Energy

Advanced Design in Energy for Living Efficiently Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 12 July 2007

Advanced Design in Energy for Living Efficiently Act of 2007 - Requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to: (1) coordinate and provide information on green building design and practices; (2) establish a program to create and distribute information on green building design principles; and (3) establish criteria for education and training of architects, engineers, and developers in green building design and application. Requires the National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS) to establish a blue ribbon panel to: (1) provide independent counsel to the Administrator on policy issues associated with green building design and practices; (2) report on the results of a study to determine best practices for quantifying the information necessary to make informed property investment decisions; (3) report on funding necessary for research and development on green building design; and (4) establish standards for the construction of new buildings that will reduce carbon emissions. Requires the U.S. Comptroller General to study the use of the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development's program for energy efficient mortgages insured under the National Housing Act. Authorizes the Administrator, acting through NIBS, to award grants to state educational agencies to provide sub-grants to local educational agencies for planing and preparing for healthy, high-performance school building projects. Requires the Administrator: (1) acting through NIBS, to assist local education agencies on sustainable designs; and (2) to establish a program to make loan guarantees available to public institutions of higher education for the construction or renovation of permanent buildings that meet the greenhouse gas emission standards. Requires federal agencies to: (1) increase the energy efficiency of their facilities and operations; (2) annually report on the associated energy efficiency increases and carbon emission reductions; and (3) reward employees who make significant contributions to the reduction of agency carbon emissions. Requires federal agencies' energy managers to receive training on green building design, construction, use, and decommissioning. Requires the Comptroller General to transmit to Congress a report comparing the energy efficiency budget request by the President for each federal agency for FY2006-2007 with each agency's request. Requires the Administrator to make block grants to state and local governments for: (1) renovating existing buildings to achieve NIBS standards; (2) redesigning existing plans to enable new buildings to meet such standards; (3) researching and developing technologies to enable and support green building design and the achievement of such standards; and (4) educating and training on green buildings and their construction, use, and decommissioning. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to increase and extend the energy efficient commercial building deduction.

Calling on the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan to immediately release Farhad Aliyev and Rafiq Aliyev from detention during trial, to assure that their right to a fair and open trial before an independent and impartial tribunal will be carried out, and to comply with all its international human rights agreements and commitments respecting the rule of law, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 12 July 2007

Calls on the government of the Republic of Azerbaijan to: (1) release Farhad Aliyev and Rafiq Aliyev from detention during trial and to assure their right to a fair and open trial; (2) implement visitation rights for family and medical and international legal advisers for Farhad and Rafiq Aliyev; and (3) fulfill its international obligations, including obligations relating to its membership in the Council of Europe, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), the Convention on Human Rights, and the Energy Charter Treaty. Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) the U.S. government should use all available means, including diplomatic channels, to encourage the government of Azerbaijan to release Farhad and Rafiq Aliyev from detention during trial and prosecute those individuals who beat and attack journalists; (2) the U.S. government should coordinate actions with appropriate international organizations; and (3) the OSCE should monitor such legal proceedings for compliance with the Helsinki Final Act.

Preserve our Salmon and Renewable Energy Resolution

United States · United States Congress · 12 July 2007

Preserve our Salmon and Renewable Energy Resolution - Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) the dams on the Columbia and Snake Rivers are essential to commerce in the Pacific Northwest; (2) the survivability rate of salmon and steelhead has increased since the dams have been in place; (3) breaching the dams will not guarantee recovery of salmon and steelhead; (4) the environmental impact of removing the dams will be extremely damaging; (5) the dams on the Columbia and Snake Rivers provide renewable pollution free energy to the Pacific Northwest and helps backup California's power grid; and (6) two conclusive and exhaustive studies have already been completed which considered removing the dams or reservoir drawdown on the Snake River and concluded that we need to keep the dams.

Low Carbon Economy Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 11 July 2007

Low Carbon Economy Act of 2007 - Requires specified regulated entities (including certain fuel distributors and owners and operators of coal facilities or nonfuel regulated entities) to submit to the President: (1) the number of allowances or credits equal to the entity's covered greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions; or (2) a payment equal to the amount of the technology accelerator payment (TAP) price in lieu of submission of required allowances. Requires the President to establish a trading system for such allowances and credits. Requires TAP payments to be deposited into the Energy Technology Deployment Fund. Requires the Secretary of Energy to: (1) report on next generation technologies that can reduce and use methane emissions; and (2) use a portion of the Fund to carry out a methane research and development program. Provides for: (1) allowances to industry, carbon-intensive manufacturing facilities, and states; (2) agricultural sequestration allowances; (3) allowances for early reduction projects; (4) bonus allowances to entities that implement geological sequestration projects; and (5) allowances for technology, adaptation, and low-income household assistance. Provides for credits for: (1) activities that take specified GHG precursors (specified fuel, hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons, sulfur hexafluoride, or nitrous oxide) out of commerce in the United States; (2) carbon dioxide sequestration; and (3) specified offset projects. Establishes: (1) the Energy Technology Deployment Fund for the zero- or low-carbon energy technologies program, the advanced coal and sequestration technologies program, the cellulosic biomass ethanol and municipal solid waste technology deployment programs, and the advanced technology vehicles manufacturing incentive program; (2) the Climate Adaptation Fund for adaptation programs to address climate change impacts and for fish and wildlife conservation programs; and (3) the Energy Assistance Fund for the low-income home energy assistance program, the Weatherization Assistance Program for Low-Income Persons, and the rural energy assistance program. Requires the President to establish an interagency group to review comparable action by foreign countries with respect to GHG emissions and to make recommendations with respect to foreign credits and international offset projects. Authorizes the President to establish a program to distribute credits for the GHG mitigation benefits of offset projects outside the United States. Requires any U.S. importer of certain covered goods, as a condition of importation, to make a written declaration that the goods are accompanied by a sufficient number of international reserve allowances. Authorizes the President to establish a trading system of international reserve allowances for imported goods.

