U.S. Congress - Text of H.R.2950 as Introduced in House Renewable Fuels, Consumer Protection, and Energy Efficiency Act of 2007
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Donate NowH.R.2950 - Renewable Fuels, Consumer Protection, and Energy Efficiency Act of 2007
To reduce our Nation's dependency on foreign oil by investing in clean, renewable, and alternative energy resources, promoting new emerging energy technologies, developing greater efficiency, and creating a Strategic Energy Efficiency and Renewables Reserve to invest in alternative energy, and for other purposes.
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HR 2950 IHCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
To reduce our Nation's dependency on foreign oil by investing in clean, renewable, and alternative energy resources, promoting new emerging energy technologies, developing greater efficiency, and creating a Strategic Energy Efficiency and Renewables Reserve to invest in alternative energy, and for other purposes.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
June 28, 2007
Mrs. WILSON of New Mexico introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committees on Science and Technology, Education and Labor, Transportation and Infrastructure, Natural Resources, Oversight and Government Reform, Financial Services, Foreign Affairs, Small Business, Judiciary, Armed Services, Select Intelligence (Permanent Select), and Agriculture, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concernedCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
To reduce our Nation's dependency on foreign oil by investing in clean, renewable, and alternative energy resources, promoting new emerging energy technologies, developing greater efficiency, and creating a Strategic Energy Efficiency and Renewables Reserve to invest in alternative energy, and for other purposes.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.
(a) Short Title- This Act may be cited as the `Renewable Fuels, Consumer Protection, and Energy Efficiency Act of 2007'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Table of Contents- The table of contents of this Act is as follows:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 2. Relationship to other law.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
TITLE I--BIOFUELS FOR ENERGY SECURITY AND TRANSPORTATION
Sec. 101. Short title.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 102. Definitions.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Subtitle A--Renewable Fuel Standard
Sec. 111. Renewable fuel standard.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 112. Production of renewable fuel using renewable energy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 113. Sense of Congress relating to the use of renewable resources to generate energy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Subtitle B--Renewable Fuels Infrastructure
Sec. 121. Infrastructure pilot program for renewable fuels.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 122. Bioenergy research and development.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 123. Bioresearch centers for systems biology program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 124. Loan guarantees for renewable fuel facilities.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 125. Grants for renewable fuel production research and development in certain States.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 126. Grants for infrastructure for transportation of biomass to local biorefineries.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 127. Biorefinery information center.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 128. Alternative fuel database and materials.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 129. Fuel tank cap labeling requirement.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 130. Biodiesel.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 131. Transitional assistance for farmers who plant dedicated energy crops for a local cellulosic refinery.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 132. Research and development in support of low-carbon fuels.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Subtitle C--Studies
Sec. 141. Study of advanced biofuels technologies.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 142. Study of increased consumption of ethanol-blended gasoline with higher levels of ethanol.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 143. Pipeline feasibility study.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 144. Study of optimization of flexible fueled vehicles to use E-85 fuel.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 145. Study of credits for use of renewable electricity in electric vehicles.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 146. Study of engine durability associated with the use of biodiesel.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 147. Study of incentives for renewable fuels.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 148. Study of streamlined lifecycle analysis tools for the evaluation of renewable carbon content of biofuels.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 149. Study of effects of ethanol-blended gasoline on off-road vehicles.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 150. Study of offshore wind resources.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Subtitle D--Environmental Safeguards
Sec. 161. Grants for production of advanced biofuels.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 162. Studies of effects of renewable fuel use.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 163. Integrated consideration of water quality in determinations on fuels and fuel additives.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 164. Anti-backsliding.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
TITLE II--ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROMOTION
Sec. 201. Short title.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 202. Definition of Secretary.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Subtitle A--Promoting Advanced Lighting Technologies
Sec. 211. Accelerated procurement of energy efficient lighting.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 212. Incandescent reflector lamp efficiency standards.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 213. Bright Tomorrow Lighting Prizes.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 214. Sense of Senate concerning efficient lighting standards.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 215. Renewable energy construction grants.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Subtitle B--Expediting New Energy Efficiency Standards
Sec. 221. Definition of energy conservation standard.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 222. Regional efficiency standards for heating and cooling products.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 223. Furnace fan rulemaking.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 224. Expedited rulemakings.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 225. Periodic reviews.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 226. Energy efficiency labeling for consumer electronic products.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 227. Residential boiler efficiency standards.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 228. Technical corrections.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 229. Electric motor efficiency standards.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 230. Energy standards for home appliances.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 231. Improved energy efficiency for appliances and buildings in cold climates.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 232. Deployment of new technologies for high-efficiency consumer products.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 233. Industrial efficiency program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Subtitle C--Promoting High Efficiency Vehicles, Advanced Batteries, and Energy Storage
Sec. 241. Lightweight materials research and development.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 242. Loan guarantees for fuel-efficient automobile parts manufacturers.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 243. Advanced technology vehicles manufacturing incentive program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 244. Energy storage competitiveness.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 245. Advanced transportation technology program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 246. Inclusion of electric drive in Energy Policy Act of 1992.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 247. Commercial insulation demonstration program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Subtitle D--Setting Energy Efficiency Goals
Sec. 251. Oil savings plan and requirements.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 252. National energy efficiency improvement goals.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 253. National media campaign.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 254. Modernization of electricity grid system.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 255. Smart grid system report.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 256. Smart grid technology research, development, and demonstration.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 257. Smart grid interoperability framework.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 258. State consideration of smart grid.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 259. Support for energy independence of the United States.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 260. Energy Policy Commission.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Subtitle E--Promoting Federal Leadership in Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
Sec. 261. Federal fleet conservation requirements.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 262. Federal requirement to purchase electricity generated by renewable energy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 263. Energy savings performance contracts.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 264. Energy management requirements for Federal buildings.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 265. Combined heat and power and district energy installations at Federal sites.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 266. Federal building energy efficiency performance standards.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 267. Application of International Energy Conservation Code to public and assisted housing.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 268. Energy efficient commercial buildings initiative.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 269. Clean energy corridors.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 270. Federal standby power standard.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 270A. Standard relating to solar hot water heaters.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 270B. Renewable energy innovation manufacturing partnership.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 270C. Express loans for renewable energy and energy efficiency.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 270D. Small business energy efficiency.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Subtitle F--Assisting State and Local Governments in Energy Efficiency
Sec. 271. Weatherization assistance for low-income persons.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 272. State energy conservation plans.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 273. Utility energy efficiency programs.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 274. Energy efficiency and demand response program assistance.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 275. Energy and environmental block grant.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 276. Energy sustainability and efficiency grants for institutions of higher education.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 277. Energy efficiency and renewable energy worker training program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 278. Assistance to States to reduce school bus idling.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 279. Definition of State.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 280. Coordination of planned refinery outages.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 281. Technical criteria for clean coal power initiative.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 282. Administration.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 283. Offshore renewable energy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Subtitle G--Marine and Hydrokinetic Renewable Energy Promotion
Sec. 291. Definition of marine and hydrokinetic renewable energy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 292. Research and development.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 293. National ocean energy research centers.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
TITLE III--CARBON CAPTURE AND STORAGE RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT, AND DEMONSTRATION
Sec. 301. Short title.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 302. Carbon capture and storage research, development, and demonstration program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 303. Carbon dioxide storage capacity assessment.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 304. Carbon capture and storage initiative.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 305. Capitol power plant carbon dioxide emissions demonstration program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 306. Assessment of carbon sequestration and methane and nitrous oxide emissions from terrestrial ecosystems.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 307. Abrupt climate change research program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
TITLE IV--COST-EFFECTIVE AND ENVIRONMENTALLY SUSTAINABLE PUBLIC BUILDINGS
Subtitle A--Public Buildings Cost Reduction
Sec. 401. Short title.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 402. Cost-effective and geothermal heat pump technology acceleration program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 403. Environmental Protection Agency demonstration grant program for local governments.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 404. Definitions.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Subtitle B--Installation of Photovoltaic System at Department of Energy Headquarters Building
Sec. 411. Installation of photovoltaic system at Department of Energy headquarters building.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Subtitle C--High-Performance Green Buildings
Sec. 421. Short title.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 422. Findings and purposes.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 423. Definitions.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Part I--Office of High-Performance Green Buildings
Sec. 431. Oversight.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 432. Office of High-Performance Green Buildings.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 433. Green Building Advisory Committee.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 434. Public outreach.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 435. Research and development.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 436. Budget and life-cycle costing and contracting.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 437. Authorization of appropriations.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Part II--Healthy High-Performance Schools
Sec. 441. Definition of high-performance school.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 442. Grants for healthy school environments.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 443. Model guidelines for siting of school facilities.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 444. Public outreach.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 445. Environmental health program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 446. Authorization of appropriations.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Part III--Strengthening Federal Leadership
Sec. 451. Incentives.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 452. Federal procurement.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 453. Federal green building performance.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 454. Storm water runoff requirements for Federal development projects.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Part IV--Demonstration Project
Sec. 461. Coordination of goals.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 462. Authorization of appropriations.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
TITLE V--CORPORATE AVERAGE FUEL ECONOMY STANDARDS
Sec. 501. Short title.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 502. Average fuel economy standards for automobiles and certain other vehicles.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 503. Amending Fuel Economy Standards.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 504. Definitions.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 505. Ensuring safety of automobiles.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 506. Credit Trading Program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 507. Labels for fuel economy and greenhouse gas emissions.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 508. Continued applicability of existing standards.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 509. National Academy of Sciences Studies.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 510. Standards for Executive agency automobiles.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 511. Increasing Consumer Awareness of Flexible Fuel Automobiles.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 512. Periodic review of accuracy of fuel economy labeling procedures.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 513. Tire fuel efficiency consumer information.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 514. Advanced Battery Initiative.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 515. Biodiesel standards.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 516. Use of Civil Penalties for research and development.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 517. Energy Security Fund and Alternative Fuel Grant Program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 518. Authorization of appropriations.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 519. Application with Clean Air Act.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 520. Alternative fuel vehicle action plan.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 521. Study of the adequacy of transportation of domestically-produced renewable fuel by railroads and other modes of transportation.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
TITLE VI--PRICE GOUGING
Sec. 601. Short title.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 602. Definitions.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 603. Prohibition on price gouging during energy emergencies.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 604. Prohibition on market manipulation.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 605. Prohibition on false information.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 606. Presidential declaration of energy emergency.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 607. Enforcement by the Federal Trade Commission.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 608. Enforcement by State Attorneys General.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 609. Penalties.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 610. Effect on other laws.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
TITLE VII--ENERGY DIPLOMACY AND SECURITY
Sec. 701. Short title.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 702. Definitions.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 703. Sense of Congress on energy diplomacy and security.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 704. Strategic energy partnerships.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 705. International energy crisis response mechanisms.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 706. Hemisphere energy cooperation forum.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 707. National Security Council reorganization.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 708. Annual national energy security strategy report.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 709. Appropriate congressional committees defined.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 710. No Oil Producing and Exporting Cartels Act of 2007.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Sec. 711. Convention on Supplementary Compensation for Nuclear Damage contingent cost allocation.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
TITLE VIII--MISCELLANEOUS
Sec. 801. Study of the effect of private wire laws on the development of combined heat and power facilities.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
TITLE IX--RENEWABLE PORTFOLIO STANDARD
Sec. 801. Renewable portfolio standard.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 2. RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER LAW.
Except to the extent expressly provided in this Act or an amendment made by this Act, nothing in this Act or an amendment made by this Act supersedes, limits the authority provided or responsibility conferred by, or authorizes any violation of any provision of law (including a regulation), including any energy or environmental law or regulation.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
TITLE I--BIOFUELS FOR ENERGY SECURITY AND TRANSPORTATION
SEC. 101. SHORT TITLE.
This title may be cited as the `Biofuels for Energy Security and Transportation Act of 2007'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 102. DEFINITIONS.
In this title:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) ADVANCED BIOFUEL-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- The term `advanced biofuel' means fuel derived from renewable biomass other than corn starch.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) INCLUSIONS- The term `advanced biofuel' includes--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) ethanol derived from cellulose, hemicellulose, or lignin;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) ethanol derived from sugar or starch, other than ethanol derived from corn starch;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) ethanol derived from waste material, including crop residue, other vegetative waste material, animal waste, and food waste and yard waste;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iv) diesel-equivalent fuel derived from renewable biomass, including vegetable oil and animal fat;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(v) biogas (including landfill gas and sewage waste treatment gas) produced through the conversion of organic matter from renewable biomass;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(vi) butanol or other alcohols produced through the conversion of organic matter from renewable biomass; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(vii) other fuel derived from cellulosic biomass.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) CELLULOSIC BIOMASS ETHANOL- The term `cellulosic biomass ethanol' means ethanol derived from any cellulose, hemicellulose, or lignin that is derived from renewable biomass.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) CONVENTIONAL BIOFUEL- The term `conventional biofuel' means ethanol derived from corn starch.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) RENEWABLE BIOMASS- The term `renewable biomass' means--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) nonmerchantable materials or precommercial thinnings that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) are byproducts of preventive treatments, such as trees, wood, brush, thinnings, chips, and slash, that are removed--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(I) to reduce hazardous fuels;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(II) to reduce or contain disease or insect infestation; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(III) to restore forest health;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) would not otherwise be used for higher-value products; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) are harvested from National Forest System land or public land (as defined in section 103 of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (
(I) where permitted by law; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(II) in accordance with--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(aa) applicable land management plans; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(bb) the requirements for old-growth maintenance, restoration, and management direction of paragraphs (2), (3), and (4) of subsection (e) and the requirements for large-tree retention of subsection (f) of section 102 of the Healthy Forests Restoration Act of 2003 (
(B) any organic matter that is available on a renewable or recurring basis from non-Federal land or from land belonging to an Indian tribe, or an Indian individual, that is held in trust by the United States or subject to a restriction against alienation imposed by the United States, including--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) renewable plant material, including--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(I) feed grains;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(II) other agricultural commodities;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(III) other plants and trees; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(IV) algae; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) waste material, including--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(I) crop residue;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(II) other vegetative waste material (including wood waste and wood residues);CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(III) animal waste and byproducts (including fats, oils, greases, and manure); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(IV) food waste and yard waste.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) RENEWABLE FUEL-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- The term `renewable fuel' means motor vehicle fuel or home heating fuel that is--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) produced from renewable biomass; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) used to replace or reduce the quantity of fossil fuel present in a fuel or fuel mixture used to operate a motor vehicle or furnace.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) INCLUSION- The term `renewable fuel' includes--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) conventional biofuel; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) advanced biofuel.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(6) SECRETARY- The term `Secretary' means the Secretary of Energy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(7) SMALL REFINERY- The term `small refinery' means a refinery for which the average aggregate daily crude oil throughput for a calendar year (as determined by dividing the aggregate throughput for the calendar year by the number of days in the calendar year) does not exceed 75,000 barrels.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Subtitle A--Renewable Fuel Standard
SEC. 111. RENEWABLE FUEL STANDARD.
(a) Renewable Fuel Program-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) REGULATIONS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the President shall promulgate regulations to ensure that motor vehicle fuel and home heating oil sold or introduced into commerce in the United States (except in noncontiguous States or territories), on an annual average basis, contains the applicable volume of renewable fuel determined in accordance with paragraph (2).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) PROVISIONS OF REGULATIONS- Regardless of the date of promulgation, the regulations promulgated under subparagraph (A)--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) shall contain compliance provisions applicable to refineries, blenders, distributors, and importers, as appropriate, to ensure that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(I) the requirements of this subsection are met; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(II) renewable fuels produced from facilities that commence operations after the date of enactment of this Act achieve at least a 20 percent reduction in life cycle greenhouse gas emissions compared to gasoline; butCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) shall not--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(I) restrict geographic areas in the contiguous United States in which renewable fuel may be used; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(II) impose any per-gallon obligation for the use of renewable fuel.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER REGULATIONS- Regulations promulgated under this paragraph shall, to the maximum extent practicable, incorporate the program structure, compliance, and reporting requirements established under the final regulations promulgated to implement the renewable fuel program established by the amendment made by section 1501(a)(2) of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
(2) APPLICABLE VOLUME-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) CALENDAR YEARS 2008 THROUGH 2022-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) RENEWABLE FUEL- For the purpose of paragraph (1), subject to clause (ii), the applicable volume for any of calendar years 2008 through 2022 shall be determined in accordance with the following table:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
8.5CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
10.5CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
12.0CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
12.6CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
13.2CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
13.8CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
14.4CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
15.0CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
18.0CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
21.0CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
24.0CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
27.0CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
30.0CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
33.0CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
36.0.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) ADVANCED BIOFUELS- For the purpose of paragraph (1), of the volume of renewable fuel required under clause (i), the applicable volume for any of calendar years 2016 through 2022 for advanced biofuels shall be determined in accordance with the following table:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
3.0CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
6.0CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
9.0CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
12.0CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
15.0CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
18.0CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
21.0.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) CALENDAR YEAR 2023 AND THEREAFTER- Subject to subparagraph (C), for the purposes of paragraph (1), the applicable volume for calendar year 2023 and each calendar year thereafter shall be determined by the President, in coordination with the Secretary of Energy, the Secretary of Agriculture, and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, based on a review of the implementation of the program during calendar years 2007 through 2022, including a review of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) the impact of renewable fuels on the energy security of the United States;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) the expected annual rate of future production of renewable fuels, including advanced biofuels;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) the impact of renewable fuels on the infrastructure of the United States, including deliverability of materials, goods, and products other than renewable fuel, and the sufficiency of infrastructure to deliver renewable fuel; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iv) the impact of the use of renewable fuels on other factors, including job creation, the price and supply of agricultural commodities, rural economic development, and the environment.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) MINIMUM APPLICABLE VOLUME- Subject to subparagraph (D), for the purpose of paragraph (1), the applicable volume for calendar year 2023 and each calendar year thereafter shall be equal to the product obtained by multiplying--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) the number of gallons of gasoline that the President estimates will be sold or introduced into commerce in the calendar year; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) the ratio that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(I) 36,000,000,000 gallons of renewable fuel; bears toCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(II) the number of gallons of gasoline sold or introduced into commerce in calendar year 2022.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) MINIMUM PERCENTAGE OF ADVANCED BIOFUEL- For the purpose of paragraph (1) and subparagraph (C), at least 60 percent of the minimum applicable volume for calendar year 2023 and each calendar year thereafter shall be advanced biofuel.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Applicable Percentages-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) PROVISION OF ESTIMATE OF VOLUMES OF GASOLINE SALES- Not later than October 31 of each of calendar years 2008 through 2021, the Administrator of the Energy Information Administration shall provide to the President an estimate, with respect to the following calendar year, of the volumes of gasoline projected to be sold or introduced into commerce in the United States.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) DETERMINATION OF APPLICABLE PERCENTAGES-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- Not later than November 30 of each of calendar years 2008 through 2022, based on the estimate provided under paragraph (1), the President shall determine and publish in the Federal Register, with respect to the following calendar year, the renewable fuel obligation that ensures that the requirements of subsection (a) are met.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) REQUIRED ELEMENTS- The renewable fuel obligation determined for a calendar year under subparagraph (A) shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) be applicable to refineries, blenders, and importers, as appropriate;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) be expressed in terms of a volume percentage of gasoline sold or introduced into commerce in the United States; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) subject to paragraph (3)(A), consist of a single applicable percentage that applies to all categories of persons specified in clause (i).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) ADJUSTMENTS- In determining the applicable percentage for a calendar year, the President shall make adjustments--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) to prevent the imposition of redundant obligations on any person specified in paragraph (2)(B)(i); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) to account for the use of renewable fuel during the previous calendar year by small refineries that are exempt under subsection (g).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Volume Conversion Factors for Renewable Fuels Based on Energy Content or Requirements-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- For the purpose of subsection (a), the President shall assign values to specific types of advanced biofuels for the purpose of satisfying the fuel volume requirements of subsection (a)(2) in accordance with this subsection.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) ENERGY CONTENT RELATIVE TO ETHANOL- For advanced biofuel, 1 gallon of the advanced biofuel shall be considered to be the equivalent of 1 gallon of renewable fuel multiplied by the ratio that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) the number of British thermal units of energy produced by the combustion of 1 gallon of the advanced biofuel (as measured under conditions determined by the Secretary); bears toCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) the number of British thermal units of energy produced by the combustion of 1 gallon of pure ethanol (as measured under conditions determined by the Secretary to be comparable to conditions described in subparagraph (A)).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) TRANSITIONAL ENERGY-RELATED CONVERSION FACTORS FOR CELLULOSIC BIOMASS ETHANOL- For any of calendar years 2008 through 2015, 1 gallon of cellulosic biomass ethanol shall be considered to be the equivalent of 2.5 gallons of renewable fuel.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(d) Credit Program-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- The President, in consultation with the Secretary and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, shall implement a credit program to manage the renewable fuel requirement of this section in a manner consistent with the credit program established by the amendment made by section 1501(a)(2) of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
(2) MARKET TRANSPARENCY- In carrying out the credit program under this subsection, the President shall facilitate price transparency in markets for the sale and trade of credits, with due regard for the public interest, the integrity of those markets, fair competition, and the protection of consumers and agricultural producers.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(e) Seasonal Variations in Renewable Fuel Use-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) STUDY- For each of calendar years 2008 through 2022, the Administrator of the Energy Information Administration shall conduct a study of renewable fuel blending to determine whether there are excessive seasonal variations in the use of renewable fuel.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) REGULATION OF EXCESSIVE SEASONAL VARIATIONS- If, for any calendar year, the Administrator of the Energy Information Administration, based on the study under paragraph (1), makes the determinations specified in paragraph (3), the President shall promulgate regulations to ensure that 25 percent or more of the quantity of renewable fuel necessary to meet the requirements of subsection (a) is used during each of the 2 periods specified in paragraph (4) of each subsequent calendar year.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) DETERMINATIONS- The determinations referred to in paragraph (2) are that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) less than 25 percent of the quantity of renewable fuel necessary to meet the requirements of subsection (a) has been used during 1 of the 2 periods specified in paragraph (4) of the calendar year;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) a pattern of excessive seasonal variation described in subparagraph (A) will continue in subsequent calendar years; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) promulgating regulations or other requirements to impose a 25 percent or more seasonal use of renewable fuels will not significantly--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) increase the price of motor fuels to the consumer; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) prevent or interfere with the attainment of national ambient air quality standards.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) PERIODS- The 2 periods referred to in this subsection are--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) April through September; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) January through March and October through December.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(f) Waivers-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- The President, in consultation with the Secretary of Energy, the Secretary of Agriculture, and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, may waive the requirements of subsection (a) in whole or in part on petition by one or more States by reducing the national quantity of renewable fuel required under subsection (a), based on a determination by the President (after public notice and opportunity for comment), that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) implementation of the requirement would severely harm the economy or environment of a State, a region, or the United States; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) extreme and unusual circumstances exist that prevent distribution of an adequate supply of domestically-produced renewable fuel to consumers in the United States.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) PETITIONS FOR WAIVERS- The President, in consultation with the Secretary of Energy, the Secretary of Agriculture, and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, shall approve or disapprove a State petition for a waiver of the requirements of subsection (a) within 30 days after the date on which the petition is received by the President.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) TERMINATION OF WAIVERS- A waiver granted under paragraph (1) shall terminate after 1 year, but may be renewed by the President after consultation with the Secretary of Energy, the Secretary of Agriculture, and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(g) Small Refineries-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) TEMPORARY EXEMPTION-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- The requirements of subsection (a) shall not apply to--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) small refineries (other than a small refinery described in clause (ii)) until calendar year 2013; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) small refineries owned by a small business refiner (as defined in section 45H(c) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986) until calendar year 2015.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) EXTENSION OF EXEMPTION-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) STUDY BY SECRETARY- Not later than December 31, 2008, the Secretary shall submit to the President and Congress a report describing the results of a study to determine whether compliance with the requirements of subsection (a) would impose a disproportionate economic hardship on small refineries.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) EXTENSION OF EXEMPTION- In the case of a small refinery that the Secretary determines under clause (i) would be subject to a disproportionate economic hardship if required to comply with subsection (a), the President shall extend the exemption under subparagraph (A) for the small refinery for a period of not less than 2 additional years.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) PETITIONS BASED ON DISPROPORTIONATE ECONOMIC HARDSHIP-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) EXTENSION OF EXEMPTION- A small refinery may at any time petition the President for an extension of the exemption under paragraph (1) for the reason of disproportionate economic hardship.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) EVALUATION OF PETITIONS- In evaluating a petition under subparagraph (A), the President, in consultation with the Secretary, shall consider the findings of the study under paragraph (1)(B) and other economic factors.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) DEADLINE FOR ACTION ON PETITIONS- The President shall act on any petition submitted by a small refinery for a hardship exemption not later than 90 days after the date of receipt of the petition.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) OPT-IN FOR SMALL REFINERIES- A small refinery shall be subject to the requirements of subsection (a) if the small refinery notifies the President that the small refinery waives the exemption under paragraph (1).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(h) Penalties and Enforcement-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) CIVIL PENALTIES-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- Any person that violates a regulation promulgated under subsection (a), or that fails to furnish any information required under such a regulation, shall be liable to the United States for a civil penalty of not more than the total of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) $25,000 for each day of the violation; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) the amount of economic benefit or savings received by the person resulting from the violation, as determined by the President.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) COLLECTION- Civil penalties under subparagraph (A) shall be assessed by, and collected in a civil action brought by, the Secretary or such other officer of the United States as is designated by the President.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) INJUNCTIVE AUTHORITY-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- The district courts of the United States shall have jurisdiction to--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) restrain a violation of a regulation promulgated under subsection (a);CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) award other appropriate relief; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) compel the furnishing of information required under the regulation.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) ACTIONS- An action to restrain such violations and compel such actions shall be brought by and in the name of the United States.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) SUBPOENAS- In the action, a subpoena for a witness who is required to attend a district court in any district may apply in any other district.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) Voluntary Labeling Program-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- The President shall establish criteria for a system of voluntary labeling of renewable fuels based on life cycle greenhouse gas emissions.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) CONSUMER EDUCATION- The President shall ensure that the labeling system under this subsection provides useful information to consumers making fuel purchases.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) FLEXIBILITY- In carrying out this subsection, the President may establish more than 1 label, as appropriate.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(j) Study of Impact of Renewable Fuel Standard-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- The Secretary shall enter into an arrangement with the National Academy of Sciences under which the Academy shall conduct a study to assess the impact of the requirements described in subsection (a)(2) on each industry relating to the production of feed grains, livestock, food, and energy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) PARTICIPATION- In conducting the study under paragraph (1), the National Academy of Sciences shall seek the participation, and consider the input, of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) producers of feed grains;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) producers of livestock, poultry, and pork products;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) producers of food and food products;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) producers of energy;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(E) individuals and entities interested in issues relating to conservation, the environment, and nutrition; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(F) users of renewable fuels.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) CONSIDERATIONS- In conducting the study, the National Academy of Sciences shall consider--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) the likely impact on domestic animal agriculture feedstocks that, in any crop year, are significantly below current projections; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) policy options to alleviate the impact on domestic animal agriculture feedstocks that are significantly below current projections.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) COMPONENTS- The study shall include--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) a description of the conditions under which the requirements described in subsection (a)(2) should be suspended or reduced to prevent adverse impacts to domestic animal agriculture feedstocks described in paragraph (3)(B); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) recommendations for the means by which the Federal Government could prevent or minimize adverse economic hardships and impacts.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) DEADLINE FOR COMPLETION OF STUDY- Not later than 270 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report that describes the results of the study.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(6) PERIODIC REVIEWS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- To allow for the appropriate adjustment of the requirements described in subsection (a)(2), the Secretary shall conduct periodic reviews of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) existing technologies;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) the feasibility of achieving compliance with the requirements; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) the impacts of the requirements described in subsection (a)(2) on each individual and entity described in paragraph (2).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(k) Effective Date- Except as otherwise specifically provided in this section, this section takes effect on the date on which the National Academies of Science completes the study under subsection (j).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 112. PRODUCTION OF RENEWABLE FUEL USING RENEWABLE ENERGY.
(a) Definitions- In this section:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) FACILITY- The term `facility' means a facility used for the production of renewable fuel.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) RENEWABLE ENERGY-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- The term `renewable energy' has the meaning given the term in section 203(b) of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
(B) INCLUSION- The term `renewable energy' includes biogas produced through the conversion of organic matter from renewable biomass.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Additional Credit-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- The President shall provide a credit under the program established under section 111(d) to the owner of a facility that uses renewable energy to displace more than 90 percent of the fossil fuel normally used in the production of renewable fuel.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) CREDIT AMOUNT- The President may provide the credit in a quantity that is not more than the equivalent of 1.5 gallons of renewable fuel for each gallon of renewable fuel produced in a facility described in paragraph (1).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 113. SENSE OF CONGRESS RELATING TO THE USE OF RENEWABLE RESOURCES TO GENERATE ENERGY.
(a) Findings- Congress finds that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) the United States has a quantity of renewable energy resources that is sufficient to supply a significant portion of the energy needs of the United States;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) the agricultural, forestry, and working land of the United States can help ensure a sustainable domestic energy system;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) accelerated development and use of renewable energy technologies provide numerous benefits to the United States, including improved national security, improved balance of payments, healthier rural economies, improved environmental quality, and abundant, reliable, and affordable energy for all citizens of the United States;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) the production of transportation fuels from renewable energy would help the United States meet rapidly growing domestic and global energy demands, reduce the dependence of the United States on energy imported from volatile regions of the world that are politically unstable, stabilize the cost and availability of energy, and safeguard the economy and security of the United States;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) increased energy production from domestic renewable resources would attract substantial new investments in energy infrastructure, create economic growth, develop new jobs for the citizens of the United States, and increase the income for farm, ranch, and forestry jobs in the rural regions of the United States;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(6) increased use of renewable energy is practical and can be cost effective with the implementation of supportive policies and proper incentives to stimulate markets and infrastructure; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(7) public policies aimed at enhancing renewable energy production and accelerating technological improvements will further reduce energy costs over time and increase market demand.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Sense of Congress- It is the sense of Congress that it is the goal of the United States that, not later than January 1, 2025, the agricultural, forestry, and working land of the United States should--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) provide from renewable resources not less than 25 percent of the total energy consumed in the United States; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) continue to produce safe, abundant, and affordable food, feed, and fiber.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Subtitle B--Renewable Fuels Infrastructure
SEC. 121. INFRASTRUCTURE PILOT PROGRAM FOR RENEWABLE FUELS.
(a) In General- The Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of Transportation and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, shall establish a competitive grant pilot program (referred to in this section as the `pilot program'), to be administered through the Vehicle Technology Deployment Program of the Department of Energy, to provide not more than 10 geographically-dispersed project grants to State governments, Indian tribal governments, local governments, metropolitan transportation authorities, or partnerships of those entities to carry out 1 or more projects for the purposes described in subsection (b).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Grant Purposes- A grant under this section shall be used for the establishment of refueling infrastructure corridors, as designated by the Secretary, for gasoline blends that contain not less than 11 percent, and not more than 85 percent, renewable fuel or diesel fuel that contains at least 10 percent renewable fuel, including--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) installation of infrastructure and equipment necessary to ensure adequate distribution of renewable fuels within the corridor;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) installation of infrastructure and equipment necessary to directly support vehicles powered by renewable fuels; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) operation and maintenance of infrastructure and equipment installed as part of a project funded by the grant.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Applications-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) REQUIREMENTS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- Subject to subparagraph (B), not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall issue requirements for use in applying for grants under the pilot program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS- At a minimum, the Secretary shall require that an application for a grant under this section--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) be submitted by--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(I) the head of a State, tribal, or local government or a metropolitan transportation authority, or any combination of those entities; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(II) a registered participant in the Vehicle Technology Deployment Program of the Department of Energy; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) include--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(I) a description of the project proposed in the application, including the ways in which the project meets the requirements of this section;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(II) an estimate of the degree of use of the project, including the estimated size of fleet of vehicles operated with renewable fuel available within the geographic region of the corridor, measured as a total quantity and a percentage;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(III) an estimate of the potential petroleum displaced as a result of the project (measured as a total quantity and a percentage), and a plan to collect and disseminate petroleum displacement and other relevant data relating to the project to be funded under the grant, over the expected life of the project;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(IV) a description of the means by which the project will be sustainable without Federal assistance after the completion of the term of the grant;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(V) a complete description of the costs of the project, including acquisition, construction, operation, and maintenance costs over the expected life of the project; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(VI) a description of which costs of the project will be supported by Federal assistance under this subsection.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) PARTNERS- An applicant under paragraph (1) may carry out a project under the pilot program in partnership with public and private entities.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(d) Selection Criteria- In evaluating applications under the pilot program, the Secretary shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) consider the experience of each applicant with previous, similar projects; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) give priority consideration to applications that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) are most likely to maximize displacement of petroleum consumption, measured as a total quantity and a percentage;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) are best able to incorporate existing infrastructure while maximizing, to the extent practicable, the use of advanced biofuels;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) demonstrate the greatest commitment on the part of the applicant to ensure funding for the proposed project and the greatest likelihood that the project will be maintained or expanded after Federal assistance under this subsection is completed;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) represent a partnership of public and private entities; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(E) exceed the minimum requirements of subsection (c)(1)(B).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(e) Pilot Project Requirements-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) MAXIMUM AMOUNT- The Secretary shall provide not more than $20,000,000 in Federal assistance under the pilot program to any applicant.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) COST SHARING- The non-Federal share of the cost of any activity relating to renewable fuel infrastructure development carried out using funds from a grant under this section shall be not less than 20 percent.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) MAXIMUM PERIOD OF GRANTS- The Secretary shall not provide funds to any applicant under the pilot program for more than 2 years.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) DEPLOYMENT AND DISTRIBUTION- The Secretary shall seek, to the maximum extent practicable, to ensure a broad geographic distribution of project sites funded by grants under this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) TRANSFER OF INFORMATION AND KNOWLEDGE- The Secretary shall establish mechanisms to ensure that the information and knowledge gained by participants in the pilot program are transferred among the pilot program participants and to other interested parties, including other applicants that submitted applications.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(f) Schedule-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) INITIAL GRANTS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall publish in the Federal Register, Commerce Business Daily, and such other publications as the Secretary considers to be appropriate, a notice and request for applications to carry out projects under the pilot program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) DEADLINE- An application described in subparagraph (A) shall be submitted to the Secretary by not later than 180 days after the date of publication of the notice under that subparagraph.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) INITIAL SELECTION- Not later than 90 days after the date by which applications for grants are due under subparagraph (B), the Secretary shall select by competitive, peer-reviewed proposal up to 5 applications for projects to be awarded a grant under the pilot program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) ADDITIONAL GRANTS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall publish in the Federal Register, Commerce Business Daily, and such other publications as the Secretary considers to be appropriate, a notice and request for additional applications to carry out projects under the pilot program that incorporate the information and knowledge obtained through the implementation of the first round of projects authorized under the pilot program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) DEADLINE- An application described in subparagraph (A) shall be submitted to the Secretary by not later than 180 days after the date of publication of the notice under that subparagraph.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) INITIAL SELECTION- Not later than 90 days after the date by which applications for grants are due under subparagraph (B), the Secretary shall select by competitive, peer-reviewed proposal such additional applications for projects to be awarded a grant under the pilot program as the Secretary determines to be appropriate.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(g) Reports to Congress-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) INITIAL REPORT- Not later than 60 days after the date on which grants are awarded under this section, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report containing--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) an identification of the grant recipients and a description of the projects to be funded under the pilot program;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) an identification of other applicants that submitted applications for the pilot program but to which funding was not provided; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) a description of the mechanisms used by the Secretary to ensure that the information and knowledge gained by participants in the pilot program are transferred among the pilot program participants and to other interested parties, including other applicants that submitted applications.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) EVALUATION- Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter until the termination of the pilot program, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report containing an evaluation of the effectiveness of the pilot program, including an assessment of the petroleum displacement and benefits to the environment derived from the projects included in the pilot program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(h) Authorization of Appropriations- There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section $200,000,000, to remain available until expended.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 122. BIOENERGY RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT.
Section 931(c) of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
(1) in paragraph (2), by striking `$251,000,000' and inserting `$377,000,000'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) in paragraph (3), by striking `$274,000,000' and inserting `$398,000,000'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 123. BIORESEARCH CENTERS FOR SYSTEMS BIOLOGY PROGRAM.
Section 977(a)(1) of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
SEC. 124. LOAN GUARANTEES FOR RENEWABLE FUEL FACILITIES.
(a) In General- Section 1703 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
`(f) Renewable Fuel Facilities-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) IN GENERAL- The Secretary may make guarantees under this title for projects that produce advanced biofuel (as defined in section 102 of the Biofuels for Energy Security and Transportation Act of 2007).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) REQUIREMENTS- A project under this subsection shall employ new or significantly improved technologies for the production of renewable fuels as compared to commercial technologies in service in the United States at the time that the guarantee is issued.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(3) ISSUANCE OF FIRST LOAN GUARANTEES- The requirement of section 20320(b) of division B of the Continuing Appropriations Resolution, 2007 (
`(4) PROJECT DESIGN- A project for which a guarantee is made under this subsection shall have a project design that has been validated through the operation of a continuous process pilot facility with an annual output of at least 50,000 gallons of ethanol or the energy equivalent volume of other advanced biofuels.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(5) MAXIMUM GUARANTEED PRINCIPAL- The total principal amount of a loan guaranteed under this subsection may not exceed $250,000,000 for a single facility.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(6) AMOUNT OF GUARANTEE- The Secretary shall guarantee 100 percent of the principal and interest due on 1 or more loans made for a facility that is the subject of the guarantee under paragraph (3).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(7) DEADLINE- The Secretary shall approve or disapprove an application for a guarantee under this subsection not later than 90 days after the date of receipt of the application.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(8) REPORT- Not later than 30 days after approving or disapproving an application under paragraph (7), the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report on the approval or disapproval (including the reasons for the action).'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Improvements to Underlying Loan Guarantee Authority-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) DEFINITION OF COMMERCIAL TECHNOLOGY- Section 1701(1) of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
`(B) EXCLUSION- The term `commercial technology' does not include a technology if the sole use of the technology is in connection with--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) a demonstration plant; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) a project for which the Secretary approved a loan guarantee.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) SPECIFIC APPROPRIATION OR CONTRIBUTION- Section 1702 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
`(b) Specific Appropriation or Contribution-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) IN GENERAL- No guarantee shall be made unless--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) an appropriation for the cost has been made; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) the Secretary has received from the borrower a payment in full for the cost of the obligation and deposited the payment into the Treasury.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) LIMITATION- The source of payments received from a borrower under paragraph (1)(B) shall not be a loan or other debt obligation that is made or guaranteed by the Federal Government.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(3) RELATION TO OTHER LAWS- Section 504(b) of the Federal Credit Reform Act of 1990 (
(3) AMOUNT- Section 1702 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
`(c) Amount-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) IN GENERAL- Subject to paragraph (2), the Secretary shall guarantee up to 100 percent of the principal and interest due on 1 or more loans for a facility that are the subject of the guarantee.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) LIMITATION- The total amount of loans guaranteed for a facility by the Secretary shall not exceed 80 percent of the total cost of the facility, as estimated at the time at which the guarantee is issued.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) SUBROGATION- Section 1702(g)(2) of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
(A) by striking subparagraph (B); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) by redesignating subparagraph (C) as subparagraph (B).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) FEES- Section 1702(h) of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
`(2) AVAILABILITY- Fees collected under this subsection shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) be deposited by the Secretary into a special fund in the Treasury to be known as the `Incentives For Innovative Technologies Fund'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) remain available to the Secretary for expenditure, without further appropriation or fiscal year limitation, for administrative expenses incurred in carrying out this title.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 125. GRANTS FOR RENEWABLE FUEL PRODUCTION RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT IN CERTAIN STATES.
(a) In General- The Secretary shall provide grants to eligible entities to conduct research into, and develop and implement, renewable fuel production technologies in States with low rates of ethanol production, including low rates of production of cellulosic biomass ethanol, as determined by the Secretary.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Eligibility- To be eligible to receive a grant under the section, an entity shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1)(A) be an institution of higher education (as defined in section 2 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
(B) be an institution--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) referred to in section 532 of the Equity in Educational Land-Grant Status Act of 1994 (
(ii) that is eligible for a grant under the Tribally Controlled College or University Assistance Act of 1978 (
(iii) that is eligible for a grant under the Navajo Community College Act (
(C) be a consortium of such institutions of higher education, industry, State agencies, Indian tribal agencies, or local government agencies located in the State; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) have proven experience and capabilities with relevant technologies.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Authorization of Appropriations- There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $25,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2008 through 2010.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 126. GRANTS FOR INFRASTRUCTURE FOR TRANSPORTATION OF BIOMASS TO LOCAL BIOREFINERIES.
(a) In General- The Secretary shall conduct a program under which the Secretary shall provide grants to Indian tribal and local governments and other eligible entities (as determined by the Secretary) (referred to in this section as `eligible entities') to promote the development of infrastructure to support the separation, production, processing, and transportation of biomass to local biorefineries, including by portable processing equipment.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Phases- The Secretary shall conduct the program in the following phases:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) DEVELOPMENT- In the first phase of the program, the Secretary shall make grants to eligible entities to assist the eligible entities in the development of local projects to promote the development of infrastructure to support the separation, production, processing, and transportation of biomass to local biorefineries, including by portable processing equipment.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) IMPLEMENTATION- In the second phase of the program, the Secretary shall make competitive grants to eligible entities to implement projects developed under paragraph (1).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Authorization of Appropriations- There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as are necessary to carry out this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 127. BIOREFINERY INFORMATION CENTER.
(a) In General- The Secretary, in cooperation with the Secretary of Agriculture, shall establish a biorefinery information center to make available to interested parties information on--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) renewable fuel resources, including information on programs and incentives for renewable fuels;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) renewable fuel producers;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) renewable fuel users; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) potential renewable fuel users.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Administration- In administering the biorefinery information center, the Secretary shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) continually update information provided by the center;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) make information available to interested parties on the process for establishing a biorefinery; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) make information and assistance provided by the center available through a toll-free telephone number and website.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Authorization of Appropriations- There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as are necessary to carry out this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 128. ALTERNATIVE FUEL DATABASE AND MATERIALS.
The Secretary and the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology shall jointly establish and make available to the public--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) a database that describes the physical properties of different types of alternative fuel; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) standard reference materials for different types of alternative fuel.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 129. FUEL TANK CAP LABELING REQUIREMENT.
Section 406(a) of the Energy Policy Act of 1992 (
(1) by striking `The Federal Trade Commission' and inserting the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) IN GENERAL- The Federal Trade Commission'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) by adding at the end the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) FUEL TANK CAP LABELING REQUIREMENT- Beginning with model year 2010, the fuel tank cap of each alternative fueled vehicle manufactured for sale in the United States shall be clearly labeled to inform consumers that such vehicle can operate on alternative fuel.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 130. BIODIESEL.
(a) In General- Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report on any research and development challenges inherent in increasing to 5 percent the proportion of diesel fuel sold in the United States that is biodiesel (as defined in section 757 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
(b) Regulations- The President shall promulgate regulations providing for the uniform labeling of biodiesel blends that are certified to meet applicable standards published by the American Society for Testing and Materials.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) National Biodiesel Fuel Quality Standard-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) QUALITY REGULATIONS- Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the President shall promulgate regulations to ensure that each diesel-equivalent fuel derived from renewable biomass and introduced into interstate commerce is tested and certified to comply with applicable standards of the American Society for Testing and Materials.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) ENFORCEMENT- The President shall ensure that all biodiesel entering interstate commerce meets the requirements of paragraph (1).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) FUNDING- There are authorized to be appropriated to the President to carry out this section:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) $3,000,000 for fiscal year 2008.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) $3,000,000 for fiscal year 2009.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) $3,000,000 for fiscal year 2010.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 131. TRANSITIONAL ASSISTANCE FOR FARMERS WHO PLANT DEDICATED ENERGY CROPS FOR A LOCAL CELLULOSIC REFINERY.
