ENERGY TIDBITS – September 2010
By John Sarver of the Michigan DELEG
Time is Running Out for State Appliance Rebates! 72% of clothes washer, refrigerator, and dishwasher rebates have been spent or reserved. 90% of furnace and hot water systems rebates have been spent or reserved and additional applications will now be processed on a first come basis with no guarantee of receiving a rebate. Michigan Energy Efficient Appliance Rebate Program has already spurred over $47.5 million in consumer spending in Michigan and provided over $5.3 million in rebates to 75,000 Michigan consumers. The program is funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. More information at www.mirebates.com or call call 1-866-621-8782 (refrigerators, clothes washers, dishwashers) or www.michrebate.com or 1-888-642-4674 (furnaces, water heaters).
Vortex Hydro Energy, a spinout from the University of Michigan, has installed its first major “hydrokinetic” power generating device in the St. Clair River off Port Huron. Vortex has commercial rights to the research of Michael Bernitsas, a professor of naval architecture and marine engineering at UM. He’s been studying the technology, called VIVACE — for Vortex Induced Vibration Aquatic Clean Energy — since 2005.
Curtis A. Hertel, Sr. was recently appointed as DELEG Deputy Director for Energy Programs. Mr. Hertel brings a wealth of legislative and policy experience to DELEG from his previous nine terms in the Michigan House of Representatives, with the last three in major leadership positions, including Co-Speaker and Speaker. Most recently, he served as Executive Director of the Detroit/Wayne County Port Authority.
Wind Power additions in the U.S. set a new record in 2009, with 10 GW of new capacity installed, representing a $21 billion investment. Wind power accounted for 39% of all new electric generating capacity added in the U.S. in 2009. Wind turbine equipment manufactured domestically grew from 50% in 2008 to roughly 60% in 2009. Wind power now provides more than 10% of in-state electricity generation in 4 states: Iowa (20%), South Dakota (13%), North Dakota (12%), and Minnesota (11%). Source: 2009 Wind Technologies Market Report http://eetd.lbl.gov/ea/ems/re-pubs.html
GE has announced a $200 million open innovation challenge that seeks breakthrough ideas to create a smarter, cleaner, more efficient electric grid. Entries will be evaluated as candidates for both a potential future commercial relationship as well as a $100,000 innovation challenge award. The global challenge invites technologists, entrepreneurs and start-ups to share their best ideas via ecomagination.com.
Ford Motor, Detroit Edison, Xtreme Power and the State of Michigan are teaming up to build a 500 kW PV system and 10 electric vehicle charging stations at Ford’s Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne. The system will be integrated with a 750 kW energy storage facility that can store two million watt-hours. The Michigan Assembly project is made possible by a $3 million investment by Detroit Edison’s SolarCurrents program, a $2 million grant from the Michigan Public Service Commission in support of the state’s smart-grid initiative, and approximately $800,000 from Ford.
Eight New Coal-Fired Plants were proposed in Michigan 3 years ago. The State recently denied air quality permits for the last proposed coal-fired plant that requested one. The Department of Natural Resources and Environment said Holland’s Board of Public Works can’t build a new 78 MW plant to replace a smaller, older one because it’s not needed. In February 2009, Governor Granholm issued an executive order requiring applicants for new coal-fired plants to prove need and that there were no viable alternative sources. Since then, none of the proposed plants has moved forward, either because the State denied permits or the companies changed plans. The State approved permits in December for CMS Energy’s new coal-fired plant near Bay City, but CMS has put the $2 billion project on hold.
Altair Engineering research work in Troy on LED bus lights eventually led to the creation of LED replacements for fluorescent light tubes. Altair established a subsidiary called Ilumisys that is moving production of the replacement tubes from China to Michigan next year. Ilumisys’ new factory eventually will employ 213 workers.
http://www.freep.com/article/20100829/BUSINESS06/8290474/1019/Business06/State-becomes-center-for-lamp-industry-from-small-to-large-companies#ixzz0y5lpFCfW
Genoa Charter Township Hall has installed five wind turbines (1.2 kW each) for a total of 6 kW and a 3.5 kW PV system. The hybrid system is expected to provide approximately 20% of the Township Hall’s electrical needs. The Township received an EECBG grant from DELEG, Bureau of Energy Systems and the Township contributed $8,800 in personnel and contractual services. The Windspire® wind turbines were manufactured in Manistee & installed by Contractor’s Building Supply www.windowswindandsolar.com.