To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to make geothermal heat pump systems eligible for the energy credit and the residential energy efficient property credit.

United States · United States Congress · 11 July 2007

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow an energy tax credit and a residential energy efficient property tax credit for geothermal heat pump systems.

Republic of the Marshall Islands Supplemental Nuclear Compensation Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2007

Republic of the Marshall Islands Supplemental Nuclear Compensation Act of 2007 - Amends the Compact of Free Association Amendments Act of 2003 to direct the Secretary of Energy to periodically survey and report on radiological conditions on Runit Island. Amends the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act of 2000 to include a citizen of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands within the definitions of "covered employee," "atomic weapons employee," and "Department of Energy contractor employee." Coordinates specified benefits with respect to the Compact of Free Association (as defined by this Act). Directs the Secretary of the Interior to use amounts appropriated by this Act to supplement health care in the communities affected by the U.S. nuclear testing program, including outer island primary healthcare facilities of the Republic of the Marshall Islands in: (1) Enewetak Atoll, (2) Kili (until the resettlement of Bikini); (3) Majetto Island in Kwajalein Atoll (until the resettlement of Rongelap Atoll); and (4) Utrik Atoll. Provides for a National Academy of Sciences assessment of the U.S. nuclear testing program's health impacts on the residents of the Republic of the Marshall Islands.

A resolution making minority party appointments for the 110th Congress.

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2007

Designates the Minority party membership on the following Committees for the 110th Congress: (1) Energy and Natural Resources; (2) Environment and Public Works; (3) Finance; and (4) Indian Affairs.

Home Energy Assistance Targeted for Seniors Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2007

Home Energy Assistance Targeted for Seniors Act - Amends the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Act of 1981 to rename it the Low-Income and Senior Home Energy Assistance Act of 1981. Redefines low-income households as households with incomes which do not exceed that of state median income, with at least 50% of the household income attributable to persons who are at least 65 years old.

Recognizing the energy and economic partnership between the United States and Honduras.

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2007

Declares that the House of Representatives: (1) recognizes the energy and economic partnership between the United States and Honduras; (2) honors all who are working for the betterment of both countries; and (3) offers its hope that this is the beginning of a long and prosperous energy and economic partnership between the United States and Honduras.

Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act, 2008

United States · United States Congress · 9 July 2007

Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act, 2008 - Makes appropriations for FY2008 to the Department of the Army, Corps of Engineers, the Department of the Interior for the Central Utah Project Completion Account and the Bureau of Reclamation, and the Department of Energy (DOE). Makes appropriations for FY2008 for: (1) specified atomic energy defense activities; and (2) defense environmental cleanup and other defense activities including defense nuclear waste disposal. Approves specified expenditures from the Bonneville Power Administration Fund. Makes FY2008 appropriations for: (1) the Southeastern Power Administration; (2) the Southwestern Power Administration; (3) the Western Area Power Administration; (4) the Falcon and Amistad Operating and Maintenance Fund; (5) the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission; and (6) designated DOE activities. Makes FY2008 appropriations to: (1) the Appalachian Regional Commission; (2) the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board; (3) the Delta Regional Authority; (4) the Denali Commission; (5) the Nuclear Regulatory Commission; (6) the Office of Inspector General; (7) the Nuclear Waste Technical Review Board; and (8) the Office of the Federal Coordinator for Alaska Natural Gas Transportation Projects.

California Ocean and Coastal Protection Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 June 2007

California Ocean and Coastal Protection Act - Amends the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to prohibit oil and gas preleasing, leasing, and related activities in areas of the Outer Continental Shelf located off the coast of California. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to exclude such areas from the waters of the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf whose oil and natural gas resources the Secretary of Energy is required to inventory and analyze.

Energy Efficient Buildings Promotion Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 June 2007

Energy Efficient Buildings Promotion Act - Amends the Energy Conservation and Production Act to direct the Secretary of Energy to establish, by rule, revised building energy performance standards for new federal buildings and those undergoing major renovations. Amends the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase: (1) limitations for the nonbusiness energy property tax credit; (2) the applicable amount for the new energy efficient home credit; and (3) the per square footage dollar amount for the energy efficient commercial buildings deduction. Requires the Secretary to study and make recommendations to Congress on whether to conform certain Internal Revenue Code incentives, as provided in the Energy Policy Act of 2005, to the building energy performance goal established under this Act.

Renewable Fuels, Consumer Protection, and Energy Efficiency Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 28 June 2007

