Archive for August, 2010

Renewable Energy+Texas=Jobs and Revenue!


There is a wonderful article from Triple Pundit (Planet, People, Profit) that elaborates on the many ways Texas is perfect for a rousing renewable energy future.  Plus, the Lone Star State has already met its goal of having 10,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity 15 years ahead of schedule

Now an independent foundation released a report stating that Texas’s renewable energy future could include almost 23,000 jobs a year and $2.7 billion in local and state tax revenues.  Could clean tech follow high tech and biotech as Texas giants?

The report, announced earlier this week at the State Capitol in Austin, is the work of the Cynthia and George Mitchell Foundation.  In sum, the study proposes the state could become a catalyst for the renewable energy industry, and envisions three scenarios:

  • For an approximate $13 increase in residential energy bills, the state could gain a 20% growth in its renewable energy capacity, which in turn would create the best possible scenario, the presumed 22,900 additional clean energy jobs added annually.  State revenues would also reach the aforementioned $2.7 billion mark.  Many residents would probably balk at this—or would the “price of a postage stamp” daily argument work?
  • In a baseline scenario, a statewide $4 utility bill increase would create about 6000 new jobs annually, and net a 15% percentgreenjobsgroup increase in Texas’s renewable energy capacity.  Texas would also gain close to $1 billion in revenues, with the state and municipalities splitting that gain about 80-20%.
  • If Texas stays the course, there would be some modest growth in job creation, economic growth and tax revenues, but nothing approaching the baseline or best-possible scenarios

Read the rest here:  http://tinyurl.com/2ubknlr 

Renters Can Make Homes Eco Friendly


Here’s a link to a great article with ammunition for renters looking to live more sustainably even when they can’t do many of the things homeowners can, like adding insulation or solar panels.  There are PLENTY of things that can reduce the carbon footprint of those wishing to use less energy and water, reduce household pollutants, and even tips for negotating with your landlord on a 0902_green_chairvariety of eco friendly projects!   Read it all here: http://tinyurl.com/34pdodk

LEAGUE CITY’S GREEN MILESTONE


LEAGUE CITY (Galveston County Daily News) — Associated Credit Union has helped the city achieve a green milestone by introducing the city’s first LEED-certified building.

The 30,000-sf, $5.5 million structure at 1095 W. League City Pkwy. will serve as the company’s new headquarters.

Wood from sustainable forests, as well as recycled carpet and countertops, were used to complete the interior. A reflective roof and eight-inch thick concrete walls insulate the building.

Concave light fixtures maximize bulb reflection and allow the building to use fewer lights. In addition, large sun-reflecting glass windows let in natural light but prevent heat from entering the building.

“We’re trying to set an example on the island that green is feasible and effective in the long run,” said Hank Hodde, education director for the U.S. Green Building Council’s Galveston branch. “It has to be more than a fad. Energy resources are just going to continue to decrease.”

About 80 percent of waste that resulted from building the credit union was recycled.