Energy

Advanced Nuclear Energy Technologies Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 June 2017

Advanced Nuclear Energy Technologies Act This bill amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to direct the Department of Energy (DOE) to advance the research and development of domestic advanced, affordable, and clean nuclear energy. Specifically, DOE must enter into one or more agreements to carry out at least four advanced nuclear reactor demonstration projects. DOE must establish goals for research relating to advanced nuclear reactors, including by coordinating with members of private industry to advance the demonstration of various designs of advanced nuclear reactors.

Energy Storage Goals and Demonstration Projects Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 June 2017

Energy Storage Goals and Demonstration Projects Act This bill requires the Department of Energy to establish new goals for its energy storage program and enter into agreements to carry out at least three grid-scale energy storage demonstration projects. (The energy storage program supports the ability of the United States to remain globally competitive in energy storage systems for electric drive vehicles, stationary applications, and electricity transmission and distribution.)

Energy and Natural Resources Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 28 June 2017

Energy and Natural Resources Act of 2017 This bill amends the Energy Conservation and Production Act, the Energy Policy and Conservation Act, and the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 with respect to energy efficiency for sectors such as buildings, transportation, schools, and manufacturing. Energy infrastructure concerns are addressed, including cybersecurity threats, pipeline permitting, and requirements for enhanced electric grid storage and security as well as bulk-power system reliability. The bill amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 and specified other Acts regarding: (1) hydroelectric power, (2) geothermal energy, (3) marine hydrokinetic renewable energy, (4) thermal energy, (5) oil and gas, (6) helium, (7) specified critical minerals, (8) fossil energy, (9) nuclear energy, (10) 21st century energy workforce development, and (11) recycled carbon fiber and non-recycled mixed plastics. The bill revises the Department of Energy's loan program for innovative technologies. Additionally, the bill addresses energy and water sustainability; energy innovation, management, markets, and affordability; and repeals the mandates for various specified studies, reports, plans, and programs. The bill establishes and revises requirements for specified conservation programs and sets forth polices regarding land conveyances, national park system management, and hunting, fishing, and recreational shooting on federal land. The bill also addresses matters regarding water infrastructure projects, natural hazards systems and programs, and Indian tribal energy development.

LNG Now Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 28 June 2017

License Natural Gas Now Act of 2017 or the LNG Now Act of 2017 This bill amends the Natural Gas Act to prohibit the federal government from imposing any restriction on the importation and exportation of natural gas.

Water Conservation Tax Parity Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 June 2017

Water Conservation Tax Parity Act This bill amends the Internal Revenue Code to expand the tax exclusion for energy conservation subsidies provided by public utilities to exclude from gross income subsidies provided (directly or indirectly): (1) by a public utility to a customer, or by a state or local government to a resident of such state or locality, for the purchase or installation of any water conservation or efficiency measure; and (2) by a storm water management provider to a customer, or by a state or local government to a resident of such state or locality, for the purchase or installation of any storm water management measure.

Diesel Emissions Reduction Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 27 June 2017

Diesel Emissions Reduction Act of 2017 This bill amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to reauthorize through FY2022 a diesel emissions reduction program. The program authorizes the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to provide grants, rebates, or loans for reducing diesel emissions from certain diesel vehicles or fleets by retrofitting or replacing their engines. The bill modifies requirements governing how the EPA must prioritize projects when providing grants, rebates, and loans. Specifically, the EPA must recognize differences in how vehicles, engines, equipment, and fleets are used across the country as it prioritizes projects that include certified engine configurations, verified technologies, or emerging technologies that have a long expected useful life. Under current law, the EPA must use a certain percentage of the funds made available for the program to support state administered programs for reducing diesel emissions. If a state does not quality for funds, then the funds for the unqualified state must be reallocated to qualified states. This bill requires the funds for the unqualified state to be reallocated to the national diesel emissions reduction program.

