Bicyclists don’t need no stinkin’ tax breaks

From an article by Bill Berry in The Capital Times:

STEVENS POINT – As long as various groups are seeking relief from onerous and burdensome taxes, why don’t we have a tax break for bicycle commuters?

Many of us in this category have commuted to and from work for decades. OK, let’s be honest. We feel sorry for the poor souls trapped in motor vehicles. They look so forlorn and detached from the world around them. Bicycle commuters, on the other hand, have no choice but to be attuned and aware, with 2,000-pound monsters all around us.

Frankly, biking to and from work is the best part of the job. In a city like this one, a brisk morning ride through residential neighborhoods is a gift not to be underrated. There are birds and gardens and tidy lawns along the way. The bustling rail yards that bisect the city are full of sights and sounds. . . .

On second thought, forget it. We get enough benefits anyway. We’re not a bunch of fat-cat beggars looking to skirt our civic responsibilities. We’re doing our part, and we already know we’re getting a better deal by hopping on a two-wheeler. We already save money by biking. We arrive at work fit, awake and ready for the day’s tasks.

We don’t need no stinkin’ tax breaks. . . .

Westfield first in DNR green program

From an article by Jen McCoy in the Portage Daily Register:

Because the Westfield School District continues to demonstrate a high level ecological stewardship, it became the first school to enroll into a state program dedicated to superior environmental performance among businesses.

"For a school district to say, ‘We're going to start managing our full environmental footstep,' that's a big step," said Mark McDermid, cooperative environmental assistance bureau director for the Department of Natural Resources.

Westfield applied for and was accepted into Wisconsin's Green Tier program, run under the DNR, which encourages businesses to move beyond regulatory compliance and promote superior environmental performance. About 30 businesses are in the program.

"We got recognized for what we already achieved, and we're going to prove what we can accomplish in the future," said Scott Peterson, district transportation director.

In 2008, the district began producing biodiesel for district transportation needs from oil donated by local restaurants and businesses. The biodiesel reduced emissions by about 70 percent compared with petro-diesel and saved the district at least $100,000. To further reduce waste, the district turns glycerin, a byproduct of the biodiesel production process, into earth-friendly hand and laundry soaps sold in area stores, such as Pierce's in Portage.

Workshops, keynoters, and all the other details set for Enrgy Fair, June 18-20

Each year the MREA Energy Fair transforms rural Central Wisconsin into the global hot spot for renewable energy education. The Energy Fair brings over 20,000 people from nearly every state in the U.S. and several countries around the world to learn, connect with others and ready them for action at home. The Energy Fair is the nation's longest running energy education event of its kind.

The Energy Fair features:

•Over 275 exhibitors - sustainable living and energy products
•Over 200 workshops - from introductory level to advanced hands-on education
•Clean Energy Car Show - demonstration vehicles and workshops
•Green Home Pavilion - focused on building and remodeling in a sustainable way
•Green Building Demso - see sustainable building techniques in action
•Sustainable Tables - workshops, chef demos, and a farmers' market bringing sustainability to your dinner table
•Inspirational keynotes, lively entertainment, great food, and local beer.
The Energy Fair is held in Custer, WI just seven miles east of Stevens Point. Join us for the 21st Annual Energy Fair June 18-20, 2010. For more information about the Fair, contact the Midwest Renewable Energy Association at 715-592-6595.

Clean Energy Jobs Act bill includes low carbon fuel standard

From a question-and-answer summary of the Low Carbon Fuels Standard included in the Clean Energy Jobs Act bill written by Peter Taglia, Staff Scientist, for Clean Wisconsin:

The Clean Energy Jobs Act (SB 450 and AB 649), announced recently by Governor Doyle, has been introduced by both houses of the Wisconsin legislature. The bill incorporates many of the recommendations made by the governor's Climate Change Task Force. The Clean Energy Jobs Act, if adopted, will increase Wisconsin's use of renewable energy, energy efficiency, cleaner fuels and cleaner cars. The Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) in the bill would be established based on recommendations currently under development by a broad stakeholder group of the Midwestern Governors Association (MGA).

Below are a series of answers to frequently asked question about how an LCFS will impact biofuels and oil sands (compiled by Pete Taglia of Clean Wisconsin and member of the Midwestern Governors Association’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard Advisory Group). If you have questions about the LCFS you can contact Pete Taglia at ptaglia@cleanwisconsin.org.

