As I commented on the White House ‘Wall’: This is great that you announced a federal investigation into Wall Street. Now … to see you actually DO the right thing for the AVERAGE person in this country and make the wealthy oil companies give back to our country and pay their share of taxes and return the unfair rebates that the IRS has given them. Absurd! If they paid their fair share, our country would definitely be on the road out of debt – and one of the worst thing is that they most of them aren’t willing to do the fair thing and that they even accept the ‘bennies’ they have been receiving!

Why do they even NEED all of their trilions of $? 
It won’t do them one bit of good if you don’t ‘G.E.T.’ one VERY important thing you sure got wrong in your speech, which is regarding CLEAN ENERGY! Clean energy does NOT include offshore drilling, gas fracking or coal. This will only keep the big oil companies happy. I have to consequently question your sincerity about Clean Renewable Energy, which should be one of your top concerns, along with getting our CO2 emissions. If this does not get under control by 2017, the IEA has warned the world that we are in BIG trouble – it will be too late to turn things around. Life cannot survive at 129º as Pakistan endured this past summer – take note of just this winter’s warmth in the whole northern part of our country and lack of snow. Snow means water for the rest of the year for places like Reno, NV, from Lake Tahoe – for example…

We need your help, Mr. President! 
And while we are on the subject – Where is that Solar that was supposed to be installed back on the White House, any way? Why have we not heard any more about that?

One more concern, Dear Mr. Obama: What are your plans for reducing our emission levels from the two worst offenders: Transportation and leaking under-insulated buildings that are wasting fossil fuel and sending the emissions off into our atmosphere, just adding to the problem?  These should be on your list of top infrastructures to change immediately – or at least working on feverishly…  No problems – only solutions!

In case you missed it or would like to watch last night’s ‘State of the Union Address’ , here it is:

Governor Peter Shumlin is thinking big. His comprehensive energy plan calls for Vermont to receive 90% of its energy from renewable sources by 2050. This is an amazing goal for our state. If implemented, this plan would make the Green Mountain State a leader in clean energy and an example for the rest of the country. Vermont can do this — but the governor needs your support.

Tell Governor Shumlin and key lawmakers that you support this comprehensive energy plan.

It is a bold plan. In addition to the 90% renewable goal for 2050, the governor wants our state to get 75% of electricity from renewable sources within 20 years. We can’t let this opportunity get away. We need to speak out and let the governor know that he has the support it takes to make this happen.

Show your support today for a greener Green Mountain State!

Investing in renewable energy means cleaner air. It means fighting climate change. It means more jobs for our state. This is a historic chance for Vermont to lead the charge towards a cleaner, greener future.

As Vermonters, let’s tell the governor that we stand with him to do tough things and get this done. Let’s show him that momentum is on the side of clean energy. Our future depends on it.

Thanks,

David Van Deusen
Conservation Organizer
Sierra Club

Tell Governor Shumlin: We Support Your Plan!

TAKE ACTION TODAY!

How you can help:
1. Share this with your social network using Facebook and Twitter.
2. Copy and paste the following into a new email to friends:
Dear Friends,
I just told Governor Shumlin that I support his bold plan to move Vermont to 90% renewable energy by 2050. This will make Vermont a leader in clean energy and green jobs. We need to show the governor he has the support he needs to make this a reality.

Send a message of support today!

Find out more and send your message here: http://www.greenenergytimes.org/?p=3709

Startup about to begin with the production of their 100mpg car.  Things are looking brighter for transportation issues and our planet as a consequence.   The bad news is the price tag of $40,000…

Marisa Krystian | Dec 17, 2011 4:49pm EST | 1min:32sec

Ford announced this week it will begin production of the 2012 Focus Electric, the first five-passenger electric car to average more than 100 miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe) on the fuel efficiency scale.

Ford has been shifting its vehicle lineup to a more fuel efficient one, and the new Focus Electric takes the lead on that initiative, but with a catch: a price tag of nearly $40,000.

Ford will begin rolling out Focus Electrics on the coasts — in the New York/New Jersey area, and in California. Later in 2012, the company will expand availability to 15 other major-city markets in the U.S.

Fuel economy is the major selling point for Ford. Some even say Ford has built up its standing as the brand of fuel efficiency.

The company said that one-third of its lineup will feature models that average 40 or more miles per gallon in 2012.

