Author: WHCEQ Staff      Published: 9/30/2023    White House Council on Environmental Quality

This Week in Environmental News

Yesterday, the Biden-Harris administration hosted the first-ever White House Summit on Building Climate Resilient Communities, which included representatives from more than 25 states, territories, and Tribal Nations. The Summit, which fulfilled a commitment President Biden made in June, underscores the Administration’s commitment to solutions that will both dramatically reduce greenhouse gas emissions and better manage climate threats, and recognizes the importance of locally tailored, community-driven strategies.

In conjunction with the Summit, the Biden-Harris Administration released the National Climate Resilience Framework, a vision for a climate resilient nation designed to guide and align climate resilience investments and activities by the federal government and its partners. The Framework identifies common principles and specific actions to accelerate progress towards six objectives. Federal agencies also announced new actions – including the awarding or availability of more than $500 million in dedicated funding – to build climate resilience.

Also this week:

• President Biden signed a Presidential Memorandum to prioritize the restoration of healthy and abundant wild salmon, steelhead, and other native fish populations to the Columbia River Basin. The Memorandum follows a historic agreement signed last week with Tribal Nations to reintroduce salmon into blocked areas in the Upper Basin. Learn more about the Administration’s historic ecosystem restoration efforts in the Columbia River Basin here.
• The U.S. Department of the Treasury, U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), and the Internal Revenue Service announced that applications for the Inflation Reduction Act’s Low-Income Communities Bonus Credit Program under Section 48(e) of the Internal Revenue Code will open at 9:00 am ET on October 19, 2023. The program will spur clean energy investments in underserved communities by providing a 10 or 20-percentage point tax credit boost for solar and wind projects in low-income and Tribal communities.
• DOE announced the eighth cohort of its Grid Resilience State and Tribal Formula Grants, with $167.7 million in awards from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to help modernize the electric grid to reduce impacts of climate-driven extreme weather while also ensuring power sector reliability.
• The Department of the Treasury issued guidance on the Inflation Reduction Act’s 45L new energy efficient home tax credit that offers up to $5,000 to eligible contractors who construct, reconstruct, or rehabilitate an energy efficient home to meet the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Energy Star Certification and DOE’s Zero Energy Ready Homes Certification.
• The Administration announced that it will develop a standard national definition for a zero-emissions building for non-federally owned buildings. This action will accelerate climate progress by helping the building industry construct buildings that are both zero-emissions and more climate resilient. The final definition will be published in early 2024 following a stakeholder engagement process.
• The Federal Aviation Administration announced nearly $300 million in funding for projects to help achieve America’s goal of net-zero emissions from aviation by 2050.
• EPA announced the availability of $100 million in grants to support efforts to report and reduce climate pollution linked to the manufacturing of construction materials and products, which account for 11% of annual global greenhouse gas emissions.
• President Biden vetoed two resolutions that would overturn protections for at-risk wildlife. S.J. Res. 24 and S.J Res. 9 would overturn science-based rulemakings that follow the requirements of the law, and thereby undermine the Endangered Species Act and America’s proud wildlife conservation tradition.

#ICYMI (IN CASE YOU MISSED IT)

Last week, the Biden-Harris Administration celebrated Climate Week with major action across the Federal government to tackle the climate crisis:

• The Administration launched the American Climate Corps, a workforce training and service initiative that will put a new generation of more than 20,000 young people to work in the growing fields of climate resilience, conservation, and clean energy.
• The Administration announced its latest steps to expand offshore wind opportunities for years to come, with a new federal-state agreement on regional supply chain collaboration, an Atlantic Offshore Wind Transmission Action Plan, and $72 million in funding for wind energy innovation.
• DOE announced the availability of $325 million to accelerate the development of long-duration energy storage (LDES) technologies.
• The Biden-Harris Administration announced $400 million for states to improve building energy efficiency, save consumers money, and make buildings more climate resilient.
• EPA launched a $4.6 billion competition to fund state, local, and Tribal programs and policies that cut climate pollution, advance environment.

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Top: Graveyard Spit Site Inspection, NOAA, 2022.

Bottom: Wetland Erosion Graveyard Spit, NOAA,

News Clips of the Week

CNN: Opinion: Biden’s American Climate Corps could be the lasting legacy of this generation

Politico: White House to release resilience framework at climate summit

The Hill: Biden administration moves to undo two Trump-era Endangered Species Act rollbacks

AP: Biden deal with tribes promises $200M for Columbia River salmon reintroduction

The Spokesman-Review: ‘This is historic’: Biden orders whole-of-government effort to restore salmon in Columbia, Snake rivers

Post and Courier: With veto, Biden upholds ESA protections against GOP attacks | SC Climate and Environment News

The Washington Post: White House to announce new definition of zero-emission buildings

Axios: FAA offers millions for sustainable fuel rollout

Smart Cities Dive: National climate resilience plan unveiled by Biden administration | Smart Cities Dive

Recent Biden-Harris Administration Announcements

FACT SHEET: Biden-⁠Harris Administration Hosts First-Ever White House Climate Resilience Summit and Releases National Climate Resilience Framework

“Today President Biden is fulfilling a commitment he made in June to host the first-ever White House Summit on Building Climate Resilient Communities. This Summit, which will include representatives from more than 25 states, territories, and Tribal Nations, underscores the Administration’s commitment to solutions that will both dramatically reduce greenhouse gas emissions and better manage climate threats, and recognizes the importance of locally tailored, community-driven strategies.”

