Energy

A bill related to "Special Tar Sand" areas in Utah.

United States · United States Congress · 18 November 1983

Amends the Mineral Land Leasing Act of 1920 to permit the owner of an oil and gas lease, containing portions located both inside and outside a special tar sand area, to convert the entire lease to a combined hydrocarbon lease, provided that the portion located within the special tar sand area had been included in an application for conversion filed before November 17, 1983.

Federal Power Act Amendments of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 18 November 1983

Federal Power Act Amendments of 1983 - Amends the Federal Power Act to define the term "qualified exemption applicant" as any person, State, or municipality which: (1) meets the requirements of an application for exemption from the regulation of water power and resources development under such Act; and (2) has property interests necessary for the development of a proposed hydroelectric project, exclusive of any property interests necessary for a transmission right of way. Requires the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to give preference when issuing preliminary permits or licenses for hydroelectric projects to qualified exemption applicants and to applicants who have the necessary property interests for the development of a proposed hydroelectric project, in addition to States and municipalities which apply for such permits or licenses, except where the Commission decides that project development should be undertaken by the Government or where another permit or license applicant has substantially superior plans for such a project. Provides that when a licensee exercises the power of eminent domain, the amount of compensation to be paid by the licensee to the property owner shall be based on the highest and best use for which the property subject to condemnation may be put.

Consumer Products Energy Efficiency Amendments of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 18 November 1983

Consumer Products Energy Efficiency Amendments of 1983 - Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to provide that a labeling rule applicable to a consumer product covered under such Act shall require the disclosure, in any printed matter displayed or distributed at the time of sale of such product, of information which is required under such Act to be disclosed on the product's label or in advertising related to such product. Requires the Federal Trade Commission to require a manufacturer of a covered product to which a labeling rule applies to disclose in any of its advertisements the information which is required to be disclosed on the product's label. Requires that such disclosures be made in a manner likely to assist consumers in making purchasing decisions. Requires the Secretary of Energy to make available to consumers comparative guides of each type and class of covered products, indicating its energy efficiency and annual operating cost. Directs the Secretary to prescribe energy standards for water heaters, central air conditioners, and furnaces, which shall be no less than the median energy efficiency for each type of product for 1980 and which shall be based upon test procedures prescribed by the Secretary. Includes as factors to be considered by the Secretary in doing a cost-benefit analysis with respect to an energy efficiency standard: (1) the effect of such standard on the promotion of domestic production; and (2) the effect of such standard on the reduction of unemployment and the improvement of the economy. Requires that the Secretary's annual report on the energy conservation program for consumer products include information on the percentage of covered products which are imported and on the percentage of components of covered products which are imported. Authorizes the Secretary to prescribe energy efficiency standards for covered products if the Secretary determines, among other factors, that an improvement of 20 percent or more in the energy efficiency of the products is technologically feasible. (Under current law, it must be determined that a substantial improvement in the energy efficiency of a product is technologically feasible before the Secretary may prescribe such standards.) Revises the factors which the Secretary must consider in determining whether a performance-related feature of a covered product justifies the establishment of a higher or lower energy efficiency standard for such product. Requires the Secretary to prescribe a combined average energy efficiency standard for each of the types of covered products under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act. Provides that if the average energy efficiency of the total number of a type of covered product made by a manufacturer or marketed by a private labeler are determined to meet the combined average energy efficiency standard for such type, such manufacturer or labeler shall be treated as meeting the applicable energy efficiency standard for the 12-month period beginning with the date of such determination. Requires the Secretary to issue a guideline for improvement in the energy efficiency for a type of covered product for each of the following five years if no standard is prescribed for such product. Requires the Secretary to monitor such improvements and to prescribe an energy efficiency standard whenever a type of product fails, for three consecutive years, to achieve at least half of the improvement under such a guideline.

A concurrent resolution expressing the sense of the Congress that low-income individuals should receive assistance in paying bills for home heating.

United States · United States Congress · 18 November 1983

Expresses the sense of Congress that the public and private sectors should establish programs to assist low-income individuals in meeting heating fuel and weatherization costs.

A bill to amend the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to eliminate preemption of a States's authority to establish or enforce any energy efficiency standard or similar requirement if a Federal energy efficiency standard has not been established.

United States · United States Congress · 17 November 1983

Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to eliminate provisions which: (1) permit petitions to the Secretary of Energy for prescription of rules which supersede State energy efficiency standards; and (2) provide for supersedure of State energy efficiency standards prescribed after January 1, 1978.

A bill to encourage cogeneration activities by gas utility holding company systems.

United States · United States Congress · 17 November 1983

Permits a gas utility holding company registered under the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935 to invest in or acquire interests in cogeneration facilities.

Electric Consumers Protection Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 16 November 1983

Electric Consumers Protection Act of 1983 - Amends the Federal Power Act to require the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to issue a new license to an existing licensee for a hydroelectric project authorized under such Act if the United States does not, upon the expiration of the existing license, exercise its right to take over, maintain, and operate such licensee's project, unless the Commission determines that such licensee's project will not meet the licensing standards under such Act. Provides that if the Commission determines that such licensee's project does not meet such standards, the Commission is authorized to issue a new license to a new licensee which may cover the existing licensee's project provided that the new licensee pays just compensation determined by the Commission and enters into any contracts required under the Federal Power Act. (Under current law, the Commission is authorized to issue a new license to the original licensee or a new license to a new licensee if the United States does not exercise its rights with respect to an expired license.)

Magnetohydrodynamics Research, Development and Demonstration Policy Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 15 November 1983

Magnetohydrodynamics Research, Development and Demonstration Policy Act of 1983 - Requires the Secretary of Energy to conduct research and development which will clarify the scientific and technical issues that directly affect the development and commercial acceptance of magnetohydrodynamic technology (technology for the production of electricity from coal). Requires the Secretary to prepare a comprehensive program management plan for the magnetohydrodynamic research, development, and demonstration activities under this Act and to transmit such program to Congress. Directs the Secretary to enter into international cooperative agreements to conduct magnetohydrodynamic research and development. Requires the Secretary to offer to enter into an agreement with the owner of an existing coal-fired electric powerplant and other appropriate parties for a proof of concept demonstration of magnetohydrodynamic technology with respect to such powerplant. Provides that the parties to such agreement shall be selected on the basis of competitive bids. Requires the establishment of a Technical Review Panel for Magnetohydrodynamics which shall make recommendations to the Energy Research Advisory Board with respect to the magnetohydrodynamics research, development, and demonstration activities under this Act. Requires that the Panel's report be transmitted to the Secretary and Congress. Requires the Secretary to report to Congress annually on activities under this Act. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1984 through 1986.

Energy Information Administration Reports Reduction Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 November 1983

Energy Information Administration Reports Reduction Act - Amends the Energy Supply and Environmental Coordination Act of 1974 to repeal requirements that the Administrator of the Energy Information Administration promulgate rules requiring reports by persons engaged in the production, processing, refining, transportation by pipeline, or distribution of energy sources. Repeals the quarterly reporting requirements imposed on the Administrator with respect to energy imports, domestic energy reserves and production, refinery activities, and energy inventories as well as reporting requirements imposed by the Administrator on persons engaged in crude oil or natural gas production. Repeals the requirement under the Federal Energy Administration Act of 1974 that the Administrator maintain a file on U.S. exports of coal and refined petroleum products. Repeals requirements imposed upon the Energy Information Administration under the Department of Energy Organization Act for financial reports from major energy-producing companies and for annual reports to the Department of Energy. Repeals coal reserve disclosure requirements imposed on persons or governmental entities holding such reserves under the Powerplant and Industrial Fuel Use Act of 1978. Repeals the middle distillate monitoring program under the Emergency Conservation Act of 1979. Amends the Federal Energy Administration Act of 1974 to require that reports on energy supply and consumption done by the Administrator are less detailed than those required under current law.

