A new web-based tool named the “Global Calculator” is designed to interactively raise awareness of looming climate change impacts. A lack of swift and meaningful action on behalf of the international community to implement global mitigation and adaptation strategies is expected to increase the severity of these climate change impacts. An accompanying report with insights from the Global Calculator… Keep reading →
It’s unusual when a documentary film on air pollution becomes a blockbuster hit, but that’s exactly what’s happened with “Under the Dome,” a film produced about energy and environmental issues in China. Released online on Saturday, the 100-minute film has already racked up more than 150 million views on Youku, China’s YouTube equivalent. That’s equal to… Keep reading →
Ahead of the new European Commission’s highly anticipated publication of “proposals on a more closely-linked single energy market” in the first quarter of 2015 as part of a drive to loosen Europe’s energy dependence on Russia, leaked non-papers drawn up by governments of EU member states on the topic are being circulated in Brussels, according… Keep reading →
It appears there is a possibility that President Obama could veto congressional legislation that pushes for Keystone XL pipeline construction, but ultimately approve the project anyway. This is because a key piece of the puzzle is a Nebraska Supreme Court decision. “If Nebraska were to bless a pipeline route, the State Department could finish its… Keep reading →
The ensuing Republican majority in both Houses of Congress following the 2014 Mid-Term election leaves President Obama in a precarious position regarding healthcare reform, foreign policy and economic recovery. But it is U.S. energy policy that could have the most tangible long-term effect on American society. Since securing re-election in 2012, Obama has taken significant… Keep reading →
Power prices for electricity generated from wind and solar technology have dramatically decreased over the past 5 years to the point where wind and solar are cheaper than gas or coal in parts of the US. In some places it also appears renewable energy sources can beat fossil fuels on price without subsidies, although renewable… Keep reading →
Those in the energy business might want to steer clear of the news these days – and not because environmental problems and liberal opposition are continuing to cause their normal heartaches for the industry. From the New York Times to the Financial Times and every outlet in between, the headlines are dire. “Falling Oil Price Raises Questions… Keep reading →
Well, if you have a 401 (k), IRA or pension, then chances are US oil and gas company stock is part of that investment strategy. According to a study released today, 65.5% of US-based oil and gas company shares are owned by individual investors mostly as part of pension funds or retirement accounts. The study… Keep reading →
Photo credit Texas State Comptroller Susan Combs is no fan of the Texas wind energy sector. The state has the largest wind capacity in the U.S., but Combs doesn’t seem to see the benefit of subsidizing wind energy; indeed, her office released a report that details the tax breaks given to wind power and recommends that they… Keep reading →
Editorial: Fossil Fuel Divestment is a Diversion from Real Solutions
By Dr. Roger MeinersMany people believe fossil fuels cause climate change. The science of that issue is not settled and, as an economist, I am not qualified to address multi-decade climatology. However, for those who believe public policy should address the matter, the strategy of attacking fossil fuel companies is profoundly wrong. As a part of the campaign,… Keep reading →