biomass to its portfolio of clean energy sources by the end of 2012. Upon project completion in December 2012, Aratu will be more than 75 percent sourced for power and steam through hydropower and eucalyptus cogeneration.

Survey: Only 7% of shoppers likely to consider electric car for next vehicle purchase

2010-11-30T08:58:31-06:00

Kelley Blue Book, www.kbb.com, the leading provider of new car and used car information, on November 30 reports the results of a recent Kelley Blue Book Market Intelligence study gauging consumer attitudes on electric vehicles. The latest results show that only 7 percent of car shoppers say they are likely to consider an electric vehicle for their next new-vehicle purchase or lease.

Nissan LEAF named 2011 European Car of the Year

2010-11-30T08:18:45-06:00

In a historic moment for Nissan Motor Company Ltd. and zero-emission vehicles, the 100 percent electric Nissan LEAF was awarded 2011 European Car of the Year.

Konarka Power Plastic achieves record efficiency certification

2010-11-29T07:09:16-06:00

Konarka Technologies Inc., an innovator in development and commercialization of Konarka Power Plastic, a material that converts light to energy, announced that the National Energy Renewable Laboratory (NREL) has certified that Konarka’s organic-based photovoltaic (OPV) solar cells have demonstrated a record-breaking 8.3 percent efficiency. This is the highest performance recorded by NREL for an organic photovoltaic solar cell.

PSEG applauds move to accelerate offshore wind development

2010-11-24T09:45:57-06:00

Scott Jennings, president of PSEG Global, issued the following statement regarding Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar on November 23 announcing an initiative to facilitate siting, leasing and construction of offshore wind projects off the Atlantic Coast.

Whirlpool named to Newsweek's second annual Green Rankings list

2010-11-23T14:17:00-06:00

Whirlpool Corporation has once again been recognized as one of the top 500 U.S. companies in Newsweek's second annual Green Rankings, which lists the greenest large companies in the U.S. and globally. Whirlpool ranked 116th on the list.

Programs help Harrison Steel improve energy efficiency

2010-11-23T11:49:34-06:00

Industrial companies that are interested in reducing energy consumption and the associated costs should examine the results that Harrison Steel has realized by partnering with both the DOE Save Energy Now and EPA Energy Star programs.

Hasbro sets new environmental sustainability goals

2010-11-22T16:49:18-06:00

Hasbro Inc. announced November 22 that it will be taking a wide range of steps in the coming years to build upon its successes in the areas of corporate responsibility and environmental sustainability.

Researchers look to convert tidal energy into electricity

2010-11-22T16:42:04-06:00

Interest in developing alternative energy sources is driving the consideration of a promising technology that uses underwater turbines to convert ocean tidal flow energy into electricity.

With commercialization of electric cars, planes are close behind

2010-11-22T14:20:39-06:00

Now that electric cars have hit the mainstream, it raises the question, what about other forms of transportation running on electricity? Specifically, will we ever see electric planes flying over the horizon? Believe it or not, they’re already here.

Toyota outlines eco-car plans, battery research progress

2010-11-22T07:07:00-06:00

Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) announced details of its plans for "eco-car" development and launches and of progress in next-generation secondary-battery research — both part of environmental technology efforts aimed at limiting oil consumption and reducing carbon dioxide emissions through the use of electricity and other alternative energies.

Chevrolet invests in clean energy projects across America

2010-11-22T06:51:15-06:00

Chevrolet announced last week that it will invest $40 million in various clean energy projects throughout America with a goal to reduce 8 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions. The initiative is based on projects that promote energy savings, renewable energy, responsible use of natural resources and conservation in communities across the United States.

Verso Paper launches renewable energy project at Maine mill

2010-11-19T10:30:25-06:00

Verso Paper Corporation announced November 19 the launch of a $40 million Renewable Energy Project at its Bucksport, Maine, mill. This project will provide a 43 percent increase in thermal energy production from renewable biomass at the Bucksport Mill and will generate additional green power – equivalent to the amount needed to supply electricity to 30,000 Maine households.

Just how loud is a wind turbine?

2010-11-19T10:09:40-06:00

Because wind turbines are such a great source of clean, renewable energy, they’re usually greeted with a great deal of enthusiasm. But some complaints have been made that they can cause too much noise for residents living within a mile of the blades. So just how noisy are these turbines?

U.S. Foodservice deploys Orion Energy Systems LED technology at multiple sites

2010-11-19T09:44:22-06:00

Orion Energy Systems Inc. on November 18 announced that U.S. Foodservice will deploy Orion's LED technology and intelligent occupancy sensors in freezers at five of its facilities, including Little Rock, Ark.; Oklahoma City, Okla.; Boca Raton, Fla.; Norwich, Conn.; and Zebulon, N.C.

