Energy Newslinks - Rochester, NY area

RochesterEnvironment.com

These NewsLinks represent a decade of ferreting out local online NewsLinks to the issue of Energy in our area.

The more recent stories are on the top and oldest at the bottom of this list. GOT AN ENVIRONMENTAL STORY ABOUT THE ROCHESTER, NY AREA FROM A CREDIBLE SOURCE? SEND IT TO ME! Looking for something specific. Use Control + F and search for it on this page.

And, although many of these links no longer work, I believe that it is important to be able to find that these stories have existed for ferreting out existing or impending environmental problems. The repercussions of pollution or overuse of a resource often takes a long time for us to recognize and when we finally do, it is invaluable to be able to track the history of various issues before they found a tipping point and became a crisis. Students, scientists, historians, and citizens alike should benefit from being able to follow the thread of an issue back through time.

2010

World Environment News - Obama Aide Urges Listing Of Gas-Drilling Chemicals - Planet Ark President Barack Obama's top environmental adviser urged the natural gas industry on Tuesday to disclose the chemicals it uses in drilling, warning that the development of massive U.S. shale gas reserves could be held back otherwise. Joseph Aldy, special assistant to the president for energy and the environment, said concerns about water contamination from drilling chemicals could lead to states requiring disclosure and that could deter additional investment. Planet Ark {more on Energy in our area]
Campus Times - Biodiesel wins national award The efforts of UR students to find a solution to a common environmental obstacle were rewarded when their project, UR Biodiesel, received the Excellence in Innovations for Sustainability Award by the Association of College Unions International (ACUI). (March 4, 2010) Campus Times [more on Energy in our area]
ENERGY: The nuclear option - News Articles - Rochester City Newspaper The 1979 core meltdown at Three Mile Island, outside of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, so scared Americans that no new nuclear plants have been built since. It wasn't due to some official prohibition or anything like that. Instead, the plants just got too expensive to build. (March 3, 2010)Rochester NY News, Events, Restaurants, Music, Entertainment, Nightlife - Rochester City Newspaper [more on Energy in our area]
Shale Rules Will Effect Rochester Rocks | ROCHESTER, NY (WXXI) - The State of New York is now working on adopting new rules for drilling natural gas, and could release them later this year. (March 2, 2010) WXXI | Go Public. [more on Energy in our area]
New Yorkers’ Drilling Comments Are In … Now What? - ProPublica When New York State's environmental agency came out with a draft environmental review of drilling [1] in the Marcellus Shale in September, it set off a flurry of action for environmentalists, industry advocates and the general public. (February 26, 2010) ProPublica - Journalism in the Public Interest [more on Energy in our area]
$40 million in stimulus funding announced for state energy program projects ALBANY – A total of $40 million federal stimulus funding has been awarded to New York municipalities, public schools, universities and colleges, hospitals and not-for-profit agencies to support 118 energy conservation projects. The energy efficiency, renewable energy and clean fleet projects will reduce energy and operating costs by $13.5 million annually and fully return the initial investment in just under 7 years. Region 6 – Rochester/Genesee $2,082,595 (March 2, 2010)New York State News on the Net! [more on Energy in our area]
New York improves net metering for ‘45 by 15’ drive The state of New York has amended its net metering laws in a renewed bid to draw 45 percent of its electricity needs from energy efficiency and renewables by 2015. The new rule will allow electricity customers with eligible renewable energy systems to sell back their excess electricity to their local utility. (March 1, 2010) GREEN NEWS - ECOSEED's Global Green News Portal [more on Energy in our area]
Spills of drilling chemicals worry experts | theithacajournal.com | The Ithaca Journal DRYDEN -- Two chemists and an endocrinologist spoke Tuesday night about the science and potential health effects of unconventional natural gas drilling to roughly 100 people at Tompkins Cortland Community College. (February 23, 2010) theithacajournal.com | The Ithaca Journal | Ithaca news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Ithaca, NY [more on Energy in our area]
Marcellus drilling creates new world | theithacajournal.com | The Ithaca Journal Much has been written, and will continue to be written, about the Marcellus shale; on one side about how much money and jobs it will bring, and on the other, about how much environmental damage may result. But this battle of words, being waged by gas development's proponents and opponents, is mostly speculative. There is probably some truth as well as exaggeration coming from both sides, but the argument may be missing the point. Here in Susquehanna County we are beginning to experience the reality - and the reality is very disheartening. (February 23, 2010) theithacajournal.com | The Ithaca Journal | Ithaca news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Ithaca, NY [more on Energy in our area]
Naples family saves $600 switching to solar - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow Last year, 24 solar panels installed on the roof of his wine building — near the two-story farmhouse he shares with his wife, Shirley — began producing electricity. While the entire system, which includes some cable and monitoring boxes, intrigued him, it was a bill he got in July that really tickled his fancy. “I got a got a credit of $180,” Bruan said. (February 23, 2010) Home - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow [more on Energy in this area]
Congress Launches Investigation Into Gas Drilling Practices - ProPublica Two of the largest companies involved in natural gas drilling have acknowledged pumping hundreds of thousands of gallons of diesel-based fluids into the ground in the process of hydraulic fracturing [1], raising further concerns that existing state and federal regulations don't adequately protect drinking water from drilling. (February 19, 2010) ProPublica - Journalism in the Public Interest [more on Energy in our area]
Energy company: Well wouldn’t have been threat | PULTENEY — Chesapeake Energy’s withdrawal of its permit application to store wastewater from natural gas drilling in a town of Pulteney well was not due to environmental concerns or vocal opposition to the project. William M. Fowler, the company’s environmental and regulatory affairs director, outlined the reasons for the withdrawal in Feb. 16 letters to the state Department of Environmental Conservation and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (February 21, 2010) Finger Lakes Times Online - Front [more on Energy in our area]
Gas drillers find welcome mat in New York state | Reuters BINGHAMTON, New York (Reuters) - New York landowners whose properties sit on the gas-rich Marcellus Shale are pushing back against calls for greater environmental regulation, saying it has halted the U.S. gas drilling boom at the New York border. Their concerns have opened a new front in the gas drilling wars, in which environmentalists and neighbors opposed to seeing gas wells in their back yards have put a drag on the exponential growth of onshore U.S. natural gas production (February 17, 2010) Business & Financial News, Breaking US & International News | Reuters.com [more on Energy in our area]
Schumer: Biodiesel Plant At Risk | A Wayne County business is hoping for a federal tax incentive to be re-instated. Senator Charles Schumer stopped by Northern Biodiesel in Ontario on Thursday. It's the only biodiesel plant in New York. (February 19,2010) http://rochesterhomepage.net/ [more on Energy in our area]
Possible mass radiation exposure investigated - The Globe and Mail The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission says as many as 217 workers may have been exposed to radioactivity at the Bruce nuclear power station on the shores of Lake Huron while refurbishing a reactor in late November. It is believed to be one of the largest mass exposures to radiation at a Canadian nuclear site. The station operator, Bruce Power, said a preliminary review of the radiation exposure indicates no one received an excessive dose. The company is taking the incident "very seriously," said John Peevers, a Bruce spokesman, while cautioning that "all indications are that there is nothing there approaching the regulatory limit" for radiation. (February 17, 2010) News from Canada and the world - The Globe and Mail [more on Energy in our area]
Plan to send fracking wastewater near Keuka Lake is abandoned | theithacajournal.com | The Ithaca Journal Next Page 1 | 2 Previous Page A contentious plan to locate a wastewater disposal site in the Steuben County town of Pulteney is officially dead, although the company that proposed the project is leaving the door open for similar facilities in the future. (February 16, 2010) theithacajournal.com | The Ithaca Journal | Ithaca news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Ithaca, NY [more on Energy in our area]
Pulteney officials, residents rally against waste plan | stargazette.com | Star-Gazette If Chesapeake Energy goes forward with plans to create a wastewater disposal facility in the town of Pulteney, it will face overwhelming public opposition. The big question, however, is if the plan is still viable. Chesapeake Energy indicated last week that it would not pursue plans to build the facility, in part because it has other ways to handle wastewater from the natural gas exploration process known as hydraulic fracturing, or hydrofracking. (February 14, 2010) http://www.stargazette.com/ [more on Energy in our area]
PSC approves energy efforts | Rochester Business Journal New York business news and information Tariff filings from six utilities participating in a net metering initiative—including Rochester Gas and Electric Corp. and New York State Electric & Gas Corp.—were approved Thursday by the state Public Service Commission. (February 11, 2010) Home | Rochester Business Journal New York business news and information [more on Energy in our area]
Cutting-edge clean power technologies now eligible for net metering ALBANY – The State Public Service Commission Thursday approved tariff filings of the six investor-owned utilities in New York to encourage the installation of residential micro-combined heat and power (micro-CHP) and fuel cell electric generating systems that will enable homeowners to sell excess power to the utility. The utilities participating in this net metering initiative include Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation, Consolidated Edison Company of New York, Inc., National Grid, New York State Electric & Gas Corporation, Orange and Rockland Utilities, Inc., and Rochester Gas and Electric Corporation. (February 12, 2010) New York State News on the Net! [more on Energy in our area]
EPA launches Marcellus Shale watchdog program | theithacajournal.com | The Ithaca Journal Uncle Sam's chief environmental agency is launching a citizens' watchdog program to help track water pollution and waste disposal related to natural gas production from the Marcellus Shale. The number: (877) 919-4372. Information about the program (February 11, 2010) http://www.theithacajournal.com/ [more on Energy in our area]
Hess prepping massive gas-drilling operation in Wayne and Susquehanna, Pa. counties | theithacajournal.com | The Ithaca Journal Hess Corp., once a major prospect for natural gas development in Broome County, has set its sights south of the New York and Pennsylvania border. (February 10, 2010) http://www.theithacajournal.com/ [more on Energy in our area]
New Gas Drilling Rules, More Staff for Pennsylvania’s Environmental Agency - ProPublica For months, the gas drilling industry and environmentalists alike have been fixated on New York, waiting for its environmental agency to hash out final drilling regulations so companies can take advantage of the vast gas reserves buried there. (February 9, 2010) ProPublica - Journalism in the Public Interest [more on Energy in our area]
Hundreds turn out to oppose wastewater facility - Corning, NY - The Corning Leader The estimated population of Pulteney is about 1,300. At times Sunday it looked like every one of them was crowded into the Pulteney Fire Hall to discuss the proposed plan to deposit contaminated wastewater in a former natural gas well. More than 300 people came to hear a panel discuss the plan. Chesapeake Energy approached Pulteney officials last fall about the plan to dump the wastewater, which is generated from the hydrofracking process, into a well about a mile west of Keuka Lake. (February 8, 2010) Homepage - Corning, NY - The Corning Leader [more on Energy in our area]
Gillibrand's goal: 10 million solar systems in New York - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow Canandaigua, N.Y. — Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand introduced legislation this week to encourage the installation of 10 million solar systems on the rooftops of homes and businesses over the next decade. (February 06, 2010) Home - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow [more on Energy in our area]
Pure waters: Well for gas waste poses 'very high risk' to watershed Letter urges stringent regulations | GENEVA — The Seneca Lake Pure Waters Association is expressing “deep concerns” about a proposal to inject the wastewater resulting from proposed hydraulic fracturing drilling for natural gas into a well in the Finger Lakes area. (February 5, 2010) [more on Energy in our area]
02/03/2010: Obama Announces Steps to Boost Biofuels, Clean Coal WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama today announced a series of steps his Administration is taking as part of its comprehensive strategy to enhance American energy independence while building a foundation for a new clean energy economy, and its promise of new industries and millions of jobs. At a meeting with a bipartisan group of governors from around the country, the President laid out three measures that will work in concert to boost biofuels production and reduce our dangerous dependence on foreign oil. (February 3, 2010)U.S. EPA Newsroom - News Releases [more on Energy]
Suffolk to experiment with solar carports HAUPPAUGE - Suffolk County Executive Steve Levy announced legislative approval of an agreement with a California-based wind and solar project developer for the installation of solar carports in as many as seven major county parking lots. (February 2, 2010) New York State News on the Net! [more on Energy in our area]
Historic” solar energy project announced ALBANY – Governor David Paterson announced a new clean energy project that will more than quintuple the amount of solar energy currently produced in New York State, and will foster the development of solar technologies, support public sustainability efforts and stimulate the economy with new clean energy jobs throughout the State. (February 1, 2010) New York State News on the Net! [more on Energy in our area]
02/02/2010: EPA and DOE Join States to Speed Energy Efficiency Progress in the United States WASHINGTON – As part of the Obama Administration’s commitment to increasing energy efficiency and reducing costs, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced today the creation of the State Energy Efficiency (SEE) Action Network. This network is meant to help states achieve maximum cost effective energy efficiency improvements in homes, offices, buildings and industry by 2020. Strengthening energy efficiency initiatives across the country helps to save money and protect the environment at the same time. (February 2, 2010) U.S. EPA Newsroom - News Releases [more on Energy in our area]
President Obama Sets Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Target for Federal Operations | The White House Target to Drive Energy Cost Reductions in Federal Operations, Creating Clean Energy Jobs WASHINGTON, DC – President Barack Obama today announced that the Federal Government will reduce its greenhouse gas (GHG) pollution by 28 percent by 2020. Reducing and reporting GHG pollution, as called for in Executive Order 13514 on Federal Sustainability, will ensure that the Federal Government leads by example in building the clean energy economy. Actions taken under this Executive Order will spur clean energy investments that create new private-sector jobs, drive long-term savings, build local market capacity, and foster innovation and entrepreneurship in clean energy industries. (January 29, 2010) The White House [more on Climate Change in our area]
Methane pipeline proposed After initial cost, Seneca Meadows project would bring free gas to schools SENECA FALLS — Seneca Meadows District Manager Don Gentilcore publicly introduced plans Monday for a methane gas pipeline that could potentially deliver free energy to the school district. (February 2, 2010) Finger Lakes Times Online - Front [more on Energy in our area]
Vermont nuke plant: 27th of 104 US reactors with known leaks of radioactive tritium - chicagotribune.com MONTPELIER, Vt. (AP) — Radioactive tritium, a carcinogen discovered in potentially dangerous levels in groundwater at the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant, has now tainted at least 27 of the nation's 104 nuclear reactors — raising concerns about how it is escaping from the aging nuclear plants. (February 1, 2010) Chicago Tribune breaking news, sports, weather and traffic in Chicago - chicagotribune.com [more on Energy in our area]
Clean-diesel buses added to RGRTA fleet as a result of stimulus money | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle The Rochester region will be getting clean-diesel buses, thanks to a $12.2 million grant via the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. The Rochester-Genesee Regional Transportation Authority took shipment of 50 buses in late 2009, and $1.34 million of those stimulus funds will go to the 2009 bill, according to Jacqueline Halldow, spokeswoman for the RGRTA. The buses, made by Gillig Corp. of California, burn diesel in a cleaner manner than older models. They arrive as ridership is up. (February 1, 2010) [more on Energy in our area]
Pennsylvania’s Gas Wells Booming—But So Are Spills - ProPublica As more gas wells are drilled in Pennsylvania's Marcellus Shale, more cases of toxic spills are being reported. Earlier this month, Pennsylvania's environmental officials fined Pennsylvania-based Atlas Resources after a series of violations at 13 wells, including spills of fracturing fluids and other contaminants onto the ground around the sites. And just last week the agency fined M.R. Dirt, a company that removes waste from drilling sites, $6,000 for spilling more than seven tons of drilling dirt along a public road. (January 27, 2010) ProPublica - Journalism in the Public Interest [More on Energy in our area}
ENVIRONMENT: Plan to boost drilling monitors may not go far enough - News Articles - Rochester City Newspaper Governor David Paterson's 2010-11 proposed budget has some good news for the local environment, and some distressing news for state environmentalists. (January 27, 2010) Rochester City Newspaper [more on Energy in our area]
State seeks proposals for solar technology | Rochester Business Journal New York business news and information A request for proposals was issued Wednesday for developers of solar technologies to install up to 100 megawatts of photovoltaic systems that would convert solar energy into electricity, state officials said. (January 28, 2010) Home | Rochester Business Journal New York business news and information [more on Energy in our area]
Research Team Helps to Create the Next Generation of Solar Cells Professor Seth Hubbard earns Early Career Award from National Science Foundation | Solar cells are currently used in a host of high-grade applications and power numerous satellites and the space shuttle. Now, new advancements in nanotechnology are improving the efficiency of these power generators, which could ultimately increase their commercial use throughout society. (January 25, 2010) RIT - University News [more on Energy in our area]
Tompkins gas drilling concerns featured at Albany session ALBANY - Speaking on behalf of the Tompkins County Legislature, Chair Martha Robertson, as part of an Albany event, Monday, urged that Governor David Paterson withdraw the proposed document that would regulate natural gas drilling in the Marcellus shale. Last month, the Legislature, approving its official comments to the State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) without dissent, urged that the State reevaluate its review process and permit no drilling using the hydraulic fracturing technique until an adequate environmental review is completed. (January 26, 2010) New York State News on the Net! [more on Energy in our area]
Crowds sound off on Southern Tier gas drilling | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle ALBANY — It was the environment versus the economy in Albany Monday as hundreds of people for and against drilling in the Marcellus shale in the Southern Tier, Catskills and central New York brought their messages to the Capitol. (January 26, 2010) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York [more on Energy in our area]
Drilling opponents head to Albany for rally | GENEVA — Members of area environmental groups are invited to participate in a rally Monday in Albany with the goal of delaying natural gas drilling in upstate New York. The rally is scheduled to begin at 10:30 a.m. in the West Capitol Park on the west side of the State Capitol Building. (January 24, 2010) Finger Lakes Times Online - Front [more on Energy in our area]
In Syracuse, dozens rally against hydrofracking at Thornden Park's water tower | News from The Post-Standard - Syracuse, NY -- More than 60 people rallied against hydrofracking Tuesday night at Syracuse’s Thornden Park. With the park’s water tower as a background, participants at the “Rally for Water” sang, chanted, read aloud articles that criticized the technology meant to harvest natural gas from deposits such as those found in much of Upstate New York (January 19. 2010) Syracuse NY Local News, Breaking News, Sports & Weather - syracuse.com [more on Energy in our area]
Rep. Massa On Green Energy Grant For Rochester Institute Of Technology | All American Patriots: Politics, economy, health, environment, energy and technology 01/15/10 -- CORNING, NY - Today, Congressman Eric Massa announced a $454,810 National Science Foundation grant for the Rochester Institute of Technology to advance research into solar photovoltaics. All American Patriots: Politics, economy, health, environment, energy and technology | Dispatches from the depths of U.S. government (January 15, 2010) [more on Energy for our area]
National Grid renews Syracuse smart grid proposal | News from The Post-Standard - SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- National Grid is back with a $123 million proposal to install new high-tech electric meters at 39,400 homes and businesses in the Syracuse area in an effort to demonstrate the value of a next-generation “smart grid.” (January 19, 2010) Syracuse NY Local News, Breaking News, Sports & Weather - syracuse.com [more on Energy in our area]
Funding provided for renewable technologies ALBANY - The New York State Public Service Commission (Commission) today approved approximately $20.9 million in interim funding for the Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) program for the period January 1, 2010 through June 30, 2010. The money will fund incentives for solar photovoltaic (solar PV), anaerobic digester, fuel cell and small wind installations under the Customer-Sited Tier (CST) of the RPS program. Funding authorization for eligible new projects under the CST expired on December 31, 2009. (January 20, 2010) New York State News on the Net! [more on Energy in our area]
Interest runs high in gas-drilling plans - Utica, NY - The Observer-Dispatch The state Department of Environmental Conservation is one step closer to updating its guidelines for natural gas drilling in the region, and 12,000 people have something to say about that. In December 2009, the DEC closed its comment period on a natural gas drilling regulations draft, including a controversial practice that would be used to develop the Marcellus Shale located in an area just to the south of the Mohawk Valley. (January 16, 2010) Home - Utica, NY - The Observer-Dispatch [more Energy in our area]
Syracuse urges state DEC to ban hydrofracking in the Skaneateles Lake watershed | News from The Post-Standard - Syracuse, NY - Syracuse homeowners have spent at least $13 million over the past 16 years to keep Skaneateles Lake’s drinking water clean. (January 12, 2010) Syracuse NY Local News, Breaking News, Sports & Weather - syracuse.com [more on Energy in our area]
DEC commissioner: Gas spill reports misleading | stargazette.com | Star-Gazette The commissioner of the state Department of Environmental Conservation has asserted that reports of accidents related to natural gas drilling in New York have been overblown and taken out of context. In a letter to Assemblyman William Parment, D-150th, a member of the Environmental Conservation committee, DEC Commissioner Pete Grannis said that of the 270 incidents highlighted by an Ithaca researcher, more than half have nothing to do with natural gas drilling -- and they occurred while the DEC was overseeing 10,400 wells. ( January 11, 2010) stargazette.com | Star-Gazette | Elmira news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Elmira, New York [more on Energy in our area]
WXXI: Debate Continues Over Shale Plan (2010-01-12) ROCHESTER, NY (WXXI) - The massive plan to issue drilling permits in New York's Marcellus Shale is about the size of a phone book. It's the Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) attempt to lay the ground rules for drilling, and to figure out what effect horizontal drilling techniques will have on the environment. And just as the document has ballooned, so has the conversation around drilling. (January 12, 2010)WXXI | Go Public. [more on Energy in our area]
Zero Waste group: Gasification plant denied in Massachusetts - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow Canandaigua, N.Y. — Geneva-based Finger Lakes Zero Waste Coalition announced that the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection will not allow that state's city of Taunton, south of Boston, to construct a proposed gasification plant. (January 12, 2010) - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow [more on Energy in our area]
Rochester | 24 Hour Local News | TOP STORIES | Going Green: Solar power When we talk about using solar power, we tend to think big, like large photovoltaic arrays producing electricity but, how about using the sun directly, a solar hot water heater. In this case, a flat plate solar hot water heating system. (January 10. 2010) Rochester | 24 Hour Local News | TOP STORIES [more on Energy in our area]
Massa, Reed clash on drilling - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow MPNnow.com — Amid fears over potential natural gas drilling in the Finger Lakes region, Rep. Eric Massa, D-Corning, said Tuesday he supports “burning domestically produced natural gas” as an alternative to burning foreign oil. But first, he wants the state Department of Environmental Conservation to “start over again” on its regulations for such drilling using a controversial method called hydrofracking, which involves using huge amounts of water and chemicals to fracture the rock to release gas. (January 7, 2010) Home - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow [more on Energy in our area]
Nozzolio calls for hydrofracking impact study | GENEVA — State Sen. Michael F. Nozzolio, R-54, of Fayette, has asked the Finger Lakes Institute to study hydraulic fracturing drilling for natural gas and its possible impact on the Finger Lakes. Energy companies are anxious to use the drilling process, called “hydrofracking,” to obtain natural gas from a gas-rich area called the Marcellus Shale. (January 6, 2010) Finger Lakes Times Online - Front [more on Energy in our area]
Rochester | 24 Hour Local News | TOP STORIES | Ginna Powers Up After Mechanical Failure The Ginna Nuclear Power Plant was back up and running Tuesday after a mechanical failure last week. (January 5, 2010) Rochester | 24 Hour Local News | TOP STORIES [more on Energy in our area]
WXXI: Environmentalists Threaten Shale Suit (2010-01-04) MANHATTAN, NY (WXXI) - A lawsuit could be in the cards if the state doesn't drastically change its approach to natural gas development in the Marcellus Shale. That's according to the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) Monday. (January 4, 10) WXXI NewsRoom [more on Energy in our area]