Nuclear Waste Policy Amendments Act of 2018

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2017

Nuclear Waste Policy Amendments Act of 2017 This bill amends the Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982 to direct the Department of Energy (DOE) to initiate a program to consolidate and temporarily store commercial spent nuclear fuel during the development, construction, and operation of a permanent nuclear waste repository. The bill addresses federal land withdrawal and related management issues, including the permanent withdrawal of specific federal land for repository use by DOE, updating the Nuclear Regulatory Commission licensing process and conditions for the repository, and limiting activities relating to developing a separate defense waste repository used for storing high-level radioactive waste and spent nuclear fuel derived from the atomic energy defense activities of DOE. DOE may enter into agreements to provide benefits to state, local, and Tribal governments that might host or be affected by facilities related to storing nuclear waste. The bill revises the method by which DOE funds its nuclear waste management activities though the collection and usage of the Nuclear Waste Fund.

Hydropower Policy Modernization Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 23 June 2017

Hydropower Policy Modernization Act of 2017 This bill designates the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) as the lead agency for coordinating all federal authorizations and reviews related to hydropower license applications, including compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969. FERC must establish a process to set a schedule for the review and disposition of each federal authorization following the filing of an application for a license, license amendment, or exemption. The bill expands the definition of "renewable energy" to include electric energy generated from hydropower projects. The bill authorizes FERC to extend the length of time of preliminary permits and to extend the time limit that a licensee has to commence construction on a hydropower project. The bill authorizes the use of trial-type hearings to resolve disputes related to a hydropower license application. Under certain circumstances, the hearing may be demanded by applicants or other parties for any disputed issues of material fact. FERC must consult with federal and state agencies and the public to compile best practices for performing studies and environmental reviews in connection with the timely and efficient completion of hydropower license proceedings. The bill creates a process to approve license amendments for qualifying hydropower projects.

Enhancing State Energy Security Planning and Emergency Preparedness Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 23 June 2017

Enhancing State Energy Security Planning and Emergency Preparedness Act of 2017 This bill amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to provide financial assistance to states for the implementation, review, and revision of a state energy security plan that assesses the state's existing circumstances and proposes methods to strengthen the ability of the state to have a reliable, secure, and resilient energy infrastructure. A state energy security plan must contain specified content, including a risk assessment of energy infrastructure and cross-sector interdependencies, and address potential hazards to each energy sector or system, including physical threats and cybersecurity threats. Upon request of a state, the Department of Energy may provide information and technical assistance, and other assistance, in the development, implementation, or revision of a state energy security plan.

THE PRESIDENT'S BUDGET REQUEST FOR THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY FOR FISCAL YEAR 2018

United States · United States Senate · 22 June 2017

LNG Now Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 22 June 2017

License Natural Gas Now Act of 2017 or the LNG Now Act of 2017 This bill amends the Natural Gas Act to prohibit the federal government from imposing any restriction on the importation and exportation of natural gas. The bill does not limit the President's ability to restrict the importation or exportation of natural gas: (1) during national emergencies or disasters, and (2) to foreign countries if the President declares a national emergency with respect to such country.

Technologies for Energy Jobs and Security Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 22 June 2017

Technologies for Energy Jobs and Security Act of 2017 This bill amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend and modify tax credits for residential energy efficient property and investments in energy property. The bill modifies the tax credit for residential energy efficient property to extend through 2021 the credits for expenditures for fuel cell property, small wind energy property, and geothermal heat pump property. For each extended credit, the bill phases out the current credit rate of 30% of expenditures by reducing it to 26% or 22%, depending on the date that the property is placed in service. The bill extends the tax credit for investments in energy property for the following property with construction that begins before January 1, 2022: fiber-optic solar energy property, thermal energy property. fuel cell property, microturbine property, combined heat and power system property, and small wind energy property. The bill phases out the current credit rate of 30% for investments in geothermal energy property, fiber-optic solar energy property, fuel cell property, and small wind energy property by reducing it to 26% or 22%, depending on the date that the property is placed in service. The bill also allows an energy tax credit through 2021 for investment in waste heat to power property that does not have a capacity in excess of 50 megawatts. "Waste heat to power property" is property comprising a system which generates electricity through the recovery of a qualified waste heat resource.