East Michigan Chapter of the Association of Energy Engineers will be meeting on September 14 in Room C406 of the Alfred Taubman Student Service Center at Lawrence Tech. Meeting is free to Chapter Members and $25 for guests. Meeting begins at 5 pm, with dinner at 6 pm followed by a presentation. See www.emaee.org for details.
Home Appliance Manufacturers and energy efficiency advocates have agreed on improved efficiency standards and tax policies for refrigerators, freezers, clothes washers, clothes dryers, dishwashers and room air conditioners. In addition, they have called for inclusion of “smart grid” readiness as a feature of future ENERGY STAR appliances. For example, new standards would reduce new refrigerator and freezer energy use by up to 30% by January 2014. www.aham.org/agreement .
Coldwater Board of Public Utilities (CBPU) trustees have recommended that Coldwater City Council enter into a contract to bring solar power to the city. Standard Energy has surveyed power plant sites in CBPU service area, selected several as potential locations for solar arrays, and indicated there is a potential for 8 MW in Coldwater. Standard Energy has agreed to develop solar power plants with American Municipal Power that will provide up to 300 MWs of electricity in six states. Coldwater is a member of AMP.
Green Building Commercial Training will be held October 5, 8-5 at IHM Motherhouse in Monroe. This program presents sustainable green building construction in a holistic way for builders, developers, contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, construction trades, design professionals, facilities management staff, code officials, municipal zoning and planning departments. This training program prepares trainees for the Green Advantage Certification Exam on October 12. Register at TRAINING
Detroit Thermal LLC, is tying together 7 downtown Detroit Wayne County buildings as part of the continuing growth of the underground steam energy system serving Detroit from the riverfront to the New Center area. Recently new service connections were completed to the Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan, part of the Detroit Medical Center.
Clean Energy Prize encourages economic development in Michigan by harnessing the innovation and creativity of our college students. The Clean Energy Prize awards $100,000 in prizes and in-kind services to student-based teams to draw emerging technologies to the state of Michigan. www.micleanenergyprize.com
Experimental Electric Vehicle Tariff for Detroit Edison has been approved by the MPSC making it the first utility in Michigan to offer specific rates for electric vehicles for residential customers. Most customers enrolled under this tariff will receive a separate meter that is capable of recording the time of day and the energy used to charge the electric vehicles. Eligible customers will be provided two options: one that provides a lower rate for charging during off-peak hours and another that provides for a monthly flat fee of $40 per vehicle. Detroit Edison will, at the customer’s option, fund up to $2,500 for the separately metered circuit including the approved charging station; or if the approved charging station is provided by the manufacturer, Detroit Edison will fund up to $2,500 for the separately metered circuit and the installation of the charging station.
Detroit Edison has 20-year contracts with WM Renewable Energy and L’Anse Warden Electric for 20 MW of renewable energy. Detroit Edison will purchase 17 MW from the L’Anse Warden wood waste biomass facility in Baraga County and 3 MW of landfill gas capacity from WM Renewable Energy in Lake Orion.
Certified Energy Manager (CEM) 5 day course and exam will be offered in Detroit on October 25– 29 at Westin Book Cadillac. https://www.aeeprograms.com/seminars/calendar.htm
Energy Tidbits is free and prepared by John Sarver, Michigan Dept. of Energy, Labor, & Economic Growth. To subscribe, contact sarverj@michigan.gov. Previous copies can be found at www.michigan.gov/energyoffice under Publications.
From the EERE News – August 26, 2010
At an event with homeowners and workers who benefited from the program, today in Manchester, New Hampshire, Vice President Joe Biden announced a major Recovery Act milestone—the weatherizing of 200,000 homes under the Recovery Act. As a result of the Administration’s unprecedented commitment to energy efficiency, more than 200,000 low-income families have been able to save money on their energy bills while saving energy, and thousands of people have been put to work.
“Thanks to the Recovery Act, thousands of construction workers across the country are now on the job making energy-saving home improvements that will save working families hundreds of dollars a year on their utility bills,” said Vice President Biden. “From replacing windows and doors to adding insulation, these are small changes that are making a big difference for American workers, manufacturer and consumers. We’ve hit the accelerator on the weatherization program, making over 200,000 homes more energy-efficient already, and are now full speed ahead to meet our original target of weatherizing 600,000 homes nationwide. ”
“The weatherization program under the Recovery Act—one of our signature programs—is successfully delivering energy and cost savings for hundreds of thousands of American families while creating thousands of clean energy jobs in local communities,” said U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu.
