Renewable Energy Installations in WI

Thursday, December 31, 2009

A safe investment in 2010: Hot water

Though written in 2007, an analysis by RENEW's executive director Michael Vickerman may be even truer today an a few years ago, given the risk involved in "traditional" investments. The analysis shows that an investmnet in a solar hot water system generates a better rate of return than putting money in the bank:

I wrote a column which was highly critical of using payback analysis to figure out whether installing a solar hot water system on one’s house makes economic sense. In almost every example you can imagine, the payback period for today’s solar installations ranges between long and forever. For my system, which started operating in January 2006, payback will be achieved in a mere 19 years using today’s energy prices, though by the time 2025 rolls around, half of Florida might be under water and the rest of the country out of natural gas.

But there’s no reason to let payback length rule one’s ability to invest in sustainable energy for the home or business, especially if there are other approaches to valuing important economic decisions. One way to sidestep the gloomy verdicts of payback analysis is to do what most companies do when contemplating a long-term investment like solar energy -- calculate the internal rate of return (IRR) on the invested capital. The definition of IRR is the annualized effective compounded return rate which can be earned on the invested capital, i.e. the yield on the investment.

By using this familiar capital budgeting method, I’m able to calculate an IRR of 6.1%for my solar water heater if natural gas prices rise a measly 3% per annum. That yield exceeds anything that a bank will offer you today. It will likely outperform the stock market this year, which is due for a substantial downward adjustment to reflect the slow-motion implosion of the housing market now underway. And, unless you live in a gold-rush community like Fort McMurray, Alberta, your house will do well just to hold onto its current valuation, let alone appreciate by six percent.

While all investments pose some degree of risk, the return on a solar energy system is about as safe and predictable as, well, the rising sun. Fortunately for the Earth and its varied inhabitants, the center of our solar system is situated well beyond the reach of humanity’s capacity to tamper with a good thing.

Wednesday, December 30, 2009

Keep working toward energy independence

From an editorial in the Sheboygan Press:

Gov. Jim Doyle's 2006 campaign promise of having four University of Wisconsin campuses completely "off the grid" by 2012 and get their energy needs from renewable sources was an ambitious one.

Unfortunately, it has turned out to be an impossible task.

Doyle said that campuses at Oshkosh, River Falls, Green Bay and Stevens Point were to work toward energy independence as a way to show that it can be done. Doyle has pushed hard for Wisconsin to research and implement alternative energy sources, especially renewable sources — wind, solar and biomass. The goal is to reduce the reliance on fossil fuels, especially oil bought from foreign countries.

The four schools were to start producing their own electricity or buy it from utilities using the renewable sources of energy, Doyle said in 2006. The challenge also would spark energy conservation on the four campuses.

But with just two years to go, the promise far outshines the reality.

Still, there has been significant progress.

UW-Green Bay, which specializes in environmental education, has reduced its energy use by 26 percent since 2005.

UW-River Falls is studying the use of wind turbines on the campus farm to generate electricity. . . .

If the governor deserves any criticism for his promise, it is that he set an unrealistic timetable and did not ensure that there was adequate funding.

But Wisconsin must continue to do the research and find the technology that will not only reduce reliance on fossil fuels, but also ensure that energy in the future will be less costly.

Tuesday, December 29, 2009

Warming to climate action: Xcel web site promotes green power initiatives, cap-and-trade support

From an article by Bob Geiger, staff writer for Finance & Commerce:

Last week, there was a minor change to the web site of Xcel Energy – an unobtrusive box picturing a wind turbine along with the words, "Learn more about Xcel Energy’s climate action."

But the minor graphic signals a major effort at the Minneapolis-based utility – to promote its renewable energy efforts, as well as its support for a proposed federal policy aimed at limiting greenhouse gases.

The site lays out Xcel Energy’s game plan for dealing with climate change, and includes an endorsement of a uniform federal policy for a cap-and-trade system that is intended to reduce emissions of carbon dioxide.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has started the process to cap carbon dioxide emissions as a pollutant under the Clean Air Act, established more than 30 years ago to deal with local and regional pollution.

In posting its support of a cap and trade system that charges polluters for emissions of greenhouse gases, Xcel Energy is taking the corporate position that such a system encourages technological change to lower such emissions.

In the meantime, Xcel itself is "looking to reduce our carbon dioxide emissions in Minnesota by 22 percent from 2005 levels" by 2020, said Betsy Engelking, director of resource planning for the utility.

Monday, December 28, 2009

Switch!

One of serveral posters from WWF. Click on picture to enlarge.

Thursday, December 24, 2009

'Energy squads’ find and stop waste

From an article by Kristin Tillotson in the Minneapolis Star Tribune:

As the biggest storm of the season so far descends on the Twin Cities, some lucky homeowners are getting expert help battening down the hatches and lowering their utility bills. The bonus? It's costing them peanuts.

The Center for Energy and the Environment (CEE) in Minneapolis and Neighborhood Energy Connection (NEC) in St. Paul, both nonprofits dedicated to energy efficiency, began pilot programs in the fall in select neighborhoods. Their crews replace light bulbs, wrap fiberglass blankets around water heaters and weatherstrip doors. All the homeowners receiving these customized services had to do was attend a free workshop, then pay $30. Besides the installed products, they get utility-bill savings averaging $127 a year.

Xcel Energy Inc. and CenterPoint Energy pay both programs' labor costs as part of their efforts to meet state-mandated conservation goals. But in January the two utilities will begin offering Home Energy Squad, their own joint program, to other customers in the seven-county metro area. It will be a limited version of the neighborhood-focused visits offered by NEC and CEE, and will expand over the next three years. You must be a customer of Xcel electric and either Xcel gas or CenterPoint gas to be eligible. This is the first time the utilities have collaborated on such a broad scale, said Todd Berreman, who oversees CenterPoint's conservation programs.

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

Think Tank Flunks Renewable Energy Analysis

From a news release issued by RENEW Wisconsin:

An Examination of Wisconsin Policy Research Institute’s Bogus Methodology

Madison, WI (December 22, 2009) In response to a recent report from the Wisconsin Public Research Institute (WPRI) concluding that policies to increase renewable energy production would be prohibitively expensive, RENEW Wisconsin, a leading sustainable energy advocacy organization, today issued a critique documenting the faulty assumptions and methodological errors that undermine the credibility of that finding.

WPRI’s report, titled “The Economics of Climate Change Proposals in Wisconsin,” reviewed the proposal in the Governor’s Global Warming Task Force to increase the state’s renewable energy requirements on electric utilities to 25% by 2025, and estimated a total cost in excess $16 billion. RENEW’s analysis uncovered a disturbing pattern of “methodological sleight-of-hand, assumptions from outer space, and selective ignoring of facts” that render WPRI’s cost estimate to be completely unreliable.

“It appears that WPRI’s $16 billion number was pulled out of thin air, and that its analysis is nothing more than a tortured effort at reverse-engineering the numbers to fit the preordained conclusion,” said Michael Vickerman, RENEW Wisconsin executive director.

Specifically, RENEW identified four significant errors in WPRI’s analytical approach. The critique says:

+ It relies on a grossly inflated electricity sales forecast that is completely detached from current realities.
+ The final cost estimate includes all the generation built to comply with the current renewable energy standard, a clear-cut case of double-counting.
+ The authors fail to account for existing renewable generation capacity that is not currently being applied to a state renewable energy standard.
+ There is a high likelihood that the savings from the renewable energy standard are undervalued, because the authors fail to model plant retirements in their analysis.

Monday, December 21, 2009

Governor backs off energy goal for 4 UW campuses

From an article by Ryan J. Foley in the Wisconsin State Journal:

Gov. Jim Doyle has backed off a campaign promise that four University of Wisconsin campuses will be energy independent by 2012 after determining it was not practical as proposed.

Weeks before he was re-elected in 2006, Doyle said campuses would "go off the grid" by becoming the first state agencies to purchase or produce as much energy from renewable sources as they consume. He said they would achieve that by replacing fossil fuels with cleaner energy sources like solar, wind and biomass.

The goal has since been changed to require the campuses to sharply reduce their carbon dioxide emissions, instead of ending them altogether or going off the grid entirely, by 2012. The change came into public view this month during a Board of Regents meeting.

Some university officials say the original plan never made much sense because "going off the grid" would have required them to start producing their own electricity instead of buying it from utilities, which was not feasible or cost-effective.

At the same time, they credit the challenge with spurring them to conserve energy, study alternative fuels, and purchase more renewable sources from the utilities that provide their electricity.

Doyle told reporters Wednesday his original vision may have been unrealistic because of the challenges associated with producing energy on campuses, but the program would still motivate students and university employees to reduce pollution.

Friday, December 18, 2009

Join lobby effort at Conservation Lobby Day, January 26

Each year citizens from across Wisconsin descend on the Capitol to share their conservation values with their Legislators. Since the first Conservation Lobby Day in 2005, it has grown from just 100 citizens to more than 600! As we head into the 6th annual Conservation Lobby Day, there is one thing we can guarantee-when citizens come together to make their conservation values known, legislators listen, and conservation victories soon follow!