Manufacturing cost-reduction strategies at SunPower

2010-11-16T09:28:38-06:00

SunPower has become synonymous with record setting solar cells conversion efficiencies but has come under criticism for high manufacturing costs. PV-Tech talked to Richard Swanson, president and CTO, about the recent global PV market as well as the thorny issue of cost competiveness for SunPower. Swanson highlights what the company is doing to remain a serious player and why SunPower's technology remains a key differentiator in the utility market against thin-film alternatives.

GE, partners name five winners of 'ecomagination Challenge'

2010-11-16T09:17:46-06:00

GE unveiled on November 16 the five innovation award winners of its $200 million open innovation challenge, the “GE ecomagination Challenge: Powering the Grid.” The Challenge, launched in July, is part of GE’s ecomagination commitment to accelerate development of the next generation power grid and global energy transformation through open collaboration.

GE explains why fleets are ideal for early EV adoption

2010-11-16T09:09:50-06:00

How close are we to a tipping point for large-scale electric vehicle adoption? Following GE’s move last week to buy 25,000 electric vehicles for its own fleet and its fleet customers, today the nonprofit Electrification Coalition released its detailed, 80-page analysis, the Fleet Electrification Roadmap. It spells out the advantages, challenges, and policies necessary to spur electric drive technology in commercial and government vehicles.

Honda suppliers earn environmental achievement awards

2010-11-15T17:48:38-06:00

As part of its global initiative to reduce the impact of manufacturing on the environment, Honda presented its prestigious Green Factory Environmental Achievement Award to eight parts suppliers in North America that have excelled at conserving natural resources, reducing energy use and eliminating waste to landfills.

Tour of a 'green' tortilla chip manufacturing plant

2010-11-15T09:28:49-06:00

Lee Patrick Sullivan tours the Shearer's tortilla chip factory, the world's first LEED Platinum certified snack food plant, and interviews its manager, Ken Brower.

It starts in the room where Shearer's unloads its corn from trucks and cooks it using recycled heat from the infrared oven that's used to bake the chips. That allows water to come into the cooking kettles at about 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant also uses real corn, right off the cob, not corn mash like some other plants. The room is lit using skylights and large windows, and the in-house lighting is adjusted according to the amount of natural light coming in. Brower says this lighting system is the key component that allows the factory to use 30 percent less energy than others of the same size. Brower says it allows the company to buy higher-quality materials and produce a better product than its competitors, while offering it to consumers at a competitive cost.

Brower says the energy-saving components aren't all that revolutionary, just a lot of commonsense ideas that are being put together in a manufacturing plant for the first time. Brower says the reason other plants don't have these features is because it would cost a lot of money to retrofit an existing building, Shearer's was able to save some money by incorporating them into a new plant, but it is getting ready to put some of the same features into an older plant.

The centerpiece of the plant is its infrared oven, which bakes the chips before they are fried. Brower says the oven is built to save energy by drawing the air it heats from its own output. he compares it to a home chimney, which pulls in air from the bottom, heats it, and sends most of that eat up the chimney. This oven starts with air that has already been heated, so it does not require as much energy to reach the proper baking temperature. He says it's the first one of its kind and about 47 percent more efficient than others on the market.

Energy management and green manufacturing in the food and beverage industry

2010-11-15T09:26:43-06:00

When people need energy, they often grab a snack. But have you ever thought about how snack foods could actually save energy?

In Sustainable Snacks, Lee Patrick Sullivan looks at building practices and manufacturing practices that could change not only the food industry, but industry in general. Lee Patrick visits the world's first LEED Platinum certified snack food factory in Ohio, one that uses the sun for most lighting and an infrared oven to heat its corn chip cooking water. He talks to Energy Secretary Steven Chu at the plant's opening.
Then he buys a Wisconsin man a beer at a sustainable brewery that uses solar power for both heating and beer production, and uses equipment that's been repurposed from other plants. The factory and brewery owners think the practices he's seen here can make for more energetic snacks, with less energy wasted.

General Mills unveils 2015 sustainability goals, reports progress on 2010 goals

2010-11-12T14:02:10-06:00

From harnessing wind power in Spain to reducing water usage in Georgia, General Mills detailed its progress in four environmental sustainability areas on November 12, and announced new environmental sustainability goals for 2015.

Smart grid efficiency could make 2010's energy usage 'disappear'

2010-11-12T13:59:10-06:00

Whenever smart grid experts talk about transforming the nation’s aging power grid, the focus is usually on the efficiency that will result. And for good reason — the potential gains are so huge, they might just exceed our current electrical usage. At this week’s Advanced Energy 2010 Conference in New York City, GE’s Bob Gilligan laid out a scenario in which the total U.S. energy consumption and emissions saved between 2010 and 2030 could exceed the entire electrical consumption and electrical CO2 output for all of 2010.