Derrick Kuzak, group vice president of Ford’s global product development, said “The Focus Electric is a shining example of the leading fuel economy Ford is offering for each new vehicle. Whether people want a hybrid, plug-in hybrid or full battery-electric vehicle, we have a family of vehicles for them to consider, providing a range of options to best meet their needs and support their driving habits and lifestyles.”

But another attractive feature that might draw consumers is the Focus’ quicker charge rate. The Focus Electric is the first vehicle to charge with 240-volt outlets, nearly cutting charging time in half from the 2012 Nissan Leaf, a major competitor on the electric-car market.

But consider the price range — the Nissan Leaf starts around $35,000, while the 4-seater Mitsubishi i starts around $29,000.

Auto analysts say Ford’s potential success will come if the company realizes the relatively limited market for a steeply priced electric car.

We have until 2017! That is FIVE years!!! FIVE!!! The whole world is at stake – nut just Africa!

Tears run down my face in fear – yet we MUST stay strong and Get IT DONE!

What are YOU… yes, YOU doing – not your neighbor?  Don’t wait until it is too late!

Do you even know what to do? Where to start? The answer lies within our Transportation, Buildings, which are the two worst offenders to our emission levels.

Please Don’t drive unless it is absolutely necessary. Never Idle. Car and Van Pool, Use Rideshare to connect!  In Vermont: www.ConnectingCommuters.org  (800-685-RIDE) or www.uppervalleyrideshare.com (802-295-1824 x204). Take the bus, train, ferry, bike, e-bike, walk, ski… and drive energy efficient vehicles. Our future transportation infrastructure needs to start now!

Seal and Insulate your Buildings to reduce the emissions caused from the use of dirty non-renewable fossil fuels. You can’t seal them tight enough!  Zero Energy Buildings ARE achievable. This should be the goal and not to settle for anything less!

Renewable Energy – this is the solution! Clean energy from Solar, Wind, Micro-hydro*…  We need Community Solar and Wind Farms… We can’t get solar installed or wind turbines up fast enough!  It is about TIME!  NOW is the time to G.E.T. going!

Learn more in every issue of Green Energy Times… New Issue coming out on Dec. 15th with a Front page article about the 2017 dilemma directly from the IEA warning, that Anjali Appadurai refers to … The new issue will be online next week, so ck back with us! AND, watch for G.E.T.  at newstands near you or subscribe on this website out and about in VT and NH at the same time!

* Micro-hydro is an untapped goldmine of energy producing power that runs 24 hrs a day and does NOT harm the environment in ANY way. The Federal Gov’t is the only block in making this happen.  It is time to get that changed.  Go to your state representatives and government officials and let’s get the micro-hydro laws changed!

Did you know that 47% of the population in the United States, including those “running” our country, do not believe that the changes in our climate are a result of our carbon emissions? Despite the irrefutable data given to them by unbiased scientists, many of our leader’s remain unwilling to implement policies that will move us toward a sustainable, environmentally sound future.

The people in attendance of this conference are all aware of the truth and work tirelessly to bring about the awareness of we what all need to be doing. There were workshops and round table discussions on all major areas where efficient, environmentally sound, and sustainable progress needs to be made.  Some of these included information on weatherization on a tight budget, Ambassador programs to assist small businesses in becoming more energy efficient, biomass, micro-hydro, wind, and solar projects.  Round table talks on Idle Free Zones to lessen carbon emissions, how to start a grass roots movement in your community, sustaining and mobilizing volunteers, progress in alternative modes of transportation, to include; trains, carpooling, and bus transportation.

There were individuals from varied socio-economic backgrounds and age groups. All were in support of local communities and the theme most prevalent was,  Our planet is in Peril, and we must all act NOW to affect change, and make every effort to reduce our carbon footprint.” Near zero emissions are what we must work toward.

Vermont Representative, Bernie Sanders spoke of the recognition this state is getting in Washington. Vermont, and Governor Peter Shumlin, is a national leader in environmental awareness, progress toward sustainable communities and implementation of sound practices. Vermont is being hailed as a “model” to follow.

Environmentalists are no longer being perceived as right-wing trouble makers, but more looked upon as sober, progressive, “smart” thinkers.