Vice President Biden today visited the Manchester, New Hampshire home of the Dumont family to announce the milestone. The Dumont family is expected to save over $600 a year on their utility bills once their weatherization project is completed and Southern New Hampshire Services, the local organization weatherizing their home, has already hired 7 new full-time employees and an estimated 68 subcontractors as a result of the Recovery Act weatherization funding.
http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/news/progress_alerts.cfm/pa_id=391
From EERE News.
August 19, 2010
U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu announced today award selections for approximately 120 organizations across the country that will receive nearly $120 million to drive innovation under the Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) Weatherization Assistance Program. These investments will enable successful weatherization agencies to expand their programs and will support new pilot projects to demonstrate innovative weatherization delivery and financial models and new technologies. Secretary Chu also announced that the program reached a new milestone in June—weatherizing more than 31,600 homes across the country.
“The weatherization program under the Recovery Act is successfully creating jobs in local communities, saving money for families, and reducing carbon pollution across the country,” said Secretary Chu. “The funding announced today builds on the Department’s existing investments in energy efficiency to continue to expand and drive innovations in the weatherization program that will provide even greater energy and cost savings to low-income families.”
After ramping up last year, the Weatherization Assistance Program is now weatherizing homes at its optimal run rate—approximately 25,000 homes per month. And in June, states reported that more than 31,600 homes were weatherized with Recovery Act funding—the most ever in a month. This summer alone, more than 80,000 homes will be weatherized across the country. See the state breakdown of the homes weatherized through June
.
http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/news/progress_alerts.cfm/pa_id=384
From an MPSC Press Release – August 10, 2010
The Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) today approved an experimental electric vehicle tariff (rate) for The Detroit Edison Company, making it the first utility in Michigan to offer specific rates for electric vehicles for residential customers.
“As manufacturers begin to sell plug-in electric vehicles, it is important that Michigan’s electric utilities be ready as well,” said MPSC Chairman Orjiakor Isiogu. “The program approved today will help Detroit Edison evaluate the effect of electric vehicles on its electric system, offers off-peak rates that customers can use to charge vehicles, and offers the infrastructure required to charge these vehicles.”
In its application, Detroit Edison proposed to make this experimental electric tariff available on an optional basis to a maximum of 2,500 residential customers seeking separately-metered service for the sole purpose of charging licensed electric vehicles.
Most customers enrolled for service under this tariff will receive a separate meter that is capable of recording the energy used to charge the electric vehicles and the time of day that the charging occurs. Eligible customers will be provided two rate options: one that provides a lower rate for charging during off-peak hours (hours other than between 9 a.m. and 11 p.m. Monday through Friday) and another that provides for a monthly flat fee of $40 per vehicle.
The utility’s experimental tariff will run through Dec. 31, 2012. Detroit Edison will, at the customer’s option, fund up to $2,500 for the separately metered circuit including the approved charging station; or if the approved charging station is provided by the manufacturer, Detroit Edison will fund up to $2,500 for the separately metered circuit and the installation of the charging station. Customers who opt for this equipment will be required to execute an agreement with the company that specifies terms and conditions regarding the use of such equipment.
The tariff is approved for service rendered on and after Aug. 11.
The MPSC is an agency within the Department of Energy, Labor & Economic Growth.
Case No. U-16406
From EERE News – August 04, 2010
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today released its “2009 Wind Technologies Market Report.” This report, authored primarily by DOE’s Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, provides a comprehensive overview of trends in the rapidly-evolving U.S. wind power market.
For the first time, this year’s Wind Technologies Market Report estimates the amount of wind turbine and component imports from other countries. The study finds that a growing percentage of wind turbine equipment is being sourced domestically, as both domestic and foreign companies seek to minimize transportation costs and currency risks by establishing local manufacturing capabilities. When presented as a fraction of total wind turbine equipment-related costs, the overall U.S. content is found to have increased from about 50% in 2008 to roughly 60% in 2009.