Menasha Corporation installs five wind turbines at Wisconsin complex

2010-11-12T13:21:47-06:00

Menasha Corporation on November 11 announced that it plans to install five wind turbines for electrical generation at its office and manufacturing complex on the southwest side of Neenah, Wis., along Highway 41. The installation of five wind turbines is the largest announced by a business to date in northeastern Wisconsin.

Solar panel manufacturing plant opens in Las Vegas

2010-11-10T09:46:58-06:00

Amonix recently opened a large solar panel manufacturing plant in North Las Vegas, Nev.

Top 10 nations for smart grid investment

2010-11-10T08:27:53-06:00

In 2010, China is the worldwide leader, having designated $7.32 billion for smart grid investment, based on data from Zpryme Research & Consulting, an Austin, Texas, research and consulting firm that draws on stated federal spending figures.

Tyson Foods, Syntroleum joint venture opens advanced biofuels plant in Louisiana

2010-11-09T06:52:57-06:00

Operations are underway at the new Dynamic Fuels plant, which is successfully converting animal fats and greases into high-quality renewable fuels, officials from Syntroleum Corporation and Tyson Foods Inc. announced on November 8. Production began in early October and the volume currently being produced is 2,500 barrels per day and growing.

Honda Manufacturing of Indiana receives LEED Green Building Certification

2010-11-09T06:47:28-06:00

Honda Manufacturing of Indiana LLC (HMIN) in Greensburg, Ind., has received LEED Green Building Certification for its Welcome Center, the company announced on November 8. The center is the ninth Honda facility in North America to earn LEED certification since 2008.

Kimberly-Clark displays environmental leadership with carbon offsetting program

2010-11-08T08:54:01-06:00

Fast on the heels of unveiling its new environmentally responsible trade show booth in July, Kimberly-Clark Professional is taking the next step in reducing the environmental impact of its trade show activities through a partnership with Carbonfund.org. Starting with its exhibit at the ISSA/INTERCLEAN Show, November 9-12 in Orlando, Fla., Kimberly-Clark Professional will offset the carbon emissions associated with its trade show activities and the activities of customers visiting its booth.

GM publishes 'Blue Paper' for sustainable urban mobility

2010-11-08T08:26:04-06:00

On November 7, General Motors published its "Blue Paper" for sustainable urban mobility - a road map for overcoming mobility and urbanization challenges

TVA keeps reliability high, prices low during challenging year

2010-11-04T14:30:44-05:00

The Tennessee Valley Authority delivered good performance in 2010, keeping reliability high and prices competitive, despite stress that extreme weather placed on TVA's electric power infrastructure, president and CEO Tom Kilgore told the utility's board of directors on Thursday, November 4.

After 40 years, father of electric vehicle R&D finally sees tipping point

2010-11-04T14:17:17-05:00

For almost 40 years, the world’s population has faced an indisputable fact: our energy needs are outpacing our supply. And now, the need for new energy technologies is more urgent than ever.

ABB extends life cycle commitment for Symphony control system

2010-11-04T10:20:43-05:00

ABB, the leading power and automation technology group, is extending the life cycle commitment for its Symphony Harmony and Symphony Melody range of control systems.

Panasonic invests $30M in Tesla; companies strengthen collaborative relationship

2010-11-04T08:44:22-05:00

Panasonic Corporation and Tesla Motors on November 3 announced that Panasonic has invested $30 million in Tesla. The investment was made through the purchase of Tesla common stock in a private placement at a price of $21.15 per share. The investment builds upon a multi-year collaboration of the two companies to accelerate the market expansion of the electric vehicle.

Alstom inaugurates hydropower manufacturing facility in China

2010-11-04T08:32:44-05:00

Alstom on November 4 inaugurated its new hydropower manufacturing facility at Tianjin in China. The new factory will place Alstom in a better position to supply its customers in China and abroad, while offering opportunities for further expansion in China’s healthy hydropower market, which accounts for 22 percent of the country’s electricity generation capacity and is expanding at a rate of 15 gigawatts per year.

Snyder’s of Hanover begins construction of solar farm

2010-11-03T16:05:21-05:00

Snyder’s of Hanover will begin construction on a solar farm that will be the largest ground-based solar energy system in Pennsylvania, with more than 16,000 panels spanning 20 acres. It’s the latest project in the snack food company’s plan to reduce its carbon footprint.

Kimberly-Clark ranked among greenest companies in the U.S.

2010-11-02T14:06:28-05:00

The Kimberly-Clark Corporation made the most environmental progress within the consumer products/car category among the top 100 companies over the past year, according to Newsweek’s 2010 Green Rankings of the largest 500 companies. Newsweek ranked Kimberly-Clark No. 76, up from No. 120 in 2009 among the largest 500 companies, and No. 8, up from No. 10 in 2009 among the consumer products/car category companies this year.

