Energy

Rural Clean Energy Superhighways Act

United States · United States Congress · 1 November 2007

Rural Clean Energy Superhighways Act - Amends the Federal Power Act to direct the President to designate an area as a National Renewable Energy Zone if it meets specified prerequisites. Requires the President, after such designation, to identify, and provide public notice of, additional renewable energy trunkline facilities and network upgrades required to increase substantially the generation of electricity from renewable energy within each Zone. Directs the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to promulgate regulations to ensure that a public utility that finances transmission capacity to transmit electricity from renewable energy from a Zone to an electricity consuming area recovers through transmission service rates all prudently incurred costs and a reasonable return on equity associated with construction and operation of the new transmission capacity. Directs FERC, in specified circumstances, to permit a renewable energy trunkline built by a public utility located in a Zone to be initially funded through transmission charges imposed upon: (1) all the utility's transmission customers in advance of significant generation interconnection requests; or (2) all the transmission customers of a Regional Transmission Organization (RTO) or independent system operator, if the trunkline is built in an area served by one or the other. Prescribes cost allocation procedures for new projects and network upgrades. Requires a Federal Transmitting Utility (a Federal Power Marketing Administration, including the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), that owns or operates electric transmission facilities) to finance a network upgrade or a renewable energy trunkline facility, if within a certain time frame no privately or publicly funded entity commits to do so. Authorizes the deposit of specified funds in a Transmission Fund in the Treasury for expenditure by the Secretary of Energy in financing network upgrades or trunkline facilities. Requires the Federal Power Marketing Administrations and TVA to: (1) promote energy conservation and renewable energy electric resource development; and (2) identify opportunities for promoting development of facilities generating electricity from renewable energy on Indian lands. Authorizes each such entity to acquire, on behalf of the U.S. government, electricity from renewable energy and renewable energy credits.

Federal Accountability for Nuclear Waste Storage Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 1 November 2007

Federal Accountability for Nuclear Waste Storage Act of 2007 - Amends the Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982 to require commercial nuclear power plant operators to transfer, within six years after enactment of this Act, spent nuclear fuel from spent nuclear fuel pools into spent nuclear fuel dry casks at an independent spent fuel storage facility generally licensed by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) and located at the power reactor site. Directs the Secretary of Energy to: (1) make grants to compensate a contractor for expenses incurred in carrying out such transfer; and (2) accept conveyance of title to a spent nuclear fuel dry cask (including its contents) from the contractor following certification of compliance by the NRC. States that conveyance of title confers upon the Secretary full responsibility for the possession, stewardship, maintenance, monitoring, and ultimate disposition of all transferred spent nuclear fuel. Authorizes the Secretary to contract with the holder of an NRC operating license for power reactors located on or adjacent to the spent nuclear fuel dry cask for the performance of such tasks.

Commending the National Renewable Energy Laboratory for its work of promoting energy efficiency for 30.

United States · United States Congress · 1 November 2007

Commends the National Renewable Energy Laboratory for its work of promoting energy efficiency for 30 years and seeking other avenues of energy independence. Recognizes the achievements of the scientists and employees of the NREL and their exemplary service to the United States.

RENEWABLE ENERGY AND THE GLOBAL ENVIRONMENT

United States · United States House of Representatives · 30 October 2007

Healthy Air and Clean Water Act

United States · United States Congress · 29 October 2007

Healthy Air and Clean Water Act - Amends the Clean Air Act to provide that affected units (coal-fired electric generating facilities that have a nameplate capacity greater than 25 megawatts and that generate electricity for sale) that commence operation after December 31, 2008, shall be considered new units. Prohibits such units from exceeding the mercury emission limit of 0.6 pounds mercury per trillion Btu. Prohibits affected units that commence operation on or before December 31, 2008, from exceeding such limit by January 1, 2011. Sets forth penalties for excess emissions. Requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to ensure that mercury captured or recovered by emission controls installed at affected units is not re-released into the environment. Sets carbon dioxide emission limits for affected units for 2015, 2020, 2030, 2040, and 2050. Requires the Administrator to establish a carbon dioxide allowance trading program. Declares that nothing in this Act affects the ability of states to take actions to further limit climate change. Directs the Administrator to promulgate regulations to protect specified sensitive ecosystems if the emissions reductions under title VII of the Clean Air Act are not sufficient to ensure the protection and restoration of such ecosystems. Requires the Administrator to promulgate regulations to reduce, not later than January 1, 2010, specified amounts of aggregate sulfur dioxide emissions and nitrogen oxide emissions from power plants. Authorizes the regulations to include market-oriented mechanisms. Requires the Administrator to coordinate with federal and state governments to increase energy efficiency, to increase the use of renewable energy, and to implement cost saving advanced demand and supply side policies. Requires a power plant, on the later of the date that is 30 years after it commenced operation or the date that is five years after this Act's enactment, to comply with the specified new source performance standards and specified requirements applicable to modified sources under the Clean Air Act.