Question: What is a Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS)?

A LCFS is a fuel policy that will help break our dependence on foreign sources of oil and promote energy independence by gradually moving Wisconsin toward the cleanest and most efficient sources of transportation fuels. A LCFS rates different types of transportation fuels by their efficiency and carbon footprint and allows fuel providers to choose what mix of fuels will be used to meet the requirement.

Question: What types of fuels qualify for an LCFS?

An LCFS policy is unique in that all transportation fuels are able to compete in the fuel market, including the following resources:
• Ethanol: Alcohol fuel made from corn or cellulose (wood, plant stalks, harvest residues, etc.). Wisconsin has 8 corn ethanol plants producing almost 500 million gallons per year.
• Biodiesel: A diesel substitute (mono alkl ester) made from vegetable and animal oils that is then mixed with petroleum diesel (e.g., B20 is 20% biodiesel). Wisconsin has 8 biodiesel plants that use soybean oil, waste animal fats, and waste grease feedstocks.
• Renewable diesel: A fuel chemically similar to petroleum diesel (a hydrocarbon fuel) but made with renewable resources such as wood waste. Flambeau River Biofuels in Park Falls and New Page in Wisconsin Rapids both received Department of Energy grants to produce renewable diesel from wood waste.
• Compressed Natural Gas (CNG): Wisconsin has approximately 20 CNG fueling stations and two school district bus systems that use natural gas. ANGI Energy Systems of Milton is a leading manufacturer of CNG fueling systems and Wisconsin leads the nation in the production of biogas from dairy manure and food wastes.
• Electricity: Wisconsin has numerous electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid vehicles as part of state, utility and private car fleets. Wisconsin’s largest corporation, Johnson Controls, is a leading battery manufacturer that won a recent contract to supply batteries to Ford’s new electric van and Columbia Parcar of Reedsburg manufacturers a line of electric utility vehicles in WI.

Marshfield Utilities adds a plug-in hybrid utility truck

From an article on Electric Light and Power:

Waukesha, WI – Marshfield and Plymouth Utilities, both headquartered in Wisconsin, are the first utilities in the state to own and add a Plug-In Hybrid Utility truck to their fleets. The units are available exclusively from two Wisconsin manufacturers Odyne Systems and DUECO, Inc.

Officials from Marshfield Utilities welcomed Wisconsin’s first Plug-In Hybrid Electric bucket truck delivered in May of this year. The Odyne Plug-in Hybrid Electric propulsion system minimizes fuel use (while driving) and emissions found in a typical bucket truck. When at a job site, batteries power all boom hydraulic functions and the climate control system for a full workday, without the use of the diesel engine. This means reduced noise from engine idle and elimination of any emissions while in electric mode.

Plymouth Utilities is the first utility nationwide to own a 4x4 Plug-in Hybrid Digger Derrick, a common piece of equipment used to dig holes and set electric poles by utility companies throughout the nation. This unit is a Terex C4047 with a full hydraulic control station at the pedestal. A foot throttle actuates the PHEV system, allowing the batteries system to turn on. The unit is equipped with a force option, only turning on the engine on if you need to dig in rough conditions.

Both the Marshfield and Plymouth Plug-in trucks are able to recharge their battery system at night by using off-peak energy from the electricity their own utility produces.

Design, manufacture and assembly for both the Marshfield and Plymouth trucks was done in Waukesha, WI, “We are excited our local utilities have chosen Odyne and DUECO to manufacture the first two Hybrid Plug-in work trucks in the state.” states Judie Taylor, president of DUECO. “It shows Wisconsin’s strong environmental commitment to enhance fuel economy and reduce emissions.”

Clunkers program nears end

From an Associated Press article by Dan Strumpf and Ken Thomas in The Capital Times:

WASHINGTON -- The Obama administration is developing plans to wind down the popular Cash for Clunkers program and could announce by Friday when the incentives will no longer be available.

Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said Wednesday the department would announce within 48 hours how it intends to discontinue the program that offers car buyers rebates of $3,500 or $4,500 for trading in older vehicles for new, more fuel-efficient models. Department officials met with car dealer trade groups on Wednesday to discuss how the program will eventually end and respond to complaints over a backlog of rebate payments to dealers.