The reauthorization of the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Fund and the passage of the Strong Great Lakes Compact are two great examples of how citizen lobbying resulted in ground-breaking conservation laws.

Conservation Lobby Day is a unique opportunity to share your conservation stories and experiences with legislators and have a huge impact on conservation policies affecting all of Wisconsin.

This Conservation Lobby Day, you can help to:

* Preserve Groundwater: Wisconsin's Buried Treasure: manage Wisconsin's groundwater resources to preserve lakes, streams, wetlands and drinking water supplies.
* Stop Global Warming in Wisconsin: address the threats of global warming in Wisconsin through clean, renewable energy jobs and energy conservation.
* Restore Conservation Integrity: return Wisconsin to an Independent DNR Secretary and a timely appointment of Natural Resource Board members.
* Protect Wisconsin's Drinking Water: protect Wisconsin's drinking water supplies by making sure we safely spread agricultural, municipal, and industrial waste.

For a 1-page brief on each of these issues and more information about Conservation Lobby Day 2010, go to: http://www.conservationvoters.org/Public/index.php?custID=110

Registration starts at 9:00am on the day of the event, but you MUST REGISTER BEFORE JANUARY 19th by visiting http://www.conservationvoters.org/Public/index.php?custID=110 and signing up. There you can learn more about the issues in order to better prepare you for the day's events.

Thursday, December 17, 2009

Doyle calls for 15-year phase-in on carbon emission limits

From an article by Lee Bergquist and Tom Content in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel:

Madison — Gov. Jim Doyle said that the United States should move forward with federal cap-and-trade legislation if international climate negotiators meeting in Denmark are unable to reach agreement on it.

In a teleconference from Copenhagen where he is attending the world climate talks, Doyle said that coal-dependent states such as Wisconsin would need a phase-in period to meet limits on carbon emissions such as those included in a bill passed by the U.S. House of Representatives in June.

Doyle suggested a period of about 15 years in which states such as Wisconsin would cut emissions below targeted levels without penalty. Doyle said Wisconsin has identified about 15 companies that emit 25,000 metric tons or more yearly of greenhouse gases that would be affected.

The House bill calls for a reduction of carbon emissions of 17% by 2020 from 2005 levels. By 2050, emissions must be reduced by 80% or more.

A report by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in October concluded that Midwestern utilities, which rely more on coal as a source of power than utilities on the East and West coasts, would be penalized more than other states. The Midwest utilities are lobbying for changes in the global warming bill pending in the U.S. Senate. The report was prepared after the Midwest utilities, including Alliant Energy Corp. of Madison and Wisconsin Energy Corp. of Milwaukee, raised concerns about the House proposal, saying the way credits for utilities would be divvied up would penalize the Midwest.

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Litany of errors mars analysis of bill to enact recommendations of global warming task force

From a news release issued by the coalition for Clean, Responsible Energy for Wisconsin’s Economy (CREWE):

(MADISON, Wis.)—The coalition for Clean, Responsible Energy for Wisconsin’s Economy (CREWE) on Tuesday released a fact sheet detailing the errors with the Wisconsin Policy Research Institute’s (WPRI) November 12th report on the adverse economic effects of the Governor’s Task Force on Global Warming recommendations.

“The WPRI report is so wildly flawed that it has no place in any legislative debate on the task force recommendations,” said Thad Nation, executive director of CREWE. “Not only does the report analyze many policies that aren’t even included in the Clean Energy Jobs Act, but it takes a piecemeal approach, failing to analyze the cumulative effect the policies will have on our state.”

Among the errors included in the report, titled “The Economics of Climate Change Proposals in Wisconsin”:
• 8 of the 13 policies analyzed aren’t included in the Clean Energy Jobs Act
• Models policies that would impact the state’s general fund, despite the fact that the Clean Energy Jobs Act includes no tax increases
• Ignores the fact that low carbon fuels will be produced in Wisconsin and other
Midwestern states, while conventional gasoline is largely imported from overseas
• Fails to take into account decreased electricity demand due to energy efficiency and conservation investments outlined in the recommendations.

In addition, the authors of the report used a “black box” economic model to come to their conclusions – meaning the reader is only given the inputs and outputs, without any knowledge of how the statistical analysis was done. In order to allow others to properly analyze the report’s conclusions, the model that was used should be made publicly available for review.

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Report: Wind Turbines Cause No Human Harm

From a news release issued by RENEW Wisconsin:

IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 15, 2009

MORE INFORMATION
Michael Vickerman
RENEW Wisconsin
608.255.4044
mvickerman@renewwisconsin.org

Report: Wind Turbines Cause No Human Harm

Consistent with 10-plus years of commercial wind generation operations in Wisconsin, a national report issued today concluded that the sounds produced by wind turbines are not harmful to human health, according to the state’s leading renewable energy advocacy group.

Comprised of medical doctors, audiologists, and acoustical professionals from the United States, Canada, Denmark, and the United Kingdom, the panel of reviewers undertook extensive analysis and discussion of the large body of peer-reviewed literature, specifically with regard to sound coming from wind turbines.

The panel was established by the American Wind Energy Association and the Canadian Wind Energy Association (CanWEA).

“This report corroborates testimony that RENEW presented in the ongoing Glacier Hills Wind Park hearings at the Wisconsin Public Service Commission,” according to Michael Vickerman, executive director of RENEW Wisconsin. In that proceeding, We Energies is seeking approval to construct a 90-turbine 162 megawatt wind park in northeast Columbia County.

Monday, December 14, 2009

Crank up clean energy

From an editorial in the Wisconsin State Journal:

It might be hard to muster concern over global warming after shoveling a foot of snow in freezing temperatures last week across Wisconsin.

But the risk of man-made climate change is real and demands action - even if some scientists have overstated the evidence.

The bottom line is this: Burning less petroleum and coal that produces heat-trapping greenhouse gasses makes sense regardless of climate change fears.

A smart and determined transition to cleaner energy will be good for national security, public health and - if done carefully - Wisconsin's economy.

World leaders are gathering in Copenhagen, Denmark, this week for the United Nation's climate change conference. Wisconsin Gov. Jim Doyle is there with a delegation of governors and Canadian premiers.

A lot of the discussion will center on targets for reducing carbon emissions from smoke stacks and vehicles - and what to do if goals aren't met.

America and China spew more fossil-fuel pollution into the atmosphere than anyone, meaning we have more responsibility to lead toward a solution. . . .

The release of more than 1,000 e-mails between a few prominent climate scientists has stirred controversy in recent weeks. The e-mails suggest some scientists can be rude and dismissive when challenged. The scientists also presented data in slanted ways.

But evidence far beyond the work of those few scientists involved in the flap suggests rising global temperatures pose serious risk of flooding, drought and human misery.

Both sides of the global-warming debate have their extremists. Leaders in Copenhagen and Congress need to work from the middle to craft a thoughtful and cost-conscious approach to cleaner air policy.

Wisconsin and the world need solutions that ease global warming while simultaneously benefiting public health, national defense and jobs.

Friday, December 11, 2009

Legislature releases to enact global warming recommendations

With little fanfare, legislative leaders releases a copy of the bill to implement the recommendations of the Task Force on Global Warming. Use these links to access:

+ Bill draft
+ Index to the bill
+ Short overview
+ Detailed summary

Thursday, December 10, 2009

AESP's 20th National Conference & Expo


From a conference announcement from the Association of Energy Service Professionals (AESP):

AESP's National Conference & Expo is the premier energy industry conference that unites renowned energy experts, stimulating educational sessions, and valuable networking opportunities into one convenient location. You will discover new ideas for your marketing and energy efficiency programs; learn about emerging market trends and technologies; and meet with colleagues to share experiences.

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Focus on Energy offers $1 million in opportunity grants

From a news release issued by Focus on Energy:

(December 7, 2009)—Focus on Energy, Wisconsin’s statewide resource for energy efficiency and renewable energy, in partnership with Wisconsin Public Service, announced plans to award $1 million in Opportunity Grants through a request for proposal (RFP) process to help eligible WPS customers finance innovative energy-saving project ideas. Potential bidders must submit a RFP by January 7, 2010 to be considered.

The RFP seeks “out-of-the-box” ideas for energy-saving projects and initiatives. Winning proposals will complement existing Focus programs and/or explore and test emerging energyefficiency technologies. Grants will be awarded on a competitive basis, and the number of grant awards will depend on available funding. New and innovative products, technologies, and services that save energy are encouraged.

“At Focus on Energy, we encourage new, innovative ways to save energy and money,” said Kathy Kuntz, Energy Programs Director at Focus on Energy. “This Opportunity Grant provides a real opportunity to do just that. We’re excited to see what residents, businesses, and organizations will come up with!”

