| Your input |
Your input is very important. Please fill out this short form so we can contact you for your input and add you to our mailing list. Thank you for your contribution to New Mexico's Green Economy. |
| New Mexico EDD |
Visit NM EDD | |
|
Welcome to the newletter of the New Mexico Green Economy Initiative, a project of the New Mexico Economic Development Department. This newsletter will be produced monthly.
Please forward to others you feel may be interested using the "Forward email" link at the bottom of this email. If you no longer wish to receive this newsletter, please click "SafeUnsubscribe" below.
|
|
eSolar / NRG / EPE announce 92MW NM solar plant
Governor Bill Richardson Announces Construction of
New Mexico's First Solar Thermal Power June 11,2009
92 Megawatt plant in Santa Teresa will turn state's green energy potential into reality, create jobs for New Mexicans
SANTA FE-Governor Bill Richardson today announced the construction of New Mexico's first solar thermal power plant, a 92 megawatt concentrating solar thermal facility in Santa Teresa. The Governor was joined at a press conference in Santa Fe by the three companies involved in the project- El Paso Electric, NRG Technologies, and eSolar. Work on the "New Mexico Suntower" project is scheduled to begin early next year.
"This cutting-edge facility will turn New Mexico's renewable energy potential into reality, and it will add a green boost to our economy," said Governor Richardson. "This keeps our state on the path toward efficiently utilizing our natural resources and moving us toward a clean energy economy. We are setting an example for the rest of the nation and sending a clear message that New Mexico will play a key role in developing the new energy economy."
Solar thermal power tower technology utilizes a field of mirrors to concentrate sunlight on receivers placed on top of towers that are about 180 feet tall. This allows liquid housed in the receivers to be heated to very high temperatures and produce super-heated steam, which then turns a turbine that produces electricity, similar to other power plants. There will be 32 mirror fields when the Santa Teresa plant is completed, consisting of approximately 390,000 tracking mirrors focused on 32 power towers.
"What we're highlighting here today is but one step in a journey that will require more steps and more renewable projects like this solar plant. This is the right step at the right time," said David Stevens, CEO of El Paso Electric.
"Governor Richardson's leadership has made New Mexico one of the best locations in the nation for developing solar energy. In addition to their obvious encouragement and support for increased renewable power, the state offers precisely the kind of renewable energy incentives and pro-business policies that the solar industry needs to grow rapidly into a major provider of clean energy for our families and our communities," said Michael Liebelson, Chief Development Officer, Low Carbon Technologies for NRG.
"This project is a marriage made in heaven-- bringing together the right solar resources with the right incentives and business policies, and the right technology. Together with NRG, we are working to usher in the next generation of renewable energy power generation, and we are incredibly excited to accelerate the deployment of solar energy in New Mexico and across the United States," added eSolar CEO Bill Gross.
The project will create 220 green construction jobs in Southern New Mexico, and will provide more than 20 permanent, full-time jobs when the plant is fully operational.
|
| NM First Energy Economy Town Hall
Energy town hall calls for changes in transmission, workforce education, and regulation
Citizens also want more emphasis on energy efficiency and research
Albuquerque, NM, May 14, 2009 - New Mexicans want a state that is a global leader in diversified energy production, including renewable and conventional energy sources. They also want a public education system that can train the energy workforce, as well as a transmission system that will carry power from where it is produced to where it is needed. They see the need for a regulatory structure that is streamlined and fair. These recommendations and others resulted from a New Mexico First statewide town hall attended by 200 people and held in Albuquerque May 14-16. The town hall produced a total of 17 recommendations, each reflecting the consensus of the participants.
The event, titled "Growing New Mexico's Energy Economy," brought together a wide range of citizens from over 30 New Mexico communities. They came from small, medium, and large towns representing business, education, environment, youth, and government interests.
"We had an amazing group of committed citizens at the energy town hall," said Heather Balas, president of New Mexico First. "They recognized that conservation is critical, while also focusing on New Mexico's potential to be a world-class producer of both conventional and renewable energy."
