U.S. Department of Energy Blog

EERE Network News Secretary Chu Announces U.S. Centers for U.S.-China Clean Energy ResearchU.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu announced today that two consortia will receive a total of $25 million over the next five years under the U.S.-China Clean Energy Research Center (CERC). 200,000 Homes Weatherized in Recovery Act Milestone: Vice PresidentVice President Biden has announced that 200,000 low-income homes have been weatherized under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, saving families money, conserving energy, and helping put thousands to work. DOE Announces Two Million Smart Meters Installed in the U.S.DOE has announced that two million smart meters have been installed in the United States with support from Recovery Act funding. Peace Corps to Tackle Grassroots Energy IssuesThe U.S. State Department has provided the Peace Corps with $1 million to tackle energy and climate issues by incorporating renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies in Central and South America. EPA, DOT Propose New Fuel Economy LabelsThe U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are proposing new fuel economy labels for new vehicles and are seeking public comment on the overhauled vehicle stickers. California Licenses First Solar Thermal Power Plant in 20 YearsThe California Energy Commission has approved construction of the Beacon Solar Energy Project, the first solar thermal project in the state to win approval in 20 years. It was part of the state's 2,800 megawatts of solar approved in August. Speeding Bullet EV from Ohio State Claims World Speed RecordA battery-powered electric vehicle (EV) built by Ohio State University engineering students has claimed a world speed record on the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah. United States Used Less Energy, More Renewables in 2009: ReportThe United States used more wind power and less fossil fuel in 2009 than 2008, according to a new report from DOE's Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory.