Records whose title is actually about this topic. Use a country filter if the list is still too broad.
Records
Bill· HRH.R. 4337 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1977
Energy Transportation Security Act - Amends the Merchant Marine Act, 1936, to direct the Secretary of Commerce to assure that 20 percent of the gross tonnage of oil transported in bulk on ocean vessels for import into the United States shall be carried on privately owned United States-flag commercial vessels, provided that the Secretary finds that such United States vessels as are available will be adequate to carry such quantity. Raises the requirement to 25 percent after June 30, 1978, and to 30 percent after June 30, 1980. Requires the Secretary to make annual reports to the Congress and the President on the implementation of this Act. Exempts from the provisions of this Act refineries whose capacity is less than 30,000 barrels per day.
Bill· HRH.R. 4326 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1977
Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare to formulate and administer a fuel stamp program under which, at the request of any State Chief executive, an eligible household within such State shall have the opportunity to offset a portion of its fuel bill with coupons amounting to an allotment of $25 monthly. Requires that such coupons be issued to households which have an annual income under $6,500. Restricts the use of such coupons to the payment of fuel bills, or to the offset of rent due where a fuel bill is not paid directly. In the latter case, requires a landlord to use such coupons to pay a portion of his fuel bill and prohibits him from increasing rents in connection with or as a result of the issuance of fuel stamps. Requires each State desiring to participate in the program to submit for approval a plan of operation, and directs each participating State to assume responsibility for the certification of eligible households.
Bill· HRH.R. 4263 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1977
Department of Energy Organization Act - Title I: Declaration of Purposes - Declares it the purpose of this Act to establish a permanent Department of Energy in the executive branch to assist in the development of a coordinated national energy policy. Title II: Establishment of Department - Establishes a Department of Energy in the executive branch. Establishes an Energy Information Administration and an Economic Regulatory Administration within such Department. Title III: Transfers of Functions - Transfers to the Secretary of Energy all functions now vested in the Federal Energy Administration, the Energy Research and Development Administration, and the Federal Power Commission. Transfers energy-related functions from the Department of the Interior to the new Secretary. Transfers specified functions of the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, the Interstate Commerce Commission, the Secretary of the Navy, and the Secretary of Commerce to the new Secretary. Title IV: Board of Hearings and Appeals - Establishes a three-member Board of Hearings and Appeals within the Department to make agency determinations as required by law. Prohibits persons having interests in energy companies from serving as Board members. Title V: Administrative Procedures and Judicial Review - Stipulates that the provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act shall apply to rules and regulations issued by the Secretary or his delegate. Requires that opportunity for oral presentations of viewpoints be afforded where regulations are likely to have a substantial economic impact. Requires hearings on rules which substantially impact on a single geographic area to be held in such geographic area. Stipulate that United States district courts shall have exclusive jurisdiction of cases arising under this Act without regard to amount in controversy, except where otherwise provided in authority transferred to the Secretary. Title VI: Administrative Provisions - Establishes a Leasing Liaison Committee to obtain information and make recommendations on Federal leasing activities conducted by the Secretary of the Interior which relate to energy resources. Requires officers and employees of the Department of Energy to disclose known financial interests in energy companies. Imposes criminal penalties for knowing violations of such disclosure requirements. Authorizes the Secretary to delegate authority to other officers, to create regional officers, and to establish advisory committees. Requires the Secretary to submit annual reports to the President for submission to the Congress. Title VII: Transitional Savings and Conforming Provisions - Stipulates that transfers of personnel as authorized by this Act shall not result in reduction in grade or unemployment for one year after enactment of this Act. Stipulates that orders, rules, and proceedings established or commenced under previous authority shall not be affected by the transfers under this Act. Amends the Federal Energy Administration Act, the Energy Reorganization Act, the Federal Power Act, the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act, the Energy Conservation Standards for New Buildings Act, the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935, the Rural Electrification Act of 1936, and other provisions of law to conform with the changes made by this Act. Title VIII: Effective Date and Interim Appointments - Stipulates that the provisions of this Act shall take effective no later than 120 days after the Secretary first takes office. Establishes procedures for interim appointments of officers prior to the effective date of this Act.
Law· SS. 826 (95th)open
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1977
Department of Energy Organization Act - Title I: Declaration of Purposes - Declares it the purpose of this Act to establish a permanent Department of Energy in the executive branch to assist in the development of a coordinated national energy policy. Title II: Establishment of Department - Establishes a Department of Energy in the executive branch. Establishes an Energy Information Administration and an Economic Regulatory Administration within such Department. Title III: Transfers of Functions - Transfers to the Secretary of Energy all functions now vested in the Federal Energy Administration, the Energy Research and Development Administration, and the Federal Power Commission. Transfers energy-related functions from the Department of the Interior to the new Secretary. Transfers specified functions of the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, the Interstate Commerce Commission, the Secretary of the Navy, and the Secretary of Commerce to the new Secretary. Title IV: Board of Hearings and Appeals - Establishes a three-member Board of Hearings and Appeals within the Department to make agency determinations as required by law. Prohibits persons having interests in energy companies from serving as Board members. Title V: Administrative Procedures and Judicial Review - Stipulates that the provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act shall apply to rules and regulations issued by the Secretary or a delegate. Requires that opportunity for oral presentations of viewpoints be afforded where regulations are likely to have a substantial economic impact. Requires hearings on rules which substantially impact a single geographic area to be held in such geographic area. Stipulates that United States district courts shall have exclusive jurisdiction of cases arising under this Act without regard to amount in controversy, except where otherwise provided in authority transferred to the Secretary. Title VI: Administrative Provisions - Establishes a Leasing Liaison Committee to obtain information and make recommendations on Federal leasing activities conducted by the Secretary of the Interior which relate to energy resources. Requires officers and employees of the Department of Energy to disclose known financial interests in energy companies. Imposes criminal penalties for knowing violations of such disclosure requirements. Authorizes the Secretary to delegate authority to other officers, to create regional officers, and to establish advisory committees. Requires the Secretary to submit annual reports to the President for submission to the Congress. Title VII: Transitional Savings and Conforming Provisions - Stipulates that transfers of personnel authorized by this Act shall not result in reduction in grade or unemployment for one year after enactment of this Act. Stipulates that orders, rules, and proceedings established or commenced under previous authority shall not be affected by the transfers under this Act. Amends the Federal Energy Administration Act, the Energy Reorganization Act, the Federal Power Act, the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act, the Energy Conservation Standard for New Buildings Act, the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935, the Rural Electrification Act of 1936, and other provisions of law to conform with the changes made by this Act. Title VIII: Effective Date and Interim Appointments - Stipulates that the provisions of this Act shall take effect no later than 120 days after the Secretary first takes office. Establishes procedures for interim appointments of officers prior to the effective date of this Act.