Intel heads EPA list of top green power purchasers

2010-11-01T14:13:56-05:00

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on November 1 released its list of the top 50 organizations using the most renewable electricity. The Green Power Partnership’s top purchasers use more than 12 billion kilowatt-hours (kWh) of green power annually, equivalent to avoiding the carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from the electricity use of more than 1 million average American homes. Green power is generated from renewable resources such as solar, wind, geothermal, biogas and low-impact hydropower.

Ford taps experts to examine opportunities, challenges of electric cars

2010-11-01T08:22:14-05:00

Ford Motor Company on October 29 convened key experts from the city of Chicago and ComEd to examine critical issues related to consumer adoption of electric vehicles. Ford has been working to engage utilities, city and state governments and infrastructure providers in efforts to promote the commercialization of electrified vehicles to reduce CO2 emissions and increase energy security.

Toro partners with ATK to develop fuel cell-powered utility vehicles

2010-11-01T07:54:57-05:00

The Toro Company was selected by ATK, an aerospace and defense company, to help design and build two fuel cell powered utility vehicles with advanced hydrogen storage technology. The project is part of a contract awarded to ATK by the Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane Division, which is collaborating with the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) to coordinate hydrogen storage development efforts for the U.S. Department of Energy.

Why electric vehicles need a smarter grid

2010-11-01T07:09:41-05:00

With electric vehicle adoption by consumers heading toward a tipping point, utilities and cities are busy planning just how to meet the power demands of millions of EVs. In an essay published today in Forbes, GE’s Bob Gilligan, who is the vice president for GE’s digital energy business, makes the case that the environmental and economical benefits of EVs will be stunted if their cords don’t plug into a smarter grid.

Nissan presents mobility concept for sustainable zero-emission society

2010-11-01T07:05:48-05:00

Nissan Motor Company Ltd. on October 29 announced a proposal for new mobility in a sustainable zero emission society and an electric vehicle (EV) embodying its proposal, "NISSAN New Mobility CONCEPT".

Abbott recognized for environmental initiatives in Illinois

2010-10-28T15:39:34-05:00

Abbott announced October 28 that it has received the annual Illinois Continuous Improvement Award for environmental excellence. It is the ninth time Abbott has been honored for its efforts to safeguard the environment and integrate sustainability initiatives at its corporate headquarters and throughout its operations in Illinois.

Will the cost of electric cars come down? A Q&A session with A123

2010-10-27T06:37:27-05:00

Astonishing fuel efficiency, reductions in CO2 pollution and the ability to charge your battery at home are just a few of the benefits that electric vehicles offer. Of course, the only step left between us and a world filled with electric vehicles is actual adoption of EVs by drivers.

Toyota, three partner firms start joint battery-to-battery recycling

2010-10-27T06:25:10-05:00

Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC), Toyota Chemical Engineering Company Ltd. (Toyota Chemical Engineering), Sumitomo Metal Mining Company Ltd. (Sumitomo Metal Mining) and Primearth EV Energy Company Ltd. (PEVE) on October 27 announced the launch of the world's first business to recycle nickel in used hybrid-vehicle nickel-metal-hydride batteries for use in new nickel-metal-hydride batteries.

Alcoa receives green power award

2010-10-22T13:32:51-05:00

Alcoa was honored with the Green Power: Turn It On! Award from Citizens for Pennsylvania's Future (PennFuture) for its continued commitment to sustainability. Alcoa was recognized for using renewable, clean energy for 60 percent of its smelting operations, providing energy-efficient materials for green buildings, having an employee energy reduction program, and leading the industry in the recycling and reusing of aluminum beverage cans.

Molson Coors recognized as leader in environmental stewardship

2010-10-22T08:51:51-05:00

Molson Coors Brewing Company has been recognized in two recent reports for its sustainability efforts and environmental transparency. The Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) 2010 S&P 500 report recognizes global companies making an effort to tackle climate change. In the report, Molson Coors was included in the Carbon Disclosure Leadership Index, which is a key component of CDP’s annual S&P 500 Report, highlighting the companies within the S&P 500 Index that have displayed the most professional approach to corporate governance in respect of climate change disclosure practices. Molson Coors is the only global brewer to be recognized in the family of Carbon Disclosure Leadership Indices.

Sustainability at the J.R. Simplot Company

2010-10-22T07:20:10-05:00

For more than 80 years, sustainability has been at the foundation of the J.R. Simplot Company. The company's mission of Bringing Earth's Resources to Life is delivered in an integrated portfolio that includes phosphate mining, fertilizer manufacturing, farming,ranching, cattle production, food processing, food brands and other enterprises related to agriculture. The firm, though vast in scope - with facilities in 14 countries and four continents employing approximately 10,000 people - conducts its business with a simple philosophy: to do well by honoring its commitments.

