Energy

Transition to Competition in the Electric Industry Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 March 2003

Transition to Competition in the Electric Industry Act - States that no electric utility shall be required, under the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 (PURPA), to enter into a new contract or obligation to purchase or sell electricity or capacity from or to qualifying cogeneration and small power production facilities. Requires the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to promulgate and enforce regulations designed to ensure that no electric utility shall be required to absorb, directly or indirectly, the costs associated with purchases of electric power or capacity from a qualifying facility pursuant to PURPA obligations before enactment of this Act.

Genomes to Life Research and Development Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 March 2003

The Genomes to Life Research and Development Act - Directs the Secretary of Energy to implement a program of research, development, demonstration, and commercial application, to be known as the Genomes to Life Program, in systems biology and proteomics (the determination of the structure, function, and expression of proteins encoded in any genome, including new protein sequences encoded in a genome for which the structural or functional correlates are not currently known). Directs the Secretary to prepare a program plan describing how knowledge and capabilities would be developed and applied to Department of Energy missions relating to energy, environmental cleanup, and mitigation of global climate change.

Electricity Market Manipulation Prevention Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 March 2003

The Electricity Market Manipulation Prevention Act - Amends the Federal Power Act to instruct the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to review, at least annually, the characteristics of each market in which a public utility is authorized to sell wholesale electric energy at market-based rates to determine whether sales by the public utility in that market are subject to effective competition. Requires FERC to revoke immediately the authority of a public utility to sell wholesale electric energy at market-based rates upon a determination that: (1) sales in a market by such utility are not subject to effective competition; (2) rates charged by the utility are unjust, unreasonable, unduly discriminatory or preferential; (3) the public utility has intentionally engaged in an activity in a wholesale electric energy market that violates a FERC rule, tariff, or order; or (4) the public utility has engaged in or attempted to engage in fraudulent, manipulative, or deceptive activity in a wholesale electric energy market. Directs FERC, upon a finding of fraudulent, manipulative, or deceptive activity, to: (1) establish the just and reasonable rate for all prospective sales made by the public utility; and (2) require the public utility to refund any revenues collected in excess of the average wholesale power cost of service within the regional power market for the period in which the public utility engaged in the activity. Prohibits FERC from applying the public interest standard in reviewing a transaction executed at market-based rates, unless: (1) the standard is explicitly contained in the contract at issue; and (2) FERC does not find that the contract was not subject to effective competition.

To freeze the price of gasoline pending analysis by the Secretary of Energy of fluctuations in such price.

United States · United States Congress · 20 March 2003

Declares that it shall be unlawful to sell gasoline at wholesale or retail for a price in excess of the price that grade of gasoline sold for in the same market on March 10, 2003. Imposes a civil penalty of $10,000 for each day on which a violation occurs. States that this prohibition shall expire 60 days after the Secretary of Energy reports to Congress an analysis of gasoline price fluctuations, giving particular attention to the occurrence of price gouging as cause of such fluctuations. Requires such report to include the Secretary's recommendations for legislative or administrative actions that could improve gasoline price stability and eliminate price gouging.

To extend the deadline under the Federal Power Act for commencement of construction of the Mt. Hope Waterpower project (FERC Project No. 9401), and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 20 March 2003

Authorizes the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, upon licensee request, to extend the time period for commencement of construction of the Mt. Hope Waterpower project until December 31, 2005, if the Commission determines that the licensee will take specified actions with regard to the project. Provides for license reinstatement if the period required for commencement of project construction has expired prior to the date of the enactment of this Act .

To provide for the establishment of research, development, demonstration, and commercial application programs for fuel cell and hydrogen production, delivery, and storage technologies for transportation and stationary applications.

United States · United States Congress · 20 March 2003

Directs the Secretary of Transportation to establish a research, development, demonstration, and commercial application program for fuel cell and hydrogen production, delivery, and storage technologies for transportation and stationary applications that meet specified goals.