Synthetic Fuels Corporation Amendments of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 9 November 1983

Synthetic Fuels Corporation Amendments of 1983 - Amends the Energy Security Act to authorize the U.S. Synthetic Fuels Corporation to make loans, loan and price guarantees, and purchase agreements and to enter into joint ventures for district heating or cooling projects. Authorizes the Corporation to make price support loans for municipal waste energy projects which produce and sell biomass energy. Requires the Corporation to solicit proposals and provide financial assistance for district heating or cooling projects and municipal waste energy projects. Requires that the synthetic fuel production strategy established by the Corporation address the types of district heating or cooling projects and municipal waste energy projects the Corporation intends to assist. Requires the Corporation's Board of Directors to assure that the Corporation is organized to evaluate, process, and review proposed and funded district heating or cooling projects and municipal waste energy projects.

A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 to allow the energy investment credit for equipment designed to use sail power on vessels to lower fuel costs.

United States · United States Congress · 9 November 1983

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow an energy investment tax credit for equipment designed to use sail power on vessels. Specifies that qualified equipment shall include: (1) masts; (2) standing and running rigging; (3) sails; (4) deck hardware related to hoisting, trimming, or otherwise controlling sails; and (5) rotor systems. Specifies that such credit shall apply to periods after December 31, 1984, and prior to January 1, 1990.

Natural Gas Market Adjustment Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 7 November 1983

Natural Gas Market Adjustment Act of 1983 - Amends the Natural Gas Policy Act of 1978 to permit a purchaser to reduce the required take under a take-or-pay contract clause to 50 percent for the three-year period following enactment of this Act. Requires 30 days notice from a purchaser to a seller in any case where the purchaser makes the election. Declares against public policy and unenforceable indefinite price escalator clauses. Defines such a clause as any contract provision which sets the price of natural gas by reference to prices for other commodities. Prohibits the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission from denying a cost passthrough to an interstate pipeline under a contract entered into or renegotiated after enactment on the grounds that the amounts paid were excessive due to fraud or abuse, if such amounts are prudent purchases. Defines "prudent purchases" to include amounts paid for natural gas which bear a reasonable relationship to the fair market value of the gas. Sets forth guidelines for determining fair market value.

A bill to require that local government emergency personnel be notified in advance of the shipment of high level nuclear waste through local government jurisdictions.

United States · United States Congress · 3 November 1983

Requires that local government emergency personnel (including police and firefighters) be notified at least 48 hours in advance of the shipment of high-level nuclear waste through local government jurisdictions.

A bill to exempt individuals currently employed as United States Department of Energy security inspectors from the physical fitness requirements promulgated by the Department of Energy in chapter IV of United States Department of Energy Order 5632 and from any other physical fitness requirements promulgated by the Department of Energy.

United States · United States Congress · 3 November 1983

Exempts individuals employed on or before the date of enactment of this Act as U.S. Department of Energy security inspectors from the physical fitness requirements promulgated by the Department of Energy for security inspectors, and from any other physical fitness requirements promulgated by the Secretary of Energy.

Natural Gas Market Policy Act of 1984

United States · United States Congress · 2 November 1983

Natural Gas Policy Adjustments Act of 1983 - Title I: National Gas Pipeline Accountability - Amends the Natural Gas Policy Act of 1978 to provide that for purposes of the denial by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) of the cost passthroughs to interstate pipelines, the term "abuse" includes misrepresentation, imprudence on the part of the pipeline, the pipeline's failure to bargain at arm's-length with any producer, and the entering into or operating pursuant to a contract by a pipeline with a producer or other seller if the contract materially prevents a response to changes in customer demand or other market forces. Permits any interested persons to request a hearing before the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) concerning a pipeline's request for a rate increase which reflects the cost of purchased gas. Prohibits an interstate pipeline from selling in interstate commerce during any month to an affiliate intrastate pipeline, Hinshaw pipeline, or local distribution company a greater percentage of the quantities of natural gas contractually available for sale during the month by the interstate pipeline to its affiliate than the percentage of contractually available lower average-priced natural gas which such affiliate buyer is purchasing during the same month from nonaffiliate interstate pipelines. Prohibits FERC from approving any rate or charge under the Natural Gas Act unless it determines that the rate design incorporated in such rate or charge fully places the pipeline at risk that it will not collect its allowed return on equity unless its purchasing and operating practices are designed to meet the demands of its market and prevent curtailment. Title II: Natural Gas Wellhead Pricing - Provides that following enactment of this Act, wellhead price controls shall not apply to any first sale of natural gas if the surface drilling of the well commenced on or after enactment. Eliminates price controls for the first sale of new enhancement natural gas. Defines "new enhancement natural gas" as natural gas produced as a result of production enhancement work. States that natural gas produced as a result of production enhancement work shall be: (1) the natural gas produced from the well involved after the completion of such work; less (2) the natural gas which would have been produced if such work were not performed. Defines "enhanced recovery production work" to mean work performed for one or more of the following purposes: (1) reentry into a well which has been plugged or reentry to drill deeper; (2) recompletion by reperforation of a zone from which natural gas has been produced or by perforation of a different zone; (3) repair; (4) installation of certain equipment; (5) workover operations to reduce excessive water or sand; (6) disposal or water or brine; (7) injection of inert gas; and (8) production enhancement if the enhancement technique will significantly increase production. Defines "unenhanced natural gas" as gas which is from the same well as new enhancement gas and which is not new enhancement gas. Requires the producer of new enhancement natural gas, before selling such gas, to provide any buyer of unenhanced gas 30 days' notice of the producer's intention to sell such new enhancement natural gas. Permits a producer to sell to any person at any price natural gas: (1) from a well the surface drilling of which began after enactment of this Act; (2) which meets applicable well spacing requirements; and (3) which is covered by a contract in effect as of enactment. Requires a seller, before any first sale of such gas, to give a buyer 30 days' notice of the seller's intention to sell such gas. Provides that maximum price provisions shall be inapplicable to the first sale of gas produced if: (1) the purchaser agrees; and (2) such production is necessary to prolong the productive life of a well. Repeals provisions: (1) allowing the reimposition of price controls; and (2) requiring a report from the Department of Energy concerning gas prices, supplies, and demand. Title III: Certain Contract Provisions - Provides that, for the three-year period following enactment of this Act, in the case of a covered contract containing a clause (commonly referred to as a take-or-pay clause) requiring the purchaser to take delivery of, or if not taken, to pay for, volumes of gas in excess of 50 percent of the contracted volume, the purchaser may elect not to accept delivery of any portion of the total volume exceeding 50 percent of the contracted volume without obligation to pay for volumes not taken pursuant