2009

12/30/2009: EPA Submits Comments on New York State Marcellus Shale Natural Gas Drilling Environmental Impact Statement (New York, N.Y. ) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today submitted its comments to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation on its September 2009 draft Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS) on horizontal drilling and high-volume hydraulic fracturing in New York State. The draft environmental impact statement is required by the State Environmental Quality Review Act in order for the state to review and process permit applications for the horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing of natural gas bearing shales, including the Marcellus Shale. EPA’s comments were submitted during the public comment period on the dSGEIS, which closes on December 31, 2009. EPA’s comments can be found at http://www.epa.gov/region2/spmm/r2nepa.htm#r2letters. (December 30, 09) U.S. EPA Newsroom - News Releases [more on Energy in our area]
E.P.A. Says New York Needs Closer Review of Natural-Gas Drilling - NYTimes.com The federal Environmental Protection Agency told New York State on Wednesday that it had major concerns about how proposed hydraulic drilling for natural gas would affect public health and the environment, and urged it to undertake a broader study of the potential impact. In formal comments on the state’s proposed regulations governing new natural gas drilling, the E.P.A. said it was particularly concerned about the regional water supply, air quality, wastewater treatment and radioactive materials that could be disturbed during drilling. (December 30, 09) http://www.nytimes.com/ [more on Energy in our area]
Ginna nuclear power plant shuts down with mechanical problem | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle The Robert E. Ginna nuclear power plant in Ontario, Wayne County, was shut down early Wednesday because of a mechanical problem. "There's no threat to public safety or our workers' safety," said Dave Joslin of Constellation Energy Nuclear Group, which operates the Ginna plant. (December 31, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York [more on Energy in our area]
Drilling Wastewater Disposal Options in N.Y. Report Have Problems of Their Own - ProPublica Environmentalists, state regulators and even energy companies agree that the problem most likely to slow natural gas drilling in the Marcellus Shale in New York is safely disposing of the billions of gallons of contaminated wastewater the industry will produce. (December 29, 09) ProPublica - Journalism in the Public Interest [more on Energy in our area]
As NY mulls hydrofracking regulations, gas companies lease land in CNY watersheds | News from The Post-Standard - But while the city of Syracuse spends about $750,000 a year to protect the lake and its water, the state is poised to allow oil and gas companies to use chemicals, sand and large amounts of water to drill for natural gas within the Skaneateles Lake watershed. The watershed is the area of land that feeds water into the lake from creeks, brooks and drainage ways. Companies hope to profit off the rich swaths of natural gas trapped deep in the shale underground. (December 25, 09) Syracuse NY Local News, Breaking News, Sports & Weather - syracuse.com [more on Energy in our area]
RIT and Delphi Inc. Receive Federal Support for Fuel Cell Initiative RIT and Delphi Inc. Receive Federal Support for Fuel Cell Initiative Congresswoman Louise Slaughter secures $1.6 million for joint research initiative Congresswoman Louise Slaughter has announced a $1.6 million grant for a joint program between Rochester Institute of Technology and Delphi Inc. that is developing fuel cell technology for Department of Defense power and transportation systems. (December 22, 09) RIT - University News [more on Energy in our area]
MARCELLUS SHALE: Kill the drill - News Articles - Rochester City Newspaper Some environmental groups are calling for the state to scrap a draft environmental document which, if approved, would pave the way for a particular method of drilling in the Marcellus and Utica Shales. The shales contain significant natural gas reserves and energy companies are eager to tap into them. But environmentalists are concerned that the drilling would pose a public-health risk and damage the environment. (December 23, 09) Rochester City Newspaper [more on Energy in our area]
Fresh slap at drilling rules -- Page 1 -- Times Union - Albany NY New York City opposes state plan to limit risks of natural gas extraction | ALBANY -- New York City joined a broad coalition of environmental groups Wednesday in calling for Gov. David Paterson to scrap proposed state rules on natural gas drilling and start over. (December 24, 09) Albany NY News - Times Union - Serving Albany, Saratoga, Schenectady, Troy [more on Energy in our area]
NYPA trustees approve expanded energy efficiency and sustainability efforts WHITE PLAINS—New York Power Authority (NYPA) President and Chief Executive Officer Richard M. Kessel today announced plans by the statewide public power utility to expand its energy services programs in support of ambitious goals set by Gov. David A. Paterson to improve energy efficiency in New York State, promote clean energy and advance environmental sustainability. (December 23, 09) New York State News on the Net![more on Energy in our area]
Tompkins Council of Governments comments on natural gas drilling ITHACA - The Tompkins County Council of Governments (TCCOG) added its official voice to concerns expressed regarding natural gas drilling in the Marcellus Shale. By unanimous vote, Thursday, the Council approved comments to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC), a document which closely mirrors official concerns expressed by the Tompkins County Legislature earlier this week. (December 18, 09) [more on Energy in our area]
RIT institute develops alternative energy sources | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle Nabil Nasr has a clear interest in the outcome of the U.N. climate summit in Copenhagen, slated to conclude today. The issues on the table, after all, relate to the mission of the Golisano Institute for Sustainability, which Nasr directs at the Rochester Institute of Technology. (December 18, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York [more on Energy in our area]
Watertown Daily Times | Digester eyed for shared use LOWVILLE — A group in Lewis County is working to bring to small farms the technology that allows methane from manure to be converted to usable energy. (December 17, 09) http://www.watertowndailytimes.com/[more on Energy in our area]
New York Energy Plan Promotes Gas, Solar and Wind Options - NYTimes.com A New York State board has recommended a plan intended to make energy more affordable, efficient and environmentally friendly while helping to create jobs over the next 10 years, officials said. The plan, released Tuesday by the State Energy Planning Board, is not binding, but Gov. David A. Paterson, who convened the board last year, said the recommendations will guide legislation he plans to pursue in the year ahead. “New York will lead the nation in the clean energy economy, and this state energy plan will help us get there,” Governor Paterson said in a statement. (December 15, 09) The New York Times - Breaking News, World News & Multimedia [more on Energy in our area]
Underused Drilling Practices Could Avoid Pollution - ProPublica As environmental concerns threaten to derail natural gas drilling projects across the country, the energy industry has developed innovative ways to make it easier to exploit the nation's reserves without polluting air and drinking water. (December 14, 09) [more on Energy in our area]
Stony Brook to lead state Energy Policy Institute ALBANY - The State University of New York at Stony Brook will lead the New York Energy Policy Institute (NYEPI), a key initiative from the Governor’s State of the State address. Working in partnership with Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and Syracuse University, this consortium will coordinate the work of New York’s leading energy research centers and experts and serve as a resource for the State’s policymakers. (December 15, 09) New York State News on the Net! [more on Energy in our area]
Politicians choose sides in Marcellus Shale drilling debate | pressconnects.com | Press & Sun-Bulletin Gov. David Paterson postponed it. State Assemblywoman Barbara Lifton wants to slow it down. Sen. Thomas Libous is for speeding it up. Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo is torn between extremes. (December 13, 09) pressconnects.com | Press & Sun-Bulletin | Binghamton news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Binghamton, New York [more on Energy in our area]
US Dept. of Energy says 'No' to Jamestown (ALBANY, NY)—On Friday, December 4th, the United States Department of Energy announced the agency’s second installment of Round 3 Carbon Capture and Sequestration (CCS) funding. Three projects received almost $1 billion in federal funds, but a hotly debated proposal in Jamestown, NY, was not among the projects funded. Environmental, health and energy groups have been fighting plans for the “clean” coal plant for years, noting the likely burden on Jamestown ratepayers, including the prohibitively high cost of power from the plant and the fact that the community can meet its energy needs more cheaply and cleanly. (December 7, 09) Environmental Advocates of New York - Press Releases 2009 [more on Energy in our area]
GOV SITE - GOVERNOR PATERSON ANNOUNCES FUNDING TO GROW 18 CLEAN ENERGY BUSINESSES IN NEW YORK Nearly $3 Million Awarded to Help Companies Expand Businesses, Commercialize Cutting-Edge Technologies and Create New Economy Jobs in New York Governor David A. Paterson today announced the award of $3 million to a variety of projects throughout New York. The funds will strengthen and support the growth of New York’s clean energy economy by helping 18 Empire State companies commercialize clean energy technologies. (December 8, 09) Press Releases [more on Energy in our area]
Tompkins environmental group urges conservation to reduce natural gas demand | theithacajournal.com | The Ithaca Journal Environmentalists are urging Tompkins County residents to "walk our talk" when it comes to opposing drilling for Marcellus Shale gas in the region. Sustainable Tompkins is calling on people to reduce the demand for natural gas used in heating, electricity generation and synthetic fertilizers. The organization intends to track the collective impact of individual actions through its Web site, sustainabletompkins.org, as part of the Marcellus Challenge campaign. (December 9, 09) theithacajournal.com | The Ithaca Journal | Ithaca news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Ithaca, NY [more on Energy in our area]
Shale Task Force still a possibility in Seneca WATERLOO — After shelving it in October, Seneca County supervisors may reconsider the idea of forming a Marcellus Shale Task Force. Environmental concerns about the natural gas drilling process called hydraulic fracturing or hydrofracking are prompting talk of a second look at a task force. (December 9, 09) Finger Lakes Times Online - Front [more on Energy in our area]
Congressman Lee Hosts First Energy Meeting Congressman Chris Lee, Republican 29th District ROCHESTER, NY (WXXI) - Congressman Chris Lee, a Republican whose district covers the western portion of New York, held his first meeting with energy leaders Monday at the Rochester Institute of Technology. (December 7, 09) WXXI | Go Public. [more on Energy in our area]
Dark Side of a Natural Gas Boom | Across vast regions of the country, gas companies are using a technology called hydraulic fracturing to produce natural gas from previously untapped beds of shale. The push has been so successful that the country’s potential gas reserves jumped by 35 percent in two years. The new supplies have driven down natural gas prices for consumers and might help the global environment by allowing more production of electricity from natural gas, which emits fewer global warming emissions than coal.The New York Times - Breaking News, World News & Multimedia [more on Energy in our area]
6,000 sign petition asking DEC to strengthen natural gas-drilling regulations | stargazette.com | Star-Gazette An Ithaca environmental activist and 6,000 other individuals and organizations asked the governor Tuesday to withdraw the state's newly drafted regulations on natural gas drilling, saying the state's entire regulatory framework needs to be strengthened before more drilling occurs. (December 8, 09) stargazette.com | Star-Gazette | Elmira news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Elmira, New York [more on Energy in our area]
Feds approve N.Y. appliance rebate | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle ALBANY — The U.S. Department of Energy announced Monday that it has approved New York's plan to give consumers rebates for purchasing energy-efficient appliances during President's Week in February. (December 8, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York [more on Energy in our area]
Tests show high concentration of radioactive waste in Marcellus | pressconnects.com | Press & Sun-Bulletin Radioactive waste from the Marcellus is an issue state regulators will have to anticipate as they draft new rules for tapping the massive natural gas (December 6, 09) pressconnects.com | Press & Sun-Bulletin | Binghamton news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Binghamton, New York [more on Energy in our area]
Green groups want drilling freeze -- Page 1 -- Times Union - Albany NY ALBANY -- A broad coalition of environmental groups wants Gov. David Paterson to scrap proposed rules on natural gas drilling and start over, this time with help from his former environmental deputy, Judith Enck, who this week started as a regional administrator for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (December 4, 09) Albany NY News - Times Union - Serving Albany, Saratoga, Schenectady, Troy [more on Energy in our area]
Environmentalists: Revise Gas Drilling Review? Nope – Repeal It! - ProPublica There's nearly a month left in a public comment period for an environmental review of natural gas drilling in New York, but environmentalists have gone beyond requesting changes to the document -- they're asking that it be repealed all together. (December 5, 09) ProPublica - Journalism in the Public Interest [more on Energy in our area]
Rock For Shaleshock Like many causes before them, Shaleshock has turned to rockers to raise awareness and money for its mission. Life is Water: A Concert to Defend the Finger Lakes Against Unsafe Gas Drilling is set for 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, at the State Theatre. The event will feature the talents of Donna the Buffalo, the Sim Redmond Band and The Horse Flies to spread the message of the Shaleshock Citizens Action Alliance - a grassroots group of Finger Lakes residents who are concerned with protecting our communities and environment from exploitation by the energy industry in drilling for natural gas in the Marcellus Shale. (December 2, 09) Ithaca Times [more on Energy in our area]
NY phasing in system to promote energy conservation | theithacajournal.com | The Ithaca Journal ALBANY -- New York is phasing in a new billing system for electric and gas delivery that guarantees utilities steady revenues even when sales fluctuate and that exposes customers to small surcharges or rebates in their monthly bills. (December 2, 09) theithacajournal.com | The Ithaca Journal | Ithaca news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Ithaca, NY [more on Energy in our area]
ENERGY: Huffing and puffing over wind power - News Articles - Rochester City Newspaper Did the federal government, as some have said, give millions of dollars in stimulus funds to a non-producing wind farm in the Southern Tier town of Cohocton? Not exactly. (November 2, 09)Rochester City Newspaper [more on Wind Power in our area]
U.S. falling behind in clean-energy race: Chu | Green Business | Reuters GREENVILLE, South Carolina (Reuters) - The United States is falling behind in the race for clean, renewable energy and risks losing its prominence in high-tech manufacturing, U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu said on Monday. (November 30, 09) Reuters.com - World News, Financial News, Breaking US & International News [more on Energy in our area}
Chesapeake Bay Journal: Marcellus Shale: Pipe dreams in Pennsylvania? - December 2009 A region is discovering that the price of the economic boom from natural gas drilling may be irreversible environmental damage and residents' peace of | When the natural gas companies descended on Pennsylvania's Marcellus Shale two years ago, it felt like a Gold Rush. And everyone seemed to be hitting pay dirt. Landowners, many in long-depressed regions, rushed to lease their property, betting the promised royalties would better their lot. Mayors rejoiced that restaurants and hotels were full after decades of barely hanging on. Legislators talked of thousands of new jobs. (December 2009) Chesapeake Bay Journal - The Chesapeake Bay Newspaper - December 2009 - Vol 19 - Num 9 [more on Energy in our area}
Lifton calls for full review of N.Y. drilling regulations | Assemblywoman Barbara Lifton, D/WF-125th Dist., is recommending a full review and revision of the state Department of Environmental Conservation regulations on oil and gas drilling in New York State. (November 30, 09) theithacajournal.com | The Ithaca Journal | Ithaca news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Ithaca, NY [more on Energy in our area}
Summit of local leaders discusses pros, cons of gas drilling | theithacajournal.com | The Ithaca Journal OWEGO -- Development of the Marcellus Shale, the largest natural gas resource in the country, has the potential of creating thousands of jobs, an economic development official said Monday. (November 30, 09) theithacajournal.com | The Ithaca Journal | Ithaca news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Ithaca, NY [more on Energy in our area}
LED Bulbs Save Substantial Energy, Study by Osram Finds - NYTimes.com Does the latest generation of energy-saving light bulbs save energy? A comprehensive study conducted by Osram, the German lighting company, provides evidence that they do. (November 29, 09) The New York Times - Breaking News, World News & Multimedia [more on Energy in our area]
WXXI: Informational Summit to be Held on Marcellus Shale Natural Gas Project (2009-11-30) - An informational summit is being held in the Southern Tier Monday afternoon on a major drilling project being considered for parts of the state. (November 30, 2009) WXXI NewsRoom [more on [more on Energy in our area]
Alternative fueling stations to come to Rochester, Monroe County | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle New places to fill up alternative-fuel vehicles are headed to Monroe County, and it's possible the public will have access to them. (November 30, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York [more on Energy in our area]
NREL: News Feature - NREL Uncovers Clean Energy Leaders State by State An exclusive state-by-state analysis by the U.S Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Laboratory shows that clean energy development is spreading rapidly throughout the country, often in conjunction with public policies designed to spur such growth. (November 20, 09) National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) Home Page [more on Energy in our area]
Four energy projects to share $88 million in federal stimulus money ALBANY - Four New York advanced-energy projects will receive more than $88 million in funding to support Smart Grid demonstration and energy storage projects through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. These projects were competitively selected with 28 other projects funded nationwide to help build a smarter, more efficient and more resilient electrical grid. New York strengthened the applications by pledging a 10 percent match or $8.8 million from New York’s Innovation Economy Matching Grants Program. In total, the awards of $620 million announced Tuesday by U.S. Secretary of Energy Steven Chu 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. (November 28, 09) New York State News on the Net! [more on Energy in our area]
ATTORNEY GENERAL CUOMO ANNOUNCES AGREEMENT WITH FORTUNA ENERGY ALLOWING N.Y. LANDOWNERS TO NEGOTIATE NEW NATURAL GAS LEASES Natural gas drilling company agrees to stop misleading tactics to unilaterally extend leases on New Yorkers’ properties Fortuna Energy, Inc. will allow hundreds of landowners out of the improperly extended leases and will pay $192,500 in settlement ALBANY, N.Y. (November 24, 2009) - Attorney General Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that his office has reached an agreement with Fortuna Energy, Inc. (Fortuna) that will allow customers who were misled and ended up extending their natural gas leases with the company to renegotiate their terms. The settlement also stops Fortuna from employing industry-prevalent misleading and deceptive tactics to secure leases from New York landowners. (November 24, 09) HOME - OFFICE OF THE NEW YORK STATE ATTORNEY GENERAL ANDREW M. CUOMO [more on Energy in our area]
NY Saves $3.1 Million In Energy Efficiency Program | ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) - Turning off lights, turning down the heat and buying with an eye toward energy efficiency is saving New York more than $3.1 million so far this fiscal year. Home - 13WHAM.com - Rochester News, Weather, and Sports [more on Energy in our area]
Gas-drilling oversight reconsidered; burden may not fall to counties | theithacajournal.com | The Ithaca Journal Who's going to pay to ensure local water wells are not polluted by Marcellus shale drilling? State officials said last week they are still trying to figure that out, but health departments in Tompkins and other counties may be off the hook. The state's proposal that would require local health departments to oversee gas drilling is being reconsidered in light of an order by Gov. David Paterson. (November 22, 09) theithacajournal.com | The Ithaca Journal | Ithaca news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Ithaca, NY [more on Energy in our area]
Marcellus Shale: 15 Pennsylvania families suing Cabot Oil over well pollution | theithacajournal.com | The Ithaca Journal DIMOCK, Pa. -- Fifteen families have filed suit against one of the nation's largest natural gas drillers, alleging the company polluted their water wells in northeastern Pennsylvania. (November 21, 09) theithacajournal.com | The Ithaca Journal | Ithaca news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Ithaca, NY [More on Energy in our area]
State urged to withdraw drilling regulatory plan ITHACA - At a four-hour-long Ithaca hearing, the State Department of Conservation repeatedly was urged to withdraw its proposed program to regulate natural gas drilling in the Marcellus shale underlying Tompkins County and surrounding regions of New York State. The Tompkins County Council of Governments (TCCOG) sponsored the session to focus discussion on the gas drilling issue and to increase the opportunity for local residents to submit comments to state regulators. (November 21-22, 2009) New York State News on the Net! More on Energy in our area}
GOV SITE - GOVERNOR PATERSON ANNOUNCES INTENTION TO ELIMINATE NEW LICENSE PLATE REQUIREMENT IF LEGISLATURE WORKS WITH HIM TO IDENTIFY REAL, RESPONSIBLE ALTERNATIVE SAVINGS MEASURES PRIOR TO RELEASE OF 2010-11 EXECUTIVE BUDGET Bill Strengthens New York’s Position to Access $454 Million in Federal Funds for Clean Energy Retrofits | Governor David A. Paterson, Congressman Steve Israel, and Legislative Leaders today announced the passage of the municipal clean energy loan program legislation. The Senate and Assembly passed the bill, which empowers communities to launch Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) loan programs, today during an extraordinary session of the Legislature. The legislation allows municipalities to leverage federal funds in order to provide loans to commercial and residential property owners to finance energy efficiency retrofits and renewable energy systems. Property owners could then opt into these programs and reap an immediate savings on their energy costs and repay their loans via an annual charge on their property tax bill. (November 16, 09) Press Releases (more on Energy in our area]
Additional Attention Given to Ginna Nuclear Plant - 13WHAM.com - Rochester News, Weather, and Sports Rochester, N.Y. – A federal agency is giving some attention to Ginna Nuclear Power Plant because of a maintenance issue. (November 13, 09) Home - 13WHAM.com - Rochester News, Weather, and Sports [more on Energy in our area]
Natural gas quest: Tompkins County planners skeptical drilling safeguards will be enforced | theithacajournal.com | The Ithaca Journal Tompkins County planners believe that some of the mitigation measures outlined in the state DEC's 809-page draft gas drilling environmental impact statement could be very useful -- if only they could count on such measures being enforced. (November 13, 09) theithacajournal.com | The Ithaca Journal | Ithaca news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Ithaca, NY [more on Energy in our area]
Watchdog: New York State Regulation of Natural Gas Wells Has Been "Woefully Insufficient for Decades." The New York-based Toxics Targeting went through the Department of Environmental Conservation’s own database of hazardous substances spills over the past thirty years. They found 270 cases documenting fires, explosions, wastewater spills, well contamination and ecological damage related to gas drilling. (November 11, 09) Democracy Now! | Radio and TV News [more on Energy in our area]
Is Marcellus Shale too hot to handle? -- Page 1 -- Times Union - Albany NY:2945: As New York gears up for gas drilling in the Marcellus Shale, state officials have made a potentially troubling discovery about the wastewater created by the process: It's radioactive. And they have yet to say how they'll deal with it. (November 8, 09) http://timesunion.com/ [more on Energy in our area]
Tompkins Council of Governments holds info session on natural gas drilling ITHACA - At an information meeting sponsored by the Tompkins County Council of Governments (TCCOG), citizens were told that the state’s proposed program to regulate natural gas drilling is complex, but that members of the public should not hesitate to make their voices heard on the issue and how gas drilling could affect the Tompkins County area. About 300 people attended the session, which came two weeks before a formal public hearing in Ithaca November 19, also sponsored by TCCOG, where the public will be invited to make formal verbal comments and provide written statements that TCCOG will submit to the state Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) on the draft Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS). The more than 800-page document is the State’s plan to regulate drilling for natural gas in the Marcellus shale underlying Tompkins County and surrounding regions. The DEC has now extended the public comment deadline to December 31, 2009. (November 5. 09) New York State News on the Net! [more on Energy in our area]
ENVIRONMENT: DEC extends shale comment period - News Articles - Rochester City Newspaper The state Department of Environmental Conservation today announced that it's extending the comment period for its new Marcellus and Utica Shales natural gas drilling regulations. The comment period will now end December 31, which adds a full month. (November 4, 09) Rochester City Newspaper [more on Energy in our area]
University of Rochester Professor Riccardo Betti advises Congress on Future of Fusion : University of Rochester News University of Rochester mechanical engineering Professor Riccardo Betti testified before Congress Thursday morning, touting recent achievements on the path to making fusion (the process by which the sun and other stars create energy) a reliable, plentiful, and efficient source of energy, and emphasizing the importance of the government's continued support of fusion research. (November 2, 09) University of Rochester: News [more on Energy in our area]
Health Issues Follow Natural Gas Drilling In Texas : NPR Vast new natural gas fields have opened up thanks to an advanced drilling technique. While natural gas is a cleaner burning fuel than coal or petroleum, extracting it is still hard, dirty work. Some people who live near the massive Barnett Shale gas deposit in north Texas, have complaints. Health and environmental concerns are prompting state regulators to take a closer look. (November 2, 09) Morning Edition : NPR [more on Energy in our area]
Congressman Maurice Hinchey (NY22) :: Press Release :: Congress Gives Final Approval To Hinchey Provision Urging EPA To Conduct New Study On Risks Hydraulic Fracturing Poses To Drinking Water Supplies Washington, DC - The U.S. House of Representatives today approved a provision authored by Congressman Maurice Hinchey (D-NY) that formally urges the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to conduct a new study on the risks that hydraulic fracturing poses to drinking water supplies. The Senate is due to pass the identical bill in the coming days and President Obama is expected to sign the measure into law soon after that. Earlier this week, members of the Interior Appropriations Conference Committee, including Hinchey, signed off on the Interior and Environment Appropriations bill and report for fiscal year 2010, which contains the study provision. (October 29, 09) Congressman Maurice Hinchey :: Representing the 22nd District of New York :: Welcome [more on Energy in our area]
GOV SITE - GOVERNOR PATERSON ANNOUNCES $24 MILLION IN STIMULUS FUNDING AWARDED TO STATE ENERGY PROGRAM PROJECTS Governor David A. Paterson today announced that $24 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funding has been awarded to support 87 energy conservation projects across New York that will help implement energy efficiency, renewable energy and clean fleet projects. These projects will reduce energy and operating costs by more than $6.5 million annually and fully return the initial investment in just over five years. Through these awards New York continues to invest in a clean energy economy and achieve Governor Paterson’s goal of meeting 45 percent of our energy needs through energy efficiency and renewable energy by 2015. (October 29, 09) Press Releases [more on Energy]