Klarheit über die Kosten der Förderung Erneuerbarer Energien (G-SIG: 15010212)

Germany · German Bundestag · 20 March 2003

Fördermaßnahmen, entstehende Kosten und in Anspruch genommene Mittel, Kreditvergabe durch die KfW, Höhe und zukünftiger Wegfall der Einspeisevergütungen nach dem EEG, Parallelbetrieb herkömmlicher Kraftwerke, Stromnetzausbau, Finanzierung der Reservevorbehaltung, Grenzen des Ausbaus; Windkraftwerke: technische, wirtschaftliche und finanzielle Betriebsbedingungen, Exporte und Importe, Verhältnisse in Dänemark, Gefährdung und Schäden für Menschen und Tiere, Veränderungen des Landschaftsbildes, Off-shore-Anlagen vor deutschen Küsten, Rückbau und Entsorgung

Common Position (EC) No 34/2003 of 20 March 2003 adopted by the Council, acting in accordance with the procedure referred to in Article 251 of the Treaty establishing the European Community, with a view to adopting a directive of the European Parliament and of the Council coordinating the procurement procedures of entities operating in the water, energy, transport and postal services sectors

European Union · Council of the European Union · 20 March 2003

Behinderung der Markteinführung der EN 12566-3 geprüften Kläranlagen

Austria · National Council · 19 March 2003

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Mag. Ulrike Sima, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Land- und Forstwirtschaft, Umwelt und Wasserwirtschaft betreffend Behinderung der Markteinführung der EN 12566-3 geprüften Kläranlagen

Position der Bundesregierung zur geplanten Aufstockung des EURATOM-Kreditrahmens

Austria · National Council · 19 March 2003

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Mag. Ulrike Sima, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Land- und Forstwirtschaft, Umwelt und Wasserwirtschaft betreffend Position der Bundesregierung zur geplanten Aufstockung des EURATOM-Kreditrahmens

Position der Bundesregierung zur geplanten Aufstockung des EURATOM-Kreditrahmens

Austria · National Council · 19 March 2003

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Mag. Ulrike Sima, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Finanzen betreffend Position der Bundesregierung zur geplanten Aufstockung des EURATOM-Kreditrahmens

Gesamtsumme der Hochwasserschäden nach der Überschwemmungskatastrophe Sommer 2002

Austria · National Council · 19 March 2003

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Michaela Sburny, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Land- und Forstwirtschaft, Umwelt und Wasserwirtschaft betreffend die Angabe des Ministeriums zur Gesamtsumme der Hochwasserschäden nach der Überschwemmungskatastrophe vom Sommer 2002

Energy Savings Performance Contracts Amendments Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 19 March 2003

Energy Savings Performance Contracts Amendments Act of 2003 - Amends the National Energy Conservation Policy Act (NECPA) to: (1) repeal the termination dates governing the authority to enter into energy savings performance contracts (thus extending such authority indefinitely); (2) allow as an approved benefit ancillary to an energy savings contract or energy savings performance contract providing for energy savings through construction of replacement facilities those savings resulting from reduced operation and maintenance costs at such facilities; and (3) authorize the Secretary of Defense and the heads of other interested Federal agencies to enter into a pilot program for energy savings performance contract investments in non-building energy efficiency improvement projects.

Interstate Transmission Act

United States · United States Congress · 19 March 2003

Interstate Transmission Act- Amends the Federal Power Act to direct the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to establish transmission pricing policies and standards for promoting the expansion of interstate transmission networks through incentive-based, performance-based, participant-funded, and/or cost-based rate treatments to ensure reliability of the electric system, to support interstate wholesale markets for electric power, and to expand transmission transfer capacity needed for wholesale competition. Grants FERC jurisdiction over Electric Reliability Organizations certified by FERC to establish and enforce reliability standards for the bulk-power system. Exempts Hawaii and Alaska from application of this Act. Repeals the requirement for FERC prior authorization of the disposition of public utility facilities. Authorizes FERC to promote voluntary development of regional transmission organizations, independent transmission providers, and similar organizations in order to enhance electric energy transmission in interstate commerce. Creates State and Federal authority to site transmission facilities. Amends the Public Utility Holding Company Act to exclude from its purview a multistate independent transmission company or any action to otherwise affect such an organization. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to treat as an involuntary conversion, for which no gain shall be recognized for capital gains tax purposes, any disposition to an independent transmission company of property, stock, or partnership interest in an entity whose principal trade or business provides electric transmission services, if the transaction is meant to implement FERC or State electric restructuring policy.