Biden-Harris Administration Announces $100 Million to Bolster Climate Resilience in Communities as Part of Investigating in America Agenda

Today, the Department of Commerce and NOAA announced the availability of $100 million to support climate resilience projects through U.S. Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS) Regional Associations as part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda. This funding is from the Inflation Reduction Act, the largest climate investment in history, and comes one day after the first-ever White House Summit on Building Climate Resilient Communities.

PRESS RELEASE: Biden-Harris Administration Makes $328 Million Available for Drought and Climate Resiliency Projects as Part of President’s Investigating in American Agenda

“The Department of the Interior today announced up to $328 million in funding opportunities available through President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, a key pillar of Bidenomics, to help communities address impacts of climate change through water recycling, water storage and desalination projects.”

PRESS RELEASE: Biden-Harris Administration invests $6 million in new climate adaptation team through Investing in America agenda

“Today, the Department of Commerce and NOAA announced that $6 million in funding over five years has been awarded to the University of Iowa and its partners to expand collaborative research and community engagement projects for climate adaptation planning and action. The initiative, which targets the Central Midwest states of Iowa, Missouri, Kansas and Nebraska, will add a 13th regional team to the NOAA Climate Adaptation Partnerships (CAP)/ Regional Integrated Sciences and Assessments (RISA) network.”

PRESS RELEASE: Biden-Harris Administration invests $12.7 million to develop climate-smart communities through Investing in America agenda

“Today, the Department of Commerce and NOAA announced $12.7 million in funding to advance the Climate-Smart Communities Initiative. This funding, which is available as part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda under the Inflation Reduction Act — the largest climate investment in history — will bring climate adaptation expertise to communities across the U.S. over the next four years.”

PRESS RELEASE: U.S. Department of Energy Announces $38 Million to Deploy Clean Energy Technology in American Indian and Alaska Native Communities

“In support of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today announced $38 million in funding for 13 projects aimed at advancing clean energy technology deployment in American Indian and Alaska Native communities. This funding will bolster ongoing efforts to reduce and stabilize energy costs, increase energy security and resilience, and provide electric power to Native communities.”

PRESS RELEASE: EPA Reaches Agreement with Navajo Tribal Utility Authority to Improve Wastewater Treatment

“Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced two settlements with the Navajo Tribal Utility Authority (NTUA) to address non-compliance with its Clean Water Act wastewater programs. NTUA operates the Shiprock and Window Rock wastewater treatment plants, which discharge treated wastewater within the boundaries of the Navajo Nation.”

PRESS RELEASE: Biden-Harris Administration Announces $100 Million in Grants to Support Manufacturers of Cleaner Construction Materials as Part of Investing in America Agenda

“Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the availability of $100 million in grants to support efforts to report and reduce climate pollution linked to the manufacturing of construction materials and products, which account for 11% of annual global greenhouse gas emissions. The funding through EPA’s new Reducing Embodied Greenhouse Gas Emissions for Construction Materials program will help manufacturers disclose environmental impacts across the life of a product and inform institutional purchasers who are prioritizing lower embodied carbon construction materials.”

PRESS RELEASE: EPA Finalizes Rule to Require Reporting of PFAS Data to Better Protect Communities from Forever Chemicals

“Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized a rule that will provide EPA, its partners, and the public with the largest-ever dataset of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) manufactured and used in the United States. This rule builds on over two years of progress on the Biden-Harris Administration’s action plan to combat PFAS pollution, safeguarding public health and advancing environmental justice, and is a key action in EPA’s PFAS Strategic Roadmap.”

PRESS RELEASE: Biden-Harris Administration Makes $500 Million Available to Fund School Buses that Reduce Pollution, Save Money, and Protect Health

“Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the availability of at least $500 million in funding from the Clean School Bus rebate competition that is transforming school bus fleets across America and protecting children from air pollution. This second round of funding will build on the previous nearly $1 billion investment to further improve air quality in and around schools, reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and help accelerate America’s leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future.”

PRESS RELEASE: USDA Sees Record Demand to Advance Clean Energy in Rural America Through President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda

“U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack announced today that USDA received record demand for funding to advance affordable and reliable clean energy in rural America under key programs made possible by President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, the largest clean energy and climate investment in history and the largest investment ever in rural energy infrastructure.”

PRESS RELEASE: U.S. Department of the Treasury, U.S. Department of Energy, IRS Announce Date for Opening of Applications for Investing in America Program to Spur Clean Energy Investments in Underserved Communities

“This groundbreaking program through President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act — the largest climate investment in history — provides a 10 or 20-percentage point boost to the Investment Tax Credit for qualified solar or wind facilities in low-income communities. The goals of the program are to increase access to clean energy in low-income communities, encourage new market participants, and benefit individuals and communities that have experienced adverse health or environmental effects or lacked economic opportunities.”

FACT SHEET: President Biden Takes Action to Restore Healthy and Abundant Wild Salmon and Steelhead in the Columbia River Basin

“Today, President Biden signed a Presidential Memorandum to prioritize the restoration of healthy and abundant wild salmon, steelhead, and other native fish populations to the Columbia River Basin. The Presidential Memorandum is part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s unprecedented commitment to honor the United States’ obligations to Tribal Nations and protect and restore America’s natural wonders for future generations, while also recognizing the important co-benefits that the Columbia River provides to communities and businesses throughout the region.”

PRESS RELEASE: Biden-Harris Administration Announces $22 Million to Support Smart Manufacturing at Small- and Medium-sized Facilities Across the Nation

“In support of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, a key pillar of Bidenomics, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced $22 million to 12 state-run programs to accelerate smart manufacturing at small- and medium-sized facilities.”