Bill· SS. 831 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1977
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow an individual an income tax credit for 20 percent of the expenses incurred by himself and his immediate family for home energy-reduction improvements. Limits the lifetime credit for any individual or family to $100.
Bill· HRH.R. 4225 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1977
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow individuals an income tax deduction for 50 percent of the expenses incurred for the installation of qualified solar energy equipment in any residence. Limits the amount deducted for with respect to any residence to: $1,000 for hot water equipment, $4,500 for space heating, and $9,000 for space cooling equipment. Requires that the equipment taken into account provide one of these uses, have a useful life of at least five years, meet the criteria established by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development under the Solar Heating and Cooling Demonstration Act, and be originally used by the taxpayer. Apportions the allowable credit among residential joint owners and tenant-stockholders.
Bill· HRH.R. 4217 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1977
Amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to authorize the Secretary of Agriculture to make and insure loans under such Act for the solar heating or cooling of residential structures on family farms.
Bill· HRH.R. 4222 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1977
Amends the Solar Heating and Cooling Demonstration Act of 1974 to direct the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration to establish programs for the development and demonstration of solar thermal conversion systems in greenhouses, crop-drying facilities, live-stock shelters, and other nonresidential agricultural structures. Requires that at least 50 such demonstration projects be operated on family farms, as such term is defined by the Secretary of Agriculture. Authorizes the appropriation of $10,000,000 over a three-year period for fiscal years 1977 through 1979 to carry out such program. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to conduct a study of the Nation's agricultural energy requirements to assist in the administration of the solar energy demonstration program authorized by this Act. Directs the Secretary to establish and maintain a central research information exchange center to disseminate information on agricultural applications of solar thermal conversion technology.
Bill· HRH.R. 4223 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1977
Amends the Solar Heating and Cooling Demonstration Act of 1974 to direct the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration to establish programs for the development and demonstration of solar thermal conversion systems in greenhouses, crop-drying facilities, live-stock shelters, and other nonresidential agricultural structures. Requires that at least 50 such demonstration projects be operated on family farms, as such term is defined by the Secretary of Agriculture. Authorizes the appropriation of $10,000,000 over a three-year period for fiscal years 1977 through 1979 to carry out such program. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to conduct a study of the Nation's agricultural energy requirements to assist in the administration of the solar energy demonstration program authorized by this Act. Directs the Secretary to establish and maintain a central research information exchange center to disseminate information on agricultural applications of solar thermal conversion technology.
Bill· HRH.R. 4218 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1977
Family Farm Energy Conversion Act - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to conduct a study of anaerobic digesters. Defines "anaerobic digester" as any combination of machines, devices, and structures whose combined functions include anaerobic digestion and are to receive, process, monitor, and control the input of organic waste to the anaerobic digester, to receive, process, monitor and control the output of products from anaerobic digestion, to store such products in a useful form and to recycle such products as may be required for efficient performance. Requires the Secretary to: (1) submit a report regarding the results of such study to the President and the Congress; (2) have printed and make available to the public a brief pamphlet describing no fewer than two models of anaerobic digesters which he considers efficient and safe for operation; (3) institute a pilot project to demonstrate the field performance of optimum anaerobic digesters in at least 100 farms throughout the United States; and (4) issue a report summarizing the results of such trials which shall be presented to the appropriate congressional committees and made available to the public. Authorizes the Secretary, if a pilot project has proved an anaerobic digester to be cost effective and safe, to make grants to farmers owning farms of 640 acres or less for the construction of such digesters. Directs the Director of the Agricultural Research Service to train Soil Conservation Service field personnel in the operation and maintenance of digester systems in order that such field personnel may more effectively assist farmers on their projects. Requires the Secretary to consult with the Administrator of the Small Business Administration at least every six months to determine whether the grant program under this Act is working to the benefit of the small business community. Authorizes appropriations of $8,000,000 for fiscal year 1979 for purposes of this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 4219 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1977
Establishes, under the National Housing Act, a guaranteed loan program for the acquisition and installation of solar energy heating and cooling systems in dwelling units. Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to pay to the lender the difference between five percent interest paid by the borrower and the interest rate charged on such loan.