ENVIRONMENT: Shale drilling concerns evolve - News Articles - Rochester City Newspaper Diane Hope started tracking news stories about the Marcellus Shale two years ago. At first, she says, the stories were focused on energy and profit. The New York Times and the Wall Street Journal, for example, played up natural gas's potential as a cleaner fuel and as an economic benefit to struggling Appalachian communities. But after a few months, Hope, a communications professor at RIT, says she noticed a shift. (October 31, 2009)Rochester City Newspaper [more on Energy]
$24 million in stimulus funding awarded to state energy program projects ALBANY - Governor David Paterson announced that $24 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funding has been awarded to support 87 energy conservation projects across New York that will help implement energy efficiency, renewable energy and clean fleet projects. These projects will reduce energy and operating costs by more than $6.5 million annually and fully return the initial investment in just over five years. Through these awards New York continues to invest in a clean energy economy and achieve Governor Paterson’s goal of meeting 45 percent of our energy needs through energy efficiency and renewable energy by 2015. (October 30, 09) New York State News on the Net! [more on Energy in our area]
Gas company backs off drilling -- Page 1 -- Times Union - Albany NY:2640: Chesapeake Energy cites New York City watershed issue as it drops 5,000 acres Read more: http://www.timesunion.com/AspStories/story.asp?storyID=858901#ixzz0VK9zuHpS ALBANY -- A natural gas company's pledge not to drill in the Catskills source of the New York City drinking water reservoir system did little Wednesday to placate critics. Read more: http://www.timesunion.com/AspStories/story.asp?storyID=858901#ixzz0VK9fbiK2 (October 28, 09) [more on Energy in our area]
Opponents of hydrofracking to meet Thursday | News from The Post-Standard - Calling it “the biggest local environmental issue of our time," opponents of hydrofracking will meet at 4:30 p.m. Thursday at May Memorial Unitarian Universalist Society in Syracuse to find out more about the process to get more natural gas from rock formations that underlie parts of Central New York. (October 26, 09) Syracuse NY Local News, Breaking News, Sports & Weather - syracuse.com [more on Energy in our area]
New York Drilling Study a Step Forward - ProPublica New York's recently released review of the environmental risks [1] (PDF) posed by natural gas production in the Marcellus Shale offers the clearest picture yet of the chemicals used in the drilling process called hydraulic fracturing. The document makes public the names of 260 chemicals, more than eight times as many as Pennsylvania state regulators have compiled. The list is the most complete released by any state or federal agency and could help answer concerns about hydraulic fracturing in Congress and in states where gas drilling has increased in recent years. (October 22, 09) ProPublica - Journalism in the Public Interest [more on Energy in our area]
Irondequoit awarded $440,000 in federal energy stimulus funds - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow Irondequoit, N.Y. — Irondequoit officials will join Congressman Dan Maffei for a press conference Saturday morning at Irondequoit’s McAvoy Park, at the intersection of North Winton Road and Empire Boulevard. The topic is expected to be $440,000 in federal energy stimulus funds that have been awarded to the town to promote energy efficiency and conservation. (October 23, 09) - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow [more on Energy in our area]
Appliance rebate proposed to help consumers cut energy costs ALBANY - Governor David Paterson today announced that New York has submitted a plan for federal approval that would provide consumers with rebates for purchasing certain energy-efficient refrigerators, clothes washers, freezers and dishwashers through a program funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. If New York’s plan is approved by federal government, the Great Appliance Swap Out program will allow the State to issue nearly 170,000 rebates totaling $16.8 million. (October 17-18, 09) New York State News on the Net! [more on Energy in our area]
Energy Star Appliances May Not All Be Efficient, Audit Finds - WASHINGTON — The Energy Department has concluded in an internal audit that it does not properly track whether manufacturers that give their appliances an Energy Star label have met the required specifications for energy efficiency. (October 18, 09) http://www.nytimes.com/ [more on Energy in our area]
GOV SITE - GOVERNOR PATERSON PROPOSES APPLIANCE REBATE PROGRAM TO HELP CONSUMERS CUT ENERGY COSTS “Great Appliance Swap Out” to Provide Rebates for Energy Efficient Appliances Governor David A. Paterson today announcedthat New York has submitted a plan for federal approval that would provide consumers with rebates for purchasing certain energy-efficient refrigerators, clothes washers, freezers and dishwashers through a program funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). If New York’s plan is approved by federal government, the Great Appliance Swap Out program will allow the State to issue nearly 170,000 rebates totaling $16.8 million. (October 16, 09) Press Releases [more on Energy in our area]
ENVIRONMENT: Learning the natural-gas drill - News Articles - Rochester City Newspaper So if some energy companies want to punch natural-gas wells deep into a shale formation in the Southern Tier, why does it matter in Monroe County? Think water. (October 15, 09) Rochester City Newspaper [more on Energy in our area]
Pittsford graduate honored for ethanol project | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle When gas prices skyrocketed after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, Sujay Tyle, then 8, was shocked at how much they rose in such a short time. (October 16, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York [more on Energy in our area]
Partners in energy efficiency | stargazette.com | Star-Gazette Rochester Institute of Technology's partnership with Delphi Automotive of Rochester will help develop fuel-cell technology for military vehicles. (October 13, 09) http://www.stargazette.com/ [more on Energy in our area]
DEC Schedules Public Hearings on Marcellus Shale Drilling Draft SGEIS - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today announced details of upcoming public comment sessions on the draft Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement (SGEIS) governing potential natural gas drilling activities in the Marcellus Shale formation. The meetings will be held in Loch Sheldrake (Sullivan County) on Oct. 28, New York City on Nov. 10, and Chenango Bridge (Broome County) on Nov. 12. A fourth meeting is being planned for the Elmira-Corning area. Details on times and locations are listed below. (October 13, 09) Press Releases - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation [more on Energy in our area]
New York To Establish Energy Policy Institute New York Governor David A. Paterson announced the creation of the New York Energy Policy Institute (NYEPI) with a mission of coordinating the work of the state’s leading energy research centers to advise the state’s energy policymakers. (October 8, 09) Sustainable Business, Green Business, Renewable Energy, Organic & Green Investing, Green Capital [more on Energy in our area]
Solar energy projects get stimulus money ALBANY – Two solar energy projects will share in the award of $4.4 million. Hudson Valley Community College (HVCC) received $3.5 million to develop a new solar photovoltaic training facility that will provide critical support for Governor Paterson’s efforts to develop the clean energy workforce. Additionally, New York City received $932,508 to support development of solar electric generation. The awards were made by the U.S. Department of Energy with funds available through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). (October 12, 09) New York State News on the Net! [more on Energy in our area]
State to create energy institute, boost battery research | stargazette.com | Star-Gazette ALBANY -- Gov. David Paterson announced Monday the formation of a pair of groups aimed at improving the state's energy efficiency. The New York Battery and Energy Storage Technology Consortium, or NY-BEST, will distribute $25 million to researchers specializing in the development of batteries and energy storage devices. (October 11, 09) stargazette.com | Star-Gazette | Elmira news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Elmira, New York [more on Energy in our area]
Gas Drilling Vs. Drinking Water: New York City Consultant’s Report Sets Stage for Fight With Albany - ProPublica A preliminary report [2] from a consultant hired by New York City warns that "nearly every activity" associated with natural gas drilling could potentially harm the city’s drinking water supply and that while the risk can be reduced with strict regulations, "the likelihood of water quality impairment … cannot be eliminated [2]." (October 8, 09) ProPublica - Journalism in the Public Interest [more on Energy in our area]
GOV SITE - GOVERNOR PATERSON ANNOUNCES MAJOR EXPANSION OF NEW YORK.S SOLAR ENERGY $10 Million in Stimulus Funding Now Available through NYSERDA for Solar Projects NYPA Also Expected to Make Formal Request for Proposals this Year for 100-Megawatt Solar Power Initiative Governor David A. Paterson today announced that $10 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funding is now available through a competitive statewide solicitation for solar energy projects in New York State. The funding is available through NYSERDA's State Energy Program (SEP) to fund the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. Additionally, Governor Paterson announced that the New York Power Authority (NYPA) is expected to make a formal request for proposals later this year for a 100-megawatt solar initiative, which would increase the State's current installed solar capacity five-fold. (October 7, 09)Press Releases [more on Energy in our area]
Perinton awarded energy grant - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow Perinton, N.Y. — A $170,800 grant for energy efficiency is being given to the town of Perinton by the U.S. Department of Energy. (October 7, 09)Home - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow [more on Energy in our area]
Gas drilling coming to the Finger Lakes? - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow Canandaigua, N.Y. — The state released new environmental regulations last week for natural gas drilling, clearing the way for well permits in the Finger Lakes region. The largely untapped gas reserve, sweeping much of the state, has put many people on alert. Questions and concerns about what the drilling will mean for the environment and economy here have prompted a number of groups to join forces. (October 6, 09) [more on Energy in our area]
Focus of natural gas exploration in Pa., not N.Y. | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle Parts of Pennsylvania are in the midst of a gold rush of sorts, and the same forces behind it are eyeing New York next. democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York (October 4, 09) [more on Energy in our area]
DEC Proposes New Safety Measures, Mitigation Strategies to Govern Potential Marcellus Shale Drilling - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation Expanded Generic Environmental Impact Statement Released for Public Comment The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today released a draft of the Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement (SGEIS) governing potential natural gas drilling activities in the Marcellus Shale formation, Commissioner Pete Grannis announced. (September 30, 09) Press Releases - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation [more on Energy in our area]
Zero Waste group mounting fight vs. landfill - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow Canandaigua, N.Y. — A local opposition group is raising money to fight Ontario County’s plan to allow landfill operator Casella Waste Systems Inc. to do a pilot waste-to-fuel project at the county landfill. (September 30, 09)Home - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow [more on Energy in our area]
New York State Paves Way for Gas Drilling With Release of Environmental Review - ProPublica A long-anticipated draft environmental review laying out proposed laws for natural gas drilling in New York’s Marcellus Shale has been released by the state after 18 months of study and several delays. State officials say the guidelines, which are 809 pages long and extremely detailed [1], address key concerns, including the disclosure of fluids used in the drilling process known as hydraulic fracturing and the onsite handling of drilling waste. (September 30, 09) [more on Energy in our area] ProPublica - Journalism in the Public Interest
DEC proposes new Marcellus Shale drilling safety measures, mitigation strategies ALBANY - The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation released a draft of the Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement (SGEIS) governing potential natural gas drilling activities in the Marcellus Shale formation, Commissioner Pete Grannis announced, Wednesday. (October 1, 09) New York State News on the Net![[more on Energy in our area]
City of Rochester | City Awarded U.S. DOE Clean Cities Funding (Friday, September 25, 2009) – Mayor Robert J. Duffy is pleased to announce that the City of Rochester has been awarded $26,150 as part of the U.S. Department of Energy Clean Cities Alternative Fuel and Advanced Technology Vehicle Pilot Grant Program. The money, part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, will be used for six GEM electric vehicles for use at Mt. Hope and Riverside cemeteries and two compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles for use by the west-side parking monitors. (September 25, 09) City of Rochester [more on Energy in our area]
Jaywalking at the landfill? - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow Seneca, N.Y. — The Ontario County landfill would host a renewable-energy plant, generating electricity from solar and wind power, if $6.5 million in federal stimulus dollars pays for half the project. (September 26, 09) - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow [more on Energy in our area]
With Little Clout, Natural Gas Lobby Strikes Out : NPR Last in a three-part series There is almost a century's worth of natural gas in shale rock formations all over the country, enough to make a significant change in the debate about America's energy future. But as Congress moves toward writing a new national energy policy, natural-gas lobbyists have been mostly missing in action (September 24, 09) [more on Energy in our area]]
You have the power to save on energy bills : MoneySmart : The Buffalo News Most homes, including yours, waste energy. That inefficiency is costing you plenty, but it doesn’t have to, according to the editors of Consumer Reports. Buffalo News -- Home (September 21, 09) [more on Energy in our area]
Who's Looking At Natural Gas Now? Big Oil : NPR Second in a three-part series | In the energy world, Big Oil has long been the key player — with one notable exception: The natural gas business in the United States is dominated by small, independent companies. More than 80 percent of U.S. natural gas supplies are produced by companies with a market capitalization of less than $500 million. On average, these companies have only a dozen employees. (September 23, 2009) Morning Edition : NPR [more on Energy in our area]
Rediscovering Natural Gas By Hitting Rock Bottom : NPR First in a three-part series. | In recent years, natural gas producers in the United States have struggled, mostly in vain, to be taken more seriously in the energy world. (September 22, 09) Morning Edition : NPR [more on Energy in our area]
Wind, solar eyed for landfill Ontario County seeks stimulus funds to create renewable energy park CANANDAIGUA — Officials hope to receive $6.5 million in federal stimulus money to create a renewable energy park that would include wind turbines and solar panels at the Ontario County Landfill. (September 19, 09)Finger Lakes Times Online [more on Energy in our area}
Funding For Renewable Energy Projects The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) has released $95 million for renewable energy projects in support of the State’s efforts to further the development of large-scale renewable resources, including wind, biomass and hydroelectric projects. The release of funding for large-scale renewable energy projects is the latest step to grow New York’s clean energy economy. This money will also help to further Governor Paterson’s goal of increasing the state’s proportion of renewable energy by 30 percent by 2015. More information can be found at http://nyserda.org/rps/index.asp (September 16, 09) [more on Energy in our area]
Groundbreaking Carbon Market Reaches One-Year Milestone - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation Latest Auction Nets $27.4 Million for New York as State Advances Governor's Clean Energy Agenda State Environmental Conservation Commissioner Pete Grannis today hailed the success of New York's participation in the most recent sale of carbon dioxide (CO2) pollution allowances - noting that the pioneering cap-and-trade system for greenhouse gases has now reached its one-year milestone. Wednesday's auction, the fifth held by the 10 states participating in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), generated more than $66.3 million to invest in the clean energy economy. New York's share of the proceeds is approximately $27.4 million. (September 11, 09) Press Releases - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation [more on Energy in our area]
Area biofuels makers find differing levels of success | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle Both companies' products can be found in fuel tanks across the Rochester region. But the two firms, both of them key parts of the region's alternative energy industry, are finding differing levels of success. August 30, 09) http://www.democratandchronicle.com/ [more on Energy in our area]
County to apply for renewable energy grant - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow Canandaigua, N.Y. — The Ontario County Planning Department is completing an application for a U.S. Department of Energy grant that could secure between $5 million and $7 million worth of funding for wind and solar renewable energy projects in the county. (August 22, 09) Home - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow
Lack of clean-up funds may land Ginna power plant in 'safe storage' | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle With Constellation Energy short on the cash it needs to eventually clean up the Robert E. Ginna Nuclear Power Plant, the energy company might mothball the plant for a time. (August 23, 09) Democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
Chesonis Family Foundation funds solar energy project - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow Perinton, N.Y. — Massachusetts Institute of Technology scientists are shedding light on solar energy technology and ways it can be better used as an alternative energy source worldwide. (August 12, 09) Home - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow
A flash point for hydrogen fuel - News Articles - Rochester City Newspaper Hydrogen's promise as the ultra-clean, ultra-domestic transportation fuel of the future has been around for decades. (August 13, 09) Rochester City Newspaper
Standard Program | Renewable Fuels | US EPA August 7, 2009: EPA announces peer review findings on the lifecycle analysis for the proposed rule to implement the expanded Renewable Fuel Standard Program EPA, under the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007, is responsible for revising and implementing regulations to ensure that gasoline sold in the United States contains a minimum volume of renewable fuel. The Renewable Fuel Standard program will increase the volume of renewable fuel required to be blended into gasoline from 9 billion gallons in 2008 to 36 billion gallons by 2022. The new RFS program regulations are being developed in collaboration with refiners, renewable fuel producers, and many other stakeholders.
Noblehurst Farms power business with cow manure | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle The cows at Noblehurst Farms in Pavilion, Genesee County, produce about 15,000 gallons of milk a day. And enough manure to power the fans and lights in their barn, the sensors that monitor their health and milk production and the 75-foot rotary milk parlor that extracts and chills their milk. (August 8, 09) Democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
More Gas Contamination Affects Pennsylvania Residents - ProPublica Pennsylvania environment officials are investigating another natural gas well leak, after residents near the town of Roaring Branch complained last month that rust-colored water was flowing from a spring and two small creeks were bubbling with methane gas (August 4, 09) ProPublica - Journalism in the Public Interest
Fuel Cell Cars - Coming Soon? | The fuel cell car runs on electricity generated by combining hydrogen and oxygen. When those molecules get together they produce water, and one leftover electron. Fuel cells harness those extra electrons to generate the electricity that powers the car. The only emission into the atmosphere is water. Dependence on foreign oil -- zero. (July 29,09) Top Stories - 13WHAM.com - Rochester News, Weather, and Sports
Solar powered recycling system showcased in Buffalo BUFFALO - Mayor Byron Brown Monday participated in a demonstration of an integrated recycling unit, known as the BigBelly® , which the Department of Public Works is testing as part of its ongoing effort to utilize state-of-the-art equipment to support the city’s recycling efforts. (July 28, 09) New York State News on the Net!
TheStar.com | Business | Scratch those new Ontario reactor plans Bruce Power cites drop in electricity demand as reason to refit old plants, not dream up new ones | Bruce Power has abandoned its grand vision of building new reactors in Nanticoke and at its existing site near Kincardine, another sign that the nuclear "renaissance" is not emerging as planned. The nuclear operator, which supplies more than 20 per cent of Ontario's electricity, said yesterday that a fall in power demand in the province persuaded it to contact federal regulators and withdraw its site applications, as well as drop its environmental assessments. (July 24, 09 ) TheStar.com Toronto Edition - Breaking News, Sports, Entertainment, Business, Classifieds, Local and National News - GTA, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Ginna powering area and beyond | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle Nuclear power does not give off greenhouse gases. It does not use fossil fuels in making electricity. But it is loud and hot. (July 26, 090 Democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
Ginna cleanup plan sought | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle Constellation Energy has until the end of the month to say how it intends to make up more than $80 million in funding shortfalls for the eventual decommissioning of several of its nuclear power plants, including the Robert E. Ginna facility in Wayne County. (July 15, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
Amended Law Could Prevent Gas Zone Pricing - 13WHAM.com - Rochester News, Weather, and Sports (Henrietta, N.Y.) – Nine months after a state law banning zone pricing for gas went into effect, drivers can still find about a 20 cent per gallon disparity in price depending on where they buy it. (July 14, 09) Home - 13WHAM.com - Rochester News, Weather, and Sports
DOE Awards $8.2 Million to Rochester Center for 'Extreme Fusion' : University of Rochester News The U.S. Department of Energy has awarded $8.2 million to the University of Rochester to support its Fusion Science Center for Extreme States of Matter for another five years. The funding represents a 50 percent increase over the previous $5.5 million grant, which founded the center in 2004. (July 13, 09) University of Rochester: News
GOV SITE - GOVERNOR PATERSON ANNOUNCES LAUNCH OF ENERGY EFFICIENCY CLEARINGHOUSE WEBSITE Website Will Improve Accessibility to State Programs for Schools, Hospitals, and Local Governments Governor David A. Paterson today announced the launch of an energy efficiency clearinghouse website (http://www.nyserda.org/clearinghouse), which will provide information on State-funded energy efficiency programs available to schools, hospitals and local governments. The Governor called for the creation of a single point of access to information on all State-run energy efficiency programs for schools, hospitals and local governments in his 2009 State of the State Address. (July 7, 09) Press Releases
Time an ally | Delays in drilling rules allow time to ensure care in process | Landowners, economic development leaders and even local governments are getting itchy for New York to update its gas-drilling regulations that would allow horizontal hydraulic fracturing into natural gas deposits. With lucrative lease payments, royalties and taxes at stake, it's no wonder that residents and officials across the Southern Tier and ranging north into Central New York are eager for the state Department of Environmental Conservation to get the new rules finished. (July 10, 09) stargazette.com | Star-Gazette | Elmira news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Elmira, New York
Energy Industry Sways Congress With Misleading Data - ProPublica The two key arguments that the oil and gas industry is using to fight federal regulation of the natural gas drilling process called hydraulic fracturing -- that the costs would cripple their business and that state regulations are already strong -- are challenged by the same data and reports the industry is using to bolster its position. One widely-referenced study [2] (PDF) estimated that complying with regulations would cost the oil and gas industry more than $100,000 per gas well. But the figures are based on 10-year-old estimates and list expensive procedures that aren't mentioned in the proposed regulations. (July 8, 09) ProPublica - Journalism in the Public Interest
Gillibrand unveils plans to help manufacturers transition to clean energy production WASHINGTON – New York has lost more than 160,000 manufacturing jobs since 2001, or nearly one-quarter of its manufacturing base. To help New York’s manufactures get back on track immediately and to strengthen them for the long term, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, Tuesday unveiled her plan to help small and mid-sized businesses afford health care, open and expand new markets, and transition to clean energy production that will power New York and the country for decades to come. The Rochester-Finger Lakes Region lost 26,769 manufacturing jobs from 2001 to 2008. However, in the past ten years, 1,329 companies have benefited as a result of the MEP program, including retaining and creating new jobs. {July 8, 09) New York State News on the Net!
DEC REPORTS: Natural Gas Production Dips Slightly in 2008 - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation Landowners Net Nearly $61M in Royalties, $15M for Local Governments Natural gas production from New York wells in 2008 continued at a high rate but declined slightly from recent record levels, State Environmental Conservation Commissioner Pete Grannis announced today. (July 6, 09) Press Releases - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation
Faculty bring ‘electronic bicycle’ to Adventure Days at Honeoye Falls-Lima Middle School Youngsters amused watching their teachers maneuver unusual bike "Members of the College of Applied Science and Technology faculty demonstrated their electronic bicycle to Honeoye Falls-Lima middle school students at the school’s HFL Adventure Days on June 17. The bike demonstration was part of the school’s annual science day and was featured in the Environmental Expo." (June 24, 09) RIT - News & Events:
MOULE: Can we forget about coal, please? - News Blog - Rochester City Newspaper Governor David Paterson has a funny definition of clean energy. Just last week he rolled out a legislative package that he said would invest in clean energy technologies, protect the environment, and so on. The problem is, he included a measure that would clear the way for a pilot "clean coal" - he used the much less controversial "carbon capture and sequestration" phrasing - power plant in Jamestown. The state provided about $6 million in funding to the project last year. Project leaders are seeking millions of dollars in federal grants, too, says a press release from the governor's office. (June 9, 09) Rochester City Newspaper
Clean Coal Plant Project (Jamestown, New York) - SourceWatch The Jamestown Board of Public Utilities has proposed a 40 megawatt coal plant at its Samuel J. Carlson Generating Station in Jamestown, New York. The plant will utilize circulating fluidized bed technology and burn coal, petroleum coke, and wood coal. SourceWatch - SourceWatch
GOVERNOR PATERSON ANNOUNCES SUPPORT FOR NEW ADVANCED COAL POWER PLANT FOR JAMESTOWN – FIRST OF ITS KIND IN THE WORLD Project Could Diversify State’s Energy Supply and Create “Clean-Tech” Jobs Upstate Advanced Coal Development Follows Most Aggressive Efficiency and Renewable Targets in the Nation Governor David A. Paterson today visited Chautauqua County in Western New York to announce State support for an advanced coal power plant in Jamestown. Advanced coal technology could represent the next major step in addressing global climate change while also helping to diversify the state’s energy supply and create “clean-tech” jobs Upstate. (June 10, 09) www.ny.gov/governor