Through early Wednesday, auto dealers have made deals worth $1.81 billion and are on pace to exhaust the program's $3 billion in funds in early September. The incentives have generated more than 435,000 vehicle sales but dealers want a clear plan on when the rebates will no longer be available so they don't end up on the hook for any of the incentives.

"We want to make sure that dealers know when we're getting close" to running out of the money that was allocated for the program, LaHood told reporters. LaHood said he recognized that "dealers are frustrated. They're going to get their money."

Program restarts: Badgers love 'Clunkers' cash

From an article by Mike Ivey in The Capital Times:

The experts continue to debate the pros and cons of the "Cash for Clunkers" rebate program, but Wisconsin car buyers have already given it a big thumbs-up.

Wisconsin is 10th in the amount of cash requested from the program based on figures from the U.S. Department of Transportation released this week.

Of the nearly $775 million in clunker cash requests so far, more than $24 million came from Wisconsin. Michigan, California and Ohio were the top three states.

The U.S. Senate has approved another $2 billion for the program, which was initially funded with $1 billion.

Officially known as the Car Allowance Rebate System Act, the measure provides up to $4,500 in taxpayer subsidy for those who trade in an old vehicle for a more efficient model. To qualify, the old car needs to get 18 miles per gallon or less while the new one must get at least 22 mpg.

Too popular Cash for Clunkers suspended

From an article in the Wisconsin State Journal:

WASHINGTON — The government plans to suspend its popular "cash for clunkers" program amid concerns it could quickly use up the $1 billion in rebates for new car purchases, congressional officials said Thursday.

The Transportation Department called lawmakers’ offices to alert them to the decision to suspend the program at midnight Thursday. The program offers owners of old cars and trucks $3,500 or $4,500 toward a new, more fuel-efficient vehicle. . . .

A White House official said later that officials were assessing the situation facing the popular program but auto dealers and consumers should have confidence that transactions under the program that already have taken place would be honored. . . .

Congress last month approved the Car Allowance Rebate System program, known as CARS, to boost auto sales and remove some inefficient cars and trucks from the roads. The program kicked off July 24 and was heavily publicized by car companies and auto dealers.

Through late Wednesday, 22,782 vehicles had been purchased through the program and nearly $96 million had been spent. But dealers raised concerns about large backlogs in the processing of the deals in the government system, prompting the suspension.

Cash for Clunkers kicks off

From a news release issued by the U.S. Department of Transportation:

U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today kicked off a buyer incentive program designed to help consumers purchase new fuel efficient vehicles and boost the economy at the same time. The Car Allowance Rebate System (CARS), commonly referred to as Cash for Clunkers, is a new federal program that gives buyers up to $4,500 towards a new, more environmentally-friendly vehicle when they trade-in their old gas guzzling cars or trucks.

“With this program, we are giving the auto industry a shot in the arm and struggling consumers can get rid of their gas-guzzlers and buy a more reliable, fuel-efficient vehicle,” Secretary LaHood said. “This is good news for our economy, the environment and consumers’ pocketbooks.”

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also released the final eligibility requirements to participate in the program. Under the CARS program, consumers receive a $3,500 or $4,500 discount from a car dealer when they trade in their old vehicle and purchase or lease a new, qualifying vehicle. In order to be eligible for the program, the trade-in passenger vehicle must: be manufactured less than 25 years before the date it is traded in; have a combined city/highway fuel economy of 18 miles per gallon or less; be in drivable condition; and be continuously insured and registered to the same owner for the full year before the trade-in. Transactions must be made between now and November 1, 2009 or until the money runs out.

The vehicle that is traded in will be scrapped. NHTSA estimates the program could take approximately 250,000 vehicles that are not fuel efficient off the road.

Dealer hopes electric scooters will take off

From an article by Nick Paulson in the Stevens Point Journal:

A dealership in Stevens Point has become one of four in the state to sell a tailpipe emission free, electric scooter.

Laszewski & Sons began carrying the VX-1, made by Vectrix, this year after noticing an increased interest in electric vehicles because of rising gas prices and a growing interest in thinking green.

The VX-1 still leaves some carbon footprint when charging, but its 36 grams per kilometer emission is less than half of similar scooters, or about a quarter the emissions of a Toyota Prius, according to Vectrix's Web site.

"We were looking at the market, and we think this is what the future holds," said Vice President Scott Laszewski.

