Topics in this April 2012 Green Power Update.

• Go directly to Wind news.
• Go directly to Solar news.
• Go directly to Energy Efficiency news.
• Go directly to Alt Transportation Fuels news.
• Go directly to Other Clean Energy news.
• Go directly to information about upcoming Events.
• Check on PennFuture Energy Center Social Media.

Wind Energy Update
Save money with 100 percent wind energy available NOW
The non-profit organization Citizen Power teamed up with TriEagle Energy last year with the goal of creating a 100 percent wind option for residential customers. Residents in the Duquesne Light service territory can now choose 100 percent wind at a lower cost than they might currently be paying. Similar plans are being offered in the PECO and PPL service territories.

This low-cost wind product is backed by certified renewable energy credits (RECs) from wind farms in Pennsylvania and other states within PJM, the regional electric grid. Citizen Power is currently working on a 100 percent Pennsylvania wind option as well, which helps maximize local environmental benefits. According to Citizen Power Executive Director Titus North, "The lights won't go out when the wind stops. The only change people will notice will be a lower electricity bill."

For step-by-step instructions on choosing a new supplier and to learn what other renewable energy products are available, visit PennFuture’s shopping page. Switching to a renewable energy product, especially Pennsylvania-based renewable energy product, helps support existing and new clean energy projects, and sends a strong message that renewables must be part of our future. The more renewable energy added to our electric grid, the less produced from coal plants, creating real, beneficial reductions in harmful pollution. You can also visit Choose PA Wind to learn about additional Pennsylvania-based renewable energy products.

Shifting winds on the Great Lakes’ wind energy potential
Five states, including Pennsylvania, and ten federal agencies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to gather and review information regarding offshore wind potential in the Great Lakes. According to the MOU, the offshore wind potential in the Great Lakes is close to one-fifth of all potential wind energy nationwide. The collaborative effort between federal agencies and states will serve to streamline processes, ensuring that all potential impacts are appropriately considered. "This agreement will enable states to work together to ensure that any proposed offshore wind projects are reviewed in a consistent manner, and that the various state and federal agencies involved collaborate and coordinate their reviews," said Pennsylvania Governor Tom Corbett.

The five states signing onto the MOU, in addition to Pennsylvania, are Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota and New York. Ohio, Indiana and Wisconsin declined the invitation to join, but will have the opportunity to join the partnership at a later date.

Cape Wind study highlights wind’s ability to lower electricity prices
A recent study by Charles River Associates concluded that the proposed Cape Wind offshore wind energy project will reduce wholesale electricity prices for the New England region by $7.2 billion over 25 years.

This effect, known as price suppression, has been well studied by regional electric grids including PJM, ISO New England, ERCOT in Texas and the New York ISO that use a "single market clearing price" model to meet electricity demand. Under this model, the grid operator chooses the lowest cost generating units first, until supply is met. Generators bid into this market and the highest priced resource needed to meet demand sets the price for all sellers. Since renewable energy sources like wind and solar have no fuel costs, once they are constructed they have little to no operating costs. Therefore, wind and solar can bid into the market at a price close to zero, helping to push out more expensive generators such as gas peaking plants that rely on expensive and variable fossil fuels.

Several other reports are currently available detailing the ability of wind energy to lower wholesale electricity prices. KEMA recently performed an analysis of the market price impacts of renewable energy resources during The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority’s (NYSERDA) first three renewable portfolio standard procurements (2005, 2006, 2007). The results estimate that for each megawatt-hour (MWh) of renewable energy added to the grid, electricity costs are lowered by $100/MWh. A 2009 study by PJM also found that the development of 15,000 megawatts (MW) of low cost renewables such as wind energy could suppress wholesale electricity market prices in the region by $4.50 to $6.00/MWh by 2013. This would equal annual market-wide savings of $3.55 to $4.74 billion versus not having the renewable energy in place. Lastly, a study released by the Illinois Power Agency states that the addition of wind power to the electric grid lowered wholesale power prices, for a savings of more than $176 million. 

Solar Energy Update
Yet another mega-solar install powering Pennsylvania industry 
Aqua Pennsylvania, Inc. has completed a second solar installation at its largest water treatment facility in Pickering, Pa. The 1.8 MW installation includes over 7,500 photovoltaic panels across 6.5 acres. The company received a $1.5 million grant from the Commonwealth Financing Authority toward the $6.5 million project.