PRESS RELEASE: Biden-Harris Administration Announces $80 million through Investing in American Agenda to Improve Flood Prediction Capabilities

“Earlier this month, the Department of Commerce and NOAA’s Office of Water Prediction awarded the Next Generation Water Prediction Capability contract to Raytheon, an RTX Business. The $80 million, four-year contract will transform water prediction by enabling rapid deployment of advanced water models to provide coupled, continental scale, operational coastal and inland flood forecasting and inundation mapping services.”

PRESS RELEASE: Biden-Harris Administration Announces $235 Million Investment to Assess and Clean up Brownfield Sites Across America

“Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the availability of $235 million in grants from President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, a key pillar of Bidenomics, to assess and clean up polluted brownfield sites across the country. The new grants through EPA’s Brownfields Multipurpose, Assessment, and Cleanup (MAC) program will advance environmental justice and help transform what were once polluted, vacant, and abandoned properties into community assets while spurring economic revitalization in underserved communities.”

PRESS RELEASE: Biden-Harris Administration Announces Availability of $20 Million in Grants to Create Career Opportunities in the Water Workforce

“The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is announcing the availability of over $20 million in grant funding to support training for workers who protect and treat our nation’s drinking water and provide critical wastewater services. Through the Innovative Water Infrastructure Workforce Development Grant program, EPA will support training and career opportunities in the water sector.”

Author: Eric Lundgren        Published: 9/29/2023    Big Battery

Author: Jack Adams      Published: June 1, 2023   Rays to Watts

In this article I’m thrilled to discuss the possibilities and limitations of using solar generators for homes, as a main power and also a backup power source. So I’ll guide you through the process of determining the size of a solar generator you will need to power your home appliance and devices.

But first…

Understanding Solar Generators

Before we explore the sizing considerations, let’s clarify what a solar generator actually is. Unlike traditional fuel-powered generators, solar generators rely on photovoltaic panels to convert sunlight into electricity.

This electricity is stored in batteries for later use or can be directly utilized to power appliances and devices in your home.

Assessing Your Homes Power Needs From A Solar Generator

To determine the right size of solar generator needed for your home, it’s crucial to assess your power needs accurately. Start by calculating your average power consumption by determining the energy consumed by essential appliances and electronics.

Make a list of the devices you would like to power during an outage and take note of their power requirements. Additionally, take into account the typical duration of power outages in your area.

Selecting the Right Size

The size of a solar generator primarily depends on its power capacity, which is measured in watt-hours (Wh) or kilowatt-hours (kWh). Choosing the right size is essential to ensure your generator can meet your power requirements adequately.

By assessing your power needs, you can estimate the capacity needed to support your essential devices.

Portable vs. Stationary Generators

Solar generators are designed to be portable. Portable generators offer the advantage of mobility, allowing you to take them on camping trips or other outdoor activities. On the other hand, the larger the wattage of the solar generators they heavier it is, some can weigh over 70 pounds.

Whilst they still can be moved, you wouldn’t want to do it every day! Large capacity solar generators certainly have more power and they can provide a seamless backup power solution.

Thought about These?

Several factors should be taken into account when selecting a solar generator. Firstly, consider the type and capacity of the battery within the generator, as it determines the stored energy available for use.

Secondly, pay attention to the efficiency and wattage of the solar panels, as they directly impact the generator’s ability to harness sunlight. Lastly, evaluate the weight, size, and portability of the generator, ensuring it fits your space and mobility requirements.

Installation and Maintenance

When it comes to installation, solar generators are relatively straightforward to set up, especially portable models. However, for grid-tied systems, it’s essential to consult a professional to ensure proper integration with your existing electrical system.

Also, regular maintenance is necessary to maximize the lifespan and efficiency of your solar generator. Clean the panels regularly, inspect the battery connections, and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for optimal performance.

Cost Considerations

Investing in a solar generator is a long-term decision that requires upfront investment. The cost varies depending on the generator’s size, battery capacity, and additional features. You can pay a few hundred dollars for a 500w unit and over $5000 for a 3000w unit.

While the initial investment may seem substantial, it’s crucial to consider the potential long-term savings on energy bills and the positive environmental impact.

Furthermore, be aware of any available incentives, rebates, or tax credits in your region that can help offset the cost.

Environmental Benefits

One of the most significant advantages of solar generators is their positive impact on the environment. By utilizing clean and renewable solar energy, these generators contribute to reducing carbon emissions.

By choosing solar power over traditional fuel-powered alternatives, you are actively participating in the transition towards a greener and more sustainable future.

FAQ 1: How long can a solar generator power my home during an outage?

The duration a solar generator can power your home during an outage depends on several factors, including the generator’s capacity, the energy consumption of your devices, and the amount of sunlight available for recharging. A larger capacity generator with efficient solar panels can provide power for several hours or even days, depending on your energy usage.

FAQ 2: Can I connect a solar generator to my existing electrical system?

Yes, it’s possible to connect a solar generator to your existing electrical system, especially if you opt for a stationary grid-tied system. By doing so, you can rely on solar power to supplement your energy needs and potentially reduce your reliance on the grid. Consult a professional electrician to ensure safe and proper integration.

FAQ 3: What happens to excess solar energy generated by the system?

In many regions, excess solar power produced by the system is retransmitted to the grid through a process called net metering. This allows you either to obtain credit or payment for the surplus electricity you produce, further maximizing the benefits of your solar generator.

FAQ 4: Are solar generators suitable for areas with less sunlight?

