Our What's New page displays what information has been recently added or updated at FedCenter.gov. Stop back here periodically to stay current on all recent activity at FedCenter. This information also is included in the newsletter.
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July 23, 2026
Since 2000, NOAA's Coral Reef Conservation Program has executed a multidisciplinary approach to managing and conserving coral reef ecosystems. The program focuses on resilience-based management, which will lead to thriving, diverse, resilient coral reefs that are able to sustain valuable ecosystem services for current and future generations.
This database maintains and generates data reports in specialized areas such as invasive and noxious species as well as threatened and endangered species.
A Federal Highway Administration monthly newsletter highlighting current environmental streamlining practices from around the country.
This dashboard displays the results of the most recent National Lakes Assessment (NLA) which evaluated the biological, chemical, physical, and recreational condition of lakes in the United States.
How's My Waterway is a tool that assembles publicly available water quality data into a user-friendly package that provides information on water quality in our nation's waters. Map-centric and mobile-friendly, How's My Waterway works on all different screen sizes, from desktop computers and tablets to mobile phones
VegSpec combines NRCS's Soil Survey Geographic database, NASA's weather database, USDA's PLANTS database, and science-based vegetation performance data to provide lists of species that are: (1) adapted to a specific site; (2) suitable for the selected practice (treatment); and (3) appropriate for the purpose(s) for which the planting is intended. Users may also generate seed mixes and estimated costs for their project.
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We are thrilled to invite you to the official launch webinar of Global Mangrove Watch 4.1!
The updated platform will now have more detail than ever before – empowering governments, investors, scientists, park managers, project planners and local communities to better protect, manage and restore the world's mangroves. Join us to learn from experts, walk through the new features, and hear from regional teams how they use the GMW locally.
July 22, 2026
Through the Sentinel Landscapes partnership, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), U.S. Department of Interior (DOI) and Department of Defense (DOD) will work together near military installations to help farmers and ranchers make improvements to the land that benefit their operation, enhance wildlife habitat, and enable DOD's training missions to continue.
A part of GSA's SFTool, this is a detailed repository of education and information about policies, strategies, case studies and tools developed in the process of greening their buildings and shared with the Interagency Sustainability Working Group (ISWG).
The Data Center Profiler (DC Pro) Tools are "early stage" profiling tools designed for data center owners and operators to diagnose how energy is being used by their data centers and determine ways to save energy and money.
This January 2017 EPA publication outlines more than 70 policies local government officials, staff, and boards can consider to help adapt to current or projected flooding and extreme precipitation, sea level rise and storm surge, extreme heat, drought, and wildfire. These policies range from modest adjustments to wholesale changes, giving communities a range of options to consider depending on their needs and context. The publication includes examples of communities implementing these policies, resources for more information, and metrics that communities could use taken from three community-scale sustainability rating systems.
This August 2018 EPA case study demonstrates the environmental and health benefits of green roofs for Kansas City, Missouri. The case study lays out a replicable analytical framework using free quantitative tools created by EPA and others that state and local decision-makers and practitioners can use to assess the multiple benefits of green roofs.
This clearinghouse provides statutorily-required information relating to high-performance buildings, including technical assistance, tools, and resources for implementing best practices
The AIA-CLF Embodied Carbon Toolkit for Architects serves to provide architects with an overview and the necessary steps to be taken to reduce embodied carbon in their projects. This website provides a quick overview of available tools for architects, engineers, and consultants to evaluate the environmental impacts of buildings and building materials using life cycle assessment. Some of these tools conduct whole building LCA (evaluation of a full building or systems) while others are calculators that focus on individual materials or assemblies.