The Charleston Gazette - West Virginia News and Sports - News - Coal's costs outweigh benefits, WVU study finds CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- Coal mining costs Appalachians five times more in early deaths as the industry provides to the region in jobs, taxes and other economic benefits, according to a groundbreaking new study co-authored by a West Virginia University researcher. (June 20, 09) The Charleston Gazette - West Virginia News and Sports - -
Will Laser Technology Bring Back Energy Efficient Incandescent Light Bulbs? There is a new project in the works from scientists at the University of Rochester with the ability to make incandescent light bulbs more energy efficient as well as brighter than ever before. All it takes is a few bright UofR scientists, a powerful laser and a few quadrillionths of a second. (June 18, 09) New State Open Space Plan Continues Conservation Legacy, Focuses Goals - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation
Bigger share of power pie for WNY | WIVB.com LEWISTON, N.Y. (WIVB) - Tuesday, the head of the New York Power Authority paid a visit to western New York, talking about the advantages of green energy. But will local customers or communities actually reap any financial rewards? (June 16, 09 WIVB-TV News4 News, Weather, Sports Buffalo, NY | WIVB.com
Nuclear Regulatory Commission to examine Ginna safety system | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle A four-person inspection team from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission is heading to the Robert E. Ginna nuclear power generating station to look into the problem of a repeatedly malfunctioning backup safety system. (June 13, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
FRAC Act—Congress Introduces Twin Bills to Control Drilling and Protect Drinking Water - ProPublica In a widely expected move [1] that is sure to draw the ire of the oil and gas industry, Democratic members of Congress today introduced twin bills to amend the Safe Drinking Water Act and give the Environmental Protection Agency authority over the controversial drilling process [2] called hydraulic fracturing [3].- Journalism in the Public Interest
New York State Drilling Bill Would Override State Regulators to Protect Water - ProPublica Oil and gas industry representatives have been singing the praises of state environmental regulations [1] in recent weeks as they work to fend off federal legislation [2] to govern the process of hydraulic fracturing [3]. But a sweeping new bill introduced Friday in the New York State Assembly is the kind of thing that may change their tune. (June 8, 09) ProPublica - Journalism in the Public Interest
06/08/2009: EPA to Hold Public Hearing on Proposed Increase in Renewable Fuels WASHINGTON - EPA will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, June 9, regarding the agency’s proposed strategy for increasing the supply of renewable fuels, poised to reach 36 billion gallons by 2022. The hearing is an opportunity for stakeholders and members of the public to voice their opinions on the proposal. EPA will consider written comments submitted during the public comment period with the same weight as oral comments presented during the public hearing. WHO: EPA WHAT: Public hearing on the proposed increase in the supply of renewable fuels as mandated by the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007. WHEN: Tuesday, June 9, 10:00 a.m. until the last speaker testifies. WHERE: The Dupont Hotel, 1500 New Hampshire Avenue Northwest, Washington, D.C. 20036, 202-483-6000. By Metro: Take the red line to the Dupont Circle Metro station and exit toward Q Street. The hotel is a half a block from the station. Enter the hotel at the 19th Street entrance. Audio of the hearing will be available through a telephone line at: 866-414-4480, pass code: 13765718 This service will be available until 6:00p.m. and can accommodate up to 200 lines. More information on the proposal and how to submit written comments: http://epa.gov/otaq/renewablefuels/#regulations
Industry Defends Federal Loophole for Drilling Before Packed Congressional Hearing - ProPublica In a packed and sometimes contentious hearing [1] on Capitol Hill Thursday, representatives of the oil and gas industry and their state regulators vigorously defended the practice of injecting toxic fluids underground without federal regulatory oversight [2]. The House Energy and Minerals subcommittee called the hearing to explore the economic and environmental risks associated with the practice, called hydraulic fracturing [3], after a string of reports of water contamination related to drilling across the country were reported by ProPublica [2]. Hydraulic fracturing is currently exempted from the Safe Drinking Water Act, but both the House and Senate are drawing up legislation that would close the Bush-era loophole and reinstate the Environmental Protection Agency’s authority over the fracturing process. (June 5, 09)ProPublica - Journalism in the Public Interest
Paterson pushes clean energy jobs for New York : News : WSTM NBC3 ALBANY (AP) -- Gov. David Paterson will soon release a package of energy legislation including bills that would use the state government's purchasing power to get reduced energy rates and shoot carbon dioxide underground to combat global warming. (June 5, 09) Local News, Weather and Sports for Syracuse and Central New York - Powered by WSTM NBC3
Natural Gas Drilling Debate Heats Up - ProPublica Tomorrow a House Natural Resources subcommittee will hold its first hearing of 2009 on controversial issues [1] related to the burgeoning natural gas drilling industry, which ProPublica has been covering for the last year. The committee is expected to grill a handful of state regulators and industry representatives about the environmental risks of drilling for shale gas [2] and about the use of hydraulic fracturing [3], a process in which water and chemicals are pumped underground at high pressure. (June 3, 09) ProPublica - Journalism in the Public Interest
Effect of GM Bankruptcy on Dealerships, Fuel Cell Research - 13WHAM.com (Honeoye Falls, N.Y.) Fuel Cell Research Continues | General Motors has a another presence in Rochester--a fuel cell research center that does the kind of work President Obama says is crucial to the company's future. (June 2, 09) - 13WHAM.com
Regular light bulbs made super-efficient with ultra-fast laser | Laser process doubles brightness for the same amount of energy An ultra-powerful laser can turn regular incandescent light bulbs into power-sippers, say optics researchers at the University of Rochester. The process could make a light as bright as a 100-watt bulb consume less electricity than a 60-watt bulb while remaining far cheaper and radiating a more pleasant light than a fluorescent bulb can. (May 29, 09) EurekAlert! Public News List
RIT Unveils Hydrogen Fueling Station Efforts continue to make upstate New York a new hub for clean energy. Frank Murray, the head of the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) was at RIT announcing a new partnership with the school; it included helping unveil RIT’s new hydrogen fueling station and demonstrating its use with hydrogen test vehicles in use on the campus. (May 26, 09) R News: As It Happens, Where It Happens
Broome County exec seeks natural gas development BINGHAMTON – Brooke County Executive Barbara Fiala traveled to Albany to lobby state leaders on the potential for natural gas development in the greater Binghamton region. Fiala met with representatives of Gov. Paterson, Sen. Malcolm Smith and the head of the Department of Environmental Conservation, Peter Grannis. New York State News on the Net!(May 23-24, 09)
Learning about Home Energy Use from Google If you're an RG&E customer, you probably have to read your own meter. You mark where the gauges are on a postcard, and then send it in. You probably don't know what any of it means. If you did, you could save money. The new Google Power Meter makes you your own meter reader. (May 21, 09) RochesterHomePage
05/19/2009: President Obama Announces National Fuel Efficiency Policy WASHINGTON, DC – President Obama today – for the first time in history – set in motion a new national policy aimed at both increasing fuel economy and reducing greenhouse gas pollution for all new cars and trucks sold in the United States. The new standards, covering model years 2012-2016, and ultimately requiring an average fuel economy standard of 35.5 mpg in 2016, are projected to save 1.8 billion barrels of oil over the life of the program with a fuel economy gain averaging more than 5 percent per year and a reduction of approximately 900 million metric tons in greenhouse gas emissions. This would surpass the CAFE law passed by Congress in 2007 required an average fuel economy of 35 mpg in 2020. News Releases | Newsroom | USEPA
EPA Announces Energy Star label for Computer Servers Contact: Enesta Jones, 202-564-4355 / 7873 / jones.enesta@epa.gov (Washington, D.C. - May 18, 2009) For the first time, EPA announced Energy Star requirements for computer servers that will protect the environment and result in significant energy savings. On average, computer servers that earn the Energy Star label will be 30 percent more energy efficient than standard servers. If all servers sold in the United States meet this new specification, energy cost savings would grow to $800 million per year and prevent greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those from more 1 million vehicles. Computer servers that earn the Energy Star label will include: · Efficient power supplies that generate less waste heat, reducing the need for excess air conditioning in the facilities where they are housed; · Improved power quality, which provides building-wide efficiency benefits; · Capabilities to measure real time power use, processor utilization, and air temperature, which improves manageability and lowers total cost of ownership; · Advanced power management features to save energy across various operating states; and · A power and performance data sheet for purchasers that standardizes key information on energy performance, features and other capabilities. Awarding the Energy Star label to computer servers is part of a broader EPA initiative to address growing national data center energy consumption. More information on the new specification and all EPA’s data center initiatives: http://www.energystar.gov/datacenters --from U.S. EPA Newsroom - News Releases
RIT study maps environmental controversy over gas drilling in Catskills Divided communities await New York state action | New research indicates that environmental media campaigns to stop gas drilling in the Catskills of New York state, while highly publicized, so far have had uncertain impact on stopping plans for drilling in the region’s Marcellus Shale. The results provide insights into the potential impact of news reports to affect policy change. (April 30, 09) RIT - University News
Natural gas efficiency targets approved ALBANY – The State Public Service Commission Thursday established near- and long-term targets for gas efficiency in an historic move designed to significantly decrease the amount of natural gas used by home and business owners over the next 10 years. It also sets forth a process for approval of programs and phasing of existing interim utility programs into a comprehensive statewide gas efficiency program. (May 15, 09) New York State News on the Net!
DEC has improved monitoring of state oil and gas drilling operations, lease revenue, says DiNapoli ALBANY – The State Department of Environmental Conservation is doing a better job of monitoring whether the state’s taxpayers are receiving their appropriate share of revenue from gas and oil well and storage operations located on public lands, according to an audit released by State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli. (May 15, 09) New York State News on the Net!
Ethanol Industry’s 15% Solution Raises Concerns - NYTimes.com The Environmental Protection Agency is preparing to make an important and far-reaching decision this year that will affect more than 500 million gasoline engines powering everything from large pickups to family cars to lawn mowers: whether to grant the ethanol industry’s request to raise the maximum amount of ethanol that can be added to gasoline. (May 8, 09) The New York Times - Breaking News, World News & Multimedia
GoErie.com: Opponents of proposed tires-to-energy plant stage protest (May 2, 09) GoErie.com
EPA Lays out a Plan for the Nation’s Increase in Renewable fuels Washington, D.C. – May 5, 2009) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is proposing its strategy for increasing the supply of renewable fuels, poised to reach 36 billion gallons by 2022, as mandated by the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007. (May 5, 09) U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Energy research funding announced WASHINGTON – Millions in investments for energy research has been announced for some of New York’s leading research institutions, including Brookhaven National Laboratory, Columbia University, Cornell University, General Electric Global Research and SUNY Stony Brook. Combined, the institutions will receive $10 to $50 million over the next five years to advance innovation and technology in renewable energy to combat global warming and fuel New York’s economy for the long term. (April 28, 09) New York State News on the Net!
globeandmail.com: Court ruling forces mining pollution to be revealed Mining companies have long had a loophole in federal environmental right-to-know law that no other industry enjoys. Environment Canada has exempted them from having to track the full extent of the pollution their operations cause. (April 25, 09) globeandmail.com: Canada's National Newspaper
Ontario County OK's Landfill Study The Ontario County Board of Supervisors voted Thursday night to spend 70-thousand dollars for an independent study at the county landfill. (April 24, 09) http://rochesterhomepage.net/
www.WHEC.com - PSC approves acquisition of Constellation Nuclear The state Public Service Commission has approved a French company's acquisition of half of Constellation Nuclear. (April, 22, 09) www.WHEC.com - Rochester, NY News, Weather, Sports, Health, Investigative, Entertainment
Cooking Grease Used to Fuel a Shuttle Bus at U of R Each week, thousands of gallons of vegetable oil are used to cook fries and chicken for students. Now, the grease is getting a new lease on life. (April 20, 09) RochesterHomePage
Turning Garbage Into Fuel? Fuel and jobs. Both are needed in this economy. And that's the idea behind a project they're getting ready to throw the switch on in Ontario County. A private company wants to invest $100 million into technology to turn garbage into gas. 2200 tons of garbage gets dumped in the Ontario County Landfill every day. Casella Waste Systems runs the landfill. It wants to convert that garbage into liquid fuel. "Our ambition would be to try to run vehicles with the fuel that could include school buses, snow plows. We're also hopeful the fuel could become available to residents," said Jerry Leone, Casella Waste Systems. (April 20, 09) RochesterHomePage
Brooks Announces Plan for Green Energy at Airport | Monroe County Executive Maggie Brooks introduced a referral to the Monroe County Legislature that would amend the 2009 operating budget for the County Department of Aviation. The revision would provide funding for a Green Energy Initiatives Project, which will place wind turbines and solar panels on the roof of the Greater Rochester International Airport (GRIA). The project will be completed at no cost to County taxpayers. MyMonroe. Opening Up Government. | Monroe County, NY
Wind Turbines at The Airport? They're Coming Soon The Greater Rochester International Airport is planning to go green in a big way. It's all part of an effort to cut energy and operating costs--and it involves putting wind turbines on the roof of the airport. (April 15, 09) RochesterHomePage
Wind, sun could power Rochester airport | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle Plans for small wind turbines and solar panels at the Greater Rochester International Airport would put the facility in league with other environmentally friendly facilities around the country and reduce costs for the airlines. (April 15, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
Biodiesel Bus Takes Maiden Voyage on Rochester's River Campus : University of Rochester News Undergraduate Project Turns Waste Vegetable Oil into Biodiesel for Shuttles A team of University of Rochester undergraduates is putting fast food's fatty byproduct to good use for the environment with a student-led project called UR Biodiesel. Their plan is to convert excess fryer oil from Campus Dining Services into biodiesel to fuel shuttle buses. Launching its maiden voyage on Earth Day, Wednesday April 22, at 1:30 p.m., the Biodiesel Bus will depart from the Hopeman Engineering Building (a stop on the Silver Line), shuttling faculty, staff, and students to the biodiesel lab for a tour of the facility. (April 14, 09) University of Rochester: News
Ethanol Plant Going Strong in Recession - 13WHAM.com (Shelby, N.Y.) - The day-to-day routine for the ethanol plant since December 2007 is 24-hours a day, year-around--transforming corn into ethanol, nearly all of it from local farmers' fields. (April 8, 09) Home - 13WHAM.com
Plans for 190-Mile Power Line on Hold | A company that wanted to build a 190-mile high-voltage power line running from upstate New York to downstate has suspended its plans at least temporarily. (April 4, 09) R News: As It Happens, Where It Happens
Landfill project review: Who will pay? - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow Canandaigua, N.Y. — Should Ontario County spend taxpayer dollars or require someone else to pay for an outside firm to study a gas-to-fuel pilot project for the county landfill? (April 3, 09) http://www.mpnnow.com/
Ontario County ponders $100M garbage plant Disposal of garbage and recycling are done in a big way in little Ontario County. Now a proposal for a pilot waste-to-fuel program at the Ontario County Landfill could pave the way for a $100 million facility. Supporters say the proposal could put the county on the map. (April 2, 09) http://www.democratandchronicle.com/apps/pbcs.dll/section?Category=rocearth
Ontario County committee splits on landfill project review - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow Canandaigua, N.Y. — Half the members of the Ontario County Solid Waste Management Committee want an outside firm to conduct an environmental assessment of the pilot waste-to-fuel project at the Ontario County landfill. The others think the assessment is unnecessary. (April 2, 09) http://www.mpnnow.com/
Irondequoit Scouts' french-fry oil fuels green machines | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle This year, the Scouts are putting the used oil to good reuse: They're saving it and will give 25 gallons or so to a Livingston County man who will convert it to fuel for his car. (March 31, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
WXXI: Stimulus Aid Promised for Fuel Cell Center (2009-03-20) Congressmen Eric Massa from the Southern Tier and Steve Israel of Long Island drove a fuel-cell powered Chevy Equinox Friday during a tour of General Motors' Fuel Cell Research Center in Honeoye Falls. And the two New York Democrats say they plan to make sure a substantial chunk of the federal stimulus package goes to help fuel cell and alternative fuel development in the Empire State. WXXI NewsRoom
northumberlandnews.com / indynews.ca | Solar farm gets the green light NORTHUMBERLAND -- Local environmentalists are rejoicing after Hamilton Township gave the go-ahead for the county’s first solar farm. (March 20, 09) northumberlandnews.com / indynews.ca | Home
www.WHEC.com - Congressmen tour fuel cell plant in Honeoye Falls, hopeful for the future Congressmen tour fuel cell plant in Honeoye Falls, hopeful for the future We keep hearing about green jobs. There are 400 green jobs in Honeoye Falls at the GM plant where workers have created fuel cell technology to power vehicles. Two members of congress stopped by for a tour of the plant Friday afternoon. (March 21, 09) www.WHEC.com - Rochester, NY News, Weather, Sports, Health, Investigative, Entertainment
Solar energy heats water at Broome County office building BINGHAMTON – The Broome County Office Building in Binghamton now has a solar panel installed on its roof to hear the building’s water. (March 17, 09) New York State News on the Net!
EETimes.com - Nanowires could make fuel cells commercially viable PORTLAND, Ore. — Woven nanowire electrodes could provide hydrogen fuel cells the boost needed to make them commercially viable, according to a University of Rochester researchers. "Our electrodes will be woven from nanowires which are very, very long compared to their width," said professor James "C. M." Li, of the University of Rochester (New York). "Their small size exposes more catalyst, making the fuel cells using them more efficient while reducing their expense since less platinum is required." (March 13, 09) EETimes.com | Electronics Industry News for EEs & Engineering Managers
Nanowires May Lead To Better Fuel Cells : University of Rochester News The creation of long platinum nanowires at the University of Rochester could soon lead to the development of commercially viable fuel cells. (March 11, 09) University of Rochester: News
Cornell launches program to turn garbage into fuel : News : WSTM NBC3 ITHACA (AP) -- Cornell University has launched a new renewable fuel project that will make fuel from used deep-fryer oil, farm waste and other trash. (March 6, 09) Local News, Weather and Sports for Syracuse and Central New York - Powered by WSTM NBC3
www.News10NBC.com - Slaughter wants to expand local fuel cell operations Congresswoman Louise Slaughter wants General Motors to expand its fuel cell operation in Rochester. (March 3, 09) www.News10NBC.com - Rochester, NY News, Weather, Sports, Health, Investigative, Entertainment
GOVERNOR PATERSON ANNOUNCES PLANS FOR THE LARGEST SOLAR ENERGY PROJECT IN STATE HISTORY Project Would Provide Enough Power for 6,500 Households and Reduce Carbon Emissions by 20,000 Tons Per Year – Supports Governor’s “45 by 15” Clean Energy Initiative Governor David A. Paterson today announced that the largest solar energy project in New York State history is moving forward on Long Island, increasing the State’s total solar energy production threefold. The 50 megawatt (MW) project would provide enough power to sustain more than 6,500 households and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 20,000 tons per year. (Feb 27, 09) Press Releases
Freshwater Wind Farms for the Great Lakes? - Green Inc. Blog - NYTimes.com Here’s a pressing question about freshwater offshore wind farms: what about the winter ice? That’s one of the many engineering challenges posed by developing massive offshore wind farms in the Great Lakes, an idea that’s now very much on the policy radars of renewable energy planners in Ohio and Wisconsin. (Feb 25, 09) The New York Times - Breaking News, World News & Multimedia
Geneva council discusses gasification project - GENEVA — Casella Waste Management’s proposed gasification project at the Ontario County Landfill will be the subject of a special City Council meeting at 6 p.m. Wednesday. (Feb 17, 09) http://www.fltimes.com/
NRC reschedules review of new Nine Mile Point reactor application WASHINGTON - The Nuclear Regulatory Commission will hold off on starting much of its review of the Combined License application for the Nine Mile Point site near Oswego following a request from the applicants, Nine Mile Point Nuclear Project and UniStar. The staff has halted the scoping process but intends to restart it later this year. New York State News on the Net!
Southern Tier couple find savings with installation of solar panels | theithacajournal.com | The Ithaca Journal It's also a step more and more New York state homeowners and businesses are taking, state energy officials say. (Feb 17, 09) http://www.theithacajournal.com/
TheStar.com | Business | Ontario lags in race to turn grids clean, green The air could get a lot cleaner around Toronto over the coming years. At the very least, less dirty. You can thank Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm, a transplanted Canadian who celebrated her 50th birthday earlier this month by putting an interim and potentially permanent moratorium on the development of coal plants in America's automotive heartland. (Feb 16, 09) TheStar.com Toronto Edition - Breaking News, Sports, Entertainment, Business, Classifieds, Local and National News - GTA, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
DEC Announces Issuance of Final Scope for Marcellus Shale Study - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has completed its Final Scope for the Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement (SGEIS) on the Oil, Gas and Solution Mining Regulatory Program (SGEIS). The "Scope" will serve as a roadmap for the environmental study that DEC will be conducting to analyze the environmental impacts associated with high volume hydraulic fracturing for the extraction of natural gas from the Marcellus Shale and other low permeability gas reservoirs across the Southern Tier and into the Catskills. The Final Scope is now posted on the DEC website. (Feb 6, 09) New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
RIT Leading Hydrogen Fuel Charge If all goes well, this could be the gas pump of the future. "Oh I think it's really cool that we're doing it here,” said RIT research professor Mike Haselkorn. RIT has one of three Hydrogen pumps in the state. Through federal and state grants, RIT has three cars on campus that run on hydrogen, including two police vehicles. The goal isn't just to see if Hyrdrogen cars could eventually save the campus money on fuel, but to test the future of hydrogen itself. (Feb 11, 09) RochesterHomePage
www.News10NBC.com - RG&E and NYSEG request rate hikes Your energy rates could be going back up. RG&E and New York State Electric and Gas have requested rate hikes and they could be substantial. (Feb 11, 09) www.News10NBC.com - Rochester, NY News, Weather, Sports, Health, Investigative, Entertainment
SPOTLIGHT FUEL: Trash to gas? - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow In 18 to 20 years, Ontario County’s landfill will run out of space. Bulldozers will cap it and, ideally, the county would have found another place to send its trash by then. Or, maybe not. (Feb 07, 09) Home - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow
ENVIRONMENT: The waste-to-fuel experiment - News Articles - Rochester City Newspaper When we fill our cars with gasoline, we're using the processed product of petroleum - a material that developed deep underground and with the application of a tremendous amount of heat and pressure over millions of years. There's only so much of it and burning lots and lots of petroleum, as humanity has learned, has dire consequences - environmental, political, and economical. (Feb 4, 09) Rochester City Newspaper
ENERGY: Small wind, big picture - News Articles - Rochester City Newspaper Irondequoit residents and businesses may soon be able to harness the power of the wind to produce their own electricity. The Town Board is considering an ordinance that would allow both groups to install small wind towers on their properties. The proposed law limits tower height to 150 feet from the base of the tower to the tip of the turbine blades, as well as electrical output - industrial wind towers are more than twice as big and generate far more power. (Jan 14, 08) Rochester City Newspaper
ENERGY: Hamlin wind fight continues - News Articles - Rochester City Newspaper Hamlin's wind-tower law has been struck down by a judge. State Supreme Court Justice David M. Barry issued the decision on January 5 in a lawsuit brought by the Hamlin Preservation Group. At the core of his decision is the town's environmental review; the Town Board said that the law would not have a significant effect on the environment. Town officials "identified the relevant areas of environmental concern," Barry wrote, but the board "did not take a hard look at them nor did the board set forth a reasoned elaboration for its determination." (Jan 12, 09) Rochester City Newspaper
Fuel Cell Happiness - 13WHAM.com (Honeoye Falls, N.Y.) - Scientists at General Motors fuel cell plant regularly test hydrogen fuel cells inside a freezer, but later this week, they'll be able to simply go outdoors. (Jan 14, 09) - 13WHAM.com
New York Joins 11-state Effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from fuels ALBANY – New York and 10 other Northeast and Mid-Atlantic states will cooperate to develop a regional "Low Carbon Fuel Standard" to reduce the carbon concentration in fuels used in vehicles and buildings, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and New York State Energy and Research Development Authority officials announced Tuesday. The 11 states - the 10 members of the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative plus Pennsylvania - will work together to create an emissions-performance standard that will eventually provide incentives for energy providers to use low-carbon fuel - which will result in the use of fewer greenhouse gases and aid in the fight against global warming. (Jan 9, 09) New York State News on the Net!
MAKING NEW YORK MORE ENERGY INDEPENDENT AND ENERGY EFFICIENT - Governor Paterson proposes one of the most aggressive clean energy goals in the country. By 2015, New York will meet 45 percent of its electricity needs through improved energy efficiency and clean renewable energy. (Jan 7, 09) Press Releases -www.ny.gov/governor
Canada ready to plug into electric cars: study group Plug-in electric cars can make a breakthrough into the North American market within the next decade as the economy emerges from its current slowdown, says the head of an industry-led panel advising the Harper government. (Jan 4, 09) Montreal Gazette