Aviation Industry Stabilization Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 19 March 2003

Aviation Industry Stabilization Act of 2003 - Amends Federal transportation law to change from discretionary to mandatory the authority of the Secretary of Transportation to provide insurance and reinsurance against loss or damage arising out of any risk from the operation of an American aircraft or foreign-flag aircraft. Grants the Secretary authority to extend through calendar year 2007 the termination date of any insurance policy issued to an air carrier. Makes permanent the Secretary's authority to declare an air carrier a victim of terrorism not liable for third party claims arising out of acts of terrorism. Extends the period for an air carrier to apply for a loan guarantee or line of credit to pay for its aviation fuel costs or increases in aviation fuel costs under the Air Transportation Safety and System Stabilization Act. Requires the Under Secretary for Border and Transportation Security, after all cockpit doors are strengthened, to consider and report to Congress on whether it is necessary to require Federal air marshals to be seated in the first class cabin of an aircraft with strengthened cockpit doors. Requires the Under Secretary to: (1) undertake action necessary to improve the screening of mail so that it can be carried on passenger flights; and (2) reimburse air carriers for certain screening and related activities as well as the cost of fortifying cockpit doors, and for any financial losses attributed to the loss of air traffic resulting from the use of force against Iraq in calendar year 2003. Requires that an airlift services contract entered into by the Secretary of Defense and an air carrier provide for the air carrier to be compensated for the positioning, repositioning, and other ferry portions of missions performed under the contract. Requires the Secretary of Energy, if the use of force against Iraq is authorized in calendar year 2003, to drawdown and distribute petroleum from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to the extent necessary to remedy a dislocation in the jet fuel market or an extraordinary increase in the price of jet fuel. Establishes an air cargo security working group composed of various groups to develop recommendations on the enhancement of the current known shipper program. Directs the Comptroller General to analyze factors contributing to the financial difficulties of air carriers to determine possible approaches to alleviate such difficulties.

To encourage the availability and use of motor vehicles that have improved fuel efficiency, in order to reduce the need to import oil into the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 19 March 2003

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a taxpayer as credits against income tax: (1) a fuel efficiency vehicle credit equal to 25 percent of the cost of any qualified fuel-efficient vehicle placed in service during the taxable year; and (2) a fuel-efficient vehicle assembly credit equal to $2,000 for every qualified fuel-efficient vehicle manufactured or produced in the United States during such year for first retail sale. Authorizes the Secretary of Energy to provide loan guarantees of up to $100 million per loan (and up to $1 billion over all) to manufacturers of motor vehicles or of motor vehicle engines for the costs of conversion from the manufacture of motor vehicles or engines achieving less than 40 miles per gallon of gasoline to the manufacture of such products achieving more than 40 miles per gallon Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) extend permanently the credit for increasing research activities; and (2) increase the alternative incremental credit rates.

Federal Government Energy Management Improvement Act

United States · United States Congress · 19 March 2003

Amends the Office of Federal Procurement Policy Act to include as a function of the Administrator for Federal Procurement Policy encouraging procurement policies that enhance the energy efficiency of the Government and decrease the Government's dependence on non-renewable energy resources.

Sicherheit oberirdischer Zwischenlager für ausgediente Brennelemente (G-SIG: 15010204)

Germany · German Bundestag · 19 March 2003

Baukonzepte, erforderliche Reparaturen, Gleisanschlüsse, Berücksichtigung jüngerer Hochwasserereignisse bei der Sicherheitsplanung

Zukunftsorientierte Energieforschung - Fusionsforschung in Deutschland und Europa vorantreiben (G-SIG: 15010200)

Germany · German Bundestag · 19 March 2003

Angemessene deutsche Beteiligung an Planung, Bau und Forschungsbetrieb des internationalen Fusionsexperimentes ITER, Unterstützung des Standortes Cadarache/Frankreich, weitere Förderung der laufenden Fusionsforschungsprojekte, u.a. WENDELSTEIN 7-X, Einstellung der notwendigen Haushaltsmittel

Brownfields Redevelopment Assistance Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 18 March 2003

Brownfields Redevelopment Assistance Act of 2003 - Amends the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965 to authorize the Secretary of Commerce to make grants for projects to alleviate or prevent conditions of excessive unemployment, underemployment, blight, and infrastructure deterioration associated with brownfield sites. Defines a "brownfield site," with exceptions, as real property the expansion, redevelopment, or reuse of which may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant or contaminant. Defines eco-industrial development as development conducted in a manner in which businesses cooperate with each other and the local community to share resources efficiently (such as information, materials, water, energy infrastructure, and natural habitat) with the goals of economic gains, improved environmental quality, and equitable enhancement of human resources in businesses and local communities.

