Showing posts with label energy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label energy. Show all posts
Video: Naked Bike Ride Hits London Streets
The World Naked Bike Ride hit London yesterday.
If the Queen had looked out of her window from Buckingham Palace she would have seen would have seen over a thousand people on bikes stripped bare singing to the Queen on her Official Birthday.
We doubt that she took notice.
The event in London was part of the World Naked Bike Ride which involves 70 events in 20 countries held mostly from June to September. The idea is to draw attention to the value of pedal power as opposed to fossil fuel and to remind motorists to be attentive to cyclists' safety.
The video above is from the last year's London event.
Christie Unveils Energy Blueprint For NJ
Governor Chris Christie yesterday released the State’s draft 2011 Energy Master Plan (EMP), a greener and more affordable vision for the use, management, and development of energy in New Jersey over the next decade and beyond. The draft EMP establishes a path for the Administration to manage energy in a way that promotes renewable sources of energy, saves money, stimulates the economy and job creation, and protects the environment.
“This plan represents my Administration’s commitment to changing the way we produce, distribute and use energy as part of a broader emphasis on renewable sources of energy and economic growth,” said Governor Chris Christie. “The EMP supports the development of new energy-related technologies such as fuel cells, off shore wind, and alternatively fueled vehicles while encouraging the developers, providers and support businesses related to these technologies, to locate here in New Jersey.”Governor Christie continued, “Furthermore, considering our state has some of the highest energy rates in the nation, reducing these rates and making them comparable to costs in other regions and states are important steps in facilitating economic growth and lowering the cost of living for New Jerseyans.”
“This plan supports enhanced reliability, lower energy costs and environmental protection in New Jersey,” said Lee A. Solomon, President of the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities. “It balances the needs of ratepayers with the State’s policy goals of promoting the state’s economic well being while safeguarding its air, water and land.”
The plan encompasses five overarching goals which work to drive down the cost of energy for all customers while promoting clean, environmentally safe renewable sources of energy:
Promoting a Diverse Portfolio of New, Clean, In-State Generation
· Expanding electricity generation resources to improve reliability and to lower costs, consistent with protecting the environment and growing the economy. Renewable energy resources, distributed generation, and clean conventional generation projects can help New Jersey flourish while protecting the environment.
o Constructing new generation and improving Pennsylvania-New Jersey-Maryland Interconnection, LLC. (PJM ) rules and processes;
o Assessing the implications of lost nuclear capacity;
o Expanding Distributed Generation (DG) and Combined Heat and Power (CHP);
o Supporting behind-the-meter renewables;
o Promoting effective use of biomass and waste-to-energy; and
o Promoting the safe expansion of the interstate natural gas pipeline system.
Creating a Realistic Path to Achieving a Renewable Energy Portfolio Standard of 22.5% by 2021
· New Jersey is committed to meeting the targets for renewable energy production which is an important part of the state’s long-term strategy.
o Building upon the Christie Administration’s commitment to solar energy for both economic and environmental benefits;
o Expanding implementation of commercial and industrial solar projects;
o Promoting the development of large solar generation projects on brownfield sites and landfills to offset the costs to cap or remediate these sites;
o Promoting development of solar to assist local governments reduce energy costs; and
o Maintaining support for offshore wind by codifying the statutory requirements of the Offshore Wind Economic Development Act (OWEDA). This provides a framework for setting offshore wind renewable energy certificate (OREC) prices and for approving applications to facilitate the financing of offshore wind projects; and
o Saying no to new coal-fired generation in New Jersey.
Rewarding Energy Efficiency, Energy Conservation and Cost Effective Renewable Resources
· New Jersey’s electric ratepayers pay the fourth-highest retail rates in the United States. Focusing on energy efficiency and conservation will help lower costs while promoting environmentally sound energy use at the same time. New Jersey’s array of energy efficiency and conservation programs and CHP programs are a cost-effective way to reduce energy costs and carbon emissions.
o Reducing peak demand and lowering capacity costs;
o Promoting energy efficiency and demand reduction in State buildings;
o Incorporating aggressive energy efficiency in building codes;
o Redesigning the delivery of State energy efficiency programs;
o Monitoring PJM’s Demand Response Initiatives;
o Improving natural gas energy efficiency; and
o Expanding energy conservation education and outreach to assist consumers in reducing usage.
Capitalizing on Emerging Technologies for Transportation and Power Production
· Support the Development of Innovative Energy Technologies. New Jersey has many options to develop new, clean, cost-effective sources of electricity, utilize fuels more efficiently, and decrease reliance on gasoline and diesel fuel as the primary transportation fuels. Not only will new energy technologies reduce emissions of air pollutants and greenhouse gases, but active support of innovative energy technologies will help create jobs and business development across the state.
o Improving transportation efficiency;
o Reducing carbon emissions and pollutants;
o Using fuel cell technology;
o Using energy storage technologies;
o Assessing smart grid demonstrations; and
o Considering Dynamic Pricing and Smart Metering.
Encouraging Economic Development and Job Growth
· This plan aims to develop and manage energy in a manner that saves money, stimulates the economy and creates high-quality renewable energy industry jobs.
o Supporting the development of new energy-related technologies such as fuel cells, offshore wind, and alternatively fueled vehicles;
o Reducing the cost of energy for all ratepayers (individuals and businesses);
o Encouraging energy efficiency at all levels (from homeowner to businesses and state government) thus reducing overall energy demand and helping to reduce costs; and
o Facilitating the development of new and innovative businesses that will provide and support the next generation of energy technologies and related businesses through the New Jersey Business Incubator Network.
