/PRNewswire/ -- With gasoline and diesel pump prices in Georgia hovering in the $4.00 range, Atlanta Gas Light (AGL) today (May 12) filed a plan with the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) to build a network of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) fueling stations over the next five years in the metropolitan Atlanta region and along major transportation corridors in the state. The plan also includes low-cost equipment leasing options for home fueling stations. CNG retail prices are over a third less than that of petroleum - $2.19 per gallon of gas equivalent – as currently posted at Georgia retailers.
"Demand for CNG is growing in the United States, and Atlanta Gas Light is committed to attracting interest in this important new investment opportunity to Georgia," said Ian Skelton, director of Atlanta Gas Light's natural gas vehicle program. "Natural gas is abundant and clean, and the U.S. is estimated to have a one hundred year supply that is readily deliverable to Georgia. Fleet owners and vehicle manufacturers are beginning to recognize the significant price advantage CNG holds over petroleum at the pump and, as a result, demand for CNG should increase. Making CNG stations more prevalent and accessible makes sense for Georgia, for businesses and for consumers."
Under the plan to be considered by the PSC later this summer, AGL proposes to invest nearly $12 million dollars to stimulate private investment in the construction of approximately 10 to 15 fueling stations, depending on the size of the station and the level of private investment. The stations would be owned and operated by private retailers who must invest approximately 50 percent of the cost of the CNG station. Retailers would purchase natural gas from certificated marketers and resell it as CNG to the public. The initial station locations will be largely determined based on proximity to commercial fleet customers who contract for service.
The capital used to seed the market would be expended from the Universal Service Fund, which is funded from rates paid by industrial customers and proceeds shared by energy asset management firms. AGL annually requests funds from the USF for line extensions to serve new customers and new regions of the state. The recessed economy has stalled line extensions that normally would come with growth, leaving a temporary surplus in the fund that can be used to foster CNG growth.
Atlanta Gas Light will not sell CNG to the public nor participate in the commercial operation of the stations as part of this program. AGL will own and maintain the CNG equipment connected to its traditional natural gas distribution system, enabling USF dollars to be used to construct the CNG facilities. Atlanta Gas Light will collect transportation delivery charges and actual costs associated with operations and maintenance from retailers. Revenue collected from a separate equipment utilization fee will be placed in a reserve account to fund a portion of the cost of leasing home refueling stations, erecting additional CNG facilities, and making repairs and replacing the CNG equipment.
In order to qualify for funding, applicants must demonstrate financial resources sufficient to secure the real estate for the station, develop the site consistent with local zoning, fund at least 50 percent of the total CNG station costs, and produce contracts with fleet or end use customers that utilize no less than 15,000 gas equivalent gallons per year for five years. The 50 percent match requirement is reduced to 20 percent after the first year if there are sufficient funds remaining.
The plan is the product of months of market studies and public hearings followed by legislative action. After filing a conceptual plan last September at the urging of PSC Commissioner Doug Everett, two public hearings were held in November 2010 and January 2011 to refine the plan. In March, the Georgia General Assembly gave express authorization for USF funds to be utilized for natural gas fueling infrastructure for motor vehicles.
Construction and maintenance of CNG facilities is not new to Atlanta Gas Light. The company installed its first CNG pumps at a public station in downtown Atlanta in the early 1990's. In 1996, AGL began its service to MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) when the transportation agency converted its bus fleet to CNG in advance of Atlanta hosting the Summer Olympics. Currently, the company owns equipment located at 10 CNG stations operated by private fleets and located on customer-owned premises, including municipal transit agencies, and has installed numerous others. The company also provides maintenance services to about 40 additional fleet customers who own their own CNG stations.
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Showing posts with label atlanta. Show all posts
Showing posts with label atlanta. Show all posts
Monday, May 16, 2011
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Atlanta Gas Light's Residential Rates to Increase 90 Cents per Month
/PRNewswire/-- Following a 4-1 vote October 27 by the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC), residential customers of Atlanta Gas Light will receive a 90-cent monthly net increase in service rates effective November 1. The adjustment, the first base rate increase for the company since 1993, equates to an overall increase of one percent for the typical residential customer's annual natural gas bill. The adjustment will be reflected in the monthly Atlanta Gas Light charges as billed by certificated gas marketers to customers.
After weighing evidence and hearing testimony during the last six months, the PSC concluded that a $26.7 million increase in the company's revenue requirement was warranted to provide the company with sufficient revenue to meet reasonable expenses, pay interest on debt, continue to attract capital at favorable rates and provide a reasonable return to shareholders in order to continue to attract investment. The company originally sought $54.2 million in additional revenues in its case filed May 3, 2010, before adjusting the amount in October to $48.2 million to reflect more current economic conditions.
The company expects a final written order to be issued within the next 30 days, at which time parties to the case have 10 days to file for reconsideration of the decision with the PSC.
"Although we made a strong case for a larger revenue requirement to fund our service obligations, we recognize the economic climate weighed heavily on the commission as it worked to find the right balance for the company, our customers and shareholders," said Suzanne Sitherwood, president, Atlanta Gas Light.
"It is never an easy decision to increase rates, particularly in a difficult economy," Sitherwood said. "However, the action by the PSC provides necessary revenues to sustain our operations and meet the growing demands for compliance and safety work, while improving our customer service levels."
The PSC also approved a rate-design change that closes the cost-of-service gap between residential and commercial customers. Small commercial customers with a Designated Design Day Capacity (DDDC) factor of less than 7.0, which includes approximately 82% of all commercial customers, will see no rate increase or a small decrease. Large commercial customers will receive a monthly increase in their total bill similar in percentage to that of residential customers. In addition, monthly rates charged to agricultural customers will be reduced by $73 on average, particularly to bring poultry growers' rates more in line with general commercial accounts and help them better manage peak costs during winter.
The company also was ordered to investigate whether additional senior citizens might be eligible to participate in Atlanta Gas Light's senior discount program. Individuals age 65 or older with annual income of $14,355 or less are eligible to receive a monthly discount of up to $14.00.
Other details and provisions of the decision include:
* Acceptance of a revenue requirement of approximately $450 million, which equates to an unadjusted increase of approximately $1.46 per residential customer.
* Two changes in the company's surcharges totaling approximately $12.1 million annually, which will offset the impact of the rate increase by approximately 56 cents per month on the customer's monthly bill. This includes a temporary shift of $6.5 million from the Universal Service Fund to fund the Senior Citizen Discount Program, and acceptance of an October filing by Atlanta Gas Light to reduce the environmental cost recovery surcharge rate for an annual reduction of $5.6 million.
* Established an authorized return on equity of 10.75 percent, which is within the estimated range of 10.5 percent to 11.25 percent recommended by the company.
* Approval of a capital structure for the company of 51 percent common equity, 44.63 percent long-term debt and 4.37 percent short-term debt.
* A return to a traditional method of calculating depreciation expense using net value methodology with a salvage rate of negative 30 percent.
* Approval of an in-home appliance repair program that permits Atlanta Gas Light service technicians to perform minor repairs of low cost and short duration when responding to the home for other purposes, while providing referrals to Natural Gas Advantage Dealer companies for more substantial repairs or appliance replacements.
* Funding of the new Customer Care Center in Riverdale, Georgia, to better handle customer issues and support 74 new jobs in Georgia.
* Increase the number of service technicians on staff to make them available to reduce the average time to establish service and fulfill other customer orders from five business days to three.
* Adoption of a new acquisition synergy sharing policy that is expected to hold down future operating expenses by incentivizing the company to make prudent utility acquisitions that capture savings for customers while insulating them from risk of increased costs from such transactions. Customers will share equally in any savings from future transactions after the company demonstrates savings through a future proceeding.
* Allocation of $4.4 million in annual revenue to the company to recognize equitable treatment of current and ongoing savings produced from the acquisition by AGL Resources of NUI Corporation. Evidence in the case demonstrated that since 2005 approximately $150 million in savings were generated from previous acquisitions which were applied to reduce Atlanta Gas Light's operating expenses.
* Improvements to technology systems intended to provide quicker response times and greater capacity to perform additional marketer and customer services.
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After weighing evidence and hearing testimony during the last six months, the PSC concluded that a $26.7 million increase in the company's revenue requirement was warranted to provide the company with sufficient revenue to meet reasonable expenses, pay interest on debt, continue to attract capital at favorable rates and provide a reasonable return to shareholders in order to continue to attract investment. The company originally sought $54.2 million in additional revenues in its case filed May 3, 2010, before adjusting the amount in October to $48.2 million to reflect more current economic conditions.
The company expects a final written order to be issued within the next 30 days, at which time parties to the case have 10 days to file for reconsideration of the decision with the PSC.
"Although we made a strong case for a larger revenue requirement to fund our service obligations, we recognize the economic climate weighed heavily on the commission as it worked to find the right balance for the company, our customers and shareholders," said Suzanne Sitherwood, president, Atlanta Gas Light.
"It is never an easy decision to increase rates, particularly in a difficult economy," Sitherwood said. "However, the action by the PSC provides necessary revenues to sustain our operations and meet the growing demands for compliance and safety work, while improving our customer service levels."
The PSC also approved a rate-design change that closes the cost-of-service gap between residential and commercial customers. Small commercial customers with a Designated Design Day Capacity (DDDC) factor of less than 7.0, which includes approximately 82% of all commercial customers, will see no rate increase or a small decrease. Large commercial customers will receive a monthly increase in their total bill similar in percentage to that of residential customers. In addition, monthly rates charged to agricultural customers will be reduced by $73 on average, particularly to bring poultry growers' rates more in line with general commercial accounts and help them better manage peak costs during winter.
The company also was ordered to investigate whether additional senior citizens might be eligible to participate in Atlanta Gas Light's senior discount program. Individuals age 65 or older with annual income of $14,355 or less are eligible to receive a monthly discount of up to $14.00.
Other details and provisions of the decision include:
* Acceptance of a revenue requirement of approximately $450 million, which equates to an unadjusted increase of approximately $1.46 per residential customer.
* Two changes in the company's surcharges totaling approximately $12.1 million annually, which will offset the impact of the rate increase by approximately 56 cents per month on the customer's monthly bill. This includes a temporary shift of $6.5 million from the Universal Service Fund to fund the Senior Citizen Discount Program, and acceptance of an October filing by Atlanta Gas Light to reduce the environmental cost recovery surcharge rate for an annual reduction of $5.6 million.
* Established an authorized return on equity of 10.75 percent, which is within the estimated range of 10.5 percent to 11.25 percent recommended by the company.
* Approval of a capital structure for the company of 51 percent common equity, 44.63 percent long-term debt and 4.37 percent short-term debt.
* A return to a traditional method of calculating depreciation expense using net value methodology with a salvage rate of negative 30 percent.
* Approval of an in-home appliance repair program that permits Atlanta Gas Light service technicians to perform minor repairs of low cost and short duration when responding to the home for other purposes, while providing referrals to Natural Gas Advantage Dealer companies for more substantial repairs or appliance replacements.