Renewable Fuels, Consumer Protection, and Energy Efficiency Act of 2007 - Biofuels for Energy Security and Transportation Act of 2007 - Directs the President to: (1) promulgate regulations establishing a renewable fuel standard; and (2) provide a credit to the owner of any facility that uses renewable energy to displace over 90% of the fossil fuel normally used in renewable fuel production. Directs the Secretary of Energy to establish: (1) a competitive infrastructure pilot grant program for renewable fuels; (2) at least 11 bioresearch centers for systems biology; (3) grants for renewable fuel production research and development in certain states; (4) grants to Indian tribes and local governments for infrastructure for transportation of biomass to local biorefineries; and (5) a biorefinery information center. Authorizes loan guarantees for advanced biofuel projects. Directs the Secretary and the National Institute of Standards and Technology to establish jointly a public alternative fuel database and related standard reference materials. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to prescribe a fuel tank cap labeling requirement. Directs the President to promulgate a national biodiesel fuel quality standard. Requires transitional assistance payments to farmers who plant dedicated energy crops for a local cellulosic refinery. Directs the President to establish a grant program for research and development in support of low-carbon fuels. Requires the Secretary to study and report to Congress on: (1) advanced biofuels technologies; (2) increased consumption of ethanol-blended gasoline with higher levels of ethanol; (3) ethanol pipeline feasibility; (4) optimization of flexible fueled vehicles to use E-85 fuel; (5) credits for use of renewable electricity in electric vehicles; (6) engine durability associated with the use of biodiesel; (7) streamlined lifecycle analysis tools for the evaluation of renewable carbon content of biofuels; (8) the effects of ethanol-blended gasoline on off-road vehicles; and (9) offshore wind resources. Directs the President to study and report to Congress on incentives for renewable fuels. Directs the Secretary to establish a grant program for production of advanced biofuels. Amends the Clean Air Act to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to arrange with the National Academy of Sciences for two studies on the effects of increased domestic renewable fuel use. Requires the EPA Administrator to: (1) study whether the renewable fuel volumes required by this Act will adversely impact air quality as a result of changes in vehicle and engine emissions of regulated air pollutants; and (2) promulgate regulations to implement appropriate mitigation (anti-backsliding) measures. Energy Efficiency Promotion Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary to take specified actions to: (1) promote advanced lighting technologies; (2) expedite new energy efficiency standards; (3) promote high efficiency vehicles and advanced batteries; (4) set energy efficiency goals; (5) promote federal leadership in energy efficiency and renewable energy; (6) assist state and local governments in energy efficiency; and (7) promote marine and hydrokinetic renewable energy. United States Energy Storage Competitiveness Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary to: (1) carry out a research, development, and demonstration program to support the U.S. ability to remain globally competitive in energy storage systems for motor transportation and electricity transmission and distribution; (2) establish an Energy Storage Advisory Council; and (3) establish up to four energy storage research centers. Establishes a National Commission on Energy Independence. Carbon Capture and Sequestration Act of 2007 - Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to direct the Secretary of Energy to carry out research to develop new approaches to capture and store, recycle, or reuse carbon dioxide. Requires the Architect of the U.S. Capitol to establish a competitive Capitol power plant carbon dioxide emissions demonstration program. Requires the Secretary of Commerce to establish within the Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) a program of scientific research on abrupt climate change. Public Buildings Cost Reduction Act of 2007 - Directs the Administrator of General Services (GSA Administrator) to accelerate the use of more cost-effective technologies and practices and geothermal heat pumps at General Services Administration (GSA) facilities. Requires the EPA Administrator to establish a demonstration grant program to assist local governments to deploy such technologies in their government buildings. Directs the GSA Administrator to install a photovoltaic system at the Department of Energy headquarters building in Washington, D.C. High-Performance Green Buildings Act of 2007 - Directs the GSA Administrator to appoint a Director who shall establish an Office of High-Performance Green Buildings (OHPGB) to conduct research and development to move the federal government toward construction of high-performance green buildings. Directs the EPA Administrator to make grants to state agencies for healthy school environments. Requires the OHPGB Director to: (1) identify incentives to encourage federal government use of green buildings and related technology; and (2) establish guidelines to implement a demonstration project related to OHPGB goals. Ten-in-Ten Fuel Economy Act - Directs the Secretary of Transportation to: (1) prescribe average fuel economy standards for automobiles and commercial medium-heavy or heavy-duty on-highway vehicles; (2) issue a vehicle safety compatibility standard and biodiesel standards; (3) establish a national tire efficiency consumer information program and an Advanced Battery Initiative; and (4) carry out an alternative fuels grant program and an alternative fuel vehicle action plan. Authorizes a corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) credit trading program. Establishes an Energy Security Fund. Directs the Secretaries of Transportation and of Energy to study jointly and report to Congress on the adequacy of transportation of domestically-produced renewable fuel by railroads and other modes of transportation. Petroleum Consumer Price Gouging Protection Act - Prohibits any price gouging with respect to crude oil gasoline or petroleum distillates during presidentially declared energy emergencies, related market manipulation, and reporting of false price information to federal agencies. Authorizes the President to declare a federal energy emergency in certain circumstances. Provides for mandatory enforcement by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and discretionary enforcement by state Attorneys General. Energy Diplomacy and Security Act of 2007 - Urges the Secretary of State, in coordination with the Secretary of Energy, immediately to: (1) seek to establish and expand strategic energy partnerships with the governments of major energy producers and major energy consumers, and with governments of other countries; (2) establish a petroleum crisis response mechanism or mechanisms with the governments of China and India; and (3) seek to establish such a mechanism for the Western Hemisphere, as well as a Hemisphere Energy Cooperation Forum. No Oil Producing and Exporting Cartels Act of 2007, or NOPEC - Makes it unlawful for any foreign state (or instrumentality or agent) to act collectively or in combination with any other foreign state (or instrumentality or agent) or any other person to limit oil or natural gas production or distribution, set or maintain related prices, or otherwise restrain trade for oil, natural gas, or any petroleum product when such action has a direct, substantial, and reasonably foreseeable effect on the U.S. market. Authorizes civil enforcement under the antitrust laws. Allocates contingent costs associated with U.S. participation by the United States in the international nuclear liability compensation system established by the Convention on Supplementary Compensation for Nuclear Damage. Directs the Secretary to study and report to Congress on the effect of private wire laws on the development of combined heat and power facilities. Amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 to establish a renewable portfolio standard.

To increase the corporate average fuel economy standards for automobiles, to promote the domestic development and production of advanced technology vehicles, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 28 June 2007

Revises corporate average fuel economy standards (CAFE standards) provisions for non-passenger and passenger automobiles to: (1) provide for increased average fuel economy standards for non-passenger and passenger automobiles; (2) permit separate average fuel economy standards for non-passenger and passenger automobiles based on vehicle attributes related to fuel economy; (3) establish a a corporate average fuel economy credit transferring program within a manufacturer's fleet; (4) establish an account to fund domestic commercialization and production of advanced technology vehicles and vehicle components; and (5) extend for 10 years provisions providing manufacturing incentives for alternative fuel automobiles. Establishes a national tire fuel efficiency consumer information program. Provides for the establishment of a public education campaign to provide information to U.S. drivers about immediate measures that may be taken to conserve transportation fuel.