(a) Definitions- In this section:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) CELLULOSIC CROP- The term `cellulosic crop' means a tree or grass that is grown specifically--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) to provide raw materials (including feedstocks) for conversion to liquid transportation fuels or chemicals through biochemical or thermochemical processes; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) for energy generation through combustion, pyrolysis, or cofiring.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) CELLULOSIC REFINER- The term `cellulosic refiner' means the owner or operator of a cellulosic refinery.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) CELLULOSIC REFINERY- The term `cellulosic refinery' means a refinery that processes a cellulosic crop.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) QUALIFIED CELLULOSIC CROP- The term `qualified cellulosic crop' means, with respect to an agricultural producer, a cellulosic crop that is--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) the subject of a contract or memorandum of understanding between the producer and a cellulosic refiner, under which the producer is obligated to sell the crop to the cellulosic refiner by a certain date; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) produced not more than 70 miles from a cellulosic refinery owned or operated by the cellulosic refiner.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) SECRETARY- The term `Secretary' means the Secretary of Agriculture.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Transitional Assistance Payments- The Secretary shall make transitional assistance payments to an agricultural producer during the first year in which the producer devotes land to the production of a qualified cellulosic crop.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Amount of Payment-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) DETERMINED BY FORMULA- Subject to paragraph (2), the Secretary shall devise a formula to be used to calculate the amount of a payment to be made to an agricultural producer under this section, based on the opportunity cost (as determined in accordance with such standard as the Secretary may establish, taking into consideration land rental rates and other applicable costs) incurred by the producer during the first year in which the producer devotes land to the production of the qualified cellulosic crop.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) LIMITATION- The total of the amount paid to a producer under this section shall not exceed an amount equal to 25 percent of the amounts made available under subsection (e) for the applicable fiscal year.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(d) Regulations- The Secretary shall promulgate such regulations as the Secretary determines to be necessary to carry out this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(e) Authorization of Appropriations- There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $4,088,000 for each of fiscal years 2008 through 2012, to remain available until expended.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 132. RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT IN SUPPORT OF LOW-CARBON FUELS.
(a) Declaration of Policy- Congress declares that, in order to achieve maximum reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, enhance national security, and ensure the protection of wildlife habitat, biodiversity, water quality, air quality, and rural and regional economies throughout the lifecycle of each low-carbon fuel, it is necessary and desirable to undertake a combination of basic and applied research, as well as technology development and demonstration, involving the colleges and universities of the United States, in partnership with the Federal Government, State governments, and the private sector.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Purpose- The purpose of this section is to provide for research support to facilitate the development of sustainable markets and technologies to produce and use woody biomass and other low-carbon fuels for the production of thermal and electric energy, biofuels, and bioproducts.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Definition of Fuel Emission Baseline- In this section, the term `fuel emission baseline' means the average lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions per unit of energy of the fossil fuel component of conventional transportation fuels in commerce in the United States in calendar year 2008, as determined by the President.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(d) Grant Program- The President shall establish a program to provide to eligible entities (as identified by the President) grants for use in--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) providing financial support for not more than 4 nor less than 6 demonstration facilities that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) use woody biomass to deploy advanced technologies for production of thermal and electric energy, biofuels, and bioproducts; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) are targeted at regional feedstocks and markets;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) conducting targeted research for the development of cellulosic ethanol and other liquid fuels from woody or other biomass that may be used in transportation or stationary applications, such as industrial processes or industrial, commercial, and residential heating;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) conducting research into the best scientifically-based and periodically-updated methods of assessing and certifying the impacts of each low-carbon fuel with respect to--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) the reduction in lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions of each fuel as compared to--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) the fuel emission baseline; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) the greenhouse gas emissions of other sectors, such as the agricultural, industrial, and manufacturing sectors;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) the contribution of the fuel toward enhancing the energy security of the United States by displacing imported petroleum and petroleum products;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) any impacts of the fuel on wildlife habitat, biodiversity, water quality, and air quality; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) any effect of the fuel with respect to rural and regional economies;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) conducting research to determine to what extent the use of low-carbon fuels in the transportation sector would impact greenhouse gas emissions in other sectors, such as the agricultural, industrial, and manufacturing sectors;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) conducting research for the development of the supply infrastructure that may provide renewable biomass feedstocks in a consistent, predictable, and environmentally-sustainable manner;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(6) conducting research for the development of supply infrastructure that may provide renewable low-carbon fuels in a consistent, predictable, and environmentally-sustainable manner; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(7) conducting policy research on the global movement of low-carbon fuels in a consistent, predictable, and environmentally-sustainable manner.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(e) Authorization of Appropriations- Of the funding authorized under section 122, there are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) $45,000,000 for fiscal year 2009;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) $50,000,000 for fiscal year 2010;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) $55,000,000 for fiscal year 2011;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) $60,000,000 for fiscal year 2012; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) $65,000,000 for fiscal year 2013.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Subtitle C--Studies
SEC. 141. STUDY OF ADVANCED BIOFUELS TECHNOLOGIES.
(a) In General- Not later than October 1, 2012, the Secretary shall offer to enter into a contract with the National Academy of Sciences under which the Academy shall conduct a study of technologies relating to the production, transportation, and distribution of advanced biofuels.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Scope- In conducting the study, the Academy shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) include an assessment of the maturity of advanced biofuels technologies;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) consider whether the rate of development of those technologies will be sufficient to meet the advanced biofuel standards required under section 111;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) consider the effectiveness of the research and development programs and activities of the Department of Energy relating to advanced biofuel technologies; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) make policy recommendations to accelerate the development of those technologies to commercial viability, as appropriate.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Report- Not later than November 30, 2014, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate and the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives a report describing the results of the study conducted under this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 142. STUDY OF INCREASED CONSUMPTION OF ETHANOL-BLENDED GASOLINE WITH HIGHER LEVELS OF ETHANOL.
(a) In General- The Secretary, in cooperation with the Secretary of Agriculture, the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, and the Secretary of Transportation, and after providing notice and an opportunity for public comment, shall conduct a study of the feasibility of increasing consumption in the United States of ethanol-blended gasoline with levels of ethanol that are not less than 10 percent and not more than 40 percent.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Study- The study under subsection (a) shall include--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) a review of production and infrastructure constraints on increasing consumption of ethanol;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) an evaluation of the economic, market, and energy-related impacts of State and regional differences in ethanol blends;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) an evaluation of the economic, market, and energy-related impacts on gasoline retailers and consumers of separate and distinctly labeled fuel storage facilities and dispensers;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) an evaluation of the environmental impacts of mid-level ethanol blends on evaporative and exhaust emissions from on-road, off-road, and marine engines, recreational boats, vehicles, and equipment;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) an evaluation of the impacts of mid-level ethanol blends on the operation, durability, and performance of on-road, off-road, and marine engines, recreational boats, vehicles, and equipment; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(6) an evaluation of the safety impacts of mid-level ethanol blends on consumers that own and operate off-road and marine engines, recreational boats, vehicles, or equipment.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Report- Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report describing the results of the study conducted under this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 143. PIPELINE FEASIBILITY STUDY.
(a) In General- The Secretary, in coordination with the Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of Transportation, shall conduct a study of the feasibility of the construction of dedicated ethanol pipelines.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Factors- In conducting the study, the Secretary shall consider--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) the quantity of ethanol production that would make dedicated pipelines economically viable;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) existing or potential barriers to dedicated ethanol pipelines, including technical, siting, financing, and regulatory barriers;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) market risk (including throughput risk) and means of mitigating the risk;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) regulatory, financing, and siting options that would mitigate risk in those areas and help ensure the construction of 1 or more dedicated ethanol pipelines;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) financial incentives that may be necessary for the construction of dedicated ethanol pipelines, including the return on equity that sponsors of the initial dedicated ethanol pipelines will require to invest in the pipelines;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(6) technical factors that may compromise the safe transportation of ethanol in pipelines, identifying remedial and preventative measures to ensure pipeline integrity; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(7) such other factors as the Secretary considers appropriate.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Report- Not later than 15 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report describing the results of the study conducted under this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 144. STUDY OF OPTIMIZATION OF FLEXIBLE FUELED VEHICLES TO USE E-85 FUEL.
(a) In General- The Secretary shall conduct a study of methods of increasing the fuel efficiency of flexible fueled vehicles by optimizing flexible fueled vehicles to operate using E-85 fuel.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Report- Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate and the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives a report that describes the results of the study, including any recommendations of the Secretary.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 145. STUDY OF CREDITS FOR USE OF RENEWABLE ELECTRICITY IN ELECTRIC VEHICLES.
(a) Definition of Electric Vehicle- In this section, the term `electric vehicle' means an electric motor vehicle (as defined in section 601 of the Energy Policy Act of 1992 (
(1) receives a charge directly from a source of electric current that is external to the vehicle; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) provides a minimum of 80 percent of the motive power of the vehicle.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Study- The Secretary shall conduct a study on the feasibility of issuing credits under the program established under section 111(d) to electric vehicles powered by electricity produced from renewable energy sources.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Report- Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate and the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives a report that describes the results of the study, including a description of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) existing programs and studies on the use of renewable electricity as a means of powering electric vehicles; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) alternatives for--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) designing a pilot program to determine the feasibility of using renewable electricity to power electric vehicles as an adjunct to a renewable fuels mandate;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) allowing the use, under the pilot program designed under subparagraph (A), of electricity generated from nuclear energy as an additional source of supply;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) identifying the source of electricity used to power electric vehicles; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) equating specific quantities of electricity to quantities of renewable fuel under section 111(d).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 146. STUDY OF ENGINE DURABILITY ASSOCIATED WITH THE USE OF BIODIESEL.
(a) In General- Not later than 30 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall initiate a study on the effects of the use of biodiesel on engine durability.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Components- The study under this section shall include--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) an assessment of whether the use of biodiesel in conventional diesel engines lessens engine durability; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) an assessment of the effects referred to in subsection (a) with respect to biodiesel blends at varying concentrations, including--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) B5;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) B10;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) B20; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) B30.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 147. STUDY OF INCENTIVES FOR RENEWABLE FUELS.
(a) Study- The President shall conduct a study of the renewable fuels industry and markets in the United States, including--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) the costs to produce conventional and advanced biofuels;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) the factors affecting the future market prices for those biofuels, including world oil prices; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) the financial incentives necessary to enhance, to the maximum extent practicable, the biofuels industry of the United States to reduce the dependence of the United States on foreign oil during calendar years 2011 through 2030.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Goals- The study shall include an analysis of the options for financial incentives and the advantage and disadvantages of each option.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Report- Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the President shall submit to Congress a report that describes the results of the study.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 148. STUDY OF STREAMLINED LIFECYCLE ANALYSIS TOOLS FOR THE EVALUATION OF RENEWABLE CARBON CONTENT OF BIOFUELS.
(a) In General- The Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of Agriculture and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, shall conduct a study of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) published methods for evaluating the lifecycle fossil and renewable carbon content of fuels, including conventional and advanced biofuels; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) methods for performing simplified, streamlined lifecycle analyses of the fossil and renewable carbon content of biofuels.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Report- Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate and the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives a report that describes the results of the study under subsection (a), including recommendations for a method for performing a simplified, streamlined lifecycle analysis of the fossil and renewable carbon content of biofuels that includes--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) carbon inputs to feedstock production; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) carbon inputs to the biofuel production process, including the carbon associated with electrical and thermal energy inputs.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 149. STUDY OF EFFECTS OF ETHANOL-BLENDED GASOLINE ON OFF-ROAD VEHICLES.
(a) Study-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- The Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of Transportation and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, shall conduct a study to determine the effects of ethanol-blended gasoline on off-road vehicles and recreational boats.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) EVALUATION- The study shall include an evaluation of the operational, safety, durability, and environmental impacts of ethanol-blended gasoline on off-road and marine engines, recreational boats, and related equipment.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Report- Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report describing the results of the study.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 150. STUDY OF OFFSHORE WIND RESOURCES.
(a) Definitions- In this section:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) ELIGIBLE INSTITUTION- The term `eligible institution' means a college or university that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) as of the date of enactment of this Act, has an offshore wind power research program; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) is located in a region of the United States that is in reasonable proximity to the eastern outer Continental Shelf, as determined by the Secretary.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) SECRETARY- The term `Secretary' means the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Director of the Minerals Management Service.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Study- The Secretary, in cooperation with an eligible institution, as selected by the Secretary, shall conduct a study to assess each offshore wind resource located in the region of the eastern outer Continental Shelf.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Report- Upon completion of the study under subsection (b), the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report that includes--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) a description of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) the locations and total power generation resources of the best offshore wind resources located in the region of the eastern outer Continental Shelf, as determined by the Secretary;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) based on conflicting zones relating to any infrastructure that, as of the date of enactment of this Act, is located in close proximity to any offshore wind resource, the likely exclusion zones of each offshore wind resource described in subparagraph (A);CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) the relationship of the temporal variation of each offshore wind resource described in subparagraph (A) with--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) any other offshore wind resource; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) with loads and corresponding system operator markets;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) the geological compatibility of each offshore wind resource described in subparagraph (A) with any potential technology relating to sea floor towers; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(E) with respect to each area in which an offshore wind resource described in subparagraph (A) is located, the relationship of the authority under any coastal management plan of the State in which the area is located with the Federal Government; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) recommendations on the manner by which to handle offshore wind intermittence.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(d) Incorporation of Study- Effective beginning on the date on which the Secretary completes the study under subsection (b), the Secretary shall incorporate the findings included in the report under subsection (c) into the planning process documents for any wind energy lease sale--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) relating to any offshore wind resource located in any appropriate area of the outer Continental Shelf, as determined by the Secretary; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) that is completed on or after the date of enactment of this Act.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(e) Effect- Nothing in this section--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) delays any final regulation to be promulgated by the Secretary of the Interior to carry out section 8(p) of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (
(2) limits the authority of the Secretary to lease any offshore wind resource located in any appropriate area of the outer Continental Shelf, as determined by the Secretary.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(f) Authorization of Appropriations- There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $5,000,000, to remain available until expended.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Subtitle D--Environmental Safeguards
SEC. 161. GRANTS FOR PRODUCTION OF ADVANCED BIOFUELS.
(a) In General- The Secretary shall establish a grant program to encourage the production of advanced biofuels.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Requirements and Priority- In making grants under this section, the Secretary--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) shall make awards to the proposals for advanced biofuels with the greatest reduction in lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions compared to the comparable motor vehicle fuel lifecycle emissions during calendar year 2007; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) shall not make an award to a project that does not achieve at least a 50-percent reduction in such lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Authorization of Appropriations- There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $500,000,000 for the period of fiscal years 2008 through 2015.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 162. STUDIES OF EFFECTS OF RENEWABLE FUEL USE.
Section 211 of the Clean Air Act (
`(t) Studies of Effects of Renewable Fuel Use-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) IN GENERAL- Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this subsection, the Administrator shall offer to enter into appropriate arrangements with the National Academy of Sciences and any other independent research institute determined to be appropriate by the Administrator, in consultation with appropriate Federal agencies, to conduct 2 studies on the effects of increased domestic use of renewable fuels under the Renewable Fuels, Consumer Protection, and Energy Efficiency Act of 2007.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) MATTERS TO BE STUDIED-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) IN GENERAL- The studies under this subsection shall assess, quantify, and recommend analytical methodologies in relation to environmental changes associated with the increased domestic use of renewable fuels under the Renewable Fuels, Consumer Protection, and Energy Efficiency Act of 2007, including production, handling, transportation, and use of the fuels.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) SPECIFIC MATTERS- The studies shall include an assessment and quantification, to the maximum extent practicable, of significant changes--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) in air and water quality and the quality of other natural resources;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) in land use patterns;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iii) in the rate of deforestation in the United States and globally;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iv) to greenhouse gas emissions;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(v) to significant geographic areas and habitats with high biodiversity values (including species richness, the presence of species that are exclusively native to a place, or the presence of endangered species); orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(vi) in the long-term capacity of the United States to produce biomass feedstocks.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) BASELINE COMPARISON- In making an assessment or quantifying effects of increased use of renewable fuels, the studies shall use an appropriate baseline involving increased use of the conventional transportation fuels, if displacement by use of renewable fuels had not occurred.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(3) REPORTS TO CONGRESS- The Administrator shall submit to Congress a report summarizing the assessments and findings of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) the first study, along with any recommendations by the Administrator to mitigate adverse effects identified by the study, not later than 3 years after the date of enactment of this subsection; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) the second study, along with any recommendations by the Administrator to mitigate adverse effects identified by the study, not later December 31, 2015.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 163. INTEGRATED CONSIDERATION OF WATER QUALITY IN DETERMINATIONS ON FUELS AND FUEL ADDITIVES.
Section 211(c)(1) of the Clean Air Act (
(1) by striking `nonroad vehicle (A) if in the judgment of the Administrator' and inserting `nonroad vehicle--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) if, in the judgment of the Administrator, any fuel or fuel additive or';CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) in subparagraph (A), by striking `air pollution which' and inserting `air pollution or water pollution (including any degradation in the quality of groundwater) that'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) by striking `, or (B) if' and inserting the following: `; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) if'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 164. ANTI-BACKSLIDING.
Section 211 of the Clean Air Act (
`(u) Prevention of Air Quality Deterioration-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) STUDY-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) IN GENERAL- Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of the Renewable Fuels, Consumer Protection, and Energy Efficiency Act of 2007, the Administrator shall complete a study to determine whether the renewable fuel volumes required by that Act will adversely impact air quality as a result of changes in vehicle and engine emissions of air pollutants regulated under this Act.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) CONSIDERATIONS- The study shall include consideration of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) different blend levels, types of renewable fuels, and available vehicle technologies; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) appropriate national, regional, and local air quality control measures.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) REGULATIONS- Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment of the Renewable Fuels, Consumer Protection, and Energy Efficiency Act of 2007, the Administrator shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) promulgate regulations to implement appropriate measures to mitigate, to the greatest extent achievable, considering the results of the study under paragraph (1), any adverse impacts on air quality, as the result of the renewable volumes required by that Act; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) make a determination that no such measures are necessary.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(3) OTHER REQUIREMENTS- Nothing in title I of the Renewable Fuels, Consumer Protection, and Energy Efficiency Act of 2007 supercedes or otherwise affects any Federal or State requirement under any other provision of law that is more stringent than any requirement of this title.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
TITLE II--ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROMOTION
SEC. 201. SHORT TITLE.
This title may be cited as the `Energy Efficiency Promotion Act of 2007'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 202. DEFINITION OF SECRETARY.
In this title, the term `Secretary' means the Secretary of Energy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Subtitle A--Promoting Advanced Lighting Technologies
SEC. 211. ACCELERATED PROCUREMENT OF ENERGY EFFICIENT LIGHTING.
Section 553 of the National Energy Conservation Policy Act (
`(f) Accelerated Procurement of Energy Efficient Lighting-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) IN GENERAL- Not later than October 1, 2013, in accordance with guidelines issued by the Secretary, all general purpose lighting in Federal buildings shall be Energy Star products or products designated under the Federal Energy Management Program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) GUIDELINES-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) IN GENERAL- Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this subsection, the Secretary shall issue guidelines to carry out this subsection.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) REPLACEMENT COSTS- The guidelines shall take into consideration the costs of replacing all general service lighting and the reduced cost of operation and maintenance expected to result from such replacement.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 212. INCANDESCENT REFLECTOR LAMP EFFICIENCY STANDARDS.
(a) Definitions- Section 321 of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (
(1) in paragraph (30)(C)(ii)--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) in the matter preceding subclause (I)--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) by striking `or similar bulb shapes (excluding ER or BR)' and inserting `ER, BR, BPAR, or similar bulb shapes'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) by striking `2.75' and inserting `2.25'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) by striking `is either--' and all that follows through subclause (II) and inserting `has a rated wattage that is 40 watts or higher'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) by adding at the end the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(52) BPAR INCANDESCENT REFLECTOR LAMP- The term `BPAR incandescent reflector lamp' means a reflector lamp as shown in figure C78.21-278 on page 32 of ANSI C78.21-2003.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(53) BR INCANDESCENT REFLECTOR LAMP; BR30; BR40-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) BR INCANDESCENT REFLECTOR LAMP- The term `BR incandescent reflector lamp' means a reflector lamp that has--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) a bulged section below the major diameter of the bulb and above the approximate baseline of the bulb, as shown in figure 1 (RB) on page 7 of ANSI C79.1-1994, incorporated by reference in section 430.22 of title 10, Code of Federal Regulations (as in effect on the date of enactment of this paragraph); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) a finished size and shape shown in ANSI C78.21-1989, including the referenced reflective characteristics in part 7 of ANSI C78.21-1989, incorporated by reference in section 430.22 of title 10, Code of Federal Regulations (as in effect on the date of enactment of this paragraph).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) BR30- The term `BR30' means a BR incandescent reflector lamp with a diameter of 30/8ths of an inch.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) BR40- The term `BR40' means a BR incandescent reflector lamp with a diameter of 40/8ths of an inch.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(54) ER INCANDESCENT REFLECTOR LAMP; ER30; ER40-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) ER INCANDESCENT REFLECTOR LAMP- The term `ER incandescent reflector lamp' means a reflector lamp that has--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) an elliptical section below the major diameter of the bulb and above the approximate baseline of the bulb, as shown in figure 1 (RE) on page 7 of ANSI C79.1-1994, incorporated by reference in section 430.22 of title 10, Code of Federal Regulations (as in effect on the date of enactment of this paragraph); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) a finished size and shape shown in ANSI C78.21-1989, incorporated by reference in section 430.22 of title 10, Code of Federal Regulations (as in effect on the date of enactment of this paragraph).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) ER30- The term `ER30' means an ER incandescent reflector lamp with a diameter of 30/8ths of an inch.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) ER40- The term `ER40' means an ER incandescent reflector lamp with a diameter of 40/8ths of an inch.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(55) R20 INCANDESCENT REFLECTOR LAMP- The term `R20 incandescent reflector lamp' means a reflector lamp that has a face diameter of approximately 2.5 inches, as shown in figure 1(R) on page 7 of ANSI C79.1-1994.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Standards for Fluorescent Lamps and Incandescent Reflector Lamps- Section 325(i) of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (
`(1) STANDARDS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) DEFINITION OF EFFECTIVE DATE- In this paragraph (other than subparagraph (D)), the term `effective date' means, with respect to each type of lamp specified in a table contained in subparagraph (B), the last day of the period of months corresponding to that type of lamp (as specified in the table) that follows October 24, 1992.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) MINIMUM STANDARDS- Each of the following general service fluorescent lamps and incandescent reflector lamps manufactured after the effective date specified in the tables contained in this paragraph shall meet or exceed the following lamp efficacy and CRI standards:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`FLUORESCENT LAMPSCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
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4-foot medium bi-pin >35 W 69 75.0 36 CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
45 75.0 36 CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
2-foot U-shaped >35 W 69 68.0 36 CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
45 64.0 36 CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
8-foot slimline 65 W 69 80.0 18 CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
45 80.0 18 CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
8-foot high output >100 W 69 80.0 18 CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
45 80.0 18 CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
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`INCANDESCENT REFLECTOR LAMPSCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
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40-50 10.5 36 CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
51-66 11.0 36 CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
67-85 12.5 36 CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
86-115 14.0 36 CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
116-155 14.5 36 CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
156-205 15.0 36 CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
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`(C) EXEMPTIONS- The standards specified in subparagraph (B) shall not apply to the following types of incandescent reflector lamps:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) Lamps rated at 50 watts or less that are ER30, BR30, BR40, or ER40 lamps.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) Lamps rated at 65 watts that are BR30, BR40, or ER40 lamps.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iii) R20 incandescent reflector lamps rated 45 watts or less.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(D) EFFECTIVE DATES-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) ER, BR, AND BPAR LAMPS- The standards specified in subparagraph (B) shall apply with respect to ER incandescent reflector lamps, BR incandescent reflector lamps, BPAR incandescent reflector lamps, and similar bulb shapes on and after January 1, 2008.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) LAMPS BETWEEN 2.25-2.75 INCHES IN DIAMETER- The standards specified in subparagraph (B) shall apply with respect to incandescent reflector lamps with a diameter of more than 2.25 inches, but not more than 2.75 inches, on and after January 1, 2008.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 213. BRIGHT TOMORROW LIGHTING PRIZES.
(a) Establishment- Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, as part of the program carried out under section 1008 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
(b) Prize Specifications-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) 60-watt INCANDESCENT REPLACEMENT LAMP PRIZE- The Secretary shall award a 60-Watt Incandescent Replacement Lamp Prize to an entrant that produces a solid-state light package simultaneously capable of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) producing a luminous flux greater than 900 lumens;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) consuming less than or equal to 10 watts;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) having an efficiency greater than 90 lumens per watt;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) having a color rendering index greater than 90;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(E) having a correlated color temperature of not less than 2,750, and not more than 3,000, degrees Kelvin;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(F) having 70 percent of the lumen value under subparagraph (A) exceeding 25,000 hours under typical conditions expected in residential use;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(G) having a light distribution pattern similar to a soft 60-watt incandescent A19 bulb;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(H) having a size and shape that fits within the maximum dimensions of an A19 bulb in accordance with American National Standards Institute standard C78.20-2003, figure C78.20-211;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(I) using a single contact medium screw socket; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(J) mass production for a competitive sales commercial market satisfied by the submission of 10,000 such units equal to or exceeding the criteria described in subparagraphs (A) through (I).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) PAR TYPE 38 HALOGEN REPLACEMENT LAMP PRIZE- The Secretary shall award a Parabolic Aluminized Reflector Type 38 Halogen Replacement Lamp Prize (referred to in this section as the `PAR Type 38 Halogen Replacement Lamp Prize') to an entrant that produces a solid-state-light package simultaneously capable of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) producing a luminous flux greater than or equal to 1,350 lumens;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) consuming less than or equal to 11 watts;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) having an efficiency greater than 123 lumens per watt;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) having a color rendering index greater than or equal to 90;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(E) having a correlated color coordinate temperature of not less than 2,750, and not more than 3,000, degrees Kelvin;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(F) having 70 percent of the lumen value under subparagraph (A) exceeding 25,000 hours under typical conditions expected in residential use;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(G) having a light distribution pattern similar to a PAR 38 halogen lamp;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(H) having a size and shape that fits within the maximum dimensions of a PAR 38 halogen lamp in accordance with American National Standards Institute standard C78-21-2003, figure C78.21-238;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(I) using a single contact medium screw socket; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(J) mass production for a competitive sales commercial market satisfied by the submission of 10,000 such units equal to or exceeding the criteria described in subparagraphs (A) through (I).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) TWENTY-FIRST CENTURY LAMP PRIZE- The Secretary shall award a Twenty-First Century Lamp Prize to an entrant that produces a solid-state-light-light capable of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) producing a light output greater than 1,200 lumens;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) having an efficiency greater than 150 lumens per watt;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) having a color rendering index greater than 90;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) having a color coordinate temperature between 2,800 and 3,000 degrees Kelvin; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(E) having a lifetime exceeding 25,000 hours.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Private Funds- The Secretary may accept and use funding from private sources as part of the prizes awarded under this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(d) Technical Review- The Secretary shall establish a technical review committee composed of non-Federal officers to review entrant data submitted under this section to determine whether the data meets the prize specifications described in subsection (b).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(e) Third Party Administration- The Secretary may competitively select a third party to administer awards under this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(f) Award Amounts- Subject to the availability of funds to carry out this section, the amount of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) the 60-Watt Incandescent Replacement Lamp Prize described in subsection (b)(1) shall be $10,000,000;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) the PAR Type 38 Halogen Replacement Lamp Prize described in subsection (b)(2) shall be $5,000,000; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) the Twenty-First Century Lamp Prize described in subsection (b)(3) shall be $5,000,000.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(g) Federal Procurement of Solid-State-Lights-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) 60-watt INCANDESCENT REPLACEMENT- Subject to paragraph (3), as soon as practicable after the successful award of the 60-Watt Incandescent Replacement Lamp Prize under subsection (b)(1), the Secretary (in consultation with the Administrator of General Services) shall develop governmentwide Federal purchase guidelines with a goal of replacing the use of 60-watt incandescent lamps in Federal Government buildings with a solid-state-light package described in subsection (b)(1) by not later than the date that is 5 years after the date the award is made.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) PAR 38 HALOGEN REPLACEMENT LAMP REPLACEMENT- Subject to paragraph (3), as soon as practicable after the successful award of the PAR Type 38 Halogen Replacement Lamp Prize under subsection (b)(2), the Secretary (in consultation with the Administrator of General Services) shall develop governmentwide Federal purchase guidelines with the goal of replacing the use of PAR 38 halogen lamps in Federal Government buildings with a solid-state-light package described in subsection (b)(2) by not later than the date that is 5 years after the date the award is made.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) WAIVERS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- The Secretary or the Administrator of General Services may waive the application of paragraph (1) or (2) if the Secretary or Administrator determines that the return on investment from the purchase of a solid-state-light package described in paragraph (1) or (2) of subsection (b), respectively, is cost prohibitive.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) REPORT OF WAIVER- If the Secretary or Administrator waives the application of paragraph (1) or (2), the Secretary or Administrator, respectively, shall submit to Congress an annual report that describes the waiver and provides a detailed justification for the waiver.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(h) Report- Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter, the Administrator of General Services shall submit to the Energy Information Agency a report describing the quantity, type, and cost of each lighting product purchased by the Federal Government.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) Bright Light Tomorrow Award Fund-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) ESTABLISHMENT- There is established in the United States Treasury a Bright Light Tomorrow permanent fund without fiscal year limitation to award prizes under paragraphs (1), (2), and (3) of subsection (b).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) SOURCES OF FUNDING- The fund established under paragraph (1) shall accept--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) fiscal year appropriations; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) private contributions authorized under subsection (c).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(j) Authorization of Appropriations- There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as are necessary to carry out this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 214. SENSE OF SENATE CONCERNING EFFICIENT LIGHTING STANDARDS.
(a) Findings- The Senate finds that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) there are approximately 4,000,000,000 screw-based sockets in the United States that contain traditional, energy-inefficient, incandescent light bulbs;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) incandescent light bulbs are based on technology that is more than 125 years old;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) there are radically more efficient lighting alternatives in the market, with the promise of even more choices over the next several years;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) national policy can support a rapid substitution of new, energy-efficient light bulbs for the less efficient products in widespread use; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) transforming the United States market to use of more efficient lighting technologies can--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) reduce electric costs in the United States by more than $18,000,000,000 annually;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) save the equivalent electricity that is produced by 80 base load coal-fired power plants; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) reduce fossil fuel related emissions by approximately 158,000,000 tons each year.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Sense of the Senate- It is the sense of the Senate that the Senate should--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) pass a set of mandatory, technology-neutral standards to establish firm energy efficiency performance targets for lighting products;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) ensure that the standards become effective within the next 10 years; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) in developing the standards--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) establish the efficiency requirements to ensure that replacement lamps will provide consumers with the same quantity of light while using significantly less energy;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) ensure that consumers will continue to have multiple product choices, including energy-saving halogen, incandescent, compact fluorescent, and LED light bulbs; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) work with industry and key stakeholders on measures that can assist consumers and businesses in making the important transition to more efficient lighting.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 215. RENEWABLE ENERGY CONSTRUCTION GRANTS.
(a) Definitions- In this section:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) ALASKA SMALL HYDROELECTRIC POWER- The term `Alaska small hydroelectric power' means power that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) is generated--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) in the State of Alaska;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) without the use of a dam or impoundment of water; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) through the use of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(I) a lake tap (but not a perched alpine lake); orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(II) a run-of-river screened at the point of diversion; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) has a nameplate capacity rating of a wattage that is not more than 15 megawatts.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) ELIGIBLE APPLICANT- The term `eligible applicant' means any--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) governmental entity;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) private utility;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) public utility;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) municipal utility;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(E) cooperative utility;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(F) Indian tribes; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(G) Regional Corporation (as defined in section 3 of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (
(3) OCEAN ENERGY-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) INCLUSIONS- The term `ocean energy' includes current, wave, and tidal energy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) EXCLUSION- The term `ocean energy' excludes thermal energy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT- The term `renewable energy project' means a project--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) for the commercial generation of electricity; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) that generates electricity from--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) solar, wind, or geothermal energy or ocean energy;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) biomass (as defined in section 203(b) of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
(iii) landfill gas; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iv) Alaska small hydroelectric power.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Renewable Energy Construction Grants-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- The Secretary shall use amounts appropriated under this section to make grants for use in carrying out renewable energy projects.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) CRITERIA- Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall set forth criteria for use in awarding grants under this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) APPLICATION- To receive a grant from the Secretary under paragraph (1), an eligible applicant shall submit to the Secretary an application at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may require, including a written assurance that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) all laborers and mechanics employed by contractors or subcontractors during construction, alteration, or repair that is financed, in whole or in part, by a grant under this section shall be paid wages at rates not less than those prevailing on similar construction in the locality, as determined by the Secretary of Labor in accordance with sections 3141-3144, 3146, and 3147 of title 40, United States Code; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) the Secretary of Labor shall, with respect to the labor standards described in this paragraph, have the authority and functions set forth in Reorganization Plan Numbered 14 of 1950 (5 U.S.C. App.) and
(4) NON-FEDERAL SHARE- Each eligible applicant that receives a grant under this subsection shall contribute to the total cost of the renewable energy project constructed by the eligible applicant an amount not less than 50 percent of the total cost of the project.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Authorization of Appropriations- There are authorized to be appropriated to the Fund such sums as are necessary to carry out this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Subtitle B--Expediting New Energy Efficiency Standards
SEC. 221. DEFINITION OF ENERGY CONSERVATION STANDARD.
Section 321 of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (
`(6) ENERGY CONSERVATION STANDARD-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) IN GENERAL- The term `energy conservation standard' means 1 or more performance standards that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) for covered products (excluding clothes washers, dishwashers, showerheads, faucets, water closets, and urinals), prescribe a minimum level of energy efficiency or a maximum quantity of energy use, determined in accordance with test procedures prescribed under section 323;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) for showerheads, faucets, water closets, and urinals, prescribe a minimum level of water efficiency or a maximum quantity of water use, determined in accordance with test procedures prescribed under section 323; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iii) for clothes washers and dishwashers--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(I) prescribe a minimum level of energy efficiency or a maximum quantity of energy use, determined in accordance with test procedures prescribed under section 323; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(II) may include a minimum level of water efficiency or a maximum quantity of water use, determined in accordance with those test procedures.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) INCLUSIONS- The term `energy conservation standard' includes--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) 1 or more design requirements, if the requirements were established--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(I) on or before the date of enactment of this subclause; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(II) as part of a consensus agreement under section 325(hh); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) any other requirements that the Secretary may prescribe under section 325(r).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) EXCLUSION- The term `energy conservation standard' does not include a performance standard for a component of a finished covered product, unless regulation of the component is authorized or established pursuant to this title.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 222. REGIONAL EFFICIENCY STANDARDS FOR HEATING AND COOLING PRODUCTS.
(a) In General- Section 327 of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (
(1) by redesignating subsections (e), (f), and (g) as subsections (f), (g), and (h), respectively; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) by inserting after subsection (d) the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(e) Regional Efficiency Standards for Heating and Cooling Products-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) IN GENERAL-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) DETERMINATION- The Secretary may determine, after notice and comment, that more stringent Federal energy conservation standards are appropriate for furnaces, boilers, or central air conditioning equipment than applicable Federal energy conservation standards.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) FINDING- The Secretary may determine that more stringent standards are appropriate for up to 2 different regions only after finding that the regional standards--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) would contribute to energy savings that are substantially greater than that of a single national energy standard; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) are economically justified.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) REGIONS- On making a determination described in subparagraph (B), the Secretary shall establish the regions so that the more stringent standards would achieve the maximum level of energy savings that is technologically feasible and economically justified.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(D) FACTORS- In determining the appropriateness of 1 or more regional standards for furnaces, boilers, and central and commercial air conditioning equipment, the Secretary shall consider all of the factors described in paragraphs (1) through (4) of section 325(o).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) STATE PETITION- After a determination made by the Secretary under paragraph (1), a State may petition the Secretary requesting a rule that a State regulation that establishes a standard for furnaces, boilers, or central air conditioners become effective at a level determined by the Secretary to be appropriate for the region that includes the State.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(3) RULE- Subject to paragraphs (4) through (7), the Secretary may issue the rule during the period described in paragraph (4) and after consideration of the petition and the comments of interested persons.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(4) PROCEDURE-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) NOTICE- The Secretary shall provide notice of any petition filed under paragraph (2) and afford interested persons a reasonable opportunity to make written comments, including rebuttal comments, on the petition.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) DECISION- Except as provided in subparagraph (C), during the 180-day period beginning on the date on which the petition is filed, the Secretary shall issue the requested rule or deny the petition.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) EXTENSION- The Secretary may publish in the Federal Register a notice--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) extending the period to a specified date, but not longer than 1 year after the date on which the petition is filed; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) describing the reasons for the delay.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(D) DENIALS- If the Secretary denies a petition under this subsection, the Secretary shall publish in the Federal Register notice of, and the reasons for, the denial.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(5) FINDING OF SIGNIFICANT BURDEN ON MANUFACTURING, MARKETING, DISTRIBUTION, SALE, OR SERVICING OF COVERED PRODUCT ON NATIONAL BASIS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) IN GENERAL- The Secretary may not issue a rule under this subsection if the Secretary finds (and publishes the finding) that interested persons have established, by a preponderance of the evidence, that the State regulation will significantly burden manufacturing, marketing, distribution, sale, or servicing of a covered product on a national basis.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) FACTORS- In determining whether to make a finding described in subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall evaluate all relevant factors, including--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) the extent to which the State regulation will increase manufacturing or distribution costs of manufacturers, distributors, and others;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) the extent to which the State regulation will disadvantage smaller manufacturers, distributors, or dealers or lessen competition in the sale of the covered product in the State; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iii) the extent to which the State regulation would cause a burden to manufacturers to redesign and produce the covered product type (or class), taking into consideration the extent to which the regulation would result in a reduction--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(I) in the current models, or in the projected availability of models, that could be shipped on the effective date of the regulation to the State and within the United States; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(II) in the current or projected sales volume of the covered product type (or class) in the State and the United States.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(6) APPLICATION- No State regulation shall become effective under this subsection with respect to any covered product manufactured before the date specified in the determination made by the Secretary under paragraph (1).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(7) PETITION TO WITHDRAW FEDERAL RULE FOLLOWING AMENDMENT OF FEDERAL STANDARD-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) IN GENERAL- If a State has issued a rule under paragraph (3) with respect to a covered product and subsequently a Federal energy conservation standard concerning the product is amended pursuant to section 325, any person subject to the State regulation may file a petition with the Secretary requesting the Secretary to withdraw the rule issued under paragraph (3) with respect to the product in the State.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) BURDEN OF PROOF- The Secretary shall consider the petition in accordance with paragraph (5) and the burden shall be on the petitioner to show by a preponderance of the evidence that the rule received by the State under paragraph (3) should be withdrawn as a result of the amendment to the Federal standard.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) WITHDRAWAL- If the Secretary determines that the petitioner has shown that the rule issued by the Secretary under paragraph (3) should be withdrawn in accordance with subparagraph (B), the Secretary shall withdraw the rule.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Conforming Amendments-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) Section 327 of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (
(A) in subsection (b)--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) in paragraph (2), by striking `subsection (e)' and inserting `subsection (f)'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) in paragraph (3)--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(I) by striking `subsection (f)(1)' and inserting `subsection (g)(1)'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(II) by striking `subsection (f)(2)' and inserting `subsection (g)(2)'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) in subsection (c)(3), by striking `subsection (f)(3)' and inserting `subsection (g)(3)'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) Section 345(b)(2) of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (
`(E) RELATIONSHIP TO CERTAIN STATE REGULATIONS- Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a standard prescribed or established under section 342(a) with respect to the equipment specified in subparagraphs (B), (C), (D), (H), (I), and (J) of section 340 shall not supersede a State regulation that is effective under the terms, conditions, criteria, procedures, and other requirements of section 327(e).'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 223. FURNACE FAN RULEMAKING.
Section 325(f)(3) of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (
`(E) FINAL RULE-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) IN GENERAL- The Secretary shall publish a final rule to carry out this subsection not later than December 31, 2014.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) CRITERIA- The standards shall meet the criteria established under subsection (o).'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 224. EXPEDITED RULEMAKINGS.
(a) Procedure for Prescribing New or Amended Standards- Section 325(p) of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (
`(5) DIRECT FINAL RULES-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) IN GENERAL- On receipt of a statement that is submitted jointly by interested persons that are fairly representative of relevant points of view (including representatives of manufacturers of covered products, States, and efficiency advocates), as determined by the Secretary, and contains recommendations with respect to an energy or water conservation standard--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) if the Secretary determines that the recommended standard contained in the statement is in accordance with subsection (o) or section 342(a)(6)(B), as applicable, the Secretary may issue a final rule that establishes an energy or water conservation standard and is published simultaneously with a notice of proposed rulemaking that proposes a new or amended energy or water conservation standard that is identical to the standard established in the final rule to establish the recommended standard (referred to in this paragraph as a `direct final rule'); orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) if the Secretary determines that a direct final rule cannot be issued based on the statement, the Secretary shall publish a notice of the determination, together with an explanation of the reasons for the determination.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) PUBLIC COMMENT- The Secretary shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) solicit public comment with respect to each direct final rule issued by the Secretary under subparagraph (A)(i); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) publish a response to each comment so received.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) WITHDRAWAL OF DIRECT FINAL RULES-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) IN GENERAL- Not later than 120 days after the date on which a direct final rule issued under subparagraph (A)(i) is published in the Federal Register, the Secretary shall withdraw the direct final rule if--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(I) the Secretary receives 1 or more adverse public comments relating to the direct final rule under subparagraph (B)(i); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(II) based on the complete rulemaking record relating to the direct final rule, the Secretary tentatively determines that the adverse public comments are relevant under subsection (o), section 342(a)(6)(B), or any other applicable law.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) ACTION ON WITHDRAWAL- On withdrawal of a direct final rule under clause (i), the Secretary shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(I) proceed with the notice of proposed rulemaking published simultaneously with the direct final rule as described in subparagraph (A)(i); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(II) publish in the Federal Register the reasons why the direct final rule was withdrawn.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iii) TREATMENT OF WITHDRAWN DIRECT FINAL RULES- A direct final rule that is withdrawn under clause (i) shall not be considered to be a final rule for purposes of subsection (o).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(D) EFFECT OF PARAGRAPH- Nothing in this paragraph authorizes the Secretary to issue a direct final rule based solely on receipt of more than 1 statement containing recommended standards relating to the direct final rule.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Conforming Amendment- Section 345(b)(1) of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (
SEC. 225. PERIODIC REVIEWS.