A bill to amend title 31, United States Code, to provide for the issuance of Green Bonds and to establish the United States Green Bank, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 22 June 2017

This bill establishes a U.S. Green Bank that provides financial support to assist regional, state, and local institutions finance: (1) clean energy (e.g., solar or wind energy) projects, or (2) energy efficiency projects that reduce energy use or substantially reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Department of the Treasury must issue green bonds to provide the bank with: (1) an initial capitalization of $10 billion; and (2) additional capitalization, upon the bank's request, of no more than $50 billion in aggregate at any one time. The bill also establishes in the Treasury a revolving Green Bank Establishment Fund.

A resolution welcoming the President of the Republic of Korea on his official visit to the United States and celebrating the United States-Republic of Korea relationship, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 22 June 2017

Welcomes: (1) the President of the Republic of Korea, Moon Jae-in, on his first official visit to the United States; and (2) opportunities to strengthen security consultation, cooperation, and partnership on matters such as space, cyber, and missile defense. Reaffirms the importance of: (1) the U.S.-South Korea alliance, as enshrined in the Mutual Defense Treaty of 1953; and (2) the U.S. commitment to defend South Korea under Article III of that treaty. Reinforces U.S. commitments to provide extended deterrence to South Korea. Supports efforts to: (1) strengthen such alliance and defend it against provocations by North Korea, (2) protect U.S. Armed Forces stationed on the Korean Peninsula, and (3) peacefully achieve a Korean Peninsula free of nuclear weapons through a diplomatic process. Urges the United States and South Korea to work together: (1) with members of the United Nations Security Council and other member states, to enforce existing sanctions and consider the need to pass additional new measures under Article 41 of the United Nations Charter; and (2) to implement all aspects of the U.S.-Republic of Korea Free Trade Agreement. Encourages the U.S. and South Korean governments to continue to broaden and deepen the alliance by enhancing cooperation and building new partnerships in the security, economic, energy, scientific, health, education, and cultural spheres.

To amend title 31, United States Code, to provide for the issuance of Green Bonds and to establish the United States Green Bank, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 22 June 2017

This bill establishes a U.S. Green Bank that provides financial support to assist regional, state, and local institutions finance: (1) clean energy (e.g., solar or wind energy) projects, or (2) energy efficiency projects that reduce energy use or substantially reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Department of the Treasury must issue green bonds to provide the bank with: (1) an initial capitalization of $10 billion; and (2) additional capitalization, upon the bank's request, of no more than $50 billion in aggregate at any one time. The bill also establishes in the Treasury a revolving Green Bank Establishment Fund.

ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2018

United States · United States Senate · 21 June 2017

21st Century Conservation Service Corps Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 June 2017

21st Century Conservation Service Corps Act of 2017 This bill amends the Public Lands Corps Act of 1993 to replace provisions that established the Public Lands Corps with provisions establishing the 21st Century Conservation Service Corps (21CSC) to: engage youth and veterans in civilian national service positions to conserve, rebuild, and enhance the natural resources, infrastructure, and recreation assets of the United States; increase public access to, and use of, public and tribal land and water, infrastructure, and natural, cultural, and historical resources, while spurring economic development and outdoor recreation and addressing backlogged maintenance on public land; conserve, restore, and enhance such resources by carrying out high-quality, cost-effective projects; ensure that the activities and expertise of corpsmembers will be accessible to any public, nonprofit, or tribal entity responsible for the stewardship of land and water in coordination with the land or water owner; place youth and veterans in civilian national service positions to protect, restore, and enhance U.S. natural resources, infrastructure, and recreation assets in a cost-effective manner without undue duplication or overlap of federal agency activities or programs; and channel widespread interest among youth and veterans in serving in such positions to help conserve, restore, and enhance public and tribal land and water, infrastructure, and natural, cultural, and historical resources and to develop the next generation of outdoor stewards, entrepreneurs, recreationists, and sportsmen. The 21CSC shall be implemented jointly by the participating entities, which shall include the Corporation for National and Community Service, the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and the Departments of Interior, Agriculture, Transportation, Labor, Energy, Defense, Veterans Affairs, Commerce, Education, and Housing and Urban Development. Such entities shall: (1) establish a process for an organization to become a 21CSC organization, and (2) support 21CSC projects. A 21CSC organization shall provide to each youth or veteran corpsmember a wage, stipend, living allowance, and/or an educational credit, as well as skills development, credentials, and education, for participation in a 21CSC project that involves: specified conservation and restoration projects; the support, development, and enhancement of outdoor recreation or urban green space; service that is primarily indoors with a clear benefit for natural, cultural, or historic resources or treasures; or a project on private land or water having a direct or recognized public or environmental benefit or the funding of which originated from a governmental entity. The bill sets forth provisions governing 21CSC conservation centers and program support, the provision of resource assistants, and Corpsmember eligibility for a noncompetitive hiring status and national service educational awards. A participating entity may offer to enter into a cooperative agreement with a tribal agency or a 21CSC organization to establish and administer the Indian Youth 21st Century Conservation Service Corps, which shall carry out 21CSC projects on tribal land or water.