To amend the Federal Power Act to provide for Federal and State coordination of permitting for electric transmission facilities, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 18 March 2003

Designates the Department of Energy (DOE) as the lead agency for purposes of coordinating all applicable Federal authorization and related environmental review of a proposed electricity transmission or distribution facility upon request of a current or prospective applicant for Federal authorization related to such a facility. Instructs DOE to establish prompt and binding intermediate milestones and ultimate deadlines for the review of and Federal authorization decisions relating to the proposed facility. Sets a one-year deadline for completion of all permit decisions and related environmental reviews regarding an application. Requires the Secretary of Energy to consult regularly with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and FERC-approved Regional Transmission Organizations and Independent System Operators on changes to the national grid that will improve reliability, relieve congestion, and enhance the capability of the grid to deliver electricity.

To encourage the development of hydroelectric projects, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 18 March 2003

Directs the Secretary of Energy to make incentive payments during a specified incentive period to the owner or operator of: (1) a turbine or other generating device owned or solely operated by a non-Federal entity which generates hydroelectric energy for sale and which is added to an existing dam or conduit (a qualified hydroelectric facility); and (2) hydroelectric facilities at existing dams for capital improvements that are directly related to improving their efficiency by at least three percent. Describes payment limitations.

Brownfield Redevelopment Assistance Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 18 March 2003

Brownfield Redevelopment Assistance Act of 2003 - Amends the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965 to authorize the Secretary of Commerce to make grants for projects to alleviate or prevent conditions of excessive unemployment, underemployment, blight, and infrastructure deterioration associated with brownfield sites. Defines a "brownfield site," with exceptions, as real property the expansion, redevelopment, or reuse of which may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant or contaminant. Defines eco-industrial development as development conducted in a manner in which businesses cooperate with each other and the local community to share resources efficiently (such as information, materials, water, energy infrastructure, and natural habitat) with the goals of economic gains, improved environmental quality, and equitable enhancement of human resources in businesses and local communities.

Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 18 March 2003

Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Act of 2003 - Declares it shall be policy of the United States that its research, development, demonstration, and commercial applications programs be designed to enable 20 percent of domestic energy generated from stationary sources to be generated from nonhydropower renewable energy sources by the year 2020. Prescribes research and development program goals to implement such policy in connection with enhanced: (1) renewable energy; (2) energy efficiency; and (3) aeronautical system energy. Directs the Secretary of Energy to: (1) submit to Congress an assessment of renewable energy resources available for commercial application; and (2) implement a Next Generation Lighting Initiative for advanced solid-state lighting technologies based on white light emitting diodes. Requires the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy to establish: (1) an interagency group to develop a National Building Performance Initiative; and (2) an advisory committee to analyze and provide recommendations on potential private sector roles and participation in the Initiative. Directs the Secretary of Energy to: (1) commission an independent assessment of innovative financing techniques to facilitate construction of new renewable energy and energy efficiency facilities; (2) establish a demonstration program for innovative technologies for renewable energy sources in buildings owned or operated by a State or local government; (3) provide assistance to small businesses and startup companies for the commercial application of renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies developed by or with support from the Department of Energy; (4) establish an education and outreach program on renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies; and (5) establish a competitive matching grant pilot program for voluntary local government programs that seek to promote innovative energy efficiency technologies and processes to reduce the industrial use of water and the discharge of wastewater from commercial and industrial entities.

Ratepayer Protection Act

United States · United States Congress · 18 March 2003

Ratepayer Protection Act - Declares that no electric utility shall be required to enter into a new contract or obligation to purchase or sell electric energy or capacity pursuant to rules under the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 (PURPA) requiring electric utilities to offer to sell electric energy to, and purchase it from, qualifying cogeneration facilities and qualifying small power production facilities (qualifying facilities). Directs the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to promulgate and enforce regulations to assure that no utility shall be required to absorb the costs associated with electric energy or capacity purchases from a qualifying facility pursuant to a legally enforceable obligation entered into or imposed under PURPA rules before this Act's enactment. (Thus assures that such utilities recover all costs associated with such purchases). Provides that regulations required by this Act shall be treated as rules enforceable under the Federal Power Act.

To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow for an energy efficient appliance credit.

United States · United States Congress · 18 March 2003

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to establish a limited energy efficient appliance credit for the eligible production of qualified energy efficient appliances produced by a taxpayer.

National Parks Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Act

United States · United States Congress · 18 March 2003

The National Parks Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Energy, in cooperation with the Secretary of the Interior and the National Park Service, to establish a program to provide funds to assist in the deployment of fuel cell and hydrogen infrastructure at one or more prominent National Parks.

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate that the Senate strongly supports the nonproliferation programs of the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 17 March 2003

Declares the sense of the Senate that: (1) the Senate strongly supports the nonproliferation programs of the Department of Defense, the Department of Energy, and the Department of State (Federal nonproliferation programs), which are intended to reduce the worldwide threat posed by nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons that remain unsecured in the Russian Federation and elsewhere; (2) the Russian Federation should continue to improve U.S. access to key facilities, and the sharing of information with the United States, so as to bring a successful and timely conclusion to various nonproliferation programs and activities; and (3) the United States should redouble its efforts to achieve full implementation of the Federal nonproliferation programs under effective management, and make full use of all funds that Congress appropriates or otherwise makes available for such programs.

Hydrogen Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 March 2003

Hydrogen Fuel Act of 2003, or Hydrogen Act - Amends the Spark M. Matsunaga Hydrogen Research, Development, and Demonstration Act of 1990 to authorize the Secretary of Energy to: (1) prepare a comprehensive interagency coordination plan for research, development, and demonstration programs and activities designated under such Act; and (2) conduct a program to transfer technology to the private sector in order to foster the exchange of generic, nonproprietary information and technology developed under this Act among industry, academia, and the Federal Government. Declares that the goals of the research and development program are to enable: (1) a decision by automakers by 2015 to offer affordable and technically viable hydrogen fuel cell vehicles in the mass consumer market; and (2) production and delivery to consumers of model year 2020 hydrogen fuel cell vehicles meeting specified requirements. Instructs the Secretary to conduct a research and development and demonstration programs for: (1) hydrogen infrastructure; (2) fuel cells and fuel cell technologies including hydrogen-powered fuel cell vehicles; and (3) hydrogen codes, standards, and safety protocols. Prescribes implementation guidelines. Directs the President to establish an interagency task force to: (1) address development of designated hydrogen infrastructure, fuel cells in government applications, and vehicle hydrogen fuel system integrity safety; and (2) coordinate interagency programs and activities, including information exchange. Replaces the Hydrogen Technnical Advisory Panel with the Hydrogen Technical and Fuel Cell Advisory Committee to advise the Secretary on the programs and activities under such Act. Repeals the Hydrogen Future Act of 1996.

Providing for the expenses of certain committees of the House of Representatives in the One Hundred Eighth Congress.

United States · United States Congress · 17 March 2003

Makes amounts available for expenses, including staff salaries, of the following committees of the House of Representatives in the 108th Congress: (1) Agriculture; (2) Armed Services; (3) Budget; (4) Education and the Workforce; (5) Energy and Commerce; (6) Financial Services; (7) Government Reform; (8) Homeland Security; (9) House Administration; (10) Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence; (11) International Relations; (12) Judiciary; (13) Resources; (14) Rules; (15) Science; (16) Small Business; (17) Standards of Official Conduct; (18) Transportation and Infrastructure; (19) Veterans' Affairs; and (20s) Ways and Means. Sets forth first and second session limitations on such amounts. Grants the Committee on House Administration authority to make adjustments in such amounts if necessary to comply with a presidential sequestration order issued under the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act) or to conform to any reduction in appropriations.

Sachgerechte Planungsentscheidungen zum Bau einer Europäischen Spallations-Neutronenquelle ermöglichen (G-SIG: 15010197)

Germany · German Bundestag · 17 March 2003

Erneute Prüfung und Bewertung des Projektes einer ESS (Europäische Spallations-Neutronenquelle) durch den Wissenschaftsrat, Finanzierung und Standortfrage, parlamentarische Behandlung im zuständigen Fachausschuss, Umsetzung des Projektes mit den europäischen Partnern

A bill to provide for the transfer to the Secretary of Energy of title to, and full responsibility for the possession, transportation, and disposal of, radioactive waste associated with the West Valley Demonstration project, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 13 March 2003

Sets a September 30, 2004, deadline for the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority to transfer to the Secretary of Energy title to and full responsibility for the possession, transportation, disposal, stewardship, maintenance, and monitoring of all radioactive waste (other than waste disposed of in the State-licensed disposal area) at the Western New York Service Center in West Valley, New York, in exchange for payment to the United States of all amounts held by the Authority for the maintenance of radioactive waste solidified under the West Valley Demonstration Project.