LEAPP Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 25 October 2007

Lead Elimination, Abatement, and Poisoning Prevention Act of 2007 or the LEAPP Act of 2007 - Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to carry out demonstration projects and outreach programs for the identification and abatement of lead hazards. Requires the Secretary, in conjunction with the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, to establish the Joint Task Force on Lead-Based Hazards. Requires the President, in conjunction with the Administrator, to establish the Task Force on Children's Environmental Health and Safety. Requires the Secretary to conduct outreach and education activities about lead exposure. Requires the Secretary, in conjunction with the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, to undertake pilot projects in states to provide lead poisoning risk assessments, blood-lead level screening, interventions to reduce exposure to lead-based hazards, and medically appropriate treatment to pregnant women enrolled in the Medicaid program under title XIX of the Social Security Act. Amends the Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act of 1992 to require a seller or lessor of housing to: (1) conduct a risk assessment or inspection for the presence of lead-based paint hazards (current law permits the purchaser a 10-day period to conduct such assessment or inspection unless the parties mutually agree on a different period); (2) disclose to the purchaser or lessee the results of such inspection or assessment and hazard control measures carried out; (3) remediate any lead-based paint hazards found; and (4) include in any contract for the purchase or lease of housing documentation of any inspection, risk assessment, or hazard control measure. Includes within the meaning of the term "target housing" housing for the elderly or persons with disabilities or any zero bedroom dwelling. Redefines the term "qualified allocation plan" for purposes of the low-income housing tax credit. Directs the Department of Energy (DOE) to require the conduct of lead hazard control measures during weatherization projects. Authorizes appropriations for HUD's Lead Hazard Reduction Program.

Heartland, Habitat, Harvest, and Horticulture Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 25 October 2007

Heartland, Habitat, Harvest, and Horticulture Act of 2007 - Amends the Trade Act of 1974 to establish a program of supplemental agricultural disaster assistance and an Agricultural Disaster Relief Trust Fund to make payments to farmers and ranchers for certain losses incurred in disaster areas. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) allow tax credits for various conservation-related expenditures, including habitat protection easements and restoration, wetlands reserve conservation, and working grassland protection: (2) make permanent the special rule for tax deductions of capital gain real property for conservation purposes; and (3) allow a tax deduction for expenditures related to certain species recovery plans approved under the Endangered Species Act of 1973. Provides for the issuance of tax-exempt forest conservation bonds to nonprofit organizations to acquire forest lands for conservation purposes. Allows a tax deduction for up to 60% of gains from certain sales or exchanges of timber. Sets forth rules for the tax treatment of timber real estate investment trusts (REITs). Allows new tax credits for qualified small wind energy property expenditures for residential heating purposes, for the production of cellulosic biomass alcohol used as fuel, and for fossil free alcohol. Extends through 2012 the small ethanol and small agri-biodiesel producer tax credits. Extends tariff duties on ethanol until January 1, 2011. Extends through 2010: (1) the tax credit for biodiesel and renewable diesel used as fuel; (2) the tax credit for alternative fuel vehicle refueling property expenditures; and (3) the alternative fuel and alternative fuel mixture excise tax credit and refund provisions. Increases the maximum loan limit on small issue agricultural bonds for first-time farmers. Allows new tax credits for holders of rural renaissance bonds, for agricultural chemical and pesticide security, for safety and effectiveness testing expenses for new animal drugs intended for use in a minor species, and for the purchase of qualified energy efficient motors that meet or exceed certain energy efficiency standards. Places limits on the deductibility of farming losses for taxpayers receiving agriculture program payments or loans from the Commodity Credit Corporation. Limits the deductibility of fines and penalties paid to a governmental entity for violations of law. Increases penalties for failure to file certain informational tax returns. Sets forth rules for the application of the economic substance doctrine to transactions affecting tax liability. Imposes penalties for underpayments of tax attributable to transactions lacking economic substance.

Farm, Ranch, Equity, Stewardship, and Health Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 24 October 2007

Farm, Ranch, Equity, Stewardship, and Health Act of 2007 - Amends the federal crop insurance program. Establishes: (1) a risk management account contract program; (2) a conservation planning pilot program; (3) a nutrient reduction and sediment control pilot program for the Chesapeake Bay watershed; (4) a national clean plant network; (5) an Office of Pest Management Policy; and (6) a program of hunger-free community collaborative and infrastructure grants. Extends and revises specified programs for: (1) commodity assistance; (2) conservation; (3) specialty crops; (4) food programs and nutrition, (5) agricultural trade; (6) rural development; (7) forestry; and (8) energy, including biobased products. Food Employment Empowerment and Development Program Act of 2007 or FEED Act of 2007 - Establishes the food employment empowerment and development program to provide grants to eligible entities to use community resources to combat hunger and the root causes of hunger by creating opportunity through food recovery and job training. Expresses the sense of Congress that any budgetary savings created by this Act should be used to reduce the federal budget deficit and not be used to offset other federal spending.

Nuclear Release Notice Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 24 October 2007

Nuclear Release Notice Act of 2007 - Amends the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 to direct the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to promulgate regulations that require civilian nuclear power facility licensees to notify the NRC and affected state and county governments within 24 hours of any release of fission products or other radioactive substances: (1) which exceeds allowable limits for normal operation; or (2) enters into the environment and may cause drinking water sources to exceed a maximum contaminant level established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Requires the NRC, in developing such regulations, also to consider requiring notice to state and county governments if an unplanned release reaches the environment by a path otherwise not allowed or recognized by the facility's operating license, even though the release falls within allowable limits.

