India Makes Plans To Spur More Renewable Energy Development

An innovative new policy will require fossil-fuel power plant developers to also invest in renewables.

India plans to ask power generators to invest in clean-energy projects as Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeks to accelerate the nation’s shift away from the troubled coal industry.

Florida energy bill becomes law, includes biofuel tax exemptions

New energy legislation in the state of Florida became law April 14 despite Florida Gov. Rick Scott’s failure to sign the bill. The legislation, HB 7117, contains several measures aimed to encourage the development and expansion of the renewable energy sector within the state, including biofuels production and distribution. The bill also addresses policies and restrictions for growing certain strains of algae and cyanobacteria.

The bill specifically addresses biodiesel, ethanol and renewable fuel, which is defined as a fuel produced from biomass that is used to displace fossil transportation fuels. Under the legislation, a sales tax exemption is established for materials used in the distribution of B10-B100, E10-E100 and other renewables. 

Grant program supported up to 75,000 wind and solar jobs: congress killed it anyway

A federal grant program created to boost renewable energy development during the height of the economic crisis supported 75,000 jobs and more than $25 billion in economic activity, according to a new analysis from the Department of Energy.

The grant program was created in February of 2009 as part of the stimulus package. It allowed developers to take a cash grant through the Treasury in lieu of a tax credit, helping thaw out the frozen capital markets and stimulate strong activity in the renewable energy sector.

Montana: County commissioners support Public Lands Renewable Energy Act

In addressing our country’s debt crisis, the President and Congress need look no further than the great state of Montana. Our diversified economy must be a marvel to behold in states that are making desperate attempts to balance their budgets on the backs of taxpayers. Montana is one of only 12 states operating in the black with a projected $426.7 million surplus for fiscal year 2011.