Coal Energy Research, Development, and Demonstration Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 13 March 2003

Coal Energy Research, Development, and Demonstration Act of 2003 - Instructs the Secretary of Energy to: (1) perform an assessment that identifies cost and performance goals of technologies permitting continued cost-competitive use of coal for electricity generation, as chemical feedstocks, and as transportation fuel in 2007, 2015, and the years after 2020; and (2) implement a technology research, development, and demonstration program to facilitate production and generation of coal-based power through methods and equipment under specified Federal law. Prescribes technical criteria for a clean coal power initiative under which the Secretary shall fund coal energy generation projects that advance efficiency, environmental performance, and cost competitiveness well beyond the level of technologies that on a full scale are in operation or have been demonstrated to date. Instructs the Secretary to award competitive, merit-based grants to universities for the establishment of Centers of Excellence for Energy Systems of the Future.

To amend title VI of the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 to establish a Federal renewable energy portfolio standard for certain retail electric utilities, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 13 March 2003

Amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 to prescribe guidelines for a Federal Renewable Portfolio Standard under which retail electric suppliers submit renewable energy credits to the Secretary. Directs the Secretary to: (1) encourage federally-owned utilities, municipally-owned utilities, and rural electric cooperatives that sell electric energy to electric consumers for purposes other than resale to participate in the renewable portfolio standard program; and (2) establish, not later than December 31, 2005, a State renewable energy account program.

Energy Markets Fraud Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 13 March 2003

Energy Markets Fraud Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2003 - Declares unlawful any practices that are fraudulent, manipulative, deceptive, or a contrivance in contravention of Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) regulations governing: (1) transmission and sales of electric energy; or (2) transportation and sales of natural gas. Subjects such practices to certain Federal Power Act (FPA) sanctions. Amends the FPA to require FERC to promulgate criteria governing waivers and exemptions from requirements regarding: (1) issuance of securities; (2) accounts and recordkeeping; and (3) officials dealing in securities (including any prospective blanket order). Places a moratorium upon such waivers and exemptions until the criteria required for promulgation become effective. Directs FERC to review previously issued waivers. Vitiates such waivers after a specified deadline unless they are found to comply with such criteria. Amends the FPA and the Natural Gas Act to revise reporting requirements for transactions regarding transmission or sales of electric energy and of natural gas. Sets forth prohibitions on the distribution or publication by an electric power or natural gas information processor of quotations and transactions of electric energy and natural gas in contravention of FERC rules. Prohibits any person who owns, controls, or is under the control or ownership of a public utility, a natural gas company, or a public utility holding company from owning, controlling, or operating any electronic computer network or other multilateral trading facility utilized to trade electricity or natural gas. Sets forth civil and criminal penalties for violations of this Act. Requires review by: (1) the Securities and Exchange Commission of certain exemptions granted under the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935 to determine if they should continue in force and effect; and (2) the Financial Accounting Standards Board of accounting for contracts in energy trading and risk management activities. Instructs FERC to adopt rules and procedures to protect electric consumers from self-dealing, interaffiliate abuse, and other harmful actions taken by persons owning or controlling public utilities. Mandates annual FERC review of the activities and characteristics of any public utility authorized to sell electric energy at market-based rates to determine whether such rates are just and reasonable. Requires FERC to modify or revoke the authority of such a utility to sell at market-based rates for violations of law or for rates found to be unjust, unreasonable, unduly discriminatory, or preferential.

Fueling the U.S.A. Through Unlimited Reliable Energy (FUTURE) Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 13 March 2003

Fueling the U.S.A. Through Unlimited Reliable Energy (FUTURE) Act of 2003 - Authorizes the Secretary of Energy to undertake full scientific and technological cooperation in the international burning plasma project (ITER). Directs the Secretary to: (1) send an implementation plan to Congress for a domestic burning plasma experiment (FIRE) if at any time during the negotiations on the ITER project, the Secretary determines that construction and operation of the ITER project is unlikely or infeasible; and (2) transmit to Congress a plan for implementing a policy for developing the scientific, engineering, and commercial infrastructure necessary to ensure that the United States is competitive with other nations in providing fusion energy for its own needs and the needs of other nations, including by demonstrating electric power or hydrogen production for the U.S. energy grid utilizing fusion energy at the earliest date possible.

Efficient Energy through Certified Technologies (EFFECT) Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 13 March 2003

Efficient Energy through Certified Technologies (EFFECT) Act of 2003 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code, with respect to energy use in buildings, to establish: (1) a deduction for certain energy efficient property used in business; (2) a credit for the construction of a new energy efficient home; and (3) a credit for certain nonbusiness energy property.

To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the credit for the production of fuel from nonconventional sources and the credit for the production of electricity to include landfill gas.