(a) Test Procedures- Section 323(b)(1) of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (
`(1) TEST PROCEDURES-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) AMENDMENT- At least once every 7 years, the Secretary shall review test procedures for all covered products and--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) amend test procedures with respect to any covered product, if the Secretary determines that amended test procedures would more accurately or fully comply with the requirements of paragraph (3); orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) publish notice in the Federal Register of any determination not to amend a test procedure.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Energy Conservation Standards- Section 325(m) of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (
(1) by designating the first and second sentences as paragraphs (1) and (4), respectively;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) by striking paragraph (1) (as so designated) and inserting the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) IN GENERAL- After issuance of the last final rules required for a product under this part, the Secretary shall, not later than 5 years after the date of issuance of a final rule establishing or amending a standard or determining not to amend a standard, publish a final rule to determine whether standards for the product should or should not be amended based on the criteria in subsection (n)(2).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) ANALYSIS- Prior to publication of the determination, the Secretary shall publish a notice of availability describing the analysis of the Department and provide opportunity for written comment.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(3) FINAL RULE- Not later than 3 years after a positive determination under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall publish a final rule amending the standard for the product.'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) in paragraph (4) (as so designated), by striking `(4) An' and inserting the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(4) APPLICATION OF AMENDMENT- An'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Standards- Section 342(a)(6) of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (
`(6) AMENDED ENERGY EFFICIENCY STANDARDS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) IN GENERAL-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) ANALYSIS OF POTENTIAL ENERGY SAVINGS- If ASHRAE/IES Standard 90.1 is amended with respect to any small commercial package air conditioning and heating equipment, large commercial package air conditioning and heating equipment, very large commercial package air conditioning and heating equipment, packaged terminal air conditioners, packaged terminal heat pumps, warm-air furnaces, packaged boilers, storage water heaters, instantaneous water heaters, or unfired hot water storage tanks, not later than 180 days after the amendment of the standard, the Secretary shall publish in the Federal Register for public comment an analysis of the energy savings potential of amended energy efficiency standards.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) AMENDED UNIFORM NATIONAL STANDARD FOR PRODUCTS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(I) IN GENERAL- Except as provided in subclause (II), not later than 18 months after the date of publication of the amendment to the ASHRAE/IES Standard 90.1 for a product described in clause (i), the Secretary shall establish an amended uniform national standard for the product at the minimum level specified in the amended ASHRAE/IES Standard 90.1.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(II) MORE STRINGENT STANDARD- Subclause (I) shall not apply if the Secretary determines, by rule published in the Federal Register, and supported by clear and convincing evidence, that adoption of a uniform national standard more stringent than the amended ASHRAE/IES Standard 90.1 for the product would result in significant additional conservation of energy and is technologically feasible and economically justified.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iii) RULE- If the Secretary makes a determination described in clause (ii)(II) for a product described in clause (i), not later than 30 months after the date of publication of the amendment to the ASHRAE/IES Standard 90.1 for the product, the Secretary shall issue the rule establishing the amended standard.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(d) Test Procedures- Section 343(a) of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (
`(a) Prescription by Secretary; Requirements-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) TEST PROCEDURES-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) AMENDMENT- At least once every 7 years, the Secretary shall conduct an evaluation of each class of covered equipment and--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) if the Secretary determines that amended test procedures would more accurately or fully comply with the requirements of paragraphs (2) and (3), shall prescribe test procedures for the class in accordance with this section; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) shall publish notice in the Federal Register of any determination not to amend a test procedure.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(e) Effective Date- The amendments made by subsections (b) and (c) take effect on January 1, 2012.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 226. ENERGY EFFICIENCY LABELING FOR CONSUMER ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS.
(a) In General- Section 324(a) of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (
(1) in paragraph (2), by adding at the end the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(H) LABELING REQUIREMENTS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) IN GENERAL- Subject to clauses (ii) through (iv), not later than 18 months after the date of issuance of applicable Department of Energy testing procedures, the Commission, in consultation with the Secretary and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (acting through the Energy Star program), shall, by regulation, promulgate labeling or other disclosure requirements for the energy use of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(I) televisions;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(II) personal computers;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(III) cable or satellite set-top boxes;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(IV) stand-alone digital video recorder boxes; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(V) personal computer monitors.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) ALTERNATE TESTING PROCEDURES- In the absence of applicable testing procedures described in clause (i) for products described in subclauses (I) through (V) of that clause, the Commission may by regulation promulgate labeling requirements for a consumer product category described in clause (i) if the Commission--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(I) identifies adequate non-Department of Energy testing procedures for those products; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(II) determines that labeling of those products is likely to assist consumers in making purchasing decisions.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iii) DEADLINE AND REQUIREMENTS FOR LABELING-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(I) DEADLINE- Not later than 18 months after the date of promulgation of any requirements under clause (i) or (ii), the Commission shall require labeling of electronic products described in clause (i).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(II) REQUIREMENTS- The requirements promulgated under clause (i) or (ii) may include specific requirements for each electronic product to be labeled with respect to the placement, size, and content of Energy Guide labels.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iv) DETERMINATION OF FEASIBILITY- Clause (i) or (ii) shall not apply in any case in which the Commission determines that labeling in accordance with this subsection--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(I) is not technologically or economically feasible; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(II) is not likely to assist consumers in making purchasing decisions.'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) by adding at the end the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(6) AUTHORITY TO INCLUDE ADDITIONAL PRODUCT CATEGORIES- The Commission may require labeling in accordance with this subsection for any consumer product not specified in this subsection or section 322 if the Commission determines that labeling for the product is likely to assist consumers in making purchasing decisions.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Content of Label- Section 324(c) of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (
`(9) DISCRETIONARY APPLICATION- The Commission may apply paragraphs (1), (2), (3), (5), and (6) of this subsection to the labeling of any product covered by paragraph (2)(H) or (6) of subsection (a).'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 227. RESIDENTIAL BOILER EFFICIENCY STANDARDS.
Section 325(f) of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (
(1) by redesignating paragraph (3) as paragraph (4); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) by inserting after paragraph (2) the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(3) BOILERS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) IN GENERAL- Subject to subparagraphs (B) and (C), boilers manufactured on or after September 1, 2012, shall meet the following requirements:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
` CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Gas Hot Water 82% No Constant Burning Pilot,Automatic Means for Adjusting Water Temperature CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Gas Steam 80% No Constant Burning Pilot CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Oil Hot Water 84% Automatic Means for Adjusting Temperature CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Oil Steam 82% None CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Electric Hot Water None Automatic Means for Adjusting Temperature CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Electric Steam None None CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) PILOTS- The manufacturer shall not equip gas hot water or steam boilers with constant-burning pilot lights.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) AUTOMATIC MEANS FOR ADJUSTING WATER TEMPERATURE-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) IN GENERAL- The manufacturer shall equip each gas, oil, and electric hot water boiler (other than a boiler equipped with tankless domestic water heating coils) with an automatic means for adjusting the temperature of the water supplied by the boiler to ensure that an incremental change in inferred heat load produces a corresponding incremental change in the temperature of water supplied.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) CERTAIN BOILERS- For a boiler that fires at 1 input rate, the requirements of this subparagraph may be satisfied by providing an automatic means that allows the burner or heating element to fire only when the means has determined that the inferred heat load cannot be met by the residual heat of the water in the system.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iii) NO INFERRED HEAT LOAD- When there is no inferred heat load with respect to a hot water boiler, the automatic means described in clauses (i) and (ii) shall limit the temperature of the water in the boiler to not more than 140 degrees Fahrenheit.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iv) OPERATION- A boiler described in clause (i) or (ii) shall be operable only when the automatic means described in clauses (i), (ii), and (iii) is installed.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 228. TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS.
(a) Definition of Fluorescent Lamp- Section 321(30)(B)(viii) of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (
(b) Standards for Commercial Package Air Conditioning and Heating Equipment- Section 342(a)(1) of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (
(c) Mercury Vapor Lamp Ballasts-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) DEFINITIONS- Section 321 of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (
(A) in paragraph (46)(A)--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) in clause (i), by striking `bulb' and inserting `the arc tube'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) in clause (ii), by striking `has a bulb' and inserting `wall loading is';CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) in paragraph (47)(A), by striking `operating at a partial' and inserting `typically operating at a partial vapor';CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) in paragraph (48), by inserting `intended for general illumination' after `lamps'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) by adding at the end the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(56) The term `specialty application mercury vapor lamp ballast' means a mercury vapor lamp ballast that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) is designed and marketed for medical use, optical comparators, quality inspection, industrial processing, or scientific use, including fluorescent microscopy, ultraviolet curing, and the manufacture of microchips, liquid crystal displays, and printed circuit boards; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) in the case of a specialty application mercury vapor lamp ballast, is labeled as a specialty application mercury vapor lamp ballast.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) STANDARD SETTING AUTHORITY- Section 325(ee) of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (
SEC. 229. ELECTRIC MOTOR EFFICIENCY STANDARDS.
(a) Definitions- Section 340(13) of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (
`(A)(i) The term `electric motor' means--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(I) a general purpose electric motor--subtype I; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(II) a general purpose electric motor--subtype II.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) The term `general purpose electric motor--subtype I' means any motor that is considered a general purpose motor under section 431.12 of title 10, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulations).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iii) The term `general purpose electric motor--subtype II' means a motor that, in addition to the design elements for a general purpose electric motor--subtype I, incorporates the design elements (as established in National Electrical Manufacturers Association MG-1 (2006)) for any of the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(I) A U-Frame Motor.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(II) A Design C Motor.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(III) A close-coupled pump motor.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(IV) A footless motor.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(V) A vertical solid shaft normal thrust (tested in a horizontal configuration).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(VI) An 8-pole motor.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(VII) A poly-phase motor with voltage of not more than 600 volts (other than 230 or 460 volts).'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Standards- Section 342(b) of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (
`(1) STANDARDS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) GENERAL PURPOSE ELECTRIC MOTORS--SUBTYPE I-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) IN GENERAL- Except as otherwise provided in this subparagraph, a general purpose electric motor--subtype I with a power rating of not less than 1, and not more than 200, horsepower manufactured (alone or as a component of another piece of equipment) after the 3-year period beginning on the date of enactment of this subparagraph, shall have a nominal full load efficiency established in Table 12-12 of National Electrical Manufacturers Association (referred to in this paragraph as `NEMA') MG-1 (2006).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) FIRE PUMP MOTORS- A fire pump motor shall have a nominal full load efficiency established in Table 12-11 of NEMA MG-1 (2006).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) GENERAL PURPOSE ELECTRIC MOTORS--SUBTYPE II- A general purpose electric motor--subtype II with a power rating of not less than 1, and not more than 200, horsepower manufactured (alone or as a component of another piece of equipment) after the 3-year period beginning on the date of enactment of this subparagraph, shall have a nominal full load efficiency established in Table 12-11 of NEMA MG-1 (2006).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) DESIGN B, GENERAL PURPOSE ELECTRIC MOTORS- A NEMA Design B, general purpose electric motor with a power rating of not less than 201, and not more than 500, horsepower manufactured (alone or as a component of another piece of equipment) after the 3-year period beginning on the date of the enactment of this subparagraph shall have a nominal full load efficiency established in Table 12-11 of NEMA MG-1 (2006).'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Effective Date- The amendments made by this section take effect on the date that is 3 years after the date of enactment of this Act.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 230. ENERGY STANDARDS FOR HOME APPLIANCES.
(a) Definition of Energy Conservation Standard- Section 321(6)(A) of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (
(b) Refrigerators, Refrigerator-Freezers, and Freezers- Section 325(b) of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (
`(4) REFRIGERATORS, REFRIGERATOR-FREEZERS, AND FREEZERS MANUFACTURED ON OR AFTER JANUARY 1, 2014- Not later than December 31, 2010, the Secretary shall publish a final rule determining whether to amend the standards in effect for refrigerators, refrigerator-freezers, and freezers manufactured on or after January 1, 2014, and including any amended standards.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Residential Clothes Washers and Dishwashers- Section 325(g)(4) of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (
`(D) CLOTHES WASHERS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) CLOTHES WASHERS MANUFACTURED ON OR AFTER JANUARY 1, 2011- A residential clothes washer manufactured on or after January 1, 2011, shall have--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(I) a modified energy factor of at least 1.26; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(II) a water factor of not more than 9.5.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) CLOTHES WASHERS MANUFACTURED ON OR AFTER JANUARY 1, 2015- Not later than January 1, 2015, the Secretary shall publish a final rule determining whether to amend the standards in effect for residential clothes washers manufactured on or after January 1, 2015, and including any amended standards.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(E) DISHWASHERS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) DISHWASHERS MANUFACTURED ON OR AFTER JANUARY 1, 2010- A dishwasher manufactured on or after January 1, 2010, shall use not more than--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(I) in the case of a standard-size dishwasher, 355 kWh per year or 6.5 gallons of water per cycle; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(II) in the case of a compact-size dishwasher, 260 kWh per year or 4.5 gallons of water per cycle.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) DISHWASHERS MANUFACTURED ON OR AFTER JANUARY 1, 2018- Not later than January 1, 2015, the Secretary shall publish a final rule determining whether to amend the standards for dishwashers manufactured on or after January 1, 2018, and including any amended standards.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(d) Dehumidifiers- Section 325(cc) of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (
(1) in paragraph (1), by inserting `and before October 1, 2012,' after `2007,'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) by striking paragraph (2) and inserting the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) DEHUMIDIFIERS MANUFACTURED ON OR AFTER OCTOBER 1, 2012- Dehumidifiers manufactured on or after October 1, 2012, shall have an Energy Factor that meets or exceeds the following values:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
` CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
--------------------------CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
--------------------------CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Up to 35.00 1.35 CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
35.01-45.00 1.50 CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
45.01-54.00 1.60 CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
54.01-75.00 1.70 CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Greater than 75.00 2.5.'. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
--------------------------CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(e) Energy Star Program- Section 324A(d)(2) of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (
SEC. 231. IMPROVED ENERGY EFFICIENCY FOR APPLIANCES AND BUILDINGS IN COLD CLIMATES.
(a) Research- Section 911(a)(2) of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
(1) in subparagraph (C), by striking `and' at the end;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) in subparagraph (D), by striking the period at the end and inserting `; and'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) by adding at the end the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(E) technologies to improve the energy efficiency of appliances and mechanical systems for buildings in cold climates, including combined heat and power units and increased use of renewable resources, including fuel.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Rebates- Section 124 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
(1) in subsection (b)(1), by inserting `, or products with improved energy efficiency in cold climates,' after `residential Energy Star products'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) in subsection (e), by inserting `or product with improved energy efficiency in a cold climate' after `residential Energy Star product' each place it appears.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 232. DEPLOYMENT OF NEW TECHNOLOGIES FOR HIGH-EFFICIENCY CONSUMER PRODUCTS.
(a) Definitions- In this section:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) ENERGY SAVINGS- The term `energy savings' means megawatt-hours of electricity or million British thermal units of natural gas saved by a product, in comparison to projected energy consumption under the energy efficiency standard applicable to the product.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) HIGH-EFFICIENCY CONSUMER PRODUCT- The term `high-efficiency consumer product' means a product that exceeds the energy efficiency of comparable products available in the market by a percentage determined by the Secretary to be an appropriate benchmark for the consumer product category competing for an award under this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Financial Incentives Program- Effective beginning October 1, 2007, the Secretary shall competitively award financial incentives under this section for the manufacture of high-efficiency consumer products.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Requirements-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- The Secretary shall make awards under this section to manufacturers of high-efficiency consumer products, based on the bid of each manufacturer in terms of dollars per megawatt-hour or million British thermal units saved.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) ACCEPTANCE OF BIDS- In making awards under this section, the Secretary shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) solicit bids for reverse auction from appropriate manufacturers, as determined by the Secretary; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) award financial incentives to the manufacturers that submit the lowest bids that meet the requirements established by the Secretary.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(d) Forms of Awards- An award for a high-efficiency consumer product under this section shall be in the form of a lump sum payment in an amount equal to the product obtained by multiplying--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) the amount of the bid by the manufacturer of the high-efficiency consumer product; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) the energy savings during the projected useful life of the high-efficiency consumer product, not to exceed 10 years, as determined under regulations issued by the Secretary.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 233. INDUSTRIAL EFFICIENCY PROGRAM.
(a) Definitions- In this section:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) ELIGIBLE ENTITY- The term eligible entity means--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) an institution of higher education under contract or in partnership with a nonprofit or for-profit private entity acting on behalf of an industrial or commercial sector or subsector;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) a nonprofit or for-profit private entity acting on behalf on an industrial or commercial sector or subsector; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) a consortia of entities acting on behalf of an industrial or commercial sector or subsector.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) ENERGY-INTENSIVE COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS- The term `energy-intensive commercial applications' means processes and facilities that use significant quantities of energy as part of the primary economic activities of the processes and facilities, including--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) information technology data centers;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) product manufacturing; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) food processing.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) FEEDSTOCK- The term `feedstock' means the raw material supplied for use in manufacturing, chemical, and biological processes.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) MATERIALS MANUFACTURERS- The term `materials manufacturers' means the energy-intensive primary manufacturing industries, including the aluminum, chemicals, forest and paper products, glass, metal casting, and steel industries.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) PARTNERSHIP- The term `partnership' means an energy efficiency and utilization partnership established under subsection (c)(1)(A).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(6) PROGRAM- The term `program' means the industrial efficiency program established under subsection (b).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Establishment of Program- The Secretary shall establish a program under which the Secretary, in cooperation with materials manufacturers, companies engaged in energy-intensive commercial applications, and national industry trade associations representing the manufactures and companies, shall support, develop, and promote the use of new materials manufacturing and industrial and commercial processes, technologies, and techniques to optimize energy efficiency and the economic competitiveness of the United States.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Partnerships-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- As part of the program, the Secretary shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) establish energy efficiency and utilization partnerships between the Secretary and eligible entities to conduct research on, develop, and demonstrate new processes, technologies, and operating practices and techniques to significantly improve energy efficiency and utilization by materials manufacturers and in energy-intensive commercial applications, including the conduct of activities to--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) increase the energy efficiency of industrial and commercial processes and facilities in energy-intensive commercial application sectors;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) research, develop, and demonstrate advanced technologies capable of energy intensity reductions and increased environmental performance in energy-intensive commercial application sectors; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) promote the use of the processes, technologies, and techniques described in clauses (i) and (ii); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) pay the Federal share of the cost of any eligible partnership activities for which a proposal has been submitted and approved in accordance with paragraph (3)(B).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) ELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES- Partnership activities eligible for financial assistance under this subsection include--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) feedstock and recycling research, development, and demonstration activities to identify and promote--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) opportunities for meeting manufacturing feedstock requirements with more energy efficient and flexible sources of feedstock or energy supply;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) strategies to develop and deploy technologies that improve the quality and quantity of feedstocks recovered from process and waste streams; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) other methods using recycling, reuse, and improved industrial materials;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) industrial and commercial energy efficiency and sustainability assessments to--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) assist individual industrial and commercial sectors in developing tools, techniques, and methodologies to assess--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(I) the unique processes and facilities of the sectors;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(II) the energy utilization requirements of the sectors; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(III) the application of new, more energy efficient technologies; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) conduct energy savings assessments;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) the incorporation of technologies and innovations that would significantly improve the energy efficiency and utilization of energy-intensive commercial applications; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) any other activities that the Secretary determines to be appropriate.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) PROPOSALS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- To be eligible for financial assistance under this subsection, a partnership shall submit to the Secretary a proposal that describes the proposed research, development, or demonstration activity to be conducted by the partnership.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) REVIEW- After reviewing the scientific, technical, and commercial merit of a proposals submitted under subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall approve or disapprove the proposal.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) COMPETITIVE AWARDS- The provision of financial assistance under this subsection shall be on a competitive basis.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) COST-SHARING REQUIREMENT- In carrying out this section, the Secretary shall require cost sharing in accordance with section 988 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
(d) Authorization of Appropriations-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- There are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) $184,000,000 for fiscal year 2008;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) $190,000,000 for fiscal year 2009;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) $196,000,000 for fiscal year 2010;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) $202,000,000 for fiscal year 2011;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(E) $208,000,000 for fiscal year 2012; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(F) such sums as are necessary for fiscal year 2013 and each fiscal year thereafter.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) PARTNERSHIP ACTIVITIES- Of the amounts made available under paragraph (1), not less than 50 percent shall be used to pay the Federal share of partnership activities under subsection (c).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Subtitle C--Promoting High Efficiency Vehicles, Advanced Batteries, and Energy Storage
SEC. 241. LIGHTWEIGHT MATERIALS RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT.
(a) In General- As soon as practicable after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall establish a research and development program to determine ways in which--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) the weight of vehicles may be reduced to improve fuel efficiency without compromising passenger safety; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) the cost of lightweight materials (such as steel alloys, fiberglass, and carbon composites) required for the construction of lighter-weight vehicles may be reduced.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Authorization of Appropriations- There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $60,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2007 through 2012.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 242. LOAN GUARANTEES FOR FUEL-EFFICIENT AUTOMOBILE PARTS MANUFACTURERS.
(a) In General- Section 712(a) of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
(b) Conforming Amendment- Section 1703(b) of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
`(8) Production facilities for the manufacture of fuel efficient vehicles or parts of those vehicles, including electric drive vehicles and advanced diesel vehicles.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 243. ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY VEHICLES MANUFACTURING INCENTIVE PROGRAM.
(a) Definitions- In this section:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) ADJUSTED AVERAGE FUEL ECONOMY- The term `adjusted average fuel economy' means the average fuel economy of a manufacturer for all light duty vehicles produced by the manufacturer, adjusted such that the fuel economy of each vehicle that qualifies for an award shall be considered to be equal to the average fuel economy for vehicles of a similar footprint for model year 2005.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY VEHICLE- The term `advanced technology vehicle' means a light duty vehicle that meets--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) the Bin 5 Tier II emission standard established in regulations issued by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency under section 202(i) of the Clean Air Act (
(B) any new emission standard for fine particulate matter prescribed by the Administrator under that Act (
(C) at least 125 percent of the average base year combined fuel economy, calculated on an energy-equivalent basis, for vehicles of a substantially similar footprint.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) COMBINED FUEL ECONOMY- The term `combined fuel economy' means--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) the combined city/highway miles per gallon values, as reported in accordance with
(B) in the case of an electric drive vehicle with the ability to recharge from an off-board source, the reported mileage, as determined in a manner consistent with the Society of Automotive Engineers recommended practice for that configuration or a similar practice recommended by the Secretary, using a petroleum equivalence factor for the off-board electricity (as defined in section 474 of title 10, Code of Federal Regulations).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) ENGINEERING INTEGRATION COSTS- The term `engineering integration costs' includes the cost of engineering tasks relating to--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) incorporating qualifying components into the design of advanced technology vehicles; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) designing new tooling and equipment and developing new manufacturing processes and material suppliers for production facilities that produce qualifying components or advanced technology vehicles.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) QUALIFYING COMPONENTS- The term `qualifying components' means components that the Secretary determines to be--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) specially designed for advanced technology vehicles; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) installed for the purpose of meeting the performance requirements of advanced technology vehicles.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Advanced Vehicles Manufacturing Facility- The Secretary shall provide facility funding awards under this section to automobile manufacturers and component suppliers to pay not more than 30 percent of the cost of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) reequipping, expanding, or establishing a manufacturing facility in the United States to produce--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) qualifying advanced technology vehicles; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) qualifying components; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) engineering integration performed in the United States of qualifying vehicles and qualifying components.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Period of Availability- An award under subsection (b) shall apply to--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) facilities and equipment placed in service before December 30, 2017; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) engineering integration costs incurred during the period beginning on the date of enactment of this Act and ending on December 30, 2017.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(d) Improvement- The Secretary shall issue regulations that require that, in order for an automobile manufacturer to be eligible for an award under this section during a particular year, the adjusted average fuel economy of the manufacturer for light duty vehicles produced by the manufacturer during the most recent year for which data are available shall be not less than the average fuel economy for all light duty vehicles of the manufacturer for model year 2005.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(e) Set Aside for Small Automobile Manufacturers and Component Suppliers-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) DEFINITION OF COVERED FIRM- In this subsection, the term `covered firm' means a firm that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) employs less than 500 individuals; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) manufactures automobiles or components of automobiles.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) SET ASIDE- Of the amount of funds that are used to provide awards for each fiscal year under this section, the Secretary shall use not less than 30 percent of the amount to provide awards to covered firms or consortia led by a covered firm.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 244. ENERGY STORAGE COMPETITIVENESS.
(a) Short Title- This section may be cited as the `United States Energy Storage Competitiveness Act of 2007'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Energy Storage Systems for Motor Transportation and Electricity Transmission and Distribution-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) DEFINITIONS- In this subsection:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) COUNCIL- The term `Council' means the Energy Storage Advisory Council established under paragraph (3).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) COMPRESSED AIR ENERGY STORAGE- The term `compressed air energy storage' means, in the case of an electricity grid application, the storage of energy through the compression of air.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) DEPARTMENT- The term `Department' means the Department of Energy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) FLYWHEEL- The term `flywheel' means, in the case of an electricity grid application, a device used to store rotational kinetic energy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(E) ULTRACAPACITOR- The term `ultracapacitor' means an energy storage device that has a power density comparable to conventional capacitors but capable of exceeding the energy density of conventional capacitors by several orders of magnitude.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) PROGRAM- The Secretary shall carry out a research, development, and demonstration program to support the ability of the United States to remain globally competitive in energy storage systems for motor transportation and electricity transmission and distribution.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) ENERGY STORAGE ADVISORY COUNCIL-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) ESTABLISHMENT- Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall establish an Energy Storage Advisory Council.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) COMPOSITION-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) IN GENERAL- Subject to clause (ii), the Council shall consist of not less than 15 individuals appointed by the Secretary, based on recommendations of the National Academy of Sciences.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) ENERGY STORAGE INDUSTRY- The Council shall consist primarily of representatives of the energy storage industry of the United States.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) CHAIRPERSON- The Secretary shall select a Chairperson for the Council from among the members appointed under clause (i).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) MEETINGS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) IN GENERAL- The Council shall meet not less than once a year.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) FEDERAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE ACT- The Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App. 2) shall apply to a meeting of the Council.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) PLANS- No later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, in conjunction with the Secretary, the Council shall develop 5-year plans for integrating basic and applied research so that the United States retains a globally competitive domestic energy storage industry for motor transportation and electricity transmission and distribution.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(E) REVIEW- The Council shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) assess the performance of the Department in meeting the goals of the plans developed under subparagraph (D); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) make specific recommendations to the Secretary on programs or activities that should be established or terminated to meet those goals.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) BASIC RESEARCH PROGRAM-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) BASIC RESEARCH- The Secretary shall conduct a basic research program on energy storage systems to support motor transportation and electricity transmission and distribution, including--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) materials design;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) materials synthesis and characterization;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) electrode-active materials, including electrolytes and bioelectrolytes;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iv) surface and interface dynamics;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(v) modeling and simulation; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(vi) thermal behavior and life degradation mechanisms; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(vii) thermal behavior and life degradation mechanisms.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) NANOSCIENCE CENTERS- The Secretary, in cooperation with the Council, shall coordinate the activities of the nanoscience centers of the Department to help the nanoscience centers of the Department maintain a globally competitive posture in energy storage systems for motor transportation and electricity transmission and distribution.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) APPLIED RESEARCH PROGRAM- The Secretary shall conduct an applied research program on energy storage systems to support motor transportation and electricity transmission and distribution technologies, including--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) ultracapacitors;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) flywheels;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) batteries and battery systems (including flow batteries);CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) compressed air energy systems;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(E) power conditioning electronics;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(F) manufacturing technologies for energy storage systems; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(G) thermal management systems.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(6) ENERGY STORAGE RESEARCH CENTERS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- The Secretary shall establish, through competitive bids, not more than 4 energy storage research centers to translate basic research into applied technologies to advance the capability of the United States to maintain a globally competitive posture in energy storage systems for motor transportation and electricity transmission and distribution.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) PROGRAM MANAGEMENT- The centers shall be jointly managed by the Under Secretary for Science of the Department.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) PARTICIPATION AGREEMENTS- As a condition of participating in a center, a participant shall enter into a participation agreement with the center that requires that activities conducted by the participant for the center promote the goal of enabling the United States to compete successfully in global energy storage markets.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) PLANS- A center shall conduct activities that promote the achievement of the goals of the plans of the Council under paragraph (3)(D).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(E) COST SHARING- In carrying out this paragraph, the Secretary shall require cost-sharing in accordance with section 988 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
(F) NATIONAL LABORATORIES- A national laboratory (as defined in section 2 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
(7) DISCLOSURE- Section 623 of the Energy Policy Act of 1992 (
(8) INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY- In accordance with
(A) that any industrial participant that is active in a Energy Storage Research Center established under paragraph (6) related to the advancement of energy storage technologies carried out, in whole or in part, with Federal funding, be granted the first option to negotiate with the invention owner, at least in the field of energy storage technologies, nonexclusive licenses and royalties on terms that are reasonable, as determined by the Secretary;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) that, during a 2-year period beginning on the date on which an invention is made, the patent holder shall not negotiate any license or royalty agreement with any entity that is not an industrial participant under paragraph (6);CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) that, during the 2-year period described in subparagraph (B), the patent holder shall negotiate nonexclusive licenses and royalties in good faith with any interested industrial participant under paragraph (6); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) such other terms as the Secretary determines to be necessary to promote the accelerated commercialization of inventions made under paragraph (6) to advance the capability of the United States to successfully compete in global energy storage markets.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(9) REVIEW BY NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES- Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall offer to enter into an arrangement with the National Academy of Sciences to assess the performance of the Department in carrying out this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(10) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS- There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) the basic research program under paragraph (4) $50,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2008 through 2017;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) the applied research program under paragraph (5) $80,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2008 through 2017; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) the energy storage research center program under paragraph (6) $100,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2008 through 2017.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 245. ADVANCED TRANSPORTATION TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM.
(a) Electric Drive Vehicle Demonstration Program-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) DEFINITIONS- In this subsection--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) BATTERY- The term `battery' means an electrochemical energy storage device powered directly by electrical current.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) PLUG-IN ELECTRIC DRIVE VEHICLE- The term `plug-in electric drive vehicle' means a precommercial vehicle that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) draws motive power from a battery with a capacity of at least 4 kilowatt-hours;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) can be recharged from an external source of electricity for motive power; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) is a light-, medium-, or heavy-duty onroad or nonroad vehicle.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) PROGRAM- The Secretary shall establish a competitive program to provide grants for demonstrations of plug-in electric drive vehicles.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) ELIGIBILITY-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- A State government, local government, metropolitan transportation authority, air pollution control district, private entity, and nonprofit entity shall be eligible to receive a grant under this subsection.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) CERTAIN APPLICANTS- A battery manufacturer that proposes to supply to an applicant for a grant under this section a battery with a capacity of greater than 1 kilowatt-hour for use in a plug-in electric drive vehicle shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) ensure that the applicant includes in the application a description of the price of the battery per kilowatt-hour;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) on approval by the Secretary of the application, publish, or permit the Secretary to publish, the price described in clause (i); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) for any order received by the battery manufacturer for at least 1,000 batteries, offer the batteries at that price.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) PRIORITY- In making grants under this subsection, the Secretary shall give priority to proposals that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) are likely to contribute to the commercialization and production of plug-in electric drive vehicles in the United States; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) reduce petroleum usage.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) SCOPE OF DEMONSTRATIONS- The Secretary shall ensure, to the extent practicable, that the program established under this subsection includes a variety of applications, manufacturers, and end-uses.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(6) REPORTING- The Secretary shall require a grant recipient under this subsection to submit to the Secretary, on an annual basis, data relating to vehicle, performance, life cycle costs, and emissions of vehicles demonstrated under the grant, including emissions of greenhouse gases.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(7) COST SHARING- Section 988 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
(8) AUTHORIZATIONS OF APPROPRIATIONS- There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this subsection $60,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2008 through 2012, of which not less than $20,000,000 shall be available each fiscal year only to make grants local and municipal governments.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Near-Term Electric Drive Transportation Deployment Program-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) DEFINITION OF QUALIFIED ELECTRIC TRANSPORTATION PROJECT-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- In this subsection, the term `qualified electric transportation project' means a project that would simultaneously reduce emissions of criteria pollutants, greenhouse gas emissions, and petroleum usage by at least 40 percent as compared to commercially available, petroleum-based technologies.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) INCLUSIONS- In this subsection, the term `qualified electric transportation project' includes a project relating to--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) shipside or shoreside electrification for vessels;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) truck-stop electrification;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) electric truck refrigeration units;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iv) battery powered auxiliary power units for trucks;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(v) electric airport ground support equipment;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(vi) electric material and cargo handling equipment;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(vii) electric or dual-mode electric freight rail;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(viii) any distribution upgrades needed to supply electricity to the project; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ix) any ancillary infrastructure, including panel upgrades, battery chargers, in-situ transformers, and trenching.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) ESTABLISHMENT- Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of Transportation and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, shall establish a program to provide grants and loans to eligible entities for the conduct of qualified electric transportation projects.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) GRANTS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- Of the amounts made available for grants under paragraph (2)--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) 2/3 shall be made available by the Secretary on a competitive basis for qualified electric transportation projects based on the overall cost-effectiveness of a qualified electric transportation project in reducing emissions of criteria pollutants, emissions of greenhouse gases, and petroleum usage; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) 1/3 shall be made available by the Secretary for qualified electric transportation projects in the order that the grant applications are received, if the qualified electric transportation projects meet the minimum standard for the reduction of emissions of criteria pollutants, emissions of greenhouse gases, and petroleum usage described in paragraph (1)(A).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) PRIORITY- In providing grants under this paragraph, the Secretary shall give priority to large-scale projects and large-scale aggregators of projects.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) COST SHARING- Section 988 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
(4) REVOLVING LOAN PROGRAM-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- The Secretary shall establish a revolving loan program to provide loans to eligible entities for the conduct of qualified electric transportation projects under paragraph (2).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) CRITERIA- The Secretary shall establish criteria for the provision of loans under this paragraph.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) FUNDING- Of amounts made available to carry out this subsection, the Secretary shall use any amounts not used to provide grants under paragraph (3) to carry out the revolving loan program under this paragraph.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Market Assessment Program- The Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, in consultation with the Secretary and private industry, shall carry out a program--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) to inventory and analyze existing electric drive transportation technologies and hybrid technologies and markets; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) to identify and implement methods of removing barriers for existing and emerging applications of electric drive transportation technologies and hybrid transportation technologies.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(d) Electricity Usage Program-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- The Secretary, in consultation with the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency and private industry, shall carry out a program--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) to work with utilities to develop low-cost, simple methods of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) using off-peak electricity; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) managing on-peak electricity use;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) to develop systems and processes--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) to enable plug-in electric vehicles to enhance the availability of emergency back-up power for consumers;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) to study and demonstrate the potential value to the electric grid to use the energy stored in the on-board storage systems to improve the efficiency and reliability of the grid generation system; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) to work with utilities and other interested stakeholders to study and demonstrate the implications of the introduction of plug-in electric vehicles and other types of electric transportation on the production of electricity from renewable resources.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) OFF-PEAK ELECTRICITY USAGE GRANTS- In carrying out the program under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall provide grants to assist eligible public and private electric utilities for the conduct of programs or activities to encourage owners of electric drive transportation technologies--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) to use off-peak electricity; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) to have the load managed by the utility.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(e) Authorization of Appropriations- There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out subsections (b), (c), and (d) $125,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2008 through 2013.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(f) Electric Drive Transportation Technologies-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) DEFINITIONS- In this subsection:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) BATTERY- The term `battery' means an electrochemical energy storage device powered directly by electrical current.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) ELECTRIC DRIVE TRANSPORTATION TECHNOLOGY- The term `electric drive transportation technology' means--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) technology used in vehicles that use an electric motor for all or part of the motive power of the vehicles, including battery electric, hybrid electric, plug-in hybrid electric, fuel cell, and plug-in fuel cell vehicles, or rail transportation; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) equipment relating to transportation or mobile sources of air pollution that use an electric motor to replace an internal combustion engine for all or part of the work of the equipment, including--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(I) corded electric equipment linked to transportation or mobile sources of air pollution; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(II) electrification technologies at airports, ports, truck stops, and material-handling facilities.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) ENERGY STORAGE DEVICE-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) IN GENERAL- The term `energy storage device' means the onboard device used in an on-road or nonroad vehicle to store energy, or a battery, ultracapacitor, compressed air energy storage system, or flywheel used to store energy in a stationary application.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) INCLUSIONS- The term `energy storage device' includes--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(I) in the case of an electric or hybrid electric or fuel cell vehicle, a battery, ultracapacitor, or similar device; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(II) in the case of a hybrid hydraulic vehicle, an accumulator or similar device.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) ENGINE DOMINANT HYBRID VEHICLE- The term `engine dominant hybrid vehicle' means an on-road or nonroad vehicle that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) is propelled by an internal combustion engine or heat engine using--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(I) any combustible fuel; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(II) an on-board, rechargeable energy storage device; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) has no means of using an off-board source of energy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(E) NONROAD VEHICLE- The term `nonroad vehicle' means a vehicle--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) powered by--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(I) a nonroad engine, as that term is defined in section 216 of the Clean Air Act (
(II) fully or partially by an electric motor powered by a fuel cell, a battery, or an off-board source of electricity; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) that is not a motor vehicle or a vehicle used solely for competition.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(F) PLUG-IN ELECTRIC DRIVE VEHICLE- In this section, the term `plug-in electric drive vehicle' means a precommercial vehicle that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) draws motive power from a battery with a capacity of at least 4 kilowatt-hours;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) can be recharged from an external source of electricity for motive power; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) is a light-, medium-, or heavy-duty onroad or nonroad vehicle.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) EVALUATION OF PLUG-IN ELECTRIC DRIVE TRANSPORTATION TECHNOLOGY BENEFITS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- The Secretary, in cooperation with the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, the heads of other appropriate Federal agencies, and appropriate interested stakeholders, shall evaluate and, as appropriate, modify existing test protocols for fuel economy and emissions to ensure that any protocols for electric drive transportation technologies, including plug-in electric drive vehicles, accurately measure the fuel economy and emissions performance of the electric drive transportation technologies.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) REQUIREMENTS- Test protocols (including any modifications to test protocols) for electric drive transportation technologies under subparagraph (A) shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) be designed to assess the full potential of benefits in terms of reduction of emissions of criteria pollutants, reduction of energy use, and petroleum reduction; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) consider--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(I) the vehicle and fuel as a system, not just an engine;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(II) nightly off-board charging, as applicable; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(III) different engine-turn on speed control strategies.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) PLUG-IN ELECTRIC DRIVE VEHICLE RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT- The Secretary shall conduct an applied research program for plug-in electric drive vehicle technology and engine dominant hybrid vehicle technology, including--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) high-capacity, high-efficiency energy storage devices that, as compared to existing technologies that are in commercial service, have improved life, energy storage capacity, and power delivery capacity;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) high-efficiency on-board and off-board charging components;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) high-power and energy-efficient drivetrain systems for passenger and commercial vehicles and for nonroad vehicles;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) development and integration of control systems and power trains for plug-in electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid fuel cell vehicles, and engine dominant hybrid vehicles, including--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) development of efficient cooling systems;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) analysis and development of control systems that minimize the emissions profile in cases in which clean diesel engines are part of a plug-in hybrid drive system; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) development of different control systems that optimize for different goals, including--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(I) prolonging energy storage device life;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(II) reduction of petroleum consumption; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(III) reduction of greenhouse gas emissions;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(E) application of nanomaterial technology to energy storage devices and fuel cell systems; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(F) use of smart vehicle and grid interconnection devices and software that enable communications between the grid of the future and electric drive transportation technology vehicles.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) EDUCATION PROGRAM-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- The Secretary shall develop a nationwide electric drive transportation technology education program under which the Secretary shall provide--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) teaching materials to secondary schools and high schools; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) assistance for programs relating to electric drive system and component engineering to institutions of higher education.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) ELECTRIC VEHICLE COMPETITION- The program established under subparagraph (A) shall include a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle competition for institutions of higher education, which shall be known as the `Dr. Andrew Frank Plug-In Electric Vehicle Competition'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) ENGINEERS- In carrying out the program established under subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall provide financial assistance to institutions of higher education to create new, or support existing, degree programs to ensure the availability of trained electrical and mechanical engineers with the skills necessary for the advancement of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) plug-in electric drive vehicles; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) other forms of electric drive transportation technology vehicles.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS- There are authorized to be appropriated for each of fiscal years 2008 through 2013--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) to carry out paragraph (3) $200,000,000; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) to carry out paragraph (4) $5,000,000.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(g) Collaboration and Merit Review-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) COLLABORATION WITH NATIONAL LABORATORIES- To the maximum extent practicable, National Laboratories shall collaborate with the public, private, and academic sectors and with other National Laboratories in the design, conduct, and dissemination of the results of programs and activities authorized under this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) COLLABORATION WITH MOBILE ENERGY STORAGE PROGRAM- To the maximum extent practicable, the Secretary shall seek to coordinate the stationary and mobile energy storage programs of the Department of the Energy with the programs and activities authorized under this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) MERIT REVIEW- Notwithstanding section 989 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
SEC. 246. INCLUSION OF ELECTRIC DRIVE IN ENERGY POLICY ACT OF 1992.
Section 508 of the Energy Policy Act of 1992 (
(1) by redesignating subsections (a) through (d) as subsections (b) through (e), respectively;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) by inserting before subsection (b) the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(a) Definitions- In this section:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) FUEL CELL ELECTRIC VEHICLE- The term `fuel cell electric vehicle' means an on-road or nonroad vehicle that uses a fuel cell (as defined in section 803 of the Spark M. Matsunaga Hydrogen Act of 2005 (
`(2) HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLE- The term `hybrid electric vehicle' means a new qualified hybrid motor vehicle (as defined in section 30B(d)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(3) MEDIUM- OR HEAVY-DUTY ELECTRIC VEHICLE- The term `medium- or heavy-duty electric vehicle' means an electric, hybrid electric, or plug-in hybrid electric vehicle with a gross vehicle weight of more than 8,501 pounds.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(4) NEIGHBORHOOD ELECTRIC VEHICLE- The term `neighborhood electric vehicle' means a 4-wheeled on-road or nonroad vehicle that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) has a top attainable speed in 1 mile of more than 20 mph and not more than 25 mph on a paved level surface; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) is propelled by an electric motor and on-board, rechargeable energy storage system that is rechargeable using an off-board source of electricity.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(5) PLUG-IN HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLE- The term `plug-in hybrid electric vehicle' means a light-duty, medium-duty, or heavy-duty on-road or nonroad vehicle that is propelled by any combination of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) an electric motor and on-board, rechargeable energy storage system capable of operating the vehicle in intermittent or continuous all-electric mode and which is rechargeable using an off-board source of electricity; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) an internal combustion engine or heat engine using any combustible fuel.';CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) in subsection (b) (as redesignated by paragraph (1))--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) by striking `The Secretary' and inserting the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) ALLOCATION- The Secretary'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) by adding at the end the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) ELECTRIC VEHICLES- Not later than January 31, 2009, the Secretary shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) allocate credit in an amount to be determined by the Secretary for--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) acquisition of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(I) a hybrid electric vehicle;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(II) a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(III) a fuel cell electric vehicle;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(IV) a neighborhood electric vehicle; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(V) a medium- or heavy-duty electric vehicle; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) investment in qualified alternative fuel infrastructure or nonroad equipment, as determined by the Secretary; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) allocate more than 1, but not to exceed 5, credits for investment in an emerging technology relating to any vehicle described in subparagraph (A) to encourage--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) a reduction in petroleum demand;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) technological advancement; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iii) a reduction in vehicle emissions.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) in subsection (c) (as redesignated by paragraph (1)), by striking `subsection (a)' and inserting `subsection (b)'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) by adding at the end the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(e) Authorization of Appropriations- There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as are necessary to carry out this section for each of fiscal years 2008 through 2013.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 247. COMMERCIAL INSULATION DEMONSTRATION PROGRAM.
(a) Definitions- In this section:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) ADVANCED INSULATION- The term `advanced insulation' means insulation that has an R value of not less than R35 per inch.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) COVERED REFRIGERATION UNIT- The term `covered refrigeration unit' means any--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) commercial refrigerated truck;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) commercial refrigerated trailer; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) commercial refrigerator, freezer, or refrigerator-freezer described in section 342(c) of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (
(b) Report- Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report that includes an evaluation of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) the state of technological advancement of advanced insulation; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) the projected amount of cost savings that would be generated by implementing advanced insulation into covered refrigeration units.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Demonstration Program-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) ESTABLISHMENT- If the Secretary determines in the report described in subsection (b) that the implementation of advanced insulation into covered refrigeration units would generate an economically justifiable amount of cost savings, the Secretary, in cooperation with manufacturers of covered refrigeration units, shall establish a demonstration program under which the Secretary shall demonstrate the cost-effectiveness of advanced insulation.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) DISCLOSURE- Section 623 of the Energy Policy Act of 1992 (
(3) COST-SHARING- Section 988 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
(d) Authorization of Appropriations- Of the funds authorized under section 911(b) of
Subtitle D--Setting Energy Efficiency Goals
SEC. 251. OIL SAVINGS PLAN AND REQUIREMENTS.