If you did not have the opportunity to attend this important event this year, I would highly recommend that you do so next year. The amount of information and knowledge you will gain is invaluable. No matter what role you play in your community, what state, or where in this world you are from, there are lessons you will take away that can teach you how to make a difference. Thank you VECAN for holding this inspirational conference and to Lake Morey Inn for providing such a beautiful, environmentally conscious, facility.

Community Energy & Climate Action

1 Clubhouse Rd., Lake Morey Resort • Fairlee, VT 05045

8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Eastern Time)

Map and Directions

The University of Vermont Extension and the Vermont Energy and Climate Action Network (VECAN) invite you to attend a conference on Community Energy and Climate Action on Saturday, December 3, 2011 at the Lake Morey Inn in Fairlee, Vermont.

The conference begins with coffee and refreshments and exhibitors starting at 8:00am and will conclude at 4:00pm.

Who Should Attend?
Town energy committee members  *  Selectboard and city council members * Conservation commissioners * Professional and citizen planners * Town public works staff  *  Environmental business professionals * State government officials * Academics * Concerned citizens

Download conference brochure and registration form.

About the Conference

Building on a very successful history, this conference is for those interested in how Vermont communities can take action to increase energy efficiency and renewable energy for municipal government, businesses, and residents. The day will include concurrent workshop presentations, roundtable discussions, and general sessions. The goal for the day is to provide strategies communities can implement to reduce energy costs and reduce the damaging greenhouse gasses released into the environment. Participants will gain an increased understanding of a wide range of local opportunities for tackling energy and climate change at the local level, while also having an opportunity to network with other Vermont communities. 

Registration 

Advanced registration is required. The registration fee includes all workshop materials, general sessions, breaks, and lunch.

General registration: includes registration and lunch featuring local foods. 

Registration after November 25 is $30/person.

This daylong conference offers an unparalleled experience for town energy committee leaders, municipal officials, local and regional planners, and concerned citizens to learn new strategies and identify opportunities to reduce energy costs and tackle climate change.

Register today for this 4th annual event, hosted by the Vermont Energy and Climate Action Network and the UVM Extension Service at http://www.regonline.com/2011Energy

Vermont Department of Public Service Commissioner Elizabeth Miller will talk about the new Comprehensive Energy Plan and what it means for communities.

Vermont Agency of Natural Resources Secretary Deborah Markowitz will discuss the work of the State’s Climate Cabinet.

The conference will also feature environmental activist, actor, and writer Kathryn Blume, who will talk about how one individual can make a difference in affecting climate change.

The day includes 14 different workshops focused on promoting efficiency and renewable energy at the local level, along with a number of different roundtable discussions topics designed to promote dialogue on the most pressing energy topics.

Don’t miss this important event! Help shape Vermont’s energy future. Register today at http://www.regonline.com/2011Energy.

For more information, contact: Jessie Schmidt, UVM Extension at: 866-860-1382 extension 203 or Email: jessica.a.schmidt@uvm.edu.

COLCHESTER, VT–(Marketwire – October 26, 2011) – Green Mountain Power (GMP) and Healthy Living Market unveiled a public electric vehicle (EV) charging station in the Healthy Living Market parking lot on Dorset Street in South Burlington, VT on Wednesday, October 26. Drivers will be able to charge an electric vehicle at no cost for the first year of operation. The charging station is incorporated into a striking sculpture of a tree by Vermont artist Kat Clear.

“We are excited to partner with Healthy Living to make this new EV station available to the community,” said Mary Powell, President and CEO of Green Mountain Power. “Having charging station infrastructure is critical to the adoption of electric vehicles. This project and others like it will also help GMP learn more about how people use electric vehicles, so we can move away from fossil fuel-based transportation without jeopardizing reliability and cost.”

“What an exciting project for Healthy Living, GMP, and the City of South Burlington,” said Eli Lesser-Goldsmith, the store’s owner and general manager. “Customers can fill up their electric cars while shopping for groceries. And the sculpture by Kat Clear makes this charging station the most unique and beautiful one I’ve ever seen. This is an excellent partnership that I hope to see grow as the market for electric cars grows.”

“Reducing Vermonters’ reliance on carbon-intensive fuels is a high priority of the Shumlin Administration,” stated Brian Searles, Secretary of the Vermont Agency of Transportation. “Forty-seven percent of Vermont’s greenhouse gas emissions come from transportation. Increasing the number of cars that run on renewable electricity is one of many strategies that Vermont can employ to change this.”