United States · United States Congress · 13 March 2003

Amends the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) provision concerning the credit for producing fuel from a nonconventional source to provide, in general, that in the case of a facility for producing qualified fuel from landfill gas which is placed in service after June 30, 1998, and before January 1, 2008, the provision shall apply to fuel produced at such facility during the five-year period beginning on the later of: (1) the date such facility was placed in service; or (2) enactment. Amends the IRC provision concerning electricity produced from certain renewable sources to: (1) include landfill gas as a qualified energy resource; and (2) include, in the case of a facility using landfill gas to produce electricity, as a qualified facility any such facility owned by the taxpayer which is originally placed in service before January 1, 2008.

Opinion of Mr Advocate General Jacobs delivered on 13 March 2003. # Altair Chimica SpA v ENEL Distribuzione SpA. # Reference for a preliminary ruling: Corte d'appello di Firenze - Italy. # Competition - Dominant position - Supply of electricity - Imposition of a sovrapprezzo. # Case C-207/01.

European Union · Court of Justice of the European Union · 13 March 2003

Truth in Electricity Trading Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 12 March 2003

Truth in Electricity Trading Act of 2003 - Amends the Federal Power Act to direct the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to promulgate rules establishing an electronic information system to provide the Commission and the public access to information that facilitates price transparency and participation in markets subject to its jurisdiction, including the availability and market price of wholesale electric energy and transmission services. Prohibits contracts for round trip trading of electricity. Increases civil and criminal penalties for Federal Power Act violations.

Safer Truck Act

United States · United States Congress · 12 March 2003

Safer Truck Act - Amends Federal highway law to authorize a State to allow a single unit truck or bus without a trailer to operate on the Interstate System while carrying up to 20 metric tons (44,080 pounds) of cargo, packaging, and load securement materials regardless of the overall weight of the vehicle, its axle weights, or weight of its safety and energy conservation devices if: (1) the cargo is evenly distributed in a compartment or combined compartments at least 40 feet long; (2) the overall height of the vehicle and cargo does not exceed the width of the wheelbase; (3) the axles are positioned at the extreme ends of the vehicle; and (4) the gross weight and certified empty weight of the vehicle (including detachable cargo compartments) are marked conspicuously on the front of the vehicle in contrasting three-inch or taller letters and numbers. Amends Federal transportation law to revise certain commercial motor vehicle width limitations on vehicles operating on the Interstate System and on Federal-aid highways to exclude from width calculations with respect to such limitations any safety devices that reduce the possibility of death and injury, if such devices fit entirely within the legal travel lanes of all roads upon which the vehicle operates.

Truth in Electricity Revenue Reporting Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 12 March 2003

Truth in Electricity Revenue Reporting Act of 2003 - Amends the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 to prohibit the fraudulent recording of revenue from round trip electric power sales.

Cleveland National Forest Responsible Electricity Transmission Act

United States · United States Congress · 12 March 2003

Cleveland National Forest Responsible Electricity Transmission Act - Directs the Secretaries of the Interior and of Agriculture (the "Secretaries") to issue the necessary grants, easements, permits, plan amendments, and other approvals to allow for the siting and construction of a high-voltage electricity transmission line in part of the Cleveland National Forest in California and adjacent lands (except any identified wilderness area) under the jurisdiction of the Bureau of Land Management and the Forest Service. Instructs the Secretaries to give a preference to any application or preapplication proposal for a transmission line right-of-way submitted before December 31, 2002, over all other applications and proposals for the same or similar right-of-way submitted on or after that date.

Gasoline Price Stabilization Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 12 March 2003

Gasoline Price Stabilization Act of 2003 - Authorizes the President to issue orders and regulations, including price caps, to stabilize prices for wholesale and retail gasoline to levels at or below levels prevailing on March 1, 2002. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to cite additional criteria under which a severe energy supply interruption is deemed to exist, including a determination by the President that the increase in the price of petroleum products is: (1) likely to cause a significant adverse impact on the national, State, or regional economy; and (2) a substantial cause of the energy supply reduction is the anticompetitive conduct of either foreign countries or international entities, or producers, refiners, or marketers of petroleum products. Requires the President, when the price of a barrel of crude oil exceeds $25 on the New York Mercantile Exchange for more than 14 days, to issue a report to certain congressional committees that: (1) states the results of a comprehensive review of the causes and potential consequences of the price increase; (2) provides an estimate of the likely duration of the price increase, based on analyses and forecasts of the Energy Information Administration; (3) provides an analysis of the effects of the price increase on the cost of gasoline at the wholesale and retail levels; and (4) states whether, and provides a specific rationale for why, the President does or does not support the drawdown and distribution of a specified amount of oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. Directs the Secretary of Energy to establish minimum inventory levels that producers, refiners, and marketers of crude oil and petroleum products must maintain in order to limit the impact unexpected supply disruptions have on prices at the wholesale and retail level. Amends the Mineral Leasing Act to repeal the authorization for the export of Alaska North Slope oil, and prohibit such exports. Urges the President to instruct the U.S. Representative to the World Trade Organization (WTO) to file a complaint in the WTO against oil-producing countries for violating their obligations under its rules.

EURATOM-Vertrag nicht aufweichen - Keine einseitigen Eingriffe in die Finanzierung (G-SIG: 15010175)

Germany · German Bundestag · 12 March 2003

Keine einseitige Kündigung des EURATOM-Vertrages, Sicherstellung der Finanzierung und der Kernforschung, nationale Förderung der Kernfusionsforschung, Beteiligung am Großforschungsprojekt "ITER"

Keine Zustimmung zur Erhöhung der EURATOM Kreditlinie (G-SIG: 15010172)

Germany · German Bundestag · 12 March 2003

Ablehnung der Finanzierung von Kernenergieanlagen über EURATOM-Anleihen im ECOFIN-Rat

Fusion Development Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 11 March 2003

Fusion Development Act of 2003 - Authorizes the Secretary of Energy to undertake full scientific and technological cooperation in the international burning plasma project (ITER). Directs the Secretary to: (1) send an implementation plan to Congress for a domestic burning plasma experiment (FIRE) if at any time during the negotiations on the ITER project, the Secretary determines that construction and operation of the ITER project is unlikely or infeasible; and (2) transmit to Congress a plan for implementing a policy for developing the scientific, engineering, and commercial infrastructure necessary to ensure that the United States is competitive with other nations in providing fusion energy for its own needs and the needs of other nations, including by demonstrating electric power or hydrogen production for the U.S. energy grid utilizing fusion energy at the earliest date possible.

Energy Tax Incentives Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 11 March 2003

Energy Tax Incentives Act of 2003 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend and modify the renewable electricity production tax credit to, among other things, include credits for electricity produced from biomass, swine and bovine waste nutrients, geothermal energy, and solar energy. Provides alternative vehicle and fuel incentives, including credits for installation of alternative fueling stations and the retail sale of alternative fuels as motor vehicle fuel, modification of the credit for qualified electric vehicles, and allowing the alcohol fuels credit to be transferred and to be used against motor fuels taxes. Sets forth certain conservation and energy efficiency provisions such as credits for the construction of new energy efficient homes, the installation of energy efficient appliances, combined heat and power system properties, and energy efficiency improvements to existing homes. Establishes a three-year recovery period for depreciation of qualified energy management devices. Establishes clean coal incentives, including credits for emission reductions, efficiency improvements in existing coal-based generation facilities, and investment in qualifying advanced clean coal technology. Revises oil and gas provisions, including establishing a credit for the production of oil and gas from marginal wells, permitting the expensing of capital costs incurred in complying with EPA sulfur regulations, establishing an environmental tax credit, extending the marginal production income limit, and treating natural gas distribution lines as 15-year property. Sets forth electric utility restructuring provisions. Makes additional amendments, including amendments concerning: (1) the recovery period for Indian reservation property; and (2) the definition of a rural airport.

Hydrogen Transportation Wins Over Growing Reliance on Oil (H2 GROW) Act

United States · United States Congress · 11 March 2003

Hydrogen Transportation Wins Over Growing Reliance on Oil (H2 GROW) Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to establish, with respect to hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and the production and use of hydrogen used in hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, tax credits, tax deductions, depreciation benefits, and income exemptions and exclusions. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to establish minimum Federal fleet requirements with respect to hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. Establishes, as a goal, to replace reliance on 30 million barrels of foreign oil through the use of hydrogen fuel cells by December 31, 2012. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to establish an advisory commission regarding the commercialization of fuel cell motor vehicles, including the achievement of the above goal.

Coastal Zone Renewable Energy Promotion Act of 2003

United States · United States Congress · 11 March 2003

Coastal Zone Renewable Energy Promotion Act of 2003 - Amends the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 to expand statutory procedures and policies for the location of renewable energy facilities in the marine environment. Prescribes licensing requirements for the operation of renewable energy facilities in waters under Federal jurisdiction seaward of the coastal zone. Instructs the Secretary of Commerce immediately to identify and evaluate locations within such waters that have the greatest potential for producing energy from renewable energy facilities.