According to the report, 2009 was another record-breaking year for U.S. wind power additions. The 10 gigawatts of capacity additions represent a $21 billion investment in new wind power projects, and enough capacity to power the equivalent of 2.4 million homes. Wind projects accounted for 39% of all new U.S. electric generating capacity in 2009, and wind energy is now able to deliver 2.5% of the nation’s electricity supply.
This report analyzes trends in wind power capacity, industry, manufacturing, turbines, installed project costs, project performance, and how wind power prices compare to conventional generation. It also describes trends among wind power developers, project owners, and power purchasers, and discusses financing issues.
Other key findings of the report include the following:
http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/news/progress_alerts.cfm/pa_id=376
Prepared by John Sarver of the Michigan DELEG.
Natural gas furnaces and hot water heaters have been added to the State of Michigan appliance rebate program effective August 1. Purchases prior to that date will not be eligible. The rebate for a 95% AFUE natural gas furnace will be $500. The rebate for a 95% AFUE natural gas furnace with an ECM (electronically commutated motor) will be $650. The rebates for natural gas hot water heaters (storage EF>=.67; tankless EF>=.82) will be $300. State rebates are available until the dollars run out. Federal tax credits end December 31. This is a good time to upgrade your natural gas, propane, or oil furnace. Go to www.michrebate.com or 1-888-642-4674.
Small Wind Turbine sales grew 15% last year according to the American Wind Energy Assoc. and the industry passed a milestone of 100 MW of installed small wind power. Over half the total sales were made in the past 3 years despite a freefall in the housing market and the economic crisis.
Michigan Public Service Commission has unveiled its new and improved energy efficiency website
(http://michigan.gov/mpsc/0,1607,7-159-52495—,00.html), one that makes it easy to find information on utility-run energy efficiency programs; Michigan Saves program; and tips on how to reduce energy consumption at home.
Michigan Saves is now enrolling energy auditors and installation contractors for the Michigan Saves Home Energy Loan Program. Contractor enrollment is open now (www.michigansaves.org/contractors.html). After an application is approved, contractors must attend a half-day training session, available August – November that will be held in five locations. The Michigan Saves Home Energy Loan Program is available in 36 counties. Contact Todd Parker at (517) 484-6474 or registration@michigansaves.org.
Chevrolet has announced that the Volt will sell for $41,000 and also be available for lease at $350 a month. Buyers are eligible for a federal tax credit that will cut the price by $7,500. Chevy Volt Vehicle Line Director Tony Posawatz expects the demand will exceed the Volt supply.
Dow Building & Construction has been selected by DOE to lead a multi-year project that will combine research and residential in-home testing to develop enhanced home energy efficiency retrofits. Dow will work in partnership with Habitat for Humanity, Michigan State, Ferris State, Duke Energy, DTE, and Exelon. The team will conduct pre- and post-retrofit homeowner market research, designed by MSU, to build a stronger understanding of consumer considerations and concerns. Innovative new systems devised by Dow and Ferris State’s Granger Center for Construction and HVACR will focus on wall and roofing insulations as well as air sealing. The team will also draw upon Habitat for Humanity’s knowledge of lower-income homeowner issues and Dow’s practical marketplace know-how.
http://wwj.cbslocal.com/2010/07/29/dow-msu-feris-state-named-to-energy-rd-team/
Michigan Strategic Fund board has approved a $3.5 million grant to URV USA to manufacture wind turbine hub and bedplate castings at a plant to be located in Eaton Rapids. The company’s new casting technology reduces from five days to five hours the time it takes to produce a casting. URV officials said they have already sold out of their initial capacity and will need to expand their operations. With this award, the Center Of Energy Excellence has reached its maximum $10 million funding limit for the current year. Nine million has been requested for FY 2011.
Oakland University’s School of Business Administration and School of Engineering & Computer Science are partnering to deliver a professional certificate program in energy management that will prepare engineering and business professionals to differentiate themselves in their careers and help their organizations become sustainable. The cost of the six-week program is $1,500. Classes will take place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays beginning on Sept. 10. www.oakland.edu/energymgmt.
40% of World’s Capacity to Produce Lithium-Ion Batteries for automobiles will be in Michigan by 2015. President Obama recently attended the groundbreaking in Holland for the LG Chem-Compact Power plant. In June, Vice President Biden attended a groundbreaking at Dow Kokam in Midland for a new battery factory. In all, $2.4 billion in federal grants have gone for advanced battery manufacturing factories in Michigan.