While solar generators perform optimally in areas with abundant sunlight, they can still be viable in areas with less sunlight. It’s important to consider the efficiency of solar panels and battery capacity when choosing a solar generator. Additionally, consulting with a solar energy expert can help you determine the feasibility of solar power in your specific location.

You can phone up companies in your area and get some free information with reference to the amount of solar panels you would need, and a recommended solar generator size that can comfortably power everything you need in your home.

FAQ 5: Can I expand my homes solar generator system in the future?

Yes, the scalability of solar generator systems allows for future expansion. If you anticipate increasing your energy needs or want to explore additional solar power applications, such as powering an electric vehicle or adding more appliances, there are systems that can be easily expanded as needed.

Year-Round Solar Efficiency and Power Output

Solar efficiency refers to the ability of solar panels to convert sunlight into electricity. It is typically represented as a percentage. Solar generators with higher efficiency can harness more energy from the available sunlight, resulting in increased power output.

However, it’s important to consider that solar efficiency can vary throughout the year due to factors such as sunlight intensity, cloud cover, and the angle and orientation of solar panels. Generally, solar generators tend to be more efficient during the summer months when sunlight is abundant.

Determining Power Output Requirements for Home Appliances

To properly assess the size of solar generators needed to power various home appliances, it’s important to understand the power consumption of these devices. The table below provides an estimate of the power requirements for common household appliances:

Note that these power consumption estimates can vary based on specific models and usage patterns. It’s advisable to refer to the manufacturer’s specifications or use a power meter to obtain accurate readings for your appliances.

Choosing the Right Size of Solar Generator For Your Home

When selecting a solar generator, it’s crucial to consider its power output or capacity. To power appliances during an outage, a solar generator should have a power capacity higher than the total power consumption of the devices you intend to run simultaneously.

For this discussion, we will focus on solar generators with a minimum power capacity of 3,000 watt-hours (Wh). These models can handle a range of appliances and provide a reasonable backup power solution.

It’s important to note that the power output of solar generators can be affected by several factors, including solar panel efficiency, battery capacity, and weather conditions. While solar generators have the ability to recharge using sunlight, their power output may vary throughout the year.

Geographical Variations in Solar Power Output

Solar power output can vary across different geographical regions due to variations in sunlight availability. To provide a more detailed analysis, let’s break down the United States into four sections: Northeast, Midwest, South, and West. The table below demonstrates the estimated power output (in watt-hours) per day for a 3,000 Wh solar generator in each region:

Keep in mind that these estimates are general and based on average sunlight conditions. The actual power output can be influenced by factors such as seasonality, cloud cover, and shading from nearby structures.

Device Run Times per Generator Size

To provide a clearer understanding of device run times per generator size in each geographical region, the table below presents an estimated range of run times (in hours) for various appliances using solar generators with a 3,000 Wh capacity:

It’s important to note that running high-power appliances such as air conditioners, washing machines, dishwashers, and electric stoves with solar generators of this size may not be feasible or sustainable. These appliances typically require significantly more power than what a 3,000 Wh generator can provide. Consider alternative solutions or higher-capacity 6,000 solar generators for such devices.

In an ideal world you would chain 2 x 6,000 Wh generators together if you wanted to run air con units solely on solar. You will need a lot of solar panels if you want to recharge them as whole house air con units will drain your solar batteries as fast as ice melts in a steaming hot day. You are looking at at least a $20k set up right there.

Anyway, by analyzing the power consumption of your appliances, considering geographical variations, and referring to these tables, you can make informed decisions about the size of the solar generator needed to power your home appliances during an outage, and also to provide alternative or supplementary power.

Remember to look at the particular models product specifications and seek professional install advice for hooking it to the grid.

The Take Home

With the information provided in this article, you can confidently navigate the world of solar generators and make informed decisions about the size and type of generator that best suits your home. Embrace solar energy, and enjoy the benefits of a reliable and sustainable power source.

Solar generators offer an efficient, reliable, and eco-friendly solution for powering homes. By accurately assessing your power needs, selecting the right size, and considering temperature variables, you can find a solar generator that perfectly suits your requirements. Embrace the benefits of solar energy and take a step towards energy independence and a cleaner environment.

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Author: Kristoffer Tigue       Published:  9/27/2023    Inside Climate News

New York will become the latest state to require flood risk disclosures in home sales under a new law signed by Gov. Kathy Hochul on Friday. It’s the latest indicator that even places considered relatively insulated from the climate crisis, like the U.S. Northeast, are increasingly feeling its impacts.

The new law, which comes after a summer marked by record-breaking heat and precipitation around the globe, closes a loophole in state law that has allowed home sellers to pay a $500 fee to avoid disclosing their home’s flood risk, the Associated Press reports. The law also requires sellers to disclose additional information about flooding in their properties, such as whether the property is in a flood hazard area and if any flood insurance claims have been filed.

While the Northeast has been considered relatively safe from the effects of a warming world, New York and other states in the region have seen an increasing share of extreme weather events in recent years. In July, Vermont, New York and other Northeast states saw particularly heavy rain, causing catastrophic flooding that killed at least one person, washed out roads and bridges and damaged thousands of homes and businesses.

Last summer, parts of Rhode Island were overwhelmed by more than 10 inches of rain over a 24-hour period. And in what may be the most tragic storm to hit New York City since Superstorm Sandy, at least 13 people died in 2021 after remnants of Hurricane Ida inundated the city for days. Most of those deaths occurred in basements that were illegally converted into apartment units.