* Funding of the new Customer Care Center in Riverdale, Georgia, to better handle customer issues and support 74 new jobs in Georgia.
* Increase the number of service technicians on staff to make them available to reduce the average time to establish service and fulfill other customer orders from five business days to three.
* Adoption of a new acquisition synergy sharing policy that is expected to hold down future operating expenses by incentivizing the company to make prudent utility acquisitions that capture savings for customers while insulating them from risk of increased costs from such transactions. Customers will share equally in any savings from future transactions after the company demonstrates savings through a future proceeding.
* Allocation of $4.4 million in annual revenue to the company to recognize equitable treatment of current and ongoing savings produced from the acquisition by AGL Resources of NUI Corporation. Evidence in the case demonstrated that since 2005 approximately $150 million in savings were generated from previous acquisitions which were applied to reduce Atlanta Gas Light's operating expenses.
* Improvements to technology systems intended to provide quicker response times and greater capacity to perform additional marketer and customer services.
-----
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Thursday, October 21, 2010
Kroger and Shell Team Up in the Greater Metro Atlanta and Northern Georgia Area to Help Customers Save at the Pump
/PRNewswire/ -- The Kroger Co., the nation's largest traditional supermarket retailer, is excited to team up with Shell, the number 1 selling gasoline brand in the U.S., to give metro Atlanta and Northern Georgia area customers the chance to earn fuel savings at the pump. The exclusive alliance provides Kroger shoppers the opportunity to save on fuels by using their Kroger Plus Card.
Beginning October 25, every time Kroger customers in the area make a purchase with their Kroger Plus Card, they not only save money on their grocery bill but also earn Fuel Points that can be used at the pump. Kroger customers have the opportunity to redeem 100 points per visit to save 10 cents per gallon instantly at Kroger Fuel Centers and now at participating Shell stations. This offer is valid up to 35 gallons of fuel per purchase.
"Adding value and savings is an important part of Kroger's commitment to providing our customers the best possible shopping experience," said Glynn Jenkins, director of communications and public relations for Kroger's Atlanta Division. "In today's economic times, it's more important than ever for companies like Kroger and Shell to join forces to offer our customers optimum savings and rewards."
"We are excited to be teaming up with Kroger to help fill customers' gas tanks for less," said Dan Little, North America fuels marketing manager for Shell Oil Products U.S. "With Kroger stores throughout the metro Atlanta area and Northern Georgia, and conveniently located participating Shell stations nearby, it's never been easier for customers to save on high-quality Shell Nitrogen Enriched Gasolines."
Customers earn one Fuel Point for every dollar spent on most items when they use their Kroger Plus Card during shopping trips at participating Kroger stores. To help shoppers build up their savings quickly, additional Fuel Points can be earned by purchasing prescriptions or gift cards at Kroger. Customers earn 50 Fuel Points for each filled eligible prescription and two Fuel Points for every dollar spent on third-party gift cards from Kroger's in-store Gift Card Malls. Shoppers can visit any Kroger store for more details. Fuel Points will be automatically added to Kroger Plus Card accounts and will be reflected on customers' grocery receipt after every purchase. Customers also have the option of looking online on their "My Kroger" page at www.kroger.com to check how many Fuel Points they have earned. Fuel Points must be used during the month they are earned or by the end of the following calendar month.
Customers may redeem their Fuel Points at Kroger Fuel Centers or participating Shell stations by using their Kroger Plus Card at the pump, manually entering their card number or entering their alternate ID, which will initiate the fuel savings. Customers with questions about the fuels rewards program can call Kroger Customer Service at 1-800-576-4377, or they can contact Shell Customer Service at 1-888-GO-SHELL for assistance identifying participating Shell locations.
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Beginning October 25, every time Kroger customers in the area make a purchase with their Kroger Plus Card, they not only save money on their grocery bill but also earn Fuel Points that can be used at the pump. Kroger customers have the opportunity to redeem 100 points per visit to save 10 cents per gallon instantly at Kroger Fuel Centers and now at participating Shell stations. This offer is valid up to 35 gallons of fuel per purchase.
"Adding value and savings is an important part of Kroger's commitment to providing our customers the best possible shopping experience," said Glynn Jenkins, director of communications and public relations for Kroger's Atlanta Division. "In today's economic times, it's more important than ever for companies like Kroger and Shell to join forces to offer our customers optimum savings and rewards."
"We are excited to be teaming up with Kroger to help fill customers' gas tanks for less," said Dan Little, North America fuels marketing manager for Shell Oil Products U.S. "With Kroger stores throughout the metro Atlanta area and Northern Georgia, and conveniently located participating Shell stations nearby, it's never been easier for customers to save on high-quality Shell Nitrogen Enriched Gasolines."
Customers earn one Fuel Point for every dollar spent on most items when they use their Kroger Plus Card during shopping trips at participating Kroger stores. To help shoppers build up their savings quickly, additional Fuel Points can be earned by purchasing prescriptions or gift cards at Kroger. Customers earn 50 Fuel Points for each filled eligible prescription and two Fuel Points for every dollar spent on third-party gift cards from Kroger's in-store Gift Card Malls. Shoppers can visit any Kroger store for more details. Fuel Points will be automatically added to Kroger Plus Card accounts and will be reflected on customers' grocery receipt after every purchase. Customers also have the option of looking online on their "My Kroger" page at www.kroger.com to check how many Fuel Points they have earned. Fuel Points must be used during the month they are earned or by the end of the following calendar month.
Customers may redeem their Fuel Points at Kroger Fuel Centers or participating Shell stations by using their Kroger Plus Card at the pump, manually entering their card number or entering their alternate ID, which will initiate the fuel savings. Customers with questions about the fuels rewards program can call Kroger Customer Service at 1-800-576-4377, or they can contact Shell Customer Service at 1-888-GO-SHELL for assistance identifying participating Shell locations.
-----
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Wednesday, April 7, 2010
UPS Deploys 200 Hybrid Electric Vehicles
(BUSINESS WIRE)--UPS (NYSE:UPS) today announced its fleet of alternative-fuel vehicles had expanded with the deployment of 200 next-generation hybrid electric delivery trucks in eight U.S. cities.
“We’re proud of this large HEV deployment to major cities in the United States”
The 200 new hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) join roughly 20,000 low-emission and alternative-fuel vehicles already in use and have been deployed in Austin, Houston, Philadelphia, Chicago, Washington, D.C., Long Island, Minneapolis and Louisville. Before this latest deployment, UPS was operating 50 hybrid electrics in Atlanta, Dallas, Houston and Phoenix.
“We’re proud of this large HEV deployment to major cities in the United States,” said Bob Stoffel, UPS senior vice president of supply chain, strategy, engineering and sustainability. “This technology, where properly used, can yield a 35 percent fuel savings, the equivalent of 100 conventional UPS delivery vehicles.”
The 200 new HEV delivery trucks are expected to reduce fuel consumption by roughly 176,000 gallons over the course of a year compared to an equivalent number of traditional diesel trucks. The hybrids also should reduce by 1,786 metric tons the amount of CO2 gases released annually into the atmosphere.
The new hybrid power system utilizes a conventional diesel engine combined with a battery pack, saving fuel and reducing pollution-causing emissions. The small diesel is used to recharge the battery pack and to add power when necessary.
The HEVs also use regenerative braking. The energy generated from applying the brakes is captured and returned to the battery as electricity. The combination of clean diesel power and electric power, supplemented by regenerative braking, allows dramatic improvements in fuel savings and emissions reductions.
The HEV fleet features two different size vehicles from Workhorse Custom Chassis and Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation and a hybrid power system from Eaton Corporation. The external truck bodies are identical to UPS’s other signature brown trucks, although they feature additional labeling identifying them as hybrid electrics. The trucks use lithium ion batteries, which offer a faster re-charging capability and last longer than previous generation HEV batteries. Additionally, these vehicles are much quieter than conventional UPS trucks and feature keyless entry.
The UPS alternative fuel fleet is a diverse one with multiple technologies, including compressed natural gas, liquefied natural gas, propane, electricity and hydraulic hybrid technology. Since 2000, the alternative fuel fleet has traveled more than 165 million miles.
UPS was the first package delivery company to introduce a hybrid electric vehicle into daily operation with a research program in early 1998. In 2001, the company deployed the industry's first hybrid electric delivery truck into regular service in Huntsville, Ala., where the truck worked a 31-mile route with about 160 pickups and deliveries each day. UPS then introduced its second generation HEV in Kalamazoo, Mich., in 2004, while at the same time testing its first hydrogen fuel cell delivery truck in regular service.
While continuing to develop its alternative fuel fleet – UPS has invested more than $15 million in the effort – the company also has purchased and is operating more than 20,000 low emission conventional vehicles. These vehicles have regular gas- and diesel-powered engines but employ the very latest technology and manufacturing techniques to reduce emissions as much as possible.
“The wide variety of technologies in our green fleet is indicative of UPS’s ‘rolling laboratory’ philosophy to energy efficiency and reduced fuel consumption,” Stoffel said. “Our goal is to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, but there is no silver bullet technology to achieve this. This dependence will rely on a multi-modal approach.”
UPS (NYSE:UPS) pursues a wide range of socially responsible and sustainable business practices designed to reduce its impact on the environment and improve communities around the world. UPS operates one of the largest fleets of alternative fuel vehicles in its industry with more than 2,000 vehicles and continues to invest in alternative fuel technologies and operational efficiencies to reduce its carbon footprint. UPS is included in the Dow Jones and FTSE4Good Sustainability Indexes, which evaluate corporations based on economic, environmental and social criteria. Learn more about UPS’s responsible business practices at www.ups.com/responsibility.
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“We’re proud of this large HEV deployment to major cities in the United States”
The 200 new hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) join roughly 20,000 low-emission and alternative-fuel vehicles already in use and have been deployed in Austin, Houston, Philadelphia, Chicago, Washington, D.C., Long Island, Minneapolis and Louisville. Before this latest deployment, UPS was operating 50 hybrid electrics in Atlanta, Dallas, Houston and Phoenix.
“We’re proud of this large HEV deployment to major cities in the United States,” said Bob Stoffel, UPS senior vice president of supply chain, strategy, engineering and sustainability. “This technology, where properly used, can yield a 35 percent fuel savings, the equivalent of 100 conventional UPS delivery vehicles.”
The 200 new HEV delivery trucks are expected to reduce fuel consumption by roughly 176,000 gallons over the course of a year compared to an equivalent number of traditional diesel trucks. The hybrids also should reduce by 1,786 metric tons the amount of CO2 gases released annually into the atmosphere.
The new hybrid power system utilizes a conventional diesel engine combined with a battery pack, saving fuel and reducing pollution-causing emissions. The small diesel is used to recharge the battery pack and to add power when necessary.
The HEVs also use regenerative braking. The energy generated from applying the brakes is captured and returned to the battery as electricity. The combination of clean diesel power and electric power, supplemented by regenerative braking, allows dramatic improvements in fuel savings and emissions reductions.