2011 Green Car of the Year finalists revealed

2010-10-22T07:13:05-05:00

Green Car Journal announced October 21 its five finalists for the 2011 Green Car of the Year, including the 2011 Chevrolet Volt, 2011 Ford Fiesta, 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid and the 2011 Nissan LEAF. For the sixth consecutive year, this increasingly important award will be announced during a press conference at the LA Auto Show Press Days on November 18.

Raytheon heralded as one of America's green companies

2010-10-22T06:36:02-05:00

Raytheon Company has been ranked as the 75th greenest company in America in the second annual Newsweek Green Rankings. The magazine evaluated the 500 largest publicly traded companies in America.

Dow improves energy efficiency of Texas City operations

2010-10-21T14:32:03-05:00

Dow Chemical is testing the elements of the Superior Energy Performance energy management certification program. This article explains the challenges and benefits Dow has experienced by implementing a new energy management standard into its existing corporate energy management system.

GE examines real state of electric vehicles in a billion-car world

2010-10-21T08:39:37-05:00

With the Chevy Volt hitting the market soon, the buzz on electric vehicles (“EVs”) is reaching a media fever pitch. Environmental and energy blogs are understandably excited and the business press is kicking the tires to see if an EV world could really be possible.

Butterball selects EPS to increase energy efficiency

2010-10-20T14:30:42-05:00

EPS Corp on October 20 announced that Butterball, LLC, the largest producer of turkey products in the United States, has selected EPS’ xChange Point real-time energy management and carbon reduction solution as a technology enabler to achieve its energy efficiency and sustainability goals. xChange Point will initially be deployed at Butterball’s manufacturing facility in Mt. Olive, N.C., to analyze current energy consumption and carbon emissions, identify areas for the greatest improvement, and design a strategy to increase overall plant energy efficiency.

The top five GE technologies that turn waste into energy

2010-10-20T14:16:12-05:00

Honda issues 2010 North American Environmental Report

2010-10-20T14:06:49-05:00

Honda released its sixth annual report on the company's environmental footprint in North America, and efforts being made to minimize the environmental impact of Honda's operations in the region. The report also includes a detailed review of the various technology approaches that Honda is taking in its efforts to address the issue of global climate change, perhaps the most serious and far-reaching environmental issue facing society today. The 2010 North American Environmental Report, published in electronic format only, can be viewed and downloaded here.

SKF awarded LEED green building certification

2010-10-20T06:18:00-05:00

SKF USA Inc. announced October 18 at a special ceremony attended by Pennsylvania Governor Edward G. Rendell and approximately 500 employees and distinguished guests, that it has been awarded Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum certification, established by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and verified by the Green Building Certification Institute.

Ford, Dominion Virginia Power team to prepare state for electric vehicles

2010-10-19T07:19:34-05:00

Ford Motor Company and Dominion Virginia Power on October 18 announced they are coordinating efforts to help prepare Virginia for the operation of electric vehicles. Ford and Dominion will work together to develop consumer outreach and education programs on electric vehicles as well as share information on charging needs and requirements to ensure the electrical grid can support the necessary demand.

Pilot program to train young adults for skilled jobs in energy industry

2010-10-18T06:48:45-05:00

The Ohio Energy Workforce Consortium (OEWC) announced its participation in the launch of a national program to train low-income, young adults for skilled energy jobs as part of a larger, eight-state initiative by the D.C.-based Center for Energy Workforce Development (CEWD).

GE nuclear reactor eats its own waste

2010-10-18T06:38:36-05:00

As The New York Times observed in its Sunday story on nuclear power, just a few years ago, utilities were telling the Nuclear Regulatory Commission they wanted to build 28 new reactors. Fast forward to today, with the economy driving down energy demand and prices — and climate legislation on the backburner — and those reactors are still on the drawing board. But technological breakthroughs can transform a sluggish sector into a futuristic game-changer. Case in point: GE Hitachi’s Advanced Recycling Center, (ARC). The ARC technology is basically the anti-nuke: it actually burns nuclear waste (even weapons-grade plutonium), and emits exactly zero CO2.

Chrysler's Trenton South facility receives honor for environmental contributions

2010-10-15T14:01:42-05:00

Chrysler Group LLC's Trenton (Mich.) South Engine Plant was presented with The Michigan Plaque on October 15 in recognition of the plant's landscaping enhancements, helping make it one of the most environmentally-friendly facilities in the world. The Michigan Plaque is awarded by Keep Michigan Beautiful, Inc., a non-profit organization that encourages the improvement of environmental quality across the state.

Universities help Ford tackle sustainability issues

2010-10-15T13:54:04-05:00

Ford is collaborating with two universities on separate sustainability projects, seeking to increase the company’s knowledge on water consumption and human rights, two key issues in its global operations.

Owens Corning recognized for commitment to sustainability

2010-10-15T07:01:00-05:00

Owens Corning, a world leader in building materials and glass fiber reinforcements, has been added to the 2010 Calvert Social Index, a stock market benchmark for measuring the performance of large, U.S.-based socially responsible companies.

