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Economic study questions cost-effectiveness of current biofuels and their ability to cut fossil fuel use; gas tax and energy efficiency improvements found more effective

Green Car Congress

A new study by economists at Oregon State University questions the cost-effectiveness of current biofuels and says they would barely reduce fossil fuel use and would likely increase greenhouse gas emissions. Likewise, a gas tax increase would be 21 times more effective than promoting cellulosic ethanol.

Tax 225
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Mn/DOT assessing potential for mileage-based user fee to replace fuel tax; Battelle conducting technology assessment

Green Car Congress

The Minnesota Department of Transportation (Mn/DOT) will recruit 500 people from Wright and Hennepin counties to take part in research to test technology that could someday be used to collect a mileage-based user fee (MBUF) in lieu of a gasoline tax. These funding sources support construction and maintenance of the highway system.

Fuel Tax 262
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Top 15 Nissan LEAF markets in US in 2013

Green Car Congress

Georgia has a tax credit worth up to $5,000 for zero-emissions vehicles. Oregon has a Chief EV Officer to promote EV use. San Diego ranks in the top LEAF cities for many of the same reasons in other California and West Coast markets: state tax incentives, HOV/HOT access and general environment-mindedness. Washington D.C.

2013 334
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Geothermal energy in US grew 5% in 2012; California the leader

Green Car Congress

This represents the second highest increase in geothermal power capacity over a calendar year since the production tax credit (PTC) was extended to geothermal in 2005, and a 5% percent increase over 2011 year-end data. In 2012, seven new geothermal projects and additions came online in three different states.

2012 303
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Time to shake-up EV outreach?

Electric Auto Association

The Southern Oregon chapter tests new ways to spark interest. The leaders of the Southern Oregon Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Association (SOHEVA) do not rest on their laurels when it comes to convincing the public to drive electric. Along the way, SOHEVA has been very involved in sustainability policy in the Southern Oregon area.

Oregon 52
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Pike Research forecasts global geothermal power capacity could more than double by 2020; US to lead world in geothermal power capacity through 2020

Green Car Congress

NETL will partner with Penn State, West Virginia University, and the University of Pittsburgh in the 2-year effort. One NETL project that will improve capabilities for predicting the behavior and performance of fracture networks in enhanced geothermal systems. Pike forecasts that total US geothermal capacity will reach 4.2

2020 186
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Obama Administration launches series of actions to accelerate EV adoption; inc. $4.5B in loan guarantees, pursuing 350 kW fast charge

Green Car Congress

35 new businesses, non-profits, universities, and utilities signing on to DOE’s Workplace Charging Challenge and committing to provide electric vehicle charging access for their workforce. It will also list current tax credits and incentives applicable to EV charging. Binghamton University (State University of New York).

Obama 150