21st Century Conservation Service Corps Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 June 2017

21st Century Conservation Service Corps Act of 2017 This bill amends the Public Lands Corps Act of 1993 to replace provisions that established the Public Lands Corps with provisions establishing the 21st Century Conservation Service Corps (21CSC) to: engage youth and veterans in civilian national service positions to conserve, rebuild, and enhance the natural resources, infrastructure, and recreation assets of the United States; increase public access to, and use of, public and tribal land and water, infrastructure, and natural, cultural, and historical resources, while spurring economic development and outdoor recreation and addressing backlogged maintenance on public land; conserve, restore, and enhance such resources by carrying out high-quality, cost-effective projects; ensure that the activities and expertise of corpsmembers will be accessible to any public, nonprofit, or tribal entity responsible for the stewardship of land and water in coordination with the land or water owner; place youth and veterans in civilian national service positions to protect, restore, and enhance U.S. natural resources, infrastructure, and recreation assets in a cost-effective manner without undue duplication or overlap of federal agency activities or programs; and channel widespread interest among youth and veterans in serving in such positions to help conserve, restore, and enhance public and tribal land and water, infrastructure, and natural, cultural, and historical resources and to develop the next generation of outdoor stewards, entrepreneurs, recreationists, and sportsmen. The 21CSC shall be implemented jointly by the participating entities, which shall include the Corporation for National and Community Service, the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and the Departments of Interior, Agriculture, Transportation, Labor, Energy, Defense, Veterans Affairs, Commerce, Education, and Housing and Urban Development. Such entities shall: (1) establish a process for an organization to become a 21CSC organization, and (2) support 21CSC projects. A 21CSC organization shall provide to each youth or veteran corpsmember a wage, stipend, living allowance, and/or an educational credit, as well as skills development, credentials, and education, for participation in a 21CSC project that involves: specified conservation and restoration projects; the support, development, and enhancement of outdoor recreation or urban green space; service that is primarily indoors with a clear benefit for natural, cultural, or historic resources or treasures; or a project on private land or water having a direct or recognized public or environmental benefit or the funding of which originated from a governmental entity. The bill sets forth provisions governing 21CSC conservation centers and program support, the provision of resource assistants, and Corpsmember eligibility for a noncompetitive hiring status and national service educational awards. A participating entity may offer to enter into a cooperative agreement with a tribal agency or a 21CSC organization to establish and administer the Indian Youth 21st Century Conservation Service Corps, which shall carry out 21CSC projects on tribal land or water.

Natural Gas Export Expansion Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 June 2017

Natural Gas Export Expansion Act This bill amends the Natural Gas Act regarding natural gas imports or exports to expand the expedited application and approval process to any nation, even if not a party to a free trade agreement with the United States, that is not specifically excluded by this bill. The bill excludes any nation subject to sanctions or trade restrictions imposed by the United States or excluded by the President or Congress for national security reasons.

Fairness in Forgiveness Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 21 June 2017

Fairness in Forgiveness Act of 2017 This bill amends title IV (Student Assistance) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 to include as a public service job for purposes of the public service loan forgiveness program a full-time job as an employee of a management and operating contractor of a national laboratory owned by the Department of Energy. This bill and its amendments take effect as if enacted on October 1, 2007.