The Opportunity Grant is open to all individuals, firms, and organizations that are proposing project ideas and energy-saving initiatives that would serve WPS customers. Efforts can target innovative energy-saving technologies as well as behavioral changes. Projects may target any sector, product, or service eligible for support through Focus on Energy (including residential, business, and renewable energy). Proposals should not duplicate current Focus on Energy efforts.

For more information about Focus on Energy and current efforts, visit focusonenergy.com.

Monday, December 7, 2009

Solar panels rise to Capitol heights

Governor Jim Doyle signals a crane operator to lift the first pallet of solar panels (right) for installation on the West Wing of the State Capitol. Madison Gas and Electric (MGE) President Gary (middle) and Chris Collins (right), a representative of the installer H&H Solar, joined in the liftoff.

The 48 solar panels in the final installation will cover 9,600 square feet on the Capitol roof and produce about 11,700 kilowatt hours of electricity a year, slightly more than a typical Wisconsin home would use annually.The system will be owned and maintained by MGE, which is fully funding the $78,000 project.

Thursday, December 3, 2009

PSC approves settlement between environmental groups and utility

From a news release issued by Clean Wisconsin:

Madison, Wis. – In a decision that will help restore and protect the health of Lake Michigan, The Public Service Commission today voted to approve the terms of a settlement agreement that ended litigation between We Energies and environmental groups regarding the use of a once-through cooling system at the Elm Road Generating Station.

“Today the PSC approved a settlement agreement that begins a 24-year, $96 million dollar initiative for Lake Michigan projects,” said Katie Nekola, Energy Program Director at Clean Wisconsin, the state’s largest environmental advocacy organization. “We’re very happy that litigation ended in such a way that will benefit all of the people who enjoy one of the world’s most magnificent natural resources.”

The funding will be used to address priority problems such as invasive species, polluted runoff, sewage overflows, and other issues that negatively affect the health of Lake Michigan.

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Decision Nears on Glacier Hills Wind Park

From an article in Catching Wind, a newsletter of the Wisconsin Wind Working Group:

The Glacier Hills Wind Park proceeding (6630-CE-302) is entering the home stretch. Hearings on the 90-turbine, 162 MW windpower installation proposed in Columbia County have ended, and parties are now preparing and exchanging post-hearing briefs. The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (“PSCW”) is likely to issue its ruling on the application submitted by Wisconsin Electric Power Company (“WEPCO”) in early January. If approved, project construction would begin in 2010. All 90 turbines should be operational some time in 2011.
As of this moment, Glacier Hills is the only utility-owned windpower facility proposed for development in Wisconsin. In sharp contrast to neighboring states (see table below), there has been no windpower construction activity in Wisconsin since the 54 MW Butler Ridge project was placed in service this past March. No other wind developer with a fully permitted project has announced plans to start construction in 2010.

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Clash begins on lifting nuclear construction ban

From a news release issued by The Carbon Free Nuclear Free coalition, which includes Physicians for Social Responsibility, Clean Wisconsin, Wisconsin Network for Peace and Justice, League of Women Voters Education Fund, Nukewatch, Wisconsin League of Conservation Voters, Peace Action Wisconsin, Citizens for Safe Water Around Badger, Citizens Utility Board, Coulee Region Progressives, Wisconsin Environment, and the Wisconsin Public Interest Research Group (WISPIRG):

Repeal of Wisconsin’s restrictions on new nuclear power reactors is “a gift to the dying nuclear industry that Wisconsin residents can’t afford,” a Carbon Free Nuclear Free coalition of 13 environmental, public interest and consumer groups said Tuesday.

At a holiday-themed State Capitol news conference, members of the coalition asked state lawmakers to “be nice, not naughty” by defeating the repeal, Assembly Bill 516, and supporting a state energy policy that would replace coal and nuclear power with renewable energy sources by 2050.

The coalition says that cost, safety, radioactive waste and environmental issues make nuclear power too expensive and too dangerous when renewable energy alternatives are now technically feasible and available.

“Clean renewables and energy efficiency are the gifts that really keep on giving -- clean air, clean water, affordable electricity and reduced carbon emissions,” said Jennifer Nordstrom, national coordinator of the Carbon Free Nuclear Free campaign.

“Wisconsin's nuclear plant law is one of the most sensible laws on the books,” Charlie Higley executive director of the Citizens Utility Board, said. The law requires that, before any new nuclear power plant is built in Wisconsin, a federally-licensed nuclear waste disposal site be operating, and that the cost of building, operating, and decommissioning the nuclear plant and disposing of the nuclear waste is economically advantageous to ratepayers. “Cost is a major concern,” Higley said, “and removing this protection would be a mistake.”

From a news release issued by State Rep. Mike Huebsch:

Madison…State Representative Mike Huebsch (R-West Salem) blasted Wisconsin environmental advocacy groups today for walking away from an agreement reached by the Governor’s Global Warming Task Force to repeal the ban on new nuclear power plants.

In a Capitol press conference on Tuesday, the Citizens Utility Board, Clean Wisconsin and the Wisconsin Sierra Club announced their opposition to repealing the ban and modifying the law.

Rep. Huebsch noted that representatives of all three groups voted for the task force
recommendations, including the ban’s repeal, just last year and called their new position “the beginning of the unraveling” of the agreement.

Rep. Huebsch said that the groups’ decision to oppose an integral piece of the global warming legislation being readied for introduction by Governor Doyle and Democrat lawmakers jeopardizes their ability to enact the environmental policy for Wisconsin.

“The legislation isn’t even introduced yet and already members of the task force are reneging on their commitment,” Rep. Huebsch said. “They cannot remove fundamental portions of an agreement and then expect what’s left to be taken seriously.”

Monday, November 30, 2009

PSC should approve the settlement with We Energies

From an editorial in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel:

The state Public Service Commission [PSC] appears to have taken a reasonable approach to We Energies' request for an increase in rates for electricity customers, granting some but not all of what the utility was asking. While any increase hurts consumers during a time of recession, the reality is that We Energies needs to cover costs related to building power plants, transmission lines costs and employee pensions.

Wisconsin needs reasonable power costs to attract and retain businesses, but it also needs reliable power. The PSC is striving to make sure the state has both.

But commissioners delayed making a decision on one aspect of the rate request. That delay could hurt Wisconsin consumers and the environment. Commissioners should reconsider, and grant the request without any delay.

At stake is a settlement We Energies reached in 2008 with environmental groups involving cooling methods for its new coal plants in Oak Creek. The settlement was a victory for all sides, allowing the utility and its partners to complete the plants in a timely manner, providing help for Lake Michigan in the form of funds for restoration initiatives and expanding renewable energy in Wisconsin.

The $105 million settlement will be paid for mostly by electric customers, but that price tag will be far less than it could have been under a protracted legal battle over the plant's cooling system. The utilities involved and the environmental groups who fought the plant worked hard to reach a compromise that serves everyone.

But that compromise could be put in jeopardy if the PSC rejects the portion of the rate hike request designed to cover the cost of the settlement. The environmental groups could decide that their work was wasted if there is a significant delay in getting the restoration money for Lake Michigan. And re-opening the lawsuit could mean more costs to ratepayers if the groups prevail.

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Sec. Chu announces $620 million for smart grid demonstration and energy storage projects

From a news release issued by the U.S. Department of Energy:

COLUMBUS, OHIO – At an event in Columbus, Ohio this afternoon [November 24], Secretary Chu announced that the Department of Energy is awarding $620 million for projects around the country to demonstrate advanced Smart Grid technologies and integrated systems that will help build a smarter, more efficient, more resilient electrical grid. These 32 demonstration projects, which include large-scale energy storage, smart meters, distribution and transmission system monitoring devices, and a range of other smart technologies, will act as models for deploying integrated Smart Grid systems on a broader scale. This funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act will be leveraged with $1 billion in funds from the private sector to support more than $1.6 billion in total Smart Grid projects nationally.

An Associated Press article posted on WKBT-TV (La Crosse):

Federal energy officials have handed Wisconsin $10 million to improve electrical grids.

The money is part of $620 million in stimulus money that will support 32 grid improvement projects across the country. Projects include large-scale energy storage, monitoring devices and other technological upgrades that will serve as models for the rest of the nation.

U.S. Department of Energy officials say Wisconsin's share of the stimulus money will go toward a $21 million effort by Waukesha Electric Systems to develop a smaller, more efficient utility substation transformer.

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

RENEW brief supports Glacier Hills Wind Park

From RENEW Wisconsin's brief filed with the Public Service Commission in support of the Glacier Hills Wind Park:

The design of the proposed Project is in the public interest first and foremost because it will be powered by wind rather than fossil fuels. Wind energy is a locally available, self-replenishing, emission-free electricity source. Fossil fuels, on the other hand, must be imported, are available in limited quantities, and emit pollutants. Moreover, using wind energy furthers the State’s policy goal that all new installed capacity for electric generation be based on renewable energy resources to the extent cost-effective and technically feasible. Wis. Stat. § 1.12(3)(b).