Clean Energy Partnership Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 23 October 2007

Clean Energy Partnership Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of Energy to provide grants to local educational agencies covering up to 50% of their costs in implementing clean energy projects that include measures to conserve energy and equip school buildings for renewable power sources.

Safety for Americans from Nuclear Weapons Testing Act

United States · United States Congress · 19 October 2007

Safety for Americans from Nuclear Weapons Testing Act - Deems the resumption of underground nuclear testing at the Nevada Test Site or the use of any other location for such testing to be a major federal action significantly affecting the quality of the human environment for which a separate environmental impact statement is required under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969. Outlines information required to be included in such statement, including: (1) the possibility of radiation containment failure and the effects of such failure; (2) possible long-term effects on the water table from underground radiation leakage; and (3) information with respect to categories of weapons subject to testing. Prohibits the United States from resuming any such testing unless authorized by a law enacted after the enactment of this Act. Requires: (1) advance (seven days) public notice of each test; (2) prompt notice of each release of radiation resulting from a test; and (3) a study by the National Academy of Sciences on the safety and health of citizens in the vicinity of the Site. Establishes a Nevada Test Site Citizens Review Board to address environmental, health, and safety issues related to nuclear testing at the Site. Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to make grants to institutions of higher education to acquire and operate for ten years radiation detection equipment and sensors. Directs the Secretary of Energy, through the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), to monitor any radiation released into the atmosphere as a result of such testing. Requires: (1) DOE radiation containment assessment; and (2) public notice of monitoring data. Requires the: (1) Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to make a grant to establish the National Center for the Study of Radiation and Human Health; and (2) Secretary of Health and Human Services to conduct a study of individuals exposed to nuclear weapons tests.

ENERGY AND GLOBAL WARMING SOLUTIONS FOR VULNERABLE COMMUNITIES

United States · United States House of Representatives · 18 October 2007

Uranium Enrichment Decontamination and Decommissioning Fund Reauthorization Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 18 October 2007

Uranium Enrichment Decontamination and Decommissioning Fund Reauthorization Act of 2007 - Amends the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 to reauthorize, and increase the maximum mandatory amounts in, the Uranium Enrichment Decontamination and Decommissioning Fund. Directs the Secretary of Energy to study and report to the appropriate congressional committees on the manner in which proceeds from the sale of the product of the enrichment of uranium tailings may be used to reduce or supplement the amount of appropriations necessary to: (1) fund the Fund; and (2) provide assistance to local governments and community reuse organizations at sites eligible for assistance from the Fund.

Lieberman-Warner Climate Security Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 18 October 2007

America's Climate Security Act of 2007 - Requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish: (1) a greenhouse gas (GHG) registry; and (2) a GHG emission allowance transfer system for covered facilities, including specified facilities within the electric power and industrial sectors and facilities that produce or entities that import petroleum- or coal- based transportation fuel or chemicals. Sets forth emission allowances for 2012-2050, with a declining cap on GHGs. Provides for selling, exchanging, transferring, submitting, retiring, or borrowing emission allowances. Establishes: (1) a domestic offset program to sequester GHGs in agriculture and forests; and (2) the Bonus Allowance Account. Establishes the Carbon Market Efficiency Board, which shall observe and report on the national GHG emission market and provide cost relief measures if it determines that the market poses significant harm to the U.S. economy. Provides for the distribution of emission allowances, including initially giving allowances to: (1) specified owners and operators of covered facilities; (2) states; (3) load-serving entities that deliver electricity to retail consumers; (4) the Secretary of Agriculture to reduce GHG emissions in the agriculture and forestry sectors; (5) international forest protection activities; and (6) the Emission Allowance Account for covered facilities in the electric power and industrial sectors. Establishes in the Treasury and provides for allocations from: (1) the Energy Assistance Fund; (2) the Climate Change Worker Training Fund; (3) the Adaptation Fund; and (4) the Climate Change and National Security Fund. Establishes the Climate Change Credit Corporation to auction emission allowances. Provides for the use of auction proceeds, including for a zero- or low-carbon energy technologies program, an advanced coal and sequestration technologies program, incentives for production of fuel from cellulosic biomass, and an advanced technology vehicles manufacturing incentive program. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to set forth provisions concerning appliance energy efficiency requirements and state building energy efficiency code updates. Requires the President to establish an interagency group to determine whether foreign countries have addressed GHGs. Directs the Administrator to establish an international reserve allowance program. Requires the proceeds from sales of such allowances to be used to mitigate the negative impacts of climate change on other countries' disadvantaged communities. Amends the Safe Drinking Water Act to require the Administrator to permit commercial-scale underground injection of carbon dioxide for purposes of geological sequestration. Requires the Secretary of Energy to study the feasibility of the construction of: (1) pipelines for the transportation of carbon dioxide for sequestration or enhanced oil recovery; and (2) geological carbon dioxide sequestration facilities. Directs the Administrator to establish a task force to study the cost implications of potential federal assumption of liability with respect to closed geological storage sites. Authorizes the President to waive this Act's requirements in a national security emergency. Requires the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to direct securities issuers to inform investors of material risks related to climate change.