The town hall also called for:
- Investments in research in all areas of conventional and renewable energy technology, including storage and algae-based biodiesel
- Public awareness on energy conservation
- Increased use of efficient building codes
- Energy rates that are fair to utility companies, average consumers, and low-income users
- Development of new power plants, both renewable and conventional
- A comprehensive state energy plan
The town hall recommendations will be advocated to state and local leaders by an Implementation Team comprised of volunteers from the event. A full report on the results of the town hall will be released in about two weeks and will be posted at www.nmfirst.org.
|
Clean Energy Jobs Up 50% in NM Over the Past Decade
"The Pew Charitable Trusts report illuminates how the clean energy economy is a strong and important part of New Mexico's and America's economy," said Governor Bill Richardson (D-N.M.). "The Pew report is a welcome analysis that details the core clean energy economy and the important role that policy plays in driving growth. Over the past six years, my Administration has pursued clean energy policies ranging from a strong renewable portfolio standard to a robust set of clean energy tax incentives. For America to lead the global clean energy economy we need Congress to follow the lead of states like New Mexico and pass comprehensive policies that spur innovation and economic growth."
Washington, DC - 06/10/2009 - The number of jobs in America's emerging clean energy economy grew nearly two and a half times faster than overall jobs between 1998 and 2007, according to a report released today by The Pew Charitable Trusts. Pew developed a clear, data-driven definition of the clean energy economy and conducted the first-ever hard count across all 50 states of the actual jobs, companies and venture capital investments that supply the growing market demand for environmentally friendly products and services.
Pew found that jobs in the clean energy economy grew at a national rate of 9.1 percent, while traditional jobs grew by only 3.7 percent between 1998 and 2007. There was a similar pattern at the state level, where job growth in the clean energy economy outperformed overall job growth in 38 states and the District of Columbia during the same period. The report also found that this promising sector is poised to expand significantly, driven by increasing consumer demand, venture capital infusions, and federal and state policy reforms.
America's clean energy economy has grown despite a lack of sustained government support in the past decade. By 2007, more than 68,200 businesses across all 50 states and the District of Columbia accounted for about 770,000 jobs.
By comparison, the well-established fossil-fuel sector-including utilities, coal mining and oil and gas extraction, industries that have received significant government investment-comprised about 1.27 million workers in 2007.
"The clean energy economy is poised for explosive growth," said Lori Grange, interim deputy director of the Pew Center on the States. "These jobs are driving economic growth and environmental sustainability at a time when America needs both. There is a potential competitive advantage for federal and state policy leaders who act now to spur jobs, businesses and investments in the clean energy sector."
Pew's definition of the clean energy economy is based on research and input from experts in the field, including an advisory panel convened to help guide the study. According to Pew, "a clean energy economy generates jobs, businesses and investments while expanding clean energy production, increasing energy efficiency, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, waste and pollution, and conserving water and other natural resources." It comprises five categories: (1) Clean Energy, (2) Energy Efficiency, (3) Environmentally Friendly Production, (4) Conservation and Pollution Mitigation, and (5) Training and Support. The definition provides a groundbreaking framework for tracking jobs, investments and economic growth over time and allowing the public and private sector to evaluate the effectiveness of policy choices and investments.
The report finds that the emerging clean energy economy is creating well-paying jobs in every state for people of all skill levels and educational backgrounds. Included in Pew's definition are jobs as diverse as engineers, plumbers, administrative assistants, construction workers, machine setters, marketing consultants, teachers and many others, with annual incomes ranging from $21,000 to $111,000.
The private sector views the clean energy economy as a significant and expanding market opportunity. Venture capital investment in clean technology crossed the $1 billion threshold in 2005 and continued to grow substantially, reaching a total of about $12.6 billion by the end of 2008. In 2008 alone, investors directed $5.9 billion into American businesses in the clean energy economy, a figure that represents a 48 percent increase over 2007 investment totals and accounts for 15 percent of all global venture capital investments.
Federal and state lawmakers also see the sector as helping to spur America's economic recovery and protect the environment. States will receive a major infusion of federal funds through the recently enacted American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which allocates nearly $85 billion in direct spending and tax incentives for energy- and transportation-related programs. Additionally, every state offers some form of financial incentive to drive its clean energy economy. Twenty-three states have adopted regional initiatives to reduce the global warming pollution from power plants, 46 states offer some form of tax incentive to encourage residents and corporations to use renewable energy or adopt energy efficiency systems and equipment, and 29 states and the District of Columbia have established renewable portfolio standards, which require electricity providers to supply a minimum amount of power from renewable energy sources.