The BPU will continue to serve as the lead implementing agency for the Energy Master Plan and will hold three public hearings on the draft EMP. In doing so, the BPU will coordinate with appropriate state agencies, energy providers and other stakeholders; track and report on progress through annual reporting to the Governor and posts to the BPU and EMP websites; and work with the legislature to develop or modify existing and future programs that support these energy goals.
In April 2010, Governor Christie directed the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities to revisit the EMP in light of economic conditions. The process included internal BPU Task Force Meetings, Stakeholder meetings around the state on various issues related to the plan, and extensive consultations with Rutgers University’s Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy, Center for Energy, Economic, and Environmental Policy.
A full copy of the State’s 2011 Draft Energy Master Plan can be found here: http://nj.gov/emp/
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“This plan represents my Administration’s commitment to changing the way we produce, distribute and use energy as part of a broader emphasis on renewable sources of energy and economic growth,” said Governor Chris Christie. “The EMP supports the development of new energy-related technologies such as fuel cells, off shore wind, and alternatively fueled vehicles while encouraging the developers, providers and support businesses related to these technologies, to locate here in New Jersey.”Governor Christie continued, “Furthermore, considering our state has some of the highest energy rates in the nation, reducing these rates and making them comparable to costs in other regions and states are important steps in facilitating economic growth and lowering the cost of living for New Jerseyans.”
“This plan supports enhanced reliability, lower energy costs and environmental protection in New Jersey,” said Lee A. Solomon, President of the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities. “It balances the needs of ratepayers with the State’s policy goals of promoting the state’s economic well being while safeguarding its air, water and land.”
The plan encompasses five overarching goals which work to drive down the cost of energy for all customers while promoting clean, environmentally safe renewable sources of energy:
Promoting a Diverse Portfolio of New, Clean, In-State Generation
· Expanding electricity generation resources to improve reliability and to lower costs, consistent with protecting the environment and growing the economy. Renewable energy resources, distributed generation, and clean conventional generation projects can help New Jersey flourish while protecting the environment.
o Constructing new generation and improving Pennsylvania-New Jersey-Maryland Interconnection, LLC. (PJM ) rules and processes;
o Assessing the implications of lost nuclear capacity;
o Expanding Distributed Generation (DG) and Combined Heat and Power (CHP);
o Supporting behind-the-meter renewables;
o Promoting effective use of biomass and waste-to-energy; and
o Promoting the safe expansion of the interstate natural gas pipeline system.
Creating a Realistic Path to Achieving a Renewable Energy Portfolio Standard of 22.5% by 2021
· New Jersey is committed to meeting the targets for renewable energy production which is an important part of the state’s long-term strategy.
o Building upon the Christie Administration’s commitment to solar energy for both economic and environmental benefits;
o Expanding implementation of commercial and industrial solar projects;
o Promoting the development of large solar generation projects on brownfield sites and landfills to offset the costs to cap or remediate these sites;
o Promoting development of solar to assist local governments reduce energy costs; and
o Maintaining support for offshore wind by codifying the statutory requirements of the Offshore Wind Economic Development Act (OWEDA). This provides a framework for setting offshore wind renewable energy certificate (OREC) prices and for approving applications to facilitate the financing of offshore wind projects; and
o Saying no to new coal-fired generation in New Jersey.
Rewarding Energy Efficiency, Energy Conservation and Cost Effective Renewable Resources
· New Jersey’s electric ratepayers pay the fourth-highest retail rates in the United States. Focusing on energy efficiency and conservation will help lower costs while promoting environmentally sound energy use at the same time. New Jersey’s array of energy efficiency and conservation programs and CHP programs are a cost-effective way to reduce energy costs and carbon emissions.
o Reducing peak demand and lowering capacity costs;
o Promoting energy efficiency and demand reduction in State buildings;
o Incorporating aggressive energy efficiency in building codes;
o Redesigning the delivery of State energy efficiency programs;
o Monitoring PJM’s Demand Response Initiatives;
o Improving natural gas energy efficiency; and
o Expanding energy conservation education and outreach to assist consumers in reducing usage.
Capitalizing on Emerging Technologies for Transportation and Power Production
· Support the Development of Innovative Energy Technologies. New Jersey has many options to develop new, clean, cost-effective sources of electricity, utilize fuels more efficiently, and decrease reliance on gasoline and diesel fuel as the primary transportation fuels. Not only will new energy technologies reduce emissions of air pollutants and greenhouse gases, but active support of innovative energy technologies will help create jobs and business development across the state.
o Improving transportation efficiency;
o Reducing carbon emissions and pollutants;
o Using fuel cell technology;
o Using energy storage technologies;
o Assessing smart grid demonstrations; and
o Considering Dynamic Pricing and Smart Metering.
Encouraging Economic Development and Job Growth
· This plan aims to develop and manage energy in a manner that saves money, stimulates the economy and creates high-quality renewable energy industry jobs.
o Supporting the development of new energy-related technologies such as fuel cells, offshore wind, and alternatively fueled vehicles;
o Reducing the cost of energy for all ratepayers (individuals and businesses);
o Encouraging energy efficiency at all levels (from homeowner to businesses and state government) thus reducing overall energy demand and helping to reduce costs; and
o Facilitating the development of new and innovative businesses that will provide and support the next generation of energy technologies and related businesses through the New Jersey Business Incubator Network.