FULL COMMITTEE HEARING ON SMALL BUSINESS ENERGY PRIORITIES

United States · United States House of Representatives · 17 October 2007

National Forests, Parks, Public Land, and Reclamation Projects Authorization Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 17 October 2007

National Forests, Parks, Public Land, and Reclamation Projects Authorization Act of 2007 - Authorizes specified programs and activities in the Department of the Interior, the Forest Service, and the Department of Energy concerning, among other things, land conveyances, boundary adjustments, studies, memorials, commissions, and museums, national park natural resource protection, national trails and rivers, national heritage areas, and advanced energy technology transfer centers. Makes amendments to various public laws, including the National Trails System Act, the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, the Energy Policy Act of 2005, and the Steel and Aluminum Energy Conservation and Technology Competitiveness Act of 1988.

Natural Resource Projects and Programs Authorization Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 17 October 2007

Natural Resource Projects and Programs Authorization Act of 2007 - Authorizes specified programs and activities in the Department of the Interior, the Forest Service, and the Department of Energy concerning, among other things, national monuments, conservation areas, resource protection, historic sites, national trails, national heritage areas, and the clean coal power initiative. Makes amendments to various public laws, including the Alaska Natural Gas Pipeline Act, the National Trails System Act, the Steel Industry American Heritage Area Act of 1996, the Omnibus Parks and Public Lands Management Act of 1996, the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, the Energy Policy Act of 2005, the Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor Act of 1988, the Quinebaug and Shetucket Rivers Valley National Heritage Corridor Act of 1994, the National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992, and the Compact of Free Association Amendments Act of 2003.

To authorize the National Science Foundation to accept and use contributed funds from the Department of Energy for certain activities related to the Energy for Sustainability program.

United States · United States Congress · 17 October 2007

Authorizes the National Science Foundation (NSF), in carrying out its Energy for Sustainability program, to accept and use funds contributed by the Department of Energy (DOE) from the Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy program, to support projects that enable related research and development activities within those programs. Requires the Director of the NSF to consult with the Assistant Secretary of Energy for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy when preparing solicitations for such projects.

Regarding ending World Bank disbursements to Iran until the International Atomic Energy Agency certifies the compliance of the Islamic Republic of Iran with Resolutions 1696 and 1747 of the United Nations Security Council and the terms of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.

United States · United States Congress · 16 October 2007

Urges the Board of Directors of the World Bank to request a policy review of current disbursements to the Islamic Republic of Iran and to end these disbursements until the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) certifies Iran's compliance with U.N. Security Council Resolutions 1696 and 1747 and the terms of the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty. Urges the Security Council to order the World Bank to end disbursements to Iran if the Board of Directors fails to take such action.

Energy Efficient Appliance Tax Credit for Refrigerators and Freezers Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 12 October 2007

Energy Efficient Appliance Tax Credit for Refrigerators and Freezers Act of 2007 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a tax credit for 25% of the cost (up to $500) of refrigerators or freezers which meet requirements for the Energy Star program. Terminates such credit after 2016.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES IN A LOW-CARBON ENERGY ECONOMY

United States · United States House of Representatives · 10 October 2007

Recognition of Forgotten Atomic Veterans and their Surviving Spouses Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 10 October 2007

Recognition of Forgotten Atomic Veterans and their Surviving Spouses Act of 2007 - Directs the Attorney General (AG) to: (1) obtain from files of the Operations Office of the Department of Energy in Nevada records showing the identity of all atomic veterans (those exposed to ionizing radiation or fallout from the atmospheric detonation of a nuclear device); (2) locate such veterans; and (3) advise them of the provisions of the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act, including the right to file a claim thereunder. Directs the AG, with respect to each identified veteran who is deceased, to locate and advise his or her surviving spouse of such Act and their right to file a claim. Directs the AG to assist each such veteran or surviving spouse in filing such a claim. Expands the number of diseases considered service-connected when appearing in radiation-exposed veterans.

Nuclear Gold Standard Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 10 October 2007

Nuclear Gold Standard Act of 2008 - Directs the Secretary of Energy, the Secretary of State, and the Secretary of Defense to develop a framework for a global alliance against nuclear terrorism that would incorporate the "gold standard" developed under this Act for the security of nuclear materials. Directs the Secretary of Energy to work with: (1) the Secretary's Russian counterpart to develop a formal set of verifiable and enforceable standards to which all U.S. and Russian nuclear materials shall be secured and against which inspectors can test ("gold standard"); and (2) the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to extend such standards to all other countries with nuclear materials. Directs the Secretary of Energy and the Secretary of State to: (1) separately and jointly, provide assistance to other countries to implement the measures required by U.N. Security Council Resolution 1540; and (2) jointly develop a set of incentives as part of such assistance. Authorizes, subject to specified conditions, appropriations for: (1) specified Department of Energy and Department of Defense (DOD) nuclear materials safety and weapons reduction programs; and (2) securing nuclear materials in Russia.

Renewable Energy Assistance Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 10 October 2007

Renewable Energy Assistance Act of 2007 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) eliminate the dollar limitation on the tax credit for residential energy efficiency property expenditures and extend such credit through 2016; (2) extend through 2016 the energy tax credit for solar energy and qualified fuel cell property; (3) allow public electric utility property to qualify for the energy tax credit; (4) extend through 2015 the tax credit for nonbusiness energy property; and (5) modify energy efficient appliance tax credit amounts for appliances (e.g., dishwashers, clothes washers, refrigerators, and dehumidifiers) produced after 2007.