This new Coulomb Technologies CT2100 Chargepoint electric vehicle charging station is compatible with all electric vehicles on the market today. It includes customer-oriented features such as on-line and smartphone directions and reservations, driver notification of charge status, and effortless charging session initiation. The system will also provide feedback so that GMP can better understand how plug-in drivers use charging stations in the community.

The station will be paired with a net-metered solar array that is planned for the roof of Healthy Living Market. “The solar panel will help demonstrate how renewable energy fits in with new technologies to displace the carbon emissions from transportation,” said Ms. Powell.

It is anticipated that the electric vehicle market will grow in the coming years, with more than 100 plug-in electric or hybrid models available by 2013. The EV charging station will be different than the traditional gas station model, as fully charging a vehicle takes multiple hours, and will typically be done at home. However, it is expected that public charging stations will be used to “top off” electric vehicles to expand their range.

GMP has launched a new website at ev.greenmountainpower.com to share details about its charging station installations, and to be a resource where people can learn more about plug-in electric vehicles and EV charging station infrastructure.

Green Mountain Power’s environmental commitment has already inspired some electric vehicle purchases for the company. The company operates 22 hybrid vehicles, including two bucket trucks and three Toyota Priuses converted to plug-in hybrids powered by solar arrays, and two GEM neighborhood electric vehicles.

About Green Mountain Power
Green Mountain Power (www.greenmountainpower.com) generates, transmits, distributes and sells electricity in the State of Vermont and is a leader in wind and solar generation. It serves more than 96,000 customers.

About Healthy Living
Healthy Living Market and Café (www.healthylivingmarket.com) is Vermont’s premiere and largest Natural Foods Store. Selling the finest natural, organic, and local foods, Healthy Living is a one-stop-shop for all your foodie needs. Started almost 30 years ago, the store has grown exponentially over the years, now employing over 150 people and epitomizing the “local food movement.”

Watch for it at a newsstand, supermarket, and local stores and establishments near you – throughout 85% of Vermont & 45% of New Hampshire! Be sure to pick up copies when they first come out or they may be gone when you come back.

If you can’t find it near you – let us know so that we see if we can make it happen… you can also subscribe right from this website on the Advertising/Subscriptions Tab (above).

Enjoy, learn and most of all we hope you find something to help move us forward on our path to energy independence and reducing our carbon emission levels.  Share your stories with us!  We love to hear from you!

You don’t have to have a license, plates or insurance as long as your machine can be called a bicycle-it has pedals. Which means you can go anywhere a bike can. They are a quiet non-polluting people friendly form of alternative transportation.

Electric bikes are offered as conversions for an existing bike with a do-it-yourself kit or complete new electric bikes ready to go. The kits are easily seen on the internet on E-Bay. A typical kit costs on average $250-300 with batteries an additional separate purchase. It should be noted that virtually all modestly priced electric bikes, kits and components come from China. This is because China has a huge market-they sell over a million electric bike kits and bikes a year domestically.

China has a huge market. They sell over a million electric bike kits and bikes a year domestically.

And then there are the prebuilt ready to go bikes. They have numerous advantages including a complete engineered package and some dealer back-up. These ready-made bikes range from a little over $300 on up to well over a thousand. Be prepared to spend at least $500+ for anything decent and carefully check out the specs. Pay attention to battery voltage, type of battery and amp hour ratings.

The most common electric bike motor is the motor in hub type. These feature a gearless, brushless motor built right in the center of the wheel hub. There are no chains or belts. The slim motor is the size of a pie plate and comes installed in a bike wheel with rim and spokes. Some kits even come with a tube and tire already installed. So the motor is encased in the hub and your existing wheel/tire assembly is replaced by the new hub motor wheel. With that comes the electronic controller which is the brains and your twist throttle to regulate speed. Most kits do come complete with a wheel, electronic controller, wiring and a throttle. Some even include a rack to mount your battery.

For those looking for basic, clean non fossil-fueled transportation for doing local errands it’s hard to beat and I recommend it highly. You can still pedal and get all the exercise you want. Some use their electric power just for hills and heavy loads like groceries. The web has lots of stories about folks commuting 10 miles to work each way rain or shine. And loving every minute of it.

Once you try it, you’ll get the EV Grin! And remember- up to 20 clean miles for 5c.

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