The BPU will continue to serve as the lead implementing agency for the Energy Master Plan and will hold three public hearings on the draft EMP. In doing so, the BPU will coordinate with appropriate state agencies, energy providers and other stakeholders; track and report on progress through annual reporting to the Governor and posts to the BPU and EMP websites; and work with the legislature to develop or modify existing and future programs that support these energy goals.
In April 2010, Governor Christie directed the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities to revisit the EMP in light of economic conditions. The process included internal BPU Task Force Meetings, Stakeholder meetings around the state on various issues related to the plan, and extensive consultations with Rutgers University’s Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy, Center for Energy, Economic, and Environmental Policy.
A full copy of the State’s 2011 Draft Energy Master Plan can be found here: http://nj.gov/emp/
AFP To Protest NJ Greenhouse Gas Initiative, 6/8
Americans for Prosperity, New Jersey's leading free-market, grassroots organization, will lead a protest demonstration next Wednesday, June 8 at 12:00 noon outside the offices of the failing Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative. The protest will take place as the latest secretive auction of carbon permits is underway inside RGGI’s headquarters located at 90 Church Street (near Ground Zero).
Americans for Prosperity’s New Jersey chapter has led the fight against the clandestine Cap & Trade scheme for the past year leading to last week’s decision by New Jersey Governor Chris Christie to pull the Garden State out of what he termed was a “gimmicky” program that is “nothing more than a tax on electricity.”
“Governor Christie’s decision to withdraw New Jersey from the destructive and failing RGGI Cap & Trade program was a major blow to the regional scheme,” said AFP-NJ state director Steve Lonegan. “But that was not the end of this fight, nor the end of RGGI.”
“Americans for Prosperity’s thousands of citizen activists in New Jersey, New York and in the eight other states that are a part of this Cap & Trade scheme will not rest until RGGI is sent to the ash heap of history,” added Lonegan. “We will not rest until RGGI is completely rooted out and dismantled. That includes fully repealing RGGI in the New Jersey state Legislature and seeing that the other states also pull out of RGGI.”
“That’s why we will be leading hundreds of activists right to RGGI’s doorstep next Wednesday to demand that this sketchy, shadowy, job-destroying scheme be killed once and for all.”
For more information on the RGGI cap-and-trade program, please visit www.NoNJCapAndTrade.com. Also, visit Americans for Prosperity’s website here.
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Americans for Prosperity’s New Jersey chapter has led the fight against the clandestine Cap & Trade scheme for the past year leading to last week’s decision by New Jersey Governor Chris Christie to pull the Garden State out of what he termed was a “gimmicky” program that is “nothing more than a tax on electricity.”
“Governor Christie’s decision to withdraw New Jersey from the destructive and failing RGGI Cap & Trade program was a major blow to the regional scheme,” said AFP-NJ state director Steve Lonegan. “But that was not the end of this fight, nor the end of RGGI.”
“Americans for Prosperity’s thousands of citizen activists in New Jersey, New York and in the eight other states that are a part of this Cap & Trade scheme will not rest until RGGI is sent to the ash heap of history,” added Lonegan. “We will not rest until RGGI is completely rooted out and dismantled. That includes fully repealing RGGI in the New Jersey state Legislature and seeing that the other states also pull out of RGGI.”
“That’s why we will be leading hundreds of activists right to RGGI’s doorstep next Wednesday to demand that this sketchy, shadowy, job-destroying scheme be killed once and for all.”
For more information on the RGGI cap-and-trade program, please visit www.NoNJCapAndTrade.com. Also, visit Americans for Prosperity’s website here.
Lessons From An Abandoned Quarry
It's up in the mountains, down a long dirt road.
But no vehicles travel there now. You have to walk down the road yourself to get there.
And it all seems frozen in time.
The quarry, known during its operating days as the Chester-Hudson Quarry, played a key role in the early development of the Town of Becket (Mass.) and the surrounding area.
Granite from this quarry was used for monuments in many states. The quarry was operational from the 1860's to the 1960's.
When the quarry was abandoned, much of the equipment and structures were left just as it was (as if the quarrymen had gone for lunch and never returned). The site has stayed the same, plus some rust, until now.The Historic Quarry and Forest is open year round, dawn to dusk, and admission is free to the public. It's all part of the Becket Land Trust.
A self-guided tour is available at the historic quarry site. Beginning in the parking lot (the Gateway), visitors can continue up the access trail and pass numerous markers describing artifacts and objects including pieces of machinery, tools, trucks and buildings.
In addition, old rail beds that lie dormant, remind visitors of the time when the stone was transported down into the town of Chester for processing. A brochure containing helpful definitions and information about the tour can be found at the kiosk (located at the quarry entrance, throughout the Berkshires, at the Mullen House Education Center, and on this website. Also available is a separate trail map of the historic walk.
We talk the walk and examined the artifacts and the quarry site.
We found it to be eerily beautiful.
And the lessons?
Well, it all reminds us that our natural resources are finite.
So we must continue to explore and find new ways to gather new materials and reap the benefits of the earth while being mindful of our responsibility to the whole.
We cannot abandon our efforts the way the quarry was abandoned.
Nor can we freeze time, as the other-worldly nature of the abandoned quarry might suggest.