(a) Oil Savings Target and Action Plan- Not later than 270 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (referred to in this section as the `Director') shall publish in the Federal Register an action plan consisting of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) a list of requirements proposed or to be proposed pursuant to subsection (b) that are authorized to be issued under law in effect on the date of enactment of this Act, and this Act, that will be sufficient, when taken together, to save from the baseline determined under subsection (e)--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) 2,500,000 barrels of oil per day on average during calendar year 2016;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) 7,000,000 barrels of oil per day on average during calendar year 2026; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) 10,000,000 barrels per day on average during calendar year 2031; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) a Federal Government-wide analysis demonstrating--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) the expected oil savings from the baseline to be accomplished by each requirement; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) that all such requirements, taken together, will achieve the oil savings specified in this subsection.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Standards and Requirements-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- On or before the date of publication of the action plan under subsection (a), the Secretary of Energy, the Secretary of Transportation, the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of Agriculture, the Secretary of the Treasury, the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, and the head of any other agency the President determines appropriate shall each propose, or issue a notice of intent to propose, regulations establishing each standard or other requirement listed in the action plan that is under the jurisdiction of the respective agency using authorities described in paragraph (2).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) AUTHORITIES- The head of each agency described in paragraph (1) shall use to carry out this subsection--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) any authority in existence on the date of enactment of this Act (including regulations); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) any new authority provided under this Act (including an amendment made by this Act).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) FINAL REGULATIONS- Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the head of each agency described in paragraph (1) shall promulgate final versions of the regulations required under this subsection.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) CONTENT OF REGULATIONS- Each proposed and final regulation promulgated under this subsection shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) be sufficient to achieve at least the oil savings resulting from the regulation under the action plan published under subsection (a); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) be accompanied by an analysis by the applicable agency demonstrating that the regulation will achieve the oil savings from the baseline determined under subsection (e).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Initial Evaluation-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Director shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) publish in the Federal Register a Federal Government-wide analysis of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) the oil savings achieved from the baseline established under subsection (e); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) the expected oil savings under the standards and requirements of this Act (and amendments made by this Act); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) determine whether oil savings will meet the targets established under subsection (a).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) INSUFFICIENT OIL SAVINGS- If the oil savings are less than the targets established under subsection (a), simultaneously with the analysis required under paragraph (1)--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) the Director shall publish a revised action plan that is sufficient to achieve the targets; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) the head of each agency referred to in subsection (b)(1) shall propose new or revised regulations that are sufficient to achieve the targets under paragraphs (1), (2), and (3), respectively, of subsection (b).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) FINAL REGULATIONS- Not later than 180 days after the date on which regulations are proposed under paragraph (2)(B), the head of each agency referred to in subsection (b)(1) shall promulgate final versions of those regulations that comply with subsection (b)(1).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(d) Review and Update of Action Plan-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) REVIEW- Not later than January 1, 2011, and every 3 years thereafter, the Director shall submit to Congress, and publish, a report that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) evaluates the progress achieved in implementing the oil savings targets established under subsection (a);CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) analyzes the expected oil savings under the standards and requirements established under this Act and the amendments made by this Act; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C)(i) analyzes the potential to achieve oil savings that are in addition to the savings required by subsection (a); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) if the President determines that it is in the national interest, establishes a higher oil savings target for calendar year 2017 or any subsequent calendar year.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) INSUFFICIENT OIL SAVINGS- If the oil savings are less than the targets established under subsection (a), simultaneously with the report required under paragraph (1)--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) the Director shall publish a revised action plan that is sufficient to achieve the targets; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) the head of each agency referred to in subsection (b)(1) shall propose new or revised regulations that are sufficient to achieve the targets under paragraphs (1), (2), and (3), respectively, of subsection (b).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) FINAL REGULATIONS- Not later than 180 days after the date on which regulations are proposed under paragraph (2)(B), the head of each agency referred to in subsection (b)(1) shall promulgate final versions of those regulations that comply with subsection (b)(1).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(e) Baseline and Analysis Requirements- In performing the analyses and promulgating proposed or final regulations to establish standards and other requirements necessary to achieve the oil savings required by this section, the Secretary of Energy, the Secretary of Transportation, the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of Agriculture, the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, and the head of any other agency the President determines to be appropriate shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) determine oil savings as the projected reduction in oil consumption from the baseline established by the reference case contained in the report of the Energy Information Administration entitled `Annual Energy Outlook 2005';CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) determine the oil savings projections required on an annual basis for each of calendar years 2009 through 2026; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) account for any overlap among the standards and other requirements to ensure that the projected oil savings from all the promulgated standards and requirements, taken together, are as accurate as practicable.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(f) Nonregulatory Measures- The action plan required under subsection (a) and the revised action plans required under subsections (c) and (d) shall include--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) a projection of the barrels of oil displaced by efficiency and sources of energy other than oil, including biofuels, electricity, and hydrogen; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) a projection of the barrels of oil saved through enactment of this Act and the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
SEC. 252. NATIONAL ENERGY EFFICIENCY IMPROVEMENT GOALS.
(a) Goals- The goals of the United States are--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) to achieve an improvement in the overall energy productivity of the United States (measured in gross domestic product per unit of energy input) of at least 2.5 percent per year by the year 2012; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) to maintain that annual rate of improvement each year through 2030.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Strategic Plan-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary, in cooperation with the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency and the heads of other appropriate Federal agencies, shall develop a strategic plan to achieve the national goals for improvement in energy productivity established under subsection (a).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) PUBLIC INPUT AND COMMENT- The Secretary shall develop the plan in a manner that provides appropriate opportunities for public input and comment.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Plan Contents- The strategic plan shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) establish future regulatory, funding, and policy priorities to ensure compliance with the national goals;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) include energy savings estimates for each sector; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) include data collection methodologies and compilations used to establish baseline and energy savings data.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(d) Plan Updates-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- The Secretary shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) update the strategic plan biennially; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) include the updated strategic plan in the national energy policy plan required by section 801 of the Department of Energy Organization Act (
(2) CONTENTS- In updating the plan, the Secretary shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) report on progress made toward implementing efficiency policies to achieve the national goals established under subsection (a); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) verify, to the maximum extent practicable, energy savings resulting from the policies.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(e) Report to Congress and Public- The Secretary shall submit to Congress, and make available to the public, the initial strategic plan developed under subsection (b) and each updated plan.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 253. NATIONAL MEDIA CAMPAIGN.
(a) In General- The Secretary, acting through the Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (referred to in this section as the `Secretary'), shall develop and conduct a national media campaign--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) to increase energy efficiency throughout the economy of the United States over the next decade;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) to promote the national security benefits associated with increased energy efficiency; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) to decrease oil consumption in the United States over the next decade.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Contract With Entity- The Secretary shall carry out subsection (a) directly or through--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) competitively bid contracts with 1 or more nationally recognized media firms for the development and distribution of monthly television, radio, and newspaper public service announcements; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) collective agreements with 1 or more nationally recognized institutes, businesses, or nonprofit organizations for the funding, development, and distribution of monthly television, radio, and newspaper public service announcements.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Use of Funds-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- Amounts made available to carry out this section shall be used for the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) ADVERTISING COSTS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) The purchase of media time and space.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) Creative and talent costs.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) Testing and evaluation of advertising.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iv) Evaluation of the effectiveness of the media campaign.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS- Operational and management expenses.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) LIMITATIONS- In carrying out this section, the Secretary shall allocate not less than 85 percent of funds made available under subsection (e) for each fiscal year for the advertising functions specified under paragraph (1)(A).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(d) Reports- The Secretary shall annually submit to Congress a report that describes--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) the strategy of the national media campaign and whether specific objectives of the campaign were accomplished, including--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) determinations concerning the rate of change of energy consumption, in both absolute and per capita terms; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) an evaluation that enables consideration whether the media campaign contributed to reduction of energy consumption;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) steps taken to ensure that the national media campaign operates in an effective and efficient manner consistent with the overall strategy and focus of the campaign;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) plans to purchase advertising time and space;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) policies and practices implemented to ensure that Federal funds are used responsibly to purchase advertising time and space and eliminate the potential for waste, fraud, and abuse; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) all contracts or cooperative agreements entered into with a corporation, partnership, or individual working on behalf of the national media campaign.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(e) Authorization of Appropriations-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $5,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2008 through 2012.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) DECREASED OIL CONSUMPTION- The Secretary shall use not less than 50 percent of the amount that is made available under this section for each fiscal year to develop and conduct a national media campaign to decrease oil consumption in the United States over the next decade.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 254. MODERNIZATION OF ELECTRICITY GRID SYSTEM.
(a) Statement of Policy- It is the policy of the United States that developing and deploying advanced technology to modernize and increase the efficiency of the electricity grid system of the United States is essential to maintain a reliable and secure electricity transmission and distribution infrastructure that can meet future demand growth.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Programs- The Secretary, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, and other Federal agencies, as appropriate, shall carry out programs to support the use, development, and demonstration of advanced transmission and distribution technologies, including real-time monitoring and analytical software--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) to maximize the capacity and efficiency of electricity networks;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) to enhance grid reliability;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) to reduce line losses;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) to facilitate the transition to real-time electricity pricing;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) to allow grid incorporation of more onsite renewable energy generators;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(6) to enable electricity to displace a portion of the petroleum used to power the national transportation system of the United States; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(7) to enable broad deployment of distributed generation and demand side management technology.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 255. SMART GRID SYSTEM REPORT.
(a) In General- The Secretary, acting through the Director of the Office of Electricity Delivery and Energy Reliability (referred to in this section as the `Secretary'), shall, after consulting with any interested individual or entity as appropriate, no later than one year after enactment, report to Congress concerning the status of smart grid deployments nationwide and any regulatory or government barriers to continued deployment.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 256. SMART GRID TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT, AND DEMONSTRATION.
(a) Power Grid Digital Information Technology- The Secretary, in consultation with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and other appropriate agencies, electric utilities, the States, and other stakeholders, shall carry out a program--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) to develop advanced techniques for measuring peak load reductions and energy-efficiency savings from smart metering, demand response, distributed generation, and electricity storage systems;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) to investigate means for demand response, distributed generation, and storage to provide ancillary services;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) to conduct research to advance the use of wide-area measurement and control networks, including data mining, visualization, advanced computing, and secure and dependable communications in a highly-distributed environment;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) to test new reliability technologies in a grid control room environment against a representative set of local outage and wide area blackout scenarios;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) to investigate the feasibility of a transition to time-of-use and real-time electricity pricing;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(6) to develop algorithms for use in electric transmission system software applications;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(7) to promote the use of underutilized electricity generation capacity in any substitution of electricity for liquid fuels in the transportation system of the United States; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(8) in consultation with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, to propose interconnection protocols to enable electric utilities to access electricity stored in vehicles to help meet peak demand loads.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Smart Grid Regional Demonstration Initiative-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- The Secretary shall establish a smart grid regional demonstration initiative (referred to in this subsection as the `Initiative') composed of demonstration projects specifically focused on advanced technologies for use in power grid sensing, communications, analysis, and power flow control. The Secretary shall seek to leverage existing smart grid deployments.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) GOALS- The goals of the Initiative shall be--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) to demonstrate the potential benefits of concentrated investments in advanced grid technologies on a regional grid;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) to facilitate the commercial transition from the current power transmission and distribution system technologies to advanced technologies;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) to facilitate the integration of advanced technologies in existing electric networks to improve system performance, power flow control, and reliability;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) to demonstrate protocols and standards that allow for the measurement and validation of the energy savings and fossil fuel emission reductions associated with the installation and use of energy efficiency and demand response technologies and practices; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(E) to investigate differences in each region and regulatory environment regarding best practices in implementing smart grid technologies.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- In carrying out the initiative, the Secretary shall carry out smart grid demonstration projects in up to 5 electricity control areas, including rural areas and at least 1 area in which the majority of generation and transmission assets are controlled by a tax-exempt entity.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) COOPERATION- A demonstration project under subparagraph (A) shall be carried out in cooperation with the electric utility that owns the grid facilities in the electricity control area in which the demonstration project is carried out.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) FEDERAL SHARE OF COST OF TECHNOLOGY INVESTMENTS- The Secretary shall provide to an electric utility described in subparagraph (B) financial assistance for use in paying an amount equal to not more than 50 percent of the cost of qualifying advanced grid technology investments made by the electric utility to carry out a demonstration project.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS- There are authorized to be appropriated--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) to carry out subsection (a), such sums as are necessary for each of fiscal years 2008 through 2012; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) to carry out subsection (b), $100,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2008 through 2012.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 257. SMART GRID INTEROPERABILITY FRAMEWORK.
(a) Interoperability Framework- The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (referred to in this section as the `Commission'), in cooperation with other relevant federal agencies, shall coordinate with smart grid stakeholders to develop protocols for the establishment of a flexible framework for the connection of smart grid devices and systems that would align policy, business, and technology approaches in a manner that would enable all electric resources, including demand-side resources, to contribute to an efficient, reliable electricity network.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Scope of Framework- The framework developed under subsection (b) shall be designed--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) to accommodate traditional, centralized generation and transmission resources and consumer distributed resources, including distributed generation, renewable generation, energy storage, energy efficiency, and demand response and enabling devices and systems;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) to be flexible to incorporate--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) regional and organizational differences; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) technological innovations; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) to consider include voluntary uniform standards for certain classes of mass-produced electric appliances and equipment for homes and businesses that enable customers, at their election and consistent with applicable State and federal laws, and are manufactured with the ability to respond to electric grid emergencies and demand response signals by curtailing all, or a portion of, the electrical power consumed by the appliances or equipment in response to an emergency or demand response signal, including through--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) load reduction to reduce total electrical demand;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) adjustment of load to provide grid ancillary services; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) in the event of a reliability crisis that threatens an outage, short-term load shedding to help preserve the stability of the grid.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) Such voluntary standards should incorporate appropriate manufacturer lead time.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 258. STATE CONSIDERATION OF SMART GRID.
Section 111(d) of the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 (
`(16) CONSIDERATION OF SMART GRID INVESTMENTS- Each State shall consider requiring that, prior to undertaking investments in nonadvanced grid technologies, an electric utility of the State demonstrate to the State that the electric utility considered an investment in a qualified smart grid system based on appropriate factors, including--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) total costs;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) cost-effectiveness;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iii) improved reliability;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iv) security;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(v) system performance; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(vi) societal benefit.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) RATE RECOVERY- Each State shall consider authorizing each electric utility of the State to recover from ratepayers any capital, operating expenditure, or other costs of the electric utility relating to the deployment of a qualified smart grid system, including a reasonable rate of return on the capital expenditures of the electric utility for the deployment of the qualified smart grid system.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) OBSOLETE EQUIPMENT- Each State shall consider authorizing any electric utility or other party of the State to deploy a qualified smart grid system to recover in a timely manner the remaining book-value costs of any equipment rendered obsolete by the deployment of the qualified smart grid system, based on the remaining depreciable life of the obsolete equipment.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 259. SUPPORT FOR ENERGY INDEPENDENCE OF THE UNITED STATES.
It is the policy of the United States to provide support for projects and activities to facilitate the energy independence of the United States so as to ensure that all but 10 percent of the energy needs of the United States are supplied by domestic energy sources.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 260. ENERGY POLICY COMMISSION.
(a) Establishment-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- There is established a commission, to be known as the `National Commission on Energy Independence' (referred to in this section as the `Commission').CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) MEMBERSHIP- The Commission shall be composed of 15 members, of whom--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) 3 shall be appointed by the President;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) 3 shall be appointed by the majority leader of the Senate;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) 3 shall be appointed by the minority leader of the Senate;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) 3 shall be appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(E) 3 shall be appointed by the minority leader of the House of Representatives.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) CO-CHAIRPERSONS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- The President shall designate 2 co-chairpersons from among the members of the Commission appointed.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) POLITICAL AFFILIATION- The co-chairpersons designated under subparagraph (A) shall not both be affiliated with the same political party.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) DEADLINE FOR APPOINTMENT- Members of the Commission shall be appointed not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) TERM; VACANCIES-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) TERM- A member of the Commission shall be appointed for the life of the Commission.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) VACANCIES- Any vacancy in the Commission--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) shall not affect the powers of the Commission; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) shall be filled in the same manner as the original appointment.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Purpose- The Commission shall conduct a comprehensive review of the energy policy of the United States by--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) reviewing relevant analyses of the current and long-term energy policy of, and conditions in, the United States;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) identifying problems that may threaten the achievement by the United States of long-term energy policy goals, including energy independence;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) analyzing potential solutions to problems that threaten the long-term ability of the United States to achieve those energy policy goals; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) providing recommendations that will ensure, to the maximum extent practicable, that the energy policy goals of the United States are achieved.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Report and Recommendations-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- Not later than December 31 of each of calendar years 2009, 2011, 2013, and 2015, the Commission shall submit to Congress and the President a report on the progress of United States in meeting the long-term energy policy goal of energy independence, including a detailed statement of the consensus findings, conclusions, and recommendations of the Commission.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) LEGISLATIVE LANGUAGE- If a recommendation submitted under paragraph (1) involves legislative action, the report shall include proposed legislative language to carry out the action.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(d) Commission Personnel Matters-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) STAFF AND DIRECTOR- The Commission shall have a staff headed by an Executive Director.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) STAFF APPOINTMENT- The Executive Director may appoint such personnel as the Executive Director and the Commission determine to be appropriate.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) EXPERTS AND CONSULTANTS- With the approval of the Commission, the Executive Director may procure temporary and intermittent services under
(4) FEDERAL AGENCIES-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) DETAIL OF GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) IN GENERAL- Upon the request of the Commission, the head of any Federal agency may detail, without reimbursement, any of the personnel of the Federal agency to the Commission to assist in carrying out the duties of the Commission.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) NATURE OF DETAIL- Any detail of a Federal employee under clause (i) shall not interrupt or otherwise affect the civil service status or privileges of the Federal employee.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE- Upon the request of the Commission, the head of a Federal agency shall provide such technical assistance to the Commission as the Commission determines to be necessary to carry out the duties of the Commission.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(e) Resources-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- The Commission shall have reasonable access to materials, resources, statistical data, and such other information from Executive agencies as the Commission determines to be necessary to carry out the duties of the Commission.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) FORM OF REQUESTS- The co-chairpersons of the Commission shall make requests for access described in paragraph (1) in writing, as necessary.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Subtitle E--Promoting Federal Leadership in Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
SEC. 261. FEDERAL FLEET CONSERVATION REQUIREMENTS.
(a) Federal Fleet Conservation Requirements-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- Part J of title III of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (
`SEC. 400FF. FEDERAL FLEET CONSERVATION REQUIREMENTS.
`(a) Mandatory Reduction in Petroleum Consumption-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) IN GENERAL- The Secretary shall issue regulations (including provisions for waivers from the requirements of this section) for Federal fleets subject to section 400AA requiring that not later than October 1, 2015, each Federal agency achieve at least a 20 percent reduction in petroleum consumption, and that each Federal agency increase alternative fuel consumption by 10 percent annually, as calculated from the baseline established by the Secretary for fiscal year 2005.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) PLAN-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) REQUIREMENT- The regulations shall require each Federal agency to develop a plan to meet the required petroleum reduction levels and the alternative fuel consumption increases.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) MEASURES- The plan may allow an agency to meet the required petroleum reduction level through--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) the use of alternative fuels;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) the acquisition of vehicles with higher fuel economy, including hybrid vehicles, neighborhood electric vehicles, electric vehicles, and plug-in hybrid vehicles if the vehicles are commercially available;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iii) the substitution of cars for light trucks;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iv) an increase in vehicle load factors;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(v) a decrease in vehicle miles traveled;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(vi) a decrease in fleet size; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(vii) other measures.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(b) Federal Employee Incentive Programs for Reducing Petroleum Consumption-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) IN GENERAL- Each Federal agency shall actively promote incentive programs that encourage Federal employees and contractors to reduce petroleum usage through the use of practices such as--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) telecommuting;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) public transit;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) carpooling; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(D) bicycling and the use of 2-wheeled electric drive devices.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) MONITORING AND SUPPORT FOR INCENTIVE PROGRAMS- The Administrator of General Services, the Director of the Office of Personnel Management, and the Secretary of Energy shall monitor and provide appropriate support to agency programs described in paragraph (1).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(3) RECOGNITION- The Secretary may establish a program under which the Secretary recognizes private sector employers and State and local governments for outstanding programs to reduce petroleum usage through practices described in paragraph (1).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(c) Replacement Tires-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) IN GENERAL- Except as provided in paragraph (2), the regulations issued under subsection (a)(1) shall include a requirement that, to the maximum extent practicable, each Federal agency purchase energy-efficient replacement tires for the respective fleet vehicles of the agency.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) EXCEPTIONS- This section does not apply to--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) law enforcement motor vehicles;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) emergency motor vehicles; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) motor vehicles acquired and used for military purposes that the Secretary of Defense has certified to the Secretary must be exempt for national security reasons.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(d) Annual Reports on Compliance- The Secretary shall submit to Congress an annual report that summarizes actions taken by Federal agencies to comply with this section.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) TABLE OF CONTENTS AMENDMENT- The table of contents of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (42 U.S.C. prec. 6201) is amended by adding at the end of the items relating to part J of title III the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`Sec. 400FF. Federal fleet conservation requirements.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Authorization of Appropriations- There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out the amendment made by this section $10,000,000 for the period of fiscal years 2008 through 2013.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 262. FEDERAL REQUIREMENT TO PURCHASE ELECTRICITY GENERATED BY RENEWABLE ENERGY.
Section 203 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
(1) by striking subsection (a) and inserting the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(a) Requirement-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) IN GENERAL- The President, acting through the Secretary, shall require that, to the extent economically feasible and technically practicable, of the total quantity of domestic electric energy the Federal Government consumes during any fiscal year, the following percentages shall be renewable energy from facilities placed in service after January 1, 1999:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) Not less than 10 percent in fiscal year 2010.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) Not less than 15 percent in fiscal year 2015.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) CAPITOL COMPLEX- The Architect of the Capitol, in consultation with the Secretary, shall ensure that, of the total quantity of electric energy the Capitol complex consumes during any fiscal year, the percentages prescribed in paragraph (1) shall be renewable energy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(3) WAIVER AUTHORITY- The President may reduce or waive the requirement under paragraph (1) on a fiscal-year basis if the President determines that complying with paragraph (1) for a fiscal year would result in--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) a negative impact on military training or readiness activities conducted by the Department of Defense;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) a negative impact on domestic preparedness activities conducted by the Department of Homeland Security; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) a requirement that a Federal agency provide emergency response services in the event of a natural disaster or terrorist attack.'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) by adding at the end the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(e) Contracts for Renewable Energy From Public Utility Services- Notwithstanding
SEC. 263. ENERGY SAVINGS PERFORMANCE CONTRACTS.
(a) Retention of Savings- Section 546(c) of the National Energy Conservation Policy Act (
(b) Sunset and Reporting Requirements- Section 801 of the National Energy Conservation Policy Act (
(c) Definition of Energy Savings- Section 804(2) of the National Energy Conservation Policy Act (
(1) by redesignating subparagraphs (A), (B), and (C) as clauses (i), (ii), and (iii), respectively, and indenting appropriately;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) by striking `means a reduction' and inserting `means--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) a reduction';CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) by striking the period at the end and inserting a semicolon; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) by adding at the end the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) the increased efficient use of an existing energy source by cogeneration or heat recovery, and installation of renewable energy systems;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) if otherwise authorized by Federal or State law (including regulations), the sale or transfer of electrical or thermal energy generated on-site from renewable energy sources or cogeneration, but in excess of Federal needs, to utilities or non-Federal energy users; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(D) the increased efficient use of existing water sources in interior or exterior applications.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(d) Notification-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) AUTHORITY TO ENTER INTO CONTRACTS- Section 801(a)(2)(D) of the National Energy Conservation Policy Act (
(A) in clause (ii), by inserting `and' after the semicolon at the end;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) by striking clause (iii); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) by redesignating clause (iv) as clause (iii).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) REPORTS- Section 548(a)(2) of the National Energy Conservation Policy Act (
(3) CONFORMING AMENDMENT-
(e) Energy and Cost Savings in Nonbuilding Applications-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) DEFINITIONS- In this subsection:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) NONBUILDING APPLICATION- The term `nonbuilding application' means--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) any class of vehicles, devices, or equipment that is transportable under the power of the applicable vehicle, device, or equipment by land, sea, or air and that consumes energy from any fuel source for the purpose of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(I) that transportation; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(II) maintaining a controlled environment within the vehicle, device, or equipment; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) any federally-owned equipment used to generate electricity or transport water.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) SECONDARY SAVINGS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) IN GENERAL- The term `secondary savings' means additional energy or cost savings that are a direct consequence of the energy savings that result from the energy efficiency improvements that were financed and implemented pursuant to an energy savings performance contract.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) INCLUSIONS- The term `secondary savings' includes--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(I) energy and cost savings that result from a reduction in the need for fuel delivery and logistical support;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(II) personnel cost savings and environmental benefits; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(III) in the case of electric generation equipment, the benefits of increased efficiency in the production of electricity, including revenues received by the Federal Government from the sale of electricity so produced.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) STUDY-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- As soon as practicable after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary and the Secretary of Defense shall jointly conduct, and submit to Congress and the President a report of, a study of the potential for the use of energy savings performance contracts to reduce energy consumption and provide energy and cost savings in nonbuilding applications.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) REQUIREMENTS- The study under this subsection shall include--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) an estimate of the potential energy and cost savings to the Federal Government, including secondary savings and benefits, from increased efficiency in nonbuilding applications;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) an assessment of the feasibility of extending the use of energy savings performance contracts to nonbuilding applications, including an identification of any regulatory or statutory barriers to such use; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) such recommendations as the Secretary and Secretary of Defense determine to be appropriate.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 264. ENERGY MANAGEMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR FEDERAL BUILDINGS.
Section 543(a)(1) of the National Energy Conservation Policy Act (
--2CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
--4CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
--9CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
--12CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
--15CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
--18CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
--21CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
--24CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
--27CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
--30.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 265. COMBINED HEAT AND POWER AND DISTRICT ENERGY INSTALLATIONS AT FEDERAL SITES.
Section 543 of the National Energy Conservation Policy Act (
`(f) Combined Heat and Power and District Energy Installations at Federal Sites-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) IN GENERAL- Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this subsection, the Secretary, in consultation with the Administrator of General Services and the Secretary of Defense, shall identify Federal sites that could achieve significant cost-effective energy savings through the use of combined heat and power or district energy installations.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) INFORMATION AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE- The Secretary shall provide agencies with information and technical assistance that will enable the agencies to take advantage of the energy savings described in paragraph (1).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(3) ENERGY PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS- Any energy savings from the installations described in paragraph (1) may be applied to meet the energy performance requirements for an agency under subsection (a)(1).'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 266. FEDERAL BUILDING ENERGY EFFICIENCY PERFORMANCE STANDARDS.
Section 305(a)(3)(A) of the Energy Conservation and Production Act (
(1) in the matter preceding clause (i), by striking `this paragraph' and by inserting `the Energy Efficiency Promotion Act of 2007'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) in clause (i)--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) in subclause (I), by striking `and' at the end;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) by redesignating subclause (II) as subclause (III); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) by inserting after subclause (I) the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(II) the buildings be designed, to the extent economically feasible and technically practicable, so that the fossil fuel-generated energy consumption of the buildings is reduced, as compared with the fossil fuel-generated energy consumption by a similar Federal building in fiscal year 2003 (as measured by Commercial Buildings Energy Consumption Survey or Residential Energy Consumption Survey data from the Energy Information Agency), by the percentage specified in the following table:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
--50CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
--60CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
--70CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
--80CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
--90CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
--100;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 267. APPLICATION OF INTERNATIONAL ENERGY CONSERVATION CODE TO PUBLIC AND ASSISTED HOUSING.
Section 109 of the Cranston-Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act (
(1) in subsection (a)(1)(C), by striking, `, where such standards are determined to be cost effective by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development';CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) in subsection (a)(2)--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) by striking `the Council of American Building Officials Model Energy Code, 1992' and inserting `2006 International Energy Conservation Code'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) by striking `, and, with respect to rehabilitation and new construction of public and assisted housing funded by HOPE VI revitalization grants under section 24 of the United States Housing Act of 1937 (
(3) in subsection (b)--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) in the heading, by striking `Model Energy Code- ' and inserting `international energy conservation code- ';CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) after `all new construction' in the first sentence insert `and rehabilitation'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) by striking `, and, with respect to rehabilitation and new construction of public and assisted housing funded by HOPE VI revitalization grants under section 24 of the United States Housing Act of 1937 (
(4) in subsection (c)--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) in the heading, by striking `Model Energy Code and'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) by striking `, or, with respect to rehabilitation and new construction of public and assisted housing funded by HOPE VI revitalization grants under section 24 of the United States Housing Act of 1937 (
(5) by adding at the end the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(d) Failure To Amend the Standards- If the Secretaries have not, within 1 year after the requirements of the 2006 IECC or the ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2004 are revised, amended the standards or made a determination under subsection (c) of this section, the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development or the Secretary of Agriculture make a determination that the revised codes do not negatively affect the availability or affordability of new construction of assisted housing and single family and multifamily residential housing (other than manufactured homes) subject to mortgages insured under the National Housing Act (
(6) by striking `CABO Model Energy Code, 1992' each place it appears and inserting `the 2006 IECC'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(7) by striking `1989' each place it appears and inserting `2004'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 268. ENERGY EFFICIENT COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS INITIATIVE.
(a) Definitions- In this section:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) CONSORTIUM- The term `consortium' means a working group that is comprised of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) individuals representing--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) 1 or more businesses engaged in--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(I) commercial building development;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(II) construction; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(III) real estate;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) financial institutions;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) academic or research institutions;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iv) State or utility energy efficiency programs;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(v) nongovernmental energy efficiency organizations; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(vi) the Federal Government;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) 1 or more building designers; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) 1 or more individuals who own or operate 1 or more buildings.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) ENERGY EFFICIENT COMMERCIAL BUILDING- The term `energy efficient commercial building' means a commercial building that is designed, constructed, and operated--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) to require a greatly reduced quantity of energy;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) to meet, on an annual basis, the balance of energy needs of the commercial building from renewable sources of energy; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) to be economically viable.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) INITIATIVE- The term `initiative' means the Energy Efficient Commercial Buildings Initiative.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Initiative-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- The Secretary shall enter into an agreement with the consortium to develop and carry out the initiative--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) to reduce the quantity of energy consumed by commercial buildings located in the United States; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) to achieve the development of energy efficient commercial buildings in the United States.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) GOAL OF INITIATIVE- The goal of the initiative shall be to develop technologies and practices and implement policies that lead to energy efficient commercial buildings for--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) any commercial building newly constructed in the United States by 2030;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) 50 percent of the commercial building stock of the United States by 2040; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) all commercial buildings in the United States by 2050.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) COMPONENTS- In carrying out the initiative, the Secretary, in collaboration with the consortium, may--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) conduct research and development on building design, materials, equipment and controls, operation and other practices, integration, energy use measurement and benchmarking, and policies;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) conduct demonstration projects to evaluate replicable approaches to achieving energy efficient commercial buildings for a variety of building types in a variety of climate zones;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) conduct deployment activities to disseminate information on, and encourage widespread adoption of, technologies, practices, and policies to achieve energy efficient commercial buildings; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) conduct any other activity necessary to achieve any goal of the initiative, as determined by the Secretary, in collaboration with the consortium.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Authorization of Appropriations-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as are necessary to carry out this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) ADDITIONAL FUNDING- In addition to amounts authorized to be appropriated under paragraph (1), the Secretary may allocate funds from other appropriations to the initiative without changing the purpose for which the funds are appropriated.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 269. CLEAN ENERGY CORRIDORS.
Section 216 of the Federal Power Act (
(1) in subsection (a)--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) by striking `(1) Not later than' and inserting the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) IN GENERAL- Not later than';CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) by striking paragraph (2) and inserting the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) REPORT AND DESIGNATIONS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) IN GENERAL- After considering alternatives and recommendations from interested parties (including an opportunity for comment from affected States), the Secretary shall issue a report, based on the study conducted under paragraph (1), in which the Secretary may designate as a national interest electric transmission corridor any geographic area experiencing electric energy transmission capacity constraints or congestion that adversely affects consumers, including constraints or congestion that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) increases costs to consumers;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) limits resource options to serve load growth; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iii) limits access to sources of clean energy, such as wind, solar energy, geothermal energy, and biomass.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) ADDITIONAL DESIGNATIONS- In addition to the corridor designations made under subparagraph (A), the Secretary may designate additional corridors in accordance with that subparagraph upon the application by an interested person, on the condition that the Secretary provides for an opportunity for notice and comment by interested persons and affected States on the application.';CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) in paragraph (3), the striking `(3) The Secretary' and inserting the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(3) CONSULTATION- The Secretary'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) in paragraph (4)--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) by striking `(4) In determining' and inserting the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(4) BASIS FOR DETERMINATION- In determining'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) by striking subparagraphs (A) through (E) and inserting the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) the economic vitality and development of the corridor, or the end markets served by the corridor, may be constrained by lack of adequate or reasonably priced electricity;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B)(i) economic growth in the corridor, or the end markets served by the corridor, may be jeopardized by reliance on limited sources of energy; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) a diversification of supply is warranted;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) the energy independence of the United States would be served by the designation;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(D) the designation would be in the interest of national energy policy; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(E) the designation would enhance national defense and homeland security.'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) by adding at the end the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(l) Rates and Recovery of Costs-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) IN GENERAL- Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this subsection, the Commission shall promulgate regulations providing for the allocation and recovery of costs prudently incurred by public utilities in building and operating facilities authorized under this section for transmission of electric energy generated from clean sources (such as wind, solar energy, geothermal energy, and biomass).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) APPLICABLE PROVISIONS- All rates approved under the regulations promulgated under paragraph (1), including any revisions to the regulations, shall be subject to the requirements under sections 205 and 206 that all rates, charges, terms, and conditions be just and reasonable and not unduly discriminatory or preferential.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 270. FEDERAL STANDBY POWER STANDARD.
(a) Definitions- In this section:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) AGENCY-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- The term `Agency' has the meaning given the term `Executive agency' in
(B) INCLUSIONS- The term `Agency' includes military departments, as the term is defined in
(2) ELIGIBLE PRODUCT- The term `eligible product' means a commercially available, off-the-shelf product that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A)(i) uses external standby power devices; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) contains an internal standby power function; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) is included on the list compiled under subsection (d).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Federal Purchasing Requirement- Subject to subsection (c), if an Agency purchases an eligible product, the Agency shall purchase--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) an eligible product that uses not more than 1 watt in the standby power consuming mode of the eligible product; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) if an eligible product described in paragraph (1) is not available, the eligible product with the lowest available standby power wattage in the standby power consuming mode of the eligible product.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Limitation- The requirements of subsection (b) shall apply to a purchase by an Agency only if--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) the lower-wattage eligible product is--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) lifecycle cost-effective; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) practicable; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) the utility and performance of the eligible product is not compromised by the lower wattage requirement.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(d) Eligible Products- The Secretary of Energy, in consultation with the Secretary of Defense, the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, and the Administrator of General Services, shall compile a publicly accessible list of cost-effective eligible products that shall be subject to the purchasing requirements of subsection (b).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 270A. STANDARD RELATING TO SOLAR HOT WATER HEATERS.
Section 305(a)(3)(A) of the Energy Conservation and Production Act (
(1) in clause (i)(III), by striking `and' at the end;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) in clause (ii), by striking the period at the end and inserting `; and'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) by adding at the end the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iii) if life-cycle cost-effective, as compared to other reasonably available technologies, not less than 30 percent of the hot water demand for each new or substantially modified Federal building be met through the installation and use of solar hot water heaters.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 270B. RENEWABLE ENERGY INNOVATION MANUFACTURING PARTNERSHIP.
(a) Establishment- The Secretary shall carry out a program, to be known as the Renewable Energy Innovation Manufacturing Partnership Program (referred to in this section as the `Program'), to make assistance awards to eligible entities for use in carrying out research, development, and demonstration relating to the manufacturing of renewable energy technologies.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Solicitation- To carry out the Program, the Secretary shall annually conduct a competitive solicitation for assistance awards for an eligible project described in subsection (e).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Program Purposes- The purposes of the Program are--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) to develop, or aid in the development of, advanced manufacturing processes, materials, and infrastructure;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) to increase the domestic production of renewable energy technology and components; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) to better coordinate Federal, State, and private resources to meet regional and national renewable energy goals through advanced manufacturing partnerships.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(d) Eligible Entities- An entity shall be eligible to receive an assistance award under the Program to carry out an eligible project described in subsection (e) if the entity is composed of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) 1 or more public or private nonprofit institutions or national laboratories engaged in research, development, demonstration, or technology transfer, that would participate substantially in the project; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) 1 or more private entities engaged in the manufacturing or development of renewable energy system components (including solar energy, wind energy, biomass, geothermal energy, energy storage, or fuel cells).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(e) Eligible Projects- An eligible entity may use an assistance award provided under this section to carry out a project relating to--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) the conduct of studies of market opportunities for component manufacturing of renewable energy systems;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) the conduct of multiyear applied research, development, demonstration, and deployment projects for advanced manufacturing processes, materials, and infrastructure for renewable energy systems; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) other similar ventures, as approved by the Secretary, that promote advanced manufacturing of renewable technologies.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(f) Criteria and Guidelines- The Secretary shall establish criteria and guidelines for the submission, evaluation, and funding of proposed projects under the Program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(g) Cost Sharing- Section 988 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
(h) Disclosure- Section 623 of the Energy Policy Act of 1992 (
(i) Sense of the Senate- It is the sense of the Senate that the Secretary should ensure that small businesses engaged in renewable manufacturing be considered for loan guarantees authorized under title XVII of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
(j) Authorization of Appropriations- There is authorized to be appropriated out of funds already authorized to carry out this section $25,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2008 through 2013, to remain available until expended.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 270C. EXPRESS LOANS FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY.
Section 7(a)(31) of the Small Business Act (
`(F) EXPRESS LOANS FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) DEFINITIONS- In this subparagraph--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(I) the term `biomass'--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(aa) means any organic material that is available on a renewable or recurring basis, including--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(AA) agricultural crops;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(BB) trees grown for energy production;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(CC) wood waste and wood residues;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(DD) plants (including aquatic plants and grasses);CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(EE) residues;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(FF) fibers;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(GG) animal wastes and other waste materials; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(HH) fats, oils, and greases (including recycled fats, oils, and greases); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(bb) does not include--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(AA) paper that is commonly recycled; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(BB) unsegregated solid waste;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(II) the term `energy efficiency project' means the installation or upgrading of equipment that results in a significant reduction in energy usage; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(III) the term `renewable energy system' means a system of energy derived from--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(aa) a wind, solar, biomass (including biodiesel), or geothermal source; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(bb) hydrogen derived from biomass or water using an energy source described in item (aa).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) LOANS- Loans may be made under the `Express Loan Program' for the purpose of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(I) purchasing a renewable energy system; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(II) an energy efficiency project for an existing business.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 270D. SMALL BUSINESS ENERGY EFFICIENCY.