The HEV fleet features two different size vehicles from Workhorse Custom Chassis and Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation and a hybrid power system from Eaton Corporation. The external truck bodies are identical to UPS’s other signature brown trucks, although they feature additional labeling identifying them as hybrid electrics. The trucks use lithium ion batteries, which offer a faster re-charging capability and last longer than previous generation HEV batteries. Additionally, these vehicles are much quieter than conventional UPS trucks and feature keyless entry.
The UPS alternative fuel fleet is a diverse one with multiple technologies, including compressed natural gas, liquefied natural gas, propane, electricity and hydraulic hybrid technology. Since 2000, the alternative fuel fleet has traveled more than 165 million miles.
UPS was the first package delivery company to introduce a hybrid electric vehicle into daily operation with a research program in early 1998. In 2001, the company deployed the industry's first hybrid electric delivery truck into regular service in Huntsville, Ala., where the truck worked a 31-mile route with about 160 pickups and deliveries each day. UPS then introduced its second generation HEV in Kalamazoo, Mich., in 2004, while at the same time testing its first hydrogen fuel cell delivery truck in regular service.
While continuing to develop its alternative fuel fleet – UPS has invested more than $15 million in the effort – the company also has purchased and is operating more than 20,000 low emission conventional vehicles. These vehicles have regular gas- and diesel-powered engines but employ the very latest technology and manufacturing techniques to reduce emissions as much as possible.
“The wide variety of technologies in our green fleet is indicative of UPS’s ‘rolling laboratory’ philosophy to energy efficiency and reduced fuel consumption,” Stoffel said. “Our goal is to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, but there is no silver bullet technology to achieve this. This dependence will rely on a multi-modal approach.”
UPS (NYSE:UPS) pursues a wide range of socially responsible and sustainable business practices designed to reduce its impact on the environment and improve communities around the world. UPS operates one of the largest fleets of alternative fuel vehicles in its industry with more than 2,000 vehicles and continues to invest in alternative fuel technologies and operational efficiencies to reduce its carbon footprint. UPS is included in the Dow Jones and FTSE4Good Sustainability Indexes, which evaluate corporations based on economic, environmental and social criteria. Learn more about UPS’s responsible business practices at www.ups.com/responsibility.
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Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Atlanta Gas Light STRIDES Forward with Pilot Program Designed to Encourage Economic Growth
/PRNewswire/ -- Atlanta Gas Light received approval from the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) today on a new program designed to encourage economic growth and spur the addition of new customers under the Georgia Strategic Infrastructure Development and Enhancement Program or (STRIDE). The new program will not increase monthly rates to consumers, but instead will be collected through the existing STRIDE surcharge for an additional three years.
The program, known as the Integrated Customer Growth Program or i-CGP, will allow Atlanta Gas Light to invest up to $45 million to extend its pipeline facilities to serve customers without pipeline access. The new program will also allow Atlanta Gas Light to install pipelines to create new economic development corridors in order to help spur growth.
The new line extension program under i-CGP is available for both residential and commercial customers. Currently many customers that want natural gas service and who are not located near an existing pipeline are required to make a cash payment to have service established. This has been a significant disincentive, particularly under the current economic conditions. The i-CGP program will reduce or eliminate this requirement for many potential customers.
The new strategic corridor development program will allow Atlanta Gas Light to make major investments to extend its gas distribution facilities to areas where growth is forecasted, or to locations where existing development does not have access to natural gas. This will be a new resource that will allow Atlanta Gas Light to work with state and local economic development officials to attract new business, with the potential of bringing jobs to Georgia.
"The Georgia Public Service Commission has given Atlanta Gas Light a new regulatory framework to restore growth on our system and help keep the pressure to increase rates down," said Suzanne Sitherwood, president, Atlanta Gas Light. "It also allows us to be a partner to spur economic development in more communities throughout the state where natural gas service is not presently available."
To avoid an increase in monthly rates due to the program, i-CGP will extend the duration of the STRIDE program by three years.
Atlanta Gas Light received approval from the PSC for its STRIDE program in October. STRIDE will install new pipeline and liquefied natural gas facilities throughout metro Atlanta to improve system reliability and operational performance on peak demand days. The first three year construction program of $175.7 million is underway and should be completed by 2012.
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The program, known as the Integrated Customer Growth Program or i-CGP, will allow Atlanta Gas Light to invest up to $45 million to extend its pipeline facilities to serve customers without pipeline access. The new program will also allow Atlanta Gas Light to install pipelines to create new economic development corridors in order to help spur growth.
The new line extension program under i-CGP is available for both residential and commercial customers. Currently many customers that want natural gas service and who are not located near an existing pipeline are required to make a cash payment to have service established. This has been a significant disincentive, particularly under the current economic conditions. The i-CGP program will reduce or eliminate this requirement for many potential customers.
The new strategic corridor development program will allow Atlanta Gas Light to make major investments to extend its gas distribution facilities to areas where growth is forecasted, or to locations where existing development does not have access to natural gas. This will be a new resource that will allow Atlanta Gas Light to work with state and local economic development officials to attract new business, with the potential of bringing jobs to Georgia.
"The Georgia Public Service Commission has given Atlanta Gas Light a new regulatory framework to restore growth on our system and help keep the pressure to increase rates down," said Suzanne Sitherwood, president, Atlanta Gas Light. "It also allows us to be a partner to spur economic development in more communities throughout the state where natural gas service is not presently available."
To avoid an increase in monthly rates due to the program, i-CGP will extend the duration of the STRIDE program by three years.
Atlanta Gas Light received approval from the PSC for its STRIDE program in October. STRIDE will install new pipeline and liquefied natural gas facilities throughout metro Atlanta to improve system reliability and operational performance on peak demand days. The first three year construction program of $175.7 million is underway and should be completed by 2012.
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Tuesday, January 12, 2010
AGL Resources Sets New Company Record for Peak-Day Gas Delivery
/PRNewswire/ -- AGL Resources (NYSE:AGL) today (January 11) announced that its six distribution companies have helped customers weather the cold temperatures dominating the East Coast by breaking the company record for peak-day natural gas delivery twice during the past week.
On Jan. 8, the company delivered 3,078,064 dekatherms of natural gas to customers within AGL Resources' footprint, which stretches from New Jersey to Florida. The company operates Atlanta Gas Light in Georgia, Chattanooga Gas in Tennessee, Elizabethtown Gas in New Jersey, Elkton Gas in Maryland, Florida City Gas in Florida and Virginia Natural Gas in Virginia.
The new record enabled AGL Resources to surpass the 3 million dekatherm mark for the first time in the company's 154-year history. The company's previous peak-day delivery record was set just five days earlier. On Jan. 3, AGL Resources provided customers with 2,926,099 dekatherms of natural gas.
"This has been an exceptional cold snap for the eastern United States, and I am proud that our local distribution companies have responded by ensuring that our customers have had the natural gas they needed to stay warm and safe," said Hank Linginfelter, executive vice president of Utility Operations.
"The ability of natural gas to meet the needs of millions of customers during this demanding period is even more impressive when you consider that it is the cleanest-burning fossil fuel and that we have more than 100 years of proven reserves in North America," Linginfelter said. "When you add it all up, natural gas is unsurpassed when it comes to a safe and reliable energy source that is environmentally friendly and domestically abundant."
During the first eight days of 2010, AGL Resources' Gas Control organization managed the safe and efficient delivery of more than 21.5 million dekatherms of natural gas to customers in six states.
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On Jan. 8, the company delivered 3,078,064 dekatherms of natural gas to customers within AGL Resources' footprint, which stretches from New Jersey to Florida. The company operates Atlanta Gas Light in Georgia, Chattanooga Gas in Tennessee, Elizabethtown Gas in New Jersey, Elkton Gas in Maryland, Florida City Gas in Florida and Virginia Natural Gas in Virginia.
The new record enabled AGL Resources to surpass the 3 million dekatherm mark for the first time in the company's 154-year history. The company's previous peak-day delivery record was set just five days earlier. On Jan. 3, AGL Resources provided customers with 2,926,099 dekatherms of natural gas.
"This has been an exceptional cold snap for the eastern United States, and I am proud that our local distribution companies have responded by ensuring that our customers have had the natural gas they needed to stay warm and safe," said Hank Linginfelter, executive vice president of Utility Operations.
"The ability of natural gas to meet the needs of millions of customers during this demanding period is even more impressive when you consider that it is the cleanest-burning fossil fuel and that we have more than 100 years of proven reserves in North America," Linginfelter said. "When you add it all up, natural gas is unsurpassed when it comes to a safe and reliable energy source that is environmentally friendly and domestically abundant."
During the first eight days of 2010, AGL Resources' Gas Control organization managed the safe and efficient delivery of more than 21.5 million dekatherms of natural gas to customers in six states.
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Monday, November 16, 2009
Georgia Power, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Forge Green Energy Partnership
/PRNewswire/ -- The nation's premier public health agency, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), has signed a two-year contract with Georgia Power to purchase renewable energy for its centers nationwide.
The purchase of more than 364,600 blocks of green energy, or 5 percent of the organization's annual kilowatt-hour consumption, will make the CDC Georgia Power's largest Green Energy customer.
"This recent purchase by the CDC really demonstrates the agency's commitment to the environment and the development of renewable energy in Georgia and around the country," said Ervan Hancock, Georgia Power's renewable and green strategies manager. "By purchasing such a large number of blocks of green energy, the agency has clearly taken a leadership role among its counterparts and given a significant boost to the program."
By using environmentally friendly green energy generated from sources like the sun, wind, water, landfill methane and biomass, the CDC will help protect the environment, conserve natural resources, help promote the use of renewable energy in Georgia and support domestic self-reliance.
The CDC made its purchase through the large volume option of the Green Energy program. Georgia Power is currently getting most of its electricity for the program from a landfill methane-to-energy plant at the Seminole Landfill in DeKalb County.
Since Georgia Power began the Green Energy program in October 2006, more than 4,300 customers have committed to purchase in excess of 3 million kilowatt-hours of green energy, or enough electricity to power approximately 3,100 homes using 1,000 kilowatt-hours a month.
Residential customers can purchase 100-kilowatt-hour blocks of Green Energy for $3.50 per block, which is added to their monthly electricity bill. They may also choose Green Energy that includes a solar component for $4.50 per block.
Georgia Power is the largest subsidiary of Southern Company, one of the nation's largest generators of electricity. The company is an investor-owned, tax-paying utility with rates well below the national average. Georgia Power serves 2.3 million customers in all but four of Georgia's 159 counties.
The CDC is the nation's disease prevention and wellness promotion agency, protecting people's health and safety, providing credible information to enhance health decisions, and improving health through strong partnerships. The agency includes 18 institutes, centers and offices, with approximately 14,000, full-time, part-time and contract employees. CDC is headquartered in Atlanta and has experts located throughout the United States and in 54 countries.
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The purchase of more than 364,600 blocks of green energy, or 5 percent of the organization's annual kilowatt-hour consumption, will make the CDC Georgia Power's largest Green Energy customer.