In his direct testimony, RENEW Wisconsin witness Michael Vickerman outlined a number of other public policy objectives that would be advanced by the construction of Glacier Hills. These include:
1. Helping Wisconsin Electric Power Company (“WEPCO”) meet its renewable energy requirements under Wis. Stat. § 196.378(2)(a)(2)d;
2. Securing adequate supplies of energy from sustainable sources;
3. Protecting ratepayers from rising fossil fuel prices;
4. Reducing air and water emissions from generation sources;
5. Preserving working farms and pasture land;
6. Generating additional revenues for host towns and counties;
7. Reducing the flow of capital out of Wisconsin for energy purchases; and
8. Investing Wisconsin capital in a wealth-producing energy generating facility within its borders. (Tr. D7.3-7.4.)

Monday, November 23, 2009

Report: Nuclear power will set back race against climate change

From a news release issued by Wisconsin Environment:

Madison, WI - Far from a solution to global warming, nuclear power will actually set America back in the race to reduce pollution, according to a new report by Wisconsin Environment. Leading environmental organizations, consumer groups and energy experts gathered today to release the report and call on state and federal leaders to focus on energy efficiency and renewable energy instead of nuclear power as the solution to global warming. . . .

Wisconsin Environment’s new report, Generating Failure: How Building Nuclear Power Plants Would Set America Back in the Race Against Global Warming, analyzes the role, under a best-case scenario, that nuclear power could play in reducing global warming pollution. Some key findings of the report include:

• To avoid the most catastrophic impacts of global warming, America must cut power plant emissions roughly in half over the next 10 years.
• Nuclear power is too slow to contribute to this effort. No new reactors are now under construction in the United States. Building a single reactor could take 10 years or longer. As a result, it is quite possible that nuclear power could deliver no progress in the critical next decade, despite spending billions on reactor construction.
• Even if the nuclear industry somehow managed to build 100 new nuclear reactors by 2030, nuclear power could reduce total U.S. emissions of global warming pollution over the next 20 years by only 12 percent -- far too little, too late.
• In contrast, energy efficiency and renewable energy can immediately reduce global warming pollution. Energy efficiency programs are already cutting electricity consumption by 1-2 percent annually in leading states, and the U.S. wind industry is already building the equivalent of three nuclear reactors per year in wind farms. America has vast potential to do more.
• Building 100 new reactors would require an up-front investment on the order of $600 billion dollars – money which could cut at least twice as much carbon pollution by 2030 if invested in clean energy. Taking into account the ongoing costs of running the nuclear plants, clean energy could deliver 5 times more pollution-cutting progress per dollar.
• Nuclear power is not necessary to provide clean, carbon-free electricity for the long haul. The need for base-load power is exaggerated and small-scale clean energy solutions can actually enhance the reliability of the electric grid.

To address global warming, state and federal policy makers should focus on improving energy efficiency and generating electricity from clean sources that never run out – such as wind, solar, biomass and geothermal power, according to Wisconsin Environment and the coalition groups that attended today’s event.

Friday, November 20, 2009

Homegrown Renewable Energy Campaign touts renewable energy buyback rates

From a fact sheet issued by the Homegrown Renewable Energy Campaign:

An innovative way to encourage more smaller-scale renewable energy systems by paying premiums to customers for wind, solar, biogas or biomass electric generation.

How are they different from standard utility buyback rates?
Unlike standard buyback rates, Renewable Energy Buyback Rates provide a fixed purchase price for the electricity produced over a period of 10 to 20 years. They are set at levels sufficient to fully recover installation costs along with a modest profit. Because the purchase price is guaranteed over a long period, Renewable Energy Buyback Rates make it easy for customers to obtain financing for their generation projects.

Why don’t utilities pursue these small-scale renewable projects themselves?
In general, the smaller the generating facility, the less likely it is owned by a utility. Utilities tend to favor bulk generation facilities that employ economies of scale to produce electricity at a lower cost. Renewable power plants owned by
utilities—such as large wind projects—are sized to serve their entire territory, not just a particular distribution area. For that reason utilities have shown little appetite for owning and operating distributed generation facilities powered with
solar, biogas, wind, and hydro.

If utilities won’t invest in small-scale renewable projects, how will they get built?
Clearly, the capital needed to build smaller-scale renewable projects has to come from independent sources—either customers or third parties. There is no shortage of investor interest in these systems, and sufficient capital is available. What’s needed to finance these projects is a predictable, long-term purchasing arrangement that assures full capital recovery if the project performs according to expectations. That’s where Renewable Energy Payments come into play.

Thursday, November 19, 2009

The staggering cost of new nuclear power

From an article by Joseph Room on Center for American Progress:

A new study puts the generation costs for power from new nuclear plants at 25 to 30 cents per kilowatt-hour—triple current U.S. electricity rates!

This staggering price is far higher than the cost of a variety of carbon-free renewable power sources available today—and 10 times the cost of energy efficiency (see “Is 450 ppm possible? Part 5: Old coal’s out, can’t wait for new nukes, so what do we do NOW?”

The new study, “Business Risks and Costs of New Nuclear Power,” is one of the most detailed cost analyses publically available on the current generation of nuclear power plants being considered in this country. It is by a leading expert in power plant costs, Craig A. Severance. A practicing CPA, Severance is co-author of The Economics of Nuclear and Coal Power (Praeger 1976), and former assistant to the chairman and to commerce counsel, Iowa State Commerce Commission.

This important new analysis is being published by Climate Progress because it fills a critical gap in the current debate over nuclear power—transparency. Severance explains:

All assumptions, and methods of calculation are clearly stated. The piece is a deliberate effort to demystify the entire process, so that anyone reading it (including non-technical readers) can develop a clear understanding of how total generation costs per kWh come together.
As stunning as this new, detailed cost estimate is, it should not come as a total surprise. I detailed the escalating capital costs of nuclear power in my May 2008 report, “The Self-Limiting Future of Nuclear Power.” And in a story last week on nuclear power’s supposed comeback, Time magazine notes that nuclear plants’ capital costs are “out of control,” concluding:

Most efficiency improvements have been priced at 1¢ to 3¢ per kilowatt-hour, while new nuclear energy is on track to cost 15¢ to 20¢ per kilowatt-hour. And no nuclear plant has ever been completed on budget.
Time buried that in the penultimate paragraph of the story!

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

ZBB gets order for renewable energy project in Canada

From a story in Business Times:

Menomonee Falls-based ZBB Energy Corp. today announced that it has received an order for four standard, modular ZESS 50 energy storage systems from Powertech Labs, a subsidiary of BC Hydro, for the Bella Coola Hydrogen Assisted Renewable Power (HARP) project in Bella Coola, British Columbia.

The ZESS energy storage systems will be used as part of a demonstration project that uses multiple components (power generation, utilization, storage, and dispatch optimization) to provide electrical power to an isolated remote area grid with the goal of reducing reliance on diesel generation and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in remote communities in British Columbia.

The project objective is to increase the utilization of BC Hydro’s Clayton Falls small hydro plant and reduce the reliance on diesel generators at its Ah Sin Heek generating facility. The ZESS units will be used to store excess power from Clayton Falls, to be later dispatched during periods when Clayton Falls is unable to supply sufficient power to the community.

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Milwaukee a finalist for Spanish wind energy company

From a post by Tom Content on his blog at JSOnline:

Milwaukee and one other city are in the running for a Spanish wind energy supplier as it considers its first manufacturing plant in the United States.

The name of the firm and the name of the city competing against Milwaukee haven't been disclosed, but Tim Sheehy, president of the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce, said the company was in the alternative energy business.

State and city economic development leaders were in Spain this week for meetings with the Spanish firm. Brian Manthey, a spokesman for We Energies, said the team that headed to Spain brought along a representative of the utility who has expertise about wind energy.

The company would be expected to create 100 to 200 jobs here, Sheehy said.

Milwaukee is a finalist for the investment, after earlier competing against more than a dozen cities that the firm was considering.

Representatives of the company have been to the city twice to evaluate potential suppliers and the availability of skilled manufacturing workers, he said.

Representatives of the state at the meeting this week were state Commerce Secretary Dick Leinenkugel, city development director Rocky Marcoux, and Pat O'Brien and Jim Paetsch from the Milwaukee 7 economic development group.

"It's fair to call this a significant investment," Sheehy said. "We've got a lot of manpower on the ground over there - not that we're not going to chase every possible job out there - but I think the manpower is appropriate to the potential in this deal."

Monday, November 16, 2009

Solar energy field remains strong in Wisconsin

From an article by Tom Content in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel:

Given our climate, Wisconsin would never be mistaken for the best solar state in the country.

But among non-Sun Belt states, the state is staking a claim in providing power from the sun.

Except for California and Texas, Wisconsin is the only state with two cities - Milwaukee and Madison - in the national Solar America Cities program.