Bill· HRH.R. 4192 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1977
Establishes as an independent agency of the executive branch the Solar Energy Loan Administration to provide financing to homeowners for the purchase of solar- powered residential heating and cooling equipment. Authorizes the Administrator of the Solar Energy Loan Administration to make loans, repayable at two percent interest, for the purchase and installation of such equipment. Requires that equipment meet such minimum standards as are developed under the Solar Heating and Cooling Demonstration Act. Authorizes up to $100,000,000 to be appropriated to provide an initial amount for the program under this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 4184 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1977
Establishes an Office of Inspector General within each of the Departments of Agriculture, Commerce, Housing and Urban Development, Interior, Labor, and Transportation, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the Energy Research and Development, General Services, National Aeronautics and Space, and Veterans' Administrations. Makes it the duty of such Offices to direct the auditing and investigation of the programs of the agency in which each such Office is established and to recommend policies to each respective agency to promote the efficiency and economy of and to prevent and detect fraud and abuse in the programs administered by each agency. Directs each such Office to coordinate the relationships between its agency and other Federal agencies, States, and local government agencies in carrying out its mission. Requires each such Office to keep Congress and the head of the respective agency fully informed concerning its activities and findings. Specifies the frequency and content of reports. Transfers to each Office specified existing audit and investigation offices within the appropriate agencies.
Bill· HRH.R. 4176 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1977
Electric Utilities Rate Reform Act - Directs State and local electric utility regulatory authorities to implement and maintain rate schedules which distribute costs to consumer classes in accordance with consumption patterns. Requires that rate schedules accurately reflect long-run incremental costs of service and that price differentials between consumer classes reflect actual document differentials in cost of service. Prohibits regulatory authorities from allowing recoupment of promotional and advertising expenses, unless such expenses finance efforts encouraging the consumption of electricity or the shifting of electricity consumption from peak load periods to off-peak load periods. Establishes standards to regulate monthly changes in rates by the use of fuel adjustment clauses. Establishes standards of determining the effective date of proposed changes in rates and schedules. Authorizes the Federal Power Commission to provide financial assistance to non-Federal regulatory authorities as necessary to meet additional costs incurred as a result of complying with provisions of this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 4178 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1977
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide for the accelerated amortization of coal conversion facilities over a 12-month period. Authorizes the President to enter into price guarantee contracts with any person operating or proposing to construct or operate such facilities in order to make them economically feasible and competitive with alternative fuels.
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 348 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1977
Amends rule X of the Rules of the House of Representatives to create a 37-member Select Committee on Energy. Directs the Speaker to refer first to the select committee all bills, resolutions and other matters relating to: (1) energy resources, regulation, conservation, and allocation; (2) energy power administration. Gives to the select committee sole jurisdiction over certain bills transmitted to Congress in accordance with the Energy Policy and Conservation Act. Directs that any bill, resolution or other matter reported from the select committee be treated as if it had been reported from a standing committee of the House.
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 347 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1977
Amends rule X of the Rules of the House of Representatives to create a 37-member Select Committee on Energy. Directs the Speaker to refer first to the select committee all bills, resolutions and other matters relating to: (1) energy resources, regulation, conservation, and allocation; (2) energy power administration. Gives to the select committee sole jurisdiction over certain bills transmitted to Congress in accordance with the Energy Policy and Conservation Act. Directs that any bill, resolution or other matter reported from the select committee be treated as if it had been reported from a standing committee of the House.
Bill· HRH.R. 4145 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 28 February 1977
Energy-Related Unemployment Compensation Act - Directs the Secretary of Labor to reimburse States for unemployment compensation paid to a member of a group of employees certified by the Secretary as having a significant number or proportion of members totally or partially unemployed, or threatened with such unemployment, primarily due to the inability of an employer to obtain an adequate supply of natural gas. Sets forth certification procedures and procedures and standards for review of determinations relative to State certification petitions.
Bill· HRH.R. 4156 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 28 February 1977
Requires that electric power in the southwestern power area be sold at agreed points of delivery and at uniform, nondiscriminatory rates. Stipulates that agreed points of delivery shall not be changed unilaterally by the Secretary of the Interior.
Bill· HRH.R. 4158 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 28 February 1977
Alaskan Petroleum and Natural Gas Nonexport Amendments - Amends the Mineral Leasing Act of 1920 to prohibit exports of domestically produced natural gas transported by pipeline over rights-of-way granted pursuant to such Act. Authorizes exceptions from such prohibition where required for convenience or increased efficiency of transportation. Imposes criminal penalties of up to $25,000 in fines and/or up to one years' imprisonment for knowing violation of the provisions of this Act. Increases maximum penalties for subsequent criminal offenses to three times the value of the exports involved or $50,000, whichever is greater and/or five years' imprisonment.
Bill· HRH.R. 4128 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 28 February 1977
Petroleum Marketing Practices Act - Title I: Franchise Protection - Prohibits a franchisor from terminating or failing to renew a franchise unless specified conditions exist. Enumerates the basis upon which a franchisor may terminate or fail to renew a franchise. Exempts trial franchises from the requirements of this Act. Requires that 90 days advance notice of termination or nonrenewal be made in writing and delivered to the franchisee. Directs the Administrator of the Federal Energy Administration to publish in the Federal Register a summary of this Act. Authorizes civil actions in a United States district court against any franchisor who violates any requirement of this Act. Title II: Octane Disclosure - Requires the Federal Trade Commission to: (1) establish testing procedures for the determination of the octane rating of automotive gasoline; (2) establish requirements applicable to refiners with respect to the testing of automotive gasoline; (3) establish a certification procedure applicable to the distribution of automotive gasoline; and (4) establish requirements applicable to retailers of gasoline with respect to display of the octane rating of automotive gasoline at the point of sale. Prohibits any person who distributes automotive gasoline from making representations respecting the octane rating of gasoline unless the gasoline has been tested in accordance with the procedures established by the Federal Trade Commission. Grants to the Commission the procedural, investigative, and enforcement powers necessary to make effective the rules required to be prescribed. Makes it an unfair or deceptive act or practice in or affecting commerce under the Federal Trade Commission Act to violate the rules prescribed by this Act. Authorizes judicial review of the rules prescribed under this Act. Title III: Prohibition on Certain Unfair Practices in the Marketing of Automotive Gasoline - Prohibits dual distribution marketers of automotive gasoline (defined in this Act as a person who markets automotive gasoline at both wholesale and retail) in or affecting commerce from establishing or maintaining retail prices which do not recover the cost of gasoline transferred to, or purchased by, retail outlets controlled by such marketer plus the cost of operating such retail outlets. Defines terms for purposes of this Title. Requires gasoline marketers to maintain books and records, consistent with sound accounting principles, prescribed by the Administrator of the Federal Energy Administration. Sets fines for violations of this Title and authorizes injunctions of illegal acts under specified circumstances.