Energy Storage Technology Advancement Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 9 October 2007

Energy Storage Technology Advancement Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of Energy to implement a research, development, and demonstration program for: (1) basic research to support development of energy storage systems for vehicles, stationary applications, and electricity transmission and distribution; (2) applied research on energy storage systems to support related technologies; (3) regionally diversified demonstrations of advanced energy storage systems; and (4) vehicle energy storage technology.

Industrial Energy Efficiency Research and Development Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 9 October 2007

Industrial Energy Efficiency Research and Development Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of Energy to establish a program, in cooperation with energy-intensive industries, representative industry trade associations, and institutions of higher education, to conduct research, development, demonstration, and commercial application activities with respect to new industrial and commercial processes, technologies, and methods to: (1) achieve improvements in energy efficiency and environmental performance; and (2) enhance the economic competitiveness of the U.S. industrial sector. Directs the Secretary to provide funding to university-based industrial research and assessment centers to: (1) identify opportunities for optimizing energy efficiency and environmental performance; (2) promote application of emerging concepts and technologies in small and medium-sized manufacturers; (3) promote the research and development for use of alternative energy sources for energy intensive industries; (4) coordinate with state research offices, and provide a clearinghouse for industrial process and energy efficiency technical assistance resources; and (5) coordinate with state-accredited technical training centers and community colleges, while ensuring appropriate services to all regions of the United States.

SECURE Water Act

United States · United States Congress · 4 October 2007

Science and Engineering to Comprehensively Understand and Responsibly Enhance Water Act or the SECURE Water Act - Directs the Secretary of the Interior (the Secretary), acting through the Commissioner of Reclamation, to establish a climate change adaptation program to: (1) assess each effect of, and risk resulting from, global climate change regarding the quantity of water resources located in specified areas (service areas); and (2) ensure that strategies are developed to address potential water shortages, conflicts, and other impacts to water users and the environment of each service area. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) provide grants to, or enter cooperative agreements with, eligible applicants to assist in planning, designing, or constructing improvements; and (2) enter into cooperative agreements with any university, nonprofit research institution, or organization with water or power delivery authority to fund research activities designed to conserve, increase efficiency of, or enhance management of, water resources. Directs: (1) the Secretary of Energy to assess each effect of, and risk resulting from, climate change regarding water supplies required for the generation of hydroelectric power at specified projects; and (2) the Secretary to establish and lead a climate change and water intragovernmental panel. Directs the Secretary, acting through the Director of the United States Geological Survey (USGS), to: (1) review the national streamflow information program, improve methodologies, and increase the number of sites measured; (2) develop a systematic groundwater monitoring program for each major U.S. aquifer system; (3) identify significant U.S. brackish groundwater resources; and (4) establish a water availability and use assessment program.

Carbon Dioxide Pipeline Study Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 4 October 2007

Carbon Dioxide Pipeline Study Act of 2007 - Requires the Secretary of Energy to study, and report the results to Congress on, the feasibility of the construction and operation of: (1) pipelines for the transportation of carbon dioxide for sequestration or enhanced oil recovery; and (2) carbon dioxide sequestration facilities.

Coal Fuels and Industrial Gasification Demonstration and Development Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 4 October 2007

Coal Fuels and Industrial Gasification Demonstration and Development Act of 2007 - Amends the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to instruct the Secretary of Energy to implement a grants program for obtaining or implementing services for the planning and permitting of certain eligible projects that produce liquid transportation fuels, industrial chemicals, or electricity. Requires the Secretary to make direct loans to eligible individuals and entities to implement such projects. Directs the Secretary to select eligible projects to receive loans through a reverse auction, giving priority to eligible projects with the greatest percentage reduction of lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions in comparison to facilities that use conventional feedstocks and do not use carbon capture and sequestration technologies. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to: (1) establish a methodology for determining the lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions of coal-derived liquid transportation fuels; (2) implement a research and demonstration program to evaluate the emissions of the use of coal-to-liquid fuel for transportation, including gasoline, diesel, marine, and jet fuel; and (3) evaluate the effect of using coal-to-liquid transportation fuel on vehicle emissions, including motor vehicles, nonroad vehicles, and aircraft. Directs the Secretary and the Secretary of Defense to study and report to specified congressional committees on the feasibility and suitability of maintaining coal-to-liquid products in the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR). Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide: (1) a business credit for sequestration of carbon dioxide captured within the United States; (2) a seven-year applicable recovery period for depreciation of qualified carbon dioxide pipeline property; (3) treatment of certain income and gains relating to industrial source carbon dioxide as qualifying income for publicly traded partnerships; and (4) extend and modify the alternative fuel credit.