to such election. Provides that a covered contract is one which: (1) is for the first sale of natural gas for resale; (2) is in effect as of enactment of this Act; and (3) has not been amended after enactment of this Act to exclude it from coverage. Permits the seller to terminate a contract with respect to amounts of natural gas not taken by the purchaser. Exempts released natural gas from maximum pricing limitations. Defines "released natural gas" as natural gas subject to a first sale contract for resale which the purchaser is not obligated to take (or pay for) by reason of: (1) the election described above; (2) the doctrine of force majeure; or (3) any law or contract provision which results in the purchaser taking or paying for 50 percent or less of the volume contracted to be taken (determined without regard to the preceding paragraph). Requires a seller, before any first sale of released natural gas, to give the buyer 30 days' notice of the seller's intention to sell such natural gas. Provides the buyer, within such period, with the option to buy the released gas. Revises the limitation on indefinite price escalators. Prohibits the price of any natural gas not subject to any maximum lawful price because of the elimination of price controls and which is sold under any contract for resale at a price established by an indefinite price escalator from exceeding the natural gas price indicator for the month of delivery. Defines the term "natural gas price indicator" to mean, with respect to any month, the determination under this paragraph of the volume weighted average price per million Btu's for deliveries to interstate pipelines, during the three-month period preceding the month prior to the month involved, of natural gas: (1) which is decontrolled natural gas sold under any first sale contract entered into during the twelve month period preceding the month involved; and (2) which was not previously subject to a first sale contract or, if so, the parties to the contract involved are not identical to those of the immediately preceding contract. Directs the Energy Information Administration to: (1) establish procedures for the collection of data regarding prices paid and volumes delivered under the contracts described above; and (2) determine the monthly natural gas price indicator. Provides that, any purchaser of natural gas from an interstate pipeline under a contract in effect as of the enactment of this Act, during the one year period beginning on the first day of the sixth month following enactment of this Act, may, without obligation to pay, exercise a right not to accept any portion of natural gas subject to such contract which would otherwise be deliverable on or after such election, provided the purchaser gives the seller at least 30 days' notice prior to the delivery date. Provides that after such right is exercised, the minimum commodity bill requirement applicable to any volumes of natural gas subject to such election shall be against public policy and unenforceable. Declares a minimum commodity bill requirement applicable to any sale of natural gas by any interstate pipeline to any purchaser to be against public policy and unenforceable if the requirement does not entitle a purchaser who makes a payment under such requirement to take delivery of the natural gas involved during such minimum period of time as FERC prescribes. Defines "minimum commodity bill requirement" to mean any contract or tariff requirement requiring payment for the minimum quantity of natural gas contracted for in the event the purchaser fails to take delivery. Title IV: Contract Carriage - Requires, as a general rule, a pipeline to transport natural gas at the request of a shipper, to the extent the pipeline has firm or interruptible available capacity, if: (1) the shipper submits a written request within a certain time period prior to transportation for the transportation of a certain amount of gas; and (2) the shipper agrees to compensate the pipeline in accordance with applicable tariff rates. Sets forth: (1) a special rule for intrastate pipelines; and (2) a method to determine available capacity. Requires a pipeline, whenever it does not have sufficient available capacity to satisfy both the transportation obligations undertaken pursuant to this paragraph and its other obligations, to allocate its capacity as prescribed by FERC. Sets forth requirements for such regulations. Sets forth provisions relating to: (1) contract carriage compensation; (2) the construction of new facilities by a pipeline upon request of a shipper; (3) the reduction of a pipeline's service obligation and a shipper's minimum bill obligation; (4) termination or reduction of contract carriage services; (5) the issuance of regulations by FERC; and (6) procedures for filing transportation requests, protesting a request, and hearings concerning a protest. Requires a pipeline to report to FERC every three months concerning: (1) its total capacity, current available capacity, and projected available capacity; (2) all transactions under this paragraph either requested or undertaken; and (3) the amount of gas actually used by its existing customers by month during the preceding five years. Requires: (1) each pipeline to file tariffs with FERC within 30 days of issuance of interim implementing regulations; (2) FERC to approve or modify the tariffs within 90 days; and (3) FERC to thereafter require the filing of and determine charges in such tariffs pursuant to procedures of its final regulations. Revises provisions relating to the authorization of sales and transportation. Authorizes FERC to authorize: (1) any interstate pipeline to transport natural gas on behalf of any person; and (2) any pipeline or local distribution company to sell natural gas to any pipeline or local distribution company. Revises provisions relating to assignments. Authorizes FERC to authorize a pipeline or local distribution company to assign, without compensation, to any other pipeline or local distribution company, all or any portion of the assignor's right to receive surplus natural gas at any first sale, upon such terms and conditions as FERC determines appropriate. Redefines the term "surplus natural gas" to mean with respect to any pipeline or local distribution company, any natural which exceeds the then current demands of such person for natural gas, as determind by FERC or the State regulatory agency. Declares a provision of any contract for sale (currently, first sale) of covered natural gas to be against public policy and unenforceable if such provision: (1) prohibits specified commingling of gas; (2) prohibits sales to any person subject to FERC's jurisdiction or prohibits transportation in interstate commerce; or (3) terminates any obligation under such contract as a result of such commingling, sale, or transportation. Provides that "natural gas covered by the Act" shall include for any contract natural gas the sale or transportation of which under the contract is not in interstate commerce because of provisions of this Act excluding (as a general rule) an intrastate pipeline or local distribution company from FERC's jurisdiction by reason of purchasing natural gas in a covered transaction. Defines a "covered transaction." Title V: Repeal of Certain Restrictions on Natural Gas and Petroleum Use and Pricing - Repeals restrictions under the Powerplant and Industrial Fuel Use Act of 1978 on the use of natural gas or petroleum in new facilities, existing major fuel-burning installation, certain boilers used for space heating, decorative outdoor lighting, and existing electric powerplants. Repeals the incremental pricing program of the Natural Gas Policy Act of 1978. Title VI: Imports - Prohibits the importation of natural gas (including liquefied natural gas) beginning 270 days following enactment of this Act, unless: (1) the price and terms of the contract applicable to such importation have been renegotiated by the exporting and importing authorities to be responsive to the current natural gas market; and (2) the renegotiated contract and tariff adjustment to reflect any cost savings achieved by the renegotiation have been filed with FERC. Exempts from such prohibition a natural gas company all of whose sales to customers other than affiliates are from a supply made up solely of imported liquefied natural gas. Permits the recovery of costs prudently incurred for the construction in the United States of any terminal for the importation of Algerian natural gas. Title VII: Miscellaneous Provisions - Limits FERC's jurisdiction with respect to the first sale of natural gas which is committed or dedicated as of the day before enactment of the Natural Gas Policy Act of 1978 and which is exempted from price controls.