Power plant alters way it determines moisture in lube oils

2010-10-14T14:51:56-05:00

For years, Karl Fischer (KF) titrations have been used to measure the degree of water in oil, but this analytical method can have limitations. Three years ago, Ferrybridge C Power Station in England replaced its KF method and now uses Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis to measure and control the level of water contamination in lubricating fluids. It found that the FTIR analyzer provides accurate data in less time and with less complication than the KF titration.

Emerson to digitally automate power plant in China

2010-10-14T14:45:46-05:00

The Pingdingshan Luyang power plant in China’s Henan Province will use Emerson technologies to manage critical processes, increase plant efficiencies and boost megawatt production to support the region’s economic development and population growth.

How 'green' is your energy consumption?

2010-10-14T14:19:54-05:00

Environmental responsibility is becoming more than just not discharging pollutants into the nearby stream or emitting toxic materials into the atmosphere. Many companies are making the decision to “go green” to show their customers, shareholders and employees that they care about the environment; and as an equal incentive, they look to lower energy consumption, increase equipment reliability and cause a positive change to the profit and loss statement. As the leadership of an organization begins to look for potential areas to make investments to achieve these goals, they often look at their production processes to find these opportunities. Many times, the areas of the business that provide the greatest return are overlooked and investments are made in areas that don’t generate the energy savings expected.

Shell partners with MIT to pursue new energy technology solutions

2010-10-14T08:20:32-05:00

Shell and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) on October 14 signed an agreement to invest $25 million in the research and development of high value, sustainable technologies designed to drive innovation in energy delivery.

IBM and NV Energy team on large-scale smart grid deployment

2010-10-13T12:46:38-05:00

IBM on October 13 announced that it is the systems integrator for NV Energy's Advanced Service Delivery project that includes smart grid technology, advanced meter infrastructure and meter data management. NV Energy, serving 1.4 million electric and gas customers in Nevada, is leading a comprehensive deployment of smart grid technologies, with support from the Department of Energy's (DOE) $138 million stimulus grant.

U.S. solar jobs census finds solar employment on the rise

2010-10-13T12:41:46-05:00

The Solar Foundation, a non-profit solar education and research organization, today released a first-of-its-kind review of the solar workforce in the United States. The report, titled, "National Solar Jobs Census 2010: A Review of the U.S. Solar Workforce" found that hiring in the solar workforce is on the rise. More than half of solar employers nationally plan to increase their workforce in the next year.

Nissan issues report on ecosystem and biodiversity with U.N. university

2010-10-13T08:29:16-05:00

Nissan Motor Company Ltd. on October 12 announced it has compiled results of the collaborative research on ties between ecosystem / biodiversity conservation and the automotive sector, which it has been conducting since 2007 with the United Nations University Institute of Advanced Studies. The research is in line with the company's mid-term environmental action plan "Nissan Green Program 2010". The cooperative research report will be posted on the Nissan official website today.

Michigan readies as U.S. prepares for electric vehicles

2010-10-13T08:24:54-05:00

More than 5,300 home and workplace charging stations are planned to be installed in Michigan as the state prepares for the introduction of new electric vehicle technology. General Motors and its partners are teaming up to help give Chevrolet Volt buyers more options for charging their vehicles.

Planar power: An alternative to lithium-ion batteries

2010-10-13T08:05:10-05:00

A flat sodium-nickel chloride battery could deliver 30 percent more power at lower temperatures than its cylindrical counterpart, making it a viable alternative to lithium-ion batteries for storing wind and solar power on the grid, according to work published by the Department of Energy’s Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in the October 8 issue of ECS Transactions.

Why it's hard to crash the electric grid

2010-10-13T08:02:49-05:00

A new study shows why terrorists would have a hard time bringing down the U.S. electric grid.

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BMW introduces hydrogen fuel cell material handling equipment

2010-10-11T13:34:22-05:00

BMW Manufacturing Company announced October 10 that it is implementing a new alternative fuel platform to use hydrogen fuel cells to power the plant’s material handling equipment. Hydrogen fuel cell-powered forklifts, tuggers and stackers will be used in BMW’s new assembly hall that produces the new BMW X3 Sports Activity Vehicle.

Clear Edge Power CEO interviewed at Opportunity Green 2010

2010-10-11T09:54:16-05:00

Russell Ford, president and CEO of Clear Edge Power, is interviewed at the Opportunity Green 2010 conference.

Ford joined ClearEdge Power as president and CEO in May 2009. He has more than 25 years of executive management experience in engineering, product development, manufacturing and operations. Prior to joining ClearEdge Power, Ford served as CEO of Prestolite Electric, a global tier-one supplier to commercial and military vehicle OEMs; COO of Holley Performance Products; senior vice president of operations for Lockheed Martin's Aeronautics Division; general manager of Allied Signal's Gas Turbine Division; and other engineering and manufacturing assignments. He holds Six Sigma black belt and Shingijutzu Lean Expert certifications.