"There is bipartisan support and a growing market demand for transitioning to the clean energy economy," said Phyllis Cuttino, director, U.S. Global Warming Campaign, at the Pew Environment Group. "Americans understand the transition is good for the overall economy, is creating new opportunities for jobs and business growth, and helps protect our national security by reducing our dependence on foreign oil. Congress and the Obama Administration can and must produce energy and global warming legislation that creates jobs, enhances energy independence and sustains our environment."
|
Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Report
Bernalillo, NM May 26, 2009 - Despite the tough economy, New Mexico is making some progress in some key measures of entrepreneurship, according to a recently completed market research effort targeted at identifying strengths and gaps in the New Mexico entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The purpose of the New Mexico Ecosystem Report was to objectively examine the New Mexico ecosystem from an economic and entrepreneurial perspective and determine existing strengths and persistent gaps. It was funded and published by the McCune Charitable Foundation and New Mexico Community Capital.
According to Owen Lopez, Executive Director of the McCune Charitable Foundation and former NMCC board president, "The study reinforced that New Mexico's ability to compete in the global economy depends on the talents of our workers, the innovation of our entrepreneurs, and the investments we make to build a high-skill economy of the future."
Dr. Beverlee McClure, President & CEO of ACI and a member of the group who planned and oversaw the research project adds: "We see this as an excellent starting point from which we can launch the next phase of implementation. "This report provides an excellent framework for statewide recommendations from which we can together begin on the most important implementation phases. "
The report recommends some of the following actions.
- make use of a range of strategies to increase competitiveness, including investing in good schools, physical and human capital, and home- grown businesses, and making sure that economic benefits are shared widely across communities
- strengthen entrepreneurial training - while some significant training programs have been developed the availability, coordination and connection of these programs needs to be improved. The most significant opportunity to make an immediate difference in New Mexico may center around establishing a coordinated, statewide entrepreneurial training system by taking the best pieces of the excellent efforts that are either emerging or already exist at community colleges, small business incubators, SBDC's and universities. Entrepreneurs reported that they need still need help from systems that foster entrepreneurship and nurture entrepreneurs; facilitate networking among entrepreneurs; and integrate entrepreneurs more with the mainstream community.
- avoid over-reliance on tax incentives - while the state's incentives were noted as a significant primer to industry growth, over-dependency will create a significant loss once incentives dry up.
- emphasize efforts to increase or shift the amount of funding directed at the seed and mezzanine stage ventures. The data indicated the increasing importance of seed, mezzanine and angel capital to the state's next crop of growth companies, especially as the financial crisis has dried up many forms of financing requisite for ecosystem growth.
- strengthen our base of experienced mid- and senior-level managers. Without exception business leaders and entrepreneurs noted this as a significant barrier to growing companies in the state. In the study, 67 percent of the respondents noted this undersupply of experienced leaders and entrepreneurs as one of their chief concerns.
- accelerate our public policy efforts to nurture the growth of job creating entrepreneurial small businesses.
- nurture industry clusters that show the highest growth potential. The date indicates that over the past few years, New Mexico has shown improvement in the creation of industry clusters, a key indicator of entrepreneurial vitality. However these industries were lower- growth clusters that have shown little potential to significantly boost the economy. According to the study, the strongest current potential for significant clusters exists in alternative energy, life sciences and digital media.
- New Mexico Ecosystem Report employed 50 in-person interviews, an online survey of over 400 individuals across every stakeholder region and category, and an extensive review of existing secondary data about the New Mexico ecosystem.
The final report is organized around the logic of an ecosystem consisting of six- interrelated elements: industry, capital, talent, government, education and technology commercialization, which include 'everything it takes to make startup companies successful'. The full report is available for download at: http://www.nmccap.org. Printed copies of the report are available by calling NMCC (505) 924-2820 or e-mailing annette@nmccap.org. |
|
Ultra-green manufactured homes to be built in New Mexico
KNOXVILLE - From its bamboo floors to its rooftop deck, Clayton Homes' new industrial-chic "i-house" is about as far removed from a mobile home as an iPod from a record player. Architects at the country's largest manufactured home company embraced the basic rectangular form of what began as housing on wheels and gave it a postmodern turn with a distinctive V-shaped roofline, energy efficiency and luxury appointments.
Stylistically, the "i-house" might be more at home in the pages of a cutting-edge architectural magazine like Dwell, an inspirational source, than among the Cape Cods and ranchers in the suburbs.