A resolution providing for the consideration of the bill (H.R. 3244) to amend the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to eliminate preemption of a State's authority to establish or enforce any energy efficiency standard or similar requirement if a Federal energy efficiency standard has not been established.

United States · United States Congress · 2 November 1983

Sets forth the rule for the consideration of H.R. 3244 (State energy efficiency standards).

A concurrent resolution expressing the sense of the Congress that the President should form a National Commission on Natural Gas Policy to make recommendations to the Congress.

United States · United States Congress · 2 November 1983

Expresses the sense of the Congress that the President should form a National Commission on Natural Gas Policy to: (1) make recommendations on natural gas pricing reforms to ensure adequate natural gas supplies and fair prices; and (2) transmit such recommendations to the Congress. Requires such commission to be bipartisan and contain representatives of the natural gas industry and consumer groups.

Hoover Powerplant Act of 1984

United States · United States Congress · 1 November 1983

Title I - Federal Reclamation Hydroelectric Powerplants Authorization Act of 1983 - Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to construct, operate, and maintain the following hydroelectric powerplants: (1) the Whiskeytown powerplant in California; (2) the Yellowtail Afterbay powerplant in Montana; (3) the Red Bluff powerplant in California; (4) the Palisades powerplant enlargement in Idaho and Wyoming; (5) the Anderson Ranch powerplant in Idaho; (6) the Minidoka powerplant rehabilitation and enlargement in Idaho and Wyoming; and (7) the Guernsey powerplant enlargement in Wyoming. Authorizes the Secretary of Energy to construct, operate, and maintain transmission facilities for such powerplants and to purchase replacement capacity and energy in order to maintain contractual deliveries to customers during unit outages caused by powerplant construction. Directs the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Energy to minimize the loss of capacity and energy to power customers due to unit outages resulting from such powerplant construction. Directs the Secretary of Energy to maintain deliveries of capacity and energy at contract prices to customers affected by such unit outages. Requires that the hydroelectric power generated by such facilities be marketed through specified Federal hydroelectric power marketing systems. Authorizes appropriations beginning in FY 1985 to the Secretary of the Interior for construction, operation, and maintenance of the powerplants authorized under this Act and the cost of replacement capacity and energy. Authorizes appropriations beginning in FY 1985 to the Secretary of Energy for transmission facilities and the purchase of replacement capacity and energy. Title II - Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to increase the capacity of existing generating equipment at Hoover Powerplant (the uprating program) and to improve parking, visitor facilities, roads, and other facilities which will contribute to the safety and sufficiency of visitor access to Hoover Dam and Powerplant (the visitor facilities program). Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to construct a Colorado River bridge crossing immediately downstream from Hoover Dam in order to alleviate traffic congestion and reduce safety hazards. Amends the Colorado River Basin Project Act of 1968 to provide that non-Federal funds advanced for the Central Arizona Project and the Orme Dam and Reservoir project shall be credited to the Lower Colorado River Basin Development Fund and shall be available without further appropriation for such projects. Provides that the Lower Colorado River Basin Development Fund shall include all revenues collected in connection with the operation of facilities with respect to the Central Arizona Project and with respect to the Orme Dam and Reservoir until completion of repayment requirements of the Central Arizona Project. (Under current law, such fund shall include all such revenues including revenues which are determined to be surplus after the completion of the Central Arizona Project.) Requires the Secretary of Energy to provide for surplus revenues for the Boulder Canyon Project and for the Parker- Davis Project by increasing the rates charged to purchasers of electricity in Arizona, California, and Nevada. Provides that after the repayment period for the Central Arizona Project, the rates charged to such purchasers shall include an additional charge to provide revenues for repayment of costs in connection with the operation of Hoover Dam, certain salinity control units for the Colorado River, and certain water supply augmentation units for the Colorado River. Amends the Boulder Canyon Project Act of 1928 to eliminate the ceiling on the aggregate amount of advances which the Secretary of the Treasury may make to the Colorado River Dam fund to carry out such Act. Increases the ceiling on the authorization of appropriations to carry out such Act. Permits the adjustment of the funds required for the uprating program and the visitor facilities program at Hoover Dam and Powerplant. Amends the Boulder Canyon Project Adjustment Act of 1940 to make open-ended the period of time for which the Secretary of the Interior is directed to promulgate charges for electricity generated at Hoover Dam. Requires the Secretary of the Interior to promulgate charges for electricity generated at Hoover Dam to provide revenues for the Lower Colorado River Basin Development Fund. Includes in the operation costs for the Boulder Canyon project which may be paid for out of the Colorado River Dam Fund the purchase of supplemental energy to meet temporary deficiencies in firm energy which the Secretary of Energy is obligated by contract to supply. Provides that receipts from the Boulder Canyon Project which are placed in the Colorado River Dam Fund shall be available for transfer to the Lower Colorado River Basin Development Fund. Sets forth the interest rates for advances made for the uprating program and for the visitor facilities program at Hoover Dam and Powerplant. Requires the Secretary of Energy to offer: (1) a renewal contract for specified amounts of energy to each contractor for power generated at Hoover Dam; (2) contracts for capacity and associated energy resulting from the uprating program at Hoover Dam in the amounts specified in the General Consolidated Power Marketing Criteria or Regulations for Boulder City Area projects to purchasers in Arizona, Nevada, and California who are eligible to enter into such contracts pursuant to the Boulder Canyon Project Act; and (3) contracts for such energy as is available respectively to Arizona, Nevada, and California under such Criteria to the Arizona Power Authority, the Colorado River Commission of Nevada, and purchasers in California who are eligible to enter into such contracts pursuant to the Boulder Canyon Project Act. Sets forth requirements and restrictions with respect to such contracts. Provides that the uprating program may be undertaken with appropriated funds, funds advanced under contracts between the Secretary of the Interior and non-Federal purchasers of electricity from such program, or a combination thereof. Sets forth conditions under which claims with respect to this Act, the Boulder Canyon Project Act, or the Boulder Canyon Project Adjustment Act may be brought. Provides that reimbursement of funds appropriated for the construction of facilities at Hoover Dam and Powerplant under this title shall be a repayment requirement of the Boulder Canyon Project. Requires that electrical capacity and energy associated with the United States' interest in the Navajo generating station which is in excess of the pumping requirements of the Central Arizona Project and any needs for desalting and protective pumping facilities be marketed and exchanged by the Secretary of Energy. Requires that the marketing and exchange plan for the Navajo surplus optimize the availability of such surplus and provide financial assistance in the timely construction and repayment of construction costs of authorized features of the Central Arizona Project. Authorizes the establishment of rate components which shall be deposited in the Lower Colorado River Basin Development Fund and made available to implement such plan.

Energy Conservation Daylight Saving Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 31 October 1983

Energy Conservation Daylight Saving Act of 1983 - Amends the Uniform Time Act of 1966 to start daylight saving time the first Sunday in March rather than the last Sunday of April. Continues a State's right to preempt such time changes. Directs the Federal Communications Commission to make necessary adjustments in the operation of daytime standard amplitude modulation broadcast stations.

A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 to exempt certain sewage and solid waste disposal facilities that provide energy from the limitation on small bond issues.

United States · United States Congress · 25 October 1983

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to disregard capital expenditures made to construct sewage or solid waste disposal facilities or facilities for the furnishing of electric energy or gas in computing the ten million dollar limitation on tax-exempt (interest excluded from gross income) small issues of industrial development bonds.

A bill to extend the expiration date of Section 252 of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act.

United States · United States Congress · 21 October 1983

Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to extend until June 30, 1985: (1) the authority for oil companies to carry out voluntary agreements for implementing the allocation and information provisions of the international energy program; and (2) the antitrust exemption for oil companies participating in such program.

Oil and Gas Leasing Reform Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 21 October 1983

Oil and Gas Leasing Reform Act of 1983 - Amends the Mineral Leasing Act to revise provisions relating to the authority of the Secretary of the Interior to lease oil and gas lands. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to lease to the highest responsible qualified bidder, by competitive bidding, any lands subject to disposition under the Act which may contain oil or gas deposits. Prohibits the Secretary from granting a lease unless: (1) the prospective lessee has the financial and technical capacity to explore for, develop, and produce oil or gas; and (2) the prospective lessee states in writing that diligence standards, with respect to any previously issued lease, are being met. Provides that a lease shall: (1) be for an initial period of five years and as long thereafter as gas or oil is produced from the leased area in compliance with the diligence standards; (2) entitle the lessee to explore, develop, and produce oil and gas, conditioned upon compliance with diligence standards; and (3) be issued pursuant to requirements set forth in the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act relating to bidding and rent. Requires any lessee conducting exploration for, or development or production of, oil or gas to provide the Secretary access to all data and information obtained from such activity which the Secretary may request. Revises provisions relating to the authority to assign or sublease an oil or gas lease. Permits an assignment or sublease upon a determination by the Secretary that: (1) such assignment or sublease would increase exploration for, and development and production of, oil and gas; and (2) the prospective assignee or sublessee meets the diligence standards.

A bill to extend the expiration date of section 252 of the Energy and Conservation Act.

United States · United States Congress · 20 October 1983

Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to extend until June 30, 1985: (1) the authority for oil companies to carry out voluntary agreements for implementing the allocation and information provisions of the international energy program; and (2) the antitrust exemption for oil companies participating in such program.

National Coal Science, Technology, and Engineering Development Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 20 October 1983

National Coal Science, Technology, and Engineering Development Act of 1983 - Directs the Secretary of Energy to carry out a national coal science, technology, and engineering program which shall be administered by the Assistant Secretary for Fossil Energy. Provides that the program shall consist of three research and development programs: (1) the coal science research program; (2) the process science and engineering research program; and (3) the engineering development program. States that: (1) the purpose of the coal science research program shall be to conduct research, for all coal ranks, that seeks an indepth understanding of coal structure and process chemistry; and (2) the program shall be directed toward the understanding of how pollutant species are bound in the coal molecule and how such species can be efficiently and effectively removed. Provides that the coal science research program shall be carried out through the energy-technology centers, the national laboratories, the university community, and the private sector. States that the purpose of the process science and engineering research program shall be to conduct research, applicable to all coal ranks, in the following areas: (1) coal preparation; (2) specification fuels; (3) precombustion cleanup; (4) utilization processes; (5) instrumentation and control; and (6) supporting research and development. Provides that the process science and engineering research program shall be carried out through the energy technology centers, the national laboratories, the university community, and the private sector. States that the purpose of the engineering development program shall be to establish proof of concept and producing developed processes and coal systems at a scale large enough to permit ready commercialization by the private sector. Requires the program to be structured and implemented to achieve the following objectives within five years of enactment: (1) construct a fine coal preparation and cleaning process facility of no more than 500 tons per day; (2) retrofit an oil-fired boiler of at least 100 MWe using chemically cleaned coal; (3) retrofit an oil-fired boiler of at least 100MWe using a coal-water mixture; (4) demonstrate a combined SOX/NOX removal system of at least 50 MWe; (5) conduct a furnace retrofit of in-boiler nitrogen oxide-control technology of at least 50 MWe; (6) demonstrate an atmospheric fluidized bed combustion system of at least 100 MWe; (7) demonstrate a repowering application of a pressurized fluidized bed combustor of from 50 to 100 MWe; (8) demonstrate a repowering application of combined cycle coal gasification of from 50 to 100 MWe; (9) develop and test a coal-fueled gas turbine in a second generation combined-cycle system of at least 50 MWe; (10) develop and test an industrial-scale coal-fueled gas turbine suitable for industrial cogeneration of at least 5 MWe; (11) test a utility phosphoric acid fuel cell system using coal-derived gas at a size of 10 to 50 MWe; and (12) perform an integrated magnetohydrodynamics systems test including generator and downstream steam plant with a superconducting magnet. Requires the program to be structured and implemented so that there are sufficient incentives to attract private sector participation. Directs the Secretary of Energy, with the cooperation of the Assistant Secretary for Fossil Energy, to prepare a five-year national coal science, technology, and engineering development research plan. Requires the plan to be submitted by the Secretary to the President and the appropriate committees within six months of enactment. Directs the Secretary to submit reports to the President and the appropriate committees of Congress concerning the program and the five- year plan. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1985 through 1989 for the coal science research program, the process science and engineering program, and the engineering development program.