2008

Drilling for Gas in the Marcellus Shale Raises Concerns About New York City Water Supply - NYTimes.com Upstate, the push by energy companies to explore drilling under a broad swath of western and southern New York State have provoked alarm and protest among environmentalists and others. (Dec 19, 08) The New York Times - Breaking News, World News & Multimedia
RIT Professor Will Help Develop Fuel Standards for Trucks -HENRIETTA, NY (2008-12-12) An RIT professor will be helping develop national standards to improve the fuel economy of heavy trucks. WXXI NewsRoom
Most poll respondents oppose increase to gas tax - Respondents to this week’s RBJ Daily Report Snap Poll do not support a gradual increase in the federal gasoline tax, as some economists have urged. (Dec 5, 08) Rochester Business Journal
Tompkins County Legislature sends drilling resolution to state DEC | theithacajournal.com | The Ithaca Journal ITHACA — The Tompkins County Legislature unanimously passed a resolution Tuesday that asks the state Department of Environmental Conservation to consider several aspects of a document that would help regulate new processes for natural gas drilling. (Dec 3, 08) theithacajournal.com | The Ithaca Journal | Ithaca news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Ithaca, NY
Nuclear cleanup to cost billions -- Page 1 -- Times Union - Albany NY State-funded study puts almost $10 billion price on effort at West Valley - While it will cost taxpayers billions to clean out dangerous radioactive waste from a defunct nuclear fuel reprocessing plant, storing it there would cost billions more over the centuries — and risk contamination of Lake Erie. (Dec 3, 08) Albany NY News - Times Union - Serving Albany, Saratoga, Schenectady, Troy
RIT scientist envisions creating environmentally safe technology for making fuels from junk | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle Rochester Institute of Technology professor Thomas Seager envisions a day when mobile refineries will travel from place to place, gobbling up just about anything that contains carbon and hydrogen to make a range of fuels, all without hurting the environment. (Nov 28, 08) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
ENERGY: Marcellus Shale: It's a gas, gas, gas - News Articles - Rochester City Newspaper A natural gas-rich rock formation in the Southern Tier could be New York's next economic bonanza, but without care it could be an environmental bust. It's all thanks to Marcellus Shale. (Nov 26, 08) Rochester City Newspaper
RNN-TV: New York's Hudson Valley News Authority - National News and Politics -- Upstate nuclear plant shuts down reactor after pump problem SCRIBA, N.Y. (AP) - Operators of 1 of the nuclear reactors on Lake Ontario near Oswego shut down their reactor today to fix a leaky cooling water re-circulation pump. (Nov 13, 08) RNN-TV: New York's Hudson Valley News Authority - National News and Politics -- Home
London Free Press - Business - Wind offers manufacturing opportunity London and region’s manufacturing future may lie in the wind. The energy industry needs wind turbine manufacturers and the area’s troubled manufacturing sector, with under-used plants and skilled but under-employed workers, should consider making the massive wind turbines which are popping up across Southern Ontario, a London conference heard yesterday. (Nov 13, 08) London Free Press | Breaking news - London, Southwestern Ontario and the world
Constellation N.Y. Nine Mile 2 reactor shut | Markets | Markets News | Reuters NEW YORK, Nov 13 (Reuters) - Constellation Energy Group Inc's (CEG.N: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz) 1,140-megawatt Unit 2 at the Nine Mile Point nuclear power station in New York shut by early Thursday, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission said in a report. (Nov 13, 08) World News, Financial News, Breaking US & International News | Reuters.com
10 Rochester schools earn Energy Star award | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle After school an Energy Patrol of fourth, fifth and sixth graders go from room to room to make sure lights and computer monitors are off. The light bulb in the teachers' soda machine has been removed. (Nov 8, 08) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
RG&E ponders bigger High Falls hydro project | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle Rochester Gas and Electric Corp., which last year announced expansions at two hydroelectric plants, said it has not yet decided if it will go ahead with the major part of the work. (Oct 27, 08) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
Nine Mile Point application for new reactor available on NRC website - OSWEGO - The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has made available to the public the combined license application for a new reactor at the Nine Mile Point site near Oswego, N.Y. The applicant, UniStar, submitted the application and associated information Sept. 30. The application, minus proprietary or security-related details, is available on the NRC Web site at: www.nrc.gov/reactors/new-reactors/col/nine-mile-point.html . (Oct. 22, 08) New York State News on the Net!
Consumer's ability to generate energy expanded - ALBANY – The New York State Public Service Commission has changed its landmark Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) program to provide an additional $42.6 million in grants to assist residential and commercial consumers throughout New York State to install solar panels and other types of electricity-producing equipment. (Oct 20, 08) New York State News on the Net!
Broome County tests 100 percent electric car - BINGHAMTON – Broome County officials are exploring the use of zero emission, 100 percent electric cars. (Oct 14, 08) New York State News on the Net!
ENERGY: Nuclear power play - News Articles - Rochester City Newspaper It's been more than 20 years since a new nuclear reactor came online in New York. That could soon change. Unistar, a partnership between Constellation Energy and the French company AREVA, is proposing a new reactor at Nine Mile Point just outside of Oswego. The plant would produce 1,600 megawatts, reports the Syracuse Post-Standard - a single megawatt can power up to 1,000 homes. Unistar told the Nuclear Regulatory Commission that it plans to apply for the expansion this year, says the Post-Standard. The licensing process is expected to take up to four years.(Oct 8, 08) Rochester City Newspaper
New York releases plan to assess impact of gas drilling | theithacajournal.com | The Ithaca Journal The state Department of Environmental Conservation has released its proposed plan to review the environmental impact of natural gas drilling in the Southern Tier. (Oct 8, 08) theithacajournal.com | The Ithaca Journal | Ithaca news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Ithaca, NY
New York State in Top 10 for Improved Energy Efficiency - 13WHAM.com WASHINGTON (AP) - An advocacy group ranks California, Connecticut and Oregon at the top of a list of states improving energy efficiency to respond to high prices, energy security and global warming. (Oct. 6, 08) Local News - 13WHAM.com
Alternative fuel is picking up steam | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle A fuel-cell powered General Motors SUV sat by a Honda Civic that runs on compressed natural gas. Nearby was a hydrogen hybrid Ford Escape and a Chevy Impala that fills up on a mix of 85 percent ethanol/15 percent gas .(Oct. 4, 08) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
Even waste oil is hard to come by - Rochester, NY - MPNnow The town’s plan to save money with a used oil furnace has fallen flat because even used oil is in high demand these days. (Sept 19, 08) - Rochester, NY - MPNnow
Iberdrola accepts PSC terms for Energy East buyout | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle Iberdrola has said it plans to invest $2 billion in wind power projects in the state, helping New York move toward its goal of having 25 percent of electricity generated by renewable sources by 2013. (Sept 10, 08) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
Energy Deal Finds Disapproval - A regulatory agency recently made a decision that might mean major energy changes in New York State. The Public Service Commission approved Iberdrola's acquisition of Energy East. The Spanish renewable energy company owns Rochester Gas and Electric and New York State Gas and Electric. Plans could affect an energy project in Western New York. (Sept 6, 08) http://www.rnews.com/
ENERGY: Iberdrola-Energy East merger is approved - News & Opinion - Rochester City Newspaper The Iberdrola-Energy East merger is a go. The State Public Service Commission approved the merger today. But the $2 billion in promised wind power investment dangled in front of state officials by Iberdrola is not part of the deal. Instead, commissioners are requiring only $200 million in wind power investment. (Sept 3, 08) Rochester City Newspaper
Special Task force to report on Brighton's environment | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle BRIGHTON — The town's fleet of vehicles has the largest carbon footprint of all its energy consumers and powering the streetlights was the town's largest energy expense in a recent year. (Sept 4, 08) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
Inside Ethanol You may have noticed something different at the gas pumps, the last time you filled up. More service stations are selling gasoline combined with ethanol. It's called E-10 and can be used in any car. (Aug. 29, 08) RochesterHomePage.net
Rochester-area motorists not satisfied with lower gas prices | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle Don't look now; you might jinx it. But gas prices are well on their way back down. The average price of a gallon of regular in the Rochester area dropped to $3.86 on Thursday, 39 cents below the record reached last month. (Aug 29, 08) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
Fill ‘er up — with hydrogen - Rochester, NY - MPNnow The hydrogen highway now includes another pit stop in Monroe County. The county, Rochester Institute of Technology and General Motors representatives officially announced the opening of the Green Fuel Station Aug. 21 on Scottsville Road, near the Greater Rochester International Airport. (Aug. 26, 08) - Rochester, NY - MPNnow
Drilling Boom Revives Hopes for Natural Gas - NYTimes.com HOUSTON — American natural gas production is rising at a clip not seen in half a century, pushing down prices of the fuel and reversing conventional wisdom that domestic gas fields were in irreversible decline. (Aug. 25, 08) The New York Times - Breaking News, World News & Multimedia
Bill seeks uniform gas prices in New York | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle ALBANY — Gasoline prices are coming down, and lawmakers hope that a bill they passed earlier this month will lower them further, especially in affluent areas. But oil companies warn that if Gov. David Paterson signs the measure, it could have the opposite effect. (Aug. 26, 08) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
Green Fuel Station One of Few in Nation - 13WHAM.com (Rochester, N.Y.) - As governments try to figure out ways to spend fewer of your tax dollars, more leaders are looking at cars. Thursday, Monroe County showed off a brand new green fueling station, complete with different types of alternative energy. (Aug. 21, 08) Local News - 13WHAM.com
County opens alternative fuels depot | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle Monroe County opened a revamped fuel station today to service its alternative fuel fleet. The green station, located on Scottsville Road, is equipped with pumps dispensing hydrogen fuel, both E-85 and E-20 ethanol blends and B-20 biodiesel fuel. (Aug 22, 08) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
Ginna Training Center Completed - 13WHAM.com (Rochester, N.Y.) - A $2 million project to help keep the Ginna Nuclear Power Plant safe is finally finished. (Aug 20, 08) - 13WHAM.com
MPNnow Officials not standing idly by as fuel prices soar RSS Governments are looking for cheaper ways to get around. In Rochester, Mayor Robert Duffy turned in his city-issued Chevy Trailblazer to lease — with his own money — a smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicle to take to ribbon-cuttings, parades and budget meetings. (Aug 17, 08) - Rochester, NY - MPNnow
Testing energy policy -- Page 1 -- Times Union - Albany NY ALBANY - The Public Service Commission is meeting this week to consider Iberdrola SA's $4.5 billion acquisition of Energy East Corp., and its eventual vote on the matter later this month may test one of the state's long-standing energy policies. One of the most contentious issues in the merger of the two utilities is whether Iberdrola, which is based in Spain, should be allowed to own electricity-generating wind farms in New York. (Aug 17, 08) Albany NY News - Times Union - Serving Albany, Saratoga, Schenectady, Troy
New York electricity users may get zapped for $120M | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle A new regulation taking effect this year will cost electricity customers about $120 million annually, according to the state agency responsible for overseeing how the money is spent. (Aug 16, 08) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
Baykeeper urges IJC to act as climate change blamed for low water levels - Climate change is contributing to the lower water levels in the Great Lakes, a member of the International Upper Great Lakes Study's public interest advisory group said Monday. (Aug 15, 08) Midland Free Press - Ontario, CA
Schumer calls for federal investigation into energy trading scam -WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer Tuesday called on the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission immediately conduct an investigation into what he called “an energy trading scam that allowed players in New York State’s energy markets to reap huge profits while passing on sky-high costs to consumers and municipalities.” (Aug 16, 08) New York State News on the Net!
www.News10NBC.com - Energy Act: A political issue and a campaign issue While Americans continue to talk about the price of gas, there is potential progress on the stalled Energy Act in Washington. Congressional Republicans are pushing for a vote - something they hope will further ease gasoline prices, but House Speaker and Democrat Nancy Pelosi effectively blocked a vote 11 days ago by sending Congress home for a five week vacation. (Aug 13, 08) www.News10NBC.com - Rochester, NY News, Weather, Sports, Health, Investigative, Entertainment
Power industry group sees big electricity rate hikes for New Yorkers | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle ALBANY — A new state regulation designed to combat global warming could result in rate hikes of as much as 9 percent for consumers, a spokesman for an industry group said Tuesday. But the state Department of Environmental Conservation disagrees, saying the added cost will be "negligible." (Aug 13, 08) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
www.News10NBC.com - Quiet on the lake It's painful enough to fill up the tank but what if you were burning hundreds of dollars of gas a day? That's the situation for some boaters. (Aug 5, 08) www.News10NBC.com - Rochester, NY News, Weather, Sports, Health, Investigative, Entertainment
Governments hit the brakes on fleets as gas soars The mayor of Rochester, N.Y., is turning in his city-issued sport utility vehicle and buying a smaller car he can take to ribbon-cuttings, parades and budget meetings. (Aug 4, 08) BusinessWeek - Business News, Stock Market & Financial Advice
Schumer seeks incentives for school districts to buy hybrid buses - WASHINGTON - As Upstate New York school districts gear up to welcome students back in just a few weeks and face the increased cost of fuel to transport them on buses, U.S. Senator Charles Schumer Wednesday announced a plan to help school transportation become more fuel efficient by alleviating some of the upfront cost burden of purchasing hybrid buses, which get significantly better gas mileage than a standard yellow bus. (Aug 4, 08) New York State News on the Net!
Cornell researchers ponder feasibility of undertaking algae for biofuel research - Should Cornell researchers undertake the project of studying algae as a source for biofuel, participants at a July 15 topical lunch discussion in Rice Hall pondered. (July 21, 08) Cornell Center for a Sustainable Future - News
Paterson clears path for gas wells | pressconnects.com | Press & Sun-Bulletin Bill addresses environmental concerns, governor says - Natural gas drillers may have to wait a bit before they get down to business in the Southern Tier. Once they do, however, it likely will be a better process for everybody, if a law signed by Gov. David Paterson goes according to plan. (July 24, 08) pressconnects.com | Press & Sun-Bulletin | Binghamton news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Binghamton, New York
www.ny.gov - GOVERNOR PATERSON SIGNS BILL UPDATING OIL AND GAS DRILLING LAW; PLEDGES ENVIRONMENTAL AND PUBLIC HEALTH SAFEGUARDS Governor Directs DEC to Update Environmental Impact Statement - Legislation Will Increase Administrative Efficiency, Without Sacrificing Environmental Protections - Governor David A. Paterson today signed a bill that extends the State’s uniform well spacing system to include additional wells and drilling activity, including horizontal well drilling. The Environmental Conservation Law previously established “spacing units” and “set back” requirements only for some types of drilling activity. A spacing unit is the land area from which a well is expected to recover oil or gas; a setback is the distance that a well must be from the boundaries of the spacing unit. The bill also adds requirements about how wells may be located within spacing units. (July 23, 08) www.ny.gov/governor
Rising fuel costs have ripple effect | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle The reign of the dinosaurs seemingly isn't over after all, since skyrocketing fossil fuel prices are taking T. rex-sized bites out of consumers' wallets and companies' bottom lines. The federal government said last week that the Consumer Price Index had risen 5 percent between June 2007 and last month, the largest 12-month increase since 1991.(July 21, 08) Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
New York state bill could boost fuel output | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle ALBANY — With the stroke of a pen, Gov. David Paterson could give a significant boost to the natural-gas boom in the Southern Tier or slow down the process to better plan for the expected surge in drilling. (July 14, 08)Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
Energy use in county targeted - A new partnership between Monroe County and Rochester Institute of Technology's Golisano Institute for Sustainability will seek to find ways the county can reduce its energy use. (July 12, 08) Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
Rochester-area motorists saving on gas by car pooling | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle With the national average of fuel more than $4 a gallon for almost the past two months and no end in sight, more people are jumping on the car pooling bandwagon. (July 8, 08) Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
Brooks turns up heat in Monroe County buildings to save energy | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle Monroe County employees will be feeling the heat this summer. Not metaphorical heat, but actual sticky, warm conditions. That's because County Executive Maggie Brooks is turning up the thermostat to 78 degrees in county buildings in an effort to save on electricity costs and to conserve energy. (July 6, 08) Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
ENERGY: Politicians intervene in Iberdrola merger - News & Opinion - Rochester City Newspaper Some business leaders and politicians are upset that a state agency is putting roadblocks in the way of a merger between a Spanish power company and RG&E's parent company. (June 26, 08) Rochester City Newspaper
Gas costs fuel local surge of ethanol | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle The bad news: The average cost of a gallon of regular gasoline in New York is pushing $4.30. The good news: Those ridiculous gas prices are helping to rev up parts of the Rochester area's alternative energy industry. ((June 23, 08) Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
TheStar.com | Business | Company blown away by Ontario German firm that makes turbines sees province as central hub to supply wind-power projects (July 21, 08) TheStar.com
Stalled Sale Seeks Power From Wind - NYTimes.com ALBANY — One of the world’s largest energy companies proposed on Tuesday to build hundreds of wind turbines in New York, significantly raising the stakes in a nine-month battle with state regulators over its intended purchase of a power company. (June 4, 08) NYTimes.com N.Y. / Region RSS
E. Bloomfield board gets earful on windmills - Rochester, NY - MPNnow Less than two weeks after a Brace Road resident put up a 133-foot windmill, the Town Board held a hearing Monday on a proposed law that would have outlawed that same windmill. (June 12, 08) - Rochester, NY - MPNnow
New York renewable energy bill gets push | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle A move to provide users of renewable energy some utility-bill relief is undergoing a final push in Albany, with help from some Rochester-area business owners. (June 12, 08) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
www.whec.com - Making changes because of gas prices In Albany Wednesday, New York State Senate Republicans will ask for a suspension of the state gasoline tax. Suspending the tax would cut prices by 32 cents a gallon, but the idea faces opposition in the assembly. State Democrats are worried about the $500 million dollar hole it would create in the state budget. Meanwhile, people in Rochester are taking matters into their own hands. (April 30, 08) www.whec.com
In Brighton, it is easy being green | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle Whether you are one to recycle everything in sight, or just the occasional soda can, the Green Brighton Task Force is challenging area homeowners and businesses to do just a little bit more in order to make our area a cleaner place to live — and "Color Brighton Green." (April 27, 08) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
People benefit from attending energy fair | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle IRONDEQUOIT — Mike Parks said there was a time when people were scared off when he told them what it would cost to install solar or wind power equipment at their homes, but these days the cost of gas and electricity has made them braver. (April 27, 08) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
Solar car arrives in Rochester - The solar car made a stop in Rochester Sunday. The car stopped at RIT in Henrietta Sunday. The solar car is the creation of people from 23 different countries. It runs on 900 watts of energy from its solar panel. Driving the solar car 160 miles actually uses less energy than a toaster. Some attendees say the solar car could be the car of the future. (April 27, 08) RochesterHomepage.net
Rochester One of Few Markets to Test Fuel Cell SUV - ROCHESTER, NY (2008-04-23) As part of her "State of the County" address Tuesday night, Monroe County Executive Maggie Brooks announced that Rochester will be one of just a few metro areas to test a new General Motors fuel-cell powered vehicle. The county will add an electric-drive, fuel cell-powered SUV to its vehicle fleet. The Chevy Equinox turns hydrogen into electricity for power. wxxi NewsRoom
Chesonis splurges on solar power research | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle A Rochester telecommunications magnate and his family are donating $10 million to Massachusetts Institute of Technology to support solar energy research. The Chesonis Family Foundation — the philanthropy of Arunas and Pamela Chesonis — will start the Solar Revolution Project, which will have a goal of helping to make solar energy a viable and mainstream source of power.( April 22, 08) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
Ginna operator cited for alteration | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle Federal regulators have cited the Ginna nuclear power plant's operator for an unauthorized change to emergency plans that could have endangered the public if a serious accident had occurred. The change, made years ago by the plant's former owner, Rochester Gas & Electric Corp., affected how certain kinds of accidents would be classified in terms of severity when they were reported to regulators. (April 13, 08) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
Using dams to make hydrogen - A New York community wants to use its neglected hydro-dam to power a hydrogen making facility. -- Environment Report
The Journal Register (Medina, NY)--SHELBY: Carbon dioxide plant under review SHELBY — Irate residents living within hearing distance of the ethanol facility spoke out against the proposed carbon dioxide plant at the town planning board Tuesday night. Their biggest fear, they say, is that the constant noise and yeast odors caused by the ethanol plant will only worsen. (April 04, 08) The Journal Register (Medina, NY)
Safety status of Ginna will be addressed | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle Federal regulators will present information on their latest safety assessment of the Ginna nuclear power plant at a public meeting today. High on the agenda will be an episode a year ago in which the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission marked down the plant's operator, Constellation Energy, for a shortcoming in emergency preparedness at the nuclear plant in Ontario, Wayne County. (March 25, 08) Democrat & Chronicle
NRC to discuss Ginna nuclear power plant annual assessment at public meeting - ONTARIO - The results of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s annual safety performance assessment for the R.E. Ginna nuclear power plant will be discussed at a public meeting on Tuesday, March 25. The session is scheduled to begin at 2 p.m. at Ontario Town Hall, at 1850 Ridge Road in Ontario, N.Y. ( March 20, 08) New York State News on the Net!
Schumer seeks promises from upstate NY power company deal -- Newsday.com WASHINGTON - Sen. Charles Schumer sought assurances Thursday that a Spanish firm's planned purchase of an upstate power company won't jack up bills for customers. Iberdrola SA is trying to win state regulators' approval for a $4.6 billion acquisition of the regional utility Energy East Corp. The deal would affect 3 million customers from upstate New York to Maine and would put Rochester Electric and Gas Corp. and New York State Electric & Gas Corp. under foreign ownership. (Feb 28, 08) Long Island and New York City news from Newsday.com - A Long Island Newspaper -- Newsday.com
Green cars at auto show - None of the two hundred cars are green colored, but a growing number of them are green. "The alternative fuel vehicles certainly are a very hot topic around town," said Brad McAreavy. Especially now that there are two stations in Rochester that pump ethanol. Inside, at the car show, western New Yorkers will find a wide scope of greenies, from the massive Chevy Tahoe hybrid to the tinier Malibu. (Feb 26, 08) RochesterHomepage.net
New Plans To Boost Renewable Energy In New York - NewsChannel 9 WSYR Albany, New York (WSYR-TV) - Increasing renewable energy here in New York is getting some new attention from the governor's office. A special task force on the topic is out with recommendations to get the process moving. Chief among them, boosting the state's solar and wind power resources. The amount of sunshine in New York is equal to that of Germany, the world's leader in solar energy use. The task force wants to boost solar power capabilities by eight times what they are now in the next four years. (Feb 25, 08) NewsChannel 9 WSYR
www.ny.gov - LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR PATERSON ANNOUNCES ROADMAP TO SIGNIFICANTLY INCREASE RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION IN NEW YORK Lieutenant Governor David A. Paterson, Chairman of the State’s Renewable Energy Task Force, today announced 16 Task Force recommendations as part of a roadmap to significantly increase renewable energy generation in New York. These first recommendations include more solar energy production funding the state’s program to get 25 percent of New York's electricity from renewable energy by 2013 and new business incentives targeted to attract renewable energy producers and expand the State’s “green collar” workforce. (Feb 25, 08) GOV SITE
Rochester Gets 2nd E85 Pump - A second E85 pump in Rochester has some people wondering if the home grown alternative fuel really is the future. The price the 85% ethanol, 15% gasoline blend is what turns most drivers heads first. (Feb 22, 08) R News: As It Happens, Where It Happens
MPNnow Irondequoit purchasing energy-saving computers RSS Irondequoit, N.Y. - At its Feb. 19 business meeting, the Irondequoit Town Board approved the purchase of 138 new computers and monitors for town employees. The new Dell OptiPlex systems have an Energy Star 4.0 rating – the highest possible energy efficiency rating given by the US government (Feb 21, 08) Rochester, NY - MPNnow
RG&E Settles Dispute with State - The state and Rochester Gas and Electric have settled a dispute regarding major upgrades at Russell Station. The state claimed the company did the work in the mid-1980s without installing required pollution controls. (Feb 20, 08) R News: As It Happens, Where It Happens
RG&E’s Russell Station to Close - 13WHAM.com (Rochester, N.Y.) – Rochester Gas and Electric’s Russell Station plant in Greece will be shut down soon, after providing power to the community for 60 years. (Feb 21, 08) http://www.13wham.com/
Settlement announced to close coal-burning Russell power plant - ROCHESTER - Attorney General Andrew Cuomo Wednesday announced a settlement with Rochester Gas and Electric that will require the company to shut down its coal-burning Russell power plant in the Town of Greece in Monroe County. (Feb 21, 08) New York State News on the Net!
CUOMO ANNOUNCES SETTLEMENT TO CLOSE ROCHESTER GAS & ELECTRIC’S COAL-BURNING RUSSELL POWER PLANT Company Pledges to Build Cleaner, State-of-the-Art, Natural Gas Facility ~ Settlement Requires RG&E to Pay $500,000 for Clean Energy Projects in the Rochester Area ROCHESTER, NY (February 20, 2008) – Attorney General Andrew M. Cuomo today announced a settlement with Rochester Gas and Electric (“RG&E”) that will require the company to shut down its coal-burning Russell power plant in the Town of Greece, Monroe County. The agreement also mandates that if RG&E replaces the coal-burning facility, they must build a cleaner, state-of-the-art natural gas plant. As a result of this settlement, thousands of tons of air pollution will be eliminated in the Rochester area annually. (Feb 20, 08) Office of New York State Attorney General Andrew M Cuomo
ENVIRONMENT: Russell power plant to close - News & Opinion - Rochester City Newspaper Attorney General Andrew Cuomo has announced a settlement with RG&E that will require the company to shut down its coal-burning Russell power plant in the town of Greece. Under the settlement, RG&E must permanently shut down the Russell power plant following improvements to power lines and substations, which are expected to be completed in May. If RG&E builds another plant, the settlement requires that this new plant be a state-of-the-art natural gas burning facility. (Feb 20, 08) Rochester City Newspaper
First Ethanol Flowing in Brighton - If you believe some people, it's the wave of the future. But people in our area haven't been able to take advantage of ethanol. (Feb 11, 08) R News: As It Happens, Where It Happens
NRC: No Environmental Reasons to Bar Relicensing NY Nuclear Plant | Markets | Market News | Canadian Business Online SCRIBA, N.Y. (AP) - There are no environmental reasons to prevent extending the James A. FitzPatrick nuclear plant's operating license for another 20 years, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission said Tuesday. To date, the NRC has renewed the licenses of 48 of the nation's 104 nuclear reactors, including the Ginna plant near Rochester and the twin Nine Mile Point reactors that sit in the same Lake Ontario complex with the FitzPatrick plant, Sheehan said. (Jan 29, 08) Canadian Business Online: Breaking financial news and daily top business, company and technology news
Wind turbines stir debate in western New York town HAMLIN, N.Y. (AP) - A wind energy plan in western New York is stirring up debate. Town leaders in Hamlin, 18 miles west of Rochester, plan to vote soon on extending a moratorium on wind farms while they consider the issue. (Jan 15, 07) Home WCAX.com
Studying Fuel Cell Mass Production - Tech leaders in the greater Rochester area believe fuel cell technology can be an economic engine. More federal funding is headed this way to find a way to make that happen. RIT and Delphi will partner to figure out a way to mass produce solid oxide fuel cells in the armed forces. (Jan 07, 07) Messenger Post Newspapers
Brighton residents seek to cut energy use by 10%— Brighton, which today will ask its residents to cut energy use by 10 percent, joins a growing list of municipalities around the nation that are stepping up efforts to help the environment.Organizers are hosting a rally tonight to launch the yearlong campaign and generate interest in recycling and reducing wasted energy. (January 7, 2008) Democrat & Chronicle
Solar panels to help power County Office Building — Monroe County's latest effort to be kinder to the environment won't be cheap, and the return on investment is relatively low. But the county thinks it's worth it. While the cost to install solar panels on the roof of the County Office Building will largely be covered by settlement payments from oil companies, not tax funds, the project will only eliminate about 4 percent of the energy costs generated in the building. (December 19, 2007 Democrat & Chronicle
Auburn to use clean renewable energy to heat, cool municipal buildings =Auburn - Mayor Timothy Lattimore of the City of Auburn, and Roger Kelley, president and chief executive officer, New York Power Authority, Monday announced completion of a comprehensive $3.9 million project that includes a geothermal heating and cooling system, a computerized energy-management network and a variety of energy-efficiency upgrades at 13 city-owned facilities. The project was designed, implemented and installed under the supervision of NYPA’s Energy Services and Technology unit. (Dec 18, 07) New York State News on the Net!
Anti-power-line group gets organized - Rochester, NY - MPNnow Citizens in Naples and South Bristol have organized to lobby against the electrical transmission line Rochester Gas & Electric plans to build from Eelpot Road to Bristol Mountain. Several hundred citizens from Naples, South Bristol, Italy, Cohocton and Rochester have expressed opposition to this power line, said Renae Rennoldson, spokeswoman for the organization. Their main concerns are maintaining the scenic views, wind power involvement, environmental issues and health concerns, she said. (Dec 08, 07) Homepage - Rochester, NY - MPNnow