Those examples appear to align with the latest National Climate Assessment report, the federal government’s leading analysis on how global warming is affecting the country. It found that the Northeast region is seeing a greater increase of extreme rainfall compared to the rest of the country. It also found that sea-level rise in the region is three times greater than the global average.

“Make no mistake: This is our new normal,” Gov. Hochul wrote on social media, following the historic floods in July. “Our first responders are being asked to manage more weather events than ever before.”

New York’s new flood disclosure law also highlights the nation’s growing home insurance crisis. More and more Americans are finding it difficult to afford insurance on their homes after major insurers stopped offering  new plans in some of the states most affected by climate-driven disasters, including California, Florida and Louisiana. In fact, roughly 39 million U.S. properties—roughly a quarter of all homes in the country—are being underpriced for their climate risks, according to a report released last week by First Street Foundation.

Government-funded home insurance is in trouble, too. The National Flood Insurance Program, which provides flood protection for 5 million people who can’t access private insurance plans, is facing a $20 billion deficit, in large part because of increasingly frequent and intense extreme weather. Federal flood insurance premiums are projected to rise as high as 700 percent in the coming years, and Congress now faces a Sunday deadline to reauthorize the program or risks derailing thousands of real estate transactions.

It’s not just floods. The Northeast has also seen record-breaking heat, more intense flash droughts and even greater impacts from wildfires. In 2020, and then again this summer, wildfire smoke darkened the skies above New York City, even though the wildfires themselves were hundreds to thousands of miles away. Scientists say those trends will only become more common in the coming years as the climate warms.

Over the weekend, the remnants of Tropical Storm Ophelia churned northward along the East Coast, bringing heavy rain from North Carolina to New Jersey and prompting coastal flood alerts for nearly nine million people. In New York City, officials urged residents living in basement apartments to seek higher ground.”While the warmer summer days are behind us, New Yorkers should take precautions regarding the forecast for high winds and rain during our first fall weekend,” said Zach Iscol, the city’s emergency management commissioner, in a press release. “We are still in the middle of Atlantic Hurricane season and it is a great time to review your preparedness plan for your home or business, especially if you live in flood-prone areas.”

New York will become the latest state to require flood risk disclosures in home sales under a new law signed by Gov. Kathy Hochul on Friday. It’s the latest indicator that even places considered relatively insulated from the climate crisis, like the U.S. Northeast, are increasingly feeling its impacts.

The new law, which comes after a summer marked by record-breaking heat and precipitation around the globe, closes a loophole in state law that has allowed home sellers to pay a $500 fee to avoid disclosing their home’s flood risk, the Associated Press reports. The law also requires sellers to disclose additional information about flooding in their properties, such as if any flood insurance claims have been filed and whether the property is in a flood hazard area.

While the Northeast has been considered relatively safe from the effects of a warming world, New York and other states in the region have seen an increasing share of extreme weather events in recent years. In July, Vermont, New York and other Northeast states saw particularly heavy rain, causing catastrophic flooding that killed at least one person, washed out roads and bridges and damaged thousands of homes and businesses.

Last summer, parts of Rhode Island were overwhelmed by more than 10 inches of rain over a 24-hour period. And in what may be the most tragic storm to hit New York City since Superstorm Sandy, at least 13 people died in 2021 after remnants of Hurricane Ida inundated the city for days. Eleven of those deaths occurred in basements that were illegally converted into apartment units.

Those examples appear to align with the latest National Climate Assessment report, the federal government’s leading analysis on how global warming is affecting the country. It found that the Northeast region is seeing a greater increase of extreme rainfall compared to the rest of the country. It also found that sea-level rise in the region is three times greater than the global average.

“Make no mistake: This is our new normal,” Gov. Hochul wrote on social media, following the historic floods in July. “Our first responders are being asked to manage more weather events than ever before.”

New York’s new flood disclosure law also highlights the nation’s growing home insurance crisis. More and more Americans are finding it difficult to afford insurance on their homes after major insurers stopped offering  new plans in some of the states most affected by climate-driven disasters, including California, Florida and Louisiana. In fact, roughly 39 million U.S. properties—roughly a quarter of all homes in the country—are being underpriced for their climate risks, according to a report released last week by First Street Foundation.

Government-funded home insurance is in trouble, too. The National Flood Insurance Program, which provides flood protection for 5 million people who can’t access private insurance plans, is facing a $20 billion deficit, in large part because of increasingly frequent and intense extreme weather. Federal flood insurance premiums are projected to rise as high as 700 percent in the coming years, and Congress now faces a Sunday deadline to reauthorize the program or it risks derailing thousands of real estate transactions.

It’s not just floods. The Northeast has also seen record-breaking heat, more intense flash droughts and even greater impacts from wildfires. In 2020, and then again this summer, wildfire smoke darkened the skies above New York City, even though the wildfires themselves were hundreds to thousands of miles away. Scientists say those trends will only become more common in the coming years as the climate warms.

Over the weekend, the remnants of Tropical Storm Ophelia churned northward along the East Coast, bringing heavy rain from North Carolina to New Jersey and prompting coastal flood alerts for nearly nine million people. In New York City, officials urged residents living in basement apartments to seek higher ground.

“While the warmer summer days are behind us, New Yorkers should take precautions regarding the forecast for high winds and rain during our first fall weekend,” said Zach Iscol, the city’s emergency management commissioner, in a press release. “We are still in the middle of Atlantic Hurricane season and it is a great time to review your preparedness plan for your home or business, especially if you live in flood-prone areas.”