"This recent purchase by the CDC really demonstrates the agency's commitment to the environment and the development of renewable energy in Georgia and around the country," said Ervan Hancock, Georgia Power's renewable and green strategies manager. "By purchasing such a large number of blocks of green energy, the agency has clearly taken a leadership role among its counterparts and given a significant boost to the program."
By using environmentally friendly green energy generated from sources like the sun, wind, water, landfill methane and biomass, the CDC will help protect the environment, conserve natural resources, help promote the use of renewable energy in Georgia and support domestic self-reliance.
The CDC made its purchase through the large volume option of the Green Energy program. Georgia Power is currently getting most of its electricity for the program from a landfill methane-to-energy plant at the Seminole Landfill in DeKalb County.
Since Georgia Power began the Green Energy program in October 2006, more than 4,300 customers have committed to purchase in excess of 3 million kilowatt-hours of green energy, or enough electricity to power approximately 3,100 homes using 1,000 kilowatt-hours a month.
Residential customers can purchase 100-kilowatt-hour blocks of Green Energy for $3.50 per block, which is added to their monthly electricity bill. They may also choose Green Energy that includes a solar component for $4.50 per block.
Georgia Power is the largest subsidiary of Southern Company, one of the nation's largest generators of electricity. The company is an investor-owned, tax-paying utility with rates well below the national average. Georgia Power serves 2.3 million customers in all but four of Georgia's 159 counties.
The CDC is the nation's disease prevention and wellness promotion agency, protecting people's health and safety, providing credible information to enhance health decisions, and improving health through strong partnerships. The agency includes 18 institutes, centers and offices, with approximately 14,000, full-time, part-time and contract employees. CDC is headquartered in Atlanta and has experts located throughout the United States and in 54 countries.
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Reducing Greenhoue Gases May Not be Enough to Slow Climate Change
Georgia Tech City and Regional Planning Professor Brian Stone publishes a paper in the December edition of Environmental Science and Technology that suggests policymakers need to address the influence of global deforestation and urbanization on climate change, in addition to greenhouse gas emissions.
According to Stone’s paper, as the international community meets in Copenhagen in December to develop a new framework for responding to climate change, policymakers need to give serious consideration to broadening the range of management strategies beyond greenhouse gas reductions alone.
“Across the U.S. as a whole, approximately 50 percent of the warming that has occurred since 1950 is due to land use changes (usually in the form of clearing forest for crops or cities) rather than to the emission of greenhouse gases,” said Stone. “Most large U.S. cities, including Atlanta, are warming at more than twice the rate of the planet as a whole – a rate that is mostly attributable to land use change. As a result, emissions reduction programs – like the cap and trade program under consideration by the U.S. Congress – may not sufficiently slow climate change in large cities where most people live and where land use change is the dominant driver of warming.”
According to Stone’s research, slowing the rate of forest loss around the world, and regenerating forests where lost, could significantly slow the pace of global warming.
“Treaty negotiators should formally recognize land use change as a key driver of warming,” said Stone. “The role of land use in global warming is the most important climate-related story that has not been widely covered in the media.”
Stone recommends slowing what he terms the “green loss effect” through the planting of millions of trees in urbanized areas and through the protection and regeneration of global forests outside of urbanized regions. Forested areas provide the combined benefits of directly cooling the atmosphere and of absorbing greenhouse gases, leading to additional cooling. Green architecture in cities, including green roofs and more highly reflective construction materials, would further contribute to a slowing of warming rates. Stone envisions local and state governments taking the lead in addressing the land use drivers of climate change, while the federal government takes the lead in implementing carbon reduction initiatives, like cap and trade programs.
“As we look to address the climate change issue from a land use perspective, there is a huge opportunity for local and state governments,” said Stone. “Presently, local government capacity is largely unharnessed in climate management structures under consideration by the U.S. Congress. Yet local governments possess extensive powers to manage the land use activities in both the urban and rural areas.”
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According to Stone’s paper, as the international community meets in Copenhagen in December to develop a new framework for responding to climate change, policymakers need to give serious consideration to broadening the range of management strategies beyond greenhouse gas reductions alone.
“Across the U.S. as a whole, approximately 50 percent of the warming that has occurred since 1950 is due to land use changes (usually in the form of clearing forest for crops or cities) rather than to the emission of greenhouse gases,” said Stone. “Most large U.S. cities, including Atlanta, are warming at more than twice the rate of the planet as a whole – a rate that is mostly attributable to land use change. As a result, emissions reduction programs – like the cap and trade program under consideration by the U.S. Congress – may not sufficiently slow climate change in large cities where most people live and where land use change is the dominant driver of warming.”
According to Stone’s research, slowing the rate of forest loss around the world, and regenerating forests where lost, could significantly slow the pace of global warming.
“Treaty negotiators should formally recognize land use change as a key driver of warming,” said Stone. “The role of land use in global warming is the most important climate-related story that has not been widely covered in the media.”
Stone recommends slowing what he terms the “green loss effect” through the planting of millions of trees in urbanized areas and through the protection and regeneration of global forests outside of urbanized regions. Forested areas provide the combined benefits of directly cooling the atmosphere and of absorbing greenhouse gases, leading to additional cooling. Green architecture in cities, including green roofs and more highly reflective construction materials, would further contribute to a slowing of warming rates. Stone envisions local and state governments taking the lead in addressing the land use drivers of climate change, while the federal government takes the lead in implementing carbon reduction initiatives, like cap and trade programs.
“As we look to address the climate change issue from a land use perspective, there is a huge opportunity for local and state governments,” said Stone. “Presently, local government capacity is largely unharnessed in climate management structures under consideration by the U.S. Congress. Yet local governments possess extensive powers to manage the land use activities in both the urban and rural areas.”
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Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Vendor Information Meetings Set for Plant Vogtle 3 and 4
Georgia Power, Southern Nuclear and The Shaw Group will host several supplier information meetings to familiarize local vendors with the procurement process for the new construction at Plant Vogtle.
Meetings are being held in the following locations: Waynesboro, Augusta, Savannah and Atlanta.
-- The Waynesboro meeting will be held Dec. 1 at 7:00 p.m. at Burke
County High School located at 1057 Burke Veterans Parkway in
Waynesboro.
-- The Augusta meeting will be held Dec. 3 at 7:00 p.m. at the Augusta
Marriott Hotel and Suites located at Two 10th Street in Augusta.
At these sessions potential suppliers will learn more about the construction project and find out about available opportunities to provide products, materials and services to support construction.
Participants must register in advance at http://www.georgiapower.com/supplier/ . Space is limited on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Similar sessions will also be held in Savannah on Jan. 19, 2010, at the Savannah Marriott Riverfront Hotel and in Atlanta at the Georgia Power Corporate Headquarters on Jan. 27 and 28. Specific information on those meetings can also be found at the Web site.
Georgia Power is the largest subsidiary of Southern Company, one of the nation's largest generators of electricity. The company is an investor-owned, tax-paying utility with rates well below the national average. Georgia Power serves 2.3 million customers in all but four of Georgia's 159 counties.
Southern Nuclear, a subsidiary of Southern Company, operates the Edwin I. Hatch Nuclear Plant near Baxley, Ga., the Joseph M. Farley Nuclear Plant near Dothan, Ala. and the Alvin W. Vogtle Electric Generating Plant near Waynesboro, Ga.
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Meetings are being held in the following locations: Waynesboro, Augusta, Savannah and Atlanta.
-- The Waynesboro meeting will be held Dec. 1 at 7:00 p.m. at Burke
County High School located at 1057 Burke Veterans Parkway in
Waynesboro.
-- The Augusta meeting will be held Dec. 3 at 7:00 p.m. at the Augusta
Marriott Hotel and Suites located at Two 10th Street in Augusta.
At these sessions potential suppliers will learn more about the construction project and find out about available opportunities to provide products, materials and services to support construction.
Participants must register in advance at http://www.georgiapower.com/supplier/ . Space is limited on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Similar sessions will also be held in Savannah on Jan. 19, 2010, at the Savannah Marriott Riverfront Hotel and in Atlanta at the Georgia Power Corporate Headquarters on Jan. 27 and 28. Specific information on those meetings can also be found at the Web site.
Georgia Power is the largest subsidiary of Southern Company, one of the nation's largest generators of electricity. The company is an investor-owned, tax-paying utility with rates well below the national average. Georgia Power serves 2.3 million customers in all but four of Georgia's 159 counties.
Southern Nuclear, a subsidiary of Southern Company, operates the Edwin I. Hatch Nuclear Plant near Baxley, Ga., the Joseph M. Farley Nuclear Plant near Dothan, Ala. and the Alvin W. Vogtle Electric Generating Plant near Waynesboro, Ga.
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Monday, November 2, 2009
Electric Utilities Are Invited to Shed Light on Energy Efficiency
/PRNewswire/ -- Electric utilities across the country are invited to help bring consumers out of the dark about the importance of energy efficiency. Power companies can now provide easy access to information about their energy efficiency programs at no charge on www.ziptogreen.com, a new one-stop online resource for energy efficiency and renewable energy solutions. ZiptoGreen's user-friendly format can link consumers by ZIP Code to energy efficiency and renewable energy programs offered by their electric utility. A survey conducted by ZiptoGreen found that more than 75 percent of consumers do not connect to their utility for help in reducing energy consumption.
Beginning with the end of daylight savings time until the clocks move forward again, power companies can collaborate with ZiptoGreen to illuminate the importance of energy efficiency by providing links to their energy efficiency programs and incentives at no charge. When daylight savings time arrives in March, ZiptoGreen hopes consumers are "enlightened" about the importance of partnering with their utility to meet their energy reduction goals. Utilities that collaborate with ZiptoGreen during this period can become Charter Members and substantially reduce their participation fees thereafter.
"Many consumers are too busy and overwhelmed to spend time looking for programs offered by their utility company," says Julia Glenn Carter, founder and CEO of ZiptoGreen. "A comprehensive website was needed that gives residential consumers easy access to the wealth of energy efficiency solutions available right now, including those offered by utilities. Such a website is essential if we are going to tackle our energy challenges any time soon. Consumers need and want help reducing their monthly costs."
According to a report released in October by the Energy Information Administration of the U.S. Department of Energy, a weak economy has contributed to lower energy consumption in both the commercial and residential sectors. Experts expect consumption to increase as the economy rebounds, however. According to a U.S. Department of Commerce report released last week, modest but consistent growth from July to September suggests economic recovery has begun. While natural gas prices have fallen with the economy, coal prices for electricity generation are expected to increase by 7 percent, according to the EIA report.
ZiptoGreen helps consumers become energy efficient by making it easy for them to create and implement a customized action plan. Users of the website can see in real-time the impact actions have on estimated energy usage. When a user clicks on an incentive icon associated with a specific action, ZiptoGreen calls up a window with incentive information. Currently, federal tax incentive information is featured; however, participating utilities and state governments can provide incentive information on their programs by ZIP Code.