International Clean Energy Technologies Deployment and Global Energy Markets Investment Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 4 October 2007

International Clean Energy Technologies Deployment and Global Energy Markets Investment Act of 2007 - Amends the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to set forth a program for clean energy assistance to developing countries. Instructs the Secretary of Energy to: (1) establish a pilot program of financial assistance for clean energy projects in developing countries that will result in reduced greenhouse gas emissions; and (2) make a loan or loan guarantee for not more than 50% of project costs for each pilot program participant. Includes in such pilot program projects for clean energy technologies, including clean coal, small or advanced nuclear, small or advanced hydropower, biofuels, renewable, and energy efficiency technologies. Directs the President to establish a Task Force on International Clean Energy Technologies Cooperation. Requires the Task Force to establish an Interagency Working Group on Clean Energy Technology Exports. Requires such Task Force to identify developing countries that represent the predominant share of energy use, and to submit to the President a strategy that includes: (1) adoption and deployment of clean energy technologies and strategies in developing countries; (2) expansion of clean energy technology markets and facilitation of clean energy technology exports to developing countries; (3) integration into U.S. foreign policy objectives of the promotion of clean energy technology deployment and reduced greenhouse gas emissions in developing countries, and clean energy technology exports; (4) a pilot program of financial assistance for qualifying projects; and (5) development of financial mechanisms and instruments that are cost-effective and facilitate private capital investment in such technologies.

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives concerning the United States-India nuclear cooperation agreement.

United States · United States Congress · 4 October 2007

Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the Administration should not: (1) propose any change to Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) guidelines relating to India until the Administration has answered questions raised by Congress regarding apparent inconsistencies between the nuclear cooperation agreement and the Henry J. Hyde United States-India Peaceful Atomic Energy Cooperation Act of 2006 (Hyde Act), and resolved with the government of India all differences of interpretation in the nuclear cooperation agreement; and (2) support a proposed exemption for India in the NSG guidelines that is not consistent with the Hyde Act and the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 and that does not incorporate specified provisions.

ENERGY STORAGE TECHNOLOGIES: STATE OF DEVELOPMENT FOR STATIONARY AND VEHICULAR APPLICATIONS

United States · United States House of Representatives · 3 October 2007

GEOTHERMAL ENERGY INITIATIVE

United States · United States Senate · 26 September 2007

SUBCOMMITTEE HEARING ON SMALL BUSINESS RENEWABLE ENERGY TAX INCENTIVE POSSIBILITIES

United States · United States House of Representatives · 26 September 2007

THE CONTRIBUTION OF THE SOCIAL SCIENCES TO THE ENERGY CHALLENGE

United States · United States House of Representatives · 25 September 2007

Energy Efficient Appliance Tax Credit for Air Conditioners Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2007

Energy Efficient Appliance Tax Credit for Air Conditioners Act of 2007 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a tax credit for 25% of the cost (up to $500) of air conditioners which meet requirements for the Energy Star program. Terminates such credit after 2016.

Higher Education Sustainability Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 24 September 2007

Higher Education Sustainability Act of 2007 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to direct the Secretary of Education to make grants to establish sustainability programs at institutions of higher education. Requires such programs to develop and implement: (1) sustainability practices, including in the areas of energy management, green building, waste management, purchasing, transportation, and toxics management; and (2) other aspects of sustainability that integrate campus operations with multidisciplinary educational programs and are applicable to the private and government sectors. Directs the Secretary to convene a summit of higher education experts, federal representatives, and business and industry leaders to encourage cooperative efforts to enhance sustainability programs at institutions of higher education and apply such programs to the community and workplace.

Clean Renewable Energy and Economic Development Act

United States · United States Congress · 20 September 2007

Clean Renewable Energy and Economic Development Act - Amends the Federal Power Act to require the President to designate as national renewable energy zones specified areas that have the potential to generate 1 gigawatt of electricity from renewable energy, a significant portion of which could be generated in a rural area or on federal land. Prohibits the President from including in such zones specified federal land that is subject to protective management policies that are inconsistent with energy development. Requires the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to promulgate regulations to ensure that: (1) specified public utility transmission providers that finance renewable electricity connection facilities in such zones recover incurred costs and a reasonable return on equity associated with the new transmission capacity; and (2) not less than 75% of the capacity of specified high-voltage transmission facilities and lines is used for electricity from renewable energy. Sets forth provisions concerning: (1) the financing of a renewable energy trunkline and renewable electricity connection facilities; (2) the identification of renewable electricity connection facilities that are required to substantially increase the generation of electricity from renewable energy; and (3) the promotion of energy conservation and renewable energy electric resource development by federal transmitting utilities. Requires the Bonneville Power Administration and the Western Area Power Administration to establish: (1) a program focusing on improving the integration of wind energy into their transmission grids; and (2) a joint program focusing on the development and integration of geothermal energy resources into their grids, as well as non-grid, distributed applications in their service territories. Requires the Federal Power Administrations and the Tennessee Valley Authority to establish a program focusing on integrating solar energy into their grids and into remote and distributed applications in their service territories. Requires the federal transmitting utilities to undertake geographically diverse projects within their respective service territories to acquire and demonstrate electric and hybrid vehicles and related technologies as part of their fleets of vehicles. Requires such programs to develop technology and devices to use electricity from renewable energy sources as the main fuel source for vehicles.

A bill to require updating of State building energy efficiency codes and standards.