A bill entitled "The Clinch River Breeder Reactor Project Determination Act of 1983".

United States · United States Congress · 19 October 1983

Terminates the Clinch River breeder reactor project on January 1, 1984, unless by such date Congress approves a plan providing for the payment of one-half of all future costs of the project by nongovernmental entities without governmental guarantees or agreements to indemnify such entities against risks with respect to the project.

Helmuth A. Merklein, of Texas, to be an Assistant Secretary of Energy (International Affairs), vice Henry E. Thomas, IV, resigned.

United States · United States Senate · 18 October 1983

Weatherization Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 17 October 1983

Weatherization Act of 1983 - Amends the Energy Conservation in Existing Buildings Act of 1976 to eliminate the requirement that States applying for financial assistance under such Act establish plans and procedures for securing the services of volunteers, training participants, and public service employment workers. Limits the average expenditure, per dwelling unit, of labor and materials provided as weatherization assistance for all dwelling units in a State to $1,600. (Under current law, a maximum of $800 may be spent on weatherization materials and related matters for any dwelling unit, except that the Secretary of Energy may increase such limitation to $1,600 where necessary to pay labor costs.) Specifies deadlines for the submission of State applications for financial assistance and for the disbursement of funds. Provides that nothing in such Act shall be construed to limit the eligibility of low-income persons for assistance under such Act to elderly or handicapped low-income persons. Requires that States applying for financial assistance establish methods for giving priority in providing weatherization assistance to low-income individuals who are receiving assistance under the low-income energy assistance program. Permits the use of financial assistance made available to States for providing information, education, and technical assistance to residents of low-income dwellings in which weatherization materials have been installed. Requires the Secretary to establish a program to encourage the development of new methods to weatherize multifamily rental dwellings. Requires that such program include the funding of pilot projects based on the methods developed. Requires that funds authorized under the Energy Conservation in Existing Buildings Act of 1976 be used to carry out such program and to disseminate information on successful methods. Directs the Secretary to use at least two percent of the funds appropriated under such Act for each fiscal year to make grants to local weatherization agencies to carry out field testing of promising energy saving methods and materials. Includes as "weatherization materials" for purposes of such Act: (1) furnace efficiency modifications; and (2) energy conserving devices or technologies which a State determines have a high energy saving potential and will carry out the purposes of such Act. Provides that where a State so elects in its application for financial assistance, the term "low-income" shall mean that income which is at or below any poverty level established by any other Federal program being carried out in such State. Provides that States applying for financial assistance must: (1) submit a training plan for weatherization workers; (2) provide for inspections of weatherization materials and installation methods; (3) provide for the coordination of the weatherization assistance program and the low-income energy assistance program; (4) submit a plan outlining the goals and operation of the State weatherization program; and (5) insure that at least 50 percent of the units that are weatherized will be inspected and rectify any deficiencies found in the State weatherization program. Permits the use of funds made available to States under such Act for the training program for weatherization workers. Requires the Secretary to establish a system for monitoring State and local expenditures of financial assistance under such Act and to promulgate regulations governing uniform reporting by local agencies. Provides that procedures to be applied to determine the optimum set of cost-effective weatherization measures to be installed in a dwelling unit shall include any State procedures set forth in a State's application for financial assistance and approved by the Secretary. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1985 through 1987 for the weatherization assistance program. Requires the Secretary to establish a plan for the implementation of such program for FY 1985 through 1987. Requires the Secretary to report to Congress annually on the number of dwelling units weatherized under such program, the average energy savings per dwelling unit, the types of weatherization measures yielding especially high or low energy savings, and legislative changes to achieve program goals. Requires the Secretary to allot at least five percent and not more than 15 percent of the amounts authorized for each of FY 1985 through 1987 to a performance fund which shall provide financial assistance to those States which have demonstrated the best performance during the previous fiscal year in providing weatherization assistance.

A joint resolution to designate the week of October 23, 1983, through October 28, 1983, as "American Energy Awareness Week".

United States · United States Congress · 7 October 1983

Designates October 23 through October 29, 1983, as American Energy Awareness Week.

National Coal Science, Technology, and Engineering Development Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 6 October 1983

National Coal Science, Technology, and Engineering Development Act of 1983 - Directs the Secretary of Energy to carry out a national coal science, technology, and engineering program which shall be administered by the Assistant Secretary for Fossil Energy. Provides that the program shall consist of three research and development programs: (1) the coal science research program; (2) the process science and engineering research program; and (3) the engineering development program. States that: (1) the purpose of the coal science research program shall be to conduct research, for all coal ranks, that seeks an indepth understanding of coal structure and process chemistry; and (2) the program shall be directed toward the understanding of how pollutant species are bound in the coal molecule and how such species can be efficiently and effectively removed. Provides that the coal science research program shall be: (1) carried out through the energy-technology centers, the national laboratories, the university community, and the private sector; and (2) administered by the Assistant Secretary for Fossil Energy. States that the purpose of the process science and engineering research program shall be to conduct research, applicable to all coal ranks, in the following areas: (1) coal preparation; (2) specification fuels; (3) precombustion cleanup; (4) postcombustion cleanup; (5) utilization processes; (6) instrumentation and control; and (7) supporting research and development. Provides that the process science and engineering research program shall be: (1) carried out through the energy technology centers, the national laboratories, the university community, and the private sector; and (2) administered by the Assistant Secretary for Fossil Energy. States that the purpose of the engineering development program shall be to establish proof of concept and producing developed processes and coal systems at a scale large enough to permit ready commercialization by the private sector. Requires the program to be structured and implemented to achieve the following objectives within five years of enactment: (1) construct a fine coal preparation and cleaning process facility of no more than 500 tons per day; (2) retrofit an oil-fired boiler of at least 100 MWe using deeply cleaned coal; (3) demonstrate a regenerable flue gas desulfurization system of at least 50 MWe; (4) demonstrate a combined SOX/NOX removal system of at least 50 MWe; (5) conduct a furnace retrofit of in-boiler sulfur control technology of at least 50 MWe; (6) demonstrate an atmospheric fluidized bed combustion system of at least 100 MWe; (7) demonstrate a repowering application of a pressurized fluidized bed combustor of from 50 to 100 MWe; (8) demonstrate a repowering application of combined cycle coal gasification of from 50 to 100 MWe; (9) develop and test a coal-fueled gas turbine in a second generation combined-cycle system of at least 50 MWe; (10) develop and test an industrial-scale coal-fueled gas turbine suitable for industrial cogeneration of at least 5 MWe; and (11) test a utility phosphoric acid fuel cell system using coal-derived gas at a size of 10 to 50 MWe. Provides that the engineering development program shall be administered by the Assistant Secretary for Fossil Energy. Requires the program to be structured and implemented so that there are sufficient incentives to attract private sector participation. Directs the Secretary of Energy, with the cooperation of the Assistant Secretary for Fossil Energy, to prepare a five-year national coal science, technology, and engineering development research plan. Requires the plan to be submitted by the Secretary to the President and the appropriate committees of Congress within six months of enactment. Directs the Secretary to submit reports to the President and the appropriate committees of Congress concerning the program and the five-year plan. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1985 through 1989 for the coal science research program, the process science and engineering program, and the engineering development program.