Transition Education Accountability Report Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 28 June 2007

Transition Education Accountability Report Act of 2007 - Requires the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to report to the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate on the measures taken by the FCC, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, and other federal agencies to inform the public of the transition to digital television broadcasting and the termination of analog broadcasting. Requires the FCC to provide for the public dissemination of the report.

Nuclear Terrorism Prevention Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 27 June 2007

Nuclear Terrorism Prevention Act of 2007 - Expresses the sense of Congress: (1) that the President should make the prevention of a nuclear terrorist attack on the United States of the highest priority; and (2) regarding appropriate steps to prevent nuclear terrorism. Directs the President to designate an individual to serve in the Executive Office of the President as the Senior Advisor to the President for the Prevention of Nuclear Terrorism. States as U.S. policy that all possible steps be taken to ensure that all nuclear weapons and formula quantities of strategic special nuclear materials are secure and accounted for, and that all formula quantities of strategic special nuclear material are eliminated or secure and accounted for to a level sufficient to defeat terrorist and criminal threats. Directs the President to seek an international agreement on a global implementing standard for such policy. Requires an annual report from the President to Congress on the security of formula quantities of strategic special nuclear material. Authorizes appropriations for: (1) removal of highly enriched uranium; (2) technical nuclear forensics research and development; (3) conversion of highly enriched uranium; and (4) the International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) Office of Nuclear Security.

To provide for a program of research, development, and demonstration on natural gas vehicles.

United States · United States Congress · 27 June 2007

Directs the Secretary of Energy to: (1) conduct a five-year program of natural gas vehicle research, development, and demonstration; and (2) coordinate with the natural gas vehicle industry and with the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regarding streamlined certification of natural gas conversion systems to federal certification requirements and in-use emission standards.

SUN Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 27 June 2007

Solar Utilization Now Demonstration Act of 2007 or the SUN Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of Energy to establish a program of grants to states to demonstrate advanced photovoltaic technology.

Nuclear Terrorism Prevention Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 27 June 2007

Nuclear Terrorism Prevention Act of 2007 - Expresses the sense of Congress: (1) that the President should make the prevention of a nuclear terrorist attack on the United States of the highest priority; and (2) regarding appropriate steps to prevent nuclear terrorism. Directs the President to designate an individual to serve in the Executive Office of the President as the Senior Advisor to the President for the Prevention of Nuclear Terrorism. States as U.S. policy that all possible steps be taken to ensure that all nuclear weapons and formula quantities of strategic special nuclear materials are secure and accounted for, and that all formula quantities of strategic special nuclear material are eliminated or secure and accounted for to a level sufficient to defeat terrorist and criminal threats. Directs the President to seek an international agreement on a global implementing standard for such policy. Requires an annual report from the President to Congress on the security of formula quantities of strategic special nuclear material. Authorizes appropriations for: (1) removal of highly enriched uranium; (2) technical nuclear forensics research and development; (3) conversion of highly enriched uranium; and (4) the International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) Office of Nuclear Security.

Electing a minority member to a standing committee of the House of Representatives.

United States · United States Congress · 27 June 2007

Elects a named Minority Member to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.

Renewable Energy Tax Parity Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2007

Renewable Energy Tax Parity Act of 2007 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to include a 30% credit for qualified biomass fuel property expenditures as part of the tax credit for residential energy efficient property. Defines "qualified biomass fuel property expenditure" as an expenditure for property which uses the burning of biomass fuel (i.e., any renewable plant-derived fuel) to heat a residence and which has a thermal efficiency rating of at least 75%.

International Nuclear Fuel for Peace and Nonproliferation Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2007

International Nuclear Fuel for Peace and Nonproliferation Act of 2007 - States that it is U.S. policy to support the establishment of an international regime for the assured supply of nuclear fuel for peaceful means under multilateral authority, such as the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Authorizes the President to make grant basis contributions to the IAEA for an international nuclear fuel bank to maintain a low-enriched uranium reserve of reactor fuel for eligible countries. Requires the President, prior to making such contributions, to certify to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs and the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations that: (1) the IAEA has received specified monetary pledges for the international nuclear fuel bank; (2) the bank will be established in a non-nuclear weapon state under IAEA oversight; and (3) the bank will provide nuclear reactor fuel only to a country that is in full compliance with IAEA and other safeguards, agrees to use the nuclear reactor fuel in accordance with IAEA safeguards, does not operate uranium enrichment or spent-fuel reprocessing facilities, and is not a state sponsor of terrorism.

To promote the production and use of ethanol.

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2007

Amends the Petroleum Marketing Practices Act to prohibit a franchisor from restricting a franchisee from: (1) installing on the marketing premises a renewable fuel pump or tank; (2) converting an existing tank or pump for renewable fuel use; (3) advertising the sale of renewable fuel; (4) selling renewable fuel; (5) purchasing renewable fuel from sources other than the franchisor if the franchisor does not offer its own renewable fuel for sale by the franchisee; (6) listing renewable fuel availability or prices; or (7) allowing for payment of renewable fuel with a credit card. Allows such franchisee activities so long as they do not constitute willful adulteration, mislabeling, or misbranding of motor fuels or other trademark violations. Instructs the Secretary of Energy to establish a grants program for universities to demonstrate replacing corn as an ethanol feedstock with sweet sorghum. Amends the Clean Air Act and the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to provide for loan guarantees for closed loop ethanol commercial demonstration projects. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) increase and extend the alternative fuel vehicle refueling property credit; (2) make refueling property for biodiesel and renewable biodiesel eligible for the income tax deduction for clean-fuel vehicles and certain refueling property; and (3) increase the credit amount for research relating to alternative and renewable energy processes.