(a) Definitions- In this section--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) the terms `Administration' and `Administrator' mean the Small Business Administration and the Administrator thereof, respectively;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) the term `association' means the association of small business development centers established under section 21(a)(3)(A) of the Small Business Act (
(3) the term `disability' has the meaning given that term in section 3 of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (
(4) the term `electric utility' has the meaning given that term in section 3 of the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 (
(5) the term `on-bill financing' means a low interest or no interest financing agreement between a small business concern and an electric utility for the purchase or installation of equipment, under which the regularly scheduled payment of that small business concern to that electric utility is not reduced by the amount of the reduction in cost attributable to the new equipment and that amount is credited to the electric utility, until the cost of the purchase or installation is repaid;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(6) the term `small business concern' has the meaning given that term in section 3 of the Small Business Act (
(7) the term `small business development center' means a small business development center described in section 21 of the Small Business Act (
(8) the term `telecommuting' means the use of telecommunications to perform work functions under circumstances which reduce or eliminate the need to commute; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(9) the term `veteran' has the meaning given that term in
(b) Implementation of Small Business Energy Efficiency Program-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall promulgate final rules establishing the Government-wide program authorized under subsection (d) of section 337 of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (
(2) PLAN- Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall publish a detailed plan regarding how the Administrator will--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) assist small business concerns in becoming more energy efficient; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) build on the Energy Star for Small Business Program of the Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) ASSISTANT ADMINISTRATOR FOR SMALL BUSINESS ENERGY POLICY-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- There is in the Administration an Assistant Administrator for Small Business Energy Policy, who shall be appointed by, and report to, the Administrator.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) DUTIES- The Assistant Administrator for Small Business Energy Policy shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) oversee and administer the requirements under this subsection and section 337(d) of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (
(ii) promote energy efficiency efforts for small business concerns and reduce energy costs of small business concerns.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) REPORTS- The Administrator shall submit to the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship of the Senate and the Committee on Small Business of the House of Representatives an annual report on the progress of the Administrator in encouraging small business concerns to become more energy efficient, including data on the rate of use of the Small Business Energy Clearinghouse established under section 337(d)(4) of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (
(c) Small Business Energy Efficiency-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) AUTHORITY- The Administrator shall establish a Small Business Energy Efficiency Pilot Program (in this subsection referred to as the `Efficiency Pilot Program') to provide energy efficiency assistance to small business concerns through small business development centers.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTERS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- In carrying out the Efficiency Pilot Program, the Administrator shall enter into agreements with small business development centers under which such centers shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) provide access to information and resources on energy efficiency practices, including on-bill financing options;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) conduct training and educational activities;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) offer confidential, free, one-on-one, in-depth energy audits to the owners and operators of small business concerns regarding energy efficiency practices;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iv) give referrals to certified professionals and other providers of energy efficiency assistance who meet such standards for educational, technical, and professional competency as the Administrator shall establish; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(v) act as a facilitator between small business concerns, electric utilities, lenders, and the Administration to facilitate on-bill financing arrangements.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) REPORTS- Each small business development center participating in the Efficiency Pilot Program shall submit to the Administrator and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency an annual report that includes--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) a summary of the energy efficiency assistance provided by that center under the Efficiency Pilot Program;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) the number of small business concerns assisted by that center under the Efficiency Pilot Program;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) statistics on the total amount of energy saved as a result of assistance provided by that center under the Efficiency Pilot Program; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iv) any additional information determined necessary by the Administrator, in consultation with the association.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) REPORTS TO CONGRESS- Not later than 60 days after the date on which all reports under subparagraph (B) relating to a year are submitted, the Administrator shall submit to the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship of the Senate and the Committee on Small Business of the House of Representatives a report summarizing the information regarding the Efficiency Pilot Program submitted by small business development centers participating in that program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) ELIGIBILITY- A small business development center shall be eligible to participate in the Efficiency Pilot Program only if that center is certified under section 21(k)(2) of the Small Business Act (
(4) SELECTION OF PARTICIPATING STATE PROGRAMS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) GROUPINGS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) SELECTION OF PROGRAMS- The Administrator shall select the small business development center programs of 2 States from each of the groupings of States described in clauses (ii) through (xi) to participate in the pilot program established under this subsection.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) GROUP 1- Group 1 shall consist of Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Vermont, and Rhode Island.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) GROUP 2- Group 2 shall consist of New York, New Jersey, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iv) GROUP 3- Group 3 shall consist of Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia, Virginia, the District of Columbia, and Delaware.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(v) GROUP 4- Group 4 shall consist of Georgia, Alabama, North Carolina, South Carolina, Mississippi, Florida, Kentucky, and Tennessee.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(vi) GROUP 5- Group 5 shall consist of Illinois, Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Minnesota.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(vii) GROUP 6- Group 6 shall consist of Texas, New Mexico, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(viii) GROUP 7- Group 7 shall consist of Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska, and Kansas.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ix) GROUP 8- Group 8 shall consist of Colorado, Wyoming, North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, and Utah.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(x) GROUP 9- Group 9 shall consist of California, Guam, American Samoa, Hawaii, Nevada, and Arizona.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(xi) GROUP 10- Group 10 shall consist of Washington, Alaska, Idaho, and Oregon.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) MATCHING REQUIREMENT- Subparagraphs (A) and (B) of section 21(a)(4) of the Small Business Act (
(6) GRANT AMOUNTS- Each small business development center selected to participate in the Efficiency Pilot Program under paragraph (4) shall be eligible to receive a grant in an amount equal to--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) not less than $100,000 in each fiscal year; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) not more than $300,000 in each fiscal year.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(7) EVALUATION AND REPORT- The Comptroller General of the United States shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) not later than 30 months after the date of disbursement of the first grant under the Efficiency Pilot Program, initiate an evaluation of that pilot program; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) not later than 6 months after the date of the initiation of the evaluation under subparagraph (A), submit to the Administrator, the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship of the Senate, and the Committee on Small Business of the House of Representatives, a report containing--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) the results of the evaluation; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) any recommendations regarding whether the Efficiency Pilot Program, with or without modification, should be extended to include the participation of all small business development centers.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(8) GUARANTEE- The Administrator may guarantee the timely payment of a loan made to a small business concern through an on-bill financing agreement on such terms and conditions as the Administrator shall establish through a formal rule making, after providing notice and an opportunity for comment.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(9) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- There are authorized to be appropriated from such sums as are already authorized under section 21 of the Small Business Act to carry out this subsection--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) $5,000,000 for the first fiscal year beginning after the date of enactment of this Act; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) $5,000,000 for each of the 3 fiscal years following the fiscal year described in clause (i).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) LIMITATION ON USE OF OTHER FUNDS- The Administrator may carry out the Efficiency Pilot Program only with amounts appropriated in advance specifically to carry out this subsection.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(10) TERMINATION- The authority under this subsection shall terminate 4 years after the date of disbursement of the first grant under the Efficiency Pilot Program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(d) Small Business Telecommuting-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) PILOT PROGRAM-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- In accordance with this subsection, the Administrator shall conduct, in not more than 5 of the regions of the Administration, a pilot program to provide information regarding telecommuting to employers that are small business concerns and to encourage such employers to offer telecommuting options to employees (in this subsection referred to as the `Telecommuting Pilot Program').CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) SPECIAL OUTREACH TO INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES- In carrying out the Telecommuting Pilot Program, the Administrator shall make a concerted effort to provide information to--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) small business concerns owned by or employing individuals with disabilities, particularly veterans who are individuals with disabilities;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) Federal, State, and local agencies having knowledge and expertise in assisting individuals with disabilities, including veterans who are individuals with disabilities; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) any group or organization, the primary purpose of which is to aid individuals with disabilities or veterans who are individuals with disabilities.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) PERMISSIBLE ACTIVITIES- In carrying out the Telecommuting Pilot Program, the Administrator may--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) produce educational materials and conduct presentations designed to raise awareness in the small business community of the benefits and the ease of telecommuting;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) conduct outreach--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(I) to small business concerns that are considering offering telecommuting options; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(II) as provided in subparagraph (B); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) acquire telecommuting technologies and equipment to be used for demonstration purposes.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) SELECTION OF REGIONS- In determining which regions will participate in the Telecommuting Pilot Program, the Administrator shall give priority consideration to regions in which Federal agencies and private-sector employers have demonstrated a strong regional commitment to telecommuting.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) REPORT TO CONGRESS- Not later than 2 years after the date on which funds are first appropriated to carry out this subsection, the Administrator shall transmit to the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship of the Senate and the Committee on Small Business of the House of Representatives a report containing the results of an evaluation of the Telecommuting Pilot Program and any recommendations regarding whether the pilot program, with or without modification, should be extended to include the participation of all regions of the Administration.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) TERMINATION- The Telecommuting Pilot Program shall terminate 4 years after the date on which funds are first appropriated to carry out this subsection.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS- There is authorized to be appropriated to the Administration $5,000,000 to carry out this subsection.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(e) Encouraging Innovation in Energy Efficiency- Section 9 of the Small Business Act (
`(z) Encouraging Innovation in Energy Efficiency-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) FEDERAL AGENCY ENERGY-RELATED PRIORITY- In carrying out its duties under this section to SBIR and STTR solicitations by Federal agencies, the Administrator shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) ensure that such agencies give high priority to small business concerns that participate in or conduct energy efficiency or renewable energy system research and development projects; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) include in the annual report to Congress under subsection (b)(7) a determination of whether the priority described in subparagraph (A) is being carried out.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) CONSULTATION REQUIRED- The Administrator shall consult with the heads of other Federal agencies and departments in determining whether priority has been given to small business concerns that participate in or conduct energy efficiency or renewable energy system research and development projects, as required by this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(3) GUIDELINES- The Administrator shall, as soon as is practicable after the date of enactment of this subsection, issue guidelines and directives to assist Federal agencies in meeting the requirements of this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(4) DEFINITIONS- In this subsection--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) the term `biomass'--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) means any organic material that is available on a renewable or recurring basis, including--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(I) agricultural crops;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(II) trees grown for energy production;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(III) wood waste and wood residues;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(IV) plants (including aquatic plants and grasses);CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(V) residues;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(VI) fibers;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(VII) animal wastes and other waste materials; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(VIII) fats, oils, and greases (including recycled fats, oils, and greases); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) does not include--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(I) paper that is commonly recycled; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(II) unsegregated solid waste;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) the term `energy efficiency project' means the installation or upgrading of equipment that results in a significant reduction in energy usage; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) the term `renewable energy system' means a system of energy derived from--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) a wind, solar, biomass (including biodiesel), or geothermal source; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) hydrogen derived from biomass or water using an energy source described in clause (i).'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Subtitle F--Assisting State and Local Governments in Energy Efficiency
SEC. 271. WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE FOR LOW-INCOME PERSONS.
Section 422 of the Energy Conservation and Production Act (
SEC. 272. STATE ENERGY CONSERVATION PLANS.
Section 365(f) of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (
SEC. 273. UTILITY ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROGRAMS.
(a) Electric Utilities- Section 111(d) of the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 (
`(16) INTEGRATED RESOURCE PLANNING- Each electric utility shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) integrate energy efficiency resources into utility, State, and regional plans; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) adopt policies establishing cost-effective energy efficiency as a priority resource.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(17) RATE DESIGN MODIFICATIONS TO PROMOTE ENERGY EFFICIENCY INVESTMENTS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) IN GENERAL- The rates allowed to be charged by any electric utility shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) align utility incentives with the delivery of cost-effective energy efficiency; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) promote energy efficiency investments.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) POLICY OPTIONS- In complying with subparagraph (A), each State regulatory authority and each nonregulated utility shall consider--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) removing the throughput incentive and other regulatory and management disincentives to energy efficiency;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) providing utility incentives for the successful management of energy efficiency programs;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iii) including the impact on adoption of energy efficiency as 1 of the goals of retail rate design, recognizing that energy efficiency must be balanced with other objectives;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iv) adopting rate designs that encourage energy efficiency for each customer class; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(v) allowing timely recovery of energy efficiency-related costs.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Natural Gas Utilities- Section 303(b) of the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 (
`(5) ENERGY EFFICIENCY- Each natural gas utility shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) integrate energy efficiency resources into the plans and planning processes of the natural gas utility; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) adopt policies that establish energy efficiency as a priority resource in the plans and planning processes of the natural gas utility.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(6) RATE DESIGN MODIFICATIONS TO PROMOTE ENERGY EFFICIENCY INVESTMENTS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) IN GENERAL- The rates allowed to be charged by a natural gas utility shall align utility incentives with the deployment of cost-effective energy efficiency.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) POLICY OPTIONS- In complying with subparagraph (A), each State regulatory authority and each nonregulated utility shall consider--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) separating fixed-cost revenue recovery from the volume of transportation or sales service provided to the customer;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) providing to utilities incentives for the successful management of energy efficiency programs, such as allowing utilities to retain a portion of the cost-reducing benefits accruing from the programs;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iii) promoting the impact on adoption of energy efficiency as 1 of the goals of retail rate design, recognizing that energy efficiency must be balanced with other objectives; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iv) adopting rate designs that encourage energy efficiency for each customer class.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 274. ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND DEMAND RESPONSE PROGRAM ASSISTANCE.
The Secretary shall provide technical assistance regarding the design and implementation of the energy efficiency and demand response programs established under this title, and the amendments made by this title, to State energy offices, public utility regulatory commissions, and nonregulated utilities through the appropriate national laboratories of the Department of Energy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 275. ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL BLOCK GRANT.
Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 (
`SEC. 123. ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL BLOCK GRANT.
`(a) Definitions- In this sectionCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) ELIGIBLE ENTITY- The term `eligible entity' means--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) a State;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) an eligible unit of local government within a State; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) an Indian tribe.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) ELIGIBLE UNIT OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT- The term `eligible unit of local government' means--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) a city with a population--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) of at least 35,000; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) that causes the city to be 1 of the top 10 most populous cities of the State in which the city is located; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) a county with a population--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) of at least 200,000; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) that causes the county to be 1 of the top 10 most populous counties of the State in which the county is located.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(3) SECRETARY- The term `Secretary' means the Secretary of Energy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(4) STATE- The term `State' means--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) a State;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) the District of Columbia;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(D) any other territory or possession of the United States.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(b) Purpose- The purpose of this section is to assist State, Indian tribal, and local governments in implementing strategies--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) to reduce fossil fuel emissions created as a result of activities within the boundaries of the States or units of local government in an environmentally sustainable way that, to the maximum extent practicable, maximizes benefits for local and regional communities;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) to reduce the total energy use of the States, Indian tribes, and units of local government; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(3) to improve energy efficiency in the transportation sector, building sector, and any other appropriate sectors.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(c) Program-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) IN GENERAL- The Secretary shall provide to eligible entities block grants to carry out eligible activities (as specified under paragraph (2)) relating to the implementation of environmentally beneficial energy strategies.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) ELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES- The Secretary, in consultation with the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, the Secretary of Transportation, and the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, shall establish a list of activities that are eligible for assistance under the grant program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(3) ALLOCATION TO STATES, INDIAN TRIBES, AND ELIGIBLE UNITS OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) IN GENERAL- Of the amounts made available to provide grants under this subsection, the Secretary shall allocate--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) 68 percent to eligible units of local government;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) 28 percent to States; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iii) 4 percent to Indian tribes.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) DISTRIBUTION TO ELIGIBLE UNITS OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) IN GENERAL- The Secretary shall establish a formula for the distribution of amounts under subparagraph (A)(i) to eligible units of local government, taking into account any factors that the Secretary determines to be appropriate, including the residential and daytime population of the eligible units of local government.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) CRITERIA- Amounts shall be distributed to eligible units of local government under clause (i) only if the eligible units of local government meet the criteria for distribution established by the Secretary for units of local government.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) DISTRIBUTION TO STATES-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) IN GENERAL- Of the amounts provided to States under subparagraph (A)(ii), the Secretary shall distribute--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(I) at least 1.25 percent to each State; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(II) the remainder among the States, based on a formula, to be determined by the Secretary, that takes into account the population of the States and any other criteria that the Secretary determines to be appropriate.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) CRITERIA- Amounts shall be distributed to States under clause (i) only if the States meet the criteria for distribution established by the Secretary for States.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iii) LIMITATION ON USE OF STATE FUNDS- At least 40 percent of the amounts distributed to States under this subparagraph shall be used by the States for the conduct of eligible activities in nonentitlement areas in the States, in accordance with any criteria established by the Secretary.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(D) DISTRIBUTION TO INDIAN TRIBES-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) IN GENERAL- The Secretary shall establish a formula for the distribution of amounts under subparagraph (A)(iii) to eligible Indian tribes, taking into account any factors that the Secretary determines to be appropriate, including the residential and daytime population of the eligible Indian tribes.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) CRITERIA- Amounts shall be distributed to eligible Indian tribes under clause (i) only if the eligible Indian tribes meet the criteria for distribution established by the Secretary for Indian tribes.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(4) REPORT- Not later than 2 years after the date on which an eligible entity first receives a grant under this section, and every 2 years thereafter, the eligible entity shall submit to the Secretary a report that describes any eligible activities carried out using assistance provided under this subsection.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(5) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS- There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as are necessary to carry out this subsection for each of fiscal years 2008 through 2012.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(d) Environmentally Beneficial Energy Strategies Supplemental Grant Program-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) IN GENERAL- The Secretary shall provide to each eligible entity that meets the applicable criteria under subparagraph (B)(ii), (C)(ii), or (D)(ii) of subsection (c)(3) a supplemental grant to pay the Federal share of the total costs of carrying out an activity relating to the implementation of an environmentally beneficial energy strategy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) REQUIREMENTS- To be eligible for a grant under paragraph (1), an eligible entity shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Secretary that the eligible entity meets the applicable criteria under subparagraph (B)(ii), (C)(ii), or (D)(ii) of subsection (c)(3); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) submit to the Secretary for approval a plan that describes the activities to be funded by the grant.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(3) COST-SHARING REQUIREMENT-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) FEDERAL SHARE- The Federal share of the cost of carrying out any activities under this subsection shall be 75 percent.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) NON-FEDERAL SHARE-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) FORM- Not more than 50 percent of the non-Federal share may be in the form of in-kind contributions.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) LIMITATION- Amounts provided to an eligible entity under subsection (c) shall not be used toward the non-Federal share.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(4) MAINTENANCE OF EFFORT- An eligible entity shall provide assurances to the Secretary that funds provided to the eligible entity under this subsection will be used only to supplement, not to supplant, the amount of Federal, State, tribal, and local funds otherwise expended by the eligible entity for eligible activities under this subsection.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(5) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS- There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as are necessary to carry out this subsection for each of fiscal years 2008 through 2012.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(e) Grants to Other States and Communities-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) IN GENERAL- Of the total amount of funds that are made available each fiscal year to carry out this section, the Secretary shall use 2 percent of the amount to make competitive grants under this section to States, Indian tribes, and units of local government that are not eligible entities or to consortia of such units of local government.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) APPLICATIONS- To be eligible for a grant under this subsection, a State, Indian tribe, unit of local government, or consortia described in paragraph (1) shall apply to the Secretary for a grant to carry out an activity that would otherwise be eligible for a grant under subsection (c) or (d).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(3) PRIORITY- In awarding grants under this subsection, the Secretary shall give priority to--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) States with populations of less than 2,000,000; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) projects that would result in significant energy efficiency improvements, reductions in fossil fuel use, or capital improvements.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 276. ENERGY SUSTAINABILITY AND EFFICIENCY GRANTS FOR INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION.
Part G of title III of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act is amended by inserting after section 399 (
`SEC. 399A. ENERGY SUSTAINABILITY AND EFFICIENCY GRANTS FOR INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION.
`(a) Definitions- In this section:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) ENERGY SUSTAINABILITY- The term `energy sustainability' includes using a renewable energy resource and a highly efficient technology for electricity generation, transportation, heating, or cooling.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) INSTITUTION OF HIGHER EDUCATION- The term `institution of higher education' has the meaning given the term in section 2 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
`(b) Grants for Energy Efficiency Improvement-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) IN GENERAL- The Secretary shall award not more than 100 grants to institutions of higher education to carry out projects to improve energy efficiency on the grounds and facilities of the institution of higher education, including not less than 1 grant to an institution of higher education in each State.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) CONDITION- As a condition of receiving a grant under this subsection, an institution of higher education shall agree to--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) implement a public awareness campaign concerning the project in the community in which the institution of higher education is located; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) submit to the Secretary, and make available to the public, reports on any efficiency improvements, energy cost savings, and environmental benefits achieved as part of a project carried out under paragraph (1).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(c) Grants for Innovation in Energy Sustainability-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) IN GENERAL- The Secretary shall award not more than 250 grants to institutions of higher education to engage in innovative energy sustainability projects, including not less than 2 grants to institutions of higher education in each State.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) INNOVATION PROJECTS- An innovation project carried out with a grant under this subsection shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) involve--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) an innovative technology that is not yet commercially available; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) available technology in an innovative application that maximizes energy efficiency and sustainability;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) have the greatest potential for testing or demonstrating new technologies or processes; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) ensure active student participation in the project, including the planning, implementation, evaluation, and other phases of the project.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(3) CONDITION- As a condition of receiving a grant under this subsection, an institution of higher education shall agree to submit to the Secretary, and make available to the public, reports that describe the results of the projects carried out under paragraph (1).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(d) Awarding of Grants-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) APPLICATION- An institution of higher education that seeks to receive a grant under this section may submit to the Secretary an application for the grant at such time, in such form, and containing such information as the Secretary may prescribe.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) SELECTION- The Secretary shall establish a committee to assist in the selection of grant recipients under this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(e) Allocation to Institutions of Higher Education With Small Endowments- Of the amount of grants provided for a fiscal year under this section, the Secretary shall provide not less 50 percent of the amount to institutions of higher education that have an endowment of not more than $100,000,000, with 50 percent of the allocation set aside for institutions of higher education that have an endowment of not more than $50,000,000.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(f) Grant Amounts- The maximum amount of grants for a project under this section shall not exceed--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) in the case of grants for energy efficiency improvement under subsection (b), $1,000,000; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) in the case of grants for innovation in energy sustainability under subsection (c), $500,000.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(g) Authorization of Appropriations- There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as are necessary to carry out this section for each of fiscal years 2008 through 2012.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 277. ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND RENEWABLE ENERGY WORKER TRAINING PROGRAM.
Section 1101 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
(1) by redesignating subsection (d) as subsection (e); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) by inserting after subsection (c), the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(d) Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Worker Training Program-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) PURPOSE- It is the purpose of this subsection to--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) create a sustainable, comprehensive public program that provides quality training that is linked to jobs that are created through renewable energy and energy efficiency initiatives;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) satisfy industry demand for a skilled workforce, to support economic growth, to boost America's global competitiveness in the expanding energy efficiency and renewable energy industries, and to provide economic self-sufficiency and family-sustaining jobs for America's workers, including low wage workers, through quality training and placement in job opportunities in the growing energy efficiency and renewable energy industries;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) provide grants for the safety, health, and skills training and education of workers who are, or may be engaged in, activities related to the energy efficiency and renewable energy industries; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(D) provide funds for national and State industry-wide research, labor market information and labor exchange programs, and the development of nationally and State administered training programs.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) GRANT PROGRAM-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) IN GENERAL- Not later than 6 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Labor (referred to in this subsection as the `Secretary'), in consultation with the Secretary of Energy, shall establish an energy efficiency and renewable energy worker training program under which the Secretary shall carry out the activities described in paragraph (3) to achieve the purposes of this subsection.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) ELIGIBILITY- For purposes of providing assistance and services under the program established under this subsection--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) target populations of individuals eligible for training and other services shall include, but not be limited to--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(I) veterans, or past and present members of the reserve components of the Armed Forces;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(II) workers affected by national energy and environmental policy;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(III) workers displaced by the impacts of economic globalization;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(IV) individuals, including at-risk youth, seeking employment pathways out of poverty and into economic self-sufficiency;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(V) formerly incarcerated, adjudicated, non-violent offenders; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(VI) individuals in need of updated training related to the energy efficiency and renewable energy industries; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) energy efficiency and renewable energy industries eligible for such assistance and services shall include--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(I) the energy-efficient building, construction, and retrofits industries;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(II) the renewable electric power industry;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(III) the energy efficient and advanced drive train vehicle industry;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(IV) the bio-fuels industry; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(V) the deconstruction and materials use industries.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(3) ACTIVITIES-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) NATIONAL RESEARCH PROGRAM- Under the program established under paragraph (2), the Secretary, acting through the Bureau of Labor Statistics, shall provide assistance to support national research to develop labor market data and to track future workforce trends resulting from energy-related initiatives carried out under this section. Activities carried out under this paragraph shall include--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) linking research and development in renewable energy and energy efficiency technology with the development of standards and curricula for current and future jobs;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) the tracking and documentation of academic and occupational competencies as well as future skill needs with respect to renewable energy and energy efficiency technology;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iii) tracking and documentation of occupational information and workforce training data with respect to renewable energy and energy efficiency technology;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iv) assessing new employment and work practices including career ladder and upgrade training as well as high performance work systems; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(v) collaborating with State agencies, industry, organized labor, and community and nonprofit organizations to disseminate successful innovations for labor market services and worker training with respect to renewable energy and energy efficiency technology.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) NATIONAL ENERGY TRAINING PARTNERSHIP GRANTS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) IN GENERAL- Under the program established under paragraph (2), the Secretary shall award National Energy Training Partnerships Grants on a competitive basis to eligible entities to enable such entities to carry out national training that leads to economic self-sufficiency and to develop an energy efficiency and renewable energy industries workforce. Grants shall be awarded under this subparagraph so as to ensure geographic diversity with at least 2 grants awarded to entities located in each of the 4 Petroleum Administration for Defense Districts with no subdistricts and at least 1 grant awarded to an entity located in each of the subdistricts of the Petroleum Administration for Defense District with subdistricts.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) ELIGIBILITY- To be eligible to receive a grant under clause (i), an entity shall be a non-profit partnership that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(I) includes the equal participation of industry, including public or private employers, and labor organizations, including joint labor-management training programs, and may include community-based organizations, educational institutions, small businesses, cooperatives, State and local veterans agencies, and veterans service organizations; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(II) demonstrates--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(aa) experience in implementing and operating worker skills training and education programs;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(bb) the ability to identify and involve in training programs carried out under this grant, target populations of workers who are, or will be engaged in, activities related to energy efficiency and renewable energy industries; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(cc) the ability to help workers achieve economic self-sufficiency.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iii) ACTIVITIES- Activities to be carried out under a grant under this subparagraph may include--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(I) the provision of occupational skills training, including curriculum development, on-the-job training, and classroom training;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(II) the provision of safety and health training;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(III) the provision of basic skills, literacy, GED, English as a second language, and job readiness training;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(IV) individual referral and tuition assistance for a community college training program;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(V) the provision of customized training in conjunction with an existing registered apprenticeship program or labor-management partnership;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(VI) the provision of career ladder and upgrade training; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(VII) the implementation of transitional jobs strategies.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) STATE LABOR MARKET RESEARCH, INFORMATION, AND LABOR EXCHANGE RESEARCH PROGRAM-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) IN GENERAL- Under the program established under paragraph (2), the Secretary shall award competitive grants to States to enable such States to administer labor market and labor exchange informational programs that include the implementation of the activities described in clause (ii).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) ACTIVITIES- A State shall use amounts awarded under a grant under this subparagraph to provide funding to the State agency that administers the Wagner-Peyser Act and State unemployment compensation programs to carry out the following activities using State agency merit staff:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(I) The identification of job openings in the renewable energy and energy efficiency sector.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(II) The administration of skill and aptitude testing and assessment for workers.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(III) The counseling, case management, and referral of qualified job seekers to openings and training programs, including energy efficiency and renewable energy training programs.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(D) STATE ENERGY TRAINING PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) IN GENERAL- Under the program established under paragraph (2), the Secretary shall award competitive grants to States to enable such States to administer renewable energy and energy efficiency workforce development programs that include the implementation of the activities described in clause (ii).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) ACTIVITIES-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(I) IN GENERAL- A State shall use amounts awarded under a grant under this subparagraph to award competitive grants to eligible State Energy Sector Partnerships to enable such Partnerships to coordinate with existing apprenticeship and labor management training programs and implement training programs that lead to the economic self-sufficiency of trainees.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(II) ELIGIBILITY- To be eligible to receive a grant under this subparagraph, a State Energy Sector Partnership shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(aa) consist of non-profit organizations that include equal participation from industry, including public or private nonprofit employers, and labor organizations, including joint labor-management training programs, and may include representatives from local governments, worker investment agency one-stop career centers, community based organizations, community colleges, other post-secondary institutions, small businesses, cooperatives, State and local veterans agencies, and veterans service organizations;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(bb) demonstrate experience in implementing and operating worker skills training and education programs; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(cc) demonstrate the ability to identify and involve in training programs, target populations of workers who are, or will be engaged in, activities related to energy efficiency and renewable energy industries.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iii) PRIORITY- In awarding grants under this subparagraph, the Secretary shall give priority to States that demonstrate linkages of activities under the grant with--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(I) meeting national energy policies associated with energy efficiency, renewable energy, and the reduction of emissions of greenhouse gases; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(II) meeting State energy policies associated with energy efficiency, renewable energy, and the reduction of emissions of greenhouse gases.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iv) COORDINATION- A grantee under this subparagraph shall coordinate activities carried out under the grant with existing apprenticeship and labor management training programs and implement training programs that lead to the economic self-sufficiency of trainees, including providing--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(I) outreach and recruitment services, in coordination with the appropriate State agency;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(II) occupational skills training, including curriculum development, on-the-job training, and classroom training;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(III) safety and health training;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(IV) basic skills, literacy, GED, English as a second language, and job readiness training;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(V) individual referral and tuition assistance for a community college training program;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(VI) customized training in conjunction with an existing registered apprenticeship program or labor-management partnership;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(VII) career ladder and upgrade training; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(VIII) services under transitional jobs strategies.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(4) WORKER PROTECTIONS AND NONDISCRIMINATION REQUIREMENTS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) APPLICATION OF WIA- The provisions of sections 181 and 188 of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (
`(B) CONSULTATION WITH LABOR ORGANIZATIONS- If a labor organization represents a substantial number of workers who are engaged in similar work or training in an area that is the same as the area that is proposed to be funded under this subsection, the labor organization shall be provided an opportunity to be consulted and to submit comments in regard to such a proposal.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(5) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS- There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this subsection, $100,000,000 for each fiscal year, of which--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) not to exceed 20 percent of the amount appropriated in each fiscal year shall be made available for, and shall be equally divided between, national labor market research and information under paragraph (3)(A) and State labor market information and labor exchange research under paragraph (3)(C); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) the remainder shall be divided equally between National Energy Partnership Training Grants under paragraph (3)(B) and State energy training partnership grants under paragraph (3)(D).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(6) DEFINITION- In this subsection, the term `renewable electric power' has the meaning given the term `renewable energy' in section 203(b)(2) of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
SEC. 278. ASSISTANCE TO STATES TO REDUCE SCHOOL BUS IDLING.
(a) Statement of Policy- Congress encourages each local educational agency (as defined in section 9101(26) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (
(b) Authorization of Appropriations- There are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary, working in coordination with the Secretary of Education, $5,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2007 through 2012 for use in educating States and local education agencies about--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) benefits of reducing school bus idling; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) ways in which school bus idling may be reduced.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 279. DEFINITION OF STATE.
Section 412 of the Energy Conservation and Production Act (
`(8) STATE- The term `State' means--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) a State;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) the District of Columbia; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 280. COORDINATION OF PLANNED REFINERY OUTAGES.
(a) Definitions- In this section:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) ADMINISTRATOR- The term `Administrator' means the Administrator of the Energy Information Administration.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) PLANNED REFINERY OUTAGE-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- The term `planned refinery outage' means a removal, scheduled before the date on which the removal occurs, of a refinery, or any unit of a refinery, from service for maintenance, repair, or modification.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) EXCLUSION- The term `planned refinery outage' does not include any necessary and unplanned removal of a refinery, or any unit of a refinery, from service as a result of a component failure, safety hazard, emergency, or action reasonably anticipated to be necessary to prevent such events.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) REFINED PETROLEUM PRODUCT- The term `refined petroleum product' means any gasoline, diesel fuel, fuel oil, lubricating oil, liquid petroleum gas, or other petroleum distillate that is produced through the refining or processing of crude oil or an oil derived from tar sands, shale, or coal.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) REFINERY- The term `refinery' means a facility used in the production of a refined petroleum product through distillation, cracking, or any other process.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) SECRETARY- The term `Secretary' means the Secretary of Energy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Review and Analysis of Available Information- The Administrator shall, on an ongoing basis--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) review information on planned refinery outages that is available from commercial reporting services;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) analyze that information to determine whether the scheduling of a planned refinery outage may nationally or regionally affect the price or supply of any refined petroleum product by--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) decreasing the production of the refined petroleum product; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) causing or contributing to a retail or wholesale supply shortage or disruption;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) not less frequently than twice each year, submit to the Secretary a report describing the results of the review and analysis under paragraphs (1) and (2); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) specifically alert the Secretary of any planned refinery outage that the Administrator determines may nationally or regionally affect the price or supply of a refined petroleum product.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Action by Secretary- On a determination by the Secretary, based on a report or alert under paragraph (3) or (4) of subsection (b), that a planned refinery outage may affect the price or supply of a refined petroleum product, the Secretary shall make available to refinery operators information on planned refinery outages to encourage reductions of the quantity of refinery capacity that is out of service at any time.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(d) Limitation- Nothing in this section shall alter any existing legal obligation or responsibility of a refinery operator, or create any legal right of action, nor shall this section authoirze the Secretary--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) to prohibit a refinery operator from conducting a planned refinery outage; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) to require a refinery operator to continue to operate a refinery.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 281. TECHNICAL CRITERIA FOR CLEAN COAL POWER INITIATIVE.
Section 402(b)(1)(B)(ii) of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
`(I)(aa) to remove at least 99 percent of sulfur dioxide; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(bb) to emit not more than 0.04 pound SO2 per million Btu, based on a 30-day average;'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 282. ADMINISTRATION.
Section 106 of the Alaska Natural Gas Pipeline Act (
`(h) Administration-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) PERSONNEL APPOINTMENTS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) IN GENERAL- The Federal Coordinator may appoint and terminate such personnel as the Federal Coordinator determines to be appropriate.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) AUTHORITY OF FEDERAL COORDINATOR- Personnel appointed by the Federal Coordinator under subparagraph (A) shall be appointed without regard to the provisions of title 5, United States Code, governing appointments in the competitive service.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) COMPENSATION-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) IN GENERAL- Subject to subparagraph (B), personnel appointed by the Federal Coordinator under paragraph (1)(A) shall be paid without regard to the provisions of chapter 51 and subchapter III of chapter 53 of title 5, United States Code (relating to classification and General Schedule pay rates).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) MAXIMUM LEVEL OF COMPENSATION- The rate of pay for personnel appointed by the Federal Coordinator under paragraph (1)(A) shall not exceed the maximum level of rate payable for level III of the Executive Schedule.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) APPLICABILITY OF SECTION 5941-
`(3) TEMPORARY SERVICES-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) IN GENERAL- The Federal Coordinator may procure temporary and intermittent services in accordance with
`(B) MAXIMUM LEVEL OF COMPENSATION- The level of compensation of an individual employed on a temporary or intermittent basis under subparagraph (A) shall not exceed the maximum level of rate payable for level III of the Executive Schedule.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(4) FEES, CHARGES, AND COMMISSIONS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) IN GENERAL- The Federal Coordinator shall have the authority to establish, change, and abolish reasonable filing and service fees, charges, and commissions, require deposits of payments, and provide refunds as provided to the Secretary of the Interior in section 304 of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (
`(B) AUTHORITY OF SECRETARY OF THE INTERIOR- Subparagraph (A) shall not affect the authority of the Secretary of the Interior to establish, change, and abolish reasonable filing and service fees, charges, and commissions, require deposits of payments, and provide refunds under section 304 of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (
`(C) USE OF FUNDS- The Federal Coordinator is authorized to use, without further appropriation, amounts collected under subparagraph (A) to carry out this section.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 283. OFFSHORE RENEWABLE ENERGY.
(a) Leases, Easements, or Rights-of-Way for Energy and Related Purposes- Section 8(p) of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (
(1) by inserting after `Secretary of the Department in which the Coast Guard is operating' the following: `, the Secretary of Commerce,';CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) by striking paragraph (3) and inserting the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(3) COMPETITIVE OR NONCOMPETITIVE BASIS- Any lease, easement, or right-of-way under paragraph (1) shall be issued on a competitive basis, unless--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) the lease, easement, or right-of-way relates to a project that meets the criteria established under section 388(d) of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
`(B) the lease, easement, or right-of-way--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) is for the placement and operation of a meteorological or marine data collection facility; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) has a term of not more than 5 years; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) the Secretary determines, after providing public notice of a proposed lease, easement, or right-of-way, that no competitive interest exists.'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) by adding at the end the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(11) CLARIFICATION-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) IN GENERAL- Subject to subparagraph (B), the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission shall not have authority to approve or license a wave or current energy project on the outer Continental Shelf under part I of the Federal Power Act (
`(B) TRANSMISSION OF POWER- Subparagraph (A) shall not affect any authority of the Commission with respect to the transmission of power generated from a project described in subparagraph (A).'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Consideration of Certain Requests for Authorization- In considering a request for authorization of a project pending before the Commission on the outer Continental Shelf as of the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Interior shall rely, to the maximum extent practicable, on the materials submitted to the Commission before that date.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Savings Provision- Nothing in this section or an amendment made by this section requires the resubmission of any document that was previously submitted, or the reauthorization of any action that was previously authorized, with respect to a project on the outer Continental Shelf, for which a preliminary permit was issued by the Commission before the date of enactment of this Act.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Subtitle G--Marine and Hydrokinetic Renewable Energy Promotion
SEC. 291. DEFINITION OF MARINE AND HYDROKINETIC RENEWABLE ENERGY.
(a) In General- In this subtitle, the term `marine and hydrokinetic renewable energy' means electrical energy from--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) waves, tides, and currents in oceans, estuaries, and tidal areas;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) free flowing water in rivers, lakes, and streams;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) free flowing water in man-made channels, including projects that utilize nonmechanical structures to accelerate the flow of water for electric power production purposes; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) differentials in ocean temperature (ocean thermal energy conversion).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Exclusion- Except as provided in subsection (a)(3), the term `marine and hydrokinetic renewable energy' does not include energy from any source that uses a dam, diversionary structure, or impoundment for electric power purposes.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 292. RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT.
(a) Program- The Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of Commerce and the Secretary of the Interior, shall establish a program of marine and hydrokinetic renewable energy research, including--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) developing and demonstrating marine and hydrokinetic renewable energy technologies;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) reducing the manufacturing and operation costs of marine and hydrokinetic renewable energy technologies;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) increasing the reliability and survivability of marine and hydrokinetic renewable energy facilities;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) integrating marine and hydrokinetic renewable energy into electric grids;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) identifying opportunities for cross fertilization and development of economies of scale between offshore wind and marine and hydrokinetic renewable energy sources;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(6) identifying, in conjunction with the Secretary of Commerce and the Secretary of the Interior, the potential environmental impacts of marine and hydrokinetic renewable energy technologies and measures to minimize or prevent adverse impacts, and technologies and other means available for monitoring and determining environmental impacts;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(7) identifying, in conjunction with the Commandant of the United States Coast Guard, the potential navigational impacts of marine and hydrokinetic renewable energy technologies and measures to minimize or prevent adverse impacts;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(8) standards development, demonstration, and technology transfer for advanced systems engineering and system integration methods to identify critical interfaces; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(9) providing public information and opportunity for public comment concerning all technologies.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Report- Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of Commerce and the Secretary of the Interior, shall provide to the appropriate committees of Congress a report that addresses--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) the potential environmental impacts of hydrokinetic renewable energy technologies in free-flowing water in rivers, lakes, and streams;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) the means by which to minimize or prevent any adverse environmental impacts;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) the potential role of monitoring and adaptive management in addressing any adverse environmental impacts; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) the necessary components of such an adaptive management program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Authorization of Appropriations- There are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section $50,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 2008 through 2017.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 293. NATIONAL OCEAN ENERGY RESEARCH CENTERS.
(a) In General- Subject to the availability of appropriations under subsection (e), the Secretary shall establish not less than 1, and not more than 6, national ocean energy research centers at institutions of higher education for the purpose of conducting research, development, demonstration, and testing of ocean energy technologies and associated equipment.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Evaluations- Each Center shall (in consultation with developers, utilities, and manufacturers) conduct evaluations of technologies and equipment described in subsection (a).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Location- In establishing centers under this section, the Secretary shall locate the centers in coastal regions of the United State in a manner that, to the maximum extent practicable, is geographically dispersed.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(d) Coordination- Prior to carrying out any activity under this section in waters subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, the Secretary shall identify, in conjunction with the Secretary of Commerce and the Secretary of Interior, the potential environmental impacts of such activity and measures to minimize or prevent adverse impacts.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(e) Authorization of Appropriations- There are authorized to be appropriate such sums as are necessary to carry out this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
TITLE III--CARBON CAPTURE AND STORAGE RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT, AND DEMONSTRATION
SEC. 301. SHORT TITLE.
This title may be cited as the `Carbon Capture and Sequestration Act of 2007'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 302. CARBON CAPTURE AND STORAGE RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT, AND DEMONSTRATION PROGRAM.
Section 963 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
(1) in the section heading, by striking `research and development' and inserting `and storage research, development, and demonstration';CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) in subsection (a)--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) by striking `research and development' and inserting `and storage research, development, and demonstration'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) by striking `capture technologies on combustion-based systems' and inserting `capture and storage technologies related to energy systems';CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) in subsection (b)--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) in paragraph (3), by striking `and' at the end;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) in paragraph (4), by striking the period at the end and inserting `; and'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) by adding at the end the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(5) to expedite and carry out large-scale testing of carbon sequestration systems in a range of geological formations that will provide information on the cost and feasibility of deployment of sequestration technologies.'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) by striking subsection (c) and inserting the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(c) Programmatic Activities-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) ENERGY RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT UNDERLYING CARBON CAPTURE AND STORAGE TECHNOLOGIES AND CARBON USE ACTIVITIES-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) IN GENERAL- The Secretary shall carry out fundamental science and engineering research (including laboratory-scale experiments, numeric modeling, and simulations) to develop and document the performance of new approaches to capture and store, recycle, or reuse carbon dioxide.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) PROGRAM INTEGRATION- The Secretary shall ensure that fundamental research carried out under this paragraph is appropriately applied to energy technology development activities, the field testing of carbon sequestration, and carbon use activities, including--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) development of new or improved technologies for the capture and storage of carbon dioxide;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) development of new or improved technologies that reduce the cost and increase the efficacy of advanced compression of carbon dioxide required for the storage of carbon dioxide;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iii) modeling and simulation of geological sequestration field demonstrations;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iv) quantitative assessment of risks relating to specific field sites for testing of sequestration technologies;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(v) research and development of new and improved technologies for--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(I) carbon use, including recycling and reuse of carbon dioxide; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(II) the containment of carbon dioxide in the form of solid materials or products derived from a gasification technology that does not involve geologic containment or injection; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(vi) research and development of new and improved technologies for oxygen separation from air.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) FIELD VALIDATION TESTING ACTIVITIES-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) IN GENERAL- The Secretary shall promote, to the maximum extent practicable, regional carbon sequestration partnerships to conduct geologic sequestration tests involving carbon dioxide injection and monitoring, mitigation, and verification operations in a variety of candidate geological settings, including--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) operating oil and gas fields;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) depleted oil and gas fields;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iii) unmineable coal seams;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iv) deep saline formations;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(v) deep geological systems that may be used as engineered reservoirs to extract economical quantities of heat from geothermal resources of low permeability or porosity;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(vi) deep geologic systems containing basalt formations; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(vii) coal-bed methane recovery.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) OBJECTIVES- The objectives of tests conducted under this paragraph shall be--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) to develop and validate geophysical tools, analysis, and modeling to monitor, predict, and verify carbon dioxide containment;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) to validate modeling of geological formations;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iii) to refine storage capacity estimated for particular geological formations;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iv) to determine the fate of carbon dioxide concurrent with and following injection into geological formations;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(v) to develop and implement best practices for operations relating to, and monitoring of, injection and storage of carbon dioxide in geologic formations;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(vi) to assess and ensure the safety of operations related to geological storage of carbon dioxide; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(vii) to allow the Secretary to promulgate policies, procedures, requirements, and guidance to ensure that the objectives of this subparagraph are met in large-scale testing and deployment activities for carbon capture and storage that are funded by the Department of Energy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(3) LARGE-SCALE TESTING AND DEPLOYMENT-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) IN GENERAL- The Secretary shall conduct not less than 7 initial large-volume sequestration tests involving at least 1,000,000 tons of carbon dioxide per year for geological containment of carbon dioxide (at least 1 of which shall be international in scope) to collect and validate information on the cost and feasibility of commercial deployment of technologies for geological containment of carbon dioxide.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) DIVERSITY OF FORMATIONS TO BE STUDIED- In selecting formations for study under this paragraph, the Secretary shall consider a variety of geological formations across the United States, and require characterization and modeling of candidate formations, as determined by the Secretary.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(4) PREFERENCE IN PROJECT SELECTION FROM MERITORIOUS PROPOSALS- In making competitive awards under this subsection, subject to the requirements of section 989, the Secretary shall give preference to proposals from partnerships among industrial, academic, and government entities.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(5) COST SHARING- Activities under this subsection shall be considered research and development activities that are subject to the cost-sharing requirements of section 988(b).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(6) PROGRAM REVIEW AND REPORT- During fiscal year 2011, the Secretary shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) conduct a review of programmatic activities carried out under this subsection; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) make recommendations with respect to continuation of the activities.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(d) Authorization of Appropriations- There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) $150,000,000 for fiscal year 2008;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) $200,000,000 for fiscal year 2009;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(3) $200,000,000 for fiscal year 2010;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(4) $180,000,000 for fiscal year 2011; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(5) $165,000,000 for fiscal year 2012.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 303. CARBON DIOXIDE STORAGE CAPACITY ASSESSMENT.
(a) Definitions- In this sectionCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) ASSESSMENT- The term `assessment' means the national assessment of capacity for carbon dioxide completed under subsection (f).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) CAPACITY- The term `capacity' means the portion of a storage formation that can retain carbon dioxide in accordance with the requirements (including physical, geological, and economic requirements) established under the methodology developed under subsection (b).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) ENGINEERED HAZARD- The term `engineered hazard' includes the location and completion history of any well that could affect potential storage.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) RISK- The term `risk' includes any risk posed by geomechanical, geochemical, hydrogeological, structural, and engineered hazards.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) SECRETARY- The term `Secretary' means the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Director of the United States Geological Survey.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(6) STORAGE FORMATION- The term `storage formation' means a deep saline formation, unmineable coal seam, or oil or gas reservoir that is capable of accommodating a volume of industrial carbon dioxide.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Methodology- Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall develop a methodology for conducting an assessment under subsection (f), taking into consideration--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) the geographical extent of all potential storage formations in all States;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) the capacity of the potential storage formations;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) the injectivity of the potential storage formations;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) an estimate of potential volumes of oil and gas recoverable by injection and storage of industrial carbon dioxide in potential storage formations;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) the risk associated with the potential storage formations; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(6) the work done to develop the Carbon Sequestration Atlas of the United States and Canada that was completed by the Department of Energy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Coordination-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) FEDERAL COORDINATION-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) CONSULTATION- The Secretary shall consult with the Secretary of Energy and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency on issues of data sharing, format, development of the methodology, and content of the assessment required under this title to ensure the maximum usefulness and success of the assessment.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) COOPERATION- The Secretary of Energy and the Administrator shall cooperate with the Secretary to ensure, to the maximum extent practicable, the usefulness and success of the assessment.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) STATE COORDINATION- The Secretary shall consult with State geological surveys and other relevant entities to ensure, to the maximum extent practicable, the usefulness and success of the assessment.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(d) External Review and Publication- On completion of the methodology under subsection (b), the Secretary shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) publish the methodology and solicit comments from the public and the heads of affected Federal and State agencies;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) establish a panel of individuals with expertise in the matters described in paragraphs (1) through (5) of subsection (b) composed, as appropriate, of representatives of Federal agencies, institutions of higher education, nongovernmental organizations, State organizations, industry, and international geoscience organizations to review the methodology and comments received under paragraph (1); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) on completion of the review under paragraph (2), publish in the Federal Register the revised final methodology.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(e) Periodic Updates- The methodology developed under this section shall be updated periodically (including at least once every 5 years) to incorporate new data as the data becomes available.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(f) National Assessment-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- Not later than 2 years after the date of publication of the methodology under subsection (d)(1), the Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of Energy and State geological surveys, shall complete a national assessment of capacity for carbon dioxide in accordance with the methodology.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) GEOLOGICAL VERIFICATION- As part of the assessment under this subsection, the Secretary shall carry out a drilling program to supplement the geological data relevant to determining storage capacity of carbon dioxide in geological storage formations, including--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) well log data;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) core data; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) fluid sample data.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) PARTNERSHIP WITH OTHER DRILLING PROGRAMS- As part of the drilling program under paragraph (2), the Secretary shall enter, as appropriate, into partnerships with other entities to collect and integrate data from other drilling programs relevant to the storage of carbon dioxide in geologic formations.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) INCORPORATION INTO NATCARB-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- On completion of the assessment, the Secretary of Energy and the Secretary of the Interior shall incorporate the results of the assessment using--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) the NatCarb database, to the maximum extent practicable; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) a new database developed by the Secretary of Energy, as the Secretary of Energy determines to be necessary.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) RANKING- The database shall include the data necessary to rank potential storage sites for capacity and risk, across the United States, within each State, by formation, and within each basin.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) REPORT- Not later than 180 days after the date on which the assessment is completed, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate and the Committee on Science and Technology of the House of Representatives a report describing the findings under the assessment.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(6) PERIODIC UPDATES- The national assessment developed under this section shall be updated periodically (including at least once every 5 years) to support public and private sector decisionmaking.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(g) Authorization of Appropriations- There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $30,000,000 for the period of fiscal years 2008 through 2012.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 304. CARBON CAPTURE AND STORAGE INITIATIVE.