The Pickering solar installation is the eighth largest in the state. Governor Tom Corbett, who attended the ribbon cutting for the solar project, offered a few remarks on solar in the state. "It's an honor to be involved in the ribbon cutting for the eighth-largest solar power installation in Pennsylvania," said Corbett. "This is a great example of how solar power can fit into our overall energy strategy, and is proof of Aqua Pennsylvania's forward-thinking commitment to their local communities."

The new project will reduce grid-tied usage by 2.3 million kWh annually, and will result in a savings of $207,000 per year. Aqua Pennsylvania’s 1 MW solar installation at the Ingram’s Mill treatment plant in East Bradford Township was built in 2009. As of April 25, 2012, the total installed solar capacity in Pennsylvania is 141 MW, comprised of 5,747 installations.

Energy Efficiency Update
Extension of Pennsylvania energy savings law under review
The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) is currently reviewing public comments on the future of Act 129, the state’s energy savings law. Phase I of Act 129 requires Pennsylvania electric utilities to reduce their overall electricity load by 1 percent by May 31, 2011 and 3 percent by May 31, 2013, and to reduce peak demand by 4.5 percent by offering electric customers a portfolio of cost-effective energy efficiency and conservation programs. The PUC has the authority to continue Act 129 after May 31, 2013 if it finds that programs have been cost effective to electric customers.

The Act 129 Statewide Evaluator has begun this process by conducting a Baseline Study and a Market Potential Study, both due in early May, detailing the cost effectiveness of the programs. In addition, the PUC issued a Secretarial Letter on March 1, 2012 requesting comments on various topics pertaining to the future of Act 129 including the calculation of future savings goals, length of future programs, timing, and the continuation of demand response programs, to name a few.

PennFuture submitted comments in response to the Secretarial Letter, focusing on the need to create a seamless transition into the next Phase of Act 129; to allow for utilities that meet their 2013 goals ahead of schedule to bank excess savings for future compliance years; and to ensure that future savings goals remain strong with at least a one percent annual electricity consumption savings target. The PUC is expected to issue its Tentative Implementation Order on the next Phase of Act 129 on May 10, 2012.

PennFuture commends the PUC for starting the process of extending Act 129 well before the statutory deadline of November 30, 2013, which will help prevent a blackout period for these cost-saving programs.

Pennsylvania earns high marks for industrial energy efficiency
According to a recently-released ACEEE report, Pennsylvania ranked third in total spending for 2010 on industrial energy efficiency projects. These projects reduce emissions while proving to be one of the most cost-effective means for lowering consumer energy bills.

Spending on industrial energy efficiency totaled $1 billion in 2010 and that figure is expected to grow.The report defines industrial energy efficiency to include spending as incentives and rebates, grants, loans, technical assistance, and energy audits. Utilities tasked with using ratepayer funds to make cost-effective energy efficiency investments often find that the industrial sector can bring about the largest electricity savings at the lowest cost. 

Pennsylvania, spending $64.8 million, came in third after New York ($192.9 million) and California ($1442.5 million). Pennsylvania’s industrial energy consumption was 1,071,772 BBTU in 2009, bringing in program spending per BBTU at $60. Industrial energy efficiency program spending was comprised of funding from the state, nonprofits, utilities, public benefit funds, and The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

Small businesses cashing in on energy efficiency
The Department of Energy (DOE) recently announced $9 million in available funding that will allow small businesses to advance innovative energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies. The funding is expected to support approximately 50 small businesses.

The DOE’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy is offering the funding through the Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer programs. Eligible topic areas include advanced manufacturing, energy-efficient buildings, biomass, hydrogen and fuel cells, solar energy, wind, and water power technologies. Small businesses selected will receive up to $150,000 in initial funding to pioneer clean energy concepts. Successful projects will have the opportunity to compete for $1 million in additional funding.

Alternative Transportation Fuels
Natural gas and electric vehicles
The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) will hold a forum May 31 at Drexel University in Philadelphia to discuss the increased use of electric and natural gas vehicles in the state.  Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Michael Krancer, Department of Transportation Secretary Barry Schoch, and all five PUC commissioners will be presiding.