ZiptoGreen also provides ongoing support to help consumers achieve energy reduction goals. Users can schedule and receive email reminders of their actions. In addition, they are given a personal page to monitor and update their reduction plan, and product discount "rewards" to motivate action.
"Most people need a little hand holding to change a habit. How we consume energy is definitely a habit," says Carter.
From the personal page, ZiptoGreen supports users by providing links to local resources serving their ZIP Code, including the energy efficiency and renewable energy programs of participating utilities. The sustainability programs of cities that have signed the U.S. Conference of Mayors Climate Protection Program are also featured. Any community, however, can provide these links to their residents at no charge. Interested local governments should email ZiptoGreen at communities@ziptogreen.com.
User access to all resources on www.ziptogreen.com is free of charge.
ZiptoGreen was a featured link on the Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy of the U.S. Department of Energy during its launch in Washington, D.C. The website is owned by LaCour Incorporated, a privately-held corporation based in Atlanta, Georgia. For additional information visit www.ziptogreen.com.
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Beginning with the end of daylight savings time until the clocks move forward again, power companies can collaborate with ZiptoGreen to illuminate the importance of energy efficiency by providing links to their energy efficiency programs and incentives at no charge. When daylight savings time arrives in March, ZiptoGreen hopes consumers are "enlightened" about the importance of partnering with their utility to meet their energy reduction goals. Utilities that collaborate with ZiptoGreen during this period can become Charter Members and substantially reduce their participation fees thereafter.
"Many consumers are too busy and overwhelmed to spend time looking for programs offered by their utility company," says Julia Glenn Carter, founder and CEO of ZiptoGreen. "A comprehensive website was needed that gives residential consumers easy access to the wealth of energy efficiency solutions available right now, including those offered by utilities. Such a website is essential if we are going to tackle our energy challenges any time soon. Consumers need and want help reducing their monthly costs."
According to a report released in October by the Energy Information Administration of the U.S. Department of Energy, a weak economy has contributed to lower energy consumption in both the commercial and residential sectors. Experts expect consumption to increase as the economy rebounds, however. According to a U.S. Department of Commerce report released last week, modest but consistent growth from July to September suggests economic recovery has begun. While natural gas prices have fallen with the economy, coal prices for electricity generation are expected to increase by 7 percent, according to the EIA report.
ZiptoGreen helps consumers become energy efficient by making it easy for them to create and implement a customized action plan. Users of the website can see in real-time the impact actions have on estimated energy usage. When a user clicks on an incentive icon associated with a specific action, ZiptoGreen calls up a window with incentive information. Currently, federal tax incentive information is featured; however, participating utilities and state governments can provide incentive information on their programs by ZIP Code.
ZiptoGreen also provides ongoing support to help consumers achieve energy reduction goals. Users can schedule and receive email reminders of their actions. In addition, they are given a personal page to monitor and update their reduction plan, and product discount "rewards" to motivate action.
"Most people need a little hand holding to change a habit. How we consume energy is definitely a habit," says Carter.
From the personal page, ZiptoGreen supports users by providing links to local resources serving their ZIP Code, including the energy efficiency and renewable energy programs of participating utilities. The sustainability programs of cities that have signed the U.S. Conference of Mayors Climate Protection Program are also featured. Any community, however, can provide these links to their residents at no charge. Interested local governments should email ZiptoGreen at communities@ziptogreen.com.
User access to all resources on www.ziptogreen.com is free of charge.
ZiptoGreen was a featured link on the Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy of the U.S. Department of Energy during its launch in Washington, D.C. The website is owned by LaCour Incorporated, a privately-held corporation based in Atlanta, Georgia. For additional information visit www.ziptogreen.com.
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Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Suniva, FLS Energy Target Southeast U.S. With High-Performance U.S. Solar Farm
(BUSINESS WIRE)--Suniva, Inc., a U.S. manufacturer of high-efficiency monocrystalline silicon solar cells and modules, and FLS Energy, a North Carolina-based solar energy generation company, yesterday announced they will integrate Suniva’s high-power, solar modules in a series of installations in the southeastern U.S. The first project is a 550 kW solar farm that will occupy a former landfill; implementation is underway in North Carolina. FLS Energy has a 20 year power purchase agreement to sell the solar generated electricity to Progress Energy.
“We’re seeing unprecedented demand in the Southeast for solar,” said Michael Shore, president of FLS Energy. “In order to address the rapidly expanding market here, FLS is committed to using the most advanced, efficient, and cost-effective solar technology available. Working with Suniva will allow us to address growing demand with technology that combines high-yield solar power with high-quality U.S. manufacturing content.”
Suniva’s UL and IEC certified, CEC listed solar modules contain more than 90% U.S. content and offer a 25-year performance warranty, representing the highest quality standards in today’s industry. The modules are powered by Suniva’s high-efficiency ARTisun® series solar cells and deliver peak power output up to 300watts, one of the highest in the industry. High power output is a key factor in reducing installation and balance-of-system costs in all installations.
“Working with FLS Energy, Suniva will play a major role in driving growth in the southeastern solar market,” said John Baumstark, CEO of Suniva. “Our solar modules Powered by Suniva™ cell technology will enable FLS’s installations to deliver some of the highest levels of performance and reliability in the industry.”
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“We’re seeing unprecedented demand in the Southeast for solar,” said Michael Shore, president of FLS Energy. “In order to address the rapidly expanding market here, FLS is committed to using the most advanced, efficient, and cost-effective solar technology available. Working with Suniva will allow us to address growing demand with technology that combines high-yield solar power with high-quality U.S. manufacturing content.”
Suniva’s UL and IEC certified, CEC listed solar modules contain more than 90% U.S. content and offer a 25-year performance warranty, representing the highest quality standards in today’s industry. The modules are powered by Suniva’s high-efficiency ARTisun® series solar cells and deliver peak power output up to 300watts, one of the highest in the industry. High power output is a key factor in reducing installation and balance-of-system costs in all installations.
“Working with FLS Energy, Suniva will play a major role in driving growth in the southeastern solar market,” said John Baumstark, CEO of Suniva. “Our solar modules Powered by Suniva™ cell technology will enable FLS’s installations to deliver some of the highest levels of performance and reliability in the industry.”
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Southern Company Awarded $165 Million to Advance Smart Grid Initiatives
/PRNewswire/ -- Southern Company yesterday announced that it has been awarded a $165 million in stimulus funds as part of President Obama's plan to invest $3.4 billion to spur transition to a smarter energy grid.
"As an industry leader in developing and deploying new technologies, Southern Company is pleased to be among those selected to advance this critical investment in our nation's electric infrastructure," said Southern Company Chairman, President and CEO David Ratcliffe. "These funds will be used to augment the company's robust investment in grid reliability, already among the nation's best, and make it more efficient and secure."
Southern Company received the grant to integrate smart-grid technology into its transmission and distribution system that can:
-- Reduce the loss of electricity as it moves from the generating plant
to homes and businesses; reducing delivery losses can have a direct
environmental and economic impact by increasing efficiency and
reducing carbon emissions
-- Better locate the area of an outage before dispatching crews, reducing
outage time for customers
-- Improve monitoring and control capabilities of the system while
enhancing proven grid reliability
For example, line devices with two-way communication will be installed to enable system operators to isolate faulted lines remotely. Moreover, some of these devices will be placed in self-healing network schemes that will automatically isolate trouble areas and then restore power to unaffected portions of the circuit, all without operator intervention.
The company will match the $165 million in funding as part of an initiative across Southern Company's service territory that spans the states of Alabama, Florida, Georgia and Mississippi.
The grant awarded to Southern Company was among the top 10 made by the administration.
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"As an industry leader in developing and deploying new technologies, Southern Company is pleased to be among those selected to advance this critical investment in our nation's electric infrastructure," said Southern Company Chairman, President and CEO David Ratcliffe. "These funds will be used to augment the company's robust investment in grid reliability, already among the nation's best, and make it more efficient and secure."
Southern Company received the grant to integrate smart-grid technology into its transmission and distribution system that can:
-- Reduce the loss of electricity as it moves from the generating plant
to homes and businesses; reducing delivery losses can have a direct
environmental and economic impact by increasing efficiency and
reducing carbon emissions
-- Better locate the area of an outage before dispatching crews, reducing
outage time for customers
-- Improve monitoring and control capabilities of the system while
enhancing proven grid reliability
For example, line devices with two-way communication will be installed to enable system operators to isolate faulted lines remotely. Moreover, some of these devices will be placed in self-healing network schemes that will automatically isolate trouble areas and then restore power to unaffected portions of the circuit, all without operator intervention.
The company will match the $165 million in funding as part of an initiative across Southern Company's service territory that spans the states of Alabama, Florida, Georgia and Mississippi.
The grant awarded to Southern Company was among the top 10 made by the administration.
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GE Announces Latest Advancements to Leading Gas Turbine
(BUSINESS WIRE)--Using next generation gas turbine technology to increase output and efficiency, GE Energy today introduced its upgraded Frame 7FA gas turbine to meet growing performance requirements for power plant operators. The upgraded turbine is designed to help power plant operators reduce their total cost of ownership and environmental impact by allowing them to use less fuel to generate power.
The continuing evolution of GE’s gas turbine technology supports a growing industry trend toward the use of natural gas. A recent report by the Colorado School of Mines indicated that following recent discoveries, the United States now has 1,800 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, the equivalent of 320 billion barrels of oil—more than Saudi Arabia’s 264 billion barrels. That available supply, coupled with the current low cost and the fact that natural gas emits less carbon than other fossil fuels, has spurred many power generators to consider switching from other fuels to gas.
A typical power plant operating two new 7FA gas turbines with a single steam turbine in combined cycle configuration would achieve a fuel cost savings of more than $2.1 million per year at a natural gas price of $6 per MMBtu when compared to a similar plant with an earlier version of the 7FA for equivalent net plant output. This updated plant would also avoid the emission of more than 19,000 metric tons of CO2 per year compared to the earlier version, an improvement equivalent to the CO2 emissions of approximately 3,800 cars on U.S. roads.
“Investing in the needs of tomorrow with R&D and technology is at the foundation of GE and helps us to maintain a competitive advantage in the power generation arena,” said Steve Bolze, president of GE Energy’s Power & Water business. “Today’s announcement demonstrates our ongoing commitment to GE’s leadership in advanced gas turbine technology that helps deliver power more efficiently and flexibly to our customers without compromising their high standards for operational excellence.”
“Since its introduction, our F technology has consistently set industry standards for reliability and efficiency,” said Rick Stanley, vice president of engineering for GE Energy. “The 7FA upgrade underscores our commitment to continue refining the technology to meet the evolving needs of today’s customers.”
“GE is focused on delivering products and services that help our customers save significant operating costs while simultaneously slashing emissions and fuel consumption. We have amassed technological advances from across our expansive portfolio of power generating and aviation turbines and delivered them in this upgraded 7FA turbine,” said John Reinker, general manager of gas turbine and combined cycle products for GE Energy. “Of the 1,000 plus GE F-technology gas turbines shipped worldwide, more than 70% are 7FA units—and the advances now available for the 7FA will ensure that it continues to be the industry's workhorse advanced technology turbine.”