GIVE Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2007

Generations Invigorating Volunteerism and Education Act or the GIVE Act - Amends the National and Community Service Act of 1990 (NSCA) and the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973 (DVSA) to revise the programs under such Acts and reauthorize appropriations for such programs through FY2012. Revises under NSCA: (1) the School-Based and Community-Based Service-Learning programs and Higher Education Innovative Programs for Community Service, also known as Learn and Serve programs; (2) National Service Trust programs, also known as AmeriCorps; (3) the National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC); and (4) the Investment for Quality and Innovation program. Authorizes new Summer of Service programs, within School-Based Learn and Serve programs, that provide certain elementary and secondary school students with summer community service-learning projects for which they earn educational awards. Eliminates the current Community-Based Learn and Serve programs. Gives special consideration to minority institutions of higher education (IHEs) in funding Higher Education Innovative Programs for Community Service. Establishes a new Learn and Serve program, Innovative Service-Learning Programs and Research, providing matching fixed-term grants to states, nonprofit organizations, and IHEs to: (1) provide community service-learning opportunities to elementary and secondary, college, and graduate students; and (2) research and evaluate service-learning. Includes among eligible AmeriCorps programs: (1) an E-corp program increasing community access to technology; (2) a program engaging citizens in public safety, health, and emergency preparedness services; (3) a youth mentoring program; and (4) the Education Awards Only program. Increases National Service educational awards for AmeriCorps, NCCC, and Volunteers in Service to America (VISTA) participants. Includes among needs to be met under the NCCC program, disaster relief, infrastructure improvement, environmental and energy conservation, and urban and rural development. Establishes a National Office of Outreach and Recruitment in the Corporation for National and Community Service. Establishes matching fixed grant Innovative and Model Program Support programs within the Investment for Quality and Innovation program that include service programs for disadvantaged youth. Eliminates federal funding for the Points of Light Foundation. Revises under DVSA: (1) the VISTA program; and (2) the National Senior Service Corps (Senior Corps), including the Retired and Senior Volunteer program (RSVP), the Foster Grandparent program, and the Senior Companion program. Gives priority in VISTA participant selection to disadvantaged youth and retired adults of any profession. Authorizes new VISTA programs, providing grants for programs of national significance that provide poor and rural communities with: (1) financial literacy and planning; (2) before-school and after-school services; (3) community economic development initiatives; (4) assistance to veterans and their families; and (5) health and wellness services. Eliminates the VISTA Literacy Corps, University Year for VISTA, and Literacy Challenge Grant programs. Raises the minimum and maximum stipend provided to VISTA participants. Prioritizes RSVP projects in education, health and wellness, youth crime prevention, public safety, emergency management and relief, and access to technology. Makes anyone 55 years of age or older eligible as Senior Corps volunteers. Authorizes stipends to Foster Grandparent and Senior Companion program volunteers whose income does not exceed 200% of the poverty level. Includes among the programs eligible for Senior Corps funding those addressing energy conservation, the environment, and homeland security. Expresses the sense of the Congress that the number of AmeriCorps, VISTA, and NCCC participants should reach 100,000 by 2012.

Independence Prize Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2007

Independence Prize Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of Energy to establish: (1) a program for awarding prizes to U.S. entities for research, development, and commercialization of advanced or transformational technologies for the production, consumption, and distribution of nonpetroleum-based alternative energy and energy efficiency; and (2) an advisory committee.

Solar Opportunity and Local Access Rights Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 June 2007

Solar Opportunity and Local Access Rights Act - Amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 to require each state regulatory authority with ratemaking authority, and each nonregulated electric utility, to conduct a hearing, and on the basis of such hearing, adopt a net metering standard. Requires retail electric suppliers to make net metering available to retail customers on a first-come-first-served basis. Prescribes implementation requirements regarding: (1) net energy measurement; (2) billing practices; (3) ownership of credits; (4) safety and performance standards; and (5) determination of compliance. Directs the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to publish model interconnection standards for the physical connection between local distribution systems and qualified generation units and qualified electric generation units that do not exceed 2,000 kilowatts of capacity. Requires states to adopt such model standards, subject to FERC approval. Prohibits a state or nonregulated utility from adopting or enforcing any standard or requirement concerning net metering or interconnection that restricts access to the electric power transmission or local distribution system by qualified generators beyond those established under this Act. Allows states to adopt or enforce additional incentives or requirements to encourage qualified generation and net metering, including any that afford: (1) greater access to the electric power transmission and local distribution systems by qualified generators; or (2) greater compensation or credit for electricity generated by qualified generators. Authorizes a contract for renewable energy for public buildings and properties for a maximum period of 30 years. Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 to condition receipt of certain community development block grant (CDBG) funds upon grantee certification that the cost of any permit or license, for construction or installation of any solar energy system for any structure, complies with certain requirements. Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to issue regulations to prohibit any restriction impairing the ability of the owner or lessee of a one-family residential structure to install or use a solar energy system upon such property. Instructs the Secretary of Energy to establish a Center for Advanced Solar Research and Development. Directs the Secretary to issue regulations also requiring that the application for approval of such a system: (1) be processed and approved in the same manner as an application for approval of an architectural modification to the property; and (2) not be willfully avoided or delayed.

Green Jobs Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 25 June 2007

Green Jobs Act of 2007 - Amends the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 to direct the Secretary of Labor to: (1) establish an energy efficiency and renewable energy worker training program; (2) collect and analyze labor market data to track workforce trends resulting from energy-related initiatives under this Act; and (3) award National Energy Training Partnerships Grants to community based nonprofit organizations to carry out national training programs that lead to economic self-sufficiency and develop an energy efficiency and renewable energy industries workforce.

