News Bytes
Energy Office’s 2009 Annual Report AvailableThe Nebraska Energy Office issued its 2009 Annual Report in February 2010. The Report, provides a detailed account of state energy use and trends over the last fiscal year as well as agency activities and expenditures.
Annual Reports from prior years are listed at the Energy Office's Annual Report Archive web page.
University of Nebraska Institute Issues Energy Report
In February 2010, the University of Nebraska Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources issued At Work For Nebraska, A Report to Our Partners: Energy. The publication contains articles on energy issues related to Nebraska agriculture including algae biofuels, corn ethanol, wind energy, alternative oilseed crops and carbon sequestration research.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Gives Green Home Tips
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has created a new web site to assist homeowners, buyers, and renters in finding and maintaining a green home.
The Green Homes site, pinpoints places where residents can reduce energy waste through efficient energy and water usage, renewable energy, green home building materials, household products, and recycling from home construction and household activities. Other parts of the home analyzed for energy and water efficiency opportunities include the kitchen, bathroom, living room, office, laundry room, basement, garage, attic, roof and yard. For those in the market to buy or build a home, the site also gives advice on how to select the most environmentally friendly location.
The Web site front page gives a diagram of a typical home layout, and visitors can click on any room to find out about different energy savings options. Choosing the bedroom, for example, brings a page that recommends an array of Energy Star electronics, gives information on different green furnishings, and illustrates what to look for in choosing the flooring.
A checklist of options to make a rental property energy and water efficient is also offered, as well as an overview on how to convince landlords to help green their properties.