The scooter is completely electric. Just plug it into a standard wall outlet and it takes about two hours for an 80 percent charge, and three to five hours for a full charge.

Depending on driving conditions, a charge can get up to 60 miles. The scooter is approved for freeway use and can reach around 60 mph. A motorcycle license is required to drive one.

Wisconsin ridesharing Web site goes statewide

A news release from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation:

Any commuter in Wisconsin who would like to find someone to “share the ride” to work, may now access the Wisconsin Department of Transportation’s (WisDOT’s) interactive ride matching service online. A program that was originated several years ago for residents of the heavily populated southeastern region of the state is now available statewide.

“We are pleased to offer this interactive service to commuters across the state,” said WisDOT Secretary Frank Busalacchi. “Ridesharing saves money for commuters, reduces the number of cars on the road during the busiest hours of the day and reduces pollution from car exhaust. Now, commuters in areas that are faced with some of the longest commutes will have an equal opportunity to find carpool matches.”

Karen Schmiechen, program manager for the Wisconsin Rideshare Program, said the program is easy to use, free and without obligation. Commuters enter their commute information and immediately receive matches for carpooling, vanpooling, park and ride lots and even biking. The computer shows matches with similar commutes and work hours. Bikers are also matched by level of expertise. Users make their own contacts with matches to set up ridesharing arrangements.

The program was computerized two years ago, and has become so popular WisDOT decided to make it available to all state residents.

Wisconsin is one of many states and municipalities across the country offering this service. As gasoline prices fluctuate, and the economy remains unstable, ridesharing is a viable alternative, saving dollars and the environment.

For more information go to the state’s Rideshare Web site.

Electric-vehicle approval not yet put to the test in Wausau

From an article by D.J. Slater in the Wausau Daily Herald:

A new city ordinance has allowed people to drive electric vehicles in Wausau for nearly two months, but you'd be hard-pressed to find one on the streets.

Two city residents who jointly own one of the cars haven't taken it out since the ordinance took effect. And fewer than 100 of the vehicles are registered statewide.

Jim Sweo and Tracy Riehle bought their neighborhood electric vehicle in the summer of 2007, when gasoline prices soared past $3 a gallon. Since then, gas has dropped to about $2 a gallon, and the two owners have been using their gasoline-powered cars.

Riehle said the weather, not the gas-price drop, has encouraged her to keep using her regular vehicle. The NEV can get through snow, but not as effectively as a regular car. After the snow melts, Riehle plans to start using the electric vehicle for in-town errands, such as dropping her children off at school and picking up groceries.

"With my business, I've been really busy," said Riehle, who owns Snow Services, a snow-removal company. "I really didn't get a chance to use it. Now, with it getting warmer out, I'll start using it again."

Riehle was driving the vehicle the past two summers until she found out it was illegal to do so on city streets. The City Council passed an ordinance Jan. 13 allowing electric vehicles on most city streets with speed limits 35 mph or lower.

Electric cars run on several 12-volt batteries that are recharged through a standard household 110-volt outlet. The cars take between six to eight hours to charge and can travel between 30 to 35 miles on a full charge.

In 2007, the electric vehicle saved Riehle about $1,500 in fuel costs, she said. While she uses electricity to charge the car, she said she hasn't noticed a significant increase in her monthly electric bill.

The NEV doesn't require the normal maintenance needed for other cars, such as oil changes. Riehle's car comfortably seats four people and has plastic windows wrapped around the vehicle, providing a 360-degree view of the street when driving.

Central Wisconsin villages, city review ordinances to deal with wind, solar power

From an article by Brian Reisinger in the Wausau Daily Herald:

Alternative energy is something officials in the Wausau area say they want to encourage among residents, but properly regulating such technology remains uncharted territory.

From wind turbines to solar panels to electric cars, enabling the use of alternative energy comes with benefits and challenges.

Kelly Warren, a volunteer with Wausau's Commission for a Greener Tomorrow, said energy alternatives only will be feasible if people and government scale back consumption.

"The first thing should always be to conserve," he said.

In the meantime, local governments are addressing the issue to varying degrees.

Weston's Village Board could consider an ordinance Monday that identifies wind as an important resource while placing height and other restrictions on turbines.

Administrator Dean Zuleger wants the village to foster such alternatives, possibly by using money from business development districts.

"You have to be willing to be forward-thinking with those folks in the business community that want to give that a shot," Zuleger said.