This website provides a modern avian data management system approach to foster efficient, cost-effective and resilient conservation outcomes in support of the military mission. DoD database to store and explore avian-related data collected on DoD lands. Additionally, provides library of avian research protocols. The DoD AKN Program Team has been hard at work developing new tools for DoD professionals to integrate their avian data into the AKN. These include the 1) DoD AKN User Guide – which is a step-by-step User Guide to help you as you explore and create within your AKN Project and beyond. 2) Statement of Work Language for Avian Data in DoD Contracts and Agreements – which is language for DoD contracts and agreements to specify DoD ownership of data and the use of the AKN by contractors and/or cooperators. 3) DoD AKN Standard Sampling Methods – Species Checklist – which are standardized field sampling methods and AKN Protocols based on DoD's most common management and research needs. 4) Mission-Sensitive Species Profile and Recommended AKN Sampling Protocols – Pinyon Jay
The DoD AKN Team is continually working with DoD and non-DoD subject-matter-experts to review the best-available guidance for standardized field sampling methodologies for each Mission-Sensitive Species and ensuring those methods are translated to AKN Sampling Protocols to be used in your Project.
This online database provides information on pesticide-related incidents (both individually reported incidents and those submitted in aggregate) for the past 10 years. The database is updated every month to add the most recent month of incidents.
EPA has limited confidence in the accuracy and validity of the data because the data entries are reports of one or more individual's perspective of what happened. These perspectives can vary widely, and EPA needs to verify the legitimacy of a report before using it for regulatory decisions. Caution should be used when analyzing these data as EPA does not guarantee the completeness or adequacy of the contents of the Incident Data System.
This fact sheet compiles state-by-state evidence demonstrating the measurable economic returns of watershed protection across six benefit categories: drinking water treatment cost savings; natural hazard mitigation; recreation and tourism; subsistence hunting, fishing and foraging; quality of life and health; and property values. The fact sheet draws on peer-reviewed literature and studies published since the original 2012 publication to illustrate how nature-based solutions and healthy watersheds generate substantial, quantifiable returns that extend well beyond environmental outcomes.
July 21, 2026
Package Delivery (SIN 492110) includes domestic delivery for parcels and letters by local courier services and freight transportation. These services offer a variety of options for an agency to receive express shipments between any two points within the continental United States and Puerto Rico. The Multiple Award Schedule's simple ordering process helps agencies meet their domestic expedited and heavy weight shipping needs.
This annual report is part of the EPA's commitment to providing the public with transparent information about new light-duty vehicle GHG emissions, fuel economy, technology data, and auto manufacturers' performance in meeting the agency's GHG emissions standards. This report includes content previously published in two separate reports, the Light-Duty Automotive Technology, Carbon Dioxide Emissions, and Fuel Economy Trends Report, and the GHG Manufacturer Performance Report.
EPA's Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program (GHGRP) has released greenhouse gas data for the 2023 Reporting Year. Over 8,000 facilities and suppliers across the country report their annual GHG data to EPA each year.
This page provides an interactive fact sheet summarizing GHGRP emissions for the current year. Choose a state or EPA Region to view maps, charts, and tables summarizing emissions. Data download options are available at the bottom of the page.
Learn more about EPA's Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program and viewing published GHG data using EPA's GHGRP resources.
The EPA non-CO2 greenhouse gas (GHG) technical report series provides projected estimates of emissions and technical and economic mitigation estimates of non-CO2 GHGs from anthropogenic sources for 195 countries and for all 50 states in the U.S.
These non-CO2 GHG datasets provide information that can be used to understand national and sub-national contributions of GHG emissions and mitigation opportunities, and are of particular use to economic and integrated assessment models that evaluate the effect of GHG emissions and the cost and availability of mitigation from the non-CO2 GHG sectors.
Strengthening the Nation's Forests, Communities, and Local Economies
April 27, 2022
This EO directs federal agencies to pursue science-based, sustainable forest and land management; conserve America's mature and old-growth forests on Federal lands; invest in forest health and restoration; support indigenous traditional ecological knowledge and cultural and subsistence practices; honor Tribal treaty rights; and deploy climate-smart forestry practices and other nature-based solutions to improve the resilience of our lands, waters, wildlife, and communities in the face of increasing disturbances and chronic stress arising from climate impacts. This was revoked via Executive Order 14154, "Unleashing American Energy."