Detroit Edison & Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan have signed a 20-year agreement for a 200 kW, $1 million PV system that will be installed on the roof of a BCBSM four-story parking structure in downtown Detroit. The solar array will cover 31,000 sq. ft. of the 42,000 sq. ft. roof and should be operational next spring. The installation is part of the SolarCurrents program that calls for 15 MW of PV systems to be installed on customer rooftops or property over the next 5 years. Detroit Edison plans to invest more than $100 million in the program. The PV systems will be owned, installed, operated and maintained by the utility. BCBSM and other customers that participate will get an annual credit on their energy bill, as well as a one-time, upfront payment. Detroit Edison also continues to offer PV incentives to their residential customers. www.dteenergy.com/solar.
Learn Fundamentals of PV System design and installation on Aug. 23-27. A one-week intensive Solar PV Training Workshop (cost $775) will be held at Northwestern Michigan College. The content follows NABCEP’s learning objectives for the entry-level exam. The optional NABCEP Certificate of Knowledge Exam is offered on Aug. 28 for $105. Call (231) 995-1700 or (800) 748-0566 ext. 1700, or visit www.nmc.edu/energy
Colleges are Using Green as a Selling Tool. In 2010, the Sustainable Endowments Institute found that 69% of colleges and universities were incorporating a sustainability message during the admissions and student orientation processes. My alma mater, American University in D.C., takes students through the school’s arboretum and green-certified buildings.
Enbridge and First Solar will expand the Sarnia Solar Project from 20 MW to 80 MW with a total system cost of approximately CAN $300 million. When completed in the second half of 2010, it is expected to be the largest PV facility in North America. The first 20 MW began full commercial operation in December 2009.
Nine Stores in Manhattan and the Bronx have been hit with $200 fines for leaving their doors open on hot days in the hope that the escaping cool air will lure sweaty customers. They are the first fined as part of a new law passed in 2008. Last year, only warnings were given out. This year, the city’s Department of Consumer Affairs has inspected 105 stores. Seventy were in compliance, 26 were issued warnings and nine that had been warned last year were hit with fines.
Sacramento Municipal Utility District has awarded contracts to Recurrent Energy to install 60 MW of solar panels in Sacramento County. Rather than construct a central solar power station, Recurrent will locate a dozen 5 MW installations near an existing substation, which means that the solar arrays can be plugged directly into the grid without requiring any expensive transmission upgrades.
Renewable Energy for New & Historic Buildings will be held on August 4, 3-6. Join Detroit Geothermal, LLC for a site visit of two historic, sustainable building renovations in Midtown Detroit’s Sugar Hill Arts District; Newberry Hall Apartments and 71 Garfield Apartments. The afternoon will feature tours, demonstrations and a workshop that will serve as a case study of how geothermal and solar technology work to provide renewable energy for rehabilitated and newly constructed buildings. http://events.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07e2z6ey5i84ebc85b&oseq=
Energy Tidbits is free and prepared by John Sarver, Michigan Dept. of Energy, Labor, & Economic Growth. To subscribe, contact sarverj@michigan.gov. Previous copies can be found at www.michigan.gov/energyoffice under Publications.
From EERE News.
The U.S. Department of Energy today announced 15 research and deployment partnerships to help dramatically improve the energy efficiency of American homes. These highly-qualified, multidisciplinary teams will receive a total of up to $30 million for the initial eighteen months of the projects to deliver innovative energy efficiency strategies to the residential market and address barriers to bringing high-efficiency homes within reach for all Americans. A total of up to $20 million per year will also be made available for the partnerships for three potential one-year extensions. These research and deployment partnerships will provide technical assistance to retrofit projects and will leverage industry expertise and funding to support DOE’s energy efficiency retrofit programs. This effort will support the Department’s Retrofit Ramp-Up initiative, announced by Vice President Joe Biden in April, which brings communities, governments, private sector companies and non-profit organizations together to deliver energy-efficiency upgrades—or retrofits—to whole neighborhoods and cities.
“Home energy efficiency is one of the easiest, most immediate and most cost-effective ways to reduce carbon pollution and save money on energy bills, while creating new jobs,” said Secretary of Energy Steven Chu. “By developing and using tools to reduce residential energy use, we will spur economic growth here in America and help homeowners make cost-cutting improvements in their homes.”
