Vaisala has released the new WTS Wind Management System that has been specifically engineered for wind resource assessment, power curve measurement and monitoring of wind farms. The system was designed to help wind farm managers better understand and manage the impact of weather on operations. Vaisala wind sensors can be found at the National Weather Service’s Automated Surface Observing System …
California Fuels Report Released
A new report, “Projected Outlook for Next Generation and Alternative Transportation Fuels in California 2010-2030,” has been released. The report concludes that with current investments and advances in alternative fuels over the past several years should lead to a significant displacement of petroleum-based fuels like diesel and gasoline. The report was released by Fueling California and Orange County Business Council …
Federal Fleet to Use Alternative Fuels
President Obama wants the federal fleet of more than 600,000 vehicles to use alternative fuels by 2015. The goal of the Presidential Memorandum issued today implementing new Federal fleet management practices is “to cut oil imports by one-third by 2025 and to put one million advanced vehicles on the road by 2015.” By December 31, 2015, all new light duty …
Sales of 85 Percent Ethanol Up in Iowa
Iowa drivers are buying 85 percent ethanol for their flex fuel vehicles. According to the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA), E85 sales in Iowa increased by 27 percent during the first quarter of 2011 compared to the fourth quarter of 2010. The Iowa Department of Revenue reports that sales of E85 by Iowa retailers reached 2,645,038 gallons during the first …
Biodiesel Board Webinar on Food, Fuel and Land Use
Experts on a National Biodiesel Board webinar Tuesday explained how biofuels production can lead to more efficient and environmentally friendly energy future and help feed the world’s poor. The on-line event drew more than 100 participants, including government regulators, military personnel, scientists and students. The event was promoted among college students as part of the Next Generation Scientists for Biodiesel …
Nissan Installs 30 Solar EV Chargers at TN Plant
International car manufacturer Nissan North America has begun the installation of 30 solar charging stations at its Smyrna Vehicle Assembly Plant in Franklin, Tennessee. This project is one of dozens that Nissan has invested in the state totaling more than $3.5 billion over 30 years. The solar chargers are designed to charge the Nissan LEAF, an all electric vehicle (EV) …
UPS Begins Using Biodiesel at U.S. Hub
UPS is now using biodiesel blends at its Louisville, Kentucky hub. The company recently installed a biodiesel fuel tank and fueling station at its Worldport facility. This will enable fuel operators to blend specific percentages of biodiesel starting from a B5 blend (5% biodiesel, 95% diesel) up to B20. Biodiesel blends of up to B20 can be used in any …
Quantum Awarded $1.37M PHEV Grant
Quantum Fuel System Technologies Worldwide has been awarded a $1.37 million grant by the California Energy Commission (CEC) for launching a new generation of plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) systems. The goal of the program is to develop technology that will accelerate the adoption of PHEVs by way of improved operational efficiencies and reduced cost. The monies will be used for …
BIOfuel From Algae Technologies Project Launched
A new international project is kicking off to produce biofuels from algae. The BIOfuel From Algae Technologies (BIOFAT) project is supported by nine partners based in seven countries and the goal is to show that ethanol, biodiesel and bioproducts call all be produced at large scale from algae. Algae supporters believe algal biofuels can be produced in an efficient, economic …
Ag Secretary Promotes 85 Percent Ethanol
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack was in Nashville, Tennessee Monday visiting Thorntons Convenience Store E-85 fueling station to highlight the importance of moving toward a clean energy economy and decreasing the nation’s dependence on foreign oil. “Flex-fuel pumps give Americans a choice to purchase domestically produced renewable transportation fuels,” Vilsack said. “The Obama Administration is working to transform the United States …