Bill· SS. 821 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 February 1977
Agricultural Solar Energy Research, Development, and Demonstration Act -- Title I: Existing Programs -- Amends the Bankhead-Jones Act of 1935 to direct the Secretary of Agriculture to conduct and to stimulate research and development relating to uses of solar energy with respect to farm buildings, farm homes and farm machinery. Authorizes the appropriation of $25,000,000 each fiscal year to carry out such research and development. Includes the agricultural uses of solar energy in the agricultural extension programs. Directs that loans, under the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act, be made for the purchase of farm equipment which utilizes solar energy and for the acquisition and installation of any qualified solar energy thermal conversion system in any residential structure located on a family farm. Title II: Solar Demonstration Farms -- Establishes within the Department of Agriculture the Research and Demonstration Planning Committee which shall be responsible for compiling a list of solar energy research projects and for meeting with regional representatives of the State departments of agriculture to determine which projects will be useful and beneficial to the several States. Requires each State department of agriculture to establish one large model farm and within one year to establish not less than ten demonstrations of solar energy research projects using the most efficient or practicable research projects demonstrated on such model farm. Stipulates the terms of any agreement entered into between selected farmowners and the State departments of agriculture for the establishment of such demonstration projects. Authorizes the appropriation of $20,000,000 for the purposes of this Title, of which 80 percent is to be used by State departments of agriculture for the model farm and demonstration projects.
Bill· SS. 823 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 February 1977
Federal Buildings Energy Conservation and Solar Energy Utilization Act - Directs the Administrator of General Services to publish energy conservation and solar energy guidelines for use in the design, construction, renovation, and operation of Federal buildings and Federally-assisted buildings. Specifies factors to be considered in the development of such guidelines. Directs each Federal agency to comply with such guidelines and to require the preparation of an energy utilization analysis and an energy-economic analysis for each newly-constructed or renovated Federal building or federally-assisted building. Details factors to be considered in such analyses. Requires that such analyses be included in any prospectus submitted by Federal agencies to Congress with respect to the applicable building. Amends the Energy Conservation and Production Act to require certification by design architects and engineers of compliance with applicable performance standards as part of the procedures adopted by Federal agencies in connection with the construction of any Federal building. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to direct the Administrator of General Services to study all major Federal agency procurement from an energy conservation standpoint as part of the Federal energy conservation program under such Act. Directs each Federal agency to make reports to the Administrator on an annual basis on possible energy conservation improvements to be utilized in buildings under its jurisdiction. Requires such information to be coordinated and consolidated in a report to the Congress by the Administrator. Directs the President to submit an annual report to Congress on steps taken to implement the purposes of this Act. Authorizes grants for retrofitting of Federal, State, and municipal buildings with energy conservation equipment and systems in accordance with prescribed procedures. Authorizes the appropriation of $30,000,000 for the Federal program, $60,000,000 for the State program, and $60,000,000 for the municipal program.
Bill· SS. 820 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 February 1977
Agricultural Energy Demonstration Act - Establishes within the Department of Agriculture an Office of Agricultural Energy Demonstration which shall conduct, monitor, and annually report to Congress on an agricultural energy conservation and renewable energy demonstration program. Specifies the applications of energy conservation and of renewable energy technology to be demonstrated, including solar energy and geothermal resources, and specifies guidelines for the allocation of funds provided for such applications. Authorizes appropriations for such program in the amounts of $20,000,000 for fiscal year 1978 and $30,000,000 for fiscal year 1979.
Bill· SS. 805 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1977
Solar and Energy Conservation Commercialization Act - Amends the National Housing Act to specify additional types of solar energy systems eligible for financial assistance under such Act. Stipulates that such systems shall include solar heating and cooling and hot water systems, geothermal and wind energy systems, and other energy conservation measures and equipment such as insulation, heat pumps, and devices to improve furnace efficiency. Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to make grants and loans to individuals and families to assist in the purchase of solar, renewable source, and energy conservation measures and equipment. Authorizes grants and loans for similar purposes to neighborhood, community, or nonprofit groups. Amends the Small Business Act to authorize the Administrator of the Small Business Administration to make loans to small businesses to assist in the purchase and installation of solar, renewable source, and energy conservation improvements and equipment. Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, the Administrator of the Small Business Administration, and the Federal Energy Administrator to cooperate in carrying out the provisions of this Act and to jointly submit an annual report to the President and the Congress on activities carried out under this Act. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1978 through 1981.
