Energy and Clean Tech Connections (August 2010)
8/18/2010
In the August edition of Energy and Clean Tech Connections, we’ve gathered recent information from a wide variety of sources in an effort to keep you abreast of what’s new in the world of clean energy. We draw your attention to the latest industry developments, news from local governments to Capitol Hill, grant opportunities, and upcoming events.
This month, the Energy & Clean Technology Practice Group would like to congratulate ML Strategies clients Ameresco, Inc. and The Babcock & Wilcox Company. Last month, Ameresco completed their initial public offering, raising $87 million which will help the company pay down debt and provide additional working capital for future expansion. On August 6th, the U.S. Department of Energy awarded $1 billion to FutureGen, a clean coal program in which Babcock & Wilcox is a key partner. The grant will help the partnership create the world’s first commercial-scale clean coal power plant.
A new report from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) examined the growth and efficacy of feed-in-tariffs (FITs) and how these policies can be used to spur growth in the US renewable energy sector. Over 70 countries, states, and provinces worldwide currently use FITs, and the NREL claims they have been responsible for 75% of all solar PV and 45% of all wind development worldwide.
In Capitol Hill news, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid was unable to garner enough support to pass his oil spill and energy use legislation before the August recess. Various Congressional offices, renewable energy industry groups, and environmental organizations are pushing for the inclusion and expansion of items in the bill upon return from the recess. Senator John Kerry introduced his Clean Energy Technology Leadership Act of 2010, which aims at providing tax incentives for clean energy, manufacturing, renewable energy and conservation businesses.
We hope that you enjoy this month’s edition of the newsletter. For the most up-to-date information on federal legislation and programs, please click here to find the most recent ML Strategies Weekly Energy and Environment Update.