Alternative Energy Tax Incentives Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 6 October 1983

Alternative Energy Tax Incentives Act of 1983 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend the residential energy income tax credit for renewable energy sources for five years from 1985 to 1990. Reduces the qualifying percentage for energy source expenditures by specified increments between 1985 and 1990. Increases from 15 percent to 20 percent the investment tax credit for solar, wind, geothermal, and ocean thermal property. Extends such tax credit for five years from 1985 to 1990. Extends the investment tax credit for hydroelectric generating property and biomass property for five years from 1985 to 1990. Reestablishes the credit for cogeneration property until 1990. Qualifies until 1995 affirmative commitments for solar, wind, geothermal, ocean thermal, biomass, and cogeneration projects begun by December 31, 1990. Eliminates the 20 percent limitation for oil and natural gas used in cogeneration facilities. Qualifies as biomass property methane-containing gas produced by anaerobic digestion from nonfossil waste materials. Revises the definition of geothermal deposit to lower the required temperature to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. (Present regulations require a temperature of 122 degrees Fahrenheit.) Includes shale oil property and tar sands equipment as energy property for purposes of the investment tax credit. Grants a 15 percent depletion allowance for tar sands. Allows an investment tax credit for photovoltaic energy property. Defines photovoltaic property.

Nuclear Waste Repository Absolute State Veto Act

United States · United States Congress · 6 October 1983

Nuclear Waste Repository Absolute State Veto Act - Amends the Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982 to eliminate congressional review of State or Indian tribe disapproval notices with respect to the designation of a site for a repository for high-level radioactive waste and spent nuclear fuel (thereby making such a site designation ineffective if any such notice of disapproval has been submitted by a State or Indian tribe to Congress). Authorizes the Secretary of Energy to enter into a tentative agreement for impact assistance with a State or Indian tribe at any time following the approval of a candidate site for such a repository in the State or on the tribe's reservation. Requires that such an agreement indicate the amount of assistance to be provided if a construction authorization for a repository is granted. Makes such an agreement binding upon the Secretary upon the granting of the construction authorization.

Synthetic Fuels Corporation Fiscal Accountability Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 5 October 1983

Synthetic Fuels Corporation Fiscal Accountability Act of 1983 - Amends the Energy Security Act to prohibit the U.S. Synthetic Fuels Corporation from making new awards of financial assistance after the date of the enactment of this Act and before the date on which the Corporation's comprehensive strategy for achieving the national synthetic fuel production goal is approved by Congress. Makes limitations on Corporation construction projects effective upon the enactment of this Act rather than upon approval of the comprehensive strategy as provided under current law.

A bill relating to the suspension of Trunkline LNG import authorization.

United States · United States Congress · 5 October 1983

Amends the Natural Gas Act to direct the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to suspend the authorization to import liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Algeria by Trunkline LNG Company. Authorizes the Commission to lift the suspension after 18 months if the Commission finds that the resumption of imports of this LNG will be consistent with the public interest.

A bill to amend the Natural Gas Policy Act of 1978 to prevent any acquisition of or merger with an interstate pipeline company unless the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission determines that such acquisition or merger is in the public interest.

United States · United States Congress · 5 October 1983

Amends the Natural Gas Policy Act of 1978 to prohibit any person, without first having secured authorization from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, from: (1) purchasing any equity security of an interstate pipeline, if after such purchase such person will have acquired, either directly or indirectly, beneficial ownership of more than five percent of a class of registered securities; or (2) merging with an interstate pipeline. Directs the Commission to authorize such purchase or merger if, after notice and opportunity for a hearing, the Commission determines that it is consistent with the public interest.

Alternative Energy Tax Incentives Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 4 October 1983

Alternative Energy Tax Incentives Act of 1983 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend the residential energy income tax credit for renewable energy sources for five years from 1985 to 1990. Reduces the qualifying percentage for energy source expenditures by specified increments between 1985 and 1990. Increases from 15 percent to 20 percent the investment tax credit for solar, wind, geothermal, and ocean thermal property. Extends such tax credit for five years from 1985 to 1990. Extends the investment tax credit for hydroelectric generating property and biomass property for five years from 1985 to 1990. Reestablishes the credit for cogeneration property until 1990. Qualifies until 1995 affirmative commitments for solar, wind, geothermal, ocean thermal, biomass, and cogeneration projects begun by December 31, 1990. Eliminates the 20 percent limitation for oil and natural gas used in cogeneration facilities. Qualifies as biomass property methane- containing gas produced by anaerobic digestion from nonfossil waste materials. Revises the definition of geothermal deposit to lower the required temperature to 104 degrees Fahrenheit (from 122 degrees Fahrenheit). Includes shale oil property and tar sands equipment as energy property for purposes of the investment tax credit.

Raymond J. O'Connor, of New York, to be a Member of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission for a term expiring October 20, 1987, vice Charles M. Butler, III, term expiring.

United States · United States Senate · 3 October 1983

A bill to amend the United States Synthetic Fuels Corporation Act to support synthetic fuel research and development.

United States · United States Congress · 30 September 1983

Amends the United States Synthetic Fuels Corporation Act to require that preference in selecting proposals for synthetic fuels projects for financial assistance be given to proposals for synthetic fuel research and development which represent the least commitment of financial assistance by the U.S. Synthetic Fuels Corporation and the lowest unit production cost within a given technological process.

Energy Community Self-Help Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 1983

Energy Community Self-Help Act of 1983 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow an income tax deduction for the prepayment of certain State or local taxes if such payment qualifies as an energy impact assistance expenditure. Defines "energy impact assistance expenditure" as any expenditure or contribution which: (1) represents a State or local tax, fee, rent, or royalty; (2) is required or permitted under State or local law to be prepaid in a year prior to the taxable year to which it is allocable; and (3) is to be used by the State or local government to meet needs incidental to population growth arising out of the operation of major energy and resource development activities. Allows an income tax deduction for contributions of payments of cash or property to a State or local government to be used to provide certain public facilities and services as a result of population growth arising out of the operation of major energy resource development activities.

A bill relating to the suspension of trunkline LNG import authorization

United States · United States Congress · 23 September 1983

Amends the Natural Gas Act to direct the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to suspend the authorization to import liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Algeria by Trunkline LNG Company. Authorizes the Commission to lift the suspension after 18 months if the Commission finds that the resumption of imports of this LNG will be consistent with the public interest.

A bill to amend the Energy Security Act and the National Energy Conservation Policy Act to repeal the statutory authorities administered by the Residential Energy Conservation Service and the Commercial and Apartment Conservation Service.

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 1983

Repeals the program providing for residential energy conservation plans for public utilities and home heating suppliers and the energy conservation program for commercial buildings and multifamily dwellings under the National Energy Conservation Policy Act.

Strategic Petroleum Reserve Reliability Improvement Act

United States · United States Congress · 13 September 1983

Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to direct the Secretary of Energy to engage in drawdown and distribution of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve in order to test the Distribution Plan and its implementation. Requires such drawdown and distribution to occur at least once before September 30, 1985, and periodically thereafter.

Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act Amendments of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 12 September 1983

Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act Amendments of 1983 - Amends the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to revise provisions of the Outer Continental Shelf leasing program. Requires the location of such leasing activity to be specified on the basis of individual geological basins on the Outer Continental Shelf in such manner as will provide definitive notice of the areas to be affected by each activity under such schedule. Directs the Secretary of the Interior, for purposes of determining the size, timing, and location of leasing activity, to propose for leasing activity the most promising geologic structures within individual geologic basins. Permits, following such proposal: (1) potential oil and gas producers, to nominate tracts within the most promising geologic structures; and (2) States, local governments, and interested groups and individuals to submit comments and recommendations on such nominations to the Secretary. Directs the Secretary, after consideration of such nominations, comments, and recommendations to establish the schedule for exploration, development, and production. Permits only those tracts receiving a high level of industry nominations and no negative State recommendations to be included on the schedule. Requires an equitable sharing of developmental benefits and environmental risks associated with exploration, development, and production of oil and gas within each geologic basin, including the developmental benefits and environmental risks for persons within any portion of the affected coastal area, (currently, requires an equitable sharing of developmental benefits and environmental risks among various regions). Directs the Secretary, in considering the relative environmental sensitivity and marine productivity of areas off the Outer Continental Shelf, to consider all direct and indirect chronic and cumulative effects of exploration and development on the unique values and habitats associated with each area as well as the effects of major sudden oil spills on such values and habitats. Provides that for all leasing following enactment, the timing of such leasing shall not take into consideration prior leasing activities in the geological basin concerned. Directs the Secretary to select the timing and location of leasing so as to develop the potential oil and gas resources without substantial environmental damage or adverse effects on the coastal zone. Authorizes the Secretary to reject in whole or in part or modify a specific request or recommendation of the Governor of an affected State if the national interest outweighs the factors on which such request or recommendation was based. Directs the Secretary to report to Congress whenever proposing to offer any area for lease under the Outer Continental Shelf leasing program. Requires such report to be submitted at the beginning of the first session of Congress following the Secretary's proposal to offer the area for lease, and prohibits any such area from being offered for lease until the expiration of that session of Congress. Provides that the Secretary's determination as to whether or not an affected State's recommendations provide for a reasonable balance between national interests and the States' interests shall not, alone, be a basis to invalidate a proposed lease sale or development and production plan in any suit or judicial review, unless the determination is not supported by substantial evidence, (currently, unless arbitrary and capricious).

Coal Pipeline Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 12 September 1983

Coal Pipeline Act of 1983 - Prohibits the United States or any other individual or entity from reserving, using, or claiming water in any State for a pipeline unless such action takes place pursuant to State law. Prohibits this Act from affecting the water rights of any Indian or Indian tribe. Prohibits a State from restricting the importation or movement through the State of water acquired within another State and within a coal pipeline. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to grant or renew rights-of-way over, under, upon, or through any Federal lands for the construction, operation, maintenance, or extension of coal pipelines, if the person seeking the right-of-way has been issued a certification issued under provisions of this Act. Prohibits granting a right-of-way over, under, upon, or through any Federal land which is part of an historic site or a unit of the national wildlife refuge system, unless there is no feasible alternative and planning is made to minimize damage to the site or refuge. Requires a rights-of-way granted or renewed under this Act to be granted or renewed in accordance with the requirements of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976. Prohibits the provisions of this Act from affecting an existing or pending right-of-way, except that if a certification has been issued, any renewal or extension may only be made pursuant to this Act. Authorizes the Secretary and the Commission to each issue regulations as necessary to carry out this Act. Authorizes acquisition of rights-of-way with respect to private lands by eminent domain if there has been a certification, except with respect to historic sites unless there is no feasible alternative. Permits a person who has, under applicable State law, filed and secured approval of a water permit, or obtained appropriate authority to use water, necessary to operate a pipeline or extension to apply to the Secretary and the Interstate Commerce Commission for issuance of a certificate to construct, operate, and maintain the pipeline or extension. Directs the Commission to make determinations concerning: (1) whether or not the applicant is willing and able to construct, operate, and maintain the proposed pipeline or extension; (2) whether or not the pipeline or extension is required for the public convenience and necessity; (3) the route of the pipeline or extension; (4) the capacity of the pipeline or extension; (5) any set aside for small and independent coal producers; and (6) any terms and conditions relating to the recommendations. Directs the Commission, in making a determination, to consider: (1) evidence of public support; (2) the extent to which the proposed pipeline or extension would have an economic impact on any other common carrier or would affect the services of any other common carrier; and (3) the applicant's planned use of minority employees and minority-owned enterprises in the pipeline project. Directs the Commission to make a determination that the applicant shall set aside and use for the transportation of coal from small and independent coal producers, for the purpose of protecting such producers, the lesser of: (1) ten percent of the pipeline's capacity; or (2) that portion of pipeline capacity that satisfies the demands of the small and independent producers. Prohibits the issuance of a certificate if the Commission fails to find that the applicant is fit, willing, and able or that the proposed pipeline or extension is or will be required by the future public convenience and necessity. Directs the Secretary to make determinations concerning: (1) whether or not the pipeline or extension is in the national interest; and (2) any terms and conditions relating to such recommendation. Directs the Secretary in making the determination to consider the extent to which a pipeline would: (1) help meet national needs; (2) enhance competition and provide new market outlets and opportunities; (3) contribute to national security; and (4) affect the environment. Prohibits the issuance of a certificate if the Secretary fails to find that the construction, operation, and maintenance of the pipeline or extension is in the national interest. Directs the Attorney General to conduct an antitrust review to determine the effects on competition of an application's approval. Prohibits approval of an application if the Attorney General determines that it would not be consistent with the antitrust laws. Requires an application to be filed with the Secretary and the Commission, to be under oath, and to contain: (1) a plan for the construction, operation, maintenance, and routing of the pipeline or extension; (2) the proposed capacity of the pipeline or extension; (3) the size of the right-of-way necessary to construct, operate, and maintain the pipeline or extension; (4) such other information as the Secretary or the Commission may require; and (5) a certification by the applicant that a copy of the application has been served on interested persons and on the chief executive officer of each State through which the pipeline or extension passes. Requires each applicant for a certificate to reimburse the Secretary and the Commission for the administrative and other costs incurred by the Secretary and the Commission in processing the application. Directs the Commission and the Secretary to exchange copies of their determinations. Directs the Commission to issue a certificate if the Secretary and Commission agree on issuance. Directs the Secretary and the Commission to notify the President if they disagree on either the terms and conditions to be included in a certificate or whether or not a certificate should be issued. Directs the President, in cases of disagreement, to make the final determination. Prohibits the issuance of a certificate unless an environmental impact statement is prepared. Prohibits anything in this Act from preventing any person or governmental entity from using the power of eminent domain to acquire any portion of a right-of- way acquired under this Act in any case in which the use of the right-of-way by such person or entity is consistent with the operation and maintenance of the pipeline. Requires pipelines: (1) to be underground to the maximum extent possible; and (2) to be installed in a manner which minimizes interference with agricultural drainage systems. Authorizes the Attorney General, at the request of the Secretary or the Commission, to institute a civil action for a restraining order or injunction to enforce any provision of this Act. Sets forth civil and criminal penalties for violations of this Act. Amends the Interstate Commerce Act to add a new subchapter relating to coal pipeline carriers. Permits any coal pipeline carrier to elect to use all or any part of the pipeline's capacity to provide coal pipeline transportation under contracts. Prohibits any carrier from unreasonably discriminating against any shipper ready, willing, and able to enter into a contract. Requires: (1) an election to be filed with the Commission; and (2) publication of a notice of intention to file such an election for at least four consecutive weeks in each county through which the pipeline passes or is proposed to pass. Permits a shipper, not later than 60 days after the filing of an election, to request a carrier to transport a specific volume of coal. Directs the Commission to determine the volume of coal which the carrier shall be obligated to transport. Permits a pipeline to enter into other contracts with shippers of coal to provide specific services under specified rates and conditions in any case in which a pipeline has satisfied its obligations, and in any case in which a prior contract expires. Requires pipelines filing an election to enter into contracts to transport coal only as provided in this subchapter. Requires all such contracts: (1) to be filed with the Commission; and (2) to be approved by the Commission before becoming effective. Provides for the review of any contract on the motion of the Commission, the Tennessee Valley Authority, a shipper, or a State agency which has ratemaking authority with respect to the sale of electric power. Provides that any pipeline capacity not subject to an approved contract, an order of the Commission, or a set aside for small and independent producers shall be used to provide for the transportation of coal as a common carrier. Sets forth definitions of terms used in the subchapter. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to issue regulations establishing uniform Federal standards for the safe design, installation, inspection, construction, extension, operation, and maintenance of a coal pipeline or extension. Exempts existing pipelines and those under construction from such standards. Authorizes waivers of such standards if pipelines safety is not jeopardized. Sets forth civil and criminal penalties with respect to violations of such regulations. Prohibits a purchaser, consumer, or user of coal (which is to be transported through a pipeline for which a certificate has been issued) from requiring a customer to pay a fee, surcharge, tariff, or other payment relating to the cost of construction of the pipeline at any time prior to the commencement of operation of the pipeline. Requires all articles, materials, and supplies used in the construction and maintenance of a coal pipeline to be made in the United States from U.S. materials, subject to certain exceptions. States that this Act shall not be construed to diminish, preempt, or modify the ratemaking authority of any State utility regulatory agency.