The partnerships announced today will provide additional support to ongoing retrofit initiatives that are making cost-effective energy efficiency retrofits easily accessible to hundreds of thousands of American homes and businesses. These partnerships will research and deploy new technologies and demonstration projects, and provide systems engineering, quality assurance, and outreach for retrofit projects throughout the country.
Existing techniques and technologies in energy efficiency retrofitting—such as air-tight ducts, windows and doors, heating and cooling systems, insulation and caulking—can reduce energy use by up to 40% per home and cut energy bills by $40 billion annually.
The following selections were made though the DOE Building Technologies Program, which forges research partnerships across the residential building industry to develop cost-effective solutions that dramatically reduce the average energy use of housing while improving comfort and quality. To find out more, visit the Buildings Technology Program Web site.
To further support the broad deployment of energy efficiency building retrofits, DOE is hosting the Residential Building Energy Efficiency Meeting 2010 in Denver, Colorado from July 20-22, to present cutting-edge research results, identify key stakeholder and market transformation needs, and facilitate collaboration opportunities between conference participants. This conference is targeted to researchers, architects, contractors, manufacturers, builders, utilities, legislators, lenders, realtors, auditors, raters, installation technicians, HOA representatives, and anyone else interested in creating substantial connections with the field.
The following is a brief description of the selected teams, which will each receive between $500,000 and $2.5 million depending on their performance:
http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/news/progress_alerts.cfm/pa_id=370
July 15, 2010 – From EERE News
The Department of Energy (DOE) today announced the launch of a technical assistance program that will support projects funded under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act through DOE’s State Energy Program (SEP) and Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant Program (EECBG). Funded with up to $25 million under the Recovery Act, the program will provide states, cities, and tribes with the tools and resources they need to implement successful and sustainable renewable energy projects, such as wind farms and solar systems, and deploy cost-effective, clean, and reliable energy-saving technologies in buildings and infrastructure nationwide. The Technical Assistance Program (TAP)—which is jointly-funded with EECBG and SEP Recovery Act funds—will accelerate project execution, improve program performance, and increase the return on Recovery Act investments. This effort is another way that the Department is creating green jobs, making homes and businesses more energy efficient, and installing renewable energy systems across America.
http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/news/progress_alerts.cfm/pa_id=367
The following article was posted by Cathy Zoi on the White House Blog.
Picture a neighborhood block somewhere in your town. It might have single-story homes for 10 families—complete with front porches, sidewalks, and green lawns. Or instead that block might have a single apartment building that houses 50 families over five floors. What we know is that each of the families—whether they’re living in a detached house or a mid-rise apartment—pays away some of their hard-earned dollars to pay for energy. And for many low-income Americans, these energy bills absorb a significant amount of the family income.
Now imagine that teams of trained experts come down that block and install measures to help those families save energy. Insulation, caulking, weatherstripping, windows, better furnaces, or water heaters. So families’ energy bills go down and their comfort goes up. We call this “weatherization”—and it’s happening in more than 82,000 homes as part of the Recovery Summer.
So picture that—what does 82,000 homes look like? That’s a lot of houses. And how do the 82,000 families with lower energy bills and improved comfort feel? I’ll bet given these challenging economic times they’re resting a bit more easily. This could not be achieved without the determined and committed hard work of more than 900 community action agencies and state weatherization agencies nationwide. Twelve states have now weatherized more than 30% of the homes they planned to complete under the Recovery Act, marking a major milestone in this effort to make American households more energy efficient. This video expresses my personal gratitude for the hard work that has made our remarkable progress to weatherize America possible.
http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/news/progress_alerts.cfm/pa_id=365
By John Sarver of the Michigan DELEG.
Michigan Appliance Rebate program still has incentives available, but dollars are limited. To date, 49% of the program funds for refrigerators, clothes washers, and dishwashers have been spent, with approximately 50,000 rebates being issued to Michigan residents. The furnaces and water heaters program has spent approximately 5%, with approximately 150 rebates being issued to Michigan residents. DOE has recently approved a rebate increase for this portion of the program. Rebate levels have increased for the following products: 1) Propane Furnaces—increase to $500, 2) Propane Water Heaters—increase to $300, 3) Oil Furnaces—increase to $500, and 4) Solar Water Heaters—increase to 25%, maximum of $2,500. Residents who already received a rebate will get an additional amount to raise them to the new levels. www.mirebates.com & www.michrebate.com
Governor Granholm has announced that the state of Michigan has achieved a 22% reduction in energy use at state facilities throughout Michigan during the last fiscal year compared to fiscal year 2002. If this reduction had not been achieved, the state would have paid an additional $30 million last year. Since the Governor took office, the state has achieved a total utility cost avoidance of $89.9 million. Energy Use Reduction Coordinators representing each agency meet regularly to exchange ideas, gather information, and provide updates on their progress.