We must be adventurous. We must continue to take risks; to explore.
Always, we must move forward. Avanti!
Christie Welcomes NJ Wind Power Developers
Committed to moving New Jersey forward with an economic and environmental agenda that promotes clean and renewable energy, Governor Chris Christie today announced the opening of the Board of Public Utilities application process for prospective developers of offshore wind projects to be located in New Jersey waters. The announcement marks another first in the advancement of offshore wind power in the Garden State.
Governor Christie said, “The wind power movement is providing us with a unique opportunity to advance energy as industry. By doing so, we have the ability to leverage our tremendous resources with ground-breaking technologies, allowing New Jersey to increase its use of renewable energy sources while advancing an industry that will lead to long term job creation.”
To ensure New Jersey’s energy future and strengthen the state’s economy, Governor Christie has worked closely with federal agencies to speed implementation of 1,000 MW of wind turbines; joined with the federal government and fellow East Coast states to establish the Offshore Wind Consortium to promote commercial wind development on the Outer Continental Shelf of the East Coast; and has provided "areas of interest" to the U.S. Department of the Interior which this week issued a "call for nominations" for wind project leases off the Jersey coast, which could lead to construction of wind farms that would make New Jersey a leader in offshore wind energy.
In addition, the Offshore Wind Economic Development Act signed by Governor Christie last year provides financial incentives and tax credits to businesses that construct manufacturing, assembly and water access facilities that support qualified offshore wind projects. It also authorized creation of an Offshore Wind Renewable Energy Certificate (“OREC”) program and rules that developers must follow to obtain BPU approval, and to receive ORECs. Under these rules, developers are required to submit an application during the application cycle. Once an application is submitted, BPU staff will certify the completeness of the application, at which time the 180 day period to review the application will begin.
Other application information to be submitted for consideration includes: a detailed description of the project, construction plans, financing methods and analysis; proposed OREC pricing methods; a cost-benefit analysis; and operations, maintenance and safety plans. The cost-benefit analysis must demonstrate positive economic and environmental net benefits to the State.
An applicant’s cost-benefit analysis must provide three types of information:
1. An analysis of the potential impacts upon electricity rates of residential and industrial customers, over the life of the project.
2. Impacts on income, employment, wages, indirect business taxes, and output, with a particular emphasis on in-state manufacturing employment; and
3. Net environmental effects of the project.
Applicants must also demonstrate financial integrity and sufficient access to capital to allow for a reasonable expectation of project completion.
The application window, approved this afternoon by the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU), begins May 16 and closes on June 14, 2011.
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Governor Christie said, “The wind power movement is providing us with a unique opportunity to advance energy as industry. By doing so, we have the ability to leverage our tremendous resources with ground-breaking technologies, allowing New Jersey to increase its use of renewable energy sources while advancing an industry that will lead to long term job creation.”
To ensure New Jersey’s energy future and strengthen the state’s economy, Governor Christie has worked closely with federal agencies to speed implementation of 1,000 MW of wind turbines; joined with the federal government and fellow East Coast states to establish the Offshore Wind Consortium to promote commercial wind development on the Outer Continental Shelf of the East Coast; and has provided "areas of interest" to the U.S. Department of the Interior which this week issued a "call for nominations" for wind project leases off the Jersey coast, which could lead to construction of wind farms that would make New Jersey a leader in offshore wind energy.
In addition, the Offshore Wind Economic Development Act signed by Governor Christie last year provides financial incentives and tax credits to businesses that construct manufacturing, assembly and water access facilities that support qualified offshore wind projects. It also authorized creation of an Offshore Wind Renewable Energy Certificate (“OREC”) program and rules that developers must follow to obtain BPU approval, and to receive ORECs. Under these rules, developers are required to submit an application during the application cycle. Once an application is submitted, BPU staff will certify the completeness of the application, at which time the 180 day period to review the application will begin.
Other application information to be submitted for consideration includes: a detailed description of the project, construction plans, financing methods and analysis; proposed OREC pricing methods; a cost-benefit analysis; and operations, maintenance and safety plans. The cost-benefit analysis must demonstrate positive economic and environmental net benefits to the State.
An applicant’s cost-benefit analysis must provide three types of information:
1. An analysis of the potential impacts upon electricity rates of residential and industrial customers, over the life of the project.
2. Impacts on income, employment, wages, indirect business taxes, and output, with a particular emphasis on in-state manufacturing employment; and
3. Net environmental effects of the project.
Applicants must also demonstrate financial integrity and sufficient access to capital to allow for a reasonable expectation of project completion.
The application window, approved this afternoon by the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU), begins May 16 and closes on June 14, 2011.
Christie Video: How Dems Plan To Raise Gas Taxes
This spring, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie is leaner.
He's meaner.
And he's at the top of his game.
These town hall sessions are classic Christie -- an environment where the Governor is in his element.
This is a man who loves people -- and it shows. He gains enormous energy from ordinary citizens and taxpayers. He relates to them. He understands them. He knows how they live. He knows what's on their minds.
Why?
Because he's born-and-bred Jersey. He knows the counties, the towns, the neighborhoods, the people of his state. And he really listens to the people. He hears them, He gets it.
Here, Governor Christie discusses how legislative Democrats plan to increase gas taxes by as much as $2.4 billion at an Evesham town hall today, just outside of Philadelphia in South Jersey.
