Michigan: Tax credits for "Green Buildings"

The push for energy efficient building practices in Michigan is under way with the introduction of legislation such as House Bill 4286 by Representative Bruce Rendon (R-Lake City) in February 2011. This bill seeks to amend the Michigan Business Tax Act (2007 PA 36) by providing tax credits for "green" housing practices. In this bill "green" in reference to building practices means that there is an emphasis on site conservation with sustainable planning, water conservation/efficiency, energy efficiency/renewable efficiency, conservation of materials/resources, and indoor environmental quality. Tax credits are awarded based on the acquisition of a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification from the U.S. Green Building Council (Legislature.mi.gov).

California adopts revolutionary new clean car standards

On January 27, 2012, the California Air Resources Board (“ARB”) notched a potential victory in the battle against greenhouse gas (“GhG”) emissions. In a unanimous vote, ARB adopted the Advanced Clean Cars (“ACC”) regulatory package, which is a program designed to deliver cleaner air, reduce GhG emissions, and help build the market for fuel cell and battery-electric vehicles. At the opening of the ARB hearing on this historic vote, Mary Nichols, ARB Chairman, predicted:

New California laws clear the way for renewable energy projects

California passed several laws recently which further clear the way for renewable energy projects in the state. 

Senate Bill 618 makes it possible for big solar projects to move forward without disturbing sensitive lands or species.

It provides incentives for solar developers to site projects on impaired farmland - lands that are no longer suitable for agriculture because they're contaminated or non-productive.

Connecticut’s new energy department taking shape

The plan to turn Connecticut into a leader in clean energy technology, renewable resources and lower cost electricity is beginning to take form.

“We are at that transformational moment,” said Kevin DelGobbo, chairman of the Connecticut Public Utilities Regulatory Authority.