2007

Local ethanol plant a no-go — A first-of-its-kind ethanol plant won't be constructed in the town of Greece after all. A year ago, then-Gov. George Pataki announced that the state would spend $14.8 million toward construction of the plant in Greece, perhaps positioning the Rochester region as a leader in alternative energy. But the plant instead will be 130 miles east of Rochester, at the former Griffiss Air Force Base outside Rome, Oneida County. A ceremonial start of work on the Mascoma Corp. plant is set for Monday. (December 8, 2007) Democrat & Chronicle
Ethanol Plant Up And Running - New York state's first ethanol plant is up and running in Orleans County. The plant cost $90 million to build and is expected to churn out 50 million gallons of ethanol per year. Western New York Energy built the facility in the town of Shelby. (Dec 3, 07) R News: As It Happens, Where It Happens
CH Energy Group subsidiary to build, operate upstate renewable energy plant - Auburn -- A special purpose subsidiary of CH Energy Group, Inc., CH-Auburn Energy, LLC, has entered into a 15-year contract to supply the City of Auburn in Cayuga County with a portion of its electricity needs by constructing and operating a three-megawatt electric generating plant in Auburn that will use renewable energy from the municipal landfill and wastewater treatment plant. (Nov 30, 07) New York State News on the Net!
Process begins at ethanol plant in Shelby - Western New York Energy is grinding corn at the first alternative facility in the Northeast — SHELBY — Within a few days, the first batch of fuel ethanol produced in the Northeast will be pumped out of a large white tank in rural Orleans County. The Western New York Energy LLC ethanol plant is owned and operated by John M. Sawyer Jr. and his son, Michael Sawyer, both from Geneseo. The plant means new jobs for 50 people, a new market for corn growers and the potential for Rochester-area consumers to have an alternative to gasoline. (November 30, 2007) Democrat & Chronicle
FEDERAL ENERGY DEPT. TO IMPROVE APPLIANCE EFFICIENCY Attorney General Spitzer today announced an agreement under which the federal Department of Energy (DOE) will set new standards to sharply increase the energy efficiency of many types of domestic appliances, such as home ranges and ovens, air conditioners and dishwashers. This action settles a federal lawsuit against DOE brought by New York and a coalition of 14 other states, the City of New York and three public interest groups. 9nov 13, 07) Office of New York State Attorney General Andrew M Cuomo
ATTORNEY GENERAL CUOMO & 5 OTHER STATES DEMAND NRC CONSIDER TERRORISM AND EARTHQUAKES WHEN RELICENSING NUCLEAR PLANTS WHITE PLAINS, NY (November 15, 2007) - Attorney General Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that he and the Attorneys General of five other states have submitted a letter to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) expressing serious concerns about the NRC’s continued disregard of safety issues - including susceptibility to earthquakes or terrorist attacks - when deciding whether to renew the operating license of a nuclear power plant beyond its initial 40 year term. (Nov 15, 07) Office of New York State Attorney General Andrew M Cuomo
globeandmail.com: Ethanol push could threaten water supplies WASHINGTON — When it comes to solving the fossil fuel crisis, it seems like every silver lining comes accompanied by a dark cloud. As attention turns more and more toward using corn and other products to produce ethanol for fuel, experts warn that increased production of these crops could pose a threat to the nation's water supplies. (October 10, 07) globeandmail.com: Canada's National Newspaper
Russell Station plans change — Rochester Gas and Electric Corp. has withdrawn its application to convert Russell Station to a clean coal power plant and will instead go with the option of rebuilding the Greece site as a natural gas power plant. (September 29, 2007) Democrat & Chronicle
Schumer on Russell Station - News - MSNBC.com New York's Senior U.S. Senator is threatening to torpedo a proposed merger between RG&E parent company Energy East and a Spanish energy company, Iberdrola. Senator Chuck Schumer was in Greece Monday. He says he wants assurances that RG&E aging Russell Station, a coal-fired plant, be switched over to clean burning natural gas. (Sept 26, 07) MSNBC - WHEC-TV
Task force reconvenes to promote renewable energy agenda - Albany -- Lieutenant Governor David Paterson, chairman of the State’s Renewable Energy Task Force, joined the other members of the Renewable Energy Task Force in creating a framework for New York to develop and promote renewable energy technologies. The second meeting of the Task Force integrated the work of subcommittees that have met over the course of the year. (Sept. 26, 07) New York State News on the Net!
Senator Schumer Wants Guarantee to Rebuild Russel Power Plant ROCHESTER, NY Senator Charles Schumer says the sale of Rochester Gas and Electric to a Spanish company shouldn't go forward -- until the company agrees to convert R-G-and-E's Russell Station to the latest natural gas burning technology. (2007-09-24) WXXI NewsRoom
Surging debate surrounds the use of 'smart' meters - New electrical gauges will cut costs, say advocates; critics wary ALBANY — As early as next year, some electricity customers in western New York may be able to save money, thanks to new "smart" meters, by doing their laundry and dishes at night or programming their air conditioner to raise the temperature in their homes if power becomes too expensive. Advocates see the new meters as a tool that will help New Yorkers cut their utility bills, reduce the demand for power and help the environment. But critics see a darker side to this idea. They fear that poor and uninformed consumers, who don't have the option of changing the timing of their energy use, will end up paying higher rates on top of a surcharge for a new electric meter they don't need. (August 25, 2007) Democrat & Chronicle
Ruling favors ethanol plant - Court: Romulus project can advance without impact statement — ROMULUS — A state court has ruled that construction of an ethanol plant at the former Seneca Army Depot in Romulus can move forward without an environmental impact statement. Acting State Supreme Court Justice Dennis F. Bender, after hearing arguments last month in Waterloo, ruled Friday that the Finger Lakes Future Alliance, which sought the impact statement, lacked standing in the case. Bender said the alliance, made up of about 100 Seneca County residents, would be no more affected than other area residents. (August 21, 2007) Democrat & Chronicle
Boating Goes Green! Green energy is making its way to the Erie Canal. For the first time a boat is traveling an American canalway using solar electric energy as the primary fuel source. (August 13, 2007) R News: As It Happens, Where It Happens
www.ny.gov - GOVERNOR SPITZER SIGNS INTO LAW NEW ENVIRONMENTAL LEGISLATION PROMOTING PURCHASE OF GREEN VEHICLES Governor Eliot Spitzer today announced that he has signed legislation designed to increase consumer awareness about greenhouse gas emissions. This law requires that automobile manufacturers affix a “global warming index” sticker to new cars and passenger trucks beginning in the 2010 model year, detailing carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions. New York is the second state in the nation to pass this innovative environmental legislation. “Global warming is one of the most serious environmental problems of our generation,” said Governor Spitzer. “Every level of government, every business and every consumer can play a role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This new legislation will help make the public aware of vehicle emission levels so that they can make informed choices that will help reduce greenhouse gas pollution.” (August 3, 07) GOV SITE
New environmental legislation promoting purchase of green vehicles - Albany -- Governor Eliot Spitzer Friday announced that he has signed legislation designed to increase consumer awareness about greenhouse gas emissions. The law requires that automobile manufacturers affix a “global warming index” sticker to new cars and passenger trucks beginning in the 2010 model year, detailing carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions. New York is the second state in the nation to pass this innovative environmental legislation. (August 08, 07) New York State News on the Net!
Local companies cut energy use that's linked to global warming — Wind, not petroleum, makes the energy to power the presses at Monroe Litho. For the past two years, the commercial printer on the edge of Rochester's downtown has purchased all of its electricity from a broker of wind-energy credits, which means that the $21,000 per month that the company spends on juice ends up going to a wind-energy producer that adds power to the national grid. (August 5, 2007)
Brooks and RIT Announce New Green Fleet Vehicle Partnership - Continuing her leadership in protecting the environment, growing our economy and employing our community’s spirit of innovation, Monroe County Executive Maggie Brooks was joined by Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) President William Destler and Nabil Nasr, Director of The Center for Integrated Manufacturing to announce a new partnership between Monroe County and RIT to assess the performance of Monroe County’s E85 flex-fuel vehicles. E85 flex-fuel comprise of 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline that power the flex-fuel vehicles engines. - MyMonroe. Opening Up Government. | Monroe County, NY
ScienceDaily: New Research Seeks To Enhance Alternative Fuel Integration In Public Vehicle Fleets Science Daily — Rochester Institute of Technology and the County of Monroe, New York have created a research partnership to assess the performance of the County’s fleet of E85 flex-fuel vehicles. E85 is comprised of 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline and is considered a major alternative energy option for American automobiles. (July 19, 07) Science Daily: News & Articles in Science, Health, Environment & Technology
CITY WATER OPERATION CENTER RECEIVES AWARD Mayor Robert J. Duffy announced today that the City's Water Operations Center, located at 10 Felix St., has been awarded LEED Gold by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). LEED is the USGBC's leading edge system for designing and constructing the world's greenest, energy efficient, high performing buildings. The Water Operation Center has the distinction of being the first building in Rochester and the first municipal building in the state to be LEED Gold certified. (July18, 07) Welcome to the City of Rochester
RIT to evaluate county's alternative-fuel vehicles — Monroe County and the Rochester Institute of Technology announced a partnership Monday to study the performance of county vehicles running on alternative fuels. The county has stepped up efforts in recent years to use vehicles that run on ethanol. The county has 78 hybrid-electric vehicles and E-85 flex-fuel vehicles, which run on 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline. (July 17, 2007) Democrat & Chronicle
www.ny.gov - RENEWABLE ENERGY TASK FORCE MEMBERS NAMED Lieutenant Governor David A. Paterson today announced the appointment of members to New York's Renewable Energy Task Force. Under Lieutenant Governor Paterson’s leadership, the goal of the Task Force will be to identify and recommend ways of expanding the state’s use of renewable energy and alternative fuels. (June 24, 07) http://www.ny.gov/
Army Depot ethanol plant case goes to court - Group wants environmental impact study - ROMULUS — Principals involved in the proposed construction of a $115 million ethanol plant and accompanying biomass generating facility at the former Seneca Army Depot in the Town of Romulus are headed for a mid-July court appearance. The case, an Article 78 proceeding, one in which actions of a municipal body can be challenged in court, is to open at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 17 in state Supreme Court in Waterloo. Representing the Finger Lakes Future Alliance and others is attorney Wendy A. Marsh of the Hancock & Estabrook law firm of Syracuse. The Harris Beach law firm of Rochester will represent the Town of Romulus. (July 5, 07) The Ithaca Journal
Legislator inaction irks panel on energy - Task force bemoans lawmakers' failure on power plant siting law — ALBANY — The Legislature's recent failure to agree on new regulations for siting power plants is a major impediment to New York's progress in promoting renewable energy, a member of a new state task force said Tuesday. "Article 10 is definitely something that the Legislature and the governor need to bring to completion," said Carol Murphy, executive director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York, referring to a streamlined approval process for power plants that expired in 2002. (June 27, 2007) Democrat & Chronicle
Fuel Cell 2007 Conference in Rochester, New York, Boasts Energy Alternatives - Associated Content One more reason to possibly vote a Democrat in to the White House in 2008 is that party's willingness to promote and make available fuel cell and other alternative energy sources to consumers, as opposed to current administration policy. That's according to fuel cell expert and Senior Research Analyst James Horwitz, the keynote speaker and fuel cell expert, who spoke during the Fuel Cell 2007 Conference at the Hyatt in Rochester New York from June 14 to 15. The People's Media Company - Associated Content
WSTM.com - Demand for ethanol increasing With uncertainty about future costs of gasoline interest in alternative fuels, including the ethanol blend E85, is on the rise and so are the number of stations selling it. (June 19, 07) WSTM.com - WSTM.com Home
Brooks Opens Landmark Waste-to-Watts Power Plant at the Mill Seat Landfill - Monroe County Executive Maggie Brooks was joined by Waste Management District Manager Jeff Richardson as well as local officials to officially open Monroe County’s first-ever public/private partnership gas-to-electric plant at the Mill Seat Landfill in the Town of Riga. The new power plant will produce 4.8 megawatts of power, and turns waste into watts through the utilization of methane gas generated from the Mill Seat Landfill. “The opening of the Mill Seat power plant is another step forward in my administration’s efforts to reduce our community’s dependence on foreign energy resources, and protect the air we breathe, and the water we drink,” said County Executive Brooks. “By turning waste into watts at Mill Seat, we have again tapped our community’s great spirit of innovation to protect our environment, and promote a more sustainable community.” (June 12, 07) MyMonroe. Opening Up Government. | Monroe County, NY
Waste to Watts - RIGA, NY (2007-06-11) Officials flipped the switch Monday to launch Monroe County's first-ever methane gas-to-electric plant at the Mill Seat Landfill. Methane gas produced by decomposing trash inside the landfill is piped into a compression facility where it's processed and then used to power generators. WXXI NewsRoom
County hits switch on landfill-powered plant — With the flick of a switch, Monroe County officials on Monday opened a power plant at the Mill Seat landfill in Riga and hailed their project as a way to turn landfill gas into green energy. The $9.7 million project, bankrolled by the New York Power Authority, this week will begin cranking out electricity and sending it out on the state's power grid. The electricity then would be sold to customers across the state. (June 12, 2007) Democrat & Chronicle
RG&E: RG&E PROPOSES REDEVELOPMENT OF RUSSELL STATION POWER PLANT SITE Rochester, NY, May 1, 2007 – RG&E today informed the New York Independent System Operator (NYISO) that it plans to build a new 300-megawatt (mw) electricity generating plant at the site of Russell Station, the company’s coal-fired power plant in the Town of Greece. The submittal to the NYISO represents the first formal step in siting and building the new power plant. RG&E will operate the current plant until the Rochester Transmission Project (RTP) is completed. The proposed plant will replace the existing plant. (May 1, 07) RG&E: Home Page
Energy East Proposes Redevelopment of Russell Station Power Plant Site PORTLAND, Maine, May 2 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Energy East Corporation's subsidiary Rochester Gas & Electric (RG&E) informed the New York Independent System Operator (NYISO) that it plans to build a new 300-megawatt (mw) electricity generating plant at the site of Russell Station, the company's coal-fired power plant in the Town of Greece. The submittal to the NYISO represents the first formal step in siting and building the new power plant. (May 2, 07) Business, financial, personal finance news - CNNMoney
Club Teaches Reducing Home Energy - There’s plenty buzz about global warming and saving energy and anyone looking at going green. But where do they start. The Sierra Club is running a workshop on reducing energy use at home. It will start with a documentary on two people who have significantly reduced their carbon footprint. “It shows the reasons for their concerns specifically with coal powered electricity,” said Bob Siegel of the Sierra Club. “They show how they were committed to reducing their impact to zero and how in fact they went about doing that. (May 21, 07) R News: As It Happens, Where It Happens
OK for NYSEG ‘smart meters' could come by Sept., peak hours to cost more - New York State Electric & Gas Corp. officials hope to roll out as early as September an advanced metering system they hope will trim their customers' electricity bills and allow the company to better manage demand for electricity. Switching to a “smart meter” system is also a way to protect the environment by reducing the need to build more energy generation sources, said James P. Laurito, president and chief executive officer of NYSEG and Rochester Gas & Electric. ( May 12, 07) The Ithaca Journal - www.theithacajournal.com - Ithaca, NY
Hearings planned on power lines — Rochester has been added as the site of one of a series of federal public hearings on two proposed electricity "transmission corridors." Federal officials said Wednesday that they would expand the public hearings on the designations, which could spur the building of major new power lines in many states regardless of local opposition. (May 10, 2007) Democrat & Chronicle
Energy East Proposes Redevelopment of Russell Station Power Plant Site PORTLAND, Maine, May 2 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Energy East Corporation's subsidiary Rochester Gas RG&E will operate the current plant until the Rochester Transmission Project (RTP) is completed. The proposed plant will replace the existing plant. (May 2,07) The Earth Times Online Newspaper, Serving the Planet
Pills offered to residents near Ginna — For only the second time, Monroe and Wayne counties are offering protective medication to people who live or work within 10 miles of the Ginna nuclear power plant in case of a radiation leak. The federal program, started in the wake of elevated concerns after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, entails giving free potassium iodide to each individual living or working in parts of Wayne County, Webster and Penfield. The over-the-counter medication doesn't protect a person from radiation overall, but it does protect the thyroid from exposure. Ginna is located on the shore of Lake Ontario in Ontario, Wayne County. (May 3, 2007) Democrat & Chronicle
N.Y. may pull plug on incandescent bulbs — ALBANY — An Assembly bill introduced this week could mean lights out for traditional light bulbs. The bill would ban the sale of incandescent light bulbs, the kind that most people use now, by June 2012. Supporters seek to replace traditional filament bulbs that they say contribute to global warming with energy-saving halogen or fluorescent lights. (May 3, 2007) Democrat & Chronicle
Monroe County distributes potassium iodide to Ginna-area residents - Monroe County officials are again distributing potassium iodide – also known as KI – to residents who live within the 10-mile emergency planning zone of the Ginna Nuclear Power plant. The medication – supplied by the state Emergency Management Office – will be provided free at three area Wegmans stores from now through May 25. (May 1, 07) New York State News on the Net!
RG&E to pump $500 million into Greece plant - News - MSNBC.com Rochester Gas and Electric Corp. plans to spend $500 million to re-power the Russell Station coal-burning power plant, officials said this week. The plan reverses the company's decision in 2003 to shut down the 59-year-old facility, which produces 257 megawatts of electricity and some 25 percent of the region's electrical needs. (April 20, 07) MSNBC - Top Stories
Legislators proposing tax break on hybrids - Bipartisan bill would drop state sales levy, let localities do same. ALBANY — Buying a hybrid car can save drivers hundreds of dollars on gasoline, and ownership could get even cheaper if a bill proposed Wednesday becomes state law. Two lawmakers propose to eliminate New York sales tax on the purchase of a new or used hybrid vehicle. The bill also would let cities and counties join in the tax waiver. (April 19, 07) Democrat & Chronicle
Governor announces environmental agenda - Governor Eliot Spitzer Thursday announced a comprehensive plan for reducing energy costs and curbing pollution in New York. This approach sets New York apart with the most aggressive energy efficiency goal in the nation while reducing greenhouse gas emissions throughout the state. The plan focuses on energy efficiency, conservation, and investment in renewable energy sources as the keys to achieving economic and environmental goals. (April 20, 2007) New York State News on the Net!
Xerox Redesigns Products for Lower Energy Use, Meeting Tough New EPA ENERGY STAR Criteria - ROCHESTER, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 12, 2007--Over the past two years, Xerox Corporation scientists and engineers have trained their sights on developing products that use significantly less energy. The payoff: More than half of the company's office and production product offerings meet the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's rigorous new ENERGY STAR(R) requirements that went into effect on April 1. http://www.csrwire.com/
County Plans Ethanol Plant - Turning beer waste into ethanol is Monroe County's plan. Now it has to figure out a way to pick up the tab. Monroe County Executive Maggie Brooks announced the ethanol plant would be built at High Falls Brewery. R News: As It Happens, Where It Happens
Brooks Joined GM to Unveil Fuel-Cell Vehicle - Monroe County Executive Maggie Brooks joined General Motors to unveil the company’s new Chevy Equinox Fuel Cell vehicle. The fuel cell system powering the vehicle is the result of the work of researchers at General Motors’ Honeoye Falls facility. MyMonroe. Opening Up Government. | Monroe County, NY
FERC approves new license for Niagara Power plant - The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Thursday approved a new 50-year license for the Niagara Power Project. This is the final federal step in moving the funding secured in a settlement agreement between Buffalo and Erie County and the New York Power Authority, which operates the Niagara Plant. (March 16, 2007) New York State News on the Net!
From Brewery to Gas Tank—Ethanol Plant Proposed - 13WHAM.com Right now it just goes into the sewer, but Monroe County has ideas for turning the beer byproduct into energy. (March 04, 07) 13WHAM.com
Cool Cars Fuel Rochester Economy - 13WHAM.com (Rochester, N.Y.) -- Visitors to the Greater Rochester Car Show learned that many of these cars of the future are not only shiny and cool-looking, but that are good for both the environment and for the local economy. (March 2, 07) 13WHAM.com
N.Y. gas stations already use ethanol, but it'll become even more common — You probably don't know it, but you're likely already using ethanol. Gas stations in the Northeast have switched from the additive MTBE to a 10 percent ethanol blend, based on concerns about MTBE's impacts on health. (January 28, 2007) Democrat & Chronicle
Ethanol potential fuels high hopes - Eyes focus on upstate as it emerges as alternative fuel hot spot — In a snowy field outside Medina, two circular tanks rise out of the ground while construction workers dig and lay railroad track. By November, the owners of Western New York Energy LLC say a new plant will begin taking corn and turning it into more than 50 million gallons of fuel annually. (January 28, 2007) Democrat & Chronicle
$10M grant to fund research, infrastructure - ITHACA — Cornell University announced Friday that it has received a $10 million grant from the state that will aid in developing technology for industrial-scale production of ethanol. Cornell will use $6 million of the money from the Empire State Development Corp. to turn a 1950s-era workshop on the first floor of Riley-Robb Hall into state-of-the-art labs. Related state-of-the-art equipment will be bought with the remaining $4 million. (Jan 22, 07) The Ithaca Journal - www.theithacajournal.com - Ithaca, NY
Brooks Joins NYPA Officials to Announce State Investment in Mill Seat - Monroe County Executive Maggie Brooks was joined by State Senator James S. Alesi, New York Power Authority (NYPA) Trustee Michael Townsend, Waste Management District Manager Jeff Richardson and other local officials to announce a $200,000 state grant and $9.5 million in low-cost financing from the NYPA to assist construction of the County’s Landfill Gas to Electricity plant. The $9.7 million project will produce 4.8 megawatts of power. “This innovative project offers environmental and economic benefits,” said County Executive Brooks. “Harnessing the energy in the landfill allows us to access a productive source of power. With the state grant and NYPA low-cost financing, Monroe County taxpayers will benefit from this initiative for many years to come.” --from MyMonroe. Opening Up Government. | Monroe County, NY
Riga power plant gets boost - New York Power Authority to supply low-cost financing, grant - — The New York Power Authority will bankroll the $9.7 million construction of a power plant at the Mill Seat landfill in Riga, officials announced Thursday. Monroe County officials are eager to generate excitement about its plan to use landfill gas to produce power to sell on the electric grid. Already, the county in its 2007 budget banks on selling the energy upfront for 10 years at a cost of $4 million to $5 million. Rather than make $300,000 a year or so in profits on the county-owned plant, the county wants to take the money in a lump sum to cover this year's deficit. (January 19, 2007) Democrat & Chronicle
MPNnow.com: Energy, development and politics Electricity will flood the school district in the early part of the year and elections will dominate in late 2007. EAST ROCHESTER – From the hum of electricity at the school to neighborhood development – several issues that made headlines in 2006 will see print again as East Rochester moves through 2007. When the switch is finally flipped sometime in January, the East Rochester school district will be generating its own electricity. In October, a roughly 16-ton fuel cell was placed in the outdoor courtyard area in front of the school. The cell — which is 10 feet long, 18 feet wide and 10 feet high — goes through a process that converts natural gas into electricity. (Jan. 4, 2007) MPNnow.com: Rochester and Western Finger Lakes News, Entertainment, Sports, Opinions, Photos and More
Researchers Will Work With Cellulosic Ethanol Plant Susan Powers, associate dean for Research and Graduate Studies at Clarkson's Coulter School of Engineering, was paying special attention today when Governor Pataki announced that $24 million was being awarded to two companies for the development and construction of the state's first cellulosic ethanol plants. That's because Powers and other environmental researchers and students at Clarkson will participate in the project with Mascoma Corporation, one of the companies receiving the state funding. Mascoma, with the help of a $14 million grant from the governor, will build a 500,000-gallon-a-year cellulosic ethanol pilot facility in Greece, near Rochester. (January 06, 07) Energy News from EnergyDaily.com

2006

Rochester - The new ethanol: hope or hype? - Rochester gets in on the next big thing in biofuels - News & Opinion - News articles - City Newspaper Energy -It's the holy grail of renewable-energy research: a liquid fuel that can be harvested sustainably, burned cleanly, and doesn't come from an unstable part of the world. And maybe, just maybe, it will be manufactured at a plant near you. The fuel in question is ethanol. Specifically, cellulosic ethanol. Ethanol is an alcohol made from fermenting sugar that can be burned as a fuel in internal combustion engines. Rochester - News, Music, Restaurants, Events, Arts and Entertainment Newspaper - City Newspaper
New Energy Plant to Rochester - Alternative energy advocates tout cellulosic ethanol as the next big thing. The Rochester area is ready to be part of it. Governor Pataki delivered $25.2 million in state funding for a new cellulosic ethanol plant. Corn is the main ingredient in most ethanol produced in our country, but cellulosic ethanol can be made from grass and wood. (December 21, 2006) R News: As It Happens, Where It Happens
Over $25 million dedicated for development of two cellulosic ethanol facilities - Governor George Pataki Wednesday announced that two companies have been selected to develop and construct pilot commercial cellulosic ethanol facilities in New York State. The state has awarded a total of up to $25.2 million to the companies to increase the production of clean and renewable fuels and reduce our dependence on imported energy. One of the companies – Mascoma Corporation – will build a 500,000 gallon/year facility in the Town of Greece, Monroe County. This project, which is a collaborative effort with Genencor, an enzyme company in Greece, along with Clarkson University, Cornell, and Khosla Ventures, has been awarded a $14,800,000 State grant and will include more than $15 million in private investment. (December 21, 2006) New York State News on the Net!
Agreement reached for advanced clean coal plant in western New York - Governor George Pataki Wednesday announced the conditional award of a power purchase agreement that would support plans by NRG Energy to construct an advanced clean coal power plant in western New York that would help to reduce our dependence on imported energy. The agreement is part of a strategic alliance being developed between the State and NRG to help the company obtain the necessary financial resources to build a clean coal facility at its Huntley Generating Station in the Town of Tonawanda, Erie County. (December 21, 2006) New York State News on the Net!
Pioneer fuel plant to be built in Greece - State to help finance $29.8M ethanol site that doesn't use corn.— A $14.8 million state grant will help build a next-generation ethanol plant in Greece that will be the first of its kind in the United States and could position the region as a leader in a growing field. Gov. George Pataki and other officials made the announcement Wednesday. In a swing across upstate, Pataki unveiled several projects aimed at making the state a leader in alternative energy development. (December 21, 2006) Democrat & Chronicle
MPNnow.com: Alternative energy: The new gold rush Decayed Corn Belt and Rust Belt communities have seen the future and it's ... ethanol! The gleaming $110 million ethanol plant is still rising over their cornfields, but locals in Heron Lake, Minn. say it’s already the best thing to happen here in decades. Farmers and other residents plunked down a minimum of $20,000 each to buy stock in the plant, and the electric co-op kicked in a $740,000 loan. The Hotel Whiskey Bar & Grill fills up on some nights with the plant’s construction workers. And Mayor John Hay figures the plant will triple his city’s tax base, making it possible to upgrade area roads and fix the leaky roof on the city-owned nursing home. (December 4, 2006) Messenger Post Newspapers
Brooks Launches New Energy Initiatives - Monroe County Executive Maggie Brooks announced the first in a series of new County initiatives designed to reduce the County’s energy-related expenses, while both preserving the environment and utilizing new sources of homegrown renewable energy. The announcement, held at Winslow Elementary School in Henrietta, highlighted the theme of education in the promotion of renewable energy resources within Monroe County. (October 18, 2006) Democrat and Chronicle
WXXI: Fuel Cell Development Center Will Come to RIT ROCHESTER, NY (2006-10-06) Congresswoman Louise Slaughter says the federal government will put one-point-35 million dollars into fuel cell development programs at the Rochester Institute of Technology. (2006-10-06) Public NewsRoom
East Rochester school getting new power source - District hopes to have fuel cell in operation next month— EAST ROCHESTER — The East Rochester Union Free School District has begun laying the groundwork for its new energy source. The concrete foundation for the district's 200-kilowatt hydrogen fuel cell is expected to be installed within a couple of days, said Michael Mamo, assistant superintendent for business. Plumbers have also begun running pipes from the boiler room into the area where the fuel cell will be housed on the district's campus.(September 12, 2006) Democrat and Chronicle
WXXI: Hybrid Buses Coming for Rochester (2006-07-19) Public transportation authorities in New York are increasingly turning to hybrid diesel-electric buses to cut costs amidst rising fuel prices. Four such buses went into service in Westchester County this week, and the Rochester area will not be far behind. The Rochester-Genesee Regional Transportation Authority expects to launch 19 hybrid diesel-electric buses next May. The buses were ordered from Gillig Corporation of San Francisco, California this spring. Public NewsRoom
Ginna's Output to Increase by 16% - Constellation Energy plans to boost the output of Wayne County's Ginna Nuclear Power Plant. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission approved a 16.8 percent capacity increase, from 525 to 610 megawatts of electricity.(July 12, 2006) R News: As It Happens, Where It Happens
Area hopes to catch a lift off fuel cell event - For several years, officials have played up the Rochester region's prominence in fuel cell research. Next June, Rochester will have a chance to show off. Rochester will host the Fuel Cell 2007 trade show, a gathering of some of the top technical minds in the growing field, Greater Rochester Enterprise and Fuel Cell magazine publisher Webcom Communications announced. At least 300 out-of-town attendees are expected at the June 13-14 show at the Hyatt Regency. (July 8, 2006) Democrat & Chronicle
City buses to use cleaner fuel - Some experts say less-polluting diesel could improve health - — Rochester's public buses will be switching to a new, less polluting diesel fuel formulation this fall. A vote taken by the Rochester Genesee Regional Transportation Authority board of commissioners this week unanimously approved the switch to ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel. The change — which will affect all 225 public buses and the nearly 28,000 gallons of fuel they burn every week — should be complete by October, said Jacquie Halldow, director of communications for the authority. (August 12, 2006) Democrat and Chronicle
Ginna plant gets safety approval from NRC - Annual report has some 2005 concerns, none serious — The Robert E. Ginna Nuclear Power Plant in Ontario, Wayne County, has operated safely for another year. Inspectors from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission presented an annual report Tuesday listing 10 safety concerns that occurred during 2005, though none rose to the level of serious risk. The report was the result of "thousands of hours" of equipment inspections, environmental monitoring and constant observation, said Dave Holm, the plant's general manager. (May 10, 2006) Democrat and Chronicle
State spurs ethanol plant - Work at Orleans County site may start in June, be first in N.Y. -— SHELBY — Construction on the state's first ethanol plant could begin as early as next month, helping to turn New York into a leader in alternative fuel production, Gov. George Pataki and other officials said here Monday. New York will spend nearly $6 million to help the process along, officials said. (May 9, 2006) Democrat and Chronicle
Sierra Club speakers urge change - Fears of global warming prompts call to live within limits — Antarctic ice is melting at an alarming rate, high ocean temperatures are spawning monster storms, and average global temperatures in 2005 were the warmest on record. Climate change is here, said speakers at the eighth annual Sierra Club Environmental Forum. It would be easy to become overwhelmed with hopelessness, facing a challenge with the potential to transform daily life for everyone on Earth — but emerging technology offers hope for the future if we can change our mindset, they said Thursday. (April 22, 2006) Democrat and Chronicle
'Gold rush' for biofuel plants beginning upstate - Quest for clean energy gains momentum - If every day is a learning experience, then Jason Masters knows how to pay attention to the lessons that matter most. The native of Livonia, Livingston County, was a greenhouse gas scientist working in the Middle East in the 1990s when he had several chances to speak to Arab sheiks — people whose lives revolve around oil. Not surprisingly, the conversation frequently would turn to energy. But the sheiks didn't want to talk about the commodity that had made them rich and powerful. Instead, they were most interested in alternatives to petroleum. That was enough to get Masters thinking like an entrepreneur. Largely because of the sheiks' interest, the 36-year-old has joined a "gold rush" of entrepreneurs in greater Rochester and across the nation seeking opportunity from the field of alternative energy. (March 26, 2006) Democrat and Chronicle
WXXI: U.S. Energy Secretary Tours Fuel Cell Center (2006-02-23) HONEOYE FALLS, NY (2006-02-23) The U.S. Secretary of Energy stood in front of a fuel-cell powered minivan in Honeoye Falls Thursday afternoon and said children born this year should be able to take their drivers' tests in a hydrogen powered car. wxxi NewsRoom
Hybrid vehicles' appeal still growing New tax credits mean that buying a hybrid vehicle this year could save you more than $5,000. And putting that car on the road could keep thousands of pounds of greenhouse gases out of the atmosphere. Tax credits With the start of 2006, buyers of hybrids became eligible for up to $3,400 in federal tax credits, depending upon the vehicle's emissions and fuel efficiency. However, only 60,000 buyers of each model will receive the credit, so industry analysts predict that the benefit could run out on popular models by midsummer. Gov. George Pataki has also proposed continuing a state tax credit of $2,000 for hybrid owners and offering discounts on tolls and other incentives to drivers of particularly efficient vehicles.- (January 19, 2006) — Democrat and Chronicle
13WHAM-TV || Rochester - Fuel Cell Technology – The Next Big Energy Alternative? Using fuel cells and renewable energy technology, Rochester Institute of Technology researchers are already working on ways to give cars thousands more miles of life. It’s part of their effort to find ways to make fuel cells affordable and make them practical for everyday life. (January 23, 2006) 13WHAM-TV || Rochester
Few attend hearings on nuclear plants The Nuclear Regulatory Commission should consider the environmental impact of Nine Mile Point's nuclear plants on zebra mussels, said one speaker at a meeting Thursday night at Scriba Town Hall. The comment was one of several made by five people who attended public meetings held by the federal nuclear agency to review the environmental impact of renewing Constellation Energy's licenses for its two nuclear plants in Oswego County. (November 18, 2005) Syracuse.com
Is Ethanol New York's Future? - Could ethanol be New York's future cash cow? New York State Agriculture Commissioner Nathan Rudgers said there are about two million acres of former farmland in New York that could be used to grow crops to make ethanol. http://www.rnews.com
WXXI: Groups Want Dirty Power Plants Cleaned Up (2005-07-26) ALBANY, NEW YORK (2005-07-26) Environmental groups say six of the top ten dirtiest power plants in the Northeast are located in New York State. They are urging Governors of Northeastern states, who are working on a pollution reduction pact, to come up with strict new rules to curb emissions. A report, using data from the US Department of Energy, found a small number of dirty power plants in the northeastern United States are responsible for producing over half of the pollution in the region that is associated with global warming. Those plants include Dunkirk and Huntley in Western New York, Northport, on Long Island, and Roseton, in Newburgh, in the Hudson Valley. All of the plants are decades old and were grand fathered in under the federal clean air act. It was assumed at the time that the plants would eventually close, and newer, cleaner plants would take their place. Melinda Sobin, of the New York Public Interest Research Group, says that hasn't happened. She says the result is dirtier air, and inefficient power plants. wxxi NewsRoom

2005

EPA Orders Ethanol Use in Gasoline - Gas prices in New York State could go up as much as eight cents per gallon soon. The federal government ordered New York and two other states to continue using ethanol as a gasoline additive. The additive is made with corn and is designed to reduce air pollution. 06/03/05 R News: As It Happens, Where It Happens
ER Schools Wants to Use Fuel Cell -East Rochester residents learned more about the school district's proposal to use alternative power. The district wants to install a hydrogen fuel cell to produce electricity. (May 10, 2005) R News: As It Happens, Where It Happens
Renewable Energy Could Bring Jobs - A new report from New York State's comptroller says thousands of jobs could be created if the state were to step up its commitment to generating more electricity through renewable sources. The report calls for the state to expand solar, wind and hydropower, as well as develop crops like corn and soybeans that can be processed into fuel. Comptroller Alan Hevesi says that 43,000 jobs could be created by 2013. There are about 170 renewable energy companies in the state. (March 2005) R News: As It Happens, Where It Happens
Ethanol Could Boost Area Corn Crop - New York farmers may soon help lower prices at the pump. Ethanol, which is found in gasoline, can be produced from corn. Empire Biofuels is planning on building an ethanol plant in Seneca Falls. The company expects to break ground this September.(March, 2005) R News: As It Happens, Where It Happens
Holley studies ethanol plant - — HOLLEY — Officials from the village of Holley, the town of Murray and the Orleans County Economic Development Agency visited an ethanol-producing plant in South Dakota late last month to prepare for the possibility that a biofuel manufacturer may want to build at Holley's 95-acre business park. (March 6, 2005) Democrat and Chronicle
Tax credits might be available for ethanol operation - SENECA FALLS — Investors in an ethanol plant planned for Seneca Falls believe they may be eligible for new tax credits proposed by Gov. Pataki in his budget address Tuesday. The spending plan calls for offering a tax credit of up to $1 million annually for the next five years for producers of biofuels such as ethanol, which is made from corn and provides a safe, renewable fuel source.(January 22, 2005) Finger Lakes Times Geneva, NY
Jan. 26 conference will examine western N.Y.'s 'air power' future. - Jan. 26 conference will examine western N.Y.'s 'air power' future. — BATAVIA — Wind power is coming to western New York, apparently in a big way. As farmers and other land owners have been asked in recent months to sell, lease or use their land to harness wind energy, a Jan. 26 conference, sponsored by Cornell Cooperative Extension and Genesee Community College, aims to answer questions about the issue. If you go What: Wind energy conference. When: 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 26. - Where: Genesee Community College, 1 College Road, Batavia. Registration: Must be made by Jan. 20. Call Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County at (585) 343-3040, ext. 112, or visit the extension office at 420 E. Main St., Batavia. Registration also can be done at www.cce.cornell.edu/genesee . (January 17, 2005) Democrat and Chronicle

2004

MSNBC - Corn farmers to build ethanol plant in Seneca County Rochester, NYUSA - SYRACUSE, N.Y. (AP) - A group of New York farmers announced plans Friday to build an $80 million plant in the upstate Finger Lakes region to convert corn to ethanol, a gasoline additive that helps fuel burn cleaner (October 31, 2004) MSNBC - News Front Page
Storm clouds gather over wind power farms - (October 16, 2004) — Just south of Rochester, a fight is brewing that will likely be repeated in New York many times in the next decade. At issue is wind power, a source of renewable energy that now accounts for only 1 percent of electricity used statewide. (October 16, 2004) Democrat and Chronicle
Democrat & Chronicle: 1,000th customer catches the wind RG&E plan brings in power on the breeze. To learn more
For more information on RG&E's Catch the Wind, call (877) 743-9463 or go online to www.rge.com. — The winds of fortune were with Nancy Runser of Fairport this week. The stay-at-home mother of three was named the 1,000th customer for Catch the Wind. The Rochester Gas and Electric Corp. program, announced in April, offers a way for customers to buy wind-generated electricity. Most power is generated from such sources as coal, natural gas and nuclear energy. (October 1, 2004) Democrat and Chronicle
An alternative energy source: Newark High gets solar panels - NEWARK — Newark High School will soon become one of the first schools in the region to use solar energy. A series of solar panels was installed on the roof of the Peirson Avenue school this week that will provide electricity to a pair of science classrooms. The school received a $30,000 grant state to complete the project, funded by the New York State Energy Research Development Authority. (September 29, 2004) Finger Lakes Times Geneva, NY
Democrat & Chronicle: RIT gets grant for emissions project — HENRIETTA — Rochester Institute of Technology's Kate Gleason College of Engineering has received $222,612 from the state Energy Research and Development Authority to develop a particulate trap to clean diesel, coal and gasoline engine emissions. (August 14, 2004) Democrat and Chronicle
environment: The COST of keeping COOL - We turned to Bob Siegel, chairman of the conservation committee with the Sierra Club of Rochester for some helpful energy saving tips for the summer. First, Siegel recommends that consumers look for “Energy Star” stickers when shopping for air conditioners and other home appliances. Products with these stickers have passed strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Department of Energy, will conserve energy and save the consumer money. insider - Rochester remixed
Democrat & Chronicle: State's proposal for green energy welcomed here — At a public hearing Thursday, 20 area citizens commented on a state proposal that would require New York to get 25 percent of its electricity from renewable sources by 2013. Speaking at Henrietta Town Hall, 19 of the 20 were in favor of the so-called Renewable Energy Portfolio Standard, a green-energy requirement already in place with varying required percentages in 13 other states. (June 18, 2004) Democrat and Chronicle
Democrat & Chronicle: Beads may one day fuel our cars — ALFRED — Drivers might put a stream of tiny glass beads — instead of a tiger — in their tanks in the not-too-distant future. Two Alfred University professors have received a $2 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy to develop technology that would use such beads as a way to store the hydrogen that would power upcoming generations of cars. (June 14, 2004) Democrat and Chronicle
Ginna Changes Owners - The Ginna Nuclear Power Plant in Wayne County is now operated by a new company. (June 13, 2004) WOKR-TV 13 || ROCHESTER
Democrat & Chronicle: Deal closes on sale of Ginna — The Robert E. Ginna nuclear power plant in Wayne County has a new owner. Constellation Energy Group Inc. closed on the deal today, according to Constellation and Energy East Inc., parent company of Rochester Gas and Electric Corp. (June 10, 2004) Democrat and Chronicle
Democrat & Chronicle: Plan pushes renewable energy A proposal wants 25% of electricity sold to be from green power by 2013.- — By 2013, 25 percent of the electricity sold in New York should come from renewable resources, such as hydropower, wind, solar and biomass. That’s the gist of a recommendation made Thursday by Eleanor Stein, an administrative law judge with the New York state Department of Public Service. (June 4, 2004) Democrat and Chronicle
Brooks Announces Bold Energy Initiative - County Executive Maggie Brooks, fulfilling another pledge she made to the community last year, today announced a bold new County initiative designed to reduce Monroe County energy related expenses while fostering greater reliance on homegrown renewable energy. The announcement also establishes an Energy Policy Advisory Team that will develop an overall program to optimize energy management and cost efficiencies... (March 23, 2004) Monroe County
Democrat & Chronicle: Reynolds eyes oil reserves— GREECE — Rep. Thomas Reynolds, expressing concern about rising gasoline prices, called Saturday for the federal government to temporarily halt shipments of crude oil to the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, the nation’s emergency store of oil. (March 21, 2004) Democrat and Chronicle

2003

RG&E finds a buyer for Ginna - Nuclear plant being sold for $422.6 million -— Rochester Gas and Electric Corp. has agreed to sell its Robert E. Ginna nuclear power station for $422.6 million to one of the nation’s largest wholesale power suppliers. (November 26, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Study: Natural gas prices could shoot up this winter It could cost some people more to stay warm this winter. The Natural Gas Supply Association blames higher prices for a potential rise in the cost of natural gas. The industry trade group says utilities replenished their supplies this summer, paying about 15 percent more than a year ago. (October 3, 2003) MSNBC Local News
Democrat & Chronicle: RIT researcher envisions an electric-car future — HENRIETTA - It’s the year 2025. Streets and highways are bustling with electric cars. And because less money is being sent to Middle East nations for their oil, Americans have billions more dollars in their pockets. That’s the picture painted by one Rochester Institute of Technology researcher. (June 30, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Democrat & Chronicle: Pataki proposes changes in siting of power plants — ALBANY — Gov. George Pataki on Friday proposed extensive changes to how power plants are planned and operated in New York with an eye to protecting poor and minority neighborhoods from getting more than their share of facilities. The measure, if approved by the Legislature, could bring needed power to the state to help an economic recovery, Pataki said. (June 7, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Democrat & Chronicle: Bumpy start to NY fuel additive ban (May 12, 2003) — ALBANY — A New York state Senate committee will question fuel industry officials this week about their apparent unpreparedness to sell gasoline without the additive MTBE in it starting Jan. 1, 2004. (May 12, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle

2002

Democrat & Chronicle: Geneva colleges tap into wind farm electricity (August 7, 2002) — GENEVA — Winds blowing across western New York rustle tree leaves at the Hobart and William Smith Colleges campus and make student Frisbees fly that much farther. They also will help keep the lights burning. (August 7, 2002) Democrat and Chronicle:
WXXI: Schumer Says Keeping Cool Is Paying Off (2002-08-06) The state's "Keep Cool" energy program is getting results according to U.S. Senator Charles Schumer. The program which is designed to save energy, provides consumers with rebates of 75-dollars for turning-in their old air conditioners and purchasing new energy efficient models with the "energy star" label. It is administered by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, also known as (NYSERDA). (August 6, 2002) Public NewsRoom
Democrat & Chronicle: Pataki announces, Dems criticize, NY nuclear review — Gov. George Pataki announced Thursday that a former director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency has been hired to review emergency planning for New York's nuclear power plants, including Rochester Gas & Electric's Gina plant. Since Sept. 11, fear of terrorism at the Indian Point in Buchanan, has turned emergency planning, and especially the adequacy of the evacuation plan, into a hot-button issue in the lower Hudson Valley (August 1, 2002) Democrat and Chronicle:
Democrat & Chronicle: RG&E meets record need on a very hot day — Rochester Gas and Electric Corp. recorded an all-time electricity peak usage at 3 p.m. Monday during one of the hottrest days of the year. (July 223, 2002) DemocratandChronicle.com
Natural gas potential lures firms A West Virginia company is the latest to search for natural gas in the region. GORHAM - Energy companies are rediscovering New York state as a source of natural gas. After hearing how successful other companies were at finding natural gas in western New York, Triana Energy did its own research and decided to set up shop in Gorham. (July 18, 2002) Daily Messenger
GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES NEW BUILDING, ENERGY CODES FOR NEW YORK Governor George E. Pataki has announced that beginning today, builders and developers may now use new comprehensive building and energy codes that will reduce development costs, increase job opportunities and provide a major incentive for new investment, construction and economic development in cities, towns and villages throughout New York State. Today's announcement marks the culmination of a several year project initiated to overhaul New York State's building, fire prevention and energy codes. "The code will encourage both new development and the rehabilitation of existing buildings, which is key to revitalizing our downtowns," Governor Pataki said. "It also provides code enforcement and fire officials, design professionals, builders and contractors with a set of requirements that are consistent with the rest of the country. This updated code will help to ensure that our homes and workplaces are not only safe, but energy efficient as well." (July 10, 2002) Press Releases 2002 from NYS Governor
RG&E Says Ready for Summer AC Demand ROCHESTER, NY (2002-05-28) Rochester Gas and Electric says it won't have any problem meeting electric power demands this summer, even if customers set new records for electricity as they have each August for the past two years. (May 29, 220) Public NewsRoom
Democrat & Chronicle: Ford displays its fuel cell car — Ford Motor Co. drove an example of its hydrogen fuel cell technology into town Wednesday. The auto maker showed off a Ford Focus powered by hydrogen at Frontier Field. The car is touring the country and was on display at Frontier Field during the Rochester Red Wings' game against the Buffalo Bisons. (May 29, 220) DemocratandChronicle.com
Democrat & Chronicle: Schumer wants oil reserves used to avoid higher gas prices — NEW YORK -- Sen. Charles Schumer is calling on President George Bush to draw from the country's oil reserves to prevent a rise in gas prices and to counter threats from the Middle East. "There's an answer to high gas prices, there's an answer to the production suspensions from Iraq, to the political instability of Venezuela, and to the threats from OPEC -- it's called the Strategic Petroleum Reserve," Schumer said Sunday at a press conference. (April 15, 2002) DemocratandChronicle.com
Nevada governor vetoes Bush on nuclear waste site Congress has 90 days to act In the first-ever veto of a president by a governor, Nevada Gov. Kenny Guinn on Monday overturned President Bush’s decision to designate a Nevada mountain bunker as the nation’s nuclear waste repository. But the veto doesn’t end the debate — in fact, it now means that Congress must approve or reject the Yucca Mountain site within 90 days. (April 7, 2002) Environment Front Page 3:15 PM ET Tuesday, April 09, 2002
Democrat & Chronicle: School's heat well grounded — When the Densmore Road Middle School opens in 2003, students there will bask in the comfort of heat drawn from deep underground. The school will be one of only three in the area that harnesses the Earth's relatively constant underground temperature with geothermal heating and cooling as a way to provide efficient, inexpensive climate control. (April 5, 2002) DemocratandChronicle.com
Democrat & Chronicle: Gas prices on the rise Gasoline prices have started to climb in recent weeks, and the spike is being blamed on rising crude oil prices and shrinking gasoline supplies. Locally, the average price of self-regular unleaded was $1.32 on Thursday, up 12 cents from two weeks ago. (March 22, 2002) DemocratandChronicle.com
Feds: Ship nuclear waste down the Hudson Highly radioactive nuclear waste would be shipped over several years from the nuclear plants in Buchanan down the Hudson River through the Port of New York en route to Nevada, as part of the U.S. Department of Energy's national waste-storage plan. The shipments are detailed in a proposal to be considered in the spring when Congress votes on President Bush's plan to open a national repository for nuclear waste under Nevada's Yucca Mountain in 2010. The Energy Department's environmental impact report states that thousands of shipments of radioactive fuel would go through 15 commercial ports during a 38-year period. (March 19, 2002) THE JOURNAL NEWS: A Gannett Suburban webpaper
Senate Running On Empty on Fuel Economy -- Press Release from Alliance to Save Energy The Alliance to Save Energy today slammed the Senate's 62 to 38 vote today stripping major energy legislation of meaningful fuel economy standards and demanded that the bill (S. 517) not leave the Senate without addressing America's oil dependence. (March 14, 2002) Alliance to Save Energy--Third Decade of Leadership
Senator Clinton proposes legislation to improve security at nuclear power plants - Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton, (D) New York, is calling for immediate legislation and a budget increase to improve security at nuclear power plants (February 20, 2002) MSNBC Local News
Ginna Back Up And Running A problem with a water pump prompted RG&E to shut down the plant Tuesday as a precaution (Thursday, February 07, 2002) iKnowRochester.com
Shutdown at Ginna — Rochester Gas and Electric Corp. has shut down its Robert E. Ginna nuclear power station in Ontario, Wayne County because of a problem with a circulating water pump. (February 6, 2002) DemocratandChronicle.com
Canada's nuclear security questioned The reactors on Lake Ontario could tempt terrorists, critics say - There are signs that security at nuclear reactors across the border in Canada is not as strict as the measures at the 103 U.S. reactors. (Wednesday, January 2, 2002) DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE

2001

Help with Heating Bills With winter weather on the way, many homeowners are worried about paying more money on their heating bill. But there is help from New York state(Saturday, December 22, 2001) RNews.com
No drilling in Finger Lakes forest HECTOR -- The U.S. Forest Service yesterday turned down a bid by drilling companies from Texas and West Virginia to tap a rich natural gas reservoir beneath the Finger Lakes National Forest, the only national forest in New York. (Thursday, December 20, 2001) DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE
N.Y. Senators Propose Ban On Finger Lakes Drilling Rochester, NY - US Senators Charles Schumer and Hillary Rodham Clinton have introduced legislation to institute a permanent ban on drilling in the Finger Lakes National Forest, the only national forest in New York State and the smallest in the country. (Wednesday, December 19, 2001) iKnowRochester.com
Report Says Good Things Will Come From Renewable Fuels Standard WASHINGTON, December 10, 2001 - A new report that focuses on the impacts to the US if a renewable fuels standard is implemented says energy security would increase, the economy would feel a boost, and farmers would benefit from selling their crops to make fuel. Fuels Association (RFA), National Corn Growers Association (NCGA), and National Biodiesel Board (NBB) and provides an analysis of a renewable fuels standard (RFS) of 6.6 billion gallons by 2011, continuing to 8.8 billion gallons by 2016. (Tuesday, December 11, 2001) Yahoo News.
Senator Clinton Calls For Tighter Security At Nuclear Power Plants Washington, DC - In the wake of the terrorist attacks, Senator Hillary Clinton (D-NY) is calling for tighter security at the nation's nuclear power plants. (Friday, November 30, 2001) iKnowRochester.com
RG&E's Ginna nuke plant beefs up security force -- Rochester Gas and Electric Corp. has hired additional security staff and purchased equipment since Sept. 11 to help protect its Ginna nuclear power plant, company officials said yesterday. (Thursday, November 29, 2001) DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE
PSC Approves Niagara Mohawk, National Grid Merger Albany, NY - State regulators have approved a $3 billion merger between Niagara Mohawk and National Grid USA. The state Public Service Commission today gave its stamp of approval to a deal that the utility companies say will save upstate New York consumers up to $1 billion on delivery charges over the next 10 years. (Wednesday, November 28, 2001)iKnowRochester.com
Energy Department Backs Wind Effort WASHINGTON, November 16, 2001 - The US Department of Energy's Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) is backing the largest wind project in the state of Oregon by agreeing to purchase the entire output of the initiative. The project, which is already under construction, will by the middle of next year see the installation of 83 wind turbines at a site near Condon, Oregon. --Yahoo Environment News
Company Searches For Natural Gas In Yates County Rochester, NY - In a community that is known for farming, a fuel company hopes to harvest more than just crops. (Thursday, November 8, 2001) iKnowRochester.com
Government to Roll Out New Technologies for Coal Fired Power Plants WASHINGTON, November 7, 2001 - In an effort to improve both the reliability and environmental performance of US coal-burning power plants, the US Department of Energy is providing $51 million in backing to new projects that are worth more than $110 million. (Thursday, November 8, 2001) Yahoo News
Gas prices fall Nov. 5 - Gas industry analysts say gas prices have fallen almost seven cents a gallon over the past two weeks. (Monday, November 5, 2001) WHEC
Gas sought under Middlesex A West Virgina-based company plans to drill more than 6,000 feet into the ground in search of natural gas. MIDDLESEX - Contractors have been drilling night and day for about two weeks on the Button farm on North Vine Valley Road. Their goal: A 6,500-foot deep shaft reaching into a geologic formation some 500 million years old. And if they're right, it'll be full of natural gas. (Sunday, November 4, 2001) Daily Messenger
Merger Possible Between RG&E and NYSEG Rochester, NY - We have already had a taste of cold weather and this is nothing compared to what we will feel in the next few months. (Tuesday, October 30, 2001) iKnowRochester.com
Heat on the Cheap Waste oil fuels furnace in Caledonia This weekend you probably had to give in and finally turn on the heater. But what if there was a cheaper way to stay warm this winter? (Monday, October 29, 2001) RNews
Fairport Electric encourages cooking with gas Increased demand is forcing up the public utility's price for electricity. About 50 Fairport Electric customers have signed up to receive natural gas from Rochester Gas & Electric Corp. in the past two years, and Fairport Electric couldn't be happier. (Tuesday, October 16, 2001) Perinton-Fairport Post
New York governor orders National Guard to nuclear power plants Oct. 14 - The other big safety concerns in New York State are the nuclear power plants. On Saturday, the governor ordered the National Guard to patrol all of them including the Ginna power plant. (Sunday, October 14, 2001) WHEC
Drilling for gas uncaps worries - With the war on terrorism reviving a push in Congress to increase domestic energy supplies in the name of national security, New York lawmakers are scurrying to protect the Finger Lakes National Forest from natural gas drilling. (Tuesday, October 9, 2001) - -DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE
S everal homes are going solar A Penfield home with low or no utility bills will welcome visitors. Despite addresses far from America's sunbelt, a few area homeowners are using the latest solar technology to shrink their utility bills, or avoid them altogether. On Oct. 13 homeowners from Monroe County to the Finger Lakes will open their state-of-the-art solar homes to the public, part of the 2001 National Tour of Solar Homes. (Friday, October 5, 2001) Penfield Post
Winter gas-heat bills to fall 19%, RG&E says -- A pleasant surprise awaits Rochester Gas and Electric Corp. customers: They can expect a 19 percent drop in winter heating costs. (Thursday, September 27, 2001) -DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE
STATEMENT BY ATTORNEY GENERAL SPITZER REGARDING THE SALE OF THE NINE MILE NUCLEAR POWER PLANTS I have filed comments prepared by my Telecommunications and Energy Bureau with the New York State Public Service Commission regarding settlement proposals offered by the Niagara Mohawk Power Corporation, Rochester Gas and Electric Corporation, and Central Hudson Power Company to sell their respective interests in the Nine Mile Point power plants. (Wednesday, September 26, 2001) NYS Attorney General.
Ginna reactor on highest security alert -- The Ginna nuclear power plant in western Wayne County, mindful of potential terrorist strikes, is at its highest level of security alert ever. Officials at Rochester Gas and Electric Corp., which owns and operates the plant, declined to discuss the extra security measures in detail, other than to say that all nonessential visitors have been barred. (Wednesday, September 19, 2001) -DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE
Professor advocates building a better light bulb - The days seem numbered for the light bulb you're using to read this story. Corporations and universities worldwide are racing to develop light-emitting diodes as a cheap, energy-efficient replacement for the incandescent and fluorescent bulbs that light most rooms now. (Tuesday, August 14, 2001) -DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE
Running AC Overnight Can Cut a Building's Electricity Bills WEST LAFAYETTE, IN, - Although on the surface it might seem counterintuitive that running a building's air conditioning overnight could cut the cooling costs, this is exactly what research engineers have found. In fact, the Purdue researchers have shown the cost savings can reach 40 percent. August 10, 2001 Yahoo Environment.
Beat The Heat; RG&E Asks Customers To Conserve Energy Rochester, NY - It's hot and humid, and there won't be any relief for a while. Several days of 90-degree weather can be dangerous, and it's forcing people to find new ways to stay cool. (Wednesday, August 8, 2001) iKnowRochester.com
City part of natural gas effort Sixteen natural gas fueling stations will go up in N.Y. Canandaigua is among several Department of Transpor-tation locations throughout the state that are now dispensing compressed natural gas as a fuel source for vehicles. Gov. George Pataki announced yesterday that 16 new high-volume compressed natural gas fueling stations will be developed across the state. (Wednesday, August 1, 2001) Daily Messenger
Save Energy, Save Laundry from Consumer Reports "Newer washers save in energy costs." Looking for ways to cut your energy bill? Consumer Reports says check your laundry room. On average 12% of a household's energy use goes to washing and drying clothes. (Thursday, July 26, 2001) RNews
RG&E Faces Decisions Over Ginna Power Plant Plentiful Power Keeps Rochester From Energy Emergencies For Now Rochester, NY - As the nation struggles with an energy policy, some tough decisions are on the horizon for Rochester, including the future of the Ginna Nuclear Power Plant. The operating license for Ginna expires in 2009, and at stake is half the electricity that powers Rochester. (Tuesday, July 10, 2001) iKnowRochester.com
Rush adopts lighting ordinance Businesses will have until January 2003 to make sure outside lighting is up to code. It's lights out for Rush merchants who use bright bulbs to light the areas outside their businesses. (Tuesday, July 3, 2001) Greece Post
Group: Speed power-plant approvals ALBANY-- While assuring the public that power shortages this summer are only a remote possibility, an official of a generators' group said yesterday the state must streamline its process of approving new plants to head off future shortages. (Tuesday, July 3, 2001) - DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE
Stronger Emissions Regulations Eyed In New York Albany, NY - The Pataki administration is reviewing new regulations that would require state power plants to cut emissions in half by 2008 to help reduce acid rain. (7/02/01) iKnowRochester.com
STATES SUE TO REVERSE BUSH POLICY ON APPLIANCE REGS Air Conditioner Efficiency Standard Called Key to Easing Energy Crisis New York Attorney General Eliot Spitzer, California Attorney General Bill Lockyer, Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal, the Natural Resources Defense Council and other national environmental and consumer groups today filed a lawsuit against the Bush Administration over its decision to significantly weaken and delay a high energy efficiency standard for large residential air conditioning systems. (Thursday, June 21, 2001) NYS Attorney General.
RGS And Energy East Merger Approved Rochester, NY - RGS and Energy East shareholders have approved a merger between the two energy providers. (6/15/01) iKnowRochester.com
Farmers Look At New Fuels Gasoline prices are on the rise. And it's a situation that has some people looking closer at fuel alternatives. (Wednesday, June 6, 2001) RNews
NYSEG, RG&E want rates frozen until 2008 The parent companies of both utilities have planned a merger.
The heads of two regional energy giants have asked the state for a rate freeze until 2008. (Tuesday, June 5, 2001) Daily Messenger
Energy tour is promoting efficiency Agency has $750 million fund for money-saving programs - Over the next five years, New York businesses, municipalities and households can tap an estimated $750 million fund dedicated to energy efficiency. (Tuesday, June 5, 2001) --DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE
Get A New Air Conditioner, Get $75 From The State Rochester, NY - If you're in the market to buy an air conditioner this summer, you should know about an energy plan that could save you money. (Monday, June 4, 2001) iKnowRochester.com
N.Y. urged to expand AC rebates -- To help deal with the energy crisis, the state should spend $19 million to give rebates to people who replace old air conditioners with more efficient new ones, U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer said yesterday. (May 30, 2001) -DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE
New York showcases clean-air electric vehicles This year's American Tour de Sol - an eight day road rally of green vehicles - gave the New York Power Authority an opportunity to highlight its progress in encouraging green transportation in the state. (May 30, 2001) Yahoo Environment News
F retting over fuel Many say they'll make changes at home and in their businesses if prices rise much higher.
All eyes are on the gas pumps from now through Memorial Day. If prices rise through the weekend - when AAA estimates 34.2 million people nationally will be on the road, they could be even higher by the Fourth of July, said Gary Tschaepe, spokesman at AAA's Rochester office. (Wednesday, May 23, 2001) Daily Messenger
Bush Energy Plan Warns Of Possible Blackouts In New York Washington, DC - President Bush's energy report warns of possible summertime blackouts in New York City. But Democratic lawmakers said today that it does nothing to help the city cope with the problem (Friday, May 18, 2001) iKnowRochester.com
The Search For Natural Gas In Steuben County Rochester, NY - President George Bush unveiled his highly anticipated energy proposal Thursday, calling for building more coal and nuclear power plants, and building more pipelines to help distribute natural gas. Some of those new pipelines may soon spring up right in our own backyard. (Friday, May 18, 2001) iKnowRochester.com
Zone pricing of gas called unfair - If lawmakers approve a bill sponsored by a Rochester state lawmaker, the government would either protect the gasoline consumer or limit motorists' choices at the pump -- depending on who is asked. (Friday, May 18, 2001) -DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE
STATEMENT BY ATTORNEY GENERAL ELIOT SPITZER REGARDING THE BUSH ADMINISTRATION’S ENERGY PLAN There is a critical need for our nation to develop an energy policy that is balanced and forward-looking, but the Bush Administration’s energy plan falls far short of this mark. The key problem with the plan is that it seems to conclude that because we have energy problems, we cannot continue to make progress in improving the environment. (Thursday, May 17, 2001) Office of NYS Attorney General Eliot Spitzer.
Niagara Mohawk wants ratepayers to help with nuclear plant sale - SYRACUSE, N.Y. (AP) - Consumers would pay $1.1 billion to cover the shortfall from the pending sale of Niagara Mohawk's two Lake Ontario nuclear plants under a plan proposed by the utility. (Wednesday, May 9, 2001) 10NBC/WHEC TV-10
Car pool service offered in Finger Lakes region Commuters looking for an alternative to high gas prices and parking fees are invited to check out the Ride Share Program. This service offers free ride-matching services and information on inexpensive environmentally friendly transportation options to commuters traveling in the Rochester-Genesee and Finger Lakes region, including Ontario, Seneca, Wayne and Yates counties. ( April 18, 2001) Finger Lakes Times
Niagara Mohawk says summer demand for power shouldn't be a problem - Niagara Mohawk says they can provide enough power this summer in upstate New York to prevent the kinds of rolling blackouts and skyrocketing electricity rates that have plagued California (March 29, 2001) WHEC
AG OFFERS BLUEPRINT FOR INCREASING ENERGY SUPPLY WHILE PROTECTING ENVIRONMENT Spitzer to Convene Business and Environmental Leaders to Solve New York’s Energy Problems Attorney General Eliot Spitzer today released a report designed to serve as a blueprint for teaming business and environmental interests to help solve the state’s energy problems. (March 20, 2001) Office of the NYS Attorney General
Schools spend less on natural gas by buying in bulk -- About this time each year, Bill Baker sits in front of several computers, his eyes darting about, trying to keep up with numbers flitting across the screens. (February 26, 2001) -DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE
GOVERNOR PATAKI'S ENERGY EFFICIENCY EFFORTS RECOGNIZED National Association of Government Communicators Award New York Energy Efforts Governor George E. Pataki announced today that his efforts to raise public awareness about the benefits of energy efficiency are being honored by the National Association of Government Communicators (NAGC) as part of their 2000 Blue Pencil/Gold Screen Awards competition. The 1st place Gold Screen Award is for a public service television spot featuring Governor Pataki promoting the benefits of Energy Star products. (February 14, 2001) Office of the Governor Press Releases -- Press Releases 2001
Senator Schumer pushing for low income heating relief. The high cost of natural gas this winter is still on the mind of New York lawmakers. (February 6, 2001) 10NBC/WHEC TV-10
Sludge turning into energy County will soon produce electricity from solid waste. -- The steel centrifuges thickening the sludge at the Frank E. VanLare Treatment Plant are a sign of a minor waste revolution under way in Monroe County. (February 5,2001) DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE
Firewood shortage The high cost of heating fuel has many people turning to wood stoves for heat this winter. RG&E says customers will pay about 300 dollars more for heat this winter. (January 23, 2001) WHEC
Deregulation: It isn't a copy of California's Officials outline how it works. California began deregulating its energy industry in 1996, and Californians are now suffering brown-outs and paying higher bills. Energy experts say that won't happen here. (January 9, 2001) Perinton-Fairport Post.
Shopping for power Energy deregulation has led to savings and opened opportunities for some to form utilities. (January 9, 2001) Perinton-Fairport Post.