New Jersey/New York Clean Ocean Zone Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 25 June 2007

New Jersey/New York Clean Ocean Zone Act of 2007 - Designates the New York/New Jersey Bight as the New Jersey/New York Clean Ocean Zone. Prohibits the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, the Secretary of the Army, and all states from issuing a permit for ocean dumping, or establishing any new disposal site in the Zone, including under specified provisions of existing law. Terminates all existing disposal site designations, subject to exception. Prohibits: (1) the discharge of a pollutant into the Zone from a point source constructed or put into use after enactment of this Act under specified provisions of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act; and (2) permit issuance for such discharge. Prohibits a state or federal permit issued for the discharge of a pollutant into the Zone from being renewed, reissued, or modified to allow any increase of discharge capacity of any point source or to contain any effluent limitation less stringent than comparable effluent limitations in the permit. Prohibits the permanent extraction of any nonrenewable natural resource from the Zone for commercial or industrial use, except for the primary purpose of maintaining or establishing navigation channels. Prohibits the creation, licensing, leasing, easement granting, or right-of-way granting of certain facilities involving nonrenewable energy, including deepwater ports and pipelines. Prohibits categorically excluding leases, easements, or rights-of-way for renewable energy facilities from specified provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969. Prohibits underwater research or exploration in the Zone unless it meets certain requirements.

Insular Areas Energy Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 22 June 2007

Insular Areas Energy Act of 2007 - Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to authorize the Secretary of Energy to make loan guarantees for target ocean thermal energy conversion systems projects. Authorizes such guarantees for any specified eligible innovative energy projects, including ocean thermal energy conversion systems, which are located in Guam, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands, the U.S. Virgin Islands, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of Palau, as well as any U.S. government installation worldwide (including military bases, embassies, other federally owned or leased facilities, and all territorial waters, seabed, and subsoil of submarine areas adjacent to such installations).

ENERGY EFFICIENCY TECHNOLOGIES AND PROGRAMS

United States · United States Senate · 21 June 2007

Clarence H. Albright, of South Carolina, to be Under Secretary of Energy, vice David Garman, resigned.

United States · United States Senate · 21 June 2007

New Apollo Energy Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 21 June 2007

New Apollo Energy Act of 2007 - Directs the President, when formulating and enforcing national energy policy, to consider the New Apollo Energy Act Performance Goals established by this Act. Advanced Design in Energy for Living Efficiently Act of 2007 - Sets forth requirements governing building enterprises, including: (1) green building design; (2) reduced carbon emissions in new buildings; (3) high-performance school buildings and green building; and (4) energy efficiency increases and carbon emission reductions in federal agencies. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) create an energy tax credit for combined heat and power system property; and (2) extend biodiesel and other specified energy-related tax credits. Get Real Incentives to Drive Plug-in Act - Directs the Secretary of Transportation to establish programs for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. Biofuels Security Act of 2007 - Amends the Clean Air Act to: (1) prescribe reductions for greenhouse gas emissions from vehicles and aircraft; and (2) set forth global climate change requirements. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 regarding low carbon renewable fuel and carbon capture and storage. Amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 regarding: (1) rate design modifications; (2) net metering and interconnection standards; (3) efficiency resource standards; and (4) a federal renewable portfolio standard. Rural Clean Energy Superhighways Act - Amends the Federal Power Act regarding designation of National Renewable Energy Zones. Marine and Hydrokinetic Renewable Energy Promotion Act of 2007 - Establishes: (1) a marine and hydrokinetic renewable energy research program; and (2) the Adaptive Management and Environmental Fund. Amends the National Institute of Standards and Technology Act to provide information sharing and planning assistance to small manufacturing firms to implement new green manufacturing technologies. Sets forth a Green Workforce Education Incentives grants program. Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to authorize loan forgiveness for green workforce members. Establishes the New Energy Technologies Commission. Authorizes a grant program to create clean energy business districts. Prescribes a clean energy technology exports program. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to prescribe an international energy technology deployment program. Directs the Export-Import Bank of the United States to meet renewable energy targets in its lending practices. Establishes the Renewable Energy and Technology Commission. Amends the Export-Import Bank Act of 1945 to: (1) increase financing for renewable energy and energy efficiency transactions; and (2) establish an Office of Renewable Energy Promotion. Instructs the Secretary of Energy to establish the Emerging Clean Energy Technology Venture Capital Fund. Amends the Global Change Research Act of 1990 to prescribe climate change research initiatives. Ending Subsidies for Big Oil Act of 2007 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) deny a deduction for income attributable to domestic production of oil, natural gas, and appurtenant primary products; and (2) augment from five years to seven years the amortization schedule for geological and geophysical expenditures of major integrated oil companies. Royalty Relief for American Consumers Act of 2007 - Prescribes price thresholds for royalty suspension provisions. Sets prerequisites for new leases for oil or natural gas production in the Gulf of Mexico. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to repeal certain federal subsidies for royalty relief for oil and gas, including ones related to Planning Areas Offshore Alaska. Creates a Strategic Energy Efficiency and Renewables Reserve.

To authorize the Secretary of Energy to provide loan guarantees for 100 percent of the cost of construction of new domestic nuclear power production facilities.

United States · United States Congress · 21 June 2007

Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to authorize the Secretary of Energy to make loan guarantees for 100% of the cost of construction of new domestic nuclear power production facilities.

To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide a credit against income tax for biomethane produced from biomass which is equivalent to the credit allowed for electricity produced from biomass.

United States · United States Congress · 21 June 2007

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) allow a tax credit for the production of biomethane from biomass and make such credit amount equal to the tax credit for producing electricity from biomass; and (2) include biomethane facilities as qualified facilities for purposes of the tax credit for producing electricity from renewable resources.