Bill· SS. 806 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1977
Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation Tax Act - Allows an income tax credit for 30 percent of the expenditures not exceeding $750 which the taxpayer paid or incurred during the taxable year for the installation of insulation or energy-conserving components which improve heating plant efficiency in his principal residence. Limits the application of this credit to expenditures paid or incurred for installations made between 1976 and 1982 in pre-existing dwellings. Reduces the allowable credit, on a graduated scale, for individuals with adjusted gross incomes greater than $10,000. Allows an income tax credit for 40 percent of the first $1,500, and a secondary credit for 25 percent of the next $7,600 paid or incurred by the taxpayer during the taxable year for the installation of qualified solar, wind and geothermal energy equipment in his principal residence. Allows an income tax credit for 20 percent of the first $1,500, and a secondary credit for 12.5 percent of the next $7,600 paid or incurred for the installation of wood stove, heat pump, or burner equipment in connection with new solar, wind or geothermal energy equipment which will be the principal source of space heat in the taxpayer's principal residence. Reduces these limitations in subsequent tax years by subtracting the amounts taken into account for these credits in previous tax years. Limits these credits to equipment installed between 1976 and 1982. Prorates each of the above credits for residential improvements among joint owners and cooperative shareholders according to their proportionate interests in the residential property. Provides for the carryover of any allowable credit which exceeds the taxpayer's current income tax liability. Reduces the allowable credits, on a graduated scale, for persons with adjusted gross incomes greater than $15,000. Allows an investment tax credit for 25 percent of the qualified investment cost of depreciable geothermal, solar or wind energy equipment placed in service. Allows such a credit for 12 percent of the qualified costs of ventilation, heating, water and other components primarily designed to reduce the heat loss or gain of a structure, and originally used by the taxpayer. Prohibits these credits for property originally funded with Federal grants, or located in States which take these energy conserving measures into account for property assessment, or which do not enforce the thermal design requirements of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act.
Bill· SS. 808 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1977
Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to authorize the President to furnish energy production and conservation assistance to developing countries, including solar, wind, and water projects. Authorizes consultative visits by the Energy Research and Development Administration to design such projects. Authorizes the President to carry out studies to identify the energy needs, uses, and resources of various countries and regions, with special emphasis on the transfer of energy technology. Requires that $10,000,000 of appropriations for development assistance for fiscal year 1978 be spent only for such purposes.
Bill· SS. 804 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1977
Crude Oil and Natural Gas Information Act -- Directs the President to investigate the production, transportation, and sale of domestically-produced crude oil and natural gas. Requires that the study include an independent estimate of the production capacity of oil and gas fields and reservoirs. Authorizes the President to issue and enforce subpenas to obtain the information required for such investigation. Directs the President to report to the Congress on the results of the continuing investigation required by this Act within six months, and to submit reports annually thereafter.
Bill· SS. 807 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1977
Small Business Energy Research Incentives Act - Title I: Small Business Act Amendments - Authorizes the Small Business Administrator to make loans to assist any small business concern in financing plant construction and equipment acquisition for the production, installation, or maintenance of solar energy equipment or other energy conservation equipment. Permits the Administration to make grants to non-profit organizations for the provision of training seminars showing small business concerns methods for design, installation, and maintenance of solar energy equipment. Title II: Federal Nonnuclear Energy Research and Development Act of 1974 Amendments - Establishes within the Energy Research and Development Administration an Office of Invention and Innovation to evaluate proposals by any individual or small business concern for the development of an energy- related invention and to provide grants for the development of such invention.
Bill· SS. 800 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1977
Conservation and Solar Energy - Federal Buildings Act - Directs the Federal Energy Administrator to establish methods of determining the life cycle cost effectiveness for buildings, considering the life cycle fuel and energy requirements for such buildings. Requires that all Federal buildings be life cycle cost effective and that such determination serve as a basis for the awarding of contracts in the procurement and leasing of new Federal buildings. Directs the Administrator to promote the use of life cycle cost effective methods in all buildings. Directs the Administrator to establish energy performance targets for existing buildings which are compatible with new building performance standards developed by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. Requires all Federal agencies to conduct an energy audit of existing buildings within their jurisdiction. Requires that a specified percentage of the gross square footage of building space be selected by each agency for retrofitting with appropriate energy conservation measures.
Bill· SS. 795 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1977
Petroleum Industry Competition Act - Title I: Industry Competition - Makes it unlawful, five years after enactment of this Act: (1) for any major petroleum producer to own, or control any interest in any refinery, transportation, or marketing asset; (2) for any petroleum transporter to own or control any interest in any production, refinery, or marketing asset; (3) for any major refiner or major marketer to own or control any interest in any production or transportation asset; and (4) for any person who owns any refining, production, or marketing asset to transport any energy resource in which he has any interest by means of any transportation asset in which that person has an interest. Prohibits major refiners from acquiring additional marketing assets after January 1, 1977. Authorizes the Federal Trade Commission to grant exemptions from the requirements of this Act in cases of special necessity where the retention or use of any transportation asset will not injure competition. Directs the Federal Trade Commission to require each person covered under the provisions of this Act to submit within 18 months of enactment of this Act a plan for divestment of the prohibited assets. Directs the Commission to institute suits in special courts established by this Act for failure to comply with the provisions of this Act. Imposes civil penalties of up to $100,000 for an individual and $1,000,000 for a corporation for violations of the provisions of this Act. Imposes a civil penalty of not more than $100,000 for each violation of a lawful order of the Commission. Title II: Temporary Petroleum Industry Divestiture Court - Establishes a Temporary Petroleum Industry Divestiture Court with exclusive jurisdiction over all actions and suits brought under this Act. Stipulates that such court shall consist of three or more judges to be designated by the Chief Justice of the United States, and that the court shall be dissolved by order of the Chief Justice when its purposes have been accomplished. Establishes procedures for direct appeal from the decisions of the Court to the United States Supreme Court.