Clean Energy Advanced Manufacturing grants and loans will go to 9 small Michigan manufacturers. Governor Granholm announced that the manufacturers will share $20 million funded by the federal Recovery Act. One of the companies is Great Lakes Industry in Jackson which will convert its existing gear manufacturing operations to meet the growing demand for precision gear boxes needed in large wind turbines. Another company is Ventower Industries, which recently broke ground for its new facility in Monroe. Ventower will build the structural steel towers that are used to support commercial-sized wind turbines. A third company, URV USA in Rochester will establish a foundry to produce high-quality castings for the wind industry. http://www.michigan.gov/gov/
DTE Energy has introduced a new 100 home, 6 month program to promote whole home energy savings for residential combo customers in Southeast Michigan with both MichCon gas and Detroit Edison electricity. To deliver the Whole Home Performance Program, DTE Energy has teamed up with WellHome (a Masco company), and Michigan SAVES to promote, incentivize, and deliver comprehensive home energy retrofits. The program, which started on June 1 offers rebates of up to $3,500 for whole-home energy retrofits achieving 20% in savings, and low interest unsecured financing through Michigan SAVES. For more information, go to Whole Home Performance Program link at www.yourenergysavings.com.
Uni-Solar has unveiled a “Technology Roadmap” to 12% conversion efficiency by 2012 with a cost per watt of less than $1. The company is targeting 20% plus for conversion efficiency. The road map includes enhancing the laminate which will improve conversion efficiencies to 8.2% by close of 2010, high rate deposition which targets 10% by end of 2011, and use of nanotech to result in 12% by end of 2012.
Michigan Uniform Energy Code Public Hearing will be held on July 20, 9:00 AM in the MSP Auditorium, Michigan State Police Training Academy, 7426 N. Canal Rd., Dimondale. The MUEC rules are proposed to be effective 120 days after filing with the Secretary of State. The proposed energy residential rules will adopt the 2009 International Energy Conservation Code with Michigan amendments. The proposed energy commercial rules will adopt the ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2007. Oral or written comments may be presented in person at the hearing or must be received in writing no later than 5:00 PM on July 20. http://www.michigan.gov/dleg/0,1607,7-154-10575—,00.html
Michigan Energy Appraisal: Summer 2010 from the MPSC indicates that Michigan’s total electric sales are projected to increase by 2.1% in 2010, following a 6.7% decrease in 2009. Impacted by the recession, sales in 2009 were the lowest seen since 1997 with declines in all sectors: residential, commercial, and industrial. Part of last year’s decline can be attributed to the cooler than normal summer, which saw cooling degree days 35% below normal. Even with the projected moderate increase in 2010, sales will only approach a return to their 1998 levels. http://www.dleg.state.mi.us/mpsc/reports/energy/10summer/index.htm
Southeast Michigan Resource Conservation & Development Council is offering a $62,600 grant to one institution to fund the retrofit or replacement of an existing boiler to accommodate wood fuel. Boiler systems in the range of 500,000 to 4 million BTU/hour are targeted. A matching requirement of at least 1:1.5 (or $93,900) is required. Funding preference will be given to facilities with high public demonstration potential within the Southeast Michigan RC&D Council area (Lenawee, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, St. Clair, Washtenaw, and Wayne Counties). All project proposals must be submitted by July 26. http://semircd.org/ash/news/woodenergyRFP0610.pdf
Harlan Byker and his company, Pleotint LLC, have worked for 12 years to develop a window film that reacts to sunlight. Sandwiched between two panes of glass, the film darkens on hot, sunny days, keeping out heat, and goes transparent on cloudy days to let in available sunlight to heat the interior. Sunlight Responsive Thermochromic film got a boost this week with a $402,457 federal grant that will be used for independent research to determine the effectiveness of the film on sunlight control. A year-long test of the window film product is planned at the Iowa Energy Center. A 2006 study by GMB Architecture + Engineering, of Holland, found that the product can provide between 17-30% in energy cost savings.