A $19.6 million project for Roundy's Corp. in Oconomowoc would become the largest solar power project in the Midwest, if it gets $8.8 million in federal stimulus funding.

And the state has more certified solar installers per capita than nearly every state in the country, according to Tehri Parker, executive director of the Midwest Renewable Energy Association. Even with the recession, the number of solar installations is expanding - and so is training for solar-contracting jobs, Parker said.

On a recent weekend in Milwaukee, trainees from Wyoming, Virginia and Missouri were on a rooftop in Milwaukee's central city installing solar panels on a Habitat for Humanity home.

Habitat is partnering with We Energies and the Midwest Renewable Energy Association to provide much-needed training for solar technicians - a job that's expected to be in high demand given the growth trajectory that solar enjoys.

John Price, a firefighter with the Brookfield Fire Department, is looking to switch careers into a greener line of work.

He's getting trained in solar installation, working on installing solar panels at Habitat for Humanity homes in Milwaukee, and forming a Waukesha business, Access Solar, with his sons.

He was leading an installation at a Habitat house a few weeks back and learned his students hailed from across the country.

"It's people who've been laid off, or are people who are in their 40s who are changing careers or laid off and looking for something else," said Price, 50.

Small fraction
Solar represents a fraction of the energy supply puzzle. If the state's energy supply in 2007 were a 500-piece jigsaw puzzle, coal would account for more than 300 pieces, and renewable energy would account for about 20 pieces. All the solar power in the state wouldn't add up to a piece.

But the growth rate for solar has been something to behold, even as advocates concede the numbers are small in total.

"It's been a remarkable year," said Niels Wolter, who heads solar programs at the state Focus on Energy program. "We're projecting out 73% growth over last year. Before that it was growing at about 80% per year since 2002. So it's slowed down a little bit in the growth rate, but it's still a booming market. . . ."

Even with all these projects and announcements, some renewable energy advocates say the growth rate will slow considerably in 2010 because electric utilities no longer are offering extra incentives to give the solar market a boost.

We Energies had a generous solar buyback rate in place two years ago, and replaced it with a different program this year. That program is fully subscribed, and no more applications are being accepted.

Michael Vickerman, executive director of the advocacy group Renew Wisconsin, said the expiration of those incentives is unfortunate. He's urging the state to move aggressively to require utilities to offer generous buyback rates.

"We are clearly the leading state in the Midwest, but that momentum is in danger of dissipating," said Vickerman. "Because what really attracts customers and would-be system owners is the buyback rate."

And developers of large solar projects aren't coming to Wisconsin, said green-energy consultant Brett Hulsey, because Wisconsin hasn't followed states such as California and New Jersey in adopting tax credits to bring down the price of solar projects.

Utilities say that the incentives are being subsidized by other utility customers. Other incentives are still available, including a 30% federal tax credit and rebates from Focus on Energy, said We Energies spokesman Brian Manthey.

In addition, the prices for solar panels themselves have dropped by 15% in recent months, shortening the number of years it would take to pay back the investment in solar from about 23 years to about 20 years, depending on the project.

Friday, November 13, 2009

Demand Control: Your Action Plan to Savings

A course offering from the Energy Center of Wisconsin:

Discover how to manage your loads to minimize electric demand costs. This half-day workshop will examine the fundamentals of monitoring, analyzing and managing electrical demand in facilities to take advantage of electric rates including time-of-use with demand charges and peak pricing demand response programs. This training is designed to serve customers who have a time of use rate with demand charges. Commercial, institutional and industrial businesses will learn innovations in reducing costs and saving energy.

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Renewable Energy Quarterly, Fall 2009, now online

RENEW Wisconsin's newsletter features these articles:

+ Doyle Signs Wind Siting Reform Bill into Law
+ Solar Outlook Set to Dim in 2010
+ PSC Approves Coal to Wood Conversion
+ Producer Profile: Rick Adamski
+ Educating Schools on Solar Air Heating
+ RENEW Slams Anti-Wind Article
+ Calendar

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

We Energies coal plant hits milestone, generates power

From a Tom Content post on JSOnline:

We Energies’ newest coal-fired plant is generating power, after “significant progress” in construction over the past three months, the company’s chairman said Thursday.

The coal plant consists of two coal-fired boilers next to an older coal plant on Lake Michigan in Oak Creek. The first new boiler began burning coal earlier this month and has been running at 25% of maximum power in recent days, said Gale Klappa, We Energies chairman and chief executive.

Bechtel Power Corp., the contractor on the project, also has made progress on building the second boiler, which is now 74% complete, Klappa said.

The $2.3 billion project is the most expensive construction project in state history, as it’s roughly double the combined cost of building Miller Park and rebuilding the Marquette Interchange.

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Solar thermal expo and conference,
December 3-4

From the Midwest Renewable Energy Association:

SOLAR THERMAL '09 is a national conference and expo for the solar thermal professional. The Midwest Renewable Energy Association invites you to the only professional level conference devoted to solar heating and cooling.

Installers, manufacturers, site assessors, dealers, distributors, state agency representatives, and policy makers will not want to miss this one-of-a-kind conference.

TOPICS INCLUDE:
•Solar hot water, solar hot air, and solar space heating sessions
•Manufacturer and dealer updates
•Best practices on residential and commercial applications
•New control and balance of system options
•Structural considerations
•State policy and incentive updates

Register here.

Monday, November 9, 2009

Video showing -- Mountain top removal coal mining, Nov. 11 & 12

Wisconsin buys coal mined by blasting the tops off of Appalachian mountains & dumping the debris in the valleys!

Coal Country
November 11, 2009
Noon
Room 328 NW, State Capitol

Coal Country
November 12, 2009
7:00 p.m.
Goodman Community Center
149 Waubesa, Madison


The State of Wisconsin buys coal to be burned in state facilities from Massey Coal and Alpha Coal, two companies using the latest form of strip mining called mountaintop removal, or MTR. Coal companies blast the tops off mountains, and run the debris into valleys and streams. Then they mine the exposed seams of coal and transport it to processing plants. Coal is mined more cheaply than ever, and America needs coal. But the air and water are filled with chemicals, and an ancient mountain range is disappearing forever.

COAL COUNTRY is a dramatic look at modern coal mining. We get to know working miners along with activists who are battling coal companies in Appalachia. We hear from miners and coal company officials, who are concerned about jobs and the economy and believe they are acting responsibly in bringing power to the American people. Both sides in this conflict claim that history is on their side. Families have lived in the region for generations, and most have ancestors who worked in the mines. Everyone shares a deep love for the land, but MTR (Mountain Top Removal mining which has leveled over 500 Appalachian mountains) is tearing them apart.

More information -- Ed Blume, 608.819.0748, eblume@renewwisconsin.org

Sponsored by Sierra Club; RENEW Wisconsin; Madison Peak Oil Group; Wisconsin Network for Peace & Justice's "carbon free, nuclear free" campaign.

Friday, November 6, 2009

Integrys Energy Group plans cuts despite profit

From an article by Richard Ryman in the Green Bay Press Gazette:

Integrys Energy Group reported a $51.1 million profit in the third quarter, but warned Thursday that challenging times are ahead.

Company leaders said they will furlough all nonunion employees for one week in 2010 and also are planning job cuts, some at least related to the downsizing of the Integrys Energy Services subsidiary.

"The continued impact of the economy is really causing us to take even more aggressive actions to maintain our costs and make sure we take some of those costs permanently out of the system," Charles Schrock, president and CEO, said Thursday during a conference call with analysts.

The Chicago-based utility holding company is continuing a general hiring freeze in place for more than a year, is restricting travel, reducing the use of outside contractors and changing a retirement benefit plan for most new employees.

Thursday, November 5, 2009

Alliant begins test burns of biomass at Cassville plant

A news release from Alliant Energy:

MADISON, WI – November 5, 2009 – Wisconsin Power and Light Company (WPL), an Alliant Energy company, has begun testing the usage of biomass at its Nelson Dewey Generating Station. The move comes after the company received a Research and Testing Exemption from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) to test burn various biomass fuels at the site.

The WDNR approval allows for the co-firing to be done for a 12-month period within the facility’stwo cyclone coal boilers. Throughout the test burn process, WPL will examine a number of factors including environmental impacts, supply chain capabilities, material delivery and handling costs, and the blending and combustion of biomass based materials within the current plant configuration. No permanent structures or modifications will be made to the existing facility’s equipment to accommodate the test burns.

“We continually work to explore the technologies and costs associated with reducing our carbon footprint and this is another step in that process,” explains Barbara Swan, President – WPL.

“Conducting these test burns at Nelson Dewey will help us understand the capabilities we have within our current system.”

Biomass-based fuels approved for test burning within the current fuel blends include wood chips, agricultural based pellets, as well as native grasses. Other biofuel opportunities may present themselves during the testing, thus WPL would seek to update the test program, upon approval of the WDNR, to include any additions.