United States · United States Congress · 20 September 2007

Requires the Secretary of Energy to facilitate the updating of national model building energy codes and standards at least every three years to achieve overall energy savings, compared to the 2006 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) for residential buildings and ASHRAE/IES Standard 90.1 for commercial buildings, of at least 30% by 2015 and 50% by 2022. Requires the Secretary, if the 2022 target cannot be achieved using existing technology or would not be lifecycle effective, to establish a revised target that ensures the maximum level of energy efficiency in buildings that is technologically feasible and lifecycle cost effective. Requires the Secretary: (1) to determine if a revision to the IECC or ASHRAE/IES Standard 90.1 will improve energy efficiency in buildings and meet such energy savings targets; and (2) if a code or standard does not meet the targets or if a code or standard is not updated for more than three years, to amend the IECC or ASHRAE/IES Standard 90.1 to establish a modified code or standard that meets the targets. Requires the Secretary to provide notice and an opportunity to comment on the targets, determinations, and modified codes and standards. Sets forth requirements for state certifications regarding the energy efficiency of, and compliance with, state residential and commercial building codes. Requires the Secretary to provide: (1) technical assistance to enable the national model building energy codes and standards to meet the targets; (2) assistance to states to comply with this Act; and (3) incentive funding to states to improve and implement building energy efficiency codes.

A bill to amend the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 to establish an energy efficiency resource standard for retail electricity and natural gas distributors.

United States · United States Congress · 20 September 2007

Amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 to require the Secretary of Energy to promulgate regulations regarding: (1) the issuance of credits for electricity and natural gas savings; (2) a national credit trading system; and (3) a system for independent monitoring of the market for such credits. Requires retail electricity or natural gas distributors to submit annually to the Secretary: (1) for each of calendar years 2010-2020 a number of credits equal to specified percentages of the base quantity of electricity or natural gas they delivered to retail customers in the most recent year; and (2) for 2021 and thereafter a number of credits equal to a percentage of such base quantity as the Secretary may determine, but in no case less than the percentage for 2020. Requires the Secretary to: (1) promulgate regulations regarding measurement and verification of electricity and natural gas savings under this Act; and (2) issue credits for verified savings by such distributors and by other entities. Establishes credit values of: (1) 1,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity; and (2) 10 therms of natural gas. Authorizes any entity that receives a credit to: (1) sell or transfer the credit to any other entity; or (2) use the credit to achieve compliance with submission requirements under this Act. Authorizes a distributor to pay the Secretary a buyout fee of $20 for each electricity savings credit or $2 for each natural gas savings credit in lieu of submitting credits. Provides for: (1) state energy efficiency programs in lieu of the program under this Act; and (2) civil penalties for failure to comply with credit submission or buyout requirements.

RECOGNIZING THE WARM FRIENDSHIP AND EXPENDING STRATEGIC RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE UNITED STATES AND BRAZIL, COMMENDING BRAZIL ON SUCCESSFULLY REDUCING ITS DEPENDENCE ON OIL BY FINDING ALTERNATIVE WAYS TO SATISFY ITS ENERGY NEEDS, AND RECOGNIZING THE IMPORTANCE OF THE MARCH 9, 2007, UNITED STATES-BRAZIL MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING (MOU) ON BIOFUELS COOPERATIONS

United States · United States House of Representatives · 19 September 2007

Smart Energy Tax Relief Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 19 September 2007

Smart Energy Tax Relief Act of 2007 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to make permanent the tax credits for: (1) nonbusiness energy property expenditures; (2) gas produced from biomass and for synthetic fuels produced from coal; and (3) energy efficient household appliances (i.e., dishwashers, clothes washers, refrigerators).

Close the Enron Loophole Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 September 2007

Close the Enron Loophole Act - Amends the Commodity Exchange Act to provide that it applies to an agreement, contract, or transaction in an exempt commodity that is executed or traded on an electronic trading facility that is an energy trading center. Prohibits any person from entering into an agreement, contract, or transaction for future delivery of an energy commodity that is not a spot sale of cash commodity or a sale of a cash commodity for deferred shipment or delivery on or through an energy trading facility that is not registered as such with the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). Sets forth registration criteria. Requires CFTC to ensure that the position limits and accountability levels applicable to contracts in an energy commodity listed for trading on a designated contract market and similar contracts in the same energy commodity listed for trading on an energy trading facility: (1) prevent price manipulation, excessive speculation, price distortion, and disruption of the delivery or cash-settlement process; and (2) are on a parity with each other and are applied in a functionally equivalent manner. Requires CFTC to take necessary action to direct an energy trading facility or a designated contract market to require a person who has exceeded an applicable position limit or accountability level in an energy commodity to limit, reduce, or liquidate any position to prevent or reduce the threat of price manipulation, excessive speculation, price distortion, or disruption of the delivery or cash-settlement process. Sets forth provisions concerning the provision of information and records about energy trading contracts to CFTC. Revises provisions concerning the prohibition on energy contracts designed to defraud or mislead, including by prohibiting any person from cheating or defrauding another person in connection with any contract of sale of any commodity in interstate commerce or for future delivery that is made subject to the rules of a designated contract market for or on behalf of any such person (currently the provisions prohibit members of registered entities, correspondent agents, or employees of members from such actions.) Requires CFTC to issue a rule regarding the requirements for an application for registration for an energy trading facility.

Recognizing the warm friendship and expanding strategic relationship between the United States and Brazil, commending Brazil on successfully reducing its dependence on oil by finding alternative ways to satisfy its energy needs, and recognizing the importance of the March 9, 2007, United States-Brazil Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on biofuels cooperation.