The layout of the long main "core" house and a separate box-shaped guestroom-office "flex room" resemble the letter "i" and its dot. Yet Clayton CEO and President Kevin Clayton said "i-house" stands for more than its footprint.
With a nod to the iPod and iPhone, Clayton said, "We love what it represents. We are fans of Apple and all that they have done. But the 'i' stands for innovation, inspiration, intelligence and integration."
Clayton's "i-house" was conceived as a moderately priced "plug and play" dwelling for environmentally conscious homebuyers. It went on sale nationwide Saturday with its presentation at the annual shareholders' meeting of investor Warren Buffett's Berkshire-Hathaway Inc. in Omaha, Neb.
"This innovative 'green' home, featuring solar panels and numerous other energy-saving products, is truly a home of the future," Buffett wrote to his shareholders. "Estimated costs for electricity and heating total only about $1 per day when the home is sited in an area like Omaha."
Maryville, Tenn.-based Clayton Homes, acquired by Berkshire-Hathaway in a $1.7 billion buyout in 2003, delivered 27,499 mobile or manufactured homes last year, a third of the industry total. Kevin Clayton thinks the "i-house" very quickly could represent more than 10 percent of its business.
"I think in 12 to 18 months it is possible," he told The Associated Press. "That is a lofty goal, but it is very possible. Retailers are saying they want the home on their lots tomorrow. I know the demand is there. How fast we capture it is really just determined by how affordable we can make it."
Production trims costs
Clayton Homes plans to price the "i-house" at $100 to $130 a square foot, depending on amenities and add-ons, such as additional bedrooms. A stick-built house with similar features could range from $200 to $300 a square foot to start, said Chris Nicely, Clayton marketing vice president.
The key cost difference is from the savings Clayton achieves by building homes in volume in green standardized factories with very little waste. Clayton has four plants in Oregon, Tennessee, California and New Mexico geared up for "i-house" production.
A 1,000-square-foot prototype unveiled at a Clayton show in Knoxville a few months ago was priced around $140,000. It came furnished, with a master bedroom, full bath, open kitchen and living room with Ikea cabinetry, two ground-level deck areas and a separate "flex room" with a second full bath and a second-story deck covered by a sail-like canopy.
"It does not look like your typical manufactured home," said Thayer Long with the Manufactured Housing Institute, a Washington-based group representing 370 manufactured and modular home-building companies.
And shattering those mobile home stereotypes is a good thing, he said. "I think the 'i-house' is just more proof that the industry is capable of delivering homes that are highly customizable at an affordable price."
Options in design
The "i-house's" metal V-shaped roof, inspired by a gas-station awning, combines design with function. The roof provides a rainwater catchment system for recycling, supports flush-mounted solar panels and vaults interior ceilings at each end to 10½ feet for an added feeling of openness.
The Energy Star-rated design features heavy insulation, 6-inch-thick exterior walls, cement board and corrugated metal siding, energy-efficient appliances, a tankless water heater, dual-flush toilets and lots of "low-e" glazed windows.
The company said the prototype at roughly 52,000 pounds may be the heaviest home it has ever built.
The final product will come in different exterior colors and will allow buyers to design online, adding another bedroom to the core house, a second bedroom to the flex room or rearranging the footprint to resemble an "L" instead of an "I."
The company sees the "i-house" as a primary residence that also could appeal to vacation home buyers.
Three developers already have inquired about building mini-developments with the "i-house."
|
|
$37M for NM Clean Energy Projects
Governor Richardson Announces New Mexico to Award Roughly $37 Million in Funding for Clean Energy Projects Statewide
State Seeks Applications for State Energy Program and the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant Program Santa Fe - Governor Bill Richardson and the New Mexico Office of Recovery and Reinvestment announce that funding from the U.S. Department of Energy hrough the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act will be awarded to demonstration energy projects through a Request for Application (RFA) process. The Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department manages programs receiving the funding - the State Energy Program and the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant Program - through its Energy Conservation and Management Division. Approximately $37 million in total funding will be available for this solicitation and for future requests that will be issued later this summer. "We've just completed our statewide listening tour to help make communities aware of funding opportunities through the federal stimulus program. This is an opportunity for New Mexico's public entities, municipalities and counties to apply for funding designed for projects that promote clean energy and invest in energy efficiency," said Governor Richardson. The RFA's purpose is to solicit applications for demonstration projects that:
- Increase energy efficiency to reduce energy costs and consumption for consumers,
businesses, and government;
- Generate renewable energy;
- Reduce reliance on imported energy;
- Improve the reliability of electricity and fuel supply and the delivery of energy services;
- Reduce the impact of energy production and use on the environment;
- Demonstrate energy efficiency and clean energy technologies in New Mexico while also
reducing energy use, controlling operational costs, and reducing greenhouse gas
emissions; and
- Preserve and create jobs.