2000

Emergency heat fund opens High energy costs mean Red Cross, RG&E effort starts early -- Hoping to ease the pain of higher natural gas bills for some people, Rochester Gas and Electric Corp. and the local Red Cross will open their heating fund to qualified applicants beginning Tuesday -- more than a month earlier than usual. (November 27, 2000) DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE
An environmentally friendly way of living Through the use of sun and wind, local families reduce their dependence on utility-generated power. With natural gas prices expected to cause customers' heating costs to rise by 20 percent this winter and oil prices escalating just as fast, apartment dwellers and homeowners may feel at a loss for alternatives. (October 14, 2000) Penfield Post
S olar homes open for tour A Middlesex man featured on the tour uses both solar and wind energy to power his home. (October 5, 2000) Canandaigua.com
Democrat & Chronicle: Ginna plant has 'unusual event' — Rochester Gas & Electric Corp. reported an “unusual event” this morning at its Robert E. Ginna Nuclear Power Station in Ontario, Wayne County. The 1:48 a.m. incident, reported to the federal Nuclear Regulatory Commission, did not affect or disrupt plant operations, company officials said. An electrical arc shorted out a compressor that supplies pressurized air. Reserve compressors automatically activated. (February 16, 2004) Democrat and Chronicle
Democrat & Chronicle: Ginna power station closer to new permit — ONTARIO — Rochester Gas and Electric Corp. has moved a step closer in its request to have the operating license for the Robert E. Ginna nuclear power station extended until 2029. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission approved the results of a license renewal inspection during a public meeting Wednesday night before a handful of area residents and utility officials at the Ontario Public Library. (October 23, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Up For Bid: One Nuclear Power Plant -- According to Thursday's Rochester Democrat and Chronicle, Rochester Gas & Electric has asked the New York State Public Service Commission for permission to sell the Ginna Nuclear Power Plant. (September 4, 2003) WOKR-TV 13 || ROCHESTER
Ginna the undead - The biggest energy issue to hit Rochester in years has made a small dent in the news lately. It all began in July 2002, when Rochester Gas and Electric (Energy East) filed a license-renewal application for the Ginna nuclear plant, located 20 miles east of Rochester. The federal Nuclear Regulatory Commission is now processing the application, which would allow Ginna to operate until September 2029. If RG&E is turned down --- quite unlikely, since the NRC has so far said yes to every similar application --- the plant would effectively go out of business in 2009. (August 13, 2003) City Newspaper
Democrat & Chronicle: Critics head to Ginna hearing Environmental safety is the key subject today in public meetings sponsored by the federal regulators who oversee nuclear power plants. The floor is open for comments on a proposal by Rochester Gas and Electric Corp. to renew its operating license for the Robert E. Ginna Nuclear Power Station in Ontario, Wayne County. (August 7, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Democrat & Chronicle: RG&E inspecting its sirens after false alarm Misfire of one alarm Monday spurs utility to check them all — Rochester Gas and Electric Corp. crews this week are inspecting each of the 96 warning sirens surrounding its Robert E. Ginna Nuclear Power Plant in Ontario, Wayne County, after one of the sirens malfunctioned and sounded Monday morning. (April 22, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Politicians Propose Allowing Nuclear Plant Guards To Carry Automatic Weapons NEW YORK (AP) - Two assemblymen from Westchester County have submitted a bill that would allow security guards at New York State's nuclear power plants to carry automatic weapons. "It's bizarre to realize that, although we get bland assurances of security, that these guys are not armed with the kind of weapons terrorists might have," Richard Brodsky, a Democrat of Elmsford, told The New York Times in Thursday editions. (March 21, 2003) WOKR-TV 13 || ROCHESTER
Democrat & Chronicle: People working near Ginna plant will receive iodide pills — Monroe County has launched a program to provide potassium iodide pills to employees of Webster businesses near the Robert E. Ginna nuclear power station. The pills could be taken in the event of a leak at the plant to block radioactive iodine poisoning. (March 20, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Democrat & Chronicle: Ginna runs drill to test emergency responses — The crisis quickly turned from bad to worse. Despite emergency repairs, highly radioactive steam had burst through broken valves at the Robert E. Ginna nuclear power plant in Wayne County and was rushing into the cold air outside. (March 5, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Democrat & Chronicle: How safe are nuclear power plants?— The threat of terrorism has heightened concerns about the safety and security of the nation’s nuclear power plants. Particular scrutiny has been given to the Indian Point plant in Westchester County. Unhappy with federal officials’ handling of concerns about the plant’s emergency plans, lawmakers in a hearing Tuesday said the Federal Emergency Management Agency must explain by March 27 how it would respond to a terrorist attack at the plant. (March 1, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Ginna's future under review Those who have lived in the shadow of the R.E. Ginna nuclear power plant for the past 33 years had the opportunity to voice their opinions about the facility's future last week. (November 26, 2002) Messenger Post Newspapers
Democrat & Chronicle: Forums to review Ginna — WEBSTER — Opponents of the Ginna nuclear power plant in Ontario, Wayne County, are planning to voice their displeasure with the facility Wednesday in Webster. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission will conduct two public hearings on environmental issues pertaining to the plant’s license renewal. The hearings will be held at 1:30 and 7:30 p.m. at the Webster Public Library, Webster Plaza, 980 Ridge Road. --(November 04, 02) Democrat and Chronicle
Democrat & Chronicle: Nuclear power station cited for a violation October 10, 2002) — The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has issued a notice of violation for Rochester Gas and Electric Corp.’s Robert E. Ginna nuclear power station in Ontario, Wayne County. The commission’s inspectors found problems with the plant’s siren feedback system during an inspection completed June 29. Democrat and Chronicle
Monroe County Strengthens Nuclear Safety Plan 9/3/02 The County of Monroe, in partnership with Wegmans Food Markets, will begin distributing Potassium Iodide (KI) to residents of Monroe County who live within the 10-mile Emergency Planning Zone (EPZ) of the Ginna nuclear power plant located just east of Monroe County in Wayne County. Distribution is set to begin today at four Wegmans stores closest to Ginna...(September 13, 2002) Monroe County Press Releases
Radiation-Protection Pills Distributed To Residents Around Ginna - As the first anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks nears, people who live in the vicinity of the Ginna nuclear power plant are being made aware of potential nuclear dangers.
Anyone who lives within 10 miles of Ginna--17,000 Wayne and Monroe County residents--will receive mail notifying them that potassium iodide pills are being set aside for them, for their protection in case there is a leak at the plant. (September 3, 2002) WOKR13.TV
Schools Stock Up On Radiation-Protection Pills Ontario Center, NY - Four local school districts located within a 10-mile radius of the Ginna nuclear power plant, received KI pills to protect students and staff from radiation should a leak occur at the plant.
The potassium iodide or KI pills protect the thyroid gland from radiation. (September 3, 2002) WOKR13.TV
District Considers Hydrogen Power - The East Rochester Central School District wants to save money on its utility bills. That's why it's considering installing a hydrogen fuel cell on campus. R News: As It Happens, Where It Happens
Democrat & Chronicle: Senate bill boosts fuel-cell production — WASHINGTON — The Senate on Tuesday approved a measure calling for the production of 100,000 hydrogen fuel-cell cars by 2010 and 2.5 million by 2020 and every year thereafter. The provision, co-sponsored by Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, D-N.Y., also requires the Department of Energy to develop a plan to achieve those goals. The Senate voted 67-32 to add the fuel-cell car proposal to the energy bill. A final vote on the bill, which differs from the House version, could occur next week. Then, the House and Senate will have to resolve their differences. (June 11, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Democrat & Chronicle: Geneva prof leading hydrogen project (April 14, 2003) — Gasoline may, within a few years, go the way of the eight-track tape player and the butter churn. Ford Motor Co., General Motors Corp. and Japanese automakers are spending fortunes developing cars that run on hydrogen-powered fuel cells and emit only water from their tailpipes. And in January, President Bush made similar technology a national priority, laying out plans for $1.2 billion in federal spending to develop commercially viable hydrogen-powered fuel cells. (April 14, 2003) —Democrat and Chronicle
Secretary Of Energy Visits Local GM Fuel-Cell Center Honeoye Falls, NY - Spencer Abraham, the US secretary of energy, visited GMs Fuel Cell Development Center in Honeoye Falls on Friday. Secretary Abraham predicted that hydrogen fuel cell cars, like the ones being developed at the center would be mass produced by the year 2020. (February 23, 2003) WOKR-TV 13 ROCHESTER || NEWS
Democrat & Chronicle: Fuel cell firms with NY ties get boost from Bush speech WASHINGTON — Two firms with New York links who are developing hydrogen fuel cells got a dramatic boost from President Bush’s call to spend $1.2 billion to help develop environmentally-friendly hydrogen-powered cars. (January 29, 2003) —Democrat and Chronicle
R.I.T. Developing New Fuel Cells (Rochester-AP) -- Tiny fuel cells now under development will one day power laptop computers, cell phones, and toys. That's according to a group of engineers at the Rochester Institute of Technology. Fuel cells have been generating electricity for NASA space missions since the mid-1960s. General Motors and other car makers hope to have fuel cell powered cars on the market by the end of the decade (December 12, 2002) WSTM.COM
Consumers looking to purchase hybrid cars in the near future may be able to save some money thanks to new legislation signed by Governor Pataki yesterday. The bill eliminates local and state sales tax from the price difference between a hybrid car and a similar all-gasoline powered car; also, hybrid car purchasers can receive a $2000 credit on their state tax returns. People purchasing hybrid cars since January 2000 are eligible for the tax breaks. (October 21, 2002) The Town Crier News -- http://www.thetowncrier.com
Democrat & Chronicle: Schumer again calls for tapping of oil reserve — Sen. Charles Schumer on Monday renewed calls for the Bush administration to consider using the federal government’s oil reserves to help Americans cope with the rising cost of gasoline and home heating oil. Rochester already has seen a 34 percent increase in gasoline prices and a 23 percent spike in home heating oil costs from last year, Schumer said. (January 28, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Cost of home heating to increase A huge increase in the price of heating oil, and large increases for gas and propane as well will hurt many families` finances this winter. (October 8, 2002) MSNBC Local News
WXXI: RG&E Wants To Hike Gas And Electric Rates (2002-09-30) Officials from Rochester Gas and Electric are warning of layoffs and financial difficulties for the utility unless the state Public Service Commission grants RG&E a rate increase. RG&E wants to increase their electric rates by 6-point-4 percent. And natural gas by 6-point-8 percent. However a PSC staff has recommended a price decrease for both gas and electric rates (October 1, 2002) Public NewsRoom
Democrat & Chronicle: Pataki to expand clean energy sources — ALBANY — New York will be a leader in promoting clean energy under a policy Gov. George Pataki announced in this week’s State of the State address, but customers might pay for it on their electricity bills. Pataki pledged that New York will increase the share of electricity coming from renewable sources such as wind or solar power from 17 percent to 25 percent over the next 10 years. Thirteen other states have similar goals, but New York’s is one of the most aggressive, the group Environmental Advocates said. (January 10, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Democrat & Chronicle: Grant to aid Rochester energy plan — Rochester will receive a $250,000 grant to help finance a $3.3 million energy-efficiency project with the New York Power Authority, Sen. James Alesi, R-Perinton, announced Tuesday. (November 27, 2002) Democrat and Chronicle
GOVERNOR SIGNS "GREEN CAR" TAX BREAK LEGISLATION Governor George E. Pataki today announced he has signed legislation that will give valuable tax incentives to the purchasers of environmentally friendly "hybrid" vehicles, which use a combination of gasoline and electric motors to increase gas mileage and cut fuel consumption. "Hybrid vehicles use emerging technology in a way that can benefit all New Yorkers by improving the quality of the air that we breathe," Governor Pataki said. "These tax incentives will help make these innovative, environment-friendly vehicles more affordable." The legislation will exempt $3,000 of the purchase price of certain qualifying hybrid vehicles from State and local sales tax, and is intended to cover so-called "incremental costs"- the difference between of the cost of a conventionally powered vehicle and a similar hybrid. (October 16, 2002) Office of the Governor Press Releases 2002
Waterloo school work expected to save energy WATERLOO - Renovations under way at Waterloo High School are expected to result in a more energy-efficient, safer building. (September 16, 2002) Finger Lakes Times
Democrat & Chronicle: Fuel options fire debate Enthusiasts weigh the alternatives to oil, but admit progress here is slow (September 13, 2002) Democrat and Chronicle
GOVERNOR: VULNERABLE CITIZENS TO GET HELP WITH ENERGY FUNDS Governor George E. Pataki today announced that New York State will be receiving $15.8 million in additional Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) funding to help low and fixed-income New Yorkers defray some of the energy costs associated with higher-than-average temperatures this summer. --Office of the Governor Press Releases 2002
Is Burning Waste A Renewable Energy? - Albany, NY (AP)09/08/03 -- New York State regulators are pondering an unusual question: Does your garbage qualify as renewable fuel? The question is relevant now that the state is crafting rules that will mandate a heavier reliance on cleaner, sustainable energy sources. WOKR-TV 13 || ROCHESTER
Driving the body electric As its manufacturer has observed, your eyes are on the Sparrow. Ours certainly were as one specimen negotiated downtown Rochester traffic recently. But this is no bird we're talking about. It's the Corbin "Sparrow," a fully enclosed and equipped one-seater electric vehicle on three wheels. Two Sparrows are known to inhabit our area; Irondequoit's Mitch VanDuyn owns one of them. The Xerox employee says he uses his Sparrow mostly to get back and forth to the office in Webster, a 13-mile trip one-way. (November 7, 2002) City Newspaper
Buffalo News - Odor eater On this farm, a new system clears the air, makes electricity (October 29, 2002) The Buffalo News
Schumer`s state air conditioning program getting results - Senator Charles Schumer says a program designed to save the state energy is working. The "Keep Cool" energy program provides $75 rebates to New Yorkers who turn in their old air conditioners and buy new energy-efficient models. (August 8, 2002) MSNBC Local New

Nuclear Power
- Democrat & Chronicle: Ginna plant has 'unusual event' — Rochester Gas & Electric Corp. reported an “unusual event” this morning at its Robert E. Ginna Nuclear Power Station in Ontario, Wayne County. The 1:48 a.m. incident, reported to the federal Nuclear Regulatory Commission, did not affect or disrupt plant operations, company officials said. An electrical arc shorted out a compressor that supplies pressurized air. Reserve compressors automatically activated. (February 16, 2004) Democrat and Chronicle
- Democrat & Chronicle: Ginna power station closer to new permit — ONTARIO — Rochester Gas and Electric Corp. has moved a step closer in its request to have the operating license for the Robert E. Ginna nuclear power station extended until 2029. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission approved the results of a license renewal inspection during a public meeting Wednesday night before a handful of area residents and utility officials at the Ontario Public Library. (October 23, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
- Up For Bid: One Nuclear Power Plant -- According to Thursday's Rochester Democrat and Chronicle, Rochester Gas & Electric has asked the New York State Public Service Commission for permission to sell the Ginna Nuclear Power Plant. (September 4, 2003) WOKR-TV 13 || ROCHESTER
- Ginna the undead - The biggest energy issue to hit Rochester in years has made a small dent in the news lately. It all began in July 2002, when Rochester Gas and Electric (Energy East) filed a license-renewal application for the Ginna nuclear plant, located 20 miles east of Rochester. The federal Nuclear Regulatory Commission is now processing the application, which would allow Ginna to operate until September 2029. If RG&E is turned down --- quite unlikely, since the NRC has so far said yes to every similar application --- the plant would effectively go out of business in 2009. (August 13, 2003) City Newspaper
- Democrat & Chronicle: Critics head to Ginna hearing Environmental safety is the key subject today in public meetings sponsored by the federal regulators who oversee nuclear power plants. The floor is open for comments on a proposal by Rochester Gas and Electric Corp. to renew its operating license for the Robert E. Ginna Nuclear Power Station in Ontario, Wayne County. (August 7, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
- Democrat & Chronicle: RG&E inspecting its sirens after false alarm Misfire of one alarm Monday spurs utility to check them all — Rochester Gas and Electric Corp. crews this week are inspecting each of the 96 warning sirens surrounding its Robert E. Ginna Nuclear Power Plant in Ontario, Wayne County, after one of the sirens malfunctioned and sounded Monday morning. (April 22, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
- Politicians Propose Allowing Nuclear Plant Guards To Carry Automatic Weapons NEW YORK (AP) - Two assemblymen from Westchester County have submitted a bill that would allow security guards at New York State's nuclear power plants to carry automatic weapons. "It's bizarre to realize that, although we get bland assurances of security, that these guys are not armed with the kind of weapons terrorists might have," Richard Brodsky, a Democrat of Elmsford, told The New York Times in Thursday editions. (March 21, 2003) WOKR-TV 13 || ROCHESTER
- Democrat & Chronicle: People working near Ginna plant will receive iodide pills — Monroe County has launched a program to provide potassium iodide pills to employees of Webster businesses near the Robert E. Ginna nuclear power station. The pills could be taken in the event of a leak at the plant to block radioactive iodine poisoning. (March 20, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
- Democrat & Chronicle: Ginna runs drill to test emergency responses — The crisis quickly turned from bad to worse. Despite emergency repairs, highly radioactive steam had burst through broken valves at the Robert E. Ginna nuclear power plant in Wayne County and was rushing into the cold air outside. (March 5, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
- Democrat & Chronicle: How safe are nuclear power plants?— The threat of terrorism has heightened concerns about the safety and security of the nation’s nuclear power plants. Particular scrutiny has been given to the Indian Point plant in Westchester County. Unhappy with federal officials’ handling of concerns about the plant’s emergency plans, lawmakers in a hearing Tuesday said the Federal Emergency Management Agency must explain by March 27 how it would respond to a terrorist attack at the plant. (March 1, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
- Ginna's future under review Those who have lived in the shadow of the R.E. Ginna nuclear power plant for the past 33 years had the opportunity to voice their opinions about the facility's future last week. (November 26, 2002) Messenger Post Newspapers
- Democrat & Chronicle: Forums to review Ginna — WEBSTER — Opponents of the Ginna nuclear power plant in Ontario, Wayne County, are planning to voice their displeasure with the facility Wednesday in Webster. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission will conduct two public hearings on environmental issues pertaining to the plant’s license renewal. The hearings will be held at 1:30 and 7:30 p.m. at the Webster Public Library, Webster Plaza, 980 Ridge Road. --(November 04, 02) Democrat and Chronicle
- Democrat & Chronicle: Nuclear power station cited for a violation October 10, 2002) — The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has issued a notice of violation for Rochester Gas and Electric Corp.’s Robert E. Ginna nuclear power station in Ontario, Wayne County. The commission’s inspectors found problems with the plant’s siren feedback system during an inspection completed June 29. Democrat and Chronicle
- Monroe County Strengthens Nuclear Safety Plan 9/3/02 The County of Monroe, in partnership with Wegmans Food Markets, will begin distributing Potassium Iodide (KI) to residents of Monroe County who live within the 10-mile Emergency Planning Zone (EPZ) of the Ginna nuclear power plant located just east of Monroe County in Wayne County. Distribution is set to begin today at four Wegmans stores closest to Ginna...(September 13, 2002) Monroe County Press Releases
- Radiation-Protection Pills Distributed To Residents Around Ginna - As the first anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks nears, people who live in the vicinity of the Ginna nuclear power plant are being made aware of potential nuclear dangers.
  Anyone who lives within 10 miles of Ginna--17,000 Wayne and Monroe County residents--will receive mail notifying them that potassium iodide pills are being set aside for them, for their protection in case there is a leak at the plant. (September 3, 2002) WOKR13.TV
- Schools Stock Up On Radiation-Protection Pills Ontario Center, NY - Four local school districts located within a 10-mile radius of the Ginna nuclear power plant, received KI pills to protect students and staff from radiation should a leak occur at the plant.
  The potassium iodide or KI pills protect the thyroid gland from radiation. (September 3, 2002) WOKR13.TV
Hydrogen Fuel Cells
- District Considers Hydrogen Power - The East Rochester Central School District wants to save money on its utility bills. That's why it's considering installing a hydrogen fuel cell on campus. R News: As It Happens, Where It Happens
- Democrat & Chronicle: Senate bill boosts fuel-cell production — WASHINGTON — The Senate on Tuesday approved a measure calling for the production of 100,000 hydrogen fuel-cell cars by 2010 and 2.5 million by 2020 and every year thereafter. The provision, co-sponsored by Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, D-N.Y., also requires the Department of Energy to develop a plan to achieve those goals. The Senate voted 67-32 to add the fuel-cell car proposal to the energy bill. A final vote on the bill, which differs from the House version, could occur next week. Then, the House and Senate will have to resolve their differences. (June 11, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
- Democrat & Chronicle: Geneva prof leading hydrogen project (April 14, 2003) — Gasoline may, within a few years, go the way of the eight-track tape player and the butter churn. Ford Motor Co., General Motors Corp. and Japanese automakers are spending fortunes developing cars that run on hydrogen-powered fuel cells and emit only water from their tailpipes. And in January, President Bush made similar technology a national priority, laying out plans for $1.2 billion in federal spending to develop commercially viable hydrogen-powered fuel cells. (April 14, 2003) —Democrat and Chronicle
- Secretary Of Energy Visits Local GM Fuel-Cell Center Honeoye Falls, NY - Spencer Abraham, the US secretary of energy, visited GMs Fuel Cell Development Center in Honeoye Falls on Friday. Secretary Abraham predicted that hydrogen fuel cell cars, like the ones being developed at the center would be mass produced by the year 2020. (February 23, 2003) WOKR-TV 13 ROCHESTER || NEWS
- Democrat & Chronicle: Fuel cell firms with NY ties get boost from Bush speech WASHINGTON — Two firms with New York links who are developing hydrogen fuel cells got a dramatic boost from President Bush’s call to spend $1.2 billion to help develop environmentally-friendly hydrogen-powered cars. (January 29, 2003) —Democrat and Chronicle
- R.I.T. Developing New Fuel Cells (Rochester-AP) -- Tiny fuel cells now under development will one day power laptop computers, cell phones, and toys. That's according to a group of engineers at the Rochester Institute of Technology. Fuel cells have been generating electricity for NASA space missions since the mid-1960s. General Motors and other car makers hope to have fuel cell powered cars on the market by the end of the decade (December 12, 2002) WSTM.COM
- Consumers looking to purchase hybrid cars in the near future may be able to save some money thanks to new legislation signed by Governor Pataki yesterday. The bill eliminates local and state sales tax from the price difference between a hybrid car and a similar all-gasoline powered car; also, hybrid car purchasers can receive a $2000 credit on their state tax returns. People purchasing hybrid cars since January 2000 are eligible for the tax breaks. (October 21, 2002) The Town Crier News -- http://www.thetowncrier.com
Carbon-based Fuels
- Democrat & Chronicle: Schumer again calls for tapping of oil reserve — Sen. Charles Schumer on Monday renewed calls for the Bush administration to consider using the federal government’s oil reserves to help Americans cope with the rising cost of gasoline and home heating oil. Rochester already has seen a 34 percent increase in gasoline prices and a 23 percent spike in home heating oil costs from last year, Schumer said. (January 28, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
- Cost of home heating to increase A huge increase in the price of heating oil, and large increases for gas and propane as well will hurt many families` finances this winter. (October 8, 2002) MSNBC Local News
- WXXI: RG&E Wants To Hike Gas And Electric Rates (2002-09-30) Officials from Rochester Gas and Electric are warning of layoffs and financial difficulties for the utility unless the state Public Service Commission grants RG&E a rate increase. RG&E wants to increase their electric rates by 6-point-4 percent. And natural gas by 6-point-8 percent. However a PSC staff has recommended a price decrease for both gas and electric rates (October 1, 2002) Public NewsRoom
Energy Policies
- Democrat & Chronicle: Pataki to expand clean energy sources — ALBANY — New York will be a leader in promoting clean energy under a policy Gov. George Pataki announced in this week’s State of the State address, but customers might pay for it on their electricity bills. Pataki pledged that New York will increase the share of electricity coming from renewable sources such as wind or solar power from 17 percent to 25 percent over the next 10 years. Thirteen other states have similar goals, but New York’s is one of the most aggressive, the group Environmental Advocates said. (January 10, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
- Democrat & Chronicle: Grant to aid Rochester energy plan — Rochester will receive a $250,000 grant to help finance a $3.3 million energy-efficiency project with the New York Power Authority, Sen. James Alesi, R-Perinton, announced Tuesday. (November 27, 2002) Democrat and Chronicle
- GOVERNOR SIGNS "GREEN CAR" TAX BREAK LEGISLATION Governor George E. Pataki today announced he has signed legislation that will give valuable tax incentives to the purchasers of environmentally friendly "hybrid" vehicles, which use a combination of gasoline and electric motors to increase gas mileage and cut fuel consumption. "Hybrid vehicles use emerging technology in a way that can benefit all New Yorkers by improving the quality of the air that we breathe," Governor Pataki said. "These tax incentives will help make these innovative, environment-friendly vehicles more affordable." The legislation will exempt $3,000 of the purchase price of certain qualifying hybrid vehicles from State and local sales tax, and is intended to cover so-called "incremental costs"- the difference between of the cost of a conventionally powered vehicle and a similar hybrid. (October 16, 2002) Office of the Governor Press Releases 2002
- Waterloo school work expected to save energy WATERLOO - Renovations under way at Waterloo High School are expected to result in a more energy-efficient, safer building. (September 16, 2002) Finger Lakes Times
- Democrat & Chronicle: Fuel options fire debate Enthusiasts weigh the alternatives to oil, but admit progress here is slow (September 13, 2002) Democrat and Chronicle
- GOVERNOR: VULNERABLE CITIZENS TO GET HELP WITH ENERGY FUNDS Governor George E. Pataki today announced that New York State will be receiving $15.8 million in additional Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) funding to help low and fixed-income New Yorkers defray some of the energy costs associated with higher-than-average temperatures this summer. --Office of the Governor Press Releases 2002
New Energy Ideas:
- Is Burning Waste A Renewable Energy? - Albany, NY (AP)09/08/03 -- New York State regulators are pondering an unusual question: Does your garbage qualify as renewable fuel? The question is relevant now that the state is crafting rules that will mandate a heavier reliance on cleaner, sustainable energy sources. WOKR-TV 13 || ROCHESTER
- Driving the body electric As its manufacturer has observed, your eyes are on the Sparrow. Ours certainly were as one specimen negotiated downtown Rochester traffic recently. But this is no bird we're talking about. It's the Corbin "Sparrow," a fully enclosed and equipped one-seater electric vehicle on three wheels. Two Sparrows are known to inhabit our area; Irondequoit's Mitch VanDuyn owns one of them. The Xerox employee says he uses his Sparrow mostly to get back and forth to the office in Webster, a 13-mile trip one-way. (November 7, 2002) City Newspaper
- Buffalo News - Odor eater On this farm, a new system clears the air, makes electricity (October 29, 2002) The Buffalo News
- Schumer`s state air conditioning program getting results - Senator Charles Schumer says a program designed to save the state energy is working. The "Keep Cool" energy program provides $75 rebates to New Yorkers who turn in their old air conditioners and buy new energy-efficient models. (August 8, 2002) MSNBC Local New

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