Climate Solutions Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 20 June 2017

Climate Solutions Act of 2017 This bill amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 by directing the Department of Energy (DOE) to promulgate regulations that require the percentage of electric energy generated from renewable sources that is sold at the retail level to increase each year beginning in 2020 so that in 2050 and each subsequent year, the percentage is at least 80%. DOE must also promulgate regulations that set cumulative energy savings targets for retail electric energy and natural gas suppliers that require each supplier to secure annual savings that are achieved through end-use efficiency improvements at customer facilities. For electric energy suppliers, the targets must increase from .25% of sales in 2020 to 1.5% of sales in 2025 and each year thereafter through 2030. For natural gas suppliers, the target must increase from .25% of sales in 2020 to .5% of sales in 2025 and each year thereafter through 2030. DOE must allow suppliers to achieve the targets through a market-based trading system. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) must promulgate annual emission reduction targets for each of 2030 through 2050 to ensure that U.S. greenhouse gas emissions: (1) in 2035 are at least 40% below those in 1990, and (2) in 2050 are at least 80% below those in 1990. The EPA must promulgate final regulations to implement those targets within 7 years and review them at least every 5 years thereafter.

Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 1873) to amend the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 to enhance the reliability of the electricity grid and reduce the threat of wildfires to and from electric transmission and distribution facilities on Federal lands by facilitating vegetation management on such lands, and providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 1654) to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to coordinate Federal and State permitting processes related to the construction of new surface water storage projects on lands under the jurisdiction of the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture and to designate the Bureau of Reclamation as the lead agency for permit processing, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 20 June 2017

Sets forth the rule for consideration of the bill (H.R. 1873) to amend the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 to enhance the reliability of the electricity grid and reduce the threat of wildfires to and from electric transmission and distribution facilities on Federal lands by facilitating vegetation management on such lands, and providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 1654) to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to coordinate Federal and State permitting processes related to the construction of new surface water storage projects on lands under the jurisdiction of the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture and to designate the Bureau of Reclamation as the lead agency for permit processing.

North American Development Bank Improvement Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 20 June 2017

North American Development Bank Improvement Act of 2017 This bill authorizes the Department of the Treasury to subscribe to and make a payment for 150,000 additional shares of the capital stock of the North American Development Bank. Treasury shall direct the U.S. representatives to the Board of Directors of the bank to use the voice and vote of the United States to support the financing of projects related to: environmental infrastructure relating to water pollution, wastewater treatment, water conservation, municipal solid waste, and related matters; natural gas, including natural gas pipelines and combined cycle power plants, with major emphasis on cross-border energy distribution and consumption and the energy security of the United States and Mexico; and the expansion or new construction of international land border crossings to facilitate the flow of goods and people across the international land border between the United States and Mexico while reducing wait times at border crossings and improving air quality by reducing pollution related to vehicular and commercial traffic. Treasury shall also direct such representatives to seek to require the bank to: develop and implement efficiency improvements to streamline and accelerate the bank's project certification and financing process, and develop performance measures that demonstrate how the projects and financing approved by the bank are meeting its mission and providing value to the region near such border.

Community Economic Assistance Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 16 June 2017

Community Economic Assistance Act of 2017 This bill amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide for the establishment of community economic assistance zones that are eligible for certain tax deductions and credits. A zone must be nominated by the governor of the state where it is located and designated by the Department of the Treasury. A nominated area must: have received a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act notice after December 31, 2014, and met other criteria related to loss of employment; have been (or will be) seriously impacted by changes in trade through loss of employment; or satisfy at least two specified conditions, including status as an energy-transitioning or low-income community and other factors related to employment and economic activity. For businesses or individuals located in or investing in a zone, the bill allows: an employment tax credit, increased expensing, nonrecognition of gain from certain investments, a 3-year carryback of net operating losses, a tax credit for bonds issued for a community economic development plan, a 15-year depreciation period for certain rebuilt and retrofitted property, an increased deduction for start-up expenditures, and an increased new markets tax credit. Treasury must approve community economic development plans using specified criteria and may award grants for assessments to develop the plans. The Department of Commerce must deploy teams to provide support and assistance to a region if: (1) it is requested by the governor, and (2) the region is experiencing or threatened with an abrupt rise of unemployment or other specified economic hardships.