(a) Definitions- In this section:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) INDUSTRIAL SOURCES OF CARBON DIOXIDE- The term `industrial sources of carbon dioxide' means one or more facilities to--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) generate electric energy from fossil fuels;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) refine petroleum;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) manufacture iron or steel;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) manufacture cement or cement clinker;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(E) manufacture commodity chemicals (including from coal gasification);CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(F) manufacture transportation fuels from coal; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(G) manufacture biofuels.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) SECRETARY- The term `Secretary' means the Secretary of Energy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Program Establishment-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- The Secretary shall carry out a program to demonstrate technologies for the large-scale capture of carbon dioxide from industrial sources of carbon dioxide.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) SCOPE OF AWARD- An award under this section shall be only for the portion of the project that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) carries out the large-scale capture (including purification and compression) of carbon dioxide;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) provides for the cost of transportation and injection of carbon dioxide; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) incorporates a comprehensive measurement, monitoring, and validation program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) QUALIFICATIONS FOR AWARD- To be eligible for an award under this section, a project proposal must include the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) CAPACITY- The capture of not less than eighty-five percent of the produced carbon dioxide at the facility, and not less than 500,000 short tons of carbon dioxide per year.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) STORAGE AGREEMENT- A binding agreement for the storage of all of the captured carbon dioxide in--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) a field testing validation activity under section 963 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005, as amended by this Act; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) other geological storage projects approved by the Secretary.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) PURITY LEVEL- A purity level of at least 95 percent carbon dioxide by volume for the captured carbon dioxide delivered for storage.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) COMMITMENT TO CONTINUED OPERATION OF SUCCESSFUL UNIT- If the project successfully demonstrates capture and storage of carbon dioxide, a commitment to continued capture and storage of carbon dioxide after the conclusion of the demonstration.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) COST-SHARING- The cost-sharing requirements of section 988 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 shall apply to this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Authorization of Appropriations- There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section $100,000,000 per year for fiscal years 2009 through 2013.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 305. CAPITOL POWER PLANT CARBON DIOXIDE EMISSIONS DEMONSTRATION PROGRAM.
The first section of the Act of March 4, 1911 (
(1) by striking `ninety thousand dollars:' and inserting `$90,000.'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) by striking `Provided, That hereafter the' and all that follows through the end of the proviso and inserting the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(a) Designation- The heating, lighting, and power plant constructed under the terms of the Act approved April 28, 1904 (33 Stat. 479, chapter 1762), shall be known as the `Capitol power plant', and all vacancies occurring in the force operating that plant and the substations in connection with the plant shall be filled by the Architect of the Capitol, with the approval of the commission in control of the House Office Building appointed under the first section of the Act of March 4, 1907 (
`(b) Capitol Power Plant Carbon Dioxide Emissions Demonstration Program-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) DEFINITIONS- In this subsection:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) ADMINISTRATOR- The term `Administrator' means the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) CARBON DIOXIDE ENERGY EFFICIENCY- The term `carbon dioxide energy efficiency', with respect to a project, means the quantity of electricity used to power equipment for carbon dioxide capture and storage or use.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) PROGRAM- The term `program' means the competitive grant demonstration program established under paragraph (2)(B).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) ESTABLISHMENT OF PROGRAM-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) FEASIBILITY STUDY- Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this section, the Architect of the Capitol, in cooperation with the Administrator, shall complete a feasibility study evaluating the available methods to proceed with the project and program established under this section, taking into consideration--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) the availability of carbon capture technologies;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) energy conservation and carbon reduction strategies; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iii) security of operations at the Capitol power plant.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAM- The Architect of the Capitol, in cooperation with the Administrator, shall establish a competitive grant demonstration program under which the Architect of the Capitol shall, subject to the availability of appropriations, provide to eligible entities, as determined by the Architect of the Capitol, in cooperation with the Administrator, grants to carry out projects to demonstrate, during the 2-year period beginning on the date of enactment of this subsection, the capture and storage or use of carbon dioxide emitted from the Capitol power plant as a result of burning coal.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(3) REQUIREMENTS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) PROVISION OF GRANTS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) IN GENERAL- The Architect of the Capitol, in cooperation with the Administrator, shall provide the grants under the program on a competitive basis.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) FACTORS FOR CONSIDERATION- In providing grants under the program, the Architect of the Capitol, in cooperation with the Administrator, shall take into consideration--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(I) the practicability of conversion by the proposed project of carbon dioxide into useful products, such as transportation fuel;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(II) the carbon dioxide energy efficiency of the proposed project; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(III) whether the proposed project is able to reduce more than 1 air pollutant regulated under this Act.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) REQUIREMENTS FOR ENTITIES- An entity that receives a grant under the program shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) use to carry out the project of the entity a technology designed to reduce or eliminate emission of carbon dioxide that is in existence on the date of enactment of this subsection that has been used--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(I) by not less than 3 other facilities (including a coal-fired power plant); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(II) on a scale of not less than 5 times the size of the proposed project of the entity at the Capitol power plant; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) carry out the project of the entity in consultation with, and with the concurrence of, the Architect of the Capitol and the Administrator.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) CONSISTENCY WITH CAPITOL POWER PLANT MODIFICATIONS- The Architect of the Capitol may require changes to a project under the program that are necessary to carry out any modifications to be made to the Capitol power plant.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(4) INCENTIVE- In addition to the grant under this subsection, the Architect of the Capitol may provide to an entity that receives such a grant an incentive award in an amount equal to not more than $50,000, of which--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) $15,000 shall be provided after the project of the entity has sustained operation for a period of 100 days, as determined by the Architect of the Capitol;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) $15,000 shall be provided after the project of the entity has sustained operation for a period of 200 days, as determined by the Architect of the Capitol; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) $20,000 shall be provided after the project of the entity has sustained operation for a period of 300 days, as determined by the Architect of the Capitol.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(5) TERMINATION- The program shall terminate on the date that is 2 years after the date of enactment of this subsection.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(6) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS- There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out the program $3,000,000.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 306. ASSESSMENT OF CARBON SEQUESTRATION AND METHANE AND NITROUS OXIDE EMISSIONS FROM TERRESTRIAL ECOSYSTEMS.
(a) Definitions- In this section:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) ADAPTATION STRATEGY- The term `adaptation strategy' means a land use and management strategy that can be used to increase the sequestration capabilities of any terrestrial ecosystem.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) ASSESSMENT- The term `assessment' means the national assessment authorized under subsection (b).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) COVERED GREENHOUSE GAS- The term `covered greenhouse gas' means carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, and methane gas.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) NATIVE PLANT SPECIES- The term `native plant species' means any noninvasive, naturally occurring plant species within a terrestrial ecosystem.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) SECRETARY- The term `Secretary' means the Secretary of the Interior.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(6) FEDERAL LAND- The term `Federal land' means--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) land of the National Forest System (as defined in section 11(a) of the Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources Planning Act of 1974 (
(B) public lands (as defined in section 103 of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (
(7) TERRESTRIAL ECOSYSTEM-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- The term `terrestrial ecosystem' means any ecological and surficial geological system on Federal land.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) INCLUSIONS- The term `terrestrial ecosystem' includes--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) forest land;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) grassland; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) freshwater aquatic ecosystems.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Authorization of Assessment- Not later than 2 years after the date on which the final methodology is published under subsection (f)(3)(D), the Secretary shall complete a national assessment of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) the quantity of carbon stored in and released from terrestrial ecosystems; including from man-caused and natural fires; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) the annual flux of covered greenhouse gases in and out of terrestrial ecosystems.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Components- In conducting the assessment under subsection (b), the Secretary shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) determine the processes that control the flux of covered greenhouse gases in and out of each terrestrial ecosystem;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) estimate the technical and economic potential for increasing carbon sequestration in natural and managed terrestrial ecosystems through management activities or restoration activities in each terrestrial ecosystem;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) develop near-term and long-term adaptation strategies or mitigation strategies that can be employed--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) to enhance the sequestration of carbon in each terrestrial ecosystem;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) to reduce emissions of covered greenhouse gases; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) to adapt to climate change; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) estimate annual carbon sequestration capacity of terrestrial ecosystems under a range of policies in support of management activities to optimize sequestration.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(d) Use of Native Plant Species- In developing restoration activities under subsection (c)(2) and management strategies and adaptation strategies under subsection (c)(3), the Secretary shall emphasize the use of native plant species (including mixtures of many native plant species) for sequestering covered greenhouse gas in each terrestrial ecosystem.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(e) Consultation- In conducting the assessment under subsection (b) and developing the methodology under subsection (f), the Secretary shall consult with--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) the Secretary of Energy;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) the Secretary of Agriculture;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) the heads of other relevant agencies;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) consortia based at institutions of higher education and with research corporations; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(6) Federal forest and grassland managers.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(f) Methodology-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall develop a methodology for conducting the assessment.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) REQUIREMENTS- The methodology developed under paragraph (1)--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) determine the method for measuring, monitoring, quantifying, and monetizing covered greenhouse gas emissions and reductions, including methods for allocating and managing offsets or credits; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) estimate the total capacity of each terrestrial ecosystem to--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(I) sequester carbon; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(II) reduce emissions of covered greenhouse gases; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) may employ economic and other systems models, analyses, and estimations, to be developed in consultation with each of the individuals described in subsection (e).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) EXTERNAL REVIEW AND PUBLICATION- On completion of a proposed methodology, the Secretary shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) publish the proposed methodology;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) at least 60 days before the date on which the final methodology is published, solicit comments from--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) the public; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) heads of affected Federal and State agencies;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) establish a panel to review the proposed methodology published under subparagraph (A) and any comments received under subparagraph (B), to be composed of members--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) with expertise in the matters described in subsections (c) and (d); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) that are, as appropriate, representatives of Federal agencies, institutions of higher education, nongovernmental organizations, State organizations, industry, and international organizations; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) on completion of the review under subparagraph (C), publish in the Federal register the revised final methodology.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(g) Estimate; Review- The Secretary shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) based on the assessment, prescribe the data, information, and analysis needed to establish a scientifically sound estimate of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) the carbon sequestration capacity of relevant terrestrial ecosystems;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) a national inventory of covered greenhouse gas sources that is consistent with the inventory prepared by the Environmental Protection Agency entitled the `Inventory of U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Sinks: 1990-2005'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) the willingness of covered greenhouse gas emitters to pay to sequester the covered greenhouse gases emitted by the applicable emitters in designated terrestrial ecosystems; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) not later than 180 days after the date on which the assessment is completed, submit to the heads of applicable Federal agencies and the appropriate committees of Congress a report that describes the results of the assessment.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(h) Data and Report Availability- On completion of the assessment, the Secretary shall incorporate the results of the assessment into a web-accessible database for public use.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 307. ABRUPT CLIMATE CHANGE RESEARCH PROGRAM.
(a) Establishment of Program- The Secretary of Commerce shall establish within the Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and shall carry out, a program of scientific research on abrupt climate change.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Purposes of Program- The purposes of the program are as follows:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) To develop a global array of terrestrial and oceanographic indicators of paleoclimate in order to sufficiently identify and describe past instances of abrupt climate change.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) To improve understanding of thresholds and nonlinearities in geophysical systems related to the mechanisms of abrupt climate change.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) To incorporate such mechanisms into advanced geophysical models of climate change.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) To test the output of such models against an improved global array of records of past abrupt climate changes.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Abrupt Climate Change Defined- In this section, the term `abrupt climate change' means a change in the climate that occurs so rapidly or unexpectedly that human or natural systems have difficulty adapting to the climate as changed.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(d) Authorization of Appropriations- Of such sums previously authorized, there is authorized to be appropriated to the Department of Commerce for each of fiscal years 2009 through 2014, to remain available until expended, such sums as are necessary, not to exceed $10,000,000, to carry out the research program required under this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
TITLE IV--COST-EFFECTIVE AND ENVIRONMENTALLY SUSTAINABLE PUBLIC BUILDINGS
Subtitle A--Public Buildings Cost Reduction
SEC. 401. SHORT TITLE.
This subtitle may be cited as the `Public Buildings Cost Reduction Act of 2007'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 402. COST-EFFECTIVE AND GEOTHERMAL HEAT PUMP TECHNOLOGY ACCELERATION PROGRAM.
(a) Definition of Administrator- In this section, the term `Administrator' means the Administrator of General Services.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Establishment-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- The Administrator shall establish a program to accelerate the use of more cost-effective technologies and practices and geothermal heat pumps at GSA facilities.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) REQUIREMENTS- The program established under this subsection shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) ensure centralized responsibility for the coordination of cost reduction-related and geothermal heat pump-related recommendations, practices, and activities of all relevant Federal agencies;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) provide technical assistance and operational guidance to applicable tenants to achieve the goal identified in subsection (c)(2)(B)(ii); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) establish methods to track the success of Federal departments and agencies with respect to that goal.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Accelerated Use of Technologies-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) REVIEW-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- As part of the program under this section, not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall conduct a review of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) current use of cost-effective lighting technologies and geothermal heat pumps in GSA facilities; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) the availability to managers of GSA facilities of cost-effective lighting technologies and geothermal heat pumps.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) REQUIREMENTS- The review under subparagraph (A) shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) examine the use of cost-effective lighting technologies, geothermal heat pumps, and other cost-effective technologies and practices by Federal agencies in GSA facilities; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) as prepared in consultation with the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, identify cost-effective lighting technology and geothermal heat pump technology standards that could be used for all types of GSA facilities.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) REPLACEMENT-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- As part of the program under this section, not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall establish, using available appropriations, a cost-effective lighting technology and geothermal heat pump technology acceleration program to achieve maximum feasible replacement of existing lighting, heating, cooling technologies with cost-effective lighting technologies and geothermal heat pump technologies in each GSA facility.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) ACCELERATION PLAN TIMETABLE-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) IN GENERAL- To implement the program established under subparagraph (A), not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall establish a timetable, including milestones for specific activities needed to replace existing lighting, heating, cooling technologies with cost-effective lighting technologies and geothermal heat pump technologies, to the maximum extent feasible (including at the maximum rate feasible), at each GSA facility.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) GOAL- The goal of the timetable under clause (i) shall be to complete, using available appropriations, maximum feasible replacement of existing lighting, heating, and cooling technologies with cost-effective lighting technologies and geothermal heat pump technologies by not later than the date that is 5 years after the date of enactment of this Act.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(d) GSA Facility Technologies and Practices- Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter, the Administrator shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) ensure that a manager responsible for accelerating the use of cost-effective technologies and practices and geothermal heat pump technologies is designated for each GSA facility; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) submit to Congress a plan, to be implemented to the maximum extent feasible (including at the maximum rate feasible) using available appropriations, by not later than the date that is 5 years after the date of enactment of this Act, that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) with respect to cost-effective technologies and practices--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) identifies the specific activities needed to achieve a 20-percent reduction in operational costs through the application of cost-effective technologies and practices from 2003 levels at GSA facilities by not later than 5 years after the date of enactment of this Act;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) describes activities required and carried out to estimate the funds necessary to achieve the reduction described in clause (i);CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) includes an estimate of the funds necessary to carry out this section;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) describes the status of the implementation of cost-effective technologies and practices and geothermal heat pump technologies and practices at GSA facilities, including--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) the extent to which programs, including the program established under subsection (b), are being carried out in accordance with this subtitle; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) the status of funding requests and appropriations for those programs;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) identifies within the planning, budgeting, and construction processes, all types of GSA facility-related procedures that inhibit new and existing GSA facilities from implementing cost-effective technologies or geothermal heat pump technologies;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(E) recommends language for uniform standards for use by Federal agencies in implementing cost-effective technologies and practices and geothermal heat pump technologies and practices;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(F) in coordination with the Office of Management and Budget, reviews the budget process for capital programs with respect to alternatives for--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) permitting Federal agencies to retain all identified savings accrued as a result of the use of cost-effective technologies and geothermal heat pump technologies; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) identifying short- and long-term cost savings that accrue from the use of cost-effective technologies and practices and geothermal heat pump technologies and practices;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(G)(i) with respect to geothermal heat pump technologies, achieves substantial operational cost savings through the application of the technologies; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) with respect to cost-effective technologies and practices, achieves cost savings through the application of cost-effective technologies and practices sufficient to pay the incremental additional costs of installing the cost-effective technologies and practices by not later than the date that is 5 years after the date of installation; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(H) includes recommendations to address each of the matters, and a plan for implementation of each recommendation, described in subparagraphs (A) through (G).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(e) Authorization of Appropriations- There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as are necessary to carry out this section, to remain available until expended.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 403. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY DEMONSTRATION GRANT PROGRAM FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENTS.
(a) Grant Program-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- The Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (referred to in this section as the `Administrator') shall establish a demonstration program under which the Administrator shall provide competitive grants to assist local governments (such as municipalities and counties), with respect to local government buildings--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) to deploy cost-effective technologies and practices; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) to achieve operational cost savings, through the application of cost-effective technologies and practices, as verified by the Administrator.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) COST SHARING-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- The Federal share of the cost of an activity carried out using a grant provided under this section shall be 40 percent.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) WAIVER OF NON-FEDERAL SHARE- The Administrator may waive up to 100 percent of the local share of the cost of any grant under this section should the Administrator determine that the community is economically distressed, pursuant to objective economic criteria established by the Administrator in published guidelines.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) MAXIMUM AMOUNT- The amount of a grant provided under this subsection shall not exceed $1,000,000.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Guidelines-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall issue guidelines to implement the grant program established under subsection (a).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) REQUIREMENTS- The guidelines under paragraph (1) shall establish--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) standards for monitoring and verification of operational cost savings through the application of cost-effective technologies and practices reported by grantees under this section;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) standards for grantees to implement training programs, and to provide technical assistance and education, relating to the retrofit of buildings using cost-effective technologies and practices; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) a requirement that each local government that receives a grant under this section shall achieve facility-wide cost savings, through renovation of existing local government buildings using cost-effective technologies and practices, of at least 40 percent as compared to the baseline operational costs of the buildings before the renovation (as calculated assuming a 3-year, weather-normalized average).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Compliance With State and Local Law- Nothing in this section or any program carried out using a grant provided under this section supersedes or otherwise affects any State or local law, to the extent that the State or local law contains a requirement that is more stringent than the relevant requirement of this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(d) Authorization of Appropriations- There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $20,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2007 through 2012.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(e) Reports-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- The Administrator shall provide annual reports to Congress on cost savings achieved and actions taken and recommendations made under this section, and any recommendations for further action.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) FINAL REPORT- The Administrator shall issue a final report at the conclusion of the program, including findings, a summary of total cost savings achieved, and recommendations for further action.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(f) Termination- The program under this section shall terminate on September 30, 2012.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 404. DEFINITIONS.
In this subtitle:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) COST-EFFECTIVE LIGHTING TECHNOLOGY-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- The term `cost-effective lighting technology' means a lighting technology that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) will result in substantial operational cost savings by ensuring an installed consumption of not more than 1 watt per square foot; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) is contained in a list under--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(I) section 553 of
(II) Federal acquisition regulation 23-203.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) INCLUSIONS- The term `cost-effective lighting technology' includes--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) lamps;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) ballasts;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) luminaires;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iv) lighting controls;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(v) daylighting; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(vi) early use of other highly cost-effective lighting technologies.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) COST-EFFECTIVE TECHNOLOGIES AND PRACTICES- The term `cost-effective technologies and practices' means a technology or practice that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) will result in substantial operational cost savings by reducing utility costs; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) complies with the provisions of section 553 of
(3) OPERATIONAL COST SAVINGS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- The term `operational cost savings' means a reduction in end-use operational costs through the application of cost-effective technologies and practices or geothermal heat pumps, including a reduction in electricity consumption relative to consumption by the same customer or at the same facility in a given year, as defined in guidelines promulgated by the Administrator pursuant to section 403(b), that achieves cost savings sufficient to pay the incremental additional costs of using cost-effective technologies and practices or geothermal heat pumps by not later than--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) for cost-effective technologies and practices, the date that is 5 years after the date of installation; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) for geothermal heat pumps, as soon as practical after the date of installation of the applicable geothermal heat pump.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) INCLUSIONS- The term `operational cost savings' includes savings achieved at a facility as a result of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) the installation or use of cost-effective technologies and practices; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) the planting of vegetation that shades the facility and reduces the heating, cooling, or lighting needs of the facility.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) EXCLUSION- The term `operational cost savings' does not include savings from measures that would likely be adopted in the absence of cost-effective technology and practices programs, as determined by the Administrator.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) GEOTHERMAL HEAT PUMP- The term `geothermal heat pump' means any heating or air conditioning technology that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) uses the ground or ground water as a thermal energy source to heat, or as a thermal energy sink to cool, a building; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) meets the requirements of the Energy Star program of the Environmental Protection Agency applicable to geothermal heat pumps on the date of purchase of the technology.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) GSA FACILITY-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- The term `GSA facility' means any building, structure, or facility, in whole or in part (including the associated support systems of the building, structure, or facility) that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) is constructed (including facilities constructed for lease), renovated, or purchased, in whole or in part, by the Administrator for use by the Federal Government; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) is leased, in whole or in part, by the Administrator for use by the Federal Government--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(I) except as provided in subclause (II), for a term of not less than 5 years; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(II) for a term of less than 5 years, if the Administrator determines that use of cost-effective technologies and practices would result in the payback of expenses.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) INCLUSION- The term `GSA facility' includes any group of buildings, structures, or facilities described in subparagraph (A) (including the associated energy-consuming support systems of the buildings, structures, and facilities).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) EXEMPTION- The Administrator may exempt from the definition of `GSA facility' under this paragraph a building, structure, or facility that meets the requirements of section 543(c) of
Subtitle B--Installation of Photovoltaic System at Department of Energy Headquarters Building
SEC. 411. INSTALLATION OF PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM AT DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY HEADQUARTERS BUILDING.
(a) In General- The Administrator of General Services shall install a photovoltaic system, as set forth in the Sun Wall Design Project, for the headquarters building of the Department of Energy located at 1000 Independence Avenue, Southwest, Washington, DC, commonly known as the Forrestal Building.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Funding- There shall be available from the Federal Buildings Fund established by
(c) Obligation of Funds- None of the funds made available pursuant to subsection (b) may be obligated prior to September 30, 2007.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
Subtitle C--High-Performance Green Buildings
SEC. 421. SHORT TITLE.
This subtitle may be cited as the `High-Performance Green Buildings Act of 2007'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 422. FINDINGS AND PURPOSES.
(a) Findings- Congress finds that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) high-performance green buildings--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) reduce energy, water, and material resource use and the generation of waste;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) improve indoor environmental quality, and protect indoor air quality by, for example, using materials that emit fewer or no toxic chemicals into the indoor air;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) improve thermal comfort;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) improve lighting and the acoustic environment;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(E) improve the health and productivity of individuals who live and work in the buildings;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(F) improve indoor and outdoor impacts of the buildings on human health and the environment;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(G) increase the use of environmentally preferable products, including biobased, recycled, and nontoxic products with lower lifecycle impacts; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(H) increase opportunities for reuse of materials and for recycling;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) during the planning, design, and construction of a high-performance green building, the environmental and energy impacts of building location and site design, the minimization of energy and materials use, and the environmental impacts of the building are considered;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) according to the United States Green Building Council, certified green buildings, as compared to conventional buildings--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) use an average of 36 percent less total energy (and in some cases up to 50 to 70 percent less total energy);CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) use 30 percent less water; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) reduce waste costs, often by 50 to 90 percent;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) the benefits of high-performance green buildings are important, because in the United States, buildings are responsible for approximately--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) 39 percent of primary energy use;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) 12 percent of potable water use;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) 136,000,000 tons of building-related construction and demolition debris;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) 70 percent of United States resource consumption; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(E) 70 percent of electricity consumption;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) green building certification programs can be highly beneficial by disseminating up-to-date information and expertise regarding high-performance green buildings, and by providing third-party verification of green building design, practices, and materials, and other aspects of buildings; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(6) a July 2006 study completed for the General Services Administration, entitled `Sustainable Building Rating Systems Summary,' concluded that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) green building standards are an important means to encourage better practices;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standard for green building certification is `currently the dominant system in the United States market and is being adapted to multiple markets worldwide'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) there are other useful green building certification or rating programs in various stages of development and adoption, including the Green Globes program and other rating systems.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Purposes- The purposes of this subtitle are--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) to encourage the Federal Government to act as an example for State and local governments, the private sector, and individuals by building high-performance green buildings that reduce energy use and environmental impacts;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) to establish an Office within the General Services Administration, and a Green Building Advisory Committee, to advance the goals of conducting research and development and public outreach, and to move the Federal Government toward construction of high-performance green buildings;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) to encourage States, local governments, and school systems to site, build, renovate, and operate high-performance green schools through the adoption of voluntary guidelines for those schools, the dissemination of grants, and the adoption of environmental health plans and programs;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) to strengthen Federal leadership on high-performance green buildings through the adoption of incentives for high-performance green buildings, and improved green procurement by Federal agencies; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) to demonstrate that high-performance green buildings can and do provide significant benefits, in order to encourage wider adoption of green building practices, through the adoption of demonstration projects.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 423. DEFINITIONS.
In this subtitle:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) ADMINISTRATOR- The term `Administrator' means the Administrator of General Services.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) COMMITTEE- The term `Committee' means the Green Building Advisory Committee established under section 433(a).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) DIRECTOR- The term `Director' means the individual appointed to the position established under section 431(a).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) FEDERAL FACILITY-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- The term `Federal facility' means any building or facility the intended use of which requires the building or facility to be--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) accessible to the public; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) constructed or altered by or on behalf of the United States.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) EXCLUSIONS- The term `Federal facility' does not include a privately-owned residential or commercial structure that is not leased by the Federal Government.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) HIGH-PERFORMANCE GREEN BUILDING- The term `high-performance green building' means a building--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) that, during its life-cycle--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) reduces energy, water, and material resource use and the generation of waste;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) improves indoor environmental quality, including protecting indoor air quality during construction, using low-emitting materials, improving thermal comfort, and improving lighting and acoustic environments that affect occupant health and productivity;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) improves indoor and outdoor impacts of the building on human health and the environment;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iv) increases the use of environmentally preferable products, including biobased, recycled content, and nontoxic products with lower life-cycle impacts;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(v) increases reuse and recycling opportunities; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(vi) integrates systems in the building; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) for which, during its planning, design, and construction, the environmental and energy impacts of building location and site design are considered.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(6) LIFE CYCLE- The term `life cycle', with respect to a high-performance green building, means all stages of the useful life of the building (including components, equipment, systems, and controls of the building) beginning at conception of a green building project and continuing through site selection, design, construction, landscaping, commissioning, operation, maintenance, renovation, deconstruction or demolition, removal, and recycling of the green building.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(7) LIFE-CYCLE ASSESSMENT- The term `life-cycle assessment' means a comprehensive system approach for measuring the environmental performance of a product or service over the life of the product or service, beginning at raw materials acquisition and continuing through manufacturing, transportation, installation, use, reuse, and end-of-life waste management.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(8) LIFE-CYCLE COSTING- The term `life-cycle costing', with respect to a high-performance green building, means a technique of economic evaluation that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) sums, over a given study period, the costs of initial investment (less resale value), replacements, operations (including energy use), and maintenance and repair of an investment decision; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) is expressed--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) in present value terms, in the case of a study period equivalent to the longest useful life of the building, determined by taking into consideration the typical life of such a building in the area in which the building is to be located; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) in annual value terms, in the case of any other study period.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(9) OFFICE- The term `Office' means the Office of High-Performance Green Buildings established under section 432(a).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
PART I--OFFICE OF HIGH-PERFORMANCE GREEN BUILDINGS
SEC. 431. OVERSIGHT.
(a) In General- The Administrator shall establish within the General Services Administration, and appoint an individual to serve as Director in, a position in the career-reserved Senior Executive service, to--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) establish and manage the Office in accordance with section 432; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) carry out other duties as required under this subtitle.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Compensation- The compensation of the Director shall not exceed the maximum rate of basic pay for the Senior Executive Service under
SEC. 432. OFFICE OF HIGH-PERFORMANCE GREEN BUILDINGS.
(a) Establishment- The Director shall establish within the General Services Administration an Office of High-Performance Green Buildings.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Duties- The Director shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) ensure full coordination of high-performance green building information and activities within the General Services Administration and all relevant Federal agencies, including, at a minimum--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) the Environmental Protection Agency;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) the Office of the Federal Environmental Executive;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) the Office of Federal Procurement Policy;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) the Department of Energy;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(E) the Department of Health and Human Services;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(F) the Department of Defense; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(G) such other Federal agencies as the Director considers to be appropriate;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) establish a senior-level green building advisory committee, which shall provide advice and recommendations in accordance with section 433;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) identify and biennially reassess improved or higher rating standards recommended by the Committee;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) establish a national high-performance green building clearinghouse in accordance with section 434, which shall provide green building information through--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) outreach;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) education; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) the provision of technical assistance;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) ensure full coordination of research and development information relating to high-performance green building initiatives under section 435;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(6) identify and develop green building standards that could be used for all types of Federal facilities in accordance with section 435;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(7) establish green practices that can be used throughout the life of a Federal facility;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(8) review and analyze current Federal budget practices and life-cycle costing issues, and make recommendations to Congress, in accordance with section 436; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(9) complete and submit the report described in subsection (c).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Report- Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, and biennially thereafter, the Director shall submit to Congress a report that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) describes the status of the green building initiatives under this subtitle and other Federal programs in effect as of the date of the report, including--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) the extent to which the programs are being carried out in accordance with this subtitle; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) the status of funding requests and appropriations for those programs;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) identifies within the planning, budgeting, and construction process all types of Federal facility procedures that inhibit new and existing Federal facilities from becoming high-performance green buildings, as measured by the standard for high-performance green buildings identified in accordance with subsection (d);CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) identifies inconsistencies, as reported to the Committee, in Federal law with respect to product acquisition guidelines and high-performance product guidelines;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) recommends language for uniform standards for use by Federal agencies in environmentally responsible acquisition;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) in coordination with the Office of Management and Budget, reviews the budget process for capital programs with respect to alternatives for--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) restructuring of budgets to require the use of complete energy- and environmental-cost accounting;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) using operations expenditures in budget-related decisions while simultaneously incorporating productivity and health measures (as those measures can be quantified by the Office, with the assistance of universities and national laboratories);CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) permitting Federal agencies to retain all identified savings accrued as a result of the use of life cycle costing; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) identifying short- and long-term cost savings that accrue from high-performance green buildings, including those relating to health and productivity;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(6) identifies green, self-sustaining technologies to address the operational needs of Federal facilities in times of national security emergencies, natural disasters, or other dire emergencies;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(7) summarizes and highlights development, at the State and local level, of green building initiatives, including Executive orders, policies, or laws adopted promoting green building (including the status of implementation of those initiatives); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(8) includes, for the 2-year period covered by the report, recommendations to address each of the matters, and a plan for implementation of each recommendation, described in paragraphs (1) through (6).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(d) Identification of Standard-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- For the purpose of subsection (c)(2), not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Director shall identify a standard that the Director determines to be the most likely to encourage a comprehensive and environmentally-sound approach to certification of green buildings.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) BASIS- The standard identified under paragraph (1) shall be based on--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) a biennial study, which shall be carried out by the Director to compare and evaluate standards;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) the ability and availability of assessors and auditors to independently verify the criteria and measurement of metrics at the scale necessary to implement this subtitle;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) the ability of the applicable standard-setting organization to collect and reflect public comment;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) the ability of the standard to be developed and revised through a consensus-based process;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(E) an evaluation of the adequacy of the standard, which shall give credit for--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) efficient and sustainable use of water, energy, and other natural resources;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) use of renewable energy sources;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) improved indoor environmental quality through enhanced indoor air quality, thermal comfort, acoustics, day lighting, pollutant source control, and use of low-emission materials and building system controls; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iv) such other criteria as the Director determines to be appropriate; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(F) national recognition within the building industry.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) BIENNIAL REVIEW- The Director shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) conduct a biennial review of the standard identified under paragraph (1); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) include the results of each biennial review in the report required to be submitted under subsection (c).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(e) Implementation- The Office shall carry out each plan for implementation of recommendations under subsection (c)(7).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 433. GREEN BUILDING ADVISORY COMMITTEE.
(a) Establishment- Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Director shall establish an advisory committee, to be known as the `Green Building Advisory Committee'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Membership-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- The Committee shall be composed of representatives of, at a minimum--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) each agency referred to in section 432(b)(1); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) other relevant agencies and entities, as determined by the Director, including at least 1 representative of each of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) State and local governmental green building programs;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) independent green building associations or councils;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) building experts, including architects, material suppliers, and construction contractors;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iv) security advisors focusing on national security needs, natural disasters, and other dire emergency situations; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(v) environmental health experts, including those with experience in children's health.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) NON-FEDERAL MEMBERS- The total number of non-Federal members on the Committee at any time shall not exceed 15.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Meetings- The Director shall establish a regular schedule of meetings for the Committee.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(d) Duties- The Committee shall provide advice and expertise for use by the Director in carrying out the duties under this subtitle, including such recommendations relating to Federal activities carried out under sections 434 through 436 as are agreed to by a majority of the members of the Committee.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(e) FACA Exemption- The Committee shall not be subject to section 14 of the Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App.).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 434. PUBLIC OUTREACH.
The Director, in coordination with the Committee, shall carry out public outreach to inform individuals and entities of the information and services available Government-wide by--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) establishing and maintaining a national high-performance green building clearinghouse, including on the Internet, that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) identifies existing similar efforts and coordinates activities of common interest; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) provides information relating to high-performance green buildings, including hyperlinks to Internet sites that describe related activities, information, and resources of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) the Federal Government;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) State and local governments;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) the private sector (including nongovernmental and nonprofit entities and organizations); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iv) other relevant organizations, including those from other countries;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) identifying and recommending educational resources for implementing high-performance green building practices, including security and emergency benefits and practices;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) providing access to technical assistance on using tools and resources to make more cost-effective, energy-efficient, health-protective, and environmentally beneficial decisions for constructing high-performance green buildings, including tools available to conduct life-cycle costing and life-cycle assessment;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) providing information on application processes for certifying a high-performance green building, including certification and commissioning;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) providing technical information, market research, or other forms of assistance or advice that would be useful in planning and constructing high-performance green buildings; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(6) using such other methods as are determined by the Director to be appropriate.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 435. RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT.
(a) Establishment- The Director, in coordination with the Committee, shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1)(A) survey existing research and studies relating to high-performance green buildings; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) coordinate activities of common interest;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) develop and recommend a high-performance green building research plan that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) identifies information and research needs, including the relationships between human health, occupant productivity, and each of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) emissions from materials and products in the building;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) natural day lighting;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) ventilation choices and technologies;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iv) heating, cooling, and system control choices and technologies;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(v) moisture control and mold;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(vi) maintenance, cleaning, and pest control activities;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(vii) acoustics; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(viii) other issues relating to the health, comfort, productivity, and performance of occupants of the building; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) promotes the development and dissemination of high-performance green building measurement tools that, at a minimum, may be used--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) to monitor and assess the life-cycle performance of facilities (including demonstration projects) built as high-performance green buildings; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) to perform life-cycle assessments;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) assist the budget and life-cycle costing functions of the Office under section 436;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) study and identify potential benefits of green buildings relating to security, natural disaster, and emergency needs of the Federal Government; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) support other research initiatives determined by the Office.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Indoor Air Quality- The Director, in consultation with the Committee, shall develop and carry out a comprehensive indoor air quality program for all Federal facilities to ensure the safety of Federal workers and facility occupants--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) during new construction and renovation of facilities; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) in existing facilities.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 436. BUDGET AND LIFE-CYCLE COSTING AND CONTRACTING.
(a) Establishment- The Director, in coordination with the Committee, shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) identify, review, and analyze current budget and contracting practices that affect achievement of high-performance green buildings, including the identification of barriers to green building life-cycle costing and budgetary issues;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) develop guidance and conduct training sessions with budget specialists and contracting personnel from Federal agencies and budget examiners to apply life-cycle cost criteria to actual projects;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) identify tools to aid life-cycle cost decisionmaking; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) explore the feasibility of incorporating the benefits of green buildings, such as security benefits, into a cost-budget analysis to aid in life-cycle costing for budget and decision making processes.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 437. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this part $4,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2008 through 2012, to remain available until expended.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
PART II--HEALTHY HIGH-PERFORMANCE SCHOOLS
SEC. 441. DEFINITION OF HIGH-PERFORMANCE SCHOOL.
In this part, the term `high-performance school' has the meaning given the term `healthy, high-performance school building' in section 5586 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (
SEC. 442. GRANTS FOR HEALTHY SCHOOL ENVIRONMENTS.
The Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, in consultation with the Secretary of Education, may provide grants to qualified State agencies for use in--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) providing technical assistance for programs of the Environmental Protection Agency (including the Tools for Schools Program and the Healthy School Environmental Assessment Tool) to schools for use in addressing environmental issues; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) development of State school environmental quality plans that include--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) standards for school building design, construction, and renovation; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) identification of ongoing school building environmental problems in the State and recommended solutions to address those problems, including assessment of information on the exposure of children to environmental hazards in school facilities.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 443. MODEL GUIDELINES FOR SITING OF SCHOOL FACILITIES.
The Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, in consultation with the Secretary of Education and the Secretary of Health and Human Services, shall develop voluntary school site selection guidelines that account for--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) the special vulnerability of children to hazardous substances or pollution exposures in any case in which the potential for contamination at a potential school site exists;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) modes of transportation available to students and staff;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) the efficient use of energy; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) the potential use of a school at the site as an emergency shelter.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 444. PUBLIC OUTREACH.
(a) In General- The Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency shall provide to the Director information relating to all activities carried out under this part, which the Director shall include in the report described in section 432(c).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Public Outreach- The Director shall ensure, to the maximum extent practicable, that the public clearinghouse established under section 434 receives and makes available information on the exposure of children to environmental hazards in school facilities, as provided by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 445. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PROGRAM.
(a) In General- The Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, in consultation with the Secretary of Education, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, and other relevant agencies, shall issue voluntary guidelines for use by the State in developing and implementing an environmental health program for schools that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) takes into account the status and findings of Federal research initiatives established under this subtitle and other relevant Federal law with respect to school facilities, including relevant updates on trends in the field, such as the impact of school facility environments on student and staff--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) health, safety, and productivity; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) disabilities or special needs;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) provides research using relevant tools identified or developed in accordance with section 435(a) to quantify the relationships between--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) human health, occupant productivity, and student performance; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) with respect to school facilities, each of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) pollutant emissions from materials and products;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) natural day lighting;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) ventilation choices and technologies;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iv) heating and cooling choices and technologies;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(v) moisture control and mold;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(vi) maintenance, cleaning, and pest control activities;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(vii) acoustics; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(viii) other issues relating to the health, comfort, productivity, and performance of occupants of the school facilities;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) provides technical assistance on siting, design, management, and operation of school facilities, including facilities used by students with disabilities or special needs;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) collaborates with federally funded pediatric environmental health centers to assist in on-site school environmental investigations;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) assists States and the public in better understanding and improving the environmental health of children; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(6) provides to the Office a biennial report of all activities carried out under this part, which the Director shall include in the report described in section 432(c).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Public Outreach- The Director shall ensure, to the maximum extent practicable, that the public clearinghouse established under section 434 receives and makes available--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) information from the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency that is contained in the report described in subsection (a)(6); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) information on the exposure of children to environmental hazards in school facilities, as provided by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 446. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this part $10,000,000 for the period of fiscal years 2008 through 2012, to remain available until expended.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
PART III--STRENGTHENING FEDERAL LEADERSHIP
SEC. 451. INCENTIVES.
As soon as practicable after the date of enactment of this Act, the Director shall identify incentives to encourage the use of green buildings and related technology in the operations of the Federal Government, including through--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) the provision of recognition awards; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) the maximum feasible retention of financial savings in the annual budgets of Federal agencies.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 452. FEDERAL PROCUREMENT.
(a) In General- Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Director of the Office of Federal Procurement Policy, in consultation with the Director and the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics, shall promulgate revisions of the applicable acquisition regulations, to take effect as of the date of promulgation of the revisions--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) to direct any Federal procurement executives involved in the acquisition, construction, or major renovation (including contracting for the construction or major renovation) of any facility, to the maximum extent practicable--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) to employ integrated design principles;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) to optimize building and systems energy performance;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) to protect and conserve water;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) to enhance indoor environmental quality; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(E) to reduce environmental impacts of materials and waste flows; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) to direct Federal procurement executives involved in leasing buildings, to give preference to the lease of facilities that, to the maximum extent practicable--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) are energy-efficient; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) have applied contemporary high-performance and sustainable design principles during construction or renovation.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Guidance- Not later than 90 days after the date of promulgation of the revised regulations under subsection (a), the Director shall issue guidance to all Federal procurement executives providing direction and the option to renegotiate the design of proposed facilities, renovations for existing facilities, and leased facilities to incorporate improvements that are consistent with this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 453. FEDERAL GREEN BUILDING PERFORMANCE.
(a) In General- Not later than October 31 of each of the 2 fiscal years following the fiscal year in which this Act is enacted, and at such times thereafter as the Comptroller General of the United States determines to be appropriate, the Comptroller General of the United States shall, with respect to the fiscal years that have passed since the preceding report--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) conduct an audit of the implementation of this subtitle; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) submit to the Office, the Committee, the Administrator, and Congress a report describing the results of the audit.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Contents- An audit under subsection (a) shall include a review, with respect to the period covered by the report under subsection (a)(2), of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) budget, life-cycle costing, and contracting issues, using best practices identified by the Comptroller General of the United States and heads of other agencies in accordance with section 436;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) the level of coordination among the Office, the Office of Management and Budget, and relevant agencies;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) the performance of the Office in carrying out the implementation plan;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) the design stage of high-performance green building measures;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) high-performance building data that were collected and reported to the Office; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(6) such other matters as the Comptroller General of the United States determines to be appropriate.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Environmental Stewardship Scorecard- The Director shall consult with the Committee to enhance, and assist in the implementation of, the Environmental Stewardship Scorecard announced at the White House summit on Federal sustainable buildings in January 2006, to measure the implementation by each Federal agency of sustainable design and green building initiatives.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 454. STORM WATER RUNOFF REQUIREMENTS FOR FEDERAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS.
The sponsor of any development or redevelopment project involving a Federal facility with a footprint that exceeds 5,000 square feet shall use site planning, design, construction, and maintenance strategies for the property to maintain, to the maximum extent technically feasible, the predevelopment hydrology of the property with regard to the temperature, rate, volume, and duration of flow.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
PART IV--DEMONSTRATION PROJECT
SEC. 461. COORDINATION OF GOALS.
(a) In General- The Director shall establish guidelines to implement a demonstration project to contribute to the research goals of the Office.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Projects-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- In accordance with guidelines established by the Director under subsection (a) and the duties of the Director described in part I, the Director shall carry out 3 demonstration projects.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) LOCATION OF PROJECTS- Each project carried out under paragraph (1) shall be located in a Federal building in a State recommended by the Director in accordance with subsection (c).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) REQUIREMENTS- Each project carried out under paragraph (1) shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) provide for the evaluation of the information obtained through the conduct of projects and activities under this subtitle; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) achieve the highest available rating under the standard identified pursuant to section 432(d).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Criteria- With respect to the existing or proposed Federal facility at which a demonstration project under this section is conducted, the Federal facility shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) be an appropriate model for a project relating to--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) the effectiveness of high-performance technologies;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) analysis of materials, components, and systems, including the impact on the health of building occupants;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) life-cycle costing and life-cycle assessment of building materials and systems; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) location and design that promote access to the Federal facility through walking, biking, and mass transit; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) possess sufficient technological and organizational adaptability.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(d) Report- Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter through September 30, 2013, the Director shall submit to the Administrator a report that describes the status of and findings regarding the demonstration project.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 462. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out the Federal demonstration project described in section 461(b) $10,000,000 for the period of fiscal years 2008 through 2012, to remain available until expended.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
TITLE V--CORPORATE AVERAGE FUEL ECONOMY STANDARDS
SEC. 501. SHORT TITLE.
This title may be cited as the `Ten-in-Ten Fuel Economy Act'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 502. AVERAGE FUEL ECONOMY STANDARDS FOR AUTOMOBILES AND CERTAIN OTHER VEHICLES.
(a) Increased Standards-
(1) by striking `Non-Passenger Automobiles- ' in subsection (a) and inserting `Prescription of Standards by Regulation- ';CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) by striking `(except passenger automobiles)' in subsection (a); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) by striking subsection (b) and inserting the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(b) Standards for Automobiles and Certain Other Vehicles-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) IN GENERAL- The Secretary of Transportation, after consultation with the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, shall prescribe average fuel economy standards for--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) automobiles manufactured by manufacturers in each model year beginning with model year 2011 in accordance with subsection (c); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) commercial medium-duty or heavy-duty on-highway vehicles in accordance with subsection (k).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) FUEL ECONOMY TARGET FOR AUTOMOBILES-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) AUTOMOBILE FUEL ECONOMY AVERAGE FOR MODEL YEARS 2011 THROUGH 2020- The Secretary shall prescribe average fuel economy standards for automobiles in each model year beginning with model year 2011 to achieve a combined fuel economy average for model year 2020 of at least 35 miles per gallon for the fleet of automobiles manufactured or sold in the United States. The average fuel economy standards prescribed by the Secretary shall be the maximum feasible average fuel economy standards for model years 2011 through 2019.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) AUTOMOBILE FUEL ECONOMY AVERAGE FOR MODEL YEARS 2021 THROUGH 2030- For model years 2021 through 2030, the average fuel economy required to be attained by the fleet of automobiles manufactured or sold in the United States shall be the maximum feasible average fuel economy standard for the fleet.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) PROGRESS TOWARD STANDARD REQUIRED- In prescribing average fuel economy standards under subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall prescribe annual fuel economy standard increases that increase the applicable average fuel economy standard ratably beginning with model year 2011 and ending with model year 2020.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Fuel Economy Target for Commercial Medium-Duty and Heavy-Duty On-Highway Vehicles-
`(k) Commercial Medium- and Heavy-Duty On-Highway Vehicles-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) STUDY- No later than 18 months after the date of enactment of the Ten-in-Ten Fuel Economy Act, the Secretary of Transportation, in consultation with the Secretary of Energy and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, shall examine the fuel efficiency of commercial medium- and heavy-duty on-highway vehicles and determine--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) the appropriate test procedures and methodologies for measuring commercial medium- and heavy-duty on-highway vehicle fuel efficiency;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) the appropriate metric for measuring and expressing commercial medium- and heavy-duty on-highway vehicle fuel efficiency performance, taking into consideration, among other things, the work performed by such on-highway vehicles and types of operations in which they are used;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) the range of factors, including, without limitation, design, functionality, use, duty cycle, infrastructure, and total overall energy consumption and operating costs that effect commercial medium- and heavy-duty on-highway vehicle fuel efficiency; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(D) such other factors and conditions that could have an impact on a program to improve commercial medium- and heavy-duty on-highway vehicle fuel efficiency.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) RULEMAKING- No later than 24 months after completion of the study required by paragraph (1), the Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of Energy and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, by regulation, shall determine in a rulemaking procedure how to implement a commercial medium- and heavy-duty on-highway vehicle fuel efficiency improvement program designed to achieve the maximum feasible improvement, and shall adopt appropriate test methods, measurement metrics, fuel economy standards, and compliance and enforcement protocols that are appropriate, cost-effective, and technologically feasible for commercial medium- and heavy-duty on-highway vehicles.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(3) LEAD-TIME; REGULATORY STABILITY- Any commercial medium- and heavy-duty on-highway vehicle fuel efficiency regulatory program adopted pursuant to this subsection shall provide no less than 4 full model years of regulatory lead-time and 3 full model years of regulatory stability.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(4) COMMERCIAL MEDIUM- AND HEAVY-DUTY ON-HIGHWAY VEHICLE DEFINED- In this subsection, the term `commercial medium- and heavy-duty on-highway vehicle' means an on-highway vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of more than 8,500 pounds, and that, in the case of a vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of less than 10,000 pounds, is not an automobile.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Authority of Secretary-
`(l) Authority of the Secretary-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) VEHICLE ATTRIBUTES; MODEL YEARS COVERED- The Secretary shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) prescribe by regulation average fuel economy standards for automobiles based on vehicle attributes related to fuel economy and to express the standards in the form of a mathematical function; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) issue regulations under this title prescribing average fuel economy standards for 1 or more model years.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) PROHIBITION OF UNIFORM PERCENTAGE INCREASE- When the Secretary prescribes a standard, or prescribes an amendment under this section that changes a standard, the standard may not be expressed as a uniform percentage increase from the fuel-economy performance of attribute classes or categories already achieved in a model year by a manufacturer.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 503. AMENDING FUEL ECONOMY STANDARDS.
(a) In General-
`(c) Amending Fuel Economy Standards- Notwithstanding subsections (a) and (b), the Secretary of Transportation--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) may prescribe a standard higher than that required under subsection (b); orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) may prescribe an average fuel economy standard for automobiles that is the maximum feasible level for the model year, despite being lower than the standard required under subsection (b), if the Secretary determines, based on clear and convincing evidence, that the average fuel economy standard prescribed in accordance with subsections (a) and (b) for automobiles in that model year is shown not to be cost-effective.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Feasibility Criteria-
`(f) Decisions on Maximum Feasible Average Fuel Economy-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) IN GENERAL- When deciding maximum feasible average fuel economy under this section, the Secretary shall consider--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) economic practicability;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) the effect of other motor vehicle standards of the Government on fuel economy;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) environmental impacts; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(D) the need of the United States to conserve energy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) LIMITATIONS- In setting any standard under subsection (b), (c), or (d), the Secretary shall ensure that each standard is the highest standard that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) is technologically achievable;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) can be achieved without materially reducing the overall safety of automobiles manufactured or sold in the United States;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) is not less than the standard for that class of vehicles from any prior year; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(D) is cost-effective.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(3) COST-EFFECTIVE DEFINED- In this subsection, the term `cost-effective' means that the value to the United States of reduced fuel use from a proposed fuel economy standard is greater than or equal to the cost to the United States of such standard. In determining cost-effectiveness, the Secretary shall give priority to those technologies and packages of technologies that offer the largest reduction in fuel use relative to their costs.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(4) FACTORS FOR CONSIDERATION BY SECRETARY IN DETERMINING COST-EFFECTIVENESS- The Secretary shall consult with the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, and may consult with such other departments and agencies as the Secretary deems appropriate, and shall consider in the analysis the following factors:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) Economic security.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) The impact of the oil or energy intensity of the United States economy on the sensitivity of the economy to oil and other fuel price changes, including the magnitude of gross domestic product losses in response to short term price shocks or long term price increases.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) National security, including the impact of United States payments for oil and other fuel imports on political, economic, and military developments in unstable or unfriendly oil-exporting countries.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(D) The uninternalized costs of pipeline and storage oil seepage, and for risk of oil spills from production, handling, and transport, and related landscape damage.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(E) The emissions of pollutants including greenhouse gases over the lifecycle of the fuel and the resulting costs to human health, the economy, and the environment.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(F) Such additional factors as the Secretary deems relevant.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(5) MINIMUM VALUATION- When considering the value to consumers of a gallon of gasoline saved, the Secretary of Transportation shall use as a minimum value the greater of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) the average value of gasoline prices projected by the Energy Information Administration over the period covered by the standard; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) the average value of gasoline prices for the 5-year period immediately preceding the year in which the standard is established.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Consultation Requirement-
(d) Comments-
(1) by striking paragraph (1) and inserting `(1) Before issuing a notice proposing to prescribe or amend an average fuel economy standard under subsection (b), (c), or (g) of this section, the Secretary of Transportation shall give the Secretary of Energy and Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency at least 30 days after the receipt of the notice during which the Secretary of Energy and Administrator may, if the Secretary of Energy or Administrator concludes that the proposed standard would adversely affect the conservation goals of the Secretary of Energy or environmental protection goals of the Administrator, provide written comments to the Secretary of Transportation about the impact of the standard on those goals. To the extent the Secretary of Transportation does not revise a proposed standard to take into account comments of the Secretary of Energy or Administrator on any adverse impact of the standard, the Secretary of Transportation shall include those comments in the notice.'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) by inserting `and the Administrator' after `Energy' each place it appears in paragraph (2).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(e) Alternative Fuel Economy Standards for Low Volume Manufacturers and New Entrants-
`(d) Alternative Average Fuel Economy Standard-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) IN GENERAL- Upon the application of an eligible manufacturer, the Secretary of Transportation may prescribe an alternative average fuel economy standard for automobiles manufactured by that manufacturer if the Secretary determines that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) the applicable standard prescribed under subsection (a), (b), or (c) is more stringent than the maximum feasible average fuel economy level that manufacturer can achieve; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) the alternative average fuel economy standard prescribed under this subsection is the maximum feasible average fuel economy level that manufacturer can achieve.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) APPLICATION OF ALTERNATIVE STANDARD- The Secretary may provide for the application of an alternative average fuel economy standard prescribed under paragraph (1) to--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) the manufacturer that applied for the alternative average fuel economy standard;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) all automobiles to which this subsection applies; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) classes of automobiles manufactured by eligible manufacturers.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(3) IMPORTERS- Notwithstanding paragraph (1), an importer registered under section 30141(c) may not be exempted as a manufacturer under paragraph (1) for an automobile that the importer--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) imports; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) brings into compliance with applicable motor vehicle safety standards prescribed under chapter 301 for an individual described in section 30142.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(4) APPLICATION- The Secretary of Transportation may prescribe the contents of an application for an alternative average fuel economy standard.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(5) ELIGIBLE MANUFACTURER DEFINED- In this section, the term `eligible manufacturer' means a manufacturer that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) is not owned in whole or in part by another manufacturer that sold greater than 0.5 percent of the number of automobiles sold in the United States in the model year prior to the model year to which the application relates;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) sold in the United States fewer than 0.4 percent of the number of automobiles sold in the United States in the model year that is 2 years before the model year to which the application relates; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) will sell in the United States fewer than 0.4 percent of the automobiles sold in the United States for the model year for which the alternative average fuel economy standard will apply.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(6) LIMITATION- For purposes of this subsection, notwithstanding section 32901(a)(4), the term `automobile manufactured by a manufacturer' includes every automobile manufactuered by a person that controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with the manufacturer.'CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(f) Technical and Conforming Amendments-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1)
(2)
(A) by striking `subsection (a) or (d)' each place it appears in paragraph (1) and inserting `subsection (b), (c), or (d)'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) striking `(and submit the amendment to Congress when required under subsection (c)(2) of this section)' in paragraph (2).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 504. DEFINITIONS.
(a) In General-
(1) by striking paragraph (3) and inserting the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(3) except as provided in section 32908 of this title, `automobile' means a 4-wheeled vehicle that is propelled by fuel, or by alternative fuel, manufactured primarily for use on public streets, roads, and highways and rated at not more than 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight, except--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) a vehicle operated only on a rail line;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) a vehicle manufactured by 2 or more manufacturers in different stages and less than 10,000 of which are manufactured per year; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) a work truck.'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) by adding at the end the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(17) `work truck' means an automobile that the Secretary determines by regulation--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) is rated at between 8,500 and 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) is not a medium-duty passenger vehicle (as defined in section 86.1803-01 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations).'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Deadline for Regulations- The Secretary of Transportation--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) shall issue proposed regulations implementing the amendments made by subsection (a) not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) shall issue final regulations implementing the amendments not later than 18 months after the date of the enactment of this Act.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Effective Date- Regulations prescribed under subsection (b) shall apply beginning with model year 2010.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 505. ENSURING SAFETY OF AUTOMOBILES.
(a) In General- Subchapter II of chapter 301 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`Sec. 30129. Vehicle compatibility standard
`(a) Standards- The Secretary of Transportation shall issue a motor vehicle safety standard to reduce automobile incompatibility. The standard shall address characteristics necessary to ensure better management of crash forces in multiple vehicle frontal and side impact crashes between different types, sizes, and weights of automobiles with a gross vehicle weight of 10,000 pounds or less in order to decrease occupant deaths and injuries.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(b) Consumer Information- The Secretary shall develop and implement a public information side and frontal compatibility crash test program with vehicle ratings based on risks to occupants, risks to other motorists, and combined risks by vehicle make and model.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Rulemaking Deadlines-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) RULEMAKING- The Secretary of Transportation shall issue--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) a notice of a proposed rulemaking under
(B) a final rule under such section not later than December 31, 2014.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) EFFECTIVE DATE OF REQUIREMENTS- Any requirement imposed under the final rule issued under paragraph (1) shall become fully effective not later than September 1, 2018.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Conforming Amendment- The chapter analysis for chapter 301 is amended by inserting after the item relating to section 30128 the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`30129. Vehicle compatibility standard.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 506. CREDIT TRADING PROGRAM.
(1) by striking `passenger' each place it appears;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) by striking `section 32902(b)-(d) of this title' each place it appears and inserting `subsection (a), (c), or (d) of section 32902';CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) by striking `3 consecutive model years' in subsection (a)(2) and inserting `5 consecutive model years';CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) in subsection (a)(2), by striking `clause (1) of this subsection,' and inserting `paragraph (1)'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) by striking subsection (e) and inserting the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(e) Credit Trading Among Manufacturers- The Secretary of Transportation may establish, by regulation, a corporate average fuel economy credit trading program to allow manufacturers whose automobiles exceed the average fuel economy standards prescribed under section 32902 to earn credits to be sold to manufacturers whose automobiles fail to achieve the prescribed standards such that the total oil savings associated with manufacturers that exceed the prescribed standards are preserved when transferring credits to manufacturers that fail to achieve the prescribed standards.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 507. LABELS FOR FUEL ECONOMY AND GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS.
(1) by redesignating subparagraph (F) of subsection (b)(1) as subparagraph (H) and inserting after subparagraph (E) the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(F) a label (or a logo imprinted on a label required by this paragraph) that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) reflects an automobile's performance on the basis of criteria developed by the Administrator to reflect the fuel economy and greenhouse gas and other emissions consequences of operating the automobile over its likely useful life;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) permits consumers to compare performance results under clause (i) among all automobiles; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iii) is designed to encourage the manufacture and sale of automobiles that meet or exceed applicable fuel economy standards under section 32902.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(G) a fuelstar under paragraph (5).'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) by adding at the end of subsection (b) the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(4) Green Label Program-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) MARKETING ANALYSIS- Not later than 2 years after the date of the enactment of the Ten-in-Ten Fuel Economy Act, the Administrator shall implement a consumer education program and execute marketing strategies to improve consumer understanding of automobile performance described in paragraph (1)(F).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) ELIGIBILITY- Not later than 3 years after the date described in subparagraph (A), the Administrator shall issue requirements for the label or logo required under paragraph (1)(F) to ensure that an automobile is not eligible for the label or logo unless it--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) meets or exceeds the applicable fuel economy standard; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) will have the lowest greenhouse gas emissions over the useful life of the vehicle of all vehicles in the vehicle attribute class to which it belongs in that model year.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(5) Fuelstar Program-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) IN GENERAL- The Secretary shall establish a program, to be known as the `Fuelstar Program', under which stars shall be imprinted on or attached to the label required by paragraph (1).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) GREEN STARS- Under the Fuelstar Program, a manufacturer may include on the label maintained on an automobile under paragraph (1)--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) 1 green star for any automobile that meets the average fuel economy standard for the model year under section 32902; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) 1 additional green star for each 2 miles per gallon by which the automobile exceeds such standard.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) GOLD STARS- Under the Fuelstar Program, a manufacturer may include a gold star on the label maintained on an automobile under paragraph (1) if the automobile attains a fuel economy of at least 50 miles per gallon.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 508. CONTINUED APPLICABILITY OF EXISTING STANDARDS.
Nothing in this title, or the amendments made by this title, shall be construed to affect the application of
SEC. 509. NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES STUDIES.
(a) In General- As soon as practicable after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall execute an agreement with the National Academy of Sciences to develop a report evaluating vehicle fuel economy standards, including--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) an assessment of automotive technologies and costs to reflect developments since the Academy's 2002 report evaluating the corporate average fuel economy standards was conducted;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) an analysis of existing and potential technologies that may be used practically to improve automobile and medium-duty and heavy-duty truck fuel economy;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) an analysis of how such technologies may be practically integrated into the automotive and medium-duty and heavy-duty truck manufacturing process; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) an assessment of how such technologies may be used to meet the new fuel economy standards under chapter 329 of title 49, United States Code, as amended by this title.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Quinquennial Updates- After submitting the initial report, the Academy shall update the report at 5 year intervals thereafter through 2025.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Report- The Academy shall submit the report to the Secretary, the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and the House of Representatives Committee on Energy and Commerce, with its findings and recommendations no later than 18 months after the date on which the Secretary executes the agreement with the Academy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 510. STANDARDS FOR EXECUTIVE AGENCY AUTOMOBILES.
(a) In General-
`Sec. 32917. Standards for Executive Agency automobiles
`(a) Fuel Efficiency- The head of an Executive agency shall ensure that each new automobile procured by the Executive agency is as fuel efficient as practicable.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(b) Definitions- In this section:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) EXECUTIVE AGENCY- The term `Executive agency' has the meaning given that term in section 105 of title 5.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) NEW AUTOMOBILE- The term `new automobile', with respect to the fleet of automobiles of an executive agency, means an automobile that is leased for at least 60 consecutive days or bought, by or for the Executive agency, after September 30, 2008. The term does not include any vehicle designed for combat-related missions, law enforcement work, or emergency rescue work.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Report- The Administrator of the General Services Administration shall develop a report describing and evaluating the efforts of the heads of the Executive agencies to comply with
SEC. 511. INCREASING CONSUMER AWARENESS OF FLEXIBLE FUEL AUTOMOBILES.
`(g) Increasing Consumer Awareness of Flexible Fuel Automobiles- (1) The Secretary of Energy, in consultation with the Secretary of Transportation, shall prescribe regulations that require the manufacturer of automobiles distributed in interstate commerce for sale in the United States--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) to prominently display a permanent badge or emblem on the quarter panel or tailgate of each such automobile that indicates such vehicle is capable of operating on alternative fuel; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) to include information in the owner's manual of each such automobile information that describes--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) the capability of the automobile to operate using alternative fuel;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) the benefits of using alternative fuel, including the renewable nature, and the environmental benefits of using alternative fuel; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) to contain a fuel tank cap that is clearly labeled to inform consumers that the automobile is capable of operating on alternative fuel.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) The Secretary of Transportation shall collaborate with automobile retailers to develop voluntary methods for providing prospective purchasers of automobiles with information regarding the benefits of using alternative fuel in automobiles, including--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) the renewable nature of alternative fuel; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) the environmental benefits of using alternative fuel.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 512. PERIODIC REVIEW OF ACCURACY OF FUEL ECONOMY LABELING PROCEDURES.
Beginning in December, 2009, and not less often than every 5 years thereafter, the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, in consultation with the Secretary of Transportation, shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) reevaluate the fuel economy labeling procedures described in the final rule published in the Federal Register on December 27, 2006 (71 Fed. Reg. 77,872; 40 C.F.R. parts 86 and 600) to determine whether changes in the factors used to establish the labeling procedures warrant a revision of that process; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) submit a report to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and the House of Representatives Committee on Energy and Commerce that describes the results of the reevaluation process.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 513. TIRE FUEL EFFICIENCY CONSUMER INFORMATION.
(a) In General- Chapter 301 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section 30123 the following new section:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`Sec. 30123A. Tire fuel efficiency consumer information
`(a) Rulemaking-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) IN GENERAL- Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of the Ten-in-Ten Fuel Economy Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall, after notice and opportunity for comment, promulgate rules establishing a national tire fuel efficiency consumer information program for tires designed for use on motor vehicles to educate consumers about the effect of tires on automobile fuel efficiency.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) ITEMS INCLUDED IN RULE- The rulemaking shall include--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) a national tire fuel efficiency rating system for motor vehicle tires to assist consumers in making more educated tire purchasing decisions;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) requirements for providing information to consumers, including information at the point of sale and other potential information dissemination methods, including the Internet;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) specifications for test methods for manufacturers to use in assessing and rating tires to avoid variation among test equipment and manufacturers; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(D) a national tire maintenance consumer education program including, information on tire inflation pressure, alignment, rotation, and tread wear to maximize fuel efficiency.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(3) APPLICABILITY- This section shall not apply to tires excluded from coverage under section 575.104(c)(2) of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, as in effect on date of enactment of the Ten-in-Ten Fuel Economy Act.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(b) Consultation- The Secretary shall consult with the Secretary of Energy and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency on the means of conveying tire fuel efficiency consumer information.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(c) Report to Congress- The Secretary shall conduct periodic assessments of the rules promulgated under this section to determine the utility of such rules to consumers, the level of cooperation by industry, and the contribution to national goals pertaining to energy consumption. The Secretary shall transmit periodic reports detailing the findings of such assessments to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and the House of Representatives Committee on Energy and Commerce.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(d) Tire Marking- The Secretary shall not require permanent labeling of any kind on a tire for the purpose of tire fuel efficiency information.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(e) Preemption- When a requirement under this section is in effect, a State or political subdivision of a State may adopt or enforce a law or regulation on tire fuel efficiency consumer information only if the law or regulation is identical to that requirement. Nothing in this section shall be construed to preempt a State or political subdivision of a State from regulating the fuel efficiency of tires not otherwise preempted under this chapter.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Enforcement-
`(4) SECTION 30123a- Any person who fails to comply with the national tire fuel efficiency consumer information program under section 30123A is liable to the United States Government for a civil penalty of not more than $50,000 for each violation.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Conforming Amendment- The chapter analysis for chapter 301 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by inserting after the item relating to section 30123 the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`30123A. Tire fuel efficiency consumer information.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 514. ADVANCED BATTERY INITIATIVE.
(a) In General- The Secretary of Energy, in consultation with the Secretary of Transportation, shall establish and carry out an Advanced Battery Initiative in accordance with this section to support research, development, demonstration, and commercial application of battery technologies.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Industry Alliance- Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall competitively select an Industry Alliance to represent participants who are private, for-profit firms headquartered in the United States, the primary business of which is the manufacturing of batteries.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Research-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) GRANTS- The Secretary shall carry out research activities of the Initiative through competitively-awarded grants to--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) researchers, including Industry Alliance participants;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) small businesses;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) National Laboratories; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) institutions of higher education.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) INDUSTRY ALLIANCE- The Secretary shall annually solicit from the Industry Alliance--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) comments to identify advanced battery technology and battery systems needs relevant to--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) electric drive technology; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) other applications the Secretary deems appropriate;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) an assessment of the progress of research activities of the Initiative; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) assistance in annually updating advanced battery technology and battery systems roadmaps.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(d) Availability to the Public- The information and roadmaps developed under this section shall be available to the public.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(e) Preference- In making awards under this subsection, the Secretary shall give preference to participants in the Industry Alliance.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(f) Cost Sharing- In carrying out this section, the Secretary shall require cost sharing in accordance with
(g) Authorization of Appropriations- There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section such sums as may be necessary for each of fiscal years 2008 through 2012.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 515. BIODIESEL STANDARDS.
(a) In General- Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, in consultation with the Secretary of Transportation and the Secretary of Energy, shall promulgate regulations to ensure that all diesel-equivalent fuels derived from renewable biomass that are introduced into interstate commerce are tested and certified to comply with appropriate American Society for Testing and Materials standards.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Definitions- In this section:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) BIODIESEL-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- The term `biodiesel' means the monoalkyl esters of long chain fatty acids derived from plant or animal matter that meet--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) the registration requirements for fuels and fuel additives established by the Environmental Protection Agency under section 211 of the Clean Air Act (
(ii) the requirements of the American Society of Testing and Materials D6751.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) INCLUSIONS- The term `biodiesel' includes esters described in subparagraph (A) derived from--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) animal waste, including poultry fat, poultry waste, and other waste material; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) municipal solid waste, sludge, and oil derived from wastewater or the treatment of wastewater.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) BIODIESEL BLEND- The term `biodiesel blend' means a mixture of biodiesel and diesel fuel, including--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) a blend of biodiesel and diesel fuel approximately 5 percent of the content of which is biodiesel (commonly known as `B5'); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) a blend of biodiesel and diesel fuel approximately 20 percent of the content of which is biodiesel (commonly known as `B20').CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 516. USE OF CIVIL PENALTIES FOR RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT.
`(e) Use of Civil Penalties- For fiscal year 2008 and each fiscal year thereafter, from the total amount deposited in the general fund of the Treasury during the preceding fiscal year from fines, penalties, and other funds obtained through enforcement actions conducted pursuant to this section (including funds obtained under consent decrees), the Secretary of the Treasury, subject to the availability of appropriations, shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) transfer 50 percent of such total amount to the account providing appropriations to the Secretary of Transportation for the administration of this chapter, which shall be used by the Secretary to carry out a program of research and development into fuel saving automotive technologies and to support rulemaking under this chapter; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) transfer 50 percent of such total amount to the Energy Security Fund established by section 517(a) of the Ten-in-Ten Fuel Economy Act.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 517. ENERGY SECURITY FUND AND ALTERNATIVE FUEL GRANT PROGRAM.
(a) Establishment of Fund-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- There is established in the Treasury a fund, to be known as the `Energy Security Fund' (referred to in this section as the `Fund'), consisting of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) amounts transferred to the Fund under
(B) amounts credited to the Fund under paragraph (2)(C).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) INVESTMENT OF AMOUNTS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- The Secretary of the Treasury shall invest in interest-bearing obligations of the United States such portion of the Fund as is not, in the judgment of the Secretary of the Treasury, required to meet current withdrawals.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) SALE OF OBLIGATIONS- Any obligation acquired by the Fund may be sold by the Secretary of the Treasury at the market price.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) CREDITS TO FUND- The interest on, and the proceeds from the sale or redemption of, any obligations held in the Fund shall be credited to, and form a part of, the Fund in accordance with section 9602 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) USE OF AMOUNTS IN FUND- Amounts in the Fund shall be made available to the Secretary of Energy, subject to the availability of appropriations, to carry out the grant program under subsection (b).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Alternative Fuels Grant Program-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Energy, acting through the Clean Cities Program of the Department of Energy, shall establish and carry out a program under which the Secretary shall provide grants to expand the availability to consumers of alternative fuels (as defined in
(2) ELIGIBILITY-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- Except as provided in subparagraph (B), any entity that is eligible to receive assistance under the Clean Cities Program shall be eligible to receive a grant under this subsection.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) EXCEPTIONS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) CERTAIN OIL COMPANIES- A large, vertically-integrated oil company shall not be eligible to receive a grant under this subsection.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) PROHIBITION OF DUAL BENEFITS- An entity that receives any other Federal funds for the construction or expansion of alternative refueling infrastructure shall not be eligible to receive a grant under this subsection for the construction or expansion of the same alternative refueling infrastructure.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) ENSURING COMPLIANCE- Not later than 30 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Energy shall promulgate regulations to ensure that, before receiving a grant under this subsection, an eligible entity meets applicable standards relating to the installation, construction, and expansion of infrastructure necessary to increase the availability to consumers of alternative fuels (as defined in
(3) MAXIMUM AMOUNT-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) GRANTS- The amount of a grant provided under this subsection shall not exceed $30,000.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) AMOUNT PER STATION- An eligible entity shall receive not more than $90,000 under this subsection for any station of the eligible entity during a fiscal year.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) USE OF FUNDS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- A grant provided under this subsection shall be used for the construction or expansion of alternative fueling infrastructure.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES- Not more than 3 percent of the amount of a grant provided under this subsection shall be used for administrative expenses.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 518. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
There are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary of Transportation $25,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2009 through 2021 to carry out the provisions of chapter 329 of title 49, United States Code.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 519. APPLICATION WITH CLEAN AIR ACT.
Nothing in this title shall be construed to conflict with the authority provided by sections 202 and 209 of the Clean Air Act (
SEC. 520. ALTERNATIVE FUEL VEHICLE ACTION PLAN.
(a) In General- The Secretary of Transportation shall, establish and implement an action plan which takes into consideration the availability and cost effectiveness of alternative fuels, which will ensure that, beginning with model year 2015, the percentage of new automobiles for sale in the United States that are alternative fuel automobiles is not less than 50 percent.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Definitions- In this section:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) ALTERNATIVE FUEL AUTOMOBILE- The term `alternative fuel automobile' means the following but not limited to--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) a new advanced lean burn technology motor vehicle (as defined in section 30B(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986) that achieves at least 125 percent of the model year 2002 city fuel economy;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) an alternative fueled automobile;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) a flexible fuel automobile;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) a new qualified fuel cell motor vehicle (as defined in section 30B(e)(4) of such Code).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(E) a new qualified hybrid motor vehicle (as defined in section 30B(d)(3) of such Code);CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(F) a plug-in hybrid automobile;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(G) an electric automobile;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(H) a hydrogen internal combustion engine automobile; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(I) any other automobile that uses substantially new technology and achieves at least 175 percent of the model year 2002 city fuel economy, as determined by the Secretary of Transportation, by regulation.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) OTHER TERMS- Any term used in this section that is defined in
SEC. 521. STUDY OF THE ADEQUACY OF TRANSPORTATION OF DOMESTICALLY-PRODUCED RENEWABLE FUEL BY RAILROADS AND OTHER MODES OF TRANSPORTATION.
(a) Study-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- The Secretary of Transportation and the Secretary of Energy shall jointly conduct a study of the adequacy of transportation of domestically-produced renewable fuels by railroad and other modes of transportation as designated by the Secretaries.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) COMPONENTS- In conducting the study under paragraph (1), the Secretaries shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) consider the adequacy of existing railroad and other transportation infrastructure, equipment, service and capacity to move the necessary quantities of domestically-produced renewable fuel within the timeframes required by section 111;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B)(i) consider the projected costs of moving the domestically-produced renewable fuel by railroad and other modes transportation; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) consider the impact of the projected costs on the marketability of the domestically-produced renewable fuel;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) identify current and potential impediments to the reliable transportation of adequate supplies of domestically-produced renewable fuel at reasonable prices, including practices currently utilized by domestic producers, shippers, and receivers of renewable fuels;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) consider whether inadequate competition exists within and between modes of transportation for the transportation of domestically-produced renewable fuel and, if such inadequate competition exists, whether such inadequate competition leads to an unfair price for the transportation of domestically-produced renewable fuel or unacceptable service for transportation of domestically-produced renewable fuel;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(E) consider whether Federal agencies have adequate legal authority to address instances of inadequate competition when inadequate competition is found to prevent domestic producers for renewable fuels from obtaining a fair and reasonable transportation price or acceptable service for the transportation of domestically-produced renewable fuels;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(F) consider whether Federal agencies have adequate legal authority to address railroad and transportation service problems that may be resulting in inadequate supplies of domestically-produced renewable fuel in any area of the United States;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(G) consider what transportation infrastructure capital expenditures may be necessary to ensure the reliable transportation of adequate supplies of domestically-produced renewable fuel at reasonable prices within the United States and which public and private entities should be responsible for making such expenditures; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(K) provide recommendations on ways to facilitate the reliable transportation of adequate supplies of domestically-produced renewable fuel at reasonable prices.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Report- Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretaries shall jointly submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, and the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives a report that describes the results of the study conducted under subsection (a).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
TITLE VI--PRICE GOUGING
SEC. 601. SHORT TITLE.
This title may be cited as the `Petroleum Consumer Price Gouging Protection Act'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 602. DEFINITIONS.
In this title:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) AFFECTED AREA- The term `affected area' means an area covered by a Presidential declaration of energy emergency.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) SUPPLIER- The term `supplier' means any person engaged in the trade or business of selling or reselling, at retail or wholesale, or distributing crude oil, gasoline, or petroleum distillates.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) PRICE GOUGING- The term `price gouging' means the charging of an unconscionably excessive price by a supplier in an affected area.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) UNCONSCIONABLY EXCESSIVE PRICE- The term `unconscionably excessive price' means an average price charged during an energy emergency declared by the President in an area and for a product subject to the declaration, that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A)(i)(I) constitutes a gross disparity from the average price at which it was offered for sale in the usual course of the supplier's business during the 30 days prior to the President's declaration of an energy emergency; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(II) grossly exceeds the prices at which the same or similar crude oil gasoline or petroleum distillate was readily obtainable by purchasers from other suppliers in the same relevant geographic market within the affected area; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) represents an exercise of unfair leverage or unconscionable means on the part of the supplier, during a period of declared energy emergency; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) is not attributable to increased wholesale or operational costs, including replacement costs, outside the control of the supplier, incurred in connection with the sale of crude oil, gasoline, or petroleum distillates; and is not attributable to local, regional, national, or international market conditions.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) COMMISSION- The term `Commission' means the Federal Trade Commission.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 603. PROHIBITION ON PRICE GOUGING DURING ENERGY EMERGENCIES.
(a) In General- During any energy emergency declared by the President under section 606 of this Act, it is unlawful for any supplier to sell, or offer to sell crude oil, gasoline or petroleum distillates subject to that declaration in, or for use in, the area to which that declaration applies at an unconscionably excessive price.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Factors Considered- In determining whether a violation of subsection (a) has occurred, there shall be taken into account, among other factors, whether--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) the price charged was a price that would reasonably exist in a competitive and freely functioning market; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) the amount of gasoline or other petroleum distillate the seller produced, distributed, or sold during the period the Proclamation was in effect increased over the average amount during the preceding 30 days.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 604. PROHIBITION ON MARKET MANIPULATION.
It is unlawful for any person, directly or indirectly, to use or employ, in connection with the purchase or sale of crude oil gasoline or petroleum distillates at wholesale, any manipulative or deceptive device or contrivance, in contravention of such rules and regulations as the Commission may prescribe as necessary or appropriate in the public interest or for the protection of United States citizens.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 605. PROHIBITION ON FALSE INFORMATION.
(a) In General- It is unlawful for any person to report information related to the wholesale price of crude oil gasoline or petroleum distillates to a Federal department or agency if--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) that person knew, or reasonably should have known, the information to be false or misleading;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) the information was required by law to be reported; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) the person intended the false or misleading data to affect data compiled by the department or agency for statistical or analytical purposes with respect to the market for crude oil, gasoline, or petroleum distillates.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 606. PRESIDENTIAL DECLARATION OF ENERGY EMERGENCY.
(a) In General- If the President finds that the health, safety, welfare, or economic well-being of the citizens of the United States is at risk because of a shortage or imminent shortage of adequate supplies of crude oil, gasoline or petroleum distillates due to a disruption in the national distribution system for crude oil, gasoline or petroleum distillates (including such a shortage related to a major disaster (as defined in section 102(2) of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (
(b) Scope and Duration- The emergency declaration shall specify--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) the period, not to exceed 30 days, for which the declaration applies;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) the circumstance or condition necessitating the declaration; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) the area or region to which it applies which may not be limited to a single State; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) the product or products to which it applies.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Extensions- The President may--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) extend a declaration under subsection (a) for a period of not more than 30 days;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) extend such a declaration more than once; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) discontinue such a declaration before its expiration.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 607. ENFORCEMENT BY THE FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION.
(a) Enforcement- This title shall be enforced by the Federal Trade Commission in the same manner, by the same means, and with the same jurisdiction as though all applicable terms of the Federal Trade Commission Act were incorporated into and made a part of this title. In enforcing section 603 of this Act, the Commission shall give priority to enforcement actions concerning companies with total United States wholesale or retail sales of crude oil, gasoline, and petroleum distillates in excess of $500,000,000 per year but shall not exclude enforcement actions against companies with total United States wholesale sales of $500,000,000 or less per year.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Violation Is Treated as Unfair or Deceptive Act or Practice- The violation of any provision of this title shall be treated as an unfair or deceptive act or practice proscribed under a rule issued under section 18(a)(1)(B) of the Federal Trade Commission Act (
(c) Commission Actions- Following the declaration of an energy emergency by the President under section 606 of this Act, the Commission shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) maintain within the Commission--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) a toll-free hotline that a consumer may call to report an incident of price gouging in the affected area; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) a program to develop and distribute to the public informational materials to assist residents of the affected area in detecting, avoiding, and reporting price gouging;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) consult with the Attorney General, the United States Attorney for the districts in which a disaster occurred (if the declaration is related to a major disaster), and State and local law enforcement officials to determine whether any supplier in the affected area is charging or has charged an unconscionably excessive price for crude oil, gasoline, or petroleum distillates in the affected area; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) conduct investigations as appropriate to determine whether any supplier in the affected area has violated section 603 of this Act, and upon such finding, take any action the Commission determines to be appropriate to remedy the violation.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 608. ENFORCEMENT BY STATE ATTORNEYS GENERAL.
(a) In General- A State, as parens patriae, may bring a civil action on behalf of its residents in an appropriate district court of the United States to enforce the provisions of section 603 of this Act, or to impose the civil penalties authorized by section 609 for violations of section 603, whenever the attorney general of the State has reason to believe that the interests of the residents of the State have been or are being threatened or adversely affected by a supplier engaged in the sale or resale, at retail or wholesale, or distribution of crude oil, gasoline or petroleum distillates in violation of section 603 of this Act.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Notice- The State shall serve written notice to the Commission of any civil action under subsection (a) prior to initiating the action. The notice shall include a copy of the complaint to be filed to initiate the civil action, except that if it is not feasible for the State to provide such prior notice, the State shall provide such notice immediately upon instituting the civil action.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Authority To Intervene- Upon receiving the notice required by subsection (b), the Commission may intervene in the civil action and, upon intervening--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) may be heard on all matters arising in such civil action; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) may file petitions for appeal of a decision in such civil action.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(d) Construction- For purposes of bringing any civil action under subsection (a), nothing in this section shall prevent the attorney general of a State from exercising the powers conferred on the Attorney General by the laws of such State to conduct investigations or to administer oaths or affirmations or to compel the attendance of witnesses or the production of documentary and other evidence.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(e) Venue; Service of Process- In a civil action brought under subsection (a)--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) the venue shall be a judicial district in which--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) the defendant operates;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) the defendant was authorized to do business; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) where the defendant in the civil action is found;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) process may be served without regard to the territorial limits of the district or of the State in which the civil action is instituted; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) a person who participated with the defendant in an alleged violation that is being litigated in the civil action may be joined in the civil action without regard to the residence of the person.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(f) Limitation on State Action While Federal Action Is Pending- If the Commission has instituted a civil action or an administrative action for violation of this title, a State attorney general, or official or agency of a State, may not bring an action under this section during the pendency of that action against any defendant named in the complaint of the Commission or the other agency for any violation of this title alleged in the Commission's civil or administrative action.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(g) No Preemption- Nothing contained in this section shall prohibit an authorized State official from proceeding in State court to enforce a civil or criminal statute of that State.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 609. PENALTIES.
(a) Civil Penalty-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- In addition to any penalty applicable under the Federal Trade Commission Act, any supplier--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) that violates section 604 or section 605 of this Act is punishable by a civil penalty of not more than $1,000,000; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) that violates section 603 of this Act is punishable by a civil penalty of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) not more than $500,000, in the case of an independent small business marketer of gasoline (within the meaning of section 324(c) of the Clean Air Act (
(ii) not more than $5,000,000 in the case of any other supplier.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) METHOD- The penalties provided by paragraph (1) shall be obtained in the same manner as civil penalties imposed under section 5 of the Federal Trade Commission Act (
(3) MULTIPLE OFFENSES; MITIGATING FACTORS- In assessing the penalty provided by subsection (a)--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) each day of a continuing violation shall be considered a separate violation; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) the court shall take into consideration, among other factors, the seriousness of the violation and the efforts of the person committing the violation to remedy the harm caused by the violation in a timely manner.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Criminal Penalty- Violation of section 603 of this Act is punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000,000, imprisonment for not more than 5 years, or both.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 610. EFFECT ON OTHER LAWS.
(a) Other Authority of the Commission- Nothing in this title shall be construed to limit or affect in any way the Commission's authority to bring enforcement actions or take any other measure under the Federal Trade Commission Act (
(b) State Law- Nothing in this title preempts any State law.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
TITLE VII--ENERGY DIPLOMACY AND SECURITY
SEC. 701. SHORT TITLE.
This title may be cited as the `Energy Diplomacy and Security Act of 2007'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 702. DEFINITIONS.
In this title:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) MAJOR ENERGY PRODUCER- The term `major energy producer' means a country that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) had crude oil, oil sands, or natural gas to liquids production of 1,000,000 barrels per day or greater average in the previous year;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) has crude oil, shale oil, or oil sands reserves of 6,000,000,000 barrels or greater, as recognized by the Department of Energy;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) had natural gas production of 30,000,000,000 cubic meters or greater in the previous year;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) has natural gas reserves of 1,250,000,000,000 cubic meters or greater, as recognized by the Department of Energy; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(E) is a direct supplier of natural gas or liquefied natural gas to the United States.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) MAJOR ENERGY CONSUMER- The term `major energy consumer' means a country that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) had an oil consumption average of 1,000,000 barrels per day or greater in the previous year;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) had an oil consumption growth rate of 8 percent or greater in the previous year;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) had a natural gas consumption of 30,000,000,000 cubic meters or greater in the previous year; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) had a natural gas consumption growth rate of 15 percent or greater in the previous year.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 703. SENSE OF CONGRESS ON ENERGY DIPLOMACY AND SECURITY.