I repeat: Chris Christie is the most exciting, the most relevant, the most promising public servant in America today.
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He's meaner.
And he's at the top of his game.
These town hall sessions are classic Christie -- an environment where the Governor is in his element.
This is a man who loves people -- and it shows. He gains enormous energy from ordinary citizens and taxpayers. He relates to them. He understands them. He knows how they live. He knows what's on their minds.
Why?
Because he's born-and-bred Jersey. He knows the counties, the towns, the neighborhoods, the people of his state. And he really listens to the people. He hears them, He gets it.
Here, Governor Christie discusses how legislative Democrats plan to increase gas taxes by as much as $2.4 billion at an Evesham town hall today, just outside of Philadelphia in South Jersey.
I repeat: Chris Christie is the most exciting, the most relevant, the most promising public servant in America today.
More NJ Legislators Denounce RGGI
In a joint pnews conference with Americans for Prosperity held at historic Congress Hall in Cape May, New Jersey State Senator Jeff Van Drew (D-Cape May, Cumberland, Atlantic) announced his decision to support legislation that would end New Jersey’s participation in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) Cap & Trade scheme.
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The senator also revealed that his District 1 colleagues, Assemblymen Nelson T. Albano and Matthew Milam, have also formally signed on as co-sponsors of repeal legislation. Albano and Milam are the first Democrat legislators in the Assembly to join the repeal effort. Support for the legislation now stands at 47; 32 in the Assembly and 15 in the Senate.
In speaking today, Senator Van Drew decried the RGGI Cap & Trade program for worsening New Jersey’s economic climate and making the state less affordable for New Jersey residents and taxpayers.
“Without question everybody’s utility bill will increase,” said Van Drew. “Every business’ utility bill will increase. The cost of energy for everyone will increase and that’s working folks, poor folks, middle class folks, small businesses, large businesses, across the board their costs are going to go up.
“And when that happens it creates a problem. It creates a problem where businesses don’t want to locate in New Jersey. It creates a problem, again, where it becomes unaffordable for the people to live here.
“And, you know, there’s only so much that we can pick people’s pockets. The people in New Jersey pay high taxes, they pay high tolls, they pay high fees, in some instances they’re regulated to death. We just can’t do it anymore.”
AFP-NJ state director Steve Lonegan added that RGGI was a drain on the economy of South Jersey.
“We know how Atlantic City is struggling; how our shore communities are struggling and a big component of that is the cost of electricity. And that’s being driven by the RGGI program.
“And that’s why we will not stop until this Cap & Trade scheme is repealed.”
Sen. Diane Allen : Jersey Can't Afford RGGI
New Jersey State Senator Diane Allen (R- Burlington/Camden) has signed on as a cosponsor to S-2250, legislation repealing New Jersey's participation in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI). At a news conference announcing her support for the legislation, Senator Allen stressed the negative impact RGGI has on job creation, energy affordability, and taxes.
"New Jersey residents cannot afford this initiative- both in terms of the adverse impact it has on job creation as well as the cost to consumers," said Allen. "RGGI is effectively a tax placed on a service essential to families and businesses, at a time when our economy can least tolerate it. For the sake of the 9.3% of New Jersey workers who are unemployed and the countless families who are struggling mightily to get by in this recession, we need to repeal the law."
Senator Allen said she is particularly concerned about small businesses that are most vulnerable to increases in overhead costs. "As a former president and CEO of a small business, I can attest to the impact rising energy rates have on an employer's ability to add jobs and expand," she said. "Just ask Ocean Spray, which last week announced it will be moving its Bordentown processing facility to Pennsylvania, in large measure due to the costs associated with RGGI."
Senator Allen was joined by Senator Michael J. Doherty (R- Warren/Hunterdon), prime sponsor of the repeal legislation, and Steve Lonegan, state director of Americans for Prosperity. Senator Doherty's legislation enjoys bipartisan support from 44 legislative sponsors and co-sponsors.
"The cost of living in New Jersey is too high already," Allen stated. "State government should be working to make our state more affordable, not less."
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"New Jersey residents cannot afford this initiative- both in terms of the adverse impact it has on job creation as well as the cost to consumers," said Allen. "RGGI is effectively a tax placed on a service essential to families and businesses, at a time when our economy can least tolerate it. For the sake of the 9.3% of New Jersey workers who are unemployed and the countless families who are struggling mightily to get by in this recession, we need to repeal the law."
Senator Allen said she is particularly concerned about small businesses that are most vulnerable to increases in overhead costs. "As a former president and CEO of a small business, I can attest to the impact rising energy rates have on an employer's ability to add jobs and expand," she said. "Just ask Ocean Spray, which last week announced it will be moving its Bordentown processing facility to Pennsylvania, in large measure due to the costs associated with RGGI."
Senator Allen was joined by Senator Michael J. Doherty (R- Warren/Hunterdon), prime sponsor of the repeal legislation, and Steve Lonegan, state director of Americans for Prosperity. Senator Doherty's legislation enjoys bipartisan support from 44 legislative sponsors and co-sponsors.
"The cost of living in New Jersey is too high already," Allen stated. "State government should be working to make our state more affordable, not less."
Obama Wants Higher Gas Prices To Be New 'Norm'
Dan Gainor of the Media Research Center has a great commentary at Fox News about the rising price of gas and why it's happening now.
Here's an excerpt:
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Here's an excerpt:
When Obama took over in January 2009, gas was a "mere" $1.84 a gallon. Now, "mere" is what’s left in our wallets after filling up.
And it’s all deliberate.
It’s not your standard lefty war "about oil' conspiracy. There’s no grand cabal pumping up gas prices to the point where ordinary Americans can’t afford to drive.Click here to read the full column.
No. High gas prices are the natural result of a series of decisions by the Obama administration that are geared to hiking the cost of fuel, limiting how much we drive and controling one more asepct of Americans’ lives. Obama isn’t the only factor. Mideast politics, wars – including Obama’s new one in Libya – and global demand all have impact, too.
What’s more, this high price reflects what most of the left believe it should be and is thoroughly embraced by the elite media who know they’ll still be able to pull up to a pump and afford $50 or $75 for a fill-up.
Gas Price Continues To Climb -- Average Now $3.99
It's costing some drivers as much as $75 to $100 to fill up at the pump.
And the ever-rising price of a gallon of gas is creeping into the four dollar range.
In fact, according to AAA, the national average is $3.99. And now some analysts have predicted that gas could cost $5 per gallon in the summer months.
America's unwillingness to drill, mine, search and reap its own resources (sitting right under us) is costing us a higher and higher price every day. Meanwhile, zillions of dollars are being poured into pie-in-the-sky energy schemes that often seem to hold little promise of success.
What's wrong with this picture?!?
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And the ever-rising price of a gallon of gas is creeping into the four dollar range.
In fact, according to AAA, the national average is $3.99. And now some analysts have predicted that gas could cost $5 per gallon in the summer months.
America's unwillingness to drill, mine, search and reap its own resources (sitting right under us) is costing us a higher and higher price every day. Meanwhile, zillions of dollars are being poured into pie-in-the-sky energy schemes that often seem to hold little promise of success.
What's wrong with this picture?!?
Many More People Running Out Of Gas
Since the beginning of March, AAA has seen an 18 percent increase in the number of roadside calls for people running out of gas.
'Keep It Green' Likes Christie Budget
Members of the Keep It Green Coalition (KIG) reacted favorably to New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie’s proposed 2012 budget, which provides a modest increase in funds for the state Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), calls for an increase in parks and forestry appropriations and continues funding for several programs charged with protecting the state’s natural resources.
According to a release, "When state budget figures were released Tue., Feb. 22, it appeared that funding for the DEP was being cut by 9.8 percent. Due to the restructuring of the department’s debt service burden, which declined by nearly 90 percent, available funds for programs, staffing and operations actually would increase 5.3 percent, from $329.2 million to $346.9 million. No program or staffing cuts are proposed.
"In addition, $6.2 million in funding for the operations of the state’s parks and forests is being restored from the state’s general fund, assuring that all state parks will remain open. . . .
“New Jersey’s parks and natural areas are a smart investment,” said KIG chairman Tom Gilbert of the Trust for Public Land. “In these tough economic times, it is even more important for our citizens to have inexpensive places to recreate close to home, and parks provide that. Park improvement projects can also create jobs and help to revitalize struggling communities.”
Several sources of funding for environmental programs that in the past had been diverted to other purposes will be stabilized, restored or even increased in Gov. Christie’s budget. . . .
Tom Wells, director of government relations for The Nature Conservancy, stated that stabilization of funding for environmental protection was a move in the right direction. “In light of deep reductions over a period of many years in funding for DEP’s Division of Parks and Forestry, the proposed budget is a good first step,” he said. “The budget will begin to stabilize funding to protect and preserve New Jersey’s vast natural resources on which we all depend for clean water, clean air and outdoor recreation.”
"The commitment to parks funding was well received," the release stated, "even while advocates pointed to the need for greater long-term investments to address impacts from declining appropriations over the past two decades."
“We applaud the administration’s commitment to keep state parks open for the benefit of all residents of New Jersey,” said Gilbert. “However, the chronic lack of adequate funds to care for and maintain our parks and natural areas is severely undermining their ecological and recreational value. A long-term stable funding source is needed for the stewardship of these lands so that we can do more than keep the gates open.” . . .
KIG has long advocated for a stable, long-term source of funding that would provide reliable and adequate support to acquire, improve and maintain the parks, forests and watersheds that provide priceless benefits to all citizens.
“We are pleased that this Administration is taking a step in the right direction with this budget. We are glad to see that, combined with stabilizing funding for DEP, the Governor is moving steadily forward with the next round of funding for preservation of open space in response to the voter mandate of the 2009 Green Acres Bond Act,” said Kelly Mooij, NJ Keep it Green Coalition Coordinator. “These are lands that help to protect our water, conserve habitat and provide us with fresh, locally grown food and places to recreate. They are a vital part of what makes New Jersey attractive to residents and businesses and are an important part of the legacy we leave for our children and grandchildren.”
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According to a release, "When state budget figures were released Tue., Feb. 22, it appeared that funding for the DEP was being cut by 9.8 percent. Due to the restructuring of the department’s debt service burden, which declined by nearly 90 percent, available funds for programs, staffing and operations actually would increase 5.3 percent, from $329.2 million to $346.9 million. No program or staffing cuts are proposed.
"In addition, $6.2 million in funding for the operations of the state’s parks and forests is being restored from the state’s general fund, assuring that all state parks will remain open. . . .
“New Jersey’s parks and natural areas are a smart investment,” said KIG chairman Tom Gilbert of the Trust for Public Land. “In these tough economic times, it is even more important for our citizens to have inexpensive places to recreate close to home, and parks provide that. Park improvement projects can also create jobs and help to revitalize struggling communities.”
Several sources of funding for environmental programs that in the past had been diverted to other purposes will be stabilized, restored or even increased in Gov. Christie’s budget. . . .
Tom Wells, director of government relations for The Nature Conservancy, stated that stabilization of funding for environmental protection was a move in the right direction. “In light of deep reductions over a period of many years in funding for DEP’s Division of Parks and Forestry, the proposed budget is a good first step,” he said. “The budget will begin to stabilize funding to protect and preserve New Jersey’s vast natural resources on which we all depend for clean water, clean air and outdoor recreation.”
"The commitment to parks funding was well received," the release stated, "even while advocates pointed to the need for greater long-term investments to address impacts from declining appropriations over the past two decades."
“We applaud the administration’s commitment to keep state parks open for the benefit of all residents of New Jersey,” said Gilbert. “However, the chronic lack of adequate funds to care for and maintain our parks and natural areas is severely undermining their ecological and recreational value. A long-term stable funding source is needed for the stewardship of these lands so that we can do more than keep the gates open.” . . .
KIG has long advocated for a stable, long-term source of funding that would provide reliable and adequate support to acquire, improve and maintain the parks, forests and watersheds that provide priceless benefits to all citizens.
“We are pleased that this Administration is taking a step in the right direction with this budget. We are glad to see that, combined with stabilizing funding for DEP, the Governor is moving steadily forward with the next round of funding for preservation of open space in response to the voter mandate of the 2009 Green Acres Bond Act,” said Kelly Mooij, NJ Keep it Green Coalition Coordinator. “These are lands that help to protect our water, conserve habitat and provide us with fresh, locally grown food and places to recreate. They are a vital part of what makes New Jersey attractive to residents and businesses and are an important part of the legacy we leave for our children and grandchildren.”
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Christie Nixes Offshore Natural Gas Project
Further demonstrating his commitment to protect New Jersey's coastal waters and natural resources, Governor Chris Christie yesterday invoked his authority under the federal Deepwater Port Act, vetoing a proposed deepwater liquefied natural gas operation 16 miles off the coast of Asbury Park. The action prevents Liberty Natural Gas from constructing and operating its proposed offshore port to receive foreign vessels transporting liquid natural gas (LNG) to the U.S. for regassification.
"I take very seriously our obligation to protect the environmental health of our coastal waters,” said Governor Christie. “Offshore LNG poses unacceptable risks to the State's residents, natural resources, economy and security. We must ensure that our 126 miles of shoreline remain an economic driver for tourism and that our fishing and shellfish industries remain healthy and productive now and for future generations.”
As outlined in federal filings last September and October, the proposed deepwater port, at which the company would regasify liquefied natural gas for transport onshore, is only one component of Liberty Natural Gas' proposal. The project also would entail construction of a 9.2 mile onshore pipeline from Linden to Perth Amboy, and 44 miles of submerged pipeline designed to transport up to 2.4 billion cubic feet per day of natural gas from the deepwater port to shore.
"New Jersey has invested much time, energy and resources into encouraging renewable energy, and its commitment has made the State one of the leaders in the nation on this front,'' Governor Christie wrote in his veto letter to David Matsuda, Administrator of the federal Maritime Administration. "The Liberty Natural Gas project could stifle investment in renewable energy technologies by increasing reliance on foreign energy sources, which would undermine all of the progress made by New Jersey to promote sustainable energy.''
In addition to potential harmful impacts on recreational and commercial fishing, shellfisheries and tourism industries vital to the State's economy, other reasons for the Christie Administration's opposition to the Liberty Natural Gas proposal include its proximity to large population centers; potential discharges of harmful wastewater into the environment as well as increased homeland security demands on the U.S. Coast Guard and New Jersey's Homeland Security personnel to deal with potential environmental disasters and the disruption of port commerce.
"The Governor continues to prove his commitment to protecting our air, lands, waters and natural resources, and recognizes that the ocean is our most valued treasure,'' said DEP Commissioner Bob Martin. "This project just has too many unacceptable risks to our environment and to the safety and welfare of the State's residents.
Last year, Governor Christie announced his strong opposition to oil drilling off the New Jersey coast, and on Earth Day 2010 first publicly stated his opposition to allowing LNG facilities to be located off the State's coast.
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"I take very seriously our obligation to protect the environmental health of our coastal waters,” said Governor Christie. “Offshore LNG poses unacceptable risks to the State's residents, natural resources, economy and security. We must ensure that our 126 miles of shoreline remain an economic driver for tourism and that our fishing and shellfish industries remain healthy and productive now and for future generations.”
As outlined in federal filings last September and October, the proposed deepwater port, at which the company would regasify liquefied natural gas for transport onshore, is only one component of Liberty Natural Gas' proposal. The project also would entail construction of a 9.2 mile onshore pipeline from Linden to Perth Amboy, and 44 miles of submerged pipeline designed to transport up to 2.4 billion cubic feet per day of natural gas from the deepwater port to shore.
"New Jersey has invested much time, energy and resources into encouraging renewable energy, and its commitment has made the State one of the leaders in the nation on this front,'' Governor Christie wrote in his veto letter to David Matsuda, Administrator of the federal Maritime Administration. "The Liberty Natural Gas project could stifle investment in renewable energy technologies by increasing reliance on foreign energy sources, which would undermine all of the progress made by New Jersey to promote sustainable energy.''
In addition to potential harmful impacts on recreational and commercial fishing, shellfisheries and tourism industries vital to the State's economy, other reasons for the Christie Administration's opposition to the Liberty Natural Gas proposal include its proximity to large population centers; potential discharges of harmful wastewater into the environment as well as increased homeland security demands on the U.S. Coast Guard and New Jersey's Homeland Security personnel to deal with potential environmental disasters and the disruption of port commerce.
"The Governor continues to prove his commitment to protecting our air, lands, waters and natural resources, and recognizes that the ocean is our most valued treasure,'' said DEP Commissioner Bob Martin. "This project just has too many unacceptable risks to our environment and to the safety and welfare of the State's residents.
Last year, Governor Christie announced his strong opposition to oil drilling off the New Jersey coast, and on Earth Day 2010 first publicly stated his opposition to allowing LNG facilities to be located off the State's coast.
Those Energy-Saving Bulbs Ain't So Efficient
The Wall Street Journal is reporting that those new energy-saving compact fluorescent lamps aren't all they're cracked up to be.
The State of California has subsidized consumers' switch to the new lamps but it turns out that the super saving bulbs just don't seem to last as long as they're supposed to. And this, too: It's hard to predict and then measure energy saving.
Click here to read more about this.
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The State of California has subsidized consumers' switch to the new lamps but it turns out that the super saving bulbs just don't seem to last as long as they're supposed to. And this, too: It's hard to predict and then measure energy saving.
Click here to read more about this.
Economic Woes: Consumer Sentiment Plummets
More disheartening economic news: Consumer sentiment has slipped once again. People refuse to be optimistic about the economy as long as gas prices are surging, jobless figures remain high, the housing market fails to rebound and inflation fears abound.
A new survey's just-released preliminary reading on the overall consumer sentiment shows it has slipped to 72.7, below 74.5 in December. It also fell short of a 75.4 reading predicted by recently-polled economists.
No one should be surprised by this since average gasoline prices are stuck above $3 a gallon across the US. The survey's barometer of current economic conditions was reportedly 79.8 in early January, down from 85.3 in December and below a forecast of 84.6.
And here's the real whopper: The survey shows growing inflation fears. Its one-year inflation expectation rose from 3.0 percent in December to 3.3 percent now. This the highest showing on that barometer since October 2008.
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A new survey's just-released preliminary reading on the overall consumer sentiment shows it has slipped to 72.7, below 74.5 in December. It also fell short of a 75.4 reading predicted by recently-polled economists.
No one should be surprised by this since average gasoline prices are stuck above $3 a gallon across the US. The survey's barometer of current economic conditions was reportedly 79.8 in early January, down from 85.3 in December and below a forecast of 84.6.
And here's the real whopper: The survey shows growing inflation fears. Its one-year inflation expectation rose from 3.0 percent in December to 3.3 percent now. This the highest showing on that barometer since October 2008.
About Those Gas Prices; Whose Fault Now?
We're here in South Florida and here's what we've noticed as we travel about: the price of a gallon of regular grade gas is hovering around $3.30.
So the price of fuel at the pump has crept up and up and up.
And at the rate things are going,some people say that gas may even hit $4.00 per gallon by the time the summer vacation months roll around.
You heard that right: FOUR DOLLARS PER GALLON!
A few years back when gas prices crept upward the hew and cry from the Democrat Congress was ear-splitting and the daily barrage was endless. And the mainstream media joined in as well. And you know who Reid sand Pelosi and the media blamed. Yes, they blamed the then President and Vice President of the United States. And they said that the President and Vice President were way too cozy with big oil. And they blamed Halliburton as well.
But now that we have a different President and Vice President, Reid and Pelosi are silent. And the mainstream media have turned mute as well. They're not pointing fingers at the White House now. No, no --not a sound is heard.
But gas prices are every bit as high if not higher than they were then.
And now we have 10 percent unemployment and a far more severe economic situation than we had then. But not a peep is heard from Harry and Nancy and the mainstream media. And in fact neither Barack nor Joe are talking about it very much either.
But gas prices still keep going up.
And I ask you: Who,s fault is it now? Hmmmmm?
Read More...
So the price of fuel at the pump has crept up and up and up.
And at the rate things are going,some people say that gas may even hit $4.00 per gallon by the time the summer vacation months roll around.
You heard that right: FOUR DOLLARS PER GALLON!
A few years back when gas prices crept upward the hew and cry from the Democrat Congress was ear-splitting and the daily barrage was endless. And the mainstream media joined in as well. And you know who Reid sand Pelosi and the media blamed. Yes, they blamed the then President and Vice President of the United States. And they said that the President and Vice President were way too cozy with big oil. And they blamed Halliburton as well.
But now that we have a different President and Vice President, Reid and Pelosi are silent. And the mainstream media have turned mute as well. They're not pointing fingers at the White House now. No, no --not a sound is heard.
But gas prices are every bit as high if not higher than they were then.
And now we have 10 percent unemployment and a far more severe economic situation than we had then. But not a peep is heard from Harry and Nancy and the mainstream media. And in fact neither Barack nor Joe are talking about it very much either.
But gas prices still keep going up.
And I ask you: Who,s fault is it now? Hmmmmm?