More Top Climate News

Young Climate Activists Challenging 32 Governments Will Get Their Day in Court: Six young adults and children from Portugal, who accuse 32 European governments of violating their human rights for what they say is a failure to adequately address climate change, are set to see their day in court Wednesday, Barry Hatton and Helene Alves report for the Associated Press. It’s the first climate change case filed with the European Court of Human Rights, which can exact hefty fines on its member nations, with the potential to compel nations to significantly slash emissions and build a clean energy economy.

US Wildland Fighters Are Hitting a Pay Cliff at the Worst Time: Tensions over wages for federal wildland firefighters are rising, and arguably at the worst time, as the nation deals with some of the worst fire seasons on record, Kyle Stock reports for Bloomberg. On Sept. 30, federal provisions that were implemented to help attract and retain firefighters by guaranteeing certain wage increases, a base pay of $15 an hour and other benefits, are set to expire. If Congress declines to extend pay increases, experts warn of a major exodus of frontline workers ahead of next spring’s fire season.

After Summer’s Extreme Weather, More Americans Now Blame Climate Change: A new poll found that about three-quarters of Americans said they’ve recently experienced extreme weather and believe climate change is partly to blame, Tammy Webber and Linley Sanders report for the Associated Press. The polling, which comes after a summer packed with disasters, also found that roughly 9 out of 10 Americans, or 87 percent, say they’ve experienced at least one extreme weather event in the past five years—up from 79 percent in April.

Author: Larry Gilmore       Published:  9/27.2023       Clear Blue Capital

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Author:  US DOE  Staff   Published: 9/27/2023     DOE Office of Economic Impact and Diversity 

DON’T MISS OUT!

Author: Maryland AG Press   Published: 9/27/2023     Maryland Attorney General

BALTIMORE, MD – Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown led a coalition of 22 Attorneys General, along with Washington D.C. Attorney General Brian L. Schwalb and Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond, in submitting comments urging congressional leaders to advance the SAFER Banking Act of 2023 to lift banking restrictions that prevent state-licensed cannabis businesses from accessing a full range of regulated banking and financial services.

Despite the growing number of states who have legally authorized, regulated cannabis businesses, including Maryland, cannabis remains classified as an illegal substance under the federal Controlled Substances Act and certain federal banking statutes. Because cannabis remains classified as an illegal substance, banks providing services to state-licensed cannabis dispensaries and related businesses are at risk for criminal and civil liability. This risk has significantly inhibited the ability of financial institutions to provide services to regulated cannabis operators and leaves those businesses struggling to find financing. The lack of access to banking services creates both barriers to entry into the industry and instability for existing businesses. In addition, the current banking restrictions constrict state agencies’ effort to collect taxes and conduct oversight.  Further, as too many states have seen, when regulated businesses can only conduct business in cash, employees and customers are at greater risk of violent crime in pursuit of that cash. 

“Legal cannabis businesses should have access to funding that provides them opportunities equal to other industries to grow, contribute to the economy, and create new jobs. This is particularly important for small, minority-owned, and women-owned businesses, which have faced disproportionately high barriers to accessing funding,” said Attorney General Brown. “Just like any other business, the cannabis industry cannot operate safely, transparently, or effectively without access to financial services. Without the SAFER Banking Act, we are setting up these businesses to fail, and opportunities for Marylanders will be lost.”

The Attorneys General argue that passage of the SAFER Banking Act, which will enable regulated banks and financial institutions to provide services to state-licensed cannabis businesses, will enable economic growth, facilitate state oversight of tax obligations, and reduce the public safety risks associated with high-value, cash-based businesses.  The SAFER Banking Act would establish a safe harbor for depository institutions providing a financial product or service to a regulated business in states that have regulations to ensure accountability in the cannabis industry.

The Attorneys General argue that an effective safe harbor would bring billions of dollars into the banking sector, enabling law enforcement, federal, state, and local tax agencies, and cannabis regulators in thirty-eight states and several territories to more effectively monitor and ensure compliance of cannabis businesses and their transactions.

Joining the Maryland, Washington D.C., and Oklahoma–led comments are the Attorneys General of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Massachusetts, Maine, Michigan, New Jersey, New Mexico, Nevada, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington.

https://www.marylandattorneygeneral.gov/press/2023/092723.pdf

US DOE Staff      Published: 9/27/2023    EERE

Author: US DOE  Staff         Published: 9/27/2023       EERE

EERE Funding Opportunities

Author: US DOE SETO  Staff        Published: 7/12/22       SETO

Launched in May 2021, SolarAPP+ is a web-based platform that automates solar permitting for local governments and permitting authorities. To date, the platform is active in nearly 20 jurisdictions and has processed more than 7,600 permits across the country. Join us on Thursday, July 21 from 1-2 p.m. ET for a webinar hosted by International Code Council that will discuss SolarAPP+’s growth in 2021. It will feature a panel discussion with U.S. Department of Energy officials, researchers from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), and the Mayor of Phoenix, Arizona about the impact SolarAPP+ has in communities across the country. Today, NREL published a report highlighting the impact of SolarAPP+ in its first year of operation. Researchers found that a typical SolarAPP+ project completes the full process—permit application to passed inspection—about 13 days sooner than a traditional project, based on a comparison of median timelines. That has enabled the installation of 42,241 kilowatts of new residential solar. Register for the webinar to learn more about how SolarAPP+ can benefit your community.

Author: US DOE Staff              Published: 7/12/2022            DOE

Equity Action Plan_Letterhead.pdf“ on Dropbox.

Equity Action Plan_Letterhead.pdf” on Dropbox.

Equity Action Plan_Letterhead.pdf” on Dropbox.