(a) Findings- Congress makes the following findings:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) It is imperative to the national security and prosperity of the United States to have reliable, affordable, clean, sufficient, and sustainable sources of energy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) United States dependence on oil imports causes tremendous costs to the United States national security, economy, foreign policy, military, and environmental sustainability.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) Energy security is a priority for the governments of many foreign countries and increasingly plays a central role in the relations of the United States Government with foreign governments. Global reserves of oil and natural gas are concentrated in a small number of countries. Access to these oil and natural gas supplies depends on the political will of these producing states. Competition between governments for access to oil and natural gas reserves can lead to economic, political, and armed conflict. Oil exporting states have received dramatically increased revenues due to high global prices, enhancing the ability of some of these states to act in a manner threatening to global stability.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) Efforts to combat poverty and protect the environment are hindered by the continued predominance of oil and natural gas in meeting global energy needs. Development of renewable energy through sustainable practices will help lead to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and enhance international development.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) Cooperation on energy issues between the United States Government and the governments of foreign countries is critical for securing the strategic and economic interests of the United States and of partner governments. In the current global energy situation, the energy policies and activities of the governments of foreign countries can have dramatic impacts on United States energy security.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Sense of Congress- It is the sense of Congress that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) United States national security requires that the United States Government have an energy policy that pursues the strategic goal of achieving energy security through access to clean, affordable, sufficient, reliable, and sustainable sources of energy;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) achieving energy security is a priority for United States foreign policy and requires continued and enhanced engagement with foreign governments and entities in a variety of areas, including activities relating to the promotion of alternative and renewable fuels, trade and investment in oil, coal, and natural gas, energy efficiency, climate and environmental protection, data transparency, advanced scientific research, public-private partnerships, and energy activities in international development;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) the President should ensure that the international energy activities of the United States Government are given clear focus to support the national security needs of the United States, and to this end, there should be established a mechanism to coordinate the implementation of United States international energy policy among the Federal agencies engaged in relevant agreements and activities; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) the Secretary of State should ensure that energy security is integrated into the core mission of the Department of State, and to this end, there should be established within the Office of the Secretary of State a Coordinator for International Energy Affairs with responsibility for--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) developing United States international energy policy in coordination with the Department of Energy and other relevant Federal agencies;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) working with appropriate United States Government officials to develop and update analyses of the national security implications of global energy developments;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) incorporating energy security priorities into the activities of the Department;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) coordinating activities with relevant Federal agencies; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(E) coordinating energy security and other relevant functions currently undertaken by offices within the Bureau of Economic, Business, and Agricultural Affairs, the Bureau of Democracy and Global Affairs, and other offices within the Department of State.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) the Department of Energy should be designated as the lead United States Government agency in charge of formulating and coordinating the national energy security policy of the United States, and in furtherance of these goals, there should be established within the Department of Energy an Assistant Secretary of Energy for Energy Security whose responsibilities should include--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) directing the development of the national energy security strategy of the United States;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) coordinating the national energy security policy of the United States with the Department of Defense, the Department of State, and the National Security Council, as appropriate, to address the impact of, and integrate national security and foreign policy on, the national energy security policy of the United States;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) monitoring international and domestic energy developments to gauge their impact on the national energy security policy of the United States and implementing changes in such policy as necessary to maintain the national security and energy security of the United States;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) identifying foreign sources of energy critical to the national energy security of the United States and developing strategies in conjunction with the Department of State for ensuring United States access to critical foreign energy resources;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(E) developing strategies for reducing United States dependence on foreign sources of energy, including demand reduction, efficiency improvement, and development of alternative and new sources of domestic energy; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(F) developing strategies in conjunction with the Department of State for working with major international producers and consumers, including China, Russia, the European Union, and Africa, to minimize politicization of global energy resources while ensuring access through global energy markets.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 704. STRATEGIC ENERGY PARTNERSHIPS.
(a) Findings- Congress makes the following findings:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) United States Government partnership with foreign governments and entities, including partnership with the private sector, for securing reliable and sustainable energy is imperative to ensuring United States security and economic interests, promoting international peace and security, expanding international development, supporting democratic reform, fostering economic growth, and safeguarding the environment.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) Democracy and freedom should be promoted globally by partnership with foreign governments, including in particular governments of emerging democracies such as those of Ukraine and Georgia, in their efforts to reduce their dependency on oil and natural gas imports.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) The United States Government and the governments of foreign countries have common needs for adequate, reliable, affordable, clean, and sustainable energy in order to ensure national security, economic growth, and high standards of living in their countries. Cooperation by the United States Government with foreign governments on meeting energy security needs is mutually beneficial. United States Government partnership with foreign governments should include cooperation with major energy consuming countries, major energy producing countries, and other governments seeking to advance global energy security through reliable and sustainable means.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) The United States Government participates in hundreds of bilateral and multilateral energy agreements and activities with foreign governments and entities. These agreements and activities should reflect the strategic need for energy security.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Statement of Policy- It is the policy of the United States--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) to advance global energy security through cooperation with foreign governments and entities;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) to promote reliable, diverse, and sustainable sources of all types of energy;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) to increase global availability of renewable and clean sources of energy;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) to decrease global dependence on oil and natural gas energy sources; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) to engage in energy cooperation to strengthen strategic partnerships that advance peace, security, and democratic prosperity.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Authority- The Secretary of State, in coordination with the Secretary of Energy, should immediately seek to establish and expand strategic energy partnerships with the governments of major energy producers and major energy consumers, and with governments of other countries (but excluding any countries that are ineligible to receive United States economic or military assistance).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(d) Purposes- The purposes of the strategic energy partnerships established pursuant to subsection (c) are--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) to strengthen global relationships to promote international peace and security through fostering cooperation in the energy sector on a mutually beneficial basis in accordance with respective national energy policies;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) to promote the policy set forth in subsection (b), including activities to advance--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) the mutual understanding of each country's energy needs, priorities, and policies, including interparliamentary understanding;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) measures to respond to acute energy supply disruptions, particularly in regard to petroleum and natural gas resources;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) long-term reliability and sustainability in energy supply;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) the safeguarding and safe handling of nuclear fuel;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(E) human and environmental protection;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(F) renewable energy production;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(G) access to reliable and affordable energy for underdeveloped areas, in particular energy access for the poor;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(H) appropriate commercial cooperation;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(I) information reliability and transparency; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(J) research and training collaboration;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) to advance the national security priority of developing sustainable and clean energy sources, including through research and development related to, and deployment of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) renewable electrical energy sources, including biomass, wind, and solar;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) renewable transportation fuels, including biofuels;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) clean coal technologies;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) carbon sequestration, including in conjunction with power generation, agriculture, and forestry; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(E) energy and fuel efficiency, including hybrids and plug-in hybrids, flexible fuel, advanced composites, hydrogen, and other transportation technologies; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) to provide strategic focus for current and future United States Government activities in energy cooperation to meet the global need for energy security.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(e) Determination of Agendas- In general, the specific agenda with respect to a particular strategic energy partnership, and the Federal agencies designated to implement related activities, shall be determined by the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Energy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(f) Use of Current Agreements To Establish Partnerships- Some or all of the purposes of the strategic energy partnerships established under subsection (c) may be pursued through existing bilateral or multilateral agreements and activities. Such agreements and activities shall be subject to the reporting requirements in subsection (g).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(g) Reports Required-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) INITIAL PROGRESS REPORT- Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees a report on progress made in developing the strategic energy partnerships authorized under this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORTS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter for 20 years, the Secretary of State shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees an annual report on agreements entered into and activities undertaken pursuant to this section, including international environment activities.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) CONTENT- Each report submitted under this paragraph shall include details on--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) agreements and activities pursued by the United States Government with foreign governments and entities, the implementation plans for such agreements and progress measurement benchmarks, United States Government resources used in pursuit of such agreements and activities, and legislative changes recommended for improved partnership; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) polices and actions in the energy sector of partnership countries pertinent to United States economic, security, and environmental interests.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 705. INTERNATIONAL ENERGY CRISIS RESPONSE MECHANISMS.
(a) Findings- Congress makes the following findings:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) Cooperation between the United States Government and governments of other countries during energy crises promotes the national security of the United States.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) The participation of the United States in the International Energy Program established under the Agreement on an International Energy Program, done at Paris November 18, 1974 (27 UST 1685), including in the coordination of national strategic petroleum reserves, is a national security asset that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) protects the consumers and the economy of the United States in the event of a major disruption in petroleum supply;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) maximizes the effectiveness of the United States strategic petroleum reserve through cooperation in accessing global reserves of various petroleum products;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) provides market reassurance in countries that are members of the International Energy Program; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) strengthens United States Government relationships with members of the International Energy Program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) The International Energy Agency projects that the largest growth in demand for petroleum products, other than demand from the United States, will come from China and India, which are not members of the International Energy Program. The Governments of China and India vigorously pursue access to global oil reserves and are attempting to develop national petroleum reserves. Participation of the Governments of China and India in an international petroleum reserve mechanism would promote global energy security, but such participation should be conditional on the Governments of China and India abiding by customary petroleum reserve management practices.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) In the Western Hemisphere, only the United States and Canada are members of the International Energy Program. The vulnerability of most Western Hemisphere countries to supply disruptions from political, natural, or terrorism causes may introduce instability in the hemisphere and can be a source of conflict, despite the existence of major oil reserves in the hemisphere.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) Countries that are not members of the International Energy Program and are unable to maintain their own national strategic reserves are vulnerable to petroleum supply disruption. Disruption in petroleum supply and spikes in petroleum costs could devastate the economies of developing countries and could cause internal or interstate conflict.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(6) The involvement of the United States Government in the extension of international mechanisms to coordinate strategic petroleum reserves and the extension of other emergency preparedness measures should strengthen the current International Energy Program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Energy Crisis Response Mechanisms With India and China-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) AUTHORITY- The Secretary of State, in coordination with the Secretary of Energy, should immediately seek to establish a petroleum crisis response mechanism or mechanisms with the Governments of China and India.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) SCOPE- The mechanism or mechanisms established under paragraph (1) should include--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) technical assistance in the development and management of national strategic petroleum reserves;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) agreements for coordinating drawdowns of strategic petroleum reserves with the United States, conditional upon reserve holdings and management conditions established by the Secretary of Energy;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) emergency demand restraint measures;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) fuel switching preparedness and alternative fuel production capacity; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(E) ongoing demand intensity reduction programs.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) USE OF EXISTING AGREEMENTS TO ESTABLISH MECHANISM- The Secretary may, after consultation with Congress and in accordance with existing international agreements, including the International Energy Program, include China and India in a petroleum crisis response mechanism through existing or new agreements.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Energy Crisis Response Mechanism for the Western Hemisphere-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) AUTHORITY- The Secretary of State, in coordination with the Secretary of Energy, should immediately seek to establish a Western Hemisphere energy crisis response mechanism.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) SCOPE- The mechanism established under paragraph (1) should include--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) an information sharing and coordinating mechanism in case of energy supply emergencies;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) technical assistance in the development and management of national strategic petroleum reserves within countries of the Western Hemisphere;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) technical assistance in developing national programs to meet the requirements of membership in a future international energy application procedure as described in subsection (d);CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) emergency demand restraint measures;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(E) energy switching preparedness and alternative energy production capacity; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(F) ongoing demand intensity reduction programs.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) MEMBERSHIP- The Secretary should seek to include in the Western Hemisphere energy crisis response mechanism membership for each major energy producer and major energy consumer in the Western Hemisphere and other members of the Hemisphere Energy Cooperation Forum authorized under section 706.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(d) International Energy Program Application Procedure-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) AUTHORITY- The President should place on the agenda for discussion at the Governing Board of the International Energy Agency, as soon as practicable, the merits of establishing an international energy program application procedure.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) PURPOSE- The purpose of such procedure is to allow countries that are not members of the International Energy Program to apply to the Governing Board of the International Energy Agency for allocation of petroleum reserve stocks in times of emergency on a grant or loan basis. Such countries should also receive technical assistance for, and be subject to, conditions requiring development and management of national programs for energy emergency preparedness, including demand restraint, fuel switching preparedness, and development of alternative fuels production capacity.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(e) Reports Required-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) PETROLEUM RESERVES- Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Energy shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees a report that evaluates the options for adapting the United States national strategic petroleum reserve and the international petroleum reserve coordinating mechanism in order to carry out this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) CRISIS RESPONSE MECHANISMS- Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State, in coordination with the Secretary of Energy, shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees a report on the status of the establishment of the international petroleum crisis response mechanisms described in subsections (b) and (c). The report shall include recommendations of the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Energy for any legislation necessary to establish or carry out such mechanisms.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) EMERGENCY APPLICATION PROCEDURE- Not later than 60 days after a discussion by the Governing Board of the International Energy Agency of the application procedure described under subsection (d), the President should submit to Congress a report that describes--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) the actions the United States Government has taken pursuant to such subsection; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) a summary of the debate on the matter before the Governing Board of the International Energy Agency, including any decision that has been reached by the Governing Board with respect to the matter.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 706. HEMISPHERE ENERGY COOPERATION FORUM.
(a) Findings- Congress makes the following findings:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) The engagement of the United States Government with governments of countries in the Western Hemisphere is a strategic priority for reducing the potential for tension over energy resources, maintaining and expanding reliable energy supplies, expanding use of renewable energy, and reducing the detrimental effects of energy import dependence within the hemisphere. Current energy dialogues should be expanded and refocused as needed to meet this challenge.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) Countries of the Western Hemisphere can most effectively meet their common needs for energy security and sustainability through partnership and cooperation. Cooperation between governments on energy issues will enhance bilateral relationships among countries of the hemisphere. The Western Hemisphere is rich in natural resources, including biomass, oil, natural gas, coal, and has significant opportunity for production of renewable hydro, solar, wind, and other energies. Countries of the Western Hemisphere can provide convenient and reliable markets for trade in energy goods and services.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) Development of sustainable energy alternatives in the countries of the Western Hemisphere can improve energy security, balance of trade, and environmental quality and provide markets for energy technology and agricultural products. Brazil and the United States have led the world in the production of ethanol, and deeper cooperation on biofuels with other countries of the hemisphere would extend economic and security benefits.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) Private sector partnership and investment in all sources of energy is critical to providing energy security in the Western Hemisphere.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Hemisphere Energy Cooperation Forum-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) ESTABLISHMENT- The Secretary of State, in coordination with the Secretary of Energy, should immediately seek to establish a regional-based ministerial forum to be known as the Hemisphere Energy Cooperation Forum.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) PURPOSES- The Hemisphere Energy Cooperation Forum should seek--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) to strengthen relationships between the United States and other countries of the Western Hemisphere through cooperation on energy issues;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) to enhance cooperation between major energy producers and major energy consumers in the Western Hemisphere, particularly among the governments of Brazil, Canada, Mexico, the United States, and Venezuela;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) to ensure that energy contributes to the economic, social, and environmental enhancement of the countries of the Western Hemisphere;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) to provide an opportunity for open dialogue and joint commitments between member governments and with private industry; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(E) to provide participating countries the flexibility necessary to cooperatively address broad challenges posed to the energy supply of the Western Hemisphere that are practical in policy terms and politically acceptable.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) ACTIVITIES- The Hemisphere Energy Cooperation Forum should implement the following activities:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) An Energy Crisis Initiative that will establish measures to respond to temporary energy supply disruptions, including through--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) strengthening sea-lane and infrastructure security;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) implementing a real-time emergency information sharing system;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) encouraging members to have emergency mechanisms and contingency plans in place; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iv) establishing a Western Hemisphere energy crisis response mechanism as authorized under section 705(c).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) An Energy Sustainability Initiative to facilitate long-term supply security through fostering reliable supply sources of fuels, including development, deployment, and commercialization of technologies for sustainable renewable fuels within the region, including activities that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) promote production and trade in sustainable energy, including energy from biomass;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) facilitate investment, trade, and technology cooperation in energy infrastructure, petroleum products, natural gas (including liquefied natural gas), energy efficiency (including automotive efficiency), clean fossil energy, renewable energy, and carbon sequestration;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) promote regional infrastructure and market integration;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iv) develop effective and stable regulatory frameworks;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(v) develop renewable fuels standards and renewable portfolio standards;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(vi) establish educational training and exchange programs between member countries; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(vii) identify and remove barriers to trade in technology, services, and commodities.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) An Energy for Development Initiative to promote energy access for underdeveloped areas through energy policy and infrastructure development, including activities that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) increase access to energy services for the poor;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) improve energy sector market conditions;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) promote rural development though biomass energy production and use;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iv) increase transparency of, and participation in, energy infrastructure projects;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(v) promote development and deployment of technology for clean and sustainable energy development, including biofuel and clean coal technologies; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(vi) facilitate use of carbon sequestration methods in agriculture and forestry and linking greenhouse gas emissions reduction programs to international carbon markets.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Hemisphere Energy Industry Group-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) AUTHORITY- The Secretary of State, in coordination with the Secretary of Commerce and the Secretary of Energy, should approach the governments of other countries in the Western Hemisphere to seek cooperation in establishing a Hemisphere Energy Industry Group, to be coordinated by the United States Government, involving industry representatives and government representatives from the Western Hemisphere.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) PURPOSE- The purpose of the forum should be to increase public-private partnerships, foster private investment, and enable countries of the Western Hemisphere to devise energy agendas compatible with industry capacity and cognizant of industry goals.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) TOPICS OF DIALOGUES- Topics for the forum should include--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) promotion of a secure investment climate;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) development and deployment of biofuels and other alternative fuels and clean electrical production facilities, including clean coal and carbon sequestration;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) development and deployment of energy efficient technologies and practices, including in the industrial, residential, and transportation sectors;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) investment in oil and natural gas production and distribution;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(E) transparency of energy production and reserves data;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(F) research promotion; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(G) training and education exchange programs.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(d) Annual Report- The Secretary of State, in coordination with the Secretary of Energy, shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees an annual report on the implementation of this section, including the strategy and benchmarks for measurement of progress developed under this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 707. NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL REORGANIZATION.
Section 101(a) of the National Security Act of 1947 (
(1) by redesignating paragraphs (5), (6), and (7) as paragraphs (6), (7), and (8), respectively; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) by inserting after paragraph (4) the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(5) the Secretary of Energy;'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 708. ANNUAL NATIONAL ENERGY SECURITY STRATEGY REPORT.
(a) Reports-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- Subject to paragraph (2), on the date on which the President submits to Congress the budget for the following fiscal year under
(2) NEW PRESIDENTS- In addition to the reports required under paragraph (1), the President shall submit a comprehensive report on the national energy security of the United States by not later than 150 days after the date on which the President assumes the office of President after a presidential election.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Contents- Each report under this section shall describe the national energy security strategy of the United States, including a comprehensive description of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) the worldwide interests, goals, and objectives of the United States that are vital to the national energy security of the United States;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) the foreign policy, worldwide commitments, and national defense capabilities of the United States necessary--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) to deter political manipulation of world energy resources; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) to implement the national energy security strategy of the United States;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) the proposed short-term and long-term uses of the political, economic, military, and other authorities of the United States--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) to protect or promote energy security; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) to achieve the goals and objectives described in paragraph (1);CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) the adequacy of the capabilities of the United States to protect the national energy security of the United States, including an evaluation of the balance among the capabilities of all elements of the national authority of the United States to support the implementation of the national energy security strategy; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) such other information as the President determines to be necessary to inform Congress on matters relating to the national energy security of the United States.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Classified and Unclassified Form- Each national energy security strategy report shall be submitted to Congress in--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) a classified form; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) an unclassified form.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 709. APPROPRIATE CONGRESSIONAL COMMITTEES DEFINED.
In this title, the term `appropriate congressional committees' means the Committee on Foreign Relations and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate and the Committee on Foreign Affairs and the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 710. NO OIL PRODUCING AND EXPORTING CARTELS ACT OF 2007.
(a) Short Title- This section may be cited as the `No Oil Producing and Exporting Cartels Act of 2007' or `NOPEC'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Sherman Act- The Sherman Act (
`SEC. 7A. OIL PRODUCING CARTELS.
`(a) In General- It shall be illegal and a violation of this Act for any foreign state, or any instrumentality or agent of any foreign state, to act collectively or in combination with any other foreign state, any instrumentality or agent of any other foreign state, or any other person, whether by cartel or any other association or form of cooperation or joint action--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) to limit the production or distribution of oil, natural gas, or any other petroleum product;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) to set or maintain the price of oil, natural gas, or any petroleum product; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(3) to otherwise take any action in restraint of trade for oil, natural gas, or any petroleum product;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
when such action, combination, or collective action has a direct, substantial, and reasonably foreseeable effect on the market, supply, price, or distribution of oil, natural gas, or other petroleum product in the United States.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(b) Sovereign Immunity- A foreign state engaged in conduct in violation of subsection (a) shall not be immune under the doctrine of sovereign immunity from the jurisdiction or judgments of the courts of the United States in any action brought to enforce this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(c) Inapplicability of Act of State Doctrine- No court of the United States shall decline, based on the act of state doctrine, to make a determination on the merits in an action brought under this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(d) Enforcement- The Attorney General of the United States may bring an action to enforce this section in any district court of the United States as provided under the antitrust laws.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Sovereign Immunity-
(1) in paragraph (6), by striking `or' after the semicolon;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) in paragraph (7), by striking the period and inserting `; or'; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) by adding at the end the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(8) in which the action is brought under section 7A of the Sherman Act.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
SEC. 711. CONVENTION ON SUPPLEMENTARY COMPENSATION FOR NUCLEAR DAMAGE CONTINGENT COST ALLOCATION.
(a) Findings and Purpose-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) FINDINGS- Congress finds that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) section 170 of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 (
(i) provides a predictable legal framework necessary for nuclear projects; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) ensures prompt and equitable compensation in the event of a nuclear incident in the United States;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) section 170 of that Act, in effect, provides operators of nuclear powerplants with insurance for damage arising out of a nuclear incident and funds the insurance primarily through the assessment of a retrospective premium from each operator after the occurrence of a nuclear incident;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) the Convention on Supplementary Compensation for Nuclear Damage, done at Vienna on September 12, 1997, will establish a global system--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) to provide a predictable legal framework necessary for nuclear energy projects; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) to ensure prompt and equitable compensation in the event of a nuclear incident;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(D) the Convention benefits United States nuclear suppliers that face potentially unlimited liability for a nuclear incidents outside the coverage of section 170 of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 (
(E) the Convention also benefits United States nuclear facility operators that may be publicly liable for a Price-Anderson incident by providing an additional early source for a Price-Anderson incident by providing an additional early source of funds to compensate damage arising out of the Price-Anderson incident;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(F) the combined operation of the Convention, section 170 of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 (
(G) the cost of those benefits is the obligation of the United States to contribute to the supplementary compensation fund established by the Convention;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(H) any such contribution should be funded in a manner that neither upsets settled expectations based on the liability regime established under section 170 of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 (
(I) with respect to a Price-Anderson incident, funds already available under section 170 of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 (
(J) with respect to a nuclear incident outside the United States not covered by section 170 of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 (
(2) PURPOSE- The purpose of this section is to allocate the contingent costs associated with participation by the United States in the international nuclear liability compensation system established by the Convention on Supplementary Compensation for Nuclear Damage, done at Vienna on September 12, 1997--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) with respect to a Price-Anderson incident, by using funds made available under section 170 of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 (
(B) with respect to a covered incident outside the United States that is not a Price-Anderson incident, by allocating the contingent costs equitably, on the basis of risk, among the class of nuclear suppliers relieved by the Convention from the risk of potential liability resulting from any covered incident outside the United States.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Definitions- In this section:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) COMMISSION- The term `Commission' means the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) CONTINGENT COST- The term `contingent cost' means the cost to the United States in the event of a covered incident the amount of which is equal to the amount of funds the United States is obligated to make available under paragraph 1(b) of Article III of the Convention.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) CONVENTION- The term `Convention' means the Convention on Supplementary Compensation for Nuclear Damage, done at Vienna on September 12, 1997.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(4) COVERED INCIDENT- The term `covered incident' means a nuclear incident the occurrence of which results in a request for funds pursuant to Article VII of the Convention.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(5) COVERED INSTALLATION- The term `covered installation' means a nuclear installation at which the occurrence of a nuclear incident could result in a request for funds under Article VII of the Convention.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(6) COVERED PERSON-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- The term `covered person' means--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) a United States person; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) an individual or entity (including an agency or instrumentality of a foreign country) that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(I) is located in the United States; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(II) carries out an activity in the United States.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) EXCLUSIONS- The term `covered person' does not include--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) the United States; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) any agency or instrumentality of the United States.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(7) NUCLEAR SUPPLIER- The term `nuclear supplier' means a covered person (or a successor in interest of a covered person) that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) supplies facilities, equipment, fuel, services, or technology pertaining to the design, construction, operation, or decommissioning of a covered installation; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) transports nuclear materials that could result in a covered incident.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(8) PRICE-ANDERSON INCIDENT- The term `Price-Anderson incident' means a covered incident for which section 170 of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 (
(9) SECRETARY- The term `Secretary' means the Secretary of Energy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(10) UNITED STATES-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- The term `United States' has the meaning given the term in section 11 of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 (
(B) INCLUSIONS- The term `United States' includes--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) any other territory or possession of the United States;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) the Canal Zone; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iv) the waters of the United States territorial sea under Presidential Proclamation Number 5928, dated December 27, 1988 (
(11) UNITED STATES PERSON- The term `United States person' means--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) any individual who is a resident, national, or citizen of the United States (other than an individual residing outside of the United States and employed by a person who is not a United States person); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) any corporation, partnership, association, joint stock company, business trust, unincorporated organization, or sole proprietorship that is organized under the laws of the United States.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(c) Use of Price-Anderson Funds-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- Funds made available under section 170 of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 (
(2) EFFECT- The use of funds pursuant to paragraph (1) shall not reduce the limitation on public liability established under section 170 e. of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 (
(d) Effect on Amount of Public Liability-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- Funds made available to the United States under Article VII of the Convention with respect to a Price-Anderson incident shall be used to satisfy public liability resulting from the Price-Anderson incident.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) AMOUNT- The amount of public liability allowable under section 170 of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 (
(A) the amount of funds made available for the Price-Anderson incident under Article VII of the Convention; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) the amount of funds used under subsection (c) to cover the contingent cost resulting from the Price-Anderson incident.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(e) Retrospective Risk Pooling Program-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- Except as provided in paragraph (2), each nuclear supplier shall participate in a retrospective risk pooling program in accordance with this section to cover the contingent cost resulting from a covered incident outside the United States that is not a Price-Anderson incident.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) DEFERRED PAYMENT-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- The obligation of a nuclear supplier to participate in the retrospective risk pooling program shall be deferred until the United States is called on to provide funds pursuant to Article VII of the Convention with respect to a covered incident that is not a Price-Anderson incident.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) AMOUNT OF DEFERRED PAYMENT- The amount of a deferred payment of a nuclear supplier under subparagraph (A) shall be based on the risk-informed assessment formula determined under subparagraph (C).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) RISK-INFORMED ASSESSMENT FORMULA-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) IN GENERAL- Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment of this Act, and every 5 years thereafter, the Secretary shall, by regulation, determine the risk-informed assessment formula for the allocation among nuclear suppliers of the contingent cost resulting from a covered incident that is not a Price-Anderson incident, taking into account risk factors such as--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(I) the nature and intended purpose of the goods and services supplied by each nuclear supplier to each covered installation outside the United States;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(II) the quantity of the goods and services supplied by each nuclear supplier to each covered installation outside the United States;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(III) the hazards associated with the supplied goods and services if the goods and services fail to achieve the intended purposes;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(IV) the hazards associated with the covered installation outside the United States to which the goods and services are supplied;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(V) the legal, regulatory, and financial infrastructure associated with the covered installation outside the United States to which the goods and services are supplied; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(VI) the hazards associated with particular forms of transportation.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) FACTORS FOR CONSIDERATION- In determining the formula, the Secretary may--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(I) exclude--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(aa) goods and services with negligible risk;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(bb) classes of goods and services not intended specifically for use in a nuclear installation;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(cc) a nuclear supplier with a de minimis share of the contingent cost; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(dd) a nuclear supplier no longer in existence for which there is no identifiable successor; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(II) establish the period on which the risk assessment is based.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(iii) APPLICATION- In applying the formula, the Secretary shall not consider any covered installation or transportation for which funds would be available under section 170 of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 (
(iv) REPORT- Not later than 5 years after the date of enactment of this Act and every 5 years thereafter, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives a report on whether there is a need for continuation or amendment of this section, taking into account the effects of the implementation of the Convention on the United States nuclear industry and suppliers.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(f) Reporting-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) COLLECTION OF INFORMATION-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- The Secretary may collect information necessary for developing and implementing the formula for calculating the deferred payment of a nuclear supplier under subsection (e)(2).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) PROVISION OF INFORMATION- Each nuclear supplier and other appropriate persons shall make available to the Secretary such information, reports, records, documents, and other data as the Secretary determines, by regulation, to be necessary or appropriate to develop and implement the formula under subsection (e)(2)(C).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) PRIVATE INSURANCE- The Secretary shall make available to nuclear suppliers, and insurers of nuclear suppliers, information to support the voluntary establishment and maintenance of private insurance against any risk for which nuclear suppliers may be required to pay deferred payments under this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(g) Effect on Liability- Nothing in any other law (including regulations) limits liability for a covered incident to an amount equal to less than the amount prescribed in paragraph 1(a) of Article IV of the Convention, unless the law--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) specifically refers to this section; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) explicitly repeals, alters, amends, modifies, impairs, displaces, or supersedes the effect of this subsection.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(h) Payments to and by the United States-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) ACTION BY NUCLEAR SUPPLIERS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) NOTIFICATION- In the case of a request for funds under Article VII of the Convention resulting from a covered incident that is not a Price-Anderson incident, the Secretary shall notify each nuclear supplier of the amount of the deferred payment required to be made by the nuclear supplier.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) PAYMENTS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) IN GENERAL- Except as provided in clause (ii), not later than 60 days after receipt of a notification under subparagraph (A), a nuclear supplier shall pay to the general fund of the Treasury the deferred payment of the nuclear supplier required under subparagraph (A).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) ANNUAL PAYMENTS- A nuclear supplier may elect to prorate payment of the deferred payment required under subparagraph (A) in 5 equal annual payments (including interest on the unpaid balance at the prime rate prevailing at the time the first payment is due).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) VOUCHERS- A nuclear supplier shall submit payment certification vouchers to the Secretary of the Treasury in accordance with
(2) USE OF FUNDS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- Amounts paid into the Treasury under paragraph (1) shall be available to the Secretary of the Treasury, without further appropriation and without fiscal year limitation, for the purpose of making the contributions of public funds required to be made by the United States under the Convention.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) ACTION BY SECRETARY OF TREASURY- The Secretary of the Treasury shall pay the contribution required under the Convention to the court of competent jurisdiction under Article XIII of the Convention with respect to the applicable covered incident.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) FAILURE TO PAY- If a nuclear supplier fails to make a payment required under this subsection, the Secretary may take appropriate action to recover from the nuclear supplier--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) the amount of the payment due from the nuclear supplier;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) any applicable interest on the payment; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) a penalty of not more than twice the amount of the deferred payment due from the nuclear supplier.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) Limitation on Judicial Review; Cause of Action-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) LIMITATION ON JUDICIAL REVIEW-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- In any civil action arising under the Convention over which Article XIII of the Convention grants jurisdiction to the courts of the United States, any appeal or review by writ of mandamus or otherwise with respect to a nuclear incident that is not a Price-Anderson incident shall be in accordance with chapter 83 of title 28, United States Code, except that the appeal or review shall occur in the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) SUPREME COURT JURISDICTION- Nothing in this paragraph affects the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court of the United States under chapter 81 of title 28, United States Code.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) CAUSE OF ACTION-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) IN GENERAL- Subject to subparagraph (B), in any civil action arising under the Convention over which Article XIII of the Convention grants jurisdiction to the courts of the United States, in addition to any other cause of action that may exist, an individual or entity shall have a cause of action against the operator to recover for nuclear damage suffered by the individual or entity.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) REQUIREMENT- Subparagraph (A) shall apply only if the individual or entity seeks a remedy for nuclear damage (as defined in Article I of the Convention) that was caused by a nuclear incident (as defined in Article I of the Convention) that is not a Price-Anderson incident.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) EFFECT OF PARAGRAPH- Nothing in this paragraph limits, modifies, extinguishes, or otherwise affects any cause of action that would have existed in the absence of enactment of this paragraph.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(j) Right of Recourse- This section does not provide to an operator of a covered installation any right of recourse under the Convention.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(k) Protection of Sensitive United States Information- Nothing in the Convention or this section requires the disclosure of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) any data that, at any time, was Restricted Data (as defined in section 11 of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 (
(2) information relating to intelligence sources or methods protected by section 102A(i) of the National Security Act of 1947 (
(3) national security information classified under Executive Order 12958 (
(l) Regulations-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- The Secretary or the Commission, as appropriate, may prescribe regulations to carry out section 170 of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 (
(2) REQUIREMENT- Rules prescribed under this subsection shall ensure, to the maximum extent practicable, that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) the implementation of section 170 of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 (
(B) the financial and operational burden on a Commission licensee in complying with section 170 of that Act is not greater as a result of the enactment of this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(3) APPLICABILITY OF PROVISION-
(4) EFFECT OF SUBSECTION- The authority provided under this subsection is in addition to, and does not impair or otherwise affect, any other authority of the Secretary or the Commission to prescribe regulations.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(m) Effective Date- This section takes effect on the date of enactment of this Act.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
TITLE VIII--MISCELLANEOUS
SEC. 801. STUDY OF THE EFFECT OF PRIVATE WIRE LAWS ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF COMBINED HEAT AND POWER FACILITIES.
(a) Study-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(1) IN GENERAL- The Secretary, in consultation with the States and other appropriate entities, shall conduct a study of the laws (including regulations) affecting the siting of privately owned electric distribution wires on and across public rights-of-way.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(2) REQUIREMENTS- The study under paragraph (1) shall include--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(A) an evaluation of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) the purposes of the laws; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) the effect the laws have on the development of combined heat and power facilities;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(B) a determination of whether a change in the laws would have any operating, reliability, cost, or other impacts on electric utilities and the customers of the electric utilities; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(C) an assessment of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(i) whether privately owned electric distribution wires would result in duplicative facilities; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(ii) whether duplicative facilities are necessary or desirable.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Report- Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report that describes the results of the study conducted under subsection (a).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
TITLE IX--RENEWABLE PORTFOLIO STANDARD
SEC. 901. RENEWABLE PORTFOLIO STANDARD.
(a) In General- Title VI of the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 (
`SEC. 610. FEDERAL RENEWABLE PORTFOLIO STANDARD.
`(a) Renewable Energy Requirement-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) IN GENERAL- Each retail electric supplier that sells electricity to electric consumers shall obtain a percentage of the base amount of electricity it sells to electric consumers in any calendar year from new renewable energy or existing renewable energy. The percentage obtained in a calendar year shall not be less than the amount specified in the following table:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
---------------------------------------------------------CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
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`Calendar years Minimum annual percentage CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
2010 through 2012 3.75 CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
2013 through 2016 7.50 CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
2017 through 2019 11.25 CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
2020 through 2030 15.0 CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
---------------------------------------------------------CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) MEANS OF COMPLIANCE- An electric utility shall meet the requirements of paragraph (1) by--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) submitting to the Secretary renewable energy credits issued under subsection (b);CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) making alternative compliance payments to the Secretary at the rate of 2 cents per kilowatt hour (as adjusted for inflation under subsection (g)); orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) a combination of activities described in subparagraphs (A) and (B).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(3) SPECIAL RULE- Nothing in this section authorizes or requires the Tennessee Valley Authority to make any capital expenditure on new generating capacity, except to the extent that budget authority for the expenditure is provided in advance in an appropriations Act.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(b) Federal Renewable Energy Credit Trading Program-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) IN GENERAL- Not later than July 1, 2009, the Secretary shall establish a Federal renewable energy credit trading program under which electric utilities shall submit to the Secretary renewable energy credits to certify the compliance of the electric utilities with respect to obligations under subsection (a)(1).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) ADMINISTRATION- As part of the program, the Secretary shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) issue tradeable renewable energy credits to generators of electric energy from new renewable energy;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) issue nontradeable renewable energy credits to generators of electric energy from existing renewable energy;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) issue renewable energy credits to electric utilities associated with State renewable portfolio standard compliance mechanisms pursuant to subsection (h);CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(D) ensure that a kilowatt hour, including the associated renewable energy credit, shall be used only once for purposes of compliance with this Act;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(E) allow double credits for generation from facilities on Indian land, and triple credits for generation from small renewable distributed generators (meaning those no larger than 1 megawatt); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(F) ensure that, with respect to a purchaser that, as of the date of enactment of this section, has a purchase agreement from a renewable energy facility placed in service before that date, the credit associated with the generation of renewable energy under the contract is issued to the purchaser of the electric energy to the extent that the contract does not already provide for the allocation of the Federal credit.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(3) DURATION- A credit described in subparagraph (A), (B), or (C) of paragraph (2) may only be used for compliance with this section during the 3-year period beginning on the date of issuance of the credit.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(4) TRANSFERS- An electric utility that holds credits in excess of the quantity of credits needed to comply with subsection (a) may transfer the credits to another electric utility in the same utility holding company system.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(5) DELEGATION OF MARKET FUNCTION- The Secretary may delegate to an appropriate market-making entity the administration of a national tradeable renewable energy credit market for purposes of creating a transparent national market for the sale or trade of renewable energy credits.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(c) Enforcement-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) CIVIL PENALTIES- Any electric utility that fails to meet the compliance requirements of subsection (a) shall be subject to a civil penalty.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) AMOUNT OF PENALTY- The amount of the civil penalty shall be determined by multiplying the number of kilowatt-hours of electric energy sold to electric consumers in violation of subsection (a) by the greater of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) the value of the alternative compliance payment, as adjusted to reflect changes for the 12-month period ending the preceding November 30 in the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics of the Department of Labor; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) 200 percent of the average market value of renewable energy credits during the year in which the violation occurred.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(3) MITIGATION OR WAIVER-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) PENALTY-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) IN GENERAL- The Secretary may mitigate or waive a civil penalty under this subsection if the electric utility is unable to comply with subsection (a) for a reason outside of the reasonable control of the utility.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) AMOUNT- The Secretary shall reduce the amount of any penalty determined under paragraph (2) by the amount paid by the electric utility to a State for failure to comply with the requirement of a State renewable energy program if the State requirement is greater than the applicable requirement of subsection (a).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) REQUIREMENT- The Secretary may waive the requirements of subsection (a) for a period of up to 5 years with respect to an electric utility if the Secretary determines that the electric utility cannot meet the requirements because of a hurricane, tornado, fire, flood, earthquake, ice storm, or other natural disaster or act of God beyond the reasonable control of the utility.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(4) PROCEDURE FOR ASSESSING PENALTY- The Secretary shall assess a civil penalty under this subsection in accordance with the procedures prescribed by section 333(d) of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1954 (
`(d) State Renewable Energy Account Program-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) IN GENERAL- There is established in the Treasury a State renewable energy account program.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) DEPOSITS- All money collected by the Secretary from alternative compliance payments and the assessment of civil penalties under this section shall be deposited into the renewable energy account established pursuant to this subsection.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(3) USE- Proceeds deposited in the State renewable energy account shall be used by the Secretary, subject to appropriations, for a program to provide grants to the State agency responsible for developing State energy conservation plans under section 362 of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (
`(4) ADMINISTRATION- The Secretary may issue guidelines and criteria for grants awarded under this subsection. State energy offices receiving grants under this section shall maintain such records and evidence of compliance as the Secretary may require.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(5) PREFERENCE- In allocating funds under this program, the Secretary shall give preference--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) to States in regions which have a disproportionately small share of economically sustainable renewable energy generation capacity; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) to State programs to stimulate or enhance innovative renewable energy technologies.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(e) Rules- The Secretary shall issue rules implementing this section not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(f) Exemptions- This section shall not apply in any calendar year to an electric utility--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) that sold less than 4,000,000 megawatt-hours of electric energy to electric consumers during the preceding calendar year; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) in Hawaii.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(g) Inflation Adjustment- Not later than December 31 of each year beginning in 2008, the Secretary shall adjust for inflation the rate of the alternative compliance payment under subsection (a)(2)(B) and the amount of the civil penalty per kilowatt-hour under subsection (c)(2).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(h) State Programs-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) IN GENERAL- Nothing in this section diminishes any authority of a State or political subdivision of a State to adopt or enforce any law or regulation respecting renewable energy or the regulation of electric utilities, but, except as provided in subsection (c)(3), no such law or regulation shall relieve any person of any requirement otherwise applicable under this section. The Secretary, in consultation with States having such renewable energy programs, shall, to the maximum extent practicable, facilitate coordination between the Federal program and State programs.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) REGULATIONS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) IN GENERAL- The Secretary, in consultation with States, shall promulgate regulations to ensure that an electric utility that is subject to the requirements of this section and is subject to a State renewable energy standard receives renewable energy credits if--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) the electric utility complies with State standard by generating or purchasing renewable electric energy or renewable energy certificates or credits; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) the State imposes or allows other mechanisms for achieving the State standard, including the payment of taxes, fees, surcharges, or other financial obligations.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) AMOUNT OF CREDITS- The amount of credits received by an electric utility under this subsection shall equal--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) in the case of subparagraph (A)(i), the renewable energy resulting from the generation or purchase by the electric utility of existing renewable energy or new renewable energy; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) in the case of subparagraph (A)(ii), the pro rata share of the electric utility, based on the contributions to the mechanism made by the electric utility or customers of the electric utility, in the State, of the renewable energy resulting from those mechanisms.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(C) PROHIBITION ON DOUBLE COUNTING- The regulations promulgated under this paragraph shall ensure that a kilowatt-hour associated with a renewable energy credit issued pursuant to this subsection shall not be used for compliance with this section more than once.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) Definitions- In this section:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(1) BASE AMOUNT OF ELECTRICITY- The term `base amount of electricity' means the total amount of electricity sold by an electric utility to electric consumers in a calendar year, excluding--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) electricity generated by a hydroelectric facility (including a pumped storage facility but excluding incremental hydropower); andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(2) DISTRIBUTED GENERATION FACILITY- The term `distributed generation facility' means a facility at a customer site.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(3) EXISTING RENEWABLE ENERGY- The term `existing renewable energy' means, except as provided in paragraph (7)(B), electric energy generated at a facility (including a distributed generation facility) placed in service prior to January 1, 2001, from solar, wind, or geothermal energy, ocean energy, biomass (as defined in section 203(a) of the Energy Policy Act of 2005), or landfill gas.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(4) GEOTHERMAL ENERGY- The term `geothermal energy' means energy derived from a geothermal deposit (within the meaning of section 613(e)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(5) INCREMENTAL GEOTHERMAL PRODUCTION-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) IN GENERAL- The term `incremental geothermal production' means for any year the excess of--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) the total kilowatt hours of electricity produced from a facility (including a distributed generation facility) using geothermal energy; overCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) the average annual kilowatt hours produced at such facility for 5 of the previous 7 calendar years before the date of enactment of this section after eliminating the highest and the lowest kilowatt hour production years in such 7-year period.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) SPECIAL RULE- A facility described in subparagraph (A) that was placed in serviceCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
at least 7 years before the date of enactment of this section shall, commencing with the year in which such date of enactment occurs, reduce the amount calculated under subparagraph (A)(ii) each year, on a cumulative basis, by the average percentage decrease in the annual kilowatt hour production for the 7-year period described in subparagraph (A)(ii) with such cumulative sum not to exceed 30 percent.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(6) INCREMENTAL HYDROPOWER- The term `incremental hydropower' means additional energy generated as a result of efficiency improvements or capacity additions made on or after January 1, 2001, or the effective date of an existing applicable State renewable portfolio standard program at a hydroelectric facility that was placed in service before that date. The term does not include additional energy generated as a result of operational changes not directly associated with efficiency improvements or capacity additions. Efficiency improvements and capacity additions shall be measured on the basis of the same water flow information used to determine a historic average annual generation baseline for the hydroelectric facility and certified by the Secretary or the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(7) NEW RENEWABLE ENERGY- The term `new renewable energy' means--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(A) electric energy generated at a facility (including a distributed generation facility) placed in service on or after January 1, 2001, from--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) solar, wind, or geothermal energy or ocean energy;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) biomass (as defined in section 203(b) of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
`(iii) landfill gas; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(iv) incremental hydropower; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(B) for electric energy generated at a facility (including a distributed generation facility) placed in service before January 1, 2001--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(i) the additional energy above the average generation during the period beginning on January 1, 1998, and ending on January 1, 2001, at the facility from--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(I) solar or wind energy or ocean energy;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(II) biomass (as defined in section 203(b) of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (
`(III) landfill gas; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(IV) incremental hydropower; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(ii) incremental geothermal production.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(8) OCEAN ENERGY- The term `ocean energy' includes current, wave, tidal, and thermal energy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(9) RETAIL ELECTRIC SUPPLIER- The term `retail electric supplier' means a person that sells electric energy to electric consumers and sold not less than 1,000,000 megawatt-hours of electric energy to electric consumers for purposes other than resale during the preceding calendar year; except that such term does not include the United States, a State or any political subdivision of a State, or any agency, authority, or instrumentality of any one or more of the foregoing, or a rural electric cooperative.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`(j) Sunset- This section expires on December 31, 2030.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
(b) Table of Contents Amendment- The table of contents of the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 (16 U.S.C. prec. 2601) is amended by adding at the end of the items relating to title VI the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
`Sec. 610. Renewable portfolio standard.'.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink
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