"These grants will provide from $50,000 to $500,000 to competitively-selected projects," said Joanna Prukop, Cabinet Secretary for Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department. "We are excited about these energy-saving opportunities and want to encourage those qualified to
apply for funding that will reduce their energy costs and increase conservation gains."
The Demonstration Energy Projects Program provides competitive grants to public entities for
projects that achieve one or more of the above objectives in building projects, transportation projects, energy-related community projects, and energy education projects, or combinations thereof. These projects may include use of renewable energy (solar, wind, biomass, geothermal)
and clean-burning transportation fuels (compressed natural gas, propane, electricity, hydrogen, cellulosic ethanol, methanol, biodiesel). Project funding is contingent upon state plan approval and receipt of funding from DOE.
For the State Energy Program funding under this RFA, only public entities including public schools (K-12), local governments such as municipalities and counties, state agencies, colleges and universities, and Indian tribes and pueblos are eligible to apply and compete. Successful
Applicants may subcontract all or parts of their projects as specified in their Applications and in compliance with the New Mexico Procurement Code. Other funding opportunities for the public and private sectors will be available through RFAs and Requests for Proposals that will be issued later this summer.
For Block Grant funding under this RFA, all New Mexico municipalities and counties are eligible to apply and compete. Sixty (60) percent of the block grant awards must be awarded to entities that did not receive direct awards from the U.S. Department of Energy. The entities that received direct awards are: all of New Mexico's tribes and pueblos; the 10 largest cities (Albuquerque, Las Cruces, Rio Rancho, Santa Fe, Roswell, Farmington, Alamogordo, Clovis, Hobbs, and Carlsbad); and the 10 largest counties (Bernalillo, San Juan, Doña Ana, Sandoval, McKinley, Santa Fe, Valencia, Rio Arriba, Grant, and Taos). However, these entities may apply for block grant awards from the remaining 40 percent of the funds.
The deadline for application submittals is 4:00 PM Mountain Daylight Time, Friday, June 26, 2009. The complete RFA containing detailed information is available at NMORR's website at www.recovery.state.nm.us/agencies/emnrd.html and at www.CleanEnergyNM.org (click on the American Recovery and Reinvestment Information link in the right navigation). A free webinar to help guide potential applicants through the application process will be hosted by the Energy Conservation and Management Division on Monday, June 1, from 2:00-3:30 PM. Webinar information and a registration link are also provided on the websites.
|
| NM Green Grid Demonstration Proposals
The State of New Mexico Green Grid Initiative team will officially close out the deadline for submission of Green Grid/Smart Grid project proposals at COB, Friday, June 5th. (Only communities/entities with a utility partner may submit a proposal by email to stephan.helgesen@state.nm.us) Working groups will review all proposals for inclusion in the State's initiative on June 8th. These groups will be working to qualify the projects for the State of New Mexico draft plan. The official Department of Energy requirements for the 'smart grid' (Green Grid) demonstration grants will be issued on June 17th at which time the process for proposal writing will begin, and end thirty days later.
|
| NM Weighs 7 Green Grid Proposals
SmartGridToday
New Mexico is considering folding into its "green grid initiative" seven different projects, each involving a utility of some stripe and most of which are photovoltaic (PV) based, Stephan Helgesen, director of the Office of Science & Technology in the New Mexico Economic Development Dept, told us last night.
Representatives from New Mexico's Research Applications Center and the office of New Mexico Gov Bill Richardson met for several hours yesterday to discuss the seven proposals after the applicants met a Friday deadline.
"Of all the meetings we've had in the last six months, it was the most heartening for us because it showed us that all of the work we've done to extend the hand of the state was taken up," he added, by firms that are all expressing a willingness to collaborate with each other.
Preliminary estimates show that the seven projects would, in total, cost more than $200 million including a Japanese "international energy park" project (SGT, May-07).
