Natural gas has been pitched as a "bridge fuel" by those who don't want to transition New England's electricity supply from dirty fossil fuels like coal and oil to clean energy sources like solar and wind right away. But the toll on the … [Read more...]
2009 Energy Use in the USA
Energy consumption from 2008 to 2009 declined slightly, as did our efficiency: http://www.dailykos.com/story/... The estimated U.S. energy use in 2008 equaled 99.2 quadrillion BTUs ("quads"), down from 101.5 quadrillion BTUs in 2007.... … [Read more...]
Cape Wind political work not done yet (with poll)
Folks around here are plugged in enough to know about the Cape Wind project. What you may be in the dark about is the three public hearings coming up quickly. Renew your interest. Take charge of our future. Speak … [Read more...]
National Grid wants more money.
The cost of electricity and it's transmission is already way over the top. from wggb.com The largest electric utility in Massachusetts wants to use the extra $111 million in revenue to upgrade its electrical distribution system and … [Read more...]
Water power – Back to the Future again, WITH POLL !!
Does YOUR town have any dams? Massachusetts helped create the industrial revolution with hydropower. Governor Patrick is looking in that direction today. Here are some indications: http://www.wickedlocal.com/new... See also: … [Read more...]
The Doorbell Dilemma (NOT Palin, McCain, Gustav)
If your home is like mine, your doorbell is electric. Why electric? Who knows. But from what I've been able to find with Google, electric doorbells started to become popular in the early 1900s. Back then, we probably didn't think much about … [Read more...]
Renewable Energy Choices and Electricity Metering
My first question was asking about whether the state has any plans to require power companies to provide an option for residents interested in having all their electricity generated by renewable sources. Currently, some utility companies … [Read more...]
Why in Chelsea’s Backyard?
The Boston Globe editorial staff weighed in on the misguided proposal for a new peaking diesel plant for downtown Chelsea today with their piece, "To limit Chelsea pollution". As a downwinder of the Salem Power Plant, it's … [Read more...]
Coal’s Stranglehold on Congress
Bits and Bobs of InformationBefore writing this diary, I knew little about the financial side of coal. Some tidbits: * Total United States coal production 2005-06: 1131.5 million short tons (eia.doe.gov). * There are … [Read more...]
Do you REALLY want to wash that NOW?
Unfortunately, this is a rare exception and most people have no idea how much their power costs. Many electricity markets are now deregulated, which is nice in theory. But in order for true competition to flourish, willing … [Read more...]