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Solar Powering Your Community: A Guide for Local Governments

From Solar American Cities in the U.S. Department of Energy:

The U.S. Department of Energy developed this comprehensive resource to assist local governments and stakeholders in building sustainable local solar markets. The guide introduces a range of policy and program options that have been successfully field tested in cities around the country. The guide describes each policy or program, followed by more information on:

•Benefits: Identifies benefits from implementing the policy or program.
•Implementation Tips and Options: Outlines various tips and options for designing and implementing the policy or program.
•Examples: Highlights experiences from communities that have successfully implemented the policy or program.
•Additional References and Resources: Lists additional reports, references, and tools that offer more information on the topic, where applicable.

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Summit Blue Launches New Website Highlighting Energy Consulting Services

From a news release issued by Summit Blue Consulting, LLC:

BOULDER, Colo., Nov. 2 /PRNewswire/ -- Summit Blue Consulting, LLC recently launched a newly redesigned website at www.summitblue.com. Summit Blue collaborated with Vermillion, a design firm to develop a new website that features expanded content and better represents the firm's technical capabilities and growing energy consulting services. The redesign incorporates a new look, new navigational tools, and additional information about Summit Blue's staff qualifications and energy industry contributions.

"Our online visitors can now easily search our site for information on each of our practice areas," says Kevin Cooney, CEO of Summit Blue. "The new design was created to allow clients and others interested in clean energy research and analysis to locate refereed papers, reports and presentations and more easily contact Summit Blue staff who conducted specific research."

The website now offers case studies to reflect the firm's expertise and project experience in the key practice areas of demand-side management (DSM) program evaluation; DSM program design and implementation; DSM resource potential assessment; Smart Grid, demand response, and pricing; renewables; and integrated resource planning and analysis.

The site provides the technical background and expertise of staff in areas including economics, engineering, energy policy, market research, and complex systems modeling. It also provides contact information for staff at all locations, including the recently expanded offices in Walnut Creek, California, Madison, Wisconsin, and Vancouver, Washington. The redesign includes an expanded news and events section and access to hundreds of industry relevant publications authored by Summit Blue staff.

Summit Blue was founded in 2000 and is a leading provider of utility and energy consulting services drawing on a broad and diverse range of skills from its offices in Colorado, California, Wisconsin, Washington, Illinois and Vermont. With extensive experience in energy efficiency, demand response and renewable energy systems, our core mission remains the same: to provide best-in-class consulting services to the utility and energy industry while engaging our staff in challenging and interesting work.

Monday, November 2, 2009

3 state utilities win $21.5 million in smart grid grants

From a blog post by Tom Content on JSOnline:

The Obama administration's high-profile $3.4 billion funding rollout for the "smart grid" includes $21.5 million for Wisconsin, the administration said Tuesday.

Three Wisconsin utilities will share $21.5 million in funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

Pewaukee-based American Transmission Co. received the most funding, totaling more than $12.7 million, for two different projects. The company's projects consist of a fiber-optic communications network for high-speed communications across the ATC transmission system in Wisconsin and Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

Madison Gas & Electric Co. won $5.5 million to install a network of 1,750 smart meters as well as a network of 12 public charging stations and 25 in-home vehicle charging management systems for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles and electric vehicles.

Also in Madison, Wisconsin Power & Light Co. was awarded $3.2 million for a program that would expand on the automated meters that it is installing across Wisconsin. DOE said WP&L will implement a "power factor management system to minimize overload on distribution lines, transformers and feeder segments," in a project that would reduce wasted electricity on its distribution system, or local network of small power lines.

Friday, October 30, 2009

PSC Approves Biomass Conversion at Bay Front Power Plant

From a news release issued by the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin:

MADISON – In a unanimous decision today, the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) approved Northern States Power Company-Wisconsin’s (NSPW) proposal to install the nation’s largest biomass gasifier, a system that will produce synthetic gas from biomass for the production of electricity at the company’s Bay Front Power Plan in Ashland, Wisconsin.

The PSC’s decision today will allow NSPW to convert one of the plant’s coal burning boilers to one that generates electricity from burning a variety of wood types found in Wisconsin. The new biomass gasifier will be able to produce 20 megawatts of electricity from biomass fuel sources, while producing an additional 8 megawatts through the use of natural gas.

“This project swaps out 20 megawatts of old, boutique coal for locally grown biomass, keeping ratepayers’ fuel dollars in Wisconsin,” said Chairperson Eric Callisto. “Our ratepayers send over a billion dollars out of state every year to buy coal for power generation. Today’s decision helps keep more of those dollars here in Wisconsin. . . .”

The technology approved at the plant has been developed over the past half century and is being used throughout the world because of growing interest in clean, renewable energy. Hundreds of biomass gasifiers are in operation globally, with most of them found in Asia and Europe at small-scale plants that provide comparatively small amounts of heat or electricity to farms and small industries. To date, the use of biomass gasifiers for the production of electricity in the U.S. has been predominantly small in scale, although some larger units have been installed in recent years.

Documents associated with NSPW’s application can be viewed on our Electronic Regulatory Filing System at http://psc.wi.gov. Enter case number 4220-CE-169 in the boxes provided on the PSC homepage, or click on the Electronic Regulatory Filing System button.

Thursday, October 29, 2009

Glacier Hills Wind Park hearing, Nov. 4

The Public Service Commission will take public testimony on We Energies' proposed Glacier Hills Wind Park.

Wednesday, November 4
3 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Randolph Town Hall
109 S. Madison St. – Friesland

Those opposed to wind projects will likely make arguments like the one below from letter-to-the-editor of the Manitowoc Times Herald. The writere offered this outrageous explanation for why the Legislature passed and the govenor signed the bill on wind siting reform:
Blinded by a feel-good solution for a problem that never existed [global warming], legislators are being misled into a belief that something like wind turbines will not have a negative effect on those who are left to live around them . . .

To understand the problem you needed to be at the hearing in Mandison on May 12, held by the Senate and Assembly Energy Committee. . . .

It was obvious that the pro-wind lobby, paid with your tax money from RENEW Wisconsin, had the minds of legislators on their side long before the hearing.
Read more wild assertions from the letter.

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Wind association applauds steps to streamline transmission siting

From a news release issued by the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA):

The American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) enthusiastically supports a new policy announced today by the administration that will greatly facilitate efforts to access world-class renewable energy resources currently stranded in remote parts of the country. The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) announced today will streamline the transmission permitting process for federal lands by improving coordination among nine federal agencies and creating timelines to limit delays in the permit approval process.

“The wind industry applauds the Obama administration for recognizing the need to address transmission barriers and enacting a measure to improve the speed and ease with which transmission can be constructed across federal lands. This MOU is an important step towards putting more of our abundant renewable energy resources to use, powering American homes and businesses with clean, domestic sources of energy while creating thousands of high-paying jobs here in America” noted AWEA’s CEO Denise Bode.

Currently, lengthy delays in the process of obtaining the necessary permits from federal agencies to build transmission lines across federal land are a major barrier to accessing the country’s best renewable energy resources. This is particularly true in the Western U.S. where the federal government owns more than one-half of the land and any interstate transmission line is likely to cross land controlled by one or more federal entities.

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

The Financial Effect of Energy Efficiency on Utilities: A Closer Look at Decoupling

A Webinar, Oct. 28, 1:00 p.m., from the Energy Center of Wisconsin:

Many energy efficiency advocates believe that revenue decoupling consistently removes the disincentive for utilities to promote energy efficiency. Finance principles suggest a more nuanced conclusion.

In this webinar, Steve Kihm explains that utility managers ultimately care about stock prices, of which rate of return is only one component. Energy efficiency affects all three key drivers of a utility’s stock price: rate of return, cost of capital and investment scale. Decoupling, however, addresses only the rate of return driver. When Steve applies the more comprehensive financial framework, he shows that decoupling is a tactical tool that can be applied effectively to some utilities rather than a strategic approach that will work for all utilities.

Monday, October 26, 2009

State continues to rank among leaders in energy efficiency

From an article by Larry Bivins in the Stevens Point Journal:

WASHINGTON — Wisconsin has lost a little ground in energy efficiency, but it still ranks among the top states, according to a new report released today.

The Badger State fell from ninth to 11th on a 2009 scorecard compiled by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy. The group rated states’ energy policies and programs in six categories — utilities and public benefits; transportation; building energy codes; combined heat and power; government initiatives; and appliance efficiency standards.

Wisconsin totaled 24 out of a possible 50 points. The national average was 17.

Wisconsin’s best showing was in combined heat and power, on which it scored four out of five total points. Its worst showing was on appliance efficiency standard, where it scored zero.

The state’s slippage in the rankings was more a result of other states having made substantial improvements rather than Wisconsin not doing as much as it had in the past, said Maggie Eldridge, the ACEEE report’s lead author. Maine, for example, moved from 19th to the 10th spot.