July 20, 2026
2011 Revision (Supersedes GAO-07-731G) [Reissued on January 20, 2012]. This document outlines standards that contain requirements for auditor reporting on internal control. While not specific to environmental compliance auditing, the processes and tools necessary for a high quality auditing program are detailed.
This 24 hour course provides information needed by personnel who generate hazardous waste to perform their duties safely and in compliance with legal and Navy policy standards. The RCRA regulation 40 CFR 262 establishes standards for HW generators.
Hazardous Waste Annual Refresher is an 8-hour course that provides hazardous waste workers with updated regulatory and technical information needed to perform their duties safely and in compliance with legal and Navy policy requirements.
This PDF training course is designed for water and wastewater employees responsible for emergency response and recovery activities. It also explains why and how to implement an all-hazards program.
EPA is hosting monthly webinars to share the Agency's progress on the e-Manifest initiative. For the current schedule of webinars and to be able to view past webinars, click on the link.
EPA has developed a series of educational videos designed to give the public information about air quality, health and lower-cost sensors. The videos are available in English and Spanish and can be used to learn how EPA collects and uses air quality data, how air quality health risks are communicated and how to interpret data collected using air sensors.
EPA's online database of land, air, and water information. This new Clearinghouse catalogues available funding, financing, and instructional resources to aid communities in their efforts to improve environmental conditions. The Clearinghouse expands on the concept of the original Water Finance Clearinghouse, launched in 2017, that served as the one-stop shop for communities researching ways to fund and finance their water infrastructure needs to assist in local decision-making. The new Clearinghouse includes over 1,800 funding and financing opportunities and information resources from EPA's air, water, and land programs. Communities can use this system to access information on funding and financing opportunities for environmental projects as well as financial research, such as case studies, white papers, and webinars.
This presentation will cover how to manage the impacts of fats, oil, and grease on the collection system and the WWTP. The webinar will also cover fees and permitting options for food service establishments (FSEs), public outreach options, and enforcement.
EPA Water Technical Assistance (WaterTA) connects communities to experts who help assess and implement solutions for their drinking water, sewage, and stormwater needs. EPA's free water technical assistance initiatives help communities identify their water challenges, develop plans, build capacity, and develop their application materials to access federal funding. The Tackling Emerging Contaminants initiative builds on EPA's robust suite of technical assistance programs and includes diagnostic water quality sampling and analysis, source water assessment, preliminary treatment design and evaluations, operational and sampling training, and identifying solutions to address emerging contaminants and PFAS contamination including community engagement and outreach support.
The Steel Tank Institute offers a variety of online and in-person trainings to help facilities maintain compliance with regulations regarding steel storage tanks. This includes inspector training, integrity management, and design and construction. Classes are both live and on-demand.
The NPDES permitting program offers training courses, workshops, and webinars to explain the regulatory framework and technical considerations of the NPDES permit program. These courses are designed for permit writers, dischargers, EPA officials, and other interested parties. These recorded presentations enable participants to review the material on demand in a self-paced environment.
Finalregs esa naturalresources threatenedspecies usfws downlist
USFWS are reclassifying the Hawaiian stilt (kukuluae'o or ae'o, Himantopus mexicanus knudseni; a subspecies of the black-necked stilt (Himantopus mexicanus)) from endangered to threatened (downlist) under the ESA. This action is based on our evaluation of the best scientific and commercial data available, which indicates that the subspecies' status has improved such that it is not in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range, but that it is still likely to become so within the foreseeable future. They also finalize protective regulations under the authority of section 4(d) of the Act that are necessary and advisable to provide for the conservation of the Hawaiian stilt. They recognize the Hawaiian names kukuluae'o and ae'o as additional common names. This rule is effective 19 August 2026. POC is Aaron Nadig, Deputy Field Supervisor, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Pacific Islands Fish and Wildlife Office; telephone 808-792-9400, aaron_nadig@fws.gov.