View file

Executive Summary

 The Department of Energy (hereinafter DOE or the Department) is responsible for ensuring the Nation’s security and prosperity by addressing its energy, environmental and nuclear challenges through transformative science and technology solutions. DOE maintains the Nation’s nuclear weapons stockpile, reduces the threat of nuclear proliferation, oversees the Nation’s energy supply, leads the Nation in areas of federally sponsored basic research critical to U.S. innovation and international competitiveness, carries out the environmental clean-up from the Cold War nuclear mission and maintains those sites, and operates17National Laboratories.

The Department’s mission areas touch upon equity and provide an opportunity to advance justice. From the households grappling with issues of energy burden and energy insecurity, to the universities advancingbasic research with Department funds and the business and community-based organizations that partner with DOE to deliveron its mission, the Department has an extraordinary reach. Executive Order(EO)13985, Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities Through the Federal Government, provides an opportunity for the Department to examine its internal processes and programs to ensure that the agency eliminates barriers to access; transform programs and policies to open even broader pathways for underrepresented groups to access DOE resources; and stand up new programs to better servecommunities.EO13985provides an opportunity for the Department to continually strive for equity across its mission areas. Moreover, these actions and on going efforts will position DOE as acritical partner with in an all-of-government approach to tackling the climate crisis. EO13985—focused on equity within the Department’s functions and programs—dovetails with the Department’s efforts to ensure that 40% of the benefits of its clean energy, energy efficiency, and climate programs flow to underserved communities (theJustice40 Initiative)and provides the blueprint for delivering on the historic Justice40 Initiative.

In implementing EO 13985,the Secretary’s Advisor on Equity(SAE) first stood up an Executive Steering Committee comprised of senior leaders from across the DOE complex. The Executive Steering Committee then embarked on a year long, comprehensive process to assess the whole of DOE’s activities in the following areas: Procurement, Financial Assistance, Research and Development(R&D), Demonstration and Deployment(D&D);and Stakeholder Engagement. The Executive Steering Committee members led six teams comprised of over 150 DOE staff and managers representing a diverse cross-section of DOE programs and support functions. Each Working Group then provided its top priorities, which were based on an in-depth assessment of barriers to accessing DOE programs.From that list of priorities, the SAE determined the following top five Departmental priority actions to advance equity at DOE:1)Address broad gaps in data collection to facilitatedata-informeddecision-making.2)Increase opportunities for new entrants in DOE acquisition (i.e., procurement and financial assistance).

Author: Black – Economic-Alliance   Published: 12/3/2020

Please Click On Link :

Black-Economic-Alliance-2020-Policy-Summary-and-White-Paper (1)

Published: July 26, 2018 Plug In America

Author: Jillian Hishaw  June 21st, 2018 Newfoodeconomy.org

Today, in a second vote, the House passed its messy version of the farm bill. As this legislative skirmish gobbles up the headlines, remember that the Senate quietly passed its own version out of committee earlier this month—one that includes a plan to legalize hemp production.

1. Where can I obtain help with paying my heating and electric bills?
The Office of Home Energy Programs (OHEP) is available to help consumers
who need help with paying their winter heating and/or yearly electric bills.
Consumers may apply for the Maryland Energy Assistance Program (MEAP) for
help with their heating bill (gas, electric or oil). Payments are made directly to
your fuel provider or utility company one time per year. In addition, consumers
may apply for the Electric Universal Service Program (EUSP). This program
provides assistance dollars that are applied to reduce future electric bills. The
consumer is required to participate in budget billing to receive this grant. The
grant is available once per program year. In addition, consumers may be eligible
for help with past due electric bills provided they had not received arrearage
retirement within the past seven years. To obtain more information, including the
income eligibility requirements, contact OHEP.
In addition, consumers may contact the Fuel Fund of Maryland. The Fuel Fund
pays a portion of an eligible customer’s outstanding bill and you are responsible
for paying the rest. You must have received all other government and program
help first before contacting Fuel Fund. Households can receive help from Fuel
Fund once every 12 months.
2. If I receive a termination notice, what help can I obtain from the Office of
External Relations (OER)?
If you receive a termination notice, you must first contact the utility company to
request an extension and/or a payment arrangement. Often if you contact the
utility before the notice expires, the utility will try to work with you as long as
you are able to make a reasonable offer to pay what you owe. If the utility is not
willing to give you an extension and/or payment arrangement, then you can
contact OER for assistance.
OER is not a consumer advocacy office. OER will try to assist you with
obtaining an additional extension or payment arrangement. However, you are
required to tell OER how you intend to pay on your past due bill in addition to
keeping up on current charges. OER will refer you to the OHEP, Fuel Fund and
may suggest additional places for you to contact.
3. How do I contact OER?
OER staff is available to assist you Monday through Friday, except holidays,
between 9 a.m.-Noon and 1-4 p.m. To reach OER call toll-free at 1-800-492-
0474, option #3 then press #1or call (410) 767-8028, press #1.
You can also file an online request for an extension and/or payment arrangement
through our website.
4. My gas and/or electric service has been turned off – what should I do?
If you gas and/or electric service has been turned off, the first thing you should do
is contact the utility to find out what they are requiring as payment to have them
restore your service. The utility by law can require that you pay the entire past
due bill, a reconnection fee, and part of a deposit as a condition to restore your
service. If you are unable to pay the amount the utility is requiring that you pay,
you should seek assistance from the Office of Home Energy Programs (OHEP)
first. If you qualify for assistance, your Maryland Energy Assistance Program
(MEAP) grant can be used to pay off your arrearage. In addition, you should
apply for the Electric Universal Service Program (EUSP). This program provides
assistance dollars that are applied to reduce future electric bills. You are required
to participate in budget billing to receive this grant. In addition, you may be
eligible for help with past due electric bills provided you had not received
arrearage retirement within the past seven years. Finally, you should apply for the
Utility Service Protection Program (USPP). As a USPP participant, you can have
your service reconnected between November 1 and March 31 without paying a
reconnection fee and deposit. To obtain more information about these programs,
including the income eligibility requirements, contact OHEP.
After you applied for these grants and if you still do not have enough to get the
service reconnected, you should contact the Fuel Fund of Maryland. The Fuel
Fund pays a portion of an eligible customer’s outstanding bill and you are
responsible for paying the rest. You must have received all other government and
program help first before contacting Fuel Fund. Households can receive help
from Fuel Fund once every 12 months.
Additional referral information is provided