Congratulating and honoring Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory on 50 years of groundbreaking discoveries.

United States · United States Congress · 15 June 2017

Congratulates and honors the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory (Fermilab) on its semicentennial. Wishes Fermilab success in continuing to help the people of the United States understand the mysteries of matter, energy, space, and time.

Planning for American Energy Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 15 June 2017

Planning for American Energy Act of 2017 This bill requires the Department of the Interior to develop and publish a quadrennial federal onshore energy production strategy for energy development and department resource allocation in order to promote the energy security and national security of the United States.

Promoting Interagency Coordination for Review of Natural Gas Pipelines Act

United States · United States Congress · 15 June 2017

Promoting Interagency Coordination for Review of Natural Gas Pipelines Act This bill expands the authority of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to act as the lead agency for the purpose of coordinating all applicable federal authorizations and environmental reviews under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) with respect to authorizing a natural gas pipeline project under the Natural Gas Act. Federal, state, and local agencies involved in the environmental review process must defer to FERC's approved scope for a NEPA review. FERC must invite and designate the other participating agencies involved in the authorization process. A federal, state, or local agency may not participate if it informs FERC that it does not have the necessary authority or expertise, or does not intend to submit comments. An agency that is not designated may not conduct an environmental review unless it is legally required to do so and the agency requires information that FERC could not obtain through its NEPA review. The bill establishes a 90 day deadline to complete an authorization application for other authorizing agencies and requires concurrent reviews when multiple agencies are involved in the authorization process. If a federal or state agency considering an aspect of an application for authorization requires the person applying for such authorization to submit data, the agency must consider any such data gathered by aerial or other remote means that the person submits. FERC must track and publicly display on its website specific information related to the actions required to complete an authorization.

A bill to require the Secretary of Energy to conduct a study and issue a report that quantifies the energy savings benefits of operational efficiency programs and services for commercial, institutional, industrial, and governmental entities.

United States · United States Congress · 15 June 2017

This bill requires the Department of Energy to study and issue a report that quantifies the energy savings benefits of operational efficiency programs and services for commercial, institutional, industrial, and governmental entities, including federal agencies. Those programs and services use information and communications technologies to operate buildings and equipment in the optimum manner at the optimum times. The report must recommend methodologies or protocols for utilities, utility regulators, and federal agencies to evaluate, measure, and verify energy savings from operational efficiency programs and services.

ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2018

United States · United States Senate · 14 June 2017

Pipeline Fairness and Transparency Act

United States · United States Congress · 13 June 2017

Pipeline Fairness and Transparency Act This bill amends the Natural Gas Act to address eminent domain, environmental review for interstate natural gas pipeline projects, and the environmental impacts of natural gas pipeline projects on national scenic trails. This includes requiring the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to hold public meetings in each county (or equivalent subdivision) in which a project will be located.

Promoting Closed-Loop Pumped Storage Hydropower Act

United States · United States Congress · 12 June 2017

Promoting Closed-Loop Pumped Storage Hydropower Act This bill amends the Federal Power Act to authorize the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to issue and amend licenses and preliminary permits for closed-loop pumped storage projects (in which the upper and lower reservoirs do not impound or directly withdraw water from navigable waters, or that are not continuously connected to a naturally flowing water feature). Before issuing such a license, FERC must assess the safety of existing dams and other structures related to the project, including the possible consequences of project failures.

Promoting Hydropower Development at Existing Nonpowered Dams Act

United States · United States Congress · 12 June 2017

Promoting Hydropower Development at Existing Nonpowered Dams Act This bill amends the Federal Power Act (FPA) to authorize the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to exempt from FPA license requirements any qualifying facility (a facility that meets criteria specified in this bill). No federal authorization required for a qualifying facility may include any condition or other requirement that results in any material change to the storage, control, withdrawal, diversion, release, or flow operations of the associated qualifying nonpowered dam. Unless FERC determines that its obligations under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 for granting exemptions under this bill can be met through a categorical exclusion, its environmental review of a proposed exemption shall be only an environmental assessment.