Wisconsin, she said, has “a very long and strong track record of offering energy efficiency programs.”

Dan Kohler, director of Wisconsin Environment, said while the state has a good ratepayer-funded energy efficiency program, it could do a lot more. He said his organization has called on the state to require a 2 percent reduction in energy use per year and to use federal money to retrofit homes and businesses.

“Energy efficiency is the fastest and cheapest way to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and reduce carbon pollution,” Kohler said. “Plus, it can save consumers and businesses hundreds of dollars each year on their bills.”

Friday, October 23, 2009

Experts rip anti-wind arguments

Even though the quotes below from pre-filed statements take the form of rebuttal testimony in the PSC proceedings on We Energies Glacier Hills Wind Park, they can stand on their own. You need not read the filings they rebut in order to make sense out of what they're saying.

The pre-filed testimony stands among the strongest redupiation of anti-wind arguments.

These filings will be formally entered into the record when the technical hearings begin on November 2nd, but they (and all other filings) are available online at the Web site of the Public Service Commission and link directlyi to case 6630-CE-302.

Richard Larkin, a state certified real estate appraiser, rebuts a “study” of property values paid for by the Coaliton for Wisconsin Environmental Stewardship (CWESt), a group opposing the Glacier Hills project:

I am responding to testimony submitted by Kurt Kielisch on behalf of CWESt, in 1 which he claims that paired sales analyses at the Blue Sky Green Field and Forward wind projects shows that proximity to wind turbines results in a significant negative impact on residential real estate values. There are significant (and probably fatal) problems with his analysis, which I will explain in my testimony. . . .

. . .it is my opinion that Appraisal One’s Wind Turbine Impact Study is significantly flawed, and in my opinion, likely meaningless.
Read all of Larkin’s testimony here.

William Roberts, PhD in Epidemiology, former faculty member with the Medical College of Wisconsin (Dept. of Preventative Medicine), former Oklahoma State Epidemiologist dissects Dr. Nina Pierpont's "research" and rebuts CWESt's acoustical consultant. He summarized his testimony as follows:

+ “Wind Turbine Syndrome” is not a medical diagnosis supported by peer reviewed, published, scientific literature;
+ The materials presented to support “Wind Turbine Syndrome” are not of sufficient scientific quality nor have they received the rigorous scientific review and vetting that is customarily part of the peer review and publishing process;
+ The tried and true scientific method of developing a hypothesis, testing that hypothesis, publishing the results and having others attempt to repeat the research has not been done to test the existence of a health condition called “Wind Turbine Syndrome;”
+ An accumulation of anecdotal interviews with self-selected persons living near a wind turbine does not constitute an epidemiological study and is not sufficient to determine causation;
+ The bases for claimed adverse health effects due to wind turbines cited by Mr. James either cannot withstand scientific scrutiny or have nothing to do with wind turbines; and
+ Siting a wind turbine within view of a residence and the operation of that turbine could be a source of annoyance to those living in the residence.
Read all of Roberts’ testimony here.

Geoff Leventhall, acoustical consultant, PhD in acoustics, presented testimony to rebut CWESt's acoustical consultant.

Based on my experience of infrasound and low frequency noise, it is my belief that the infrasound from wind turbines is of no consequence. Attempts to claim that illnesses result from inaudible wind turbine noise do not stand up to simple analyses of the very low forces and pressures produced by the sound from wind turbines. Additionally, the body is full of sound and vibration at infrasonic and low frequencies, originating in natural body processes. As an example, the beating heart is an obvious source of infrasound within the body. Other sources of background low frequency noise and vibration are blood flows, muscle vibrations, breathing, fluids in the gut and so on. The result is that any effect from wind turbine noise, or any other low level of noise, which might be produced within the body is “lost” in the existing background noise and vibration. This is considered in more detail in my Appraisal of Wind Turbine Syndrome, which is submitted as Exhibit 18.

More broadly, my testimony establishes that the claims of health effects from the low levels of infrasound and low frequency noise from wind turbines, as described in the Wind Turbine Syndrome and Vibroacoustic Disease hypotheses, fail. However, higher frequency noise from wind turbines, if it is audible, can cause disturbance to some residents, but this effect is no different from that of noise from another source.
Read all of Leventhall’s testimony here.

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Over 100 communities support “25x25” clean energy goal

From a news release issued by Govenor Jim Doyle:

MADISON - Governor Jim Doyle today announced over 100 communities have joined the Wisconsin Energy Independent Community Partnership. The communities, which come from every region of Wisconsin, have pledged to work toward Governor Doyle’s “25x25” goal of generating 25 percent of the state’s electricity and transportation fuels from renewable resources by the year 2025.

“I’m pleased that communities across Wisconsin have accepted my clean energy challenges head on,” Governor Doyle said. “Together we are making great strides toward energy policies that create jobs, clean our air and water, and save us money. I look forward to working with Energy Independent Communities as we continue Wisconsin’s clean energy leadership.”

The Wisconsin Energy Independent (EI) Community Partnership is the first of its kind in the nation and is an integral part of Clean Energy Wisconsin, Governor Doyle’s plan to move Wisconsin toward energy independence. The plan details strategies to move Wisconsin forward to promote renewable energy, create new jobs, increase energy security, and improve the environment.

The community partnership, which is led by the Wisconsin Office of Energy Independence, helps individual communities take advantage of their unique resources and develop new strategies to foster innovative clean energy solutions.

New members of the Energy Independent Community Partnership include: City of Two Rivers in Manitowoc County, City of West Allis in Milwaukee County, City of New London in Outagamie County, Village of Stratford in Marathon County, City of Whitewater in Walworth County, City of Jefferson in Jefferson County, Village of Oxford in Marquette County and Iowa County.

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

ATC studies show need for $2.5 billion in investment

From a news release issued by the American Transmission Company (ATC):

PEWAUKEE, Wis. – American Transmission Co. has completed its annual electric transmission system assessment and has identified $2.5 billion in necessary improvements over the next 10 years. The total includes $1 billion for transmission network upgrades, along with $1.5 billion in interconnection and asset renewal projects, infrastructure replacements and relocations, and other smaller network reliability improvements. That is down from the 2008 10-year assessment of $2.7 billion, although the current forecast may change due to regional initiatives to build transmission infrastructure to support renewable generation.

“While ATC has made significant progress since beginning operation in 2001, we continue our process to assess and reassess the needs of our customers to determine and evolve, over time, the best set of transmission projects to meet those needs,” explained Flora Flygt, director of transmission planning at ATC. “Now, more than ever, we are committed to an open, collaborative process to select best-value projects that resolve multiple electric system issues over a broad region.”

The $1 billion investment in new transmission infrastructure includes:
• 131 miles of new transmission lines,
• upgrades to more than 399 miles of existing lines and
• 21 new transformers and 29 new capacitor banks.

The ATC report lists nine regional collaborative planning initiatives in which ATC is leading or participating, including the SMARTransmission Study to identify extra-high voltage transmission infrastructure needed to move wind power within a nine- state region from the Dakotas to Ohio, as well as the Regional Generator Outlet study being conducted by the Midwest Independent System Operator.

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

We Energies public hearing rescheduled

A news release from the Public Service Commission:

MADISON – The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) has rescheduled a 2nd public hearing for Wednesday, October 21 in Milwaukee on We Energies’ (Wisconsin Electric Power Company (WEPCO) and Wisconsin Gas, LLC) request to adjust electric, steam and natural gas rates.

Administrative Law Judge Michael Newmark will be present to receive comments from the public at the hearing site in Serb Hall, Wisconsin South Hall, 5101 West Oklahoma Avenue in Milwaukee beginning at 3 p.m. and 6 p.m.

When a utility requests a change in rates, the PSC conducts a thorough audit of the utility’s expenses and revenues. The agency will look at the amount We Energies needs to provide a reliable source of energy to customers, which includes costs of fuel, maintenance, new construction and environmental protection.

Public comments on We Energies’ application will be included in the record the Commission will review to make a decision. The PSC has the authority to approve, deny or modify the application.

Citizens are encouraged to attend. The hearing location is accessible to people in wheelchairs. Anyone requiring accommodations to participate should contact the PSC at 608-266-5481.

Documents associated with We Energies’ application can be viewed on the PSC’s Electronic Regulatory Filing System at http://psc.wi.gov. Type case numbers 5-UR-104in the boxes provided on the PSC homepage, or click on the Electronic Regulatory Filing System button.

Monday, October 19, 2009

Competitive industrial grants available for energy efficiency efforts

From a news release issued by Focus on Energy:

MADISON, Wis. (October 19, 2009) - Focus on Energy, Wisconsin's statewide resource for energy efficiency and renewable energy, announced competitive grants today to help industrial businesses and manufacturers throughout the state to complete energy efficiency projects.

"In today's economy, many companies are severely capital constrained," said Ken Williams, Focus on Energy's business programs director. "Focus on Energy is committed to providing the financial incentives needed to get large projects off the shelf and on the table."