Posted on May 19, 2018 by EVAofDC

As part of the VW settlement, Electrify America and its partner SemaConnect are taking applications, first-come, first-served, for grants that cover installation, purchase and maintenance of charging in Multi-family housing (condos, apartments, townhouses, etc) and Workplaces, in the Washington DC area.

Grants are available for up to $75,000 for multi-family charging and for up to $100,000 for workplace charging, including:

1. Capital Expenditures
2. Operating Expenditures
3. Network Services – Through 12/31/2026
4. Warranty Services – Through 12/31/2026

In other words, a turn-key solution enabling EV and PHEV drivers to charge successfully at home and work.

Given the abundance of multi-family housing in the Washington DC area, EVADC often hears from folks living in apartments, town-homes, condos, etc, that they would consider buying EV’s and PHEV’s if they only had home charging, in a similar fashion to the way single-family homeowners do.  Here’s your chance to get a first-class Level 2 (about 30 miles of range added per hour of charging) installation at your apartment, condo or town-home.  This is the type of charging in the majority of single-family homes

The “Charging Pyramid”.  Cars spend most of their lives parked at home.

To get started , first review the SemaConnect website at https://www.semaconnect.com/ea/

Review the information in the Multifamily or Workplace pages, then contact  either Joseph Inglisa jinglisa@semaconnect.com or

Jesus Ferro jesus.ferro@semaconnect.com

or call SemaConnect directly at 800-663-5633.  Joseph or Jesus will assist you determining the next step in the application process.

Remember that VW wants to find multifamily and workplace charging sites.  They are required to to find appropriate sites and spend their money as part of the diesel settlement.  This is a great opportunity to address the vital need for multifamily and workplace charging in the Washington DC area!  Take advantage of it!

U.S. Department of Education: July 2, 2018

Mark your calendars!

 Expanding the Baltimore Solar Initiative to HBCU Campuses and Communities

Regional Roundtable Discussion

Wednesday, July 25, 2018

Morgan State University

Earl Richardson Library Boardroom

1700 E Cold Spring Lane, Baltimore, MD 21251

11:00AM – 1:00PM

Registration: Email – hbcucleanenergycoalition@gmail.com

Published:U.S._Department_of_Education: June 28,2018

The National Museum of American History (NMAH) provides experiential learning internships in a variety of fields (i.e., public relations, exhibition research, and project design).  Interns learn from knowledgeable mentors and are exposed to enrichment activities ranging from behind-the-scenes collection tours, career readiness workshops, director’s talks, and field trips. The deadline for submitting applications is July 1, 2018 for both summer and fall internships.

There are currently four different programs to select from in the Smithsonian Online Academic Appointment system (SOLAA) https://solaa.si.edu/solaa/#/public:

1. NMAH Development Internship (External Affairs) Program – For more information click on: http://americanhistory.si.edu/getinvolved/internship/opportunities/development
2. NMAH Special Events Internship (External Affairs) Program – For more information click on: http://americanhistory.si.edu/getinvolved/internship/opportunities/special-events
3. NMAH Office of Communications & Marketing Program – For more information click on: http://americanhistory.si.edu/getinvolved/internship/opportunities/public-affairsoffice-communications-marketing
4. NMAH Internship Program – http://americanhistory.si.edu/getinvolved/internship.  This selection is for all other internship projects outside of External Affairs and Communications & Marketing (i.e., Curatorial Projects; Archives Center; Conservation; Public Programs – Daily Programs, Programs in African American History, Programs in Latino History; Graphic Production; Exhibition Design and more!).

The central Smithsonian Office of Fellowships and Internships (www.smithsonianofi.com) has paid internship opportunities that students can apply to and receive funding while being placed with a project at the NMAH.

A few of those programs are listed, below:

• Anne R. and G. Wayne Clough Internship – https://www.smithsonianofi.com/anne-r-and-g-wayne-clough-internship/
• James E. Webb Internship for Minority Undergraduate Juniors and Graduate Students in Business and Public Administration https://www.smithsonianofi.com/internship-opportunities/james-e-webb-internship/
• Katzenberger Foundation Art History Internship – https://www.smithsonianofi.com/internship-opportunities/katzenberger-art-history-internship/
• Minority Awards Program – Internship and Visiting Student – https://www.smithsonianofi.com/minority-internship-program/
• Native American Awards Program – Internship – https://www.smithsonianofi.com/internship-opportunities/native-american-internship-awards/
• Go to www.smithsonianofi.com for deadlines and other information.

If HBCUs are interested in organizing an informational session with the NMAH, please contact: NMAHintern@si.edu.

The White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities