July 1, 2008

U.S. Solar Energy Industry Blasts Government Move (Reuters)

Leaders in the US solar energy industry have blasted the US government for the freeze on applications for new solar projects on public land in six Western states.

Georgia Judge Cites Carbon Dioxide in Denying Coal Plant Permit (New York Times)

A judge in Georgia has thrown out an air pollution permit for a new coal plant because it did not set limits on CO2 emissions, relying on last year's decision by the US Supreme Court that said CO2 could be regulated as a pollutant.

McCain's Energy Record is On/Off (Los Angeles Times)

On energy and climate issues, Sen. McCain has swerved from one position to another over the years, taking often contradictory stances. That record of inconsistency shows little of the clear direction he has said would come from a McCain White House.

Promise of Biofuel Clouded by Weather Risks (New York Times)

The Midwest floods have brought into sharp relief a new economic hazard. As America grows more reliant on corn for fuel, it's becoming far more vulnerable to the hazards that can damage crops, from droughts to plagues to storms.

Stern Optimistic U.S. Will Act on Climate (Reuters)

Climate expert Nicholas Stern has said he's confident the US will move to regulate greenhouse gases in the first half of next year, providing leadership that will help the world reach an agreement in late 2009 on slowing climate change.

Tax Breaks Keep Electric Car Maker in California (Los Angeles Times)

Tesla Motors, the company that built the first mass-produced, all-electric car, will keep its manufacturing plant in California, thanks to a new tax break worked out by Gov.Schwarzenegger and the state treasurer.

Penguin Woes Signal Sea Problems (AP)

The dwindling march of the penguins is a sign that the world's oceans are in trouble from global warming, ocean oil pollution, depleted fisheries and tourism and development, according to a new scientific review paper.