(Federal Register 20 July 2026 [Rule] Pages 45480-45513).
July 17, 2026
This EPA website provides information on which uses and/or manufacturing of asbestos is banned in the U.S.
All self-disclosed civil violations, with the exception of new owner disclosures, must be made through the eDisclosure portal. Although EPA is not modifying the substantive conditions in its Audit Policy or Small Business Compliance Policy, the eDisclosure portal streamlines and modernizes EPA's approach to handling disclosures under these two policies. The changes will result in faster and more efficient resolution of self-disclosures, while saving considerable time and resources for regulated entities and EPA.
The State Dashboard provides summary trends of EPA and state enforcement and compliance activity, such as how many inspections were performed, how may violations were identified, and how many enforcement actions were taken. It allows the public to see trends and allows EPA and states to review data quality and to see how states are doing with program implementation. The new platform provides a dynamic interface which allows users to customize their view to best examine the data and trends they are interested in. The Dashboard covers data for five program areas: Air, Drinking Water, Hazardous Waste, Pesticides, and NPDES.
The EPA's RCRA (Resource Conservation and Recovery Act) Public Involvement Toolkit provides a broad range of tools and activities that community involvement practitioners, permitting agencies, public interest groups, community leaders, and facility owners/operators can use to empower communities to become more actively involved in the permit and cleanup decision-making processes at hazardous waste management facilities. This resource complements the 2016 edition of the RCRA Public Participation Manual and was designed as an online resource to help users identify opportunities and methods for engagement throughout the RCRA public participation process.
Beginning in 2015, petroleum refineries were required to install air monitors around the perimeter of their facilities. Petroleum refineries must monitor benzene concentrations and report the results to EPA on a quarterly basis. The Dashboard improves public access to program data concerning benzene emissions along refinery fencelines and allows for a more detailed analysis of that data. Public access to this information advances public transparency and environmental justice.
EPA and states have partnered to develop a comprehensive list of Clean Water Act (CWA) violators. Reports include details on violations and enforcement activities by facility, and an annual report with summary compliance and enforcement information by state, tribe, and territory.
This is the 46th International Symposium of the North American Lake Management Society (NALMS), taking place November 3–6, 2026, in Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada. The conference brings together scientists, environmental managers, policymakers, consultants, watershed organizations, and community stakeholders to share the latest research and practical approaches for protecting and managing lakes, reservoirs, and their watersheds. The 2026 theme, "Swimming Upstream: Tackling Environmental Challenges through Partnership, Innovation, & Science," reflects a focus on addressing water resource challenges through collaboration and evidence-based management. Kelowna, located in one of Canada's most water-scarce regions, provides a fitting backdrop for discussions on climate change, watershed resilience, and sustainable water use.
July 16, 2026
Thousands of American workers use solvents every day in industrial, commercial, and other non-residential settings. Many of these solvents become hazardous wastes when they can no longer be used for their intended purpose and are discarded. A hazardous waste must be managed safely from its point of generation through recycling or disposal. When one of your solvents can no longer be used, it is your responsibility to determine whether it is a hazardous waste. The purpose of this guide is to make people who use and discard solvents aware of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) hazardous waste regulations and assist them in making correct hazardous waste determinations for solvents.
The Retail Strategy lays out a cohesive and effective plan to address the unique challenges the retail sector has with complying with the hazardous waste regulations while reducing burden and protecting human health and the environment.
This "Model Permit" is a guide to help permit writers draft and review RCRA permit conditions for incorporation into a RCRA hazardous waste permit. Using language that is based on best example language from actual permits that has been vetted by subject matter experts, including legal and enforcement experts, should reduce the time to issue permits, promote national consistency, and result in clearer, more readily implementable, enforceable permit conditions.