Many companies have already evaluated the new gas turbine technology. Some of the first new 7FA turbines are planned for the proposed Oakley Generating Station in Oakley, Calif. The plant, which is projected to generate 586 megawatts of power, is being developed by Radback Energy, Inc., and is expected to be transferred to Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) after it enters commercial operation.
The new turbine is a part of GE’s ecomagination portfolio, due to the increase in net plant efficiency and higher output delivered by this machine compared to all earlier 7FA models, which should result in less fuel consumption and lower emissions on a megawatt per hour basis than delivered by previous 7FA models.
Key regions for the upgraded, 60-hertz 7FA will include North America, Latin America, Saudi Arabia, Japan, Taiwan and South Korea. The upgraded 7FA will begin shipping in early 2012 and will be manufactured at GE Energy’s gas turbine facility in Greenville, S.C.
GE ecomagination certification
The ecomagination Product Review (EPR) process provides a third-party verification of claims, quantifying operating and environmental performance benefits that accrue to GE’s customers by using ecomagination products relative to baselines such as competitors' best products, the installed base of products and regulatory standards. These ecomagination claims can be found in GE's printed materials and advertisements and on the Web at www.ge.com/ecomagination. Ecomagination products are re-certified regularly to help ensure that claims remain accurate.
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The continuing evolution of GE’s gas turbine technology supports a growing industry trend toward the use of natural gas. A recent report by the Colorado School of Mines indicated that following recent discoveries, the United States now has 1,800 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, the equivalent of 320 billion barrels of oil—more than Saudi Arabia’s 264 billion barrels. That available supply, coupled with the current low cost and the fact that natural gas emits less carbon than other fossil fuels, has spurred many power generators to consider switching from other fuels to gas.
A typical power plant operating two new 7FA gas turbines with a single steam turbine in combined cycle configuration would achieve a fuel cost savings of more than $2.1 million per year at a natural gas price of $6 per MMBtu when compared to a similar plant with an earlier version of the 7FA for equivalent net plant output. This updated plant would also avoid the emission of more than 19,000 metric tons of CO2 per year compared to the earlier version, an improvement equivalent to the CO2 emissions of approximately 3,800 cars on U.S. roads.
“Investing in the needs of tomorrow with R&D and technology is at the foundation of GE and helps us to maintain a competitive advantage in the power generation arena,” said Steve Bolze, president of GE Energy’s Power & Water business. “Today’s announcement demonstrates our ongoing commitment to GE’s leadership in advanced gas turbine technology that helps deliver power more efficiently and flexibly to our customers without compromising their high standards for operational excellence.”
“Since its introduction, our F technology has consistently set industry standards for reliability and efficiency,” said Rick Stanley, vice president of engineering for GE Energy. “The 7FA upgrade underscores our commitment to continue refining the technology to meet the evolving needs of today’s customers.”
“GE is focused on delivering products and services that help our customers save significant operating costs while simultaneously slashing emissions and fuel consumption. We have amassed technological advances from across our expansive portfolio of power generating and aviation turbines and delivered them in this upgraded 7FA turbine,” said John Reinker, general manager of gas turbine and combined cycle products for GE Energy. “Of the 1,000 plus GE F-technology gas turbines shipped worldwide, more than 70% are 7FA units—and the advances now available for the 7FA will ensure that it continues to be the industry's workhorse advanced technology turbine.”
Many companies have already evaluated the new gas turbine technology. Some of the first new 7FA turbines are planned for the proposed Oakley Generating Station in Oakley, Calif. The plant, which is projected to generate 586 megawatts of power, is being developed by Radback Energy, Inc., and is expected to be transferred to Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) after it enters commercial operation.
The new turbine is a part of GE’s ecomagination portfolio, due to the increase in net plant efficiency and higher output delivered by this machine compared to all earlier 7FA models, which should result in less fuel consumption and lower emissions on a megawatt per hour basis than delivered by previous 7FA models.
Key regions for the upgraded, 60-hertz 7FA will include North America, Latin America, Saudi Arabia, Japan, Taiwan and South Korea. The upgraded 7FA will begin shipping in early 2012 and will be manufactured at GE Energy’s gas turbine facility in Greenville, S.C.
GE ecomagination certification
The ecomagination Product Review (EPR) process provides a third-party verification of claims, quantifying operating and environmental performance benefits that accrue to GE’s customers by using ecomagination products relative to baselines such as competitors' best products, the installed base of products and regulatory standards. These ecomagination claims can be found in GE's printed materials and advertisements and on the Web at www.ge.com/ecomagination. Ecomagination products are re-certified regularly to help ensure that claims remain accurate.
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Monday, October 26, 2009
Grant funds weatherization, energy education
A $1.3 million stimulus grant to University of Georgia College of Family and Consumer Sciences will help Georgians reduce their energy bills and carbon footprint, and create jobs in Georgia.
Jorge H. Atiles, extension professor of housing and FCS associate dean, received the grant from the Georgia Environmental Facilities Authority. The authority manages federal stimulus funds from the U.S. Department of Energy for the Georgia Low-Income Weatherization Assistance Program.
Weatherization assistance is provided directly by Community Action agencies and similar energy assistance agencies in the state to reduce infiltration and improve energy performance in homes of those on limited-incomes. The $1.3 million grant will fund the first seven months of a UGA Cooperative Extension program that will monitor weatherization activities and provide energy conservation education across the state to Georgians receiving weatherization assistance.
Atiles said the grant will create a sustainable weatherization program that aims to ensure that after homes are weatherized, their occupants will be in the best position to realize energy savings and reduce their carbon footprint. The project will help Georgians meet the Governor´s Energy Challenge to reduce energy bills by 15 percent by 2020.
The current contract is eligible for an additional two-year funding renewal that could exceed $4.5 million for this sustainable weatherization monitoring and education program.
"Through this grant, UGA Cooperative Extension will be able to save at least five jobs and fund 20 new positions reaching every Extension district in the state. We are realizing one of the many goals of the federal stimulus package: the creation and preservation of jobs," Atiles said.
UGA Extension is a partnership between UGA colleges of Family and Consumer Sciences and Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.
By Mandi Colson
University of Georgia
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Jorge H. Atiles, extension professor of housing and FCS associate dean, received the grant from the Georgia Environmental Facilities Authority. The authority manages federal stimulus funds from the U.S. Department of Energy for the Georgia Low-Income Weatherization Assistance Program.
Weatherization assistance is provided directly by Community Action agencies and similar energy assistance agencies in the state to reduce infiltration and improve energy performance in homes of those on limited-incomes. The $1.3 million grant will fund the first seven months of a UGA Cooperative Extension program that will monitor weatherization activities and provide energy conservation education across the state to Georgians receiving weatherization assistance.
Atiles said the grant will create a sustainable weatherization program that aims to ensure that after homes are weatherized, their occupants will be in the best position to realize energy savings and reduce their carbon footprint. The project will help Georgians meet the Governor´s Energy Challenge to reduce energy bills by 15 percent by 2020.
The current contract is eligible for an additional two-year funding renewal that could exceed $4.5 million for this sustainable weatherization monitoring and education program.
"Through this grant, UGA Cooperative Extension will be able to save at least five jobs and fund 20 new positions reaching every Extension district in the state. We are realizing one of the many goals of the federal stimulus package: the creation and preservation of jobs," Atiles said.
UGA Extension is a partnership between UGA colleges of Family and Consumer Sciences and Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.
By Mandi Colson
University of Georgia
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Thursday, October 22, 2009
Landrieu, Chambliss Announce Creation of Senate Natural Gas Caucus
United States Senators Mary L. Landrieu, D-La., and Saxby Chambliss, R-Ga., today announced the creation of the bipartisan Senate Natural Gas Caucus.
“When we produce natural gas in America, we produce jobs in America,” said Sen. Landrieu, Co-Chair of the Senate Natural Gas caucus. “A reliable and affordable supply of U.S. energy has profound impacts on every sector of our economy and is the backbone of the U.S. employment base. Natural gas is a clean burning, low-carbon fuel that is predominantly produced here at home. This caucus will serve to investigate and debate the economic and national security implications of the newfound abundance of natural gas in the United States.”
“America has an abundant supply of clean, natural gas and has the means to access these resources in an environmentally friendly way,” said Chambliss. “Increasing domestic production is a critical component of a comprehensive energy policy that will reduce America’s dependence on foreign sources for our energy needs. I’m pleased to join Senator Landrieu in creating this caucus. It is my hope that we can start a serious conversation in the Senate about our nation’s energy policy.”
Natural gas is produced in 33 states and relied upon as an energy source in many others. Over 20 percent of the electricity in the United States is generated by natural gas. Natural gas is also an important feedstock in chemical and fertilizer production, and is used to eliminate soot in clean diesel fuel. Natural gas is used as a raw material that goes into lightweight cars, wind power blades, solar panels and energy-efficient materials.
In 2008, nearly 90 percent of the natural gas consumed in the United States came from domestic U.S. supplies. Thanks to technological advances, the U.S. now has triple the amount of natural gas than was estimated in 1966, and 40 percent more than previously believed just a couple of years ago.
Approximately 1.3 million people are employed directly by the companies that drill, ship and supply natural gas to American consumers, with another 2.7 million Americans employed in supporting positions indirectly created by the development of America's domestic energy supplies. The combined economic impact of natural gas development, exploration, production and usage to the U.S. economy in 2008 was $385.5 billion.
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“When we produce natural gas in America, we produce jobs in America,” said Sen. Landrieu, Co-Chair of the Senate Natural Gas caucus. “A reliable and affordable supply of U.S. energy has profound impacts on every sector of our economy and is the backbone of the U.S. employment base. Natural gas is a clean burning, low-carbon fuel that is predominantly produced here at home. This caucus will serve to investigate and debate the economic and national security implications of the newfound abundance of natural gas in the United States.”
“America has an abundant supply of clean, natural gas and has the means to access these resources in an environmentally friendly way,” said Chambliss. “Increasing domestic production is a critical component of a comprehensive energy policy that will reduce America’s dependence on foreign sources for our energy needs. I’m pleased to join Senator Landrieu in creating this caucus. It is my hope that we can start a serious conversation in the Senate about our nation’s energy policy.”
Natural gas is produced in 33 states and relied upon as an energy source in many others. Over 20 percent of the electricity in the United States is generated by natural gas. Natural gas is also an important feedstock in chemical and fertilizer production, and is used to eliminate soot in clean diesel fuel. Natural gas is used as a raw material that goes into lightweight cars, wind power blades, solar panels and energy-efficient materials.
In 2008, nearly 90 percent of the natural gas consumed in the United States came from domestic U.S. supplies. Thanks to technological advances, the U.S. now has triple the amount of natural gas than was estimated in 1966, and 40 percent more than previously believed just a couple of years ago.