Guiding questions have been posted in the appendix of the Secretarial Letter issued for the event. These preliminary questions include (1) Beyond the incremental vehicle costs, what is the primary obstacle to the success of the natural gas vehicle (NGV) market in Pennsylvania?; (2) What lessons have been learned from prior NGV endeavors?; (3) What role, if any, should the Commission or electric distribution companies play in the education of consumers or permitting, installing, maintaining, and inspecting of electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE)?; and (4) What type of net-metering and/or ancillary service opportunities do electric vehicles present for consumers? A final agenda for the forum will be posted sometime in May.

The forum hopes to pinpoint how the PUC can cultivate policies and regulatory frameworks that are closely aligned with investments in natural gas and electric vehicles as well as related infrastructure. The Secretarial Letter further explained that the forum would not consider issues outside of the PUC’s jurisdiction, such as vehicle technology and environmental impacts.

The PennFuture Energy Center has broad experience with, and knowledge of, PUC proceedings and comment submittals. If you have questions, concerns, or require assistance, please contact Evan R. Endres at the PennFuture Energy Center.

E15 biofuels blend — coming soon to a car near you?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved its first applications in April for registering ethanol to make E15. The EPA approved the 15 percent blend in October 2010 for passenger vehicles MY 2007 and later. In early 2011, the EPA approved E15 for use in MY 2001-2006.

In preparation for bringing E15 to the American market, the EPA completed a study on the health effects of the blended gasoline and approved a mitigation plan for misfueling. Several hurdles remain before E15 can be sold in the U.S.

Hybrids and electric vehicles pump up the volume
Total vehicles sales in the U.S. were up 13 percent in March, closing out the best sales quarter since 2008. With higher average gas prices projected throughout the summer, fuel economy is on the minds of many looking to purchase a new car.

According to the Wall Street Journal, the hybrid Toyota Prius ranked sixth in overall vehicle sales, and there are now over 35 hybrid vehicles on the market. The Chevrolet Volt saw a 123.8 percent increase in sales over February, with 2,289 vehicles being sold. This figure equaled the number of Volts sold during the first six months the car was in the marketplace. Chevrolet’s strong March sales figures  will allow the carmaker to resume production of its electric vehicle earlier than expected. Sales for the Nissan LEAF improved by 21 percent over February.  Keeping pace, Pennsylvania’s electric vehicle infrastructure continues to grow to support burgeoning demand.

Other Clean Energy News
DOE gives a thumbs up to H2O Power
The Department of Energy (DOE) has announced $5 million in available competitive funding through 2012 to address existing hydropower plant upgrades. With aging infrastructure a glaring need at facilities across the country, the DOE, as part of the larger Hydropower Advancement Project initiative, is keen to accelerate the improvement of these clean energy facilities. The upgrades, expected to occur at 40 facilities, will also create clean energy jobs.

Hydropower already supplies more than six percent of the nation’s electricity. According to a new report by DOE’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, hydropower at existing facilities could be developed to provide closer to 15 percent of the nation’s electricity. Hydropower, which provides reliable baseload power, affords flexibility to the grid.

A green light for green building legislation in Pennsylvania?
Legislation has advanced in both the Pennsylvania House and Senate that would require high-performance green building standards in many state-owned building projects. On January 25, the House approved House Bill 193 sponsored by Representative Kate Harper, R-Montgomery. The Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee earlier this month approved Senate Bill 1136 sponsored by Senator John Rafferty, R-Montgomery.
 
PennFuture is working with the Delaware Valley Green Building Council, the Green Building Alliance, the United States Green Building Council Central Pennsylvania Chapter, and the American Institute for Architects to get one of these bills enacted into law in 2012.
 
Buildings account for approximately 40 percent of energy use, 72 percent of electricity consumption, and 13 percent of water use. Studies show that the high-performance buildings in House Bill 193 and Senate Bill 1136 would lead to substantial savings in operating costs over the life of the buildings, saving taxpayers money on energy and water bills. These savings come from more efficient lighting, greater use of natural light, more efficient heating and cooling systems, better insulated walls and roofs, more efficient use of water, the use of systems that generate less wastewater, and the need to construct less water and wastewater infrastructure and capacity. High-performance buildings cause less pollution, generate less solid waste, and contribute to a healthier, more productive work environment for their occupants.