Japanese technical experts are set to visit New Mexico next week as part of the state's ongoing effort with the New Energy & Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO).
"We'll be learning where each of our technologies and experience can be brought to bear not only potentially for a Japanese project in the state but also for Japanese interaction" in projects dominated by US companies doing business in New Mexico, Helgesen said.
New Mexico is hoping "very much that the 50% match [in DOE's guidelines on grants for regional smart grid demos] is revised," so that DOE will cover more than half of the cost of the projects it chooses, said Helgesen.
Richardson joined several governors and other stakeholders in complaining to DOE about the caps the administration had proposed for smart grid matching grants -- and those caps were raised significantly (SGT, May-19) determined this last set of choices, he said.
New Mexico has 17 energy cooperatives, a number of municipal utilities and traditional utilities, including Xcel Energy, El Paso Electric and PNM. "We've had conversations with all of them," Helgesen said, declining to specify which are involved in the seven project plans reviewed yesterday.
New Mexico has for nine months had dozens of people working on its "green grid initiative." The state sees itself as "the ideal test bed for certain technologies because of environmental and topographical conditions ... and as a leader, especially for the southwestern United States, primarily in the area of solar," Helgesen told us. In addition to PV, New Mexico is interested in testing solar thermal and concentrated solar power for application to the smart grid, he added.
One proposed project involves geothermal and another incorporates wind and a biomass component, revealed Helgesen.
The Research Applications Center plans to act as "an honest broker of technology and financial assistance, whenever possible," rather than as a daily project manager, Helgesen told us last month (SGT, May-05).
New Mexico will require that some of the projects beef up their cyber security thresholds to reflect that the state takes "the issue of cyber security very seriously," he added.
To be sure, New Mexico is "not trying to establish cookie-cutter solutions" for complex situations involving rural, urban, residential and C&I energy customers, Helgesen noted. "It doesn't want to dumb down any one project but rather raise it up to the level where it's competitive with those in other states."
And, while New Mexico is eager for projects it puts forth in its regional demo project to satisfy DOE requirements for smart grid solutions, it also wants to create lasting energy-sector jobs in the state. Ideally, jobs created in the design-and-build phase will become "the root system" for the growth of jobs that not only require advanced technical skills and pay accordingly but also "attract additional investment to the state."
|
Upcoming Events
Empowering the Land is the only conference of its kind in the nation specifically designed to match landowners, ranchers, and developers with industry leaders in the rapidly emerging, renewable energy sector. RENEW 09 is designed to be a "nuts & bolts" conference that is packed with "actionable" information on how you can best capture wind, sun and other alternative energy sources to reap an economic return. Building on the success from 2008, RENEW 09 will offer a 2-day renewable energy expo, where you can meet companies, government agencies, and economic development organizations that are providing products, services, and funding for renewable energy development. You can network with hundreds of colleagues who are leasing land to wind or solar development, schools that have installed wind turbines on their grounds, and businesses that are reaping economic rewards from solar installations on their roofs. Viva Verde Expo - June 26-28, 2009, Silver City, NMViva Verde strives to connect people with the ever-expanding world of green goods, information, resources and services found right here in Southern New Mexico. Our goal is to build community, promote local green businesses and showcase sustainable solutions related to Food, Energy, Home, Transportation and Economy that will help individuals do their part to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and minimize their impact on the planet.
The Next Big Idea - July 17-18, 2009, Los Alamos, NM
Next Big Idea: Festival of Discovery, Invention, and Innovation is an annual event that highlights Los Alamos' unique creative heritage while providing an opportunity for inspiring young people from throughout the state about possible futures in science, technology, engineering, math, and innovation. The weekend of family friendly events (at a cool, 7200 feet) is designed to educate, illuminate, inspire, and entertain by celebrating discoveries, inventions, ideas, and innovations in science, technology, arts, food, and music. Next Big Idea will take place this year on July 18, 2009 in downtown Los Alamos.
