The US Government subsidizes all forms of energy production, from a $10 billion cap on nuclear disasters to tax credits and cash grants.  Where does renewable energy fall into that sizable outlay of money?  According to Renewable Energy World, only so-so.

Types of Federal Subsidies Available

• Tax Credits: Solar investment and production credits fall into this category (i.e. put solar on your roof and we’ll reimburse up to %20 with tax credits).  Ethanol and Biofuel also fall into this category.  This is the largest method of subsidy, comprising 45% of all government energy assistance between 1950 and 2003, and a peak of 65% in 2006.
• Cash Grants, Loan Guarantees and Others: These accounted for about 20% of federal support between 1950 and 2003, and 29% in 2006.  The ARRA Renewable Energy Cash Grants fall into this category.  Essentially, this type of subsidy is a handout or a loan with very agreeable terms to ensure the success of the recipient. (more…)

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The U.S. economy finally experienced a little growth in the third quarter of 2009, taking a small 3.5 percent step in the right direction. While this modest growth doesn’t have consumers or economists jumping for joy, it is considered a harbinger of sunnier days to come despite the fact that a surplus of new jobs is not accompanying the growth, with national unemployment now above 10 percent.

Still, there is growth. And better yet, the future is looking especially bright for the green tech industry, including solar and renewable energy. In a recent post for Renewable Energy World, EnergyBiz Insider Editor-in-Chief Ken Silverstein pointed to several signs that green tech investment and companies were set to rise above the fold. (more…)

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Habitat for Humanity is turning one Oakland brownfield into several green homes as part of its ongoing East Bay Project. With help from Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) and a slew of volunteers, Habitat is building a 54-home development of affordable housing for low-income homeowners. The development site, a former battery salvage yard, was labeled a “blighted property” by the EPA and California’s Department of Toxic Substances.

Yet that did not stop Habitat For Humanity. Roughly 300,000 cubic yards of soil had to be removed and replaced, but you can bet the effort will be worth it for the new residents of Edes Avenue. (more…)

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