Approximately 1.3 million people are employed directly by the companies that drill, ship and supply natural gas to American consumers, with another 2.7 million Americans employed in supporting positions indirectly created by the development of America's domestic energy supplies. The combined economic impact of natural gas development, exploration, production and usage to the U.S. economy in 2008 was $385.5 billion.
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HHS Provides More Than $2.6 Billion to States to Help Low-Income Households with Energy Costs
HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius today announced the release of more than $2.6 billion to states to help low income citizens with their heating bills during October, November and December of this year. These funds represent grants to states, tribes and territories under the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
"By releasing this money now, we are helping to provide needed assistance to millions of Americans who otherwise might not be able to afford heat this winter," Secretary Sebelius said. "This program helps to offset seasonal energy costs for low income families, leaving more of
their income to use for other necessities."
LIHEAP helps eligible families pay the costs of heating and insulating their homes in the winter, and cooling their homes in the summer. HHS is releasing such a large allocation of LIHEAP funds now in order to ensure that states have resources available to support their energy assistance programs as the weather turns colder.
"Each year LIHEAP helps more than five million low income households deal with energy costs," said Carmen Nazario, assistant secretary for children and families. "We will continue to work with states, tribes and territories to assure their heating assistance programs work effectively."
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"By releasing this money now, we are helping to provide needed assistance to millions of Americans who otherwise might not be able to afford heat this winter," Secretary Sebelius said. "This program helps to offset seasonal energy costs for low income families, leaving more of
their income to use for other necessities."
LIHEAP helps eligible families pay the costs of heating and insulating their homes in the winter, and cooling their homes in the summer. HHS is releasing such a large allocation of LIHEAP funds now in order to ensure that states have resources available to support their energy assistance programs as the weather turns colder.
"Each year LIHEAP helps more than five million low income households deal with energy costs," said Carmen Nazario, assistant secretary for children and families. "We will continue to work with states, tribes and territories to assure their heating assistance programs work effectively."
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Southern Company Teams Up With Industry Peers to Advance Electric Transportation Technologies
/PRNewswire/ -- Southern Company today joined electric utilities across the nation in an industry-wide initiative to advance electric transportation technologies. The initiative was developed to help ensure the necessary infrastructure is in place to support the full-scale commercialization and deployment of plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs).
"Southern Company is committed to helping make plug-in electric transportation in this country a reality," said David Ratcliffe, chairman, president and CEO of Southern Company. "The process to electrify our own fleet is underway and we will continue to deploy these technologies where appropriate."
Southern Company, the premier energy company serving the Southeast, is an enthusiastic supporter of electric/hybrid vehicles. Fleet organizations across the company's operating subsidiaries in Alabama, Florida, Georgia and Mississippi currently have 20 hybrids in operation, including five hybrid bucket trucks, which offer quieter operations, better fuel economy and reduced emissions. The company also plans to field test 11 plug-in hybrid electric Ford-550 Trouble Trucks in 2011.
In addition, Southern Company is hosting a 36-month plug-in hybrid electric vehicle demonstration in a partnership with Ford, the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), the U.S. Department of Energy and 10 other utilities to help develop a pre-production PEV. The company is also researching into the effect of increased PEV use on the electric grid.
The initiative, launched in conjunction with "The Business of Plugging In" - a conference in Detroit this week on the commercialization of PEVs sponsored by DTE Energy, General Motors, and the University of Michigan, highlights the industry's commitment to help accelerate the penetration of PEVs in the United States by focusing on the following five arenas:
-- Infrastructure - Utilities will help ensure there are no system
impacts from fueling large numbers of plug-in vehicles from the power
grid. They also will help develop comprehensive local charging
infrastructure plans.
-- Customer Support - Utilities will ensure that PEV customers receive
excellent customer care on questions ranging from charging mechanics
to rates.
-- Customer and Stakeholder Education - Utilities will collaborate with
state and local officials, automakers and other stakeholders to
provide comprehensive education outreach to customers on all aspects
of PEVs.
-- Vehicle and Infrastructure Incentives - Utilities will work closely
with federal, state and local stakeholders to encourage PEV
penetration, including purchase incentives, tax rebates, off-peak
charging rates and subsidized parking.
-- Utility fleets - Utilities will take significant steps to accelerate
the introduction of PEVs into their utility fleet operations.
In line with industry efforts to advance electric transportation technologies, Southern Company also will serve as the primary host company for the CALSTART 2009 Hybrid Truck Users Forum (HTUF) Oct. 27-29 in Atlanta. The HTUF national conference brings together leading truck manufacturers, suppliers and fleets focused on producing and using medium- and heavy-duty hybrid-electric, hybrid-hydraulic, plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles for commercial and military use.
In recognition of the growing importance of hybrid vehicles, Gov. Sonny Perdue has proclaimed the week of the conference "Hybrid Truck Week" in Georgia.
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"Southern Company is committed to helping make plug-in electric transportation in this country a reality," said David Ratcliffe, chairman, president and CEO of Southern Company. "The process to electrify our own fleet is underway and we will continue to deploy these technologies where appropriate."
Southern Company, the premier energy company serving the Southeast, is an enthusiastic supporter of electric/hybrid vehicles. Fleet organizations across the company's operating subsidiaries in Alabama, Florida, Georgia and Mississippi currently have 20 hybrids in operation, including five hybrid bucket trucks, which offer quieter operations, better fuel economy and reduced emissions. The company also plans to field test 11 plug-in hybrid electric Ford-550 Trouble Trucks in 2011.
In addition, Southern Company is hosting a 36-month plug-in hybrid electric vehicle demonstration in a partnership with Ford, the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), the U.S. Department of Energy and 10 other utilities to help develop a pre-production PEV. The company is also researching into the effect of increased PEV use on the electric grid.
The initiative, launched in conjunction with "The Business of Plugging In" - a conference in Detroit this week on the commercialization of PEVs sponsored by DTE Energy, General Motors, and the University of Michigan, highlights the industry's commitment to help accelerate the penetration of PEVs in the United States by focusing on the following five arenas:
-- Infrastructure - Utilities will help ensure there are no system
impacts from fueling large numbers of plug-in vehicles from the power
grid. They also will help develop comprehensive local charging
infrastructure plans.
-- Customer Support - Utilities will ensure that PEV customers receive
excellent customer care on questions ranging from charging mechanics
to rates.
-- Customer and Stakeholder Education - Utilities will collaborate with
state and local officials, automakers and other stakeholders to
provide comprehensive education outreach to customers on all aspects
of PEVs.
-- Vehicle and Infrastructure Incentives - Utilities will work closely
with federal, state and local stakeholders to encourage PEV
penetration, including purchase incentives, tax rebates, off-peak
charging rates and subsidized parking.
-- Utility fleets - Utilities will take significant steps to accelerate
the introduction of PEVs into their utility fleet operations.
In line with industry efforts to advance electric transportation technologies, Southern Company also will serve as the primary host company for the CALSTART 2009 Hybrid Truck Users Forum (HTUF) Oct. 27-29 in Atlanta. The HTUF national conference brings together leading truck manufacturers, suppliers and fleets focused on producing and using medium- and heavy-duty hybrid-electric, hybrid-hydraulic, plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles for commercial and military use.
In recognition of the growing importance of hybrid vehicles, Gov. Sonny Perdue has proclaimed the week of the conference "Hybrid Truck Week" in Georgia.
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Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Georgia Transmission Corp. Completes Thomson-to-Warthen 500-kV Transmission Line
(BUSINESS WIRE)--Georgia Transmission Corp. today announced the completion of a 39-mile 500-kilovolt (kV) transmission power line connecting substations in Thomson, Ga. and Warthen, Ga. The line marks the company’s first project of its size in two decades, its first of many new lines in a major upgrade of the state’s power grid and a new design for 500-kV power lines.
Georgia Transmission, a not-for-profit cooperative that builds and maintains high-voltage infrastructure on behalf of 39 of the state’s 42 Electric Membership Cooperatives (EMCs), began planning for the $48 million project in late 2004. The 500-kV line, to be energized in the summer of 2010, is the largest type of power line built in Georgia. Georgia’s electric co-ops are not-for-profit utilities that provide power to more than four million Georgians.
“Georgia’s energy demand has nearly doubled since 1990 due to growth in population and per-capita energy use,” said John Raese, Georgia Transmission’s vice president of project services. “By fortifying the power grid, Georgia’s utilities are protecting all Georgians from increased outages and a greater risk of blackouts.”
Twenty meetings with the public and key stakeholders were held prior to final route selection. Irby Construction handled the construction, which began in early 2008 and added nearly $1 million to the local economy. Georgia Transmission will pay the counties through which the line passes more than $300,000 in property taxes in 2010.
“We are particularly proud that we delivered this project early and under budget,” said Jeannine Rispin Haynes, Georgia Transmission’s senior public relations representative. “The local communities’ input and cooperation was crucial to completing the project on time so EMCs can continue to provide affordable, reliable power to their members.”
The transmission line totals 38.7 miles, stretching through portions of Glascock (12.9 mi.), McDuffie (11.6 mi.), Warren (3.6 mi.) and Washington (10.6 mi.) counties. More than 366 miles of wires span across 158 latticed steel structures that average 140 feet in height. The transmission line right-of-way is 150 feet wide, encompassing 704 acres of land at a cost of more than $4 million.
The project is the first to use a new Delta Cat design that has a narrower footprint and better access for maintenance than the industry’s current horizontal and delta designs. Developed in cooperation with Georgia Power and Southern Company, Georgia Transmission’s design also has improved shields to guard against outages from bird contamination. It will be used on four other 500-kV lines the companies are planning and building in northern and central Georgia.
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Georgia Transmission, a not-for-profit cooperative that builds and maintains high-voltage infrastructure on behalf of 39 of the state’s 42 Electric Membership Cooperatives (EMCs), began planning for the $48 million project in late 2004. The 500-kV line, to be energized in the summer of 2010, is the largest type of power line built in Georgia. Georgia’s electric co-ops are not-for-profit utilities that provide power to more than four million Georgians.
“Georgia’s energy demand has nearly doubled since 1990 due to growth in population and per-capita energy use,” said John Raese, Georgia Transmission’s vice president of project services. “By fortifying the power grid, Georgia’s utilities are protecting all Georgians from increased outages and a greater risk of blackouts.”
Twenty meetings with the public and key stakeholders were held prior to final route selection. Irby Construction handled the construction, which began in early 2008 and added nearly $1 million to the local economy. Georgia Transmission will pay the counties through which the line passes more than $300,000 in property taxes in 2010.
“We are particularly proud that we delivered this project early and under budget,” said Jeannine Rispin Haynes, Georgia Transmission’s senior public relations representative. “The local communities’ input and cooperation was crucial to completing the project on time so EMCs can continue to provide affordable, reliable power to their members.”
The transmission line totals 38.7 miles, stretching through portions of Glascock (12.9 mi.), McDuffie (11.6 mi.), Warren (3.6 mi.) and Washington (10.6 mi.) counties. More than 366 miles of wires span across 158 latticed steel structures that average 140 feet in height. The transmission line right-of-way is 150 feet wide, encompassing 704 acres of land at a cost of more than $4 million.