|
|
UDALL AND LUJÁN APPLAUD CHU'S DECISION TO CHANGE SMART GRID GUIDELINES
WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Tom Udall and U.S. Representative Ben Ray Luján applauded the decision by Energy Secretary Steven Chu to change how funding for Smart Grid initiatives will be allocated under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). On May 8, Udall and Luján sent a letter to Secretary Chu asking him that that funding under the Smart Grid Investment Program be made available in amounts larger than $20 million, with state and local partners required to contribute less than 50 percent of a funded project's cost. Today, the Department of Energy announced that they are increasing the maximum award available under the Recovery Act for Smart Grid programs. The DOE's final guidelines for the Smart Grid grant programs have not yet been released, but the maximum award available under the Smart Grid Investment Grant Program will be increased from $20 million to $200 million, and the maximum award available under the Regional Smart Grid Demonstration Projects will be increased from $50 million to $100 million. "Secretary Chu's decision recognizes that smaller states with big ideas like New Mexico should continue to aggressively pursue initiatives that will help revolutionize America's energy infrastructure," said Udall. "For years, our state has been at the forefront of bold new energy innovations and the Secretary's reassessment will help us create new jobs by developing a Smart Grid program that will save consumers' money and improve our energy security." "Developing a clean energy economy in New Mexico will create jobs, improve efficiency, and save families money," said Luján. "New Mexico has the resources to be a leader in a clean energy economy, and these changes to the Smart Grid guidelines will benefit our state and give us a fair chance to benefit from the Department of Energy Smart Grid grant program that allows greater innovation and investment. I am glad that the Department of Energy considered our concerns and established guidelines that will help New Mexico to develop a robust and efficient Smart Grid." A Smart Grid would help develop a clean energy economy that reduces our dependence on foreign oil, save families money by improving energy efficiency, and increase the use of renewable energy. Innovative Smart Grid technologies allow for two-way communication between consumers and power suppliers and real-time efficient management of electricity supply and demand.
|
$90M in loan guarantees for rural electric coops
Friday, June 5, 2009
WASHINGTON -New Mexico's Congressional delegation today announced that three rural electric cooperatives that serve New Mexico will be receiving more than $90 million in guaranteed loans to help build and improve electricity distribution lines.
"The loans approved today will help expand electrical services to more New Mexicans," said Senator Jeff Bingaman. "I am pleased the federal government is making this important investment in our state."
"These funds will put New Mexicans to work ensuring that rural communities in our state maintain reliable access to electricity," said Senator Tom Udall. "This assistance is essential to preserving the economic security of rural New Mexico."
"In the 2nd Congressional District a good part of our power comes from Rural Electric Cooperatives so this funding is especially critical to keeping the lights on in southern New Mexico," said Representative Harry Teague. "This funding will also help bolster our economy by creating jobs improving our current distribution lines as well as building hundreds of miles of new lines."
"Electric cooperatives are a bright idea for rural New Mexicans," said Representative Martin Heinrich. "These funds will provide jobs and a consumer-focused approach to reliable and technologically advanced electric services to rural New Mexicans."
"Rural electronic cooperatives provide a valuable and needed service for many New Mexicans," said Representative Ben Ray Lujan. "This investment in our rural electric infrastructure will help our rural electric cooperatives to better serve thousands of New Mexicans and help improve our economy."
Lea County Electric Cooperative will receive $34,865,000 to serve 1,404 consumers by building 167 miles of new distribution lines, making improvements to 33 miles of lines and making other system improvements. Continental Divide Electric Cooperative, Inc., which covers Cibola County and parts of McKinley, Sandoval, Bernalillo and Valencia counties, will receive $19,862,000. The loans will be used to serve 1,937 customers by building 240 miles of new distribution lines, making improvements in 28 miles of existing lines and making other system improvements. Finally, Arizona Electric Power Cooperative, Inc., which serves Hidalgo and Grant counties through Duncan Valley Electric Coop, Inc., received $36,032,000 to finance generation system improvement projects.
Rural electric cooperatives were developed after the Great Depression to extend access to electricity into rural areas. They operate according to seven principles, including democratic member control, concern for community and voluntary and open membership. Continental Divide and Lea County cooperatives are managed by community-based boards of directors elected by the cooperatives' members. |
| Rural Energy for America Program
Dear Sir/Madam:
We are providing you with the attached funding notice which indicates that we are accepting applications for Fiscal Year (FY) 2009 under the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) for the following purposes:
- to purchase renewable energy systems, which is energy derived from wind, solar, renewable biomass, geothermal, ocean (including tidal, wave, current, and thermal), or hydroelectric source; or hydrogen derived from renewable biomass or water using wind, solar, ocean (including tidal, wave, current, and thermal), geothermal or hydroelectric energy sources; and/or
- to make energy efficiency improvements; and/or
- to assist in the completion of energy audits and renewable energy development.
The REAP web site is located at: http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/farmbill/index.html. This program is designed to assist farmers, ranchers and rural small businesses. All agricultural producers, including farmers and ranchers, who gain 50% or more of their gross income from the agricultural operations are eligible. Small businesses that are located in a rural area can also apply. Rural electric cooperatives may also be eligible for assistance. To be eligible, an applicant must be actively involved in the business and the proposed project. An applicant must also show a "demonstrated financial need" for grant funding. The definition of "small business" is based on the Small Business Administration's criteria based on the type of business. SBA small size standards can be found at: http://sba.gov/size/index.html. "Rural" means a community of fewer than 50,000 people not located within a larger metropolitan area.
Funding is available in the form of grants, guaranteed loans, and grant/guaranteed loan combinations subject to the guidance provided in the attachment. Only grants are available to conduct renewable energy system feasibility studies. Questions concerning this program should be directed to Jesse Bopp at (505) 761-4952 or our main office number at (505) 761-4953 or by e-mail at Jesse.bopp@nm.usda.gov.
Complete applications under this notice must be received by the appropriate USDA Rural Development State Office by no later than 4:30 PM local time July 31, 2009.
|
CREB and QECB bonds
Clean Renewable Energy Bonds (CREB) and/or New Clean Renewable Energy Bonds (NCREB), and/or Qualified Conservation Energy Bonds. Please see the attached CRS reports for a discussion on these funding mechanisms.
The Clean Renewable Energy Bond (CREB) program is administered by the Department of Treasury/Internal Revenue Service and provides bond authorization for public entities on a competitive basis for renewable projects.
Clean Renewable Energy Bonds (CREB) $1.6 billion included for the Clean Renewable Energy Bonds. Agency: U.S. Department of Treasury Description: To allow cities, counties, and electric cooperatives to use bonds to finance renewable energy and energy efficiency projects. Website: Applications available from IRS ( http://www.irs.gov/) Qualified Energy Conservation Bond $2.5 billion included for the Qualified Energy Conservation Bond. Agency: U.S. Department of Treasury Description: Gives authority for which cities, counties, and electric cooperatives can compete to finance programs and initiatives designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Website: Applications available from IRS ( http://www.irs.gov/)
For additional information on these bonds, please examine the following:
Clean Energy Bonds Expanded by the Economic Stimulus Act
+++++
+++++
IRS Opens Application Process for Clean Renewable Energy Bonds
(Information provided by Senator Udall's office.) | |
Albuquerque: Top 10 Place to Live
"In selecting our Best Places to Live for 2009, U.S. News took a thrift-conscious approach: We looked for affordable communities that have strong economies and plenty of fun things to do. The cities we selected are as distinct as America itself--ranging from a quaint suburb to a live-music mecca. But whether you prefer hiking through the Rocky Mountains, pulling a fish out of the Atlantic Ocean, or grilling hot dogs at a college football tailgate, here are 10 places that will fill up your daybook without emptying your wallet. "
1. Albuquerque, N.M.
2. Auburn, Ala.
3. Austin, Texas
4. Boise, Idaho
5. Durham, N.C.
6. La Crosse, Wis.
7. Loveland, Colo.
8. San Luis Obispo, Calif.
9. St. Augustine, Fla.
10. Upper St. Clair, Pa. |
Seeking green news
Send us information on green businesses around the state
Each month, this newsletter will highlight news from green businesses and initiatives around New Mexico. Please forward press releases, accomplishments, awards and other notable news for possible inclusion. This is a great way to get the word out and begin to strengthen the green business community across New Mexico. We can also include short profiles of green businesses around the state. Please make contact if you would like your business to be considered for a profile.
| |
|
|
The New Mexico Green Economy Initiative is a project of the New Mexico Economic Development Department in cooperation with Governor Richardson's Green Jobs Cabinet. This Cabinet was created in recognition of the important role the Green Economy can play in New Mexico. The Cabinet will be providing a report to the Governor in August 2009 on opportunities for green, clean energy and clean technology, rural and urban economic development and jobs statewide. More information can be found on our website.
Sincerely,
|
Brendan Miller
Green Economy Manager
| |
|