Bill· HRH.R. 4029 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1977
Allows, as a credit against the income tax, 25 percent of the expenditures paid for the installation of solar heating or cooling equipment in any building owned by the taxpayer and used as his residence. Limits the expenditures claimed by any taxpayer, for any building, to $8,000. Prorates the allowable credit among joint owners and tenant stockholders. Prohibits any increase in the structure's basis to the extent that this credit is claimed. Defines "solar heating and cooling equipment" as equipment meeting the criteria of the Solar Heating and Cooling Demonstration Act, with a useful life of at least three years, and which is originally used by the taxpayer. Allows, as a credit against the income tax, 30 percent of the expenditures paid for insulating the taxpayer's residence. Limits the expenditures claimed during this period to $750 for any individual or building. Prorates the allowable credit among joint owners and tenant stockholders. Prohibits any increase in the basis of such residence to the extent that this credit is taken. Allows an investment tax credit for expenditures paid or incurred for insulation and solar energy equipment installed in structures used for a trade or business or held for the production of income. Extends this investment credit to structures used as lodging facilities. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to draft additional criteria defining solar energy equipment for the purposes of the investment tax credit. Allows the amortization, over 60 months, of depreciable shale oil conversion, solar geothermal, and waste energy equipment.
Bill· HRH.R. 4079 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1977
Energy and Weather Emergency Adjustment Assistance Act - Title I: Adjustment Assistance for Workers - Entitles to adjustment assistance allowances of specified amounts each of a group of workers certified by the Administrator of the Federal Disaster Assistance Administration upon a determination that: (1) a significant number or proportion of the workers in the group or a subdivision have become totally or partially separated, (2) sales and or production of such firm have decreased absolutely, and (3) critical shortages of energy supplies or unusually severe weather conditions contributed importantly to such work separation and decline in sales and/or production. Provides additional Assistance allowances, including expenses of training programs and seeking new employment, to each of a group of workers qualified for adjustment allowances who are likely to become totally separated on a permanent basis. Title II: Adjustment to Firms - Entitles firms which are found by the Administrator, due to critical energy shortages or unusual weather conditions, to have ceased sales and/or production and totally or partially separated a significant portion or number of workers to (1) funds for repairing physical damage resulting from the adverse conditions and (2) if the firm is a small business and would not otherwise remain competitive, low-interest loans for operating expenses or (3) if the firm is not a small business, guarantees of loans not otherwise available and necessary to remain competitive. Title III: Adjustment Assistance for Communities - Entitles local governments which are found by the Administrator to have incurred extraordinary expenditures amounting to at least five percent of their operating budget or sustained an increase in unemployment within their jurisdiction of at least ten percent due to critical energy shortages or unusual weather conditions to (1) funds to reimburse the cost of repairing damaged public facilities and purchasing or renting emergency equipment and (2) low-interest loans if the adverse conditions result in a substantial revenue loss. Title IV: General Provisions - Authorizes the appropriation for fiscal years 1977 and 1978 of such sums as may be necessary to carry out this Act. Specifies the effective date of this Act and the duration of the administrator's authority under it.
Bill· HRH.R. 4056 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1977
Energy Transportation Security Act - Amends the Merchant Marine Act, 1936, to direct the Secretary of Commerce to assure that 20 percent of the gross tonnage of oil transported in bulk on ocean vessels for import into the United States shall be carried on privately owned United States-flag commercial vessels, provided that the Secretary finds that such United States vessels as are available will be adequate to carry such quantity. Raises the requirement to 25 percent after June 30, 1978, and to 30 percent after June 30, 1980. Requires the Secretary to make annual reports to the Congress and the President on the implementation of this Act. Exempts from the provisions of this Act refineries whose capacity is less than 30,000 barrels per day.
Bill· HRH.R. 4048 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1977
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow an individual income tax credit for 25 percent of the amounts paid or incurred for the purchase and installation of qualified insulative materials or heating equipment in the taxpayer's principal residence. Limits the credit to $375, or $750 in the case of a joint return. Stipulates that to be considered qualified such improvements must meet heat loss reduction or heating efficiency criteria to be established by the Secretary of the Treasury in accordance with standards developed and prescribed by the National Bureau of Standards.
Bill· HRH.R. 4013 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1977
Authorizes the appropriation of $60,000,000 for fiscal year 1978 for the advanced coal extraction technology program of the Bureau of Mines in the Department of the Interior.
Bill· HRH.R. 4039 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1977
National Energy and Conservation Corporation (AMPOWER) Act - Establishes a National Energy and Conservation Corporation (AMPOWER) to achieve specified goals, including: (1) the exploration, development, and production of public lands and tideland oil, natural gas, oil shale, and coal either independently or in partnership with private industry; and (2) the acceleration of creation and demonstration of specified technologies. Declares it the policy of Congress that production costs in excess of market prices should be funded through appropriations as a cost of national security. Stipulates that fuels produced by the Corporation shall be sold by competitive bid, with 50 percent of such production reserved for bids from publicly owned utilities and governmental entities. Specifies procedures and requirements governing the operation of the Corporation. Authorizes the Corporation to issue bonds not to exceed an aggregate of $30,000,000,000 outstanding at any one time. Authorizes the Corporation to institute condemnation proceedings to acquire easements or rights-of-way necessary to further the purposes of this Act. Imposes criminal penalties for persons who make false statements with an intent to defraud the Corporation. Imposes criminal penalties for conspiracy to defraud the Corporation. Directs the Corporation to consider environmental factors in decisions regarding the construction and siting of facilities under this Act. Requires public hearings on siting proposals by the Corporation. Authorizes the appropriation of $5,000,000,000, to carry out the provisions of this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 4035 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1977
Open Windows Act - Authorizes the Administrator of General Services to prescribe standards for the design, construction, and alteration of buildings as may be necessary to insure that windows in buildings constructed with Federal funds be designed so as to permit the manual opening and closing of windows. Authorizes modification or waives of such standards, upon application by the appropriate Government agency, where necessary.