United States · United States Congress · 17 September 2007

Recognizes that the United States and Brazil have arrived at the point of a strategic confluence of interests and urges President George W. Bush to continue to deepen the bilateral relationship between the two countries. Recognizes Brazil's role as a leader in the Western Hemisphere and commends its leadership of the United Nations Stabilization Mission (MINUSTAH) in Haiti. Commends Brazil for successfully diversifying its energy resources and reducing its dependence on oil. Recognizes that the United States has arrived at the point of a strategic confluence of interests with Brazil and welcomes continued development in the bilateral relationship between the two countries. Supports the March 9, 2007, United States-Brazil Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on biofuels as a major step forward in bilateral relations, hemispheric integration, and energy diversification. Commends joint efforts by the United States and Brazil for their commitment to use expertise to provide technical assistance for biofuels industries in third countries, currently including the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Haiti, and St. Kitts and Nevis. Encourages U.S. and Brazilian officials to quickly identify additional countries in the Western Hemisphere to receive technical assistance related to biofuels.

Energy Efficient Appliance Tax Credit for Washers and Dryers Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 14 September 2007

Energy Efficient Appliance Tax Credit for Washers and Dryers Act of 2007 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a tax credit for 25% of the cost (up to $500) of clothes washers and dryers which meet requirements for the Energy Star program. Terminates such credit after 2016.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY LIGHTING

United States · United States Senate · 12 September 2007

Gender Bias Elimination Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 10 September 2007

Gender Bias Elimination Act of 2007 - Requires the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Secretary of Energy, the Secretary of Defense, and the Director of the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to separately host mandatory national meetings that educate members of review panels, university department chairs, and agency program officers about methods that minimize the effects of gender bias in evaluation. Requires that such meetings be held biennially for each major discipline. Instructs such agencies to enforce the federal anti-discrimination laws at universities and other higher education institutions through regular compliance reviews and prompt and thorough investigation of discrimination complaints. Requires enforcement efforts to evaluate whether universities have engaged in any discrimination banned under such laws. Requires the collection storage, and publication of specified grant data composite information. Requires submission by each agency of specified reports on: (1) workshop content and attendance, along with data on the participation of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics; and (2) the impact of such program to reduce gender bias towards women engaged in research funded by the agency.

To amend the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 to improve and strengthen the safety inspection process of nuclear facilities.

United States · United States Congress · 6 September 2007

Amends the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 to direct the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to: (1) develop an independent safety assessment procedure for nuclear facilities; and (2) create a team to inspect the design, construction, maintenance, and operational safety performance of a facility. Declares that a final NRC decision on whether to extend an operating license, approve an extended power uprate, or continue to operate a facility shall not be made until: (1) the NRC has completed the independent safety assessment of the facility; and (2) the licensee has fully accepted and implemented each NRC-approved finding and recommendation of the assessment report

Energy Efficient Lighting for a Brighter Tomorrow Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 4 September 2007

Energy Efficient Lighting for a Brighter Tomorrow Act of 2007 - Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to establish new efficiency standards for incandescent lighting. Redefines the term "general service incandescent lamp." Requires general service incandescent lamps, intermediate base incandescent lamps, and candelabra base incandescent lamps to meet specified lamp efficacy, maximum wattage, and Color Rendering Index (CRI) standards. Requires a specified maximum wattage and CRI for certain frosted, clear, and soft white lamps and modified spectrum lamps. Authorizes any person to petition to the Secretary of Energy to: (1) exempt types of general service lamps from efficiency requirements; and (2) establish standards for lamp types that are excluded from the definition of general service lamps. Requires the Secretary, by specified dates, to initiate rulemakings concerning energy efficiency standards for general service incandescent lamps, rough service lamps, vibration service lamps, three-way incandescent lamps, 150-watt general service incandescent lamps, and shatter-resistant lamps. Sets forth specific efficiency standards that become effective if the Secretary fails to complete such rulemakings on specified dates. Requires the Secretary to initiate rulemakings concerning lamp labeling. Requires the Secretary to: (1) conduct an annual assessment of the market for general service lamps and compact fluorescent lamps; and (2) carry out an awareness, information, and education program to help consumers understand lamp labels and make energy-efficient lighting choices. Provides for a state preemption rule for energy conservation standards for general service incandescent lamps, intermediate base incandescent lamps, and candelabra base lamps. Makes it unlawful for any manufacturer, distributor, retailer, or private labeler to distribute adapters that: (1) allow incandescent lamps that do not have medium screw bases to be installed into fixtures or lampholders with such base sockets; and (2) have a voltage range that includes 110 and 130 volts. Authorizes the Secretary to carry out a lighting technology research and development program. Requires the Secretary to submit to Congress a report describing recommendations relating to the means by which the federal government may reduce or prevent the release of mercury during the manufacture, transportation, storage, or disposal of light bulbs. Sets forth requirements concerning metal halide lamp fixtures and ballasts. Provides for a preemption rule for regulations concerning such fixtures adopted by the California Energy Commission on or before January 1, 2011.

FULL COMMITTEE HEARING ON THE COST AND AVAILABILITY OF ENERGY AND THE EFFECT ON SMALL BUSINESSES

United States · United States House of Representatives · 31 August 2007