University of Michigan Team has won the American Solar Challenge for a third consecutive North American title. The week-long, biennial 1,100-mile competition for solar-powered vehicles started in Broken Arrow, Okla., on June 20 and ended in Naperville, Ill., on June 26. The UM car was the first of 13 to cross the finish line for a final time of 28 hours, 14 minutes and 44 seconds. This is the sixth North American title for UM, which won the inaugural event in 1990 with its first car, the Sunrunner. Infinium is believed to be the university’s fastest solar car ever. It reached 100 mph in testing. http://solarcar.engin.umich.edu/
Dow Corning has been awarded $1.2 million from DOE to develop an insulating facade system for commercial buildings. The funding will assist Dow Corning in the development of a silicon-based high-efficiency building insulation system which could be used in retro-fit and new construction applications. The insulation project is focused on achieving R-40 or greater for exterior insulation and finish systems.
1.26 kW PV roof-integrated system has been installed on my house. I needed a new roof and Consumers Energy $.65/kWh Experimental Advanced Renewable Program (EARP) incentive certainly helped. Unfortunately that “feed-in-tariff” program is completely full right now. PV Watts software program estimates I should get 1440 kWh’s per year or about 20% of my electric needs. So far, I’m averaging 4.8 kWh’s per day. If you want to see the type of PV system, go to www.lumaresources.com.
GreenRoad attempts to change drivers’ fuel-wasting ways by giving them constant feedback – a little black box — and by sending them weekly emails that analyze their driving and offer tips. The box has three lights and when the car’s driver makes a fuel-wasting or dangerous move, such as making fast, sharp turns or weaving through traffic — the LEDs go from green to yellow to red. The GreenRoad system has been installed in more than 80 corporate fleets since 2008. Some clients have seen accident rates halved and fuel savings of 5 to 10%.
Underwater Power Generation Concept is the top winner of Motivate Michigan, a corporate-sponsored collegiate competition to generate ideas to improve Michigan’s economy. UM students Tarun Koshy and Nicholas Williams presented “Thunder From Down Under,” a proposal to install underwater turbines in all the major lakes and rivers of Michigan. They also presented the technology of a UM spin-off called Vivace Power that uses a property of moving water called vortex induced vibration to make tubes move up and down in a frame, generating power. The first place proposal won $20,000 in scholarship money. More than 300 ideas were received from virtually every university in the state. www.motivatemichigan.org
Pulte Homes, the nation’s largest home builder, is expanding its offering of solar power in its new home communities. Bloomfield Hills-based Pulte Group says its renewable energy strategy is unique, in that its solar offerings span the home builder’s diverse brand portfolio: from first-time buyers to move-up buyers to those in 55+ active adult communities.
University of Michigan has adopted LEED Silver certification as its standard for major new construction projects. The new policy builds upon an existing UM commitment to exceed by 30% ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2007, giving the university one of the most rigorous collegiate construction standards in the nation. UM buildings that have already achieved LEED certification include the Gold LEED Dana Building, home of the School of Natural Resources and Environment, and the Silver LEED Stephen M. Ross School of Business.
GenShocks, can use the kinetic energy of bounces to generate watts, putting the electricity to use running a vehicle’s windshield wipers, fans or dashboard lights. The company making the devices indicate they can lower fuel consumption by 1-6% depending on the vehicle and road conditions. GenShocks are projected to be on the market in the second quarter of 2011. http://www.levantpower.com/.
DTE Music Theatre lawn seats won’t be the only thing that’s green this summer during the 2010 concert series. DTE Energy will pair up with its Green Currents program to provide the amphitheater with 100% renewable energy throughout the concert series. This is the third year that the Palace Sports & Entertainment will use 100% “green” energy.
East Michigan Chapter of AEE has been successful in getting the AEE to bring the CEM 5 day course to Michigan this fall. The CEM course and exam will be held at Westin Book Cadillac in Detroit on October 25–29. Space is limited, please sign up immediately! https://www.aeeprograms.com/seminars/calendar.htm
Energy Tidbits is free and is prepared by John Sarver, Michigan Dept. of Energy, Labor, & Economic Growth. To subscribe, contact sarverj@michigan.gov. Previous copies can be found at www.michigan.gov/energyoffice under Publications.