Bill· HRH.R. 3985 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1977
Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation Act - Allows an income tax credit for 30 percent of the expenditures not exceeding $750 which the taxpayer paid or incurred during the taxable year for installation of insulation or energy-conserving components which improve heating plant efficiency in his principal residence. Limits the application of this credit to expenditures paid or incurred for installations made between 1976 and 1982 in pre-existing dwellings. Reduces the allowable credit, on a graduated scale, for individuals with adjusted gross incomes greater than $10,000. Allows an income tax credit for 40 percent of the first $1,500, and a secondary credit for 25 percent of the next $7,600 paid or incurred by the taxpayer during the taxable year for the installation of qualified solar, wind and geothermal energy equipment in his principal residence. Allows an income tax credit for 20 percent of the first $1,500, and a secondary credit for 12.5 percent of the next $7,600 paid or incurred for the installation of wood stove, heat pump, or burner equipment in connection with new solar, wind or geothermal energy equipment which will be the principal source of space heat in the taxpayer's principal residence. Reduces these limitations in subsequent tax years by subtracting the amounts taken into account for these credits in previous tax years. Limits these credits to equipment installed between 1976 and 1982. Prorates each of the above credits for residential improvements among joint owners and cooperative shareholders according to their proportionate interests in the residential property. Provides for the carryover of any allowable credit which exceeds the taxpayer's current income tax liability. Reduces the allowable credits, on a graduated scale for and Conservation Act. persons with adjusted gross incomes greater than $15,000. Allows an investment tax credit for 25 percent of the qualified investment cost of depreciable geothermal, solar or wind energy equipment placed in service. Allows such a credit for 12 percent of the qualified costs of ventilation, heating, water and other components primarily designed to reduce the heat loss or gain of a structure, and origin ally used by the taxpayer. Prohibits these credits for property originally funded with Federal grants, or located in States which take these energy conserving measures into account for property assessment, or which don't enforce the thermal design requirements of the Energy Policy
Bill· HRH.R. 3981 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1977
Solar and Energy Conservation Commercialization Act - Amends the National Housing Act to specify additional types of Solar energy systems eligible for financial assistance under such Act. Stipulates that such systems shall include solar heating and cooling and hot water systems, geothermal and wind energy systems, and other energy conservation measures and equipment such as insulation, heat pumps and devices to improve furnace efficiency. Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to make grants and loans to individuals and families to assist in the purchase of solar, renewable source, and energy conservation measures and equipment. Authorizes grants and loans for similar purposes to neighborhood, community, or nonprofit groups. Amends the Small Business Act to authorize the Administrator of the Small Business Administration to make loans to small businesses to assist in the purchase and installation of solar, renewable source, and energy conservation improvements and equipment. Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, the Administrator of the Small Business Administration, and the Federal Energy Administrator to cooperate in carrying out the provisions of this Act and to jointly submit an annual report to the President and the Congress on activities carried out under this Act. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1978 through 1981.
Bill· HRH.R. 3977 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1977
Energy Transportation Security Act - Amends the Merchant Marine Act, 1936, to direct the Secretary of Commerce to assure that 20 percent of the gross tonnage of oil transported in bulk on ocean vessels for import into the United States shall be carried on privately owned United States-flag commercial vessels, provided that the Secretary finds that such United States vessels as are available will be adequate to carry such quantity. Raises the requirement to 25 percent after June 30, 1978, and to 30 percent after June 30, 1980. Requires the Secretary to make annual reports to the Congress and the President on the implementation of this Act. Exempts from the provisions of this Act refineries whose capacity is less than 30,000 barrels per day.
Bill· HRH.R. 3984 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1977
Title I: Small Business Act Amendments - Empowers the Administrator of the Small Business Administration to make loans to assist any small business concern in financing plant construction and equipment acquisition for the production, installation, or maintenance of solar energy equipment or other energy conservation equipment. Permits the Administration to make grants to non-profit organizations for the establishment of training seminars that teach small business concerns methods for design, installation, and maintenance of solar energy equipment. Title II: Federal Nonnuclear Energy Research and Development Act of 1974 Amendments - Establishes within the Energy Research and Development Administration an Office of Invention and Innovation to evaluate proposals submitted by any individual or small business concern for the development of an energy-related invention and to provide grants for the development of such invention.
Bill· HRH.R. 3980 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1977
Amends the Federal Nonnuclear Energy Research and Development Act of 1974 to direct the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration to assist less developed countries in the development and utilization of unconventional, nonnuclear energy technologies. Authorizes the Administrator, in cooperation with the Agency for International Development, to conduct studies on the energy needs, uses, and resources in other countries. Stipulates that such studies should be designed to result in the establishment of an information system permitting transfers of unconventional, nonnuclear energy technologies to impoverished areas of the world. Requires that results of such studies and recommendations for cooperative projects be reported to Congress by July 1, 1978. Authorizes the appropriation of $5,000,000 to the Energy Research and Development Administration for fiscal year 1978 for such purposes.
Bill· HRH.R. 3982 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1977
Directs the Federal Energy Administrator to establish methods of determining the life cycle cost effectiveness for buildings, considering the life cycle fuel and energy requirements for such buildings. Requires that all Federal buildings be life cycle cost effective and that such determination serve as a basis for the awarding of contracts in the procurement and leasing of new Federal buildings. Directs the Administrator to promote the use of life cycle cost effective methods in all buildings. Directs the Administrator to establish energy performance targets for existing buildings which are compatible with new building performance standards developed by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. Requires all Federal agencies to conduct an energy audit of existing buildings within their jurisdiction. Requires that a specified percentage of the gross square footage of building space be selected by each agency for retrofitting with appropriate energy conservation measures.