Duke Energy completes fourth Wyoming wind farm

2010-10-11T09:35:59-05:00

Duke Energy's Top of the World Windpower Project near Casper, Wyo., is now on line and producing clean, renewable electricity.

In 1917, electric vehicles reigned, and Edison charged them

2010-10-08T12:24:35-05:00

The sudden rush of electric vehicle (or “EV”) developments — from new models being introduced, to breakthroughs in battery technology, to sleek new EV chargers — makes what seems like futuristic technology suddenly within reach of everyday drivers. But the truth is that today’s EV headlines could be ripped from a newspaper in 1917.

The bulb Edison invested is going away

2010-10-07T14:11:29-05:00

December 31, 2011—exactly 132 years later—will mark another dramatic turning point in the history of lighting in the United States. That will be the last day manufacturers will be able to legally make a 100-watt incandescent bulb for sale in the U.S.

NIST identifies five 'foundational' smart grid standards

2010-10-07T13:50:57-05:00

The Commerce Department's National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has advised the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) that it has identified five "foundational" sets of standards for smart grid interoperability and cyber security that are ready for consideration by federal and state energy regulators.

Dow student challenge fosters new ideas for sustainable solutions

2010-10-07T09:14:11-05:00

The Dow Chemical Company is proud to announce the second annual Dow Sustainability Innovation Student Challenge Awards program. Developed in alignment with the company’s sustainability commitments, the Dow Sustainability Innovation Student Challenge recognizes and rewards students and universities for research and innovation to promote sustainable solutions to the world’s most pressing social, economic and environmental problems.

Toyota develops advanced energy management system

2010-10-06T08:53:53-05:00

Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) announced the development of the TOYOTA Smart Center, a system that links homes, vehicles, electric power companies and users, and enables integrated control of energy consumption. TMC developed the system as a part of its smart-grid initiatives, which are intended to support efficient energy use toward the realization of a low-carbon society.

Harrison Steel leverages programs to maximize energy efforts

2010-10-05T11:35:56-05:00

Through partnerships with the U.S. Department of Energy's Industrial Technologies Program and the Environmental Protection Agency's Energy Star for Industry Program, Harrison Steel Casting Company has achieved significant energy (and cost) savings.

Del Monte finds gravy train of savings from DOE assessment

2010-10-01T14:39:33-05:00

The U.S. Department of Energy "Save Energy Now" program completed an Energy Savings Assessment at the Del Monte Foods plant in Hanford, Calif. The objectives of the assessment were to identify compressed air system improvement recommendations, train plant personnel in how to correctly model the current system, and predict potential savings using a DOE software tool. Read this case study and see how Del Monte harvested outstanding savings from this work.

Alcoa's long-term commitment to energy efficiency

2010-09-29T09:13:48-05:00

In May, Alcoa joined the Save Energy Now initiative as a LEADER, pledging to reduce its energy intensity 25 percent over the next 10 years. As a company that spends more than $2 billion on energy, that reduction in energy intensity means that Alcoa has the potential to save more than $500 million annually on their energy spending.

Senator: EPA's new boiler rule could kill nearly 800,000 industrial jobs

2010-09-29T08:39:56-05:00

James Inhofe, the top Republican on a Senate environmental panel, released a scathing report on September 28 that he contends shows that the Environmental Protection Agency's new proposed rule on cleaning up boilers nationwide could devastate America's manufacturing base and imperil hundreds of thousands of jobs without providing any real public health or environmental benefits.

Procter & Gamble unveils sustainability vision

2010-09-27T14:13:03-05:00

The Procter & Gamble Company on September 27 accelerated its commitment to sustainability by unveiling a long-term environmental sustainability vision. As part of P&G's strategy to grow responsibly, the company will work toward a long-term environmental sustainability vision that includes: powering its plants with 100 percent renewable energy; using 100 percent renewable or recycled materials for all products and packaging; having zero consumer and manufacturing waste go to landfills; and designing products that delight consumers while maximizing the conservation of resources.

Dow Chemical named to Carbon Disclosure Leadership Index

2010-09-27T14:05:20-05:00

For the sixth year, the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) has named The Dow Chemical Company to the “Carbon Disclosure Leadership Index,” reinforcing Dow’s leadership in energy efficiency and its commitment to innovative climate change solutions that contribute to human progress and the growth of its business. CDP has included Dow in the index in recognition of Dow’s internal data management and its understanding of climate change related issues affecting the company.