Promoting Cross-Border Energy Infrastructure Act

United States · United States Congress · 12 June 2017

Promoting Cross-Border Energy Infrastructure Act This bill prohibits any person from constructing, connecting, operating, or maintaining a border-crossing facility for the import or export of oil, natural gas, or electricity across an international border of the United States without obtaining a certificate of crossing. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), with respect to oil or natural gas pipelines, or the Department of Energy (DOE), with respect to electric transmission facilities, must issue a certificate of crossing for the border-crossing facility within 120 days after final action is taken under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, unless it is not in the public interest. DOE, as a condition of issuing a certificate, must require that the border-crossing facility be constructed, connected, operated, or maintained consistent with specified policies and standards. The bill amends the Natural Gas Act to require FERC to approve within 30 days after receipt any application for the importation or exportation of natural gas to or from Canada or Mexico. No presidential permit as required under specified executive orders shall be necessary for the construction, connection, operation, or maintenance of an oil or natural gas pipeline or electric transmission facility, including any border-crossing facility. No certificate of crossing shall be required for a modification to an existing facility that is operating for the import or export of oil, natural gas, or electricity prior to the enactment of this bill. FERC and DOE must publish a final rule in the Federal Register within one year to carry out the requirements of this bill.

Capitalizing on American Storage Potential Act

United States · United States Congress · 12 June 2017

Capitalizing on American Storage Potential Act This bill amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to expand the Department of Energy's existing loan guarantee program to any strategic energy infrastructure project that is a regional project which supports a more effective energy market performance and that has the potential to significantly contribute to the economic resilience of the region in which the project is located.

RIVER Act

United States · United States Congress · 12 June 2017

Reliable Investment in Vital Energy Reauthorization Act or the RIVER Act This bill amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to reauthorize through FY2027 and extend eligibility for the program of hydroelectric production incentives and incentive payments to the owners or operators of hydroelectric facilities at existing dams to make capital improvements directly related to improving efficiency.

Appalachian Energy and Manufacturing Infrastructure Revitalization Act

United States · United States Congress · 12 June 2017

Appalachian Energy and Manufacturing Infrastructure Revitalization Act This bill authorizes the Department of Energy and the Department of Commerce to designate an Appalachian regional energy hub project as a critical energy infrastructure project eligible for expedited federal permitting. The bill defines "Appalachian regional energy hub" as a hub that is for natural gas and natural gas liquids, including storage and associated pipelines, and located in the region comprised of Kentucky, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.)

INNOVATION IN ACTION_MICROGRIDS AND HYBRID ENERGY SYSTEMS

United States · United States Senate · 10 June 2017

COST REDUCTIONS IN EMERGING ENERGY TECHNOLOGIES WITH A SPECIFIC FOCUS ON HOW RECENT TRENDS MAY AFFECT TODAY'S ENERGY LANDSCAPE

United States · United States Senate · 8 June 2017

Agriculture Environmental Stewardship Act of 2017

United States · United States Congress · 8 June 2017

Agriculture Environmental Stewardship Act of 2017 This bill amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow energy tax credits through 2021 for investments in: (1) qualified biogas property, or (2) qualified manure resource recovery property. The bill also permits new clean renewable energy bonds to be used for such properties. "Qualified biogas property" comprises a system that: (1) uses anaerobic digesters or other specified processes to convert biomass into a gas which is at least 52% methane, and (2) captures the gas for use as a fuel. The term includes property that cleans and conditions the gas for use as a fuel. "Qualified manure resource recovery property" comprises a system that uses specified processes to recover the nutrients nitrogen and phosphorus from a non-treated digestate or animal manure by reducing or separating at least 50% of the nutrients, excluding any reductions during the incineration, storage, composting, or field application of the non-treated digestate or animal manure. The term also includes certain processing equipment. The Department of the Treasury must enter into an agreement with the National Renewable Energy Laboratory for a study of biogas and report to Congress on the study.

Methane Emissions Mitigation Act

United States · United States Congress · 8 June 2017

Methane Emissions Mitigation Act This bill requires the Department of Energy (DOE) to perform research and develop technology in methane leak detection and mitigation. DOE must also establish a technology clearinghouse for public access to information relating to technologies and best practices for methane leak detection and mitigation.