Bill· HRH.R. 3968 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1977
Solar Energy and Resource Conservation Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow taxpayers limited, nonrefundable tax credits for installing primary solar energy equipment in their principal residences and places of business during the ten year period ending before 1987. Allows accelerated amortization of business solar installation. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury, and the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development in consultation with the Director of the National Bureau of Standards and the Administrators of the Federal Energy and the Energy Research and Development Administrations, to develop performance standards for qualified solar equipment which shall be promulgated by the Secretary of the Treasury for these credits. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury and the Administrator of the Federal Energy Administration to report annually to Congress on the use of solar energy technology in the United States, the energy savings realized thereby, and the utilization of the tax credits provided by this Act for solar energy. Allows individuals a limited, nonrefundable tax credit for the installation of insulation during the four year period before 1980 in principal residences existing before 1977.
Bill· HRH.R. 3978 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1977
Agricultural Solar Energy Research, Development, and Demonstration Act - Title I: Existing Programs - Amends the Bankhead-Jones Act of 1035 to direct the Secretary of Agriculture to conduct and to stimulate research and development relating to uses of solar energy with respect to farm buildings, farm homes and farm machinery. Authorizes the appropriation of $25,000,000 each fiscal year to carry out such research and development. Includes the agricultural uses of solar energy in the agricultural extension programs. Directs that loans, under the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act, be made for the purchase of farm equipment which utilizes solar energy and for the acquisition and installation of any qualified solar energy thermal conversion system in any residential structure located on a family farm. Title II: Solar Demonstration Farms - Establishes within the Department of Agriculture the Research and Demonstration Planning Committee which shall be responsible for compiling a list of solar energy research projects and for meeting with regional representatives of the State departments of agriculture to determine which projects will be useful and beneficial to the several States. Requires each State department of agriculture to establish one large model farm and within one year to establish not less than ten demonstrations of solar energy research projects using the most efficient or practicable research projects demonstrated on such model farm. Stipulates the terms of any agreement entered into between selected farmowners and the State departments of agriculture for the establishment of such demonstration projects. Authorizes the appropriation of $20,000,000 for the purposes of this title, of which 80 percent is to be used by State departments of agriculture for the model farm and demonstration projects.
Bill· HRH.R. 3983 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1977
Solar Energy Government Building Act - Title I: Solar Hot Water and Space Heating Program for Federal Buildings - Directs the Administrator of General Services to establish a solar hot water and space heating program designed to place solar hot water and space heating devices in 15,000 federally owned buildings within six fiscal years following the date of enactment of this Act. Directs the Administrator to annually survey Federal buildings to determine those most suitable for the installation of solar hot water and space heating devices considering geographic distribution and life-cycle cost evaluations in making such determination. Directs the Administrator to report annually to Congress on the status of the Program, including recommendations for future funding levels necessary to fully implement the six-year target set forth in this Act. Establishes an advisory Committee on the Solar Energy Government Building Program of specified Government executives to assist the Administrator in the establishment and conduct of the Program. Authorizes the appropriation of $100,000 for each of fiscal years 1978 through 1983 for the purpose of this title. Title II: Federal Photovoltaic Utilization Program - Establishes a Federal Photovoltaic Utilization Program for the annual acquisition and use of photovoltaic solar electric systems, primarily for use by the Department of Defense. Directs the Administrator of General Services to administer the program, with the assistance of the Secretary of Defense. Directs the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration of establish a photovoltaic system evaluation and purchase program to insure that such systems reflect the most advanced, low-cost technology. Authorizes the appropriation of $25,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1978 through 1982 for design and engineering aspects of the program. Authorizes the appropriation of $100,000,000 for photovoltaic system acquisition in fiscal year 1978.
Bill· HRH.R. 3979 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1977
Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to authorize the President to furnish energy production and conservation assistance to developing countries, including solar, wind, and water projects. Authorizes consultative visits by the Energy Research and Development Administration to design such projects. Authorizes the President to carry out studies to identify the energy needs, uses, and resources of various countries and regions, with special emphasis on the transfer of energy technology. Requires that $10,000,000 of appropriations for development assistance for fiscal year 1978 be spent only for these purposes.
Bill· HRH.R. 3966 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1977
Conservation Gas Act - Declares that the formulation and implementation of conservation gas programs are matters of local concern, subject to regulation by State utility regulatory commissions. Stipulates that the Federal Power Commission shall be without authority to alter conservation gas programs upon a certification to the Commission by the State agency that the State has assumed authority over such programs.
Bill· HRH.R. 3967 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1977
Natural Gas Act Amendments - Amends the Natural Gas Act to terminate Federal Power Commission authority to regulate sales of new natural gas in interstate commerce. Stipulates that prices for offshore sales of new natural gas shall not exceed the ceiling price for sales of new natural gas produced from onshore Federal lands. Stipulates that emergency sales of natural gas to curtailed customers who qualify as essential users shall not affect such exempt status. Authorizes the Commission to terminate such exemptions on or after April 15, 1978, if they are no longer deemed necessary to protect high priority consumers of natural gas. Directs the Federal Power Commission to conduct studies and make reports regarding the nature and availability of natural gas reserves. Requires that the Commission keep current information available relating to the estimated natural gas reserves for individual fields. Establishes procedures for the establishment of ceiling prices for new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands through December 31, 1982. Authorizes the Commission to grant exemptions to price ceilings within high-cost production areas. Establishes procedures for adjustments to price ceilings established pursuant to this Act. Directs the Commission to prohibit the curtailment of adequate supplies of natural gas for essential agricultural purposes. Directs the Commission to prohibit the use of natural gas as boiler fuel where adequate alternatives are available. Authorizes exemptions from such prohibition where necessary to comply with pollution control or environmental protection and safety standards.