SUBCOMMITTEE HEARING ON MEETING THE WORKFORCE DEMANDS OF SMALL BIO-ENERGY BUSINESSES

United States · United States House of Representatives · 20 June 2007

Overseas Private Investment Corporation Reauthorization Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 20 June 2007

Overseas Private Investment Corporation Reauthorization Act of 2007 - Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to extend Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) authority to make loans and issue investment insurance and investment guarantees. Revises international worker rights provisions. Requires OPIC to institute a climate change mitigation action plan. Prohibits OPIC from approving any contract for any project which significantly involves an extractive industry (as defined by this Act) without: (1) prior congressional notification; and (2) investor and host country agreement to implement Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative principles. Prohibits OPIC from providing assistance for: (1) any railway connection that does not traverse or connect with Armenia and does connect Azerbaijan and Turkey; (2) a project with North Korea, Sudan, or Iran; or (3) an energy sector project of $20 million or more. Provides for increased project transparency. Authorizes OPIC programs in Iraq.

National Environment and Energy Development Act

United States · United States Congress · 20 June 2007

National Environment and Energy Development Act - Declares without force or effect all federal prohibitions against the expenditure of appropriated funds to conduct natural gas leasing and preleasing activities for any area of the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS). Revokes all withdrawals of federal submerged lands from leasing for natural gas exploration and production. Amends the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to prohibit the Secretary of the Interior from: (1) granting a natural gas lease for any OCS located within 25 miles of a state coastline; or (2) issuing any lease for natural gas exploration or development in any OCS area located within 50 miles of a state coastline unless the state has enacted a law approving such lease. Prohibits the Secretary from issuing a lease for natural gas exploration or development in any OCS area located more than 50 miles and less than 100 miles from the coastline of a state if the state has enacted a law disapproving such lease issuance. Sets forth an allocation schedule (including designated reserve accounts) for revenues derived from bonus bids and royalties under qualified gas leases on submerged lands located within the seaward boundaries of a state. Modifies requirements for deeming state seaward boundaries. Authorizes the Secretary to issue leases for development and production of natural gas and associated condensate. Expresses the intent of Congress that this Act result in a healthy and growing American industrial, manufacturing, transportation, and service sector employing America's workforce to assist in the development of affordable energy from the OCS.

To provide for the reinstatement of a license for a certain Federal Energy Regulatory Commission project.

United States · United States Congress · 20 June 2007

Directs the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), upon the request of the licensee for project numbered 7307, to extend the time required for commencement of project construction until 24 months after the date of enactment of this Act. Provides for reinstatement of an terminated license.

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives in opposition to efforts by major natural gas exporting countries to establish a cartel or other mechanism to manipulate the supply of natural gas to the world market for the purpose of setting an arbitrary and nonmarket price or as an instrument of political pressure.

United States · United States Congress · 20 June 2007

Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the United States should: (1) make clear to the governments of major natural gas exporting countries that it regards efforts to establish a cartel or other mechanism to manipulate the supply of natural gas to the world market for the purpose of setting an arbitrary and nonmarket price, or as an instrument of political pressure, to be an unfriendly act prejudicial to the security of the United States and of the world as a whole; (2) develop a joint strategy with its allies and all countries that are importers of natural gas, as well as with cooperative exporting countries, to prevent the establishment of such a cartel or other similar mechanism, including by diversifying sources and alternative means of access by exporters and importers to international markets, such as by pipeline; and (3) work with our allies to reduce our dependence on natural gas and to increase and promote the utilization of clean energy sources.

RESEARCH, EDUCATION AND TRAINING PROGRAMS TO FACILITATE ADOPTION OF SOLAR ENERGY TECHNOLOGIES

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

A bill to authorize loans for renewable energy systems and energy efficiency projects under the Express Loan Program of the Small Business Administration.

United States · United States Congress · 19 June 2007

Amends the Small Business Act to allow loans to be made under the Express Loan Program for purchasing a renewable energy system or for an energy efficiency project for an existing business.

Convention on Supplementary Compensation for Nuclear Damage Contingent Cost Allocation Act

United States · United States Congress · 19 June 2007

Convention on Supplementary Compensation for Nuclear Damage Contingent Cost Allocation Act - Declares that certain funds designated under provisions (commonly known as the Price-Anderson Act) of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 to provide indemnification shall be used to cover the contingent cost resulting from any nuclear incident for which such funds would be available to compensate for public liability (Price-Anderson incident). States that certain funds made available to the United States under the Convention on Supplementary Compensation for Nuclear Damage shall be used to satisfy public liability resulting from a Price-Anderson incident. Requires participation by each nuclear supplier in a retrospective risk pooling program to cover the contingent cost resulting from a nuclear incident outside the United States that is not a Price-Anderson incident. Requires the Secretary of Energy to report to Congress every five years on whether there is a need for continuation or amendment of this Act.

Small Business Energy Efficiency Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 19 June 2007

Small Business Energy Efficiency Act of 2007 - Sets a deadline for final rules establishing a small business education and assistance program regarding energy efficiency. Creates in the Small Business Administration (SBA) the position of Assistant Administrator for Small Business Energy Policy. Establishes a Small Business Energy Efficiency Pilot Program to provide energy efficiency assistance to small businesses through small business development centers. Makes centers selected for the program eligible for grants. Creates a pilot program to provide information regarding telecommuting to small businesses and to encourage the businesses to offer telecommuting options to employees, including outreach regarding individuals with disabilities. Amends the Small Business Act to require the SBA Administrator, in carrying out duties related to Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer Program (STTR) solicitations by federal agencies, to ensure that the agencies give priority to small businesses that participate in or conduct energy efficiency or renewable energy system research and development projects. Allows loans to be made under the Express Loan Program for purchasing a renewable energy system or for an energy efficiency project for an existing business.

Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation Tax Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 19 June 2007

Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation Tax Act of 2007 - Amends Internal Revenue Code provisions relating to renewable energy sources and energy conservation. Extends: (1) the tax credit for producing electricity from renewable resources through 2012; (2) the energy tax credit for investment in solar energy and fuel cell property through 2016; (3) the special rule for treatment of gain from electronic transmission transactions by certain electric utilities through 2009; (4) the tax credit for installing nonhydrogen alternative fuel refueling property through 2010; (5) the income and excise tax credits for biodiesel and renewable diesel used as fuel through 2010; and (6) the tax deduction for energy efficient commercial building expenditures through 2013. Allows new tax credits for: (1) investment in new clean renewable energy bonds, qualified energy conservation bonds, and residential energy efficiency assistance bonds; and (2) the production of plug-in hybrid motor vehicles, cellulosic alcohol fuel, and electricity from marine and hydrokinetic renewable energy sources. Allows a tax exclusion for bicycle commuting reimbursements. Revises certain tax incentives for investment in the New York Liberty Zone. Revises tax credit amounts for certain energy efficient household appliances produced after 2007. Allows a five-year recovery period for the depreciation of qualified energy management devices. Denies a tax deduction for income attributable to the domestic production of oil, natural gas, and any related products. Increases to seven years the amortization period for geological and geophysical expenditures for major integrated oil companies. Revises tax rules relating to foreign oil and gas extraction income and foreign produced fuel used or sold outside the United States.

Biofuels Research and Development Enhancement Act

United States · United States Congress · 19 June 2007

Biofuels Research and Development Enhancement Act - Directs the Secretary of Energy (Secretary) to establish an technology transfer center to make information available on research, development, and commercial application of technologies related to biofuels and biorefineries, including: (1) biochemical and thermochemical conversion technologies to make fuels from lignocellulosic feedstocks; (2) biotechnology processes that emphasize enzyme-based processing systems; and (3) other advances to enable biofuel development. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to instruct the Secretary to implement a research, development, and demonstration program relating to: (1) existing transportation fuel distribution infrastructure and new alternative distribution infrastructure, focusing on the physical and chemical properties of biofuels and prevention of or mitigation against certain adverse impacts; (2) bioresearch centers located in Petroleum Administration for Defense Districts, with a focus on biofuels; and (3) increased energy efficiency and reduced energy consumption in biorefinery facilities. Directs the Secretary to make grants for research, development, demonstration, and commercial application of biofuel production technologies in states with low rates of ethanol production and of cellulosic biomass ethanol. Requires the Secretary to study and report to Congress on: (1) research and development challenges in increasing to 5% biodiesel fuel sold in the United States; (2) the feasibility of increasing domestic consumption of ethanol-blended gasoline with specified levels of ethanol; (3) whether optimizing flexible fueled vehicles to use E-85 fuel would increase their fuel efficiency; and (4) the effects of biodiesel upon engine durability.

Solar Energy Research and Advancement Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 19 June 2007

Solar Energy Research and Advancement Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of Energy to establish a research and development program to provide lower cost and more viable thermal energy storage technologies to enable the shifting of electric power loads on demand and extend the operating time of concentrating solar power electric generating plants. Instructs the Secretary to study and report to Congress on methods to: (1) integrate concentrating solar power into regional electricity transmission systems, identifying new transmission or transmission upgrades needed to bring electricity from high concentrating solar power resource areas to growing electric power load centers throughout the United States; and (2) reduce the amount of water consumed by concentrating solar power systems.

Electing a minority member to a standing committee of the House of Representatives.

United States · United States Congress · 19 June 2007

Elects a named Minority Member to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.

Biofuels Research and Development Enhancement Act

United States · United States Congress · 18 June 2007

Biofuels Research and Development Enhancement Act - Directs the Secretary of Energy to establish an information center on research, development, and commercial application of technologies related to biofuels and biorefineries, including: (1) biochemical and thermochemical conversion technologies to make fuels from lignocellulosic feedstocks; (2) biotechnology processes that emphasize enzyme-based processing systems; and (3) other advanced processes and technologies that will enable biofuel development. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to instruct the Secretary to implement a research, development, and demonstration program relating to: (1) existing transportation fuel distribution infrastructure and new alternative distribution infrastructure, focusing on the physical and chemical properties of biofuels and prevention of or mitigation against certain adverse impacts; (2) bioresearch centers located in Petroleum Administration for Defense Districts, with a focus on biofuels; and (3) increased energy efficiency and reduced energy consumption in biorefinery facilities. Directs the Secretary to make grants for research, development, demonstration, and commercial application of biofuel production technologies in states with low rates of ethanol production and of cellulosic biomass ethanol. Requires the Secretary to study and report to Congress on: (1) research and development challenges in increasing to 5% biodiesel fuel sold in the United States; (2) the feasibility of increasing domestic consumption of ethanol-blended gasoline with specified levels of ethanol; (3) whether optimizing flexible fueled vehicles to use E-85 fuel would increase their fuel efficiency; and (4) the effects of biodiesel upon engine durability.

To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide a nonrefundable credit for the purchase of energy efficient tires.

United States · United States Congress · 18 June 2007

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow individual taxpayers a nonrefundable tax credit for the purchase of tires certified by the Department of Transportation as energy efficient. Requires the Secretary of Transportation to establish a system for the permanent labeling of tires as energy efficient.

Northern California Ocean and Coastal Protection Act

United States · United States Congress · 15 June 2007

Northern California Ocean and Coastal Protection Act - Prohibits oil and gas preleasing, leasing, and related activities in areas of the outer Continental Shelf located off the coast of Mendocino, Humboldt, and Del Norte Counties in the state of California. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to exclude such areas from a mandatory inventory of reserves in the Outer Continental Shelf.