These grants will fund up to $500,000 or 50 percent of project costs per company for large energy efficiency projects that have been stalled due to lack of available internal capital. Applicants must document a need for funding to overcome the financial barrier to be selected. Approved projects must be completed December 15, 2010 and offer savings of 200,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity or 20,000 therms of natural gas annually.

"Focus offered a similar program in 2007 that was very popular," Williams explained. "We are pleased to offer an expanded version of the program for 2010 and give companies the opportunity to complete stalled projects."

Interested businesses should visit focusonenergy.com/competitive_incentives for more information. Applications must include a list of potential projects as funding is based on the energy savings from those projects and is paid when projects are completed. Applications must be received by December 4, 2009. For more information about large industrial grants call Craig Schepp at (608) 277-2948.

Friday, October 16, 2009

Bill would add new technologies to RPS compliance

From the Legislative Reference Bureau analysis of Assembly Bill 401 (and its companion Senate Bill 273:

Under current law, an electric utility or retail electric cooperative (electric provider) is subject to certain requirements for ensuring that, in a given year, a specified percentage of the electricity that the electric provider sells to retail customers or members is derived from renewable resources. . . .

This bill allows an electric provider to create an additional credit that the electric provider can use or sell like the credit allowed under current law. The bill requires the Public Service Commission (PSC) to promulgate rules that allow an electric provider to create a credit based on the electric provider’s use in a year of the following resources: solar energy, including solar water heating and direct solar applications such as solar light pipe technology; geothermal energy; biomass or biogas. However, the electric provider’s use of the foregoing resources is eligible for a credit only if both of the following are satisfied: 1) the use displaces the electric provider’s use of electricity that is derived from coal, oil, nuclear power or natural gas, except for natural gas used in a fuel cell; and 2) the displacement is verifiable and measurable, as determined by the PSC. In addition, the PSC’s rules must also allow an electric provider to create a credit based on a customer’s or member’s use of resources that satisfies the foregoing requirements.

A number of organizations have registered positions on the bill.

Thursday, October 15, 2009

How does the everyday Joe benefit from Green Power?



From Ask Bob, a feature on the Web site of Madison Gas and Electric.

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

The cost of clean air

From an article by Mike Ivey in The Capital Times:

For more than a decade, customers at Madison Gas & Electric have voted with their pocketbooks for cleaner energy.

Under the voluntary "Green Power Tomorrow" program, more than 12,000 MGE customers - nearly 10 percent of its total customer base - pay on average a premium of about $6 per month to get their electricity from such nonpolluting sources as wind.

"It's been a very reasonable way to reduce our carbon footprint," says Tom Yager, 37, a stay-at-home father of two who lives in Seminole Forest. "It's also helped us track how much electricity we're using and find ways to cut back."

MGE's program has been so successful, in fact, that the company was recently honored by the U.S. Department of Energy with its Utility Green Power Program of the Year Award.

But the bigger question facing all utility customers across Wisconsin is whether they are willing to pay more for their electricity - by some accounts 30 percent more - in the name of saving the planet. Proposed federal rules aimed at curbing such greenhouse gas emissions as carbon dioxide (CO2) would fall most heavily on such states as Wisconsin that rely on fossil fuels to generate most of their
electricity. . . .

And with the state economy already struggling with manufacturing job losses, [Scott Manley, who heads environmental programs for Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce, the state's largest business lobbying group,] is concerned that additional mandates or tougher limits on emissions will further hamstring business efforts. He estimates it could cost $15 billion to reach the 25 percent renewable goal within the next 15 years.

"The fact is, these things are not free, they are tremendously expensive," he says.

WMC has even come out with a survey showing that while Wisconsin residents are concerned about global warming and clean energy, most aren't ready to pay more to address it. The survey of likely voters found that 73 percent are opposed to any increased fees on utility bills to pay for energy conservation. Those polled were, by a 3-1 margin, also against paying as little as $25 a month to curb greenhouse gas emissions.

But clean energy advocates say this is exactly the time to be pushing energy alternatives.

They point to a competing survey from the Forest County Potawatomi showing widespread support for reductions in greenhouse gases like CO2. The poll found support for climate change legislation crossing party lines, with 53 percent of Republicans, 67 percent of independents and 87 percent of Democrats favoring action at the state level.

Michael Vickerman, executive director of Renew Wisconsin, thinks the state should set ambitious goals and send a signal it's serious about wind, solar and other clean energy alternatives.

"Even if we reach 10 percent (renewables) by 2015 it doesn't mean you just stop there," he says.

To that end, Gov. Doyle last month signed legislation to allow uniform rules for the development of small wind farms. Vickerman calls it the most significant piece of clean energy legislation ever passed in Wisconsin, crediting WMC for helping to make it happen. "They really helped us line up Republican votes, otherwise I don't think it would have passed," says Vickerman.

The new law requires the PSC to issue standardized rules for the entire state. Local units of government would then apply these standards as they consider small wind farms of under 100 megawatts.

Vickerman is optimistic that wind power will continue to gain support in the state. He says a project to watch is the proposed Glacier Hills wind project in Columbia County from We Energies that would add 90 turbines producing up to 162 megawatts of electricity.

While Wisconsin doesn't have the ideal landscape for wind power as does Minnesota, Vickerman says that's no reason to stand pat.

"Our wind resources are robust enough," he says. "If we were fully committed, we could accommodate another 1,000 megawatts."

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Excerpts from Glacier Hills Wind Park EIS

The Public Service Commission issued the final environmental impact statement on the Glacier Hills Wind Park, and it includes these items:

Medical Impacts (page 68)
UW Med Flight is the responding air ambulance service closest to the Glacier Hills project area. UW Med Flight and the other reswponding agencies plan to develop safe landing sites or locations within the project area to which medical helicopters could be dispatched. Establishing alternative landing zones in an area is a common tool employed by medical helicopter services where terrain, vegetation, or
structures restrict landing sites....

In some instances, alternate landing sites may not be required; a medical helicopter can land in proximity to a wind turbine if it is safe and prudent to do so. There do not seem to be any UW Med Flight rulers or policies that would preclude landing within a project area if it is safe to do so. The decision about where to land is the pilot's and is based on a variety of site factcors that present themselves upon arrival at an emergency scene. For example, closer landins to a turbine might be possible if the winds are calm and the wind turbine rotors are not rotating.

Sound Impacts (Page 82)
The studies done to date suggest that there is a wide variability in how peopole react to wind turbine noise and that many people do no appear to be affected. The studies do, however, support the concern that some people do react negatively to wind turbine noise, primarily through annoyance and sleep disturbance. It is widely accepted that disruption of sleep can lead to other physiological and psychological problems.

Dr. Nina Pierpont has hypothesized that in addition to annoyance and disturbance, wind turbine noise can result in direct activation of the vestibular and autonomic system leading to other health problems. The validity of this suggestion has been questioned. The Minnesota Department of Health concluded that "evidence is scant" for this hypothesis.

In summary, it is important to recognize that turbine noise can be problematic for some people. Although specific sound levels or distances from turbines cannot be directly correlated with these disturbance or annoyance problems, project design and siting should take potential impactcs of turbine noise into account.

Property Values (page 84)
A more recent study of two recently completed Wisconsin wind farms was completed by Appraisal Group One. This study contained similar problems of small sample size and weak statistical analyses. While the study was limited to residential vacany land sales, other potential factors that might influence sales prices were not analyzed. The study did not verify that all properties sold within the wind farm areas actually had views of wind turbines, whether the properties were sold prior to the proposal of a wind facility versus after the facilities were constructed and operating, and it did not differentiate between vacant lots with infrastructure potential such as streets, sewer, and water as opposed to farmland with no infrastructure.

Monday, October 12, 2009

Sustainable Industry Conference set, Beloit, Oct. 15

From an article by Hillary Gavan in the Beloit Daily News:

Companies and business owners ready to implement green technologies may want to consider attending the upcoming Sustainable Industry Conference scheduled for Oct. 15 at the new Center for the Sciences on the Beloit College campus.

The event will feature a variety of education sessions from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Attendees will be able to customize their agenda, choosing three program choices in each of three time slots. The event also will include a green building tour of the Beloit College Center for the Sciences, which is expected to receive a minimum Gold Level LEED certification. The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System was developed by the U.S. Green Building Council, and provides standards for environmentally sustainable construction.

Interim President of the Greater Beloit Chamber of Commerce Amy Loudenbeck said there are quite a few “early adopters” of sustainable business practices in the Greater Beloit area. The upcoming conference will provide content to support those businesses continuous improvement and innovation.

Topics will include Food Safety and Sustainability, LEED Certification for Existing Buildings, Anaerobic Digester Project for Food Processing and Agricultural Waste, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Systems, Sustainable Supply Chain and Reverse Logistics, and Federal Energy Policy Update/Wisconsin Green Tier Program.