Outer Continental Shelf Lands Amendments Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 12 September 1983

Outer Continental Shelf Lands Amendments Act of 1983 - Title I: Findings and Purposes Concerning Management of Outer Continental Shelf Lands Resources - Sets forth findings and purposes of this Act. Title II: Amendments to the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act - Amends the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to revise provisions of the Outer Continenal Shelf leasing program. Requires the location, timing, and size of such leasing activity to be specified on the basis of individual geological basins on the Outer Continental Shelf in such manner as will provide definitive notice of the areas to be affected by each activity under such schedule. Directs the Secretary of the Interior, for purposes of determining the size, timing, and location of leasing activity, to propose or seek actively oil- and gas-bearing areas within individual geologic basins. Permits potential oil and gas producers to nominate tracts within such areas and States, local governments, and interested groups and individuals to submit comments, recommendations, and negative and positive nominations to the Secretary. Directs the Secretary, after consideration of such nominations, comments, and recommendations, to establish the schedule for exploration, development, and production. Permits only those tracts receiving a high level of industry nominations and no negative State recomendations to be included on the schedule, unless the Secretary rejects the recommendation. Requires an equitable sharing of developmental benefits and environmental risks associated with exploration, development, and production of oil and gas within each geologic basin, including the developmental benefits and socioeconomic risks for persons, local governments, or States within any portion of the affected coastal area. (Currently, an equitable sharing of developmental benefits and environmental risks among various regions is required.) Directs the Secretary, in considering the relative environmental sensitivity and marine productivity of areas of the Outer Continental Shelf, to consider both the particular and cumulative environmental and socioeconomic effects of exploration and development. Provides that in the case of all leasing following enactment of this Act, for purposes of the timing, location, and extent of such leasing, prior leasing activities in the geological basins concerned shall not be considered. Directs the Secretary to select the timing, extent, and location of leasing so as to minimize to the greatest extent possible the risk of environmental damage or adverse effects on the coastal zone. Authorizes the Secretary to reject a specific recommendation of the Governor of an affected State only if the recommendation does not provide for a reasonable balance between the national interest and the well-being of the citizens of the affected State. Requires the Secretary to show compelling reasons for rejecting the Governor's recommendations. Provides that the Secretary's determination as to whether or not an affected State's recommendations provide for a reasonable balance between national interests and the State's interests shall not, alone, be a basis to invalidate a proposed lease sale or development and production plan in any suit or judicial review, unless the determination is not supported by substantial evidence. Provides that in all oil and gas bearing areas not offered for lease sale before 1978, no tract in such areas may be offered for lease sale for three years after the first lease sale in such area except in the Alaskan oil and gas bearing area, where there shall be no tract offered for lease sale for five years after the first lease sale in the area concerned. Revises provisions relating to the use of the best available and safest economically feasible technologies for drilling and production operations to require the use of the best and safest technologies. (Currently, the best and safest technologies are required if they are determined to be economically possible.) Requires the research elements of the national earthquake hazards reduction program, established by the Earthquake Hazards Reduction Act of 1977, to include studies of the seismic activity on Outer Continental Shelf development. Title III: Moratorium on Oil and Gas Leasing On Outer Continental Shelf Lands - Prohibits the issuance of any of any oil and gas lease on any submerged lands located: (1) within specified geographical areas off the coastline of California and Massachusetts until January 1, 2000; and (2) within certain other specified geographical areas off the coastline of Massachusetts until January 1, 1990. Prohibits the issuance of any license or permit or the approval of any exploration plan or any development and production plan until January 1, 2000, which: (1) affects or provides for any activity affecting the geographical area described in clause one above; and (2) involves drilling for oil and gas. States that the above prohibitions shall not affect the authority of the Secretary to approve any plan or to grant any permit allowing scientific exploration or other activities.

Richard H. Francis, of Virginia, to be President of the Solar Energy and Energy Conservation Bank, vice Joseph S. Bracewell.

United States · United States Senate · 31 August 1983

A bill to extend the lease terms of Federal oil and gas lease numbered U-39711.

United States · United States Congress · 4 August 1983

Extends the lease terms of a certain numbered U.S. oil and gas lease.

A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 to provide energy tax credits for equipment used aboard or installed on fishing vessels.

United States · United States Congress · 4 August 1983

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide an energy investment tax credit for certain equipment which reduces fuel consumption and is used aboard or installed on a fishing vessel.

A bill to authorize the Secretary of Energy to accept certain lands in St. Louis, Missouri to provide remedial action with respect to radioactive materials.

United States · United States Congress · 4 August 1983

Authorizes the Secretary of Energy to accept transfer of all right, title and interest in: (1) the former Atomic Energy Commission storage site near the St. Louis Airport in St. Louis, Missouri and the radioactive materials stored there; and (2) the radioactive materials stored at a specified site in Hazelwood, Missouri. Directs the Secretary of Energy to undertake such remedial action as necessary to protect public health and safety with respect to radioactive materials which are located at such sites. Prohibits removal of radioactive materials from the Hazelwood site and commencement of remedial action before a final environmental impact statement on such actions is prepared.

A bill to authorize appropriations for exploration, prospecting, conservation, development, use, and operation of the naval petroleum reserves, for fiscal years 1984 and 1985.

United States · United States Congress · 4 August 1983

Authorizes appropriations to the Department of Energy for FY 1984 and 1985 for the exploration and development of specified naval petroleum reserves.

Solar Energy National Security and Employment Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 4 August 1983

Solar Energy National Security and Employment Act of 1983 - Amends the Solar Energy and Energy Conservation Act of 1980 to extend the life of the Solar Energy and Energy Conservation Bank until September 30, 1990. (Under current law, the Bank will not exist after September 30, 1987.) Requires that a portion of the payments by the Bank to financial institutions to provide financial assistance for the installation of solar energy systems in residential, commercial, and agricultural buildings be allocated for active solar energy. Provides that there shall be no Federal preference with respect to financial assistance between single-family and multifamily residences. Permits all financial institutions to apply directly to the Bank for financial assistance. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1985 through 1990 for the financial assistance program under the Solar Energy and Energy Conservation Act of 1980 for the purchase and installation of residential and commercial energy conserving improvements and solar energy systems. Amends the Solar Energy Research, Development, and Demonstration Act of 1974 to require the Secretary of Energy to maintain a renewable energy and energy conservation information program. (This program replaces the solar energy information program required to be established under current law.) Requires the Secretary to establish a National Appropriate Technology Service to provide individualized technical assistance to anyone interested in renewable energy and energy efficient technologies. Amends the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Act of 1981 to permit a State to transfer up to ten percent of its allotment under the low-income home energy assistance program for States to block grants for support of energy related information systems. Requires the Department of Energy to develop a formalized information exchange on the Federal, State, and local levels with respect to conservation and renewable energy. Authorizes appropriations to provide financial assistance to States and local governments to coordinate such program. Amends the Small Business Innovation Development Act of 1982 to require that a reasonable portion of the funds appropriated for nonnuclear programs of the Department of Energy be set aside for renewable energy and energy conservation businesses. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to require the Secretary of Energy to maintain a data base on the location of all stockpiles of renewable energy supplies and biofuels and of all renewable energy production facilities in the United States. Requires that such data be made available to Government departments and agencies upon request. Requires the Department of Energy to include renewable energy as a discrete energy sector in all publications of "The Monthly Energy Review." Requires Federal agencies with renewable energy programs to submit annual reports on such programs to Congress. Sets forth reporting requirements which apply to specified Federal agencies. Amends the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act to require the Secretary of Transportation to consider the use or integration of renewable fuels and any approaches which maximize conservation and renewable energy applications in determining maximum feasible average fuel economy. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to require the Federal Trade Commission to prescribe labeling requirements for consumer goods particularly in cases where there is a direct consumer benefit to save energy or utilize renewable energy. Amends the Small Business Act to authorize the Small Business Administration to provide reduced-rate loans to small businesses for acquisition of system performance ratings from testing laboratories for energy conservation and renewable energy systems and technologies.