ETC Piteå Signs Research Agreement with NREL

Energitekniskt Centrum (ETC) in Piteå has signed a joint renewable energy research agreement with the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) to develop a new mathematical model that describes how biomass is converted thermally to synthesis gas, which in turn can be converted to fuel or chemicals.

The funding comes from the Swedish Energy Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy under the Swedish-American Science and Technology Agreement signed in 2006.

Photo: inl.gov

City of Stockholm and Vattenfall to Acquire 14 000 Electric Vehicles

In a couple of months, the City of Stockholm and Swedish energy company Vattenfall will begin one of the world’s largest procurements of electric vehicles. Vattenfall and Stockholm represent more than 100 Swedish companies and municipalities that have pledged to acquire 12 000 to 14 000 electric vehicles in the next four years.

So far a large number of electric car manufacturers have been in touch with the City of Stockholm, for example Volvo Cars, Nissan, Fiat, Mitsubishi and Think.

Photo: inel.gov

President Obama Challenges Americans in Honor of the 40th Anniversary of Earth Day

President Obama today challenged Americans to take action in their homes, communities, schools, or businesses to improve the environment in honor of the upcoming 40th Anniversary of Earth Day, April 22, 2010. In conjunction with a video message of President Obama, the White House unveiled WhiteHouse.gov/EarthDay as a resource guide for all those interested in learning how they can help make a difference in their community. Read more.

No Swedish Tariff Increase on Ethanol

On Monday, the EU approved Sweden's application for permission to continue to import ethanol for processing into biofuel. This means the feared tariff increase of over 30 per cent that would have followed from a negative decision, and would have affected the 89 000 car owners who drive ethanol cars, will not materialize.