GE and Harbin form joint venture for wind turbines in China

2010-09-27T13:40:55-05:00

Already the world’s largest wind turbine market, China is projected to grow its capacity by an additional 500 percent — growing from 25 gigawatts in 2009 to a whopping 150 gigawatts by 2020. That aggressive wind development plan comes as China’s overall electricity demand is growing at a rate of 12 percent per year. To help make that renewables growth possible, GE and a subsidiary of Harbin Power Equipment Company on September 27 announced that they’re forming a joint venture to manufacture and supply a range of GE-designed wind turbines for land-based, near-shore and offshore applications in China’s $13 billion wind market.

Hybrid-electric Porsche GT3R is bleeding-edge technology

2010-09-27T09:14:25-05:00

On October 2, the green flag marking the beginning of the Petit Le Mans race in Braselton, Ga., will take on a different meaning. The 1,000-mile, 10-hour American Le Mans Series endurance contest will feature five alternative fueled vehicles. Among them: the hybrid-electric Porsche 911 GT3R, which is making its North American racing debut.

Kenworth receives Green Manufacturing Award from business association

2010-09-27T08:01:28-05:00

Kenworth Truck Company was honored with the 2010 Green Manufacturing Award in the large company category by the Association of Washington Business during a special awards luncheon on September 24 in Blaine, Wash.

Frito-Lay installs solar photovoltaic system to help power factory in California

2010-09-24T07:13:33-05:00

PepsiCo's Frito-Lay North America Modesto, Calif., manufacturing facility is building on its environmental sustainability efforts by installing an innovative cylindrical solar photovoltaic (PV) system on its rooftop. The one-megawatt system is the largest Solyndra installation in the United States.

U.S. companies lagging in efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions

2010-09-23T13:21:30-05:00

While leading companies are forging ahead to cut emissions and seize business opportunities, United States companies still lag their global peers in the numbers and types of actions they are taking to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. However, some 70 percent of firms surveyed believe they can seize new commercial opportunities and improve relations with customers, employees and other stakeholders by addressing sustainability and climate change issues. These were a few of the findings in the 2010 Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) S&P Report, produced by PwC. The report also notes a well-defined group of American business leaders is emerging, including Cisco Systems, ConEd, News Corporation, Praxair and Spectra Energy.

Rockwell Automation named to Dow Jones Sustainability North America Index

2010-09-22T10:56:02-05:00

Rockwell Automation has been named to the Dow Jones Sustainability North America Index as one of the region’s best-performing, sustainable companies. The change to the index becomes effective with the opening of equity markets today.

A123 Systems opens largest lithium-ion auto battery plant in N.A.

2010-09-22T08:33:50-05:00

A123 Systems, a leading domestic manufacturer of advanced lithium-ion batteries and systems for electric drive-train vehicles, recently opened the largest lithium ion automotive battery facility in the United States.

The state-of-the-art plant in Livonia, Mich., will expand A123's manufacturing capabilities and contributes to the company's plan to expand global final cell assembly capacity to more than 760 megawatt-hours annually by the end of 2011.

As the future of the auto industry is focused on the electrification of vehicles, A123 Systems is poised to take a leadership role in providing the enabling technology to power the "transportation revolution."

Portland General Electric wins AMI/Smart Grid Excellence Award

2010-09-22T08:24:49-05:00

Utilimetrics, the world’s premier utility technology association, announced that Portland General Electric is the first recipient of the Utilimetrics AMI/Smart Grid Excellence Award.

Unilever named to Dow Jones Sustainability Index for 12th consecutive year

2010-09-21T13:46:42-05:00

Unilever has been named sustainability leader in the Food & Beverage “super-sector” of the Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI) for the 12th consecutive year.

Doyon Utilities chooses solution for privatization project

2010-09-20T09:29:12-05:00

An Alaska utility firm was faced with an aging infrastructure that needed to be upgraded quickly and had to be replicated from plant to plant. Its goal was to improve the facilities through repair, rehabilitation and replacement and, therefore, improve the quality and efficiency of the systems over time. After careful planning, it was determined that the solution involved a complete system that could be integrated easily as existing plants were retrofitted, was scalable, and provided accurate control and information management.

Can the world be powered mainly by solar, wind energy?

2010-09-20T09:25:44-05:00

Continuous research and development of alternative energy could soon lead to a new era in human history in which two renewable sources – solar and wind – will become Earth's dominant contributor of energy, a Nobel laureate said recently at a special symposium at the American Chemical Society's 240th National Meeting.

MeadWestvaco named to Dow Jones Sustainability World Index

2010-09-17T08:43:03-05:00

MeadWestvaco Corporation on September 17 announced it is listed on the 2010 Dow Jones Sustainability World Index (DJSI World) for the seventh consecutive year, and is ranked best in class in the Containers & Packaging sector for the sixth year. The DJSI World recognizes the world’s leading companies in the areas of economic, environmental and social performance, and evaluates organizations based on their commitment to and success in integrating sustainability into core business objectives and performance.