The project is the first to use a new Delta Cat design that has a narrower footprint and better access for maintenance than the industry’s current horizontal and delta designs. Developed in cooperation with Georgia Power and Southern Company, Georgia Transmission’s design also has improved shields to guard against outages from bird contamination. It will be used on four other 500-kV lines the companies are planning and building in northern and central Georgia.
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Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Aluminum Use in Electric Vehicles will Reduce High Cost of Battery Power for Plug-Ins and Hybrids, New Study Confirms
/PRNewswire/ -- Opting for high-strength, low-weight aluminum over heavier steel structures for plug-in electric and hybrid vehicles can cut vehicle price overall by reducing the battery energy requirements and the associated costs, according to a new study released today at the Center for Automotive Research's (CAR) Business of Plugging In conference. The study was jointly conducted by The Aluminum Association, Inc. with Ricardo, a leading technical research and strategic consultancy to the world's automotive, transport and energy industries.
Michael Bull, Director of Automotive Technology for Novelis, Inc., represented the Aluminum Association at the conference and participated in a panel discussion on future automotive changes associated with all electric vehicles.
"As automakers gear up for a new generation of plug-in electric vehicles, the high cost of battery power remains a barrier," said Bull. "What this new report shows is that by upgrading from traditional steel to an advanced aluminum body structure, the vehicle's stored energy requirements can be cut by about 10 percent, which could save up to $3,000 per vehicle since less power and energy is required to move the lighter vehicle."
"Plug-in and hybrid electric cars contain precious little, and quite expensive, 'fuel' in the form of batteries," added Bull. "Therefore, every effort must be made to utilize this stored energy to the highest possible efficiency. The solution lies in lowering the vehicle's weight with aluminum as part of a holistic approach to also include advanced powertrains and batteries, enhanced thermal management, improved aerodynamics, and reduced rolling resistance."
Highlights from the Ricardo electric vehicle study, for the federal test procedure (FTP75) drive cycle, include:
-- The driving range of the vehicles could be improved approximately
equal to the mass saved. Reduce the mass of the vehicle 20 percent,
go 20 percent father. One example vehicle had the range extended from
80 to 97 miles.
-- The heaviest vehicle in the study, at 1,822 kg, consumed about 300
Wh/mi, while the lightest at 627 kg consumed about 146 Wh/mi.
-- Regenerative braking could recover about 65 percent of the energy
associated with the vehicle's momentum irrespective of the vehicle
weight. But this is only about 15-20 percent of the total energy
expended.
-- For the lightest vehicle, about 44 percent of the energy is lost to
powertrain inefficiencies, with 33 percent of the energy used to
overcome air resistance, and only 24 percent is used to move the
vehicle.
-- As with conventional vehicles, the lighter vehicles have faster
accelerations.
The purpose of the Ricardo study was to evaluate the impact of vehicle weight reductions on electric vehicle performance, range and battery size. The majority of the vehicle simulations were done using the FTP75 drive cycle with a few highway drive cycles. In general, the relationships between vehicle mass, battery weight and energy, and range are linear up to the maximum range studied of 80 miles. At this range, the battery weight doesn't grow enough to start a significant "weight spiral."
The study also examined the role of vehicle mass on regenerative braking; specifically the question of whether strong regenerative braking might lessen the impact of weight reduction. This turns out not to be the case. All vehicles studied could recoup about 65 percent of energy associated with moving the vehicle. But the energy balance for each vehicle changes. As the vehicle gets lighter, less energy is required to move it, while the aerodynamic losses remain constant. For the lightest vehicle the aerodynamic losses are higher than the energy to accelerate the vehicle.
Real world designs support the fact that lightweight structures are a significant enabler for these vehicle types. Examples include Tesla Motors's Roadster, or upcoming midsized platform, Fisker Automotive's luxury vehicle and Bright Automotive's van. All are all using lightweight aluminum platforms for their vehicles.
"Many of the current hybrid vehicles are progressively adding lower weight components to improve the overall vehicle performance. When it comes to making electric vehicles more affordable and efficient, aluminum is proven to get you there with no compromises," said Bull.
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Michael Bull, Director of Automotive Technology for Novelis, Inc., represented the Aluminum Association at the conference and participated in a panel discussion on future automotive changes associated with all electric vehicles.
"As automakers gear up for a new generation of plug-in electric vehicles, the high cost of battery power remains a barrier," said Bull. "What this new report shows is that by upgrading from traditional steel to an advanced aluminum body structure, the vehicle's stored energy requirements can be cut by about 10 percent, which could save up to $3,000 per vehicle since less power and energy is required to move the lighter vehicle."
"Plug-in and hybrid electric cars contain precious little, and quite expensive, 'fuel' in the form of batteries," added Bull. "Therefore, every effort must be made to utilize this stored energy to the highest possible efficiency. The solution lies in lowering the vehicle's weight with aluminum as part of a holistic approach to also include advanced powertrains and batteries, enhanced thermal management, improved aerodynamics, and reduced rolling resistance."
Highlights from the Ricardo electric vehicle study, for the federal test procedure (FTP75) drive cycle, include:
-- The driving range of the vehicles could be improved approximately
equal to the mass saved. Reduce the mass of the vehicle 20 percent,
go 20 percent father. One example vehicle had the range extended from
80 to 97 miles.
-- The heaviest vehicle in the study, at 1,822 kg, consumed about 300
Wh/mi, while the lightest at 627 kg consumed about 146 Wh/mi.
-- Regenerative braking could recover about 65 percent of the energy
associated with the vehicle's momentum irrespective of the vehicle
weight. But this is only about 15-20 percent of the total energy
expended.
-- For the lightest vehicle, about 44 percent of the energy is lost to
powertrain inefficiencies, with 33 percent of the energy used to
overcome air resistance, and only 24 percent is used to move the
vehicle.
-- As with conventional vehicles, the lighter vehicles have faster
accelerations.
The purpose of the Ricardo study was to evaluate the impact of vehicle weight reductions on electric vehicle performance, range and battery size. The majority of the vehicle simulations were done using the FTP75 drive cycle with a few highway drive cycles. In general, the relationships between vehicle mass, battery weight and energy, and range are linear up to the maximum range studied of 80 miles. At this range, the battery weight doesn't grow enough to start a significant "weight spiral."
The study also examined the role of vehicle mass on regenerative braking; specifically the question of whether strong regenerative braking might lessen the impact of weight reduction. This turns out not to be the case. All vehicles studied could recoup about 65 percent of energy associated with moving the vehicle. But the energy balance for each vehicle changes. As the vehicle gets lighter, less energy is required to move it, while the aerodynamic losses remain constant. For the lightest vehicle the aerodynamic losses are higher than the energy to accelerate the vehicle.
Real world designs support the fact that lightweight structures are a significant enabler for these vehicle types. Examples include Tesla Motors's Roadster, or upcoming midsized platform, Fisker Automotive's luxury vehicle and Bright Automotive's van. All are all using lightweight aluminum platforms for their vehicles.
"Many of the current hybrid vehicles are progressively adding lower weight components to improve the overall vehicle performance. When it comes to making electric vehicles more affordable and efficient, aluminum is proven to get you there with no compromises," said Bull.
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Thursday, October 15, 2009
Climate Change Bill Needs State Roles, Says Emory's Buzbee
The Boxer-Kerry bill on climate change now making its way through Congress moves in the right direction, says environmental law expert William Buzbee, but some critical improvements are needed to make the legislation effective.
Buzbee's analysis of the bill, one of a series from the Center for Progressive Reform (CPR) by their member scholars, appears on the CPRBlog.
One unintended consequence of the bill's many implementation steps and corrective mechanisms, writes Buzbee, "is an avalanche of obligations." A big question, he says, is whether this "will lead to implementation delays."
A big risk in Boxer-Kerry, says Buzbee, "is that the federal law could prove too lax, but that the federal legislative and regulatory venues would be gridlocked and hence unable to set new, lower emissions caps or take other actions to lower emissions levels."
If that happens, he writes, "states might once again want to reassume the climate change leadership role they exhibited over the past decade and take actions to reduce emissions."
The bill does have provisions to preserve states' ability to require lower emissions than federally mandated, and provisions to prevent polluters from "simply turning and selling emission allowances or credits outside the jurisdiction."
Boxer-Kerry also retains the power of the federal EPA "to take action to supplement a cap-and-trade scheme if that proves necessary," writes Buzbee. "In reality, the mere threat of such supplemental action could nudge polluters into supporting implementation of the cap-and-trade regime."
Yet the bill is less than clear on whether "state supplemental roles are meant to be preserved under all the bill's provisions," writes Buzbee. A second important but missing element "is a citizen suit provision authorizing citizens to sue regulators, polluters, or other players in the cap-and-trade market for violations of the law."
With a law this complicated, writes Buzbee, "a multiplicity of enforcers is needed."
He concludes that "retention of state roles in combating climate change and adding a citizen suit provision" are near necessities "if a cap-and-trade market is to become a well policed reality."
Buzbee is professor of law and director of the Environmental and Natural Resources Law Program at Emory Law School. He is also a director of Emory’s new Center on Federalism and Intersystemic Governance.
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Buzbee's analysis of the bill, one of a series from the Center for Progressive Reform (CPR) by their member scholars, appears on the CPRBlog.
One unintended consequence of the bill's many implementation steps and corrective mechanisms, writes Buzbee, "is an avalanche of obligations." A big question, he says, is whether this "will lead to implementation delays."
A big risk in Boxer-Kerry, says Buzbee, "is that the federal law could prove too lax, but that the federal legislative and regulatory venues would be gridlocked and hence unable to set new, lower emissions caps or take other actions to lower emissions levels."
If that happens, he writes, "states might once again want to reassume the climate change leadership role they exhibited over the past decade and take actions to reduce emissions."
The bill does have provisions to preserve states' ability to require lower emissions than federally mandated, and provisions to prevent polluters from "simply turning and selling emission allowances or credits outside the jurisdiction."
Boxer-Kerry also retains the power of the federal EPA "to take action to supplement a cap-and-trade scheme if that proves necessary," writes Buzbee. "In reality, the mere threat of such supplemental action could nudge polluters into supporting implementation of the cap-and-trade regime."
Yet the bill is less than clear on whether "state supplemental roles are meant to be preserved under all the bill's provisions," writes Buzbee. A second important but missing element "is a citizen suit provision authorizing citizens to sue regulators, polluters, or other players in the cap-and-trade market for violations of the law."
With a law this complicated, writes Buzbee, "a multiplicity of enforcers is needed."
He concludes that "retention of state roles in combating climate change and adding a citizen suit provision" are near necessities "if a cap-and-trade market is to become a well policed reality."
Buzbee is professor of law and director of the Environmental and Natural Resources Law Program at Emory Law School. He is also a director of Emory’s new Center on Federalism and Intersystemic Governance.
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