Penn a powerhouse when it comes to clean energy
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently announced the University of Pennsylvania as the winner of the 2012 College University Green Power Challenge. The school bested 72 institutions in claiming the award for the fifth consecutive year by purchasing over two hundred million kilowatt hours (kWh) of green power, or 48 percent of its total power purchases. Its clean energy use is equivalent to taking 27,000 cars off the road annually. A tip of the cap also goes to the other 16 Pennsylvania colleges and universities participating in the Challenge, more than from any state.

"By purchasing green power from renewable sources, these 17 Pennsylvania institutions are spurring the development of the nation’s green power market and reducing harmful air pollution," said EPA’s Mid-Atlantic Administrator Shawn M. Garvin. "Their commitment to renewable energy, especially at the University of Pennsylvania, is contributing to the growth in green jobs and a green economy."

The other 16 green power schools in Pennsylvania are Duquesne University in Pittsburgh; Dickinson College in Carlisle; Franklin & Marshall College in Lancaster; Haverford College in Bryn Mawr; Swarthmore College in Swarthmore; Gettysburg College in Gettysburg; Philadelphia University in Philadelphia; Drexel University in Philadelphia; Juniata College in Huntingdon; Eastern University in St. Davids; Allegheny College in Meadville; Bucknell University in Lewisburg; Mercyhurst College in Erie; Chatham University and Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh; and Marywood University in Scranton.

Events
Mark your calendar for Alternative Fuels Education Day at the State Capitol
Gasoline prices are expected to remain high in June and beyond as the summer driving season kicks into high gear. Harrisburg will consider proposed cuts to AFIG funding and the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) will weigh in on rules governing alternative fuels through May. There’s not a more opportune time than this to remind our lawmakers that Pennsylvania has a vibrant alternative fuels industry capable of saving consumers billions of dollars annually and creating thousands of jobs.

Join PennFuture on Monday, June 4 as we set the stage with an Alternative Fuels Education Day at the Capitol Building in Harrisburg. We’re making our presence known in the Capitol with room for ten exhibitors in the East Wing rotunda and space for six vehicles on Commonwealth Avenue. Display your alternative-fueled vehicle and pop the hood or let folks take it for a spin. Exhibit a charging or refueling unit. Provide a demonstration of your technology and then show off the company and employees that make it happen.

Setup is at 8:00 a.m. and exhibits will be open to the public, representatives, and staffers from 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. To register, contact Evan R. Endres or call 412-258-6687. Let us know if you need a table in the rotunda, a vehicle space, or both. There is no fee to participate or exhibit in this event.

Save the date for the PennFuture 2012 Clean Energy Conference!
Save the date! The PennFuture 2012 Clean Energy Conference will be held September 13-14 in Philadelphia. Join us as we work toward promoting the creation of a Mid-Atlantic clean energy hub. Registration will open soon and sponsorship opportunities are now available. Call Christina Simeone at 215-545-2013 for more information.

Review the conference agenda and prepare for two jam-packed days of working sessions and keynote addresses topped by a not-to-be-missed networking event (special guests!) and exhibitor showcase.

Social Media
What we’re saying on Twitter...
Small business wants govt investment in renewable energy technology http://bit.ly/Im7dPT They are the job creators--r u listening, Congress?

(Very) Short documentary: The Truth About Clean Energy Jobs http://bit.ly/IkZyAr Time to take back the narrative on clean energy.

Green Power Award winner! MT @DVGBC Great green schools news! Kensington H.S. for the Creative and Performing Arts in Philly...http://bit.ly/JrYd0j.

Solar needs cost parity w/utility-supplied power by 2016: @StandardSolar CEO http://wapo.st/JrW2cV The how/why ties into our work w/SunShot.

And in this corner ... MT @drgrist Climate denier campaigns have no effect on public opinion http://is.gd/yKqJUJ.

Keep up with the conversation! Follow us on Twitter @PFEnergyCenter. For more chatter that matters (and cool visuals), check out our Facebook page.