To extend the deadline for commencement of construction of a hydroelectric project.

United States · United States Congress · 8 June 2017

This bill requires the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), upon request, to extend for up to six years the time period during which construction must commence on the Enloe Hydroelectric Project located on the Similkameen River in Okanogan County, Washington. Additionally, FERC shall reinstate the construction license if it is expired.

ENERGY OPPORTUNITIES IN NORTH AMERICA

United States · United States House of Representatives · 7 June 2017

ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2018

United States · United States Senate · 7 June 2017

Fight Russian Corruption Act

United States · United States Congress · 7 June 2017

Fight Russian Corruption Act This bill amends the State Department Basic Authorities Act of 1956 to require the Department of State to establish the Office of Anti-Corruption relating to Illicit Russian Financial Activities in Europe. Such office shall: (1) analyze financial networks of the Russian Federation operating in European countries that relate to real estate, energy, media, infrastructure, and other sectors; and (2) train U.S. liaison officers to serve in key U.S. diplomatic and consular posts in such countries to cooperate with foreign partners in uncovering and prosecuting illicit Russian financial activity. The bill authorizes the State Department to provide assistance to European countries to combat corruption, including to support: (1) activities of such office; (2) foreign programs focused on investigative journalism and independence of the media environment to expose Russian corruption; and (3) activities in Europe related to anti-corruption, anti-propoganda, and anti-Russian malign influence. The State Department shall seek to work with the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) to: (1) elevate anti-corruption as an element of NATO's Readiness Action Plan, (2) task the NATO Assistant Secretary General for Intelligence and Warning with monitoring Russian influence in NATO member states, and (3) prioritize the combating of Russian influence under the NATO-European Union framework. The Office of the Director of National Intelligence shall submit a National Intelligence Estimate on: (1) purchases made in the last five years by individuals and entities of key sectors in European countries, particularly purchases that provide monopolistic control of a sector; and (2) the individuals and entities making such purchases, including any links to the Russian Federation.

SADD Act

United States · United States Congress · 7 June 2017

Standing Against Dirty Diplomacy Act or the SADD Act This bill amends the Export-Import Bank Act of 1945 to prohibit the Export-Import Bank from guaranteeing, insuring, extending credit, or participating in the extension of credit in connection with the purchase or sale of any good or service for a high carbon intensity project that: (1) is designed to generate electricity, and (2) if completed would produce at least 500 grams of carbon dioxide per kilowatt-hour of electricity generated by the project.

Pipeline Fairness and Transparency Act

United States · United States Congress · 7 June 2017

Pipeline Fairness and Transparency Act This bill amends the Natural Gas Act to address eminent domain, environmental review for interstate natural gas pipeline projects, and the environmental impacts of natural gas pipeline projects on national scenic trails. This includes requiring the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to hold public meetings in each county (or equivalent subdivision) in which a project will be located.

A resolution congratulating and honoring Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory on 50 years of groundbreaking discoveries.

United States · United States Congress · 7 June 2017

Congratulates and honors the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory (Fermilab) on its semicentennial. Wishes Fermilab success in continuing to help the people of the United States understand the mysteries of matter, energy, space, and time.

To amend the Federal Power Act with respect to the criteria and process to qualify as a qualifying conduit hydropower facility.

United States · United States Congress · 6 June 2017

This bill amends the Federal Power Act to revise the criteria for a facility to qualify as a qualifying conduit hydropower facility. Under current law, a hydropower facility must have a capacity that does not exceed five megawatts. This bill eliminates such requirement. Additionally, the bill revises the timeframe for an entity to contest whether its hydroelectric facility meets the qualifying criteria.

David S. Jonas, of Virginia, to be General Counsel of the Department of Energy, vice Steven Croley, resigned.

United States · United States Senate · 25 May 2017

[H.A.S.C. No. 115-51] Fiscal Year 2018 Priorities For Nuclear Forces and Atomic Energy Defense Activity

United States · United States House of Representatives · 25 May 2017