The EPA is making corrections to the New Source Performance Standards Review for Stationary Combustion Turbines and Stationary Gas Turbines final rule ("Final NSPS Rule") that published in the Federal Register (FR) on 15 January 2026, and became effective on 15 January 2026. After publication, the EPA identified inadvertent technical and typographical errors in the Federal Register regulatory text and is correcting those errors. Effective on 17 August 2026. POC is John Ashley, Industrial Processing and Power Division (D243-02), 109 T.W. Alexander Drive, P.O. Box 12055, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711; telephone number: (919) 541-1458; and email address: ashley.john@epa.gov. (Federal Register 16 July 2026 [Rule] Pages 43561-43569).
July 15, 2026
The final interpretation is that the plain language and structure of certain sections of the operating permits regulations (40 CFR 70 and 71) do not provide an independent basis for requiring or authorizing review and enhancement of existing monitoring in title V permits. EPA believes that
other rules establish a basis for such review and enhancement. The final rule interpretation is effective on 16 January 2007. POC is Peter Westlin, EPA, Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards, Mail code: D243-05, 109 TW
Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711; telephone: (919) 541-1058; fax number (919) 541-1039; e-mail address: westlin.peter@epa.gov (Federal Register: December 15, 2006 [Rules and Regulations] , Page 75422-75431)
While written for MS4 permit writers and aficionados, each compendium has examples of permits with some provisions that include green infrastructure. The first two compendia ("Six Minimum Control Measure Provisions" and "Post-Construction Standards") feature examples from existing MS4 permits of clear, specific and measurable requirements. For Part 3, "Water Quality-Based Requirements" EPA reviewed existing state and EPA permits and identified different ways of implementing TMDLs through quantitative requirements or pollutant-specific management measures such as green infrastructure, or a combination of both.
This seminar provides an overview of operations and maintenance best practices with a focus on corrective, preventive, and predictive infrastructure requirements and commissioning for existing buildings.
This web tool helps federal facility managers and resilience planners understand the cost of an electric grid outage. Users enter site characteristics and critical load information into the tool, then estimate the types of outage costs they may incur--from immediate losses to costs that accumulate each hour the power is out. The FEMP-sponsored CDF Calculator provides essential data for those tasked with justifying the benefit of resilience investments for their facilities. The calculation baselines the cost of inaction to help facility managers understand the value of resilience solutions, such as redundant systems or enhanced energy security.
This webinar series is part of the DOE EVGrid Assist: Accelerating the Transition initiative. It aims to support decision makers by providing timely information on a wide range of topics important to the integration of electric vehicles and the grid.
This session introduces ESTCP EW-201142 which focused on the development and demonstration of Energy Performance Monitoring and Optimization (EPMO) system that generates optimal control schedules by integrating various energy management tools with weather, sensor, and metering data. Project technical objectives and key technical components are introduced first. Then, the demonstrations in Buildings 7113 and 7114 at Naval Training Center, Great lakes, IL, which achieved greater than 40% building total electricity consumption savings, are presented with details, including site facts, sensor and meters, data acquisition system, selected results from real-time optimization through model-predictive control and energy diagnostics. Finally, issues and lessons learnt are discussed.
H2O staff have spent the last six months undertaking stakeholder engagement with the hydropower industry and academia to better understand the testing needs of the sector. Join this final webinar to hear the results of the stakeholder engagement and help validate the findings that will guide H2O's approach to hydropower testing in the coming years.
Since March 2026, the Small Underwater Research Flap Wave Energy Converter (SURF-WEC) - a 1m x 1m oscillating surge device - has been successfully deployed off the coast of Oahu, Hawaii. Developed by the National Laboratory of the Rockies in partnership with the Hawai'i Marine Energy Center, this project represents a significant step forward in small-scale wave energy technology. Join the upcoming PRIMRE webinar for an in-depth overview of the SURF-WEC project. The SURF-WEC team will walk through the entire lifecycle--from design and build to testing, marinization, and deployment--and share critical lessons learned to help advance the wider marine energy community.
Southwest Environmental Health Sciences Center was proud to be part of the local planning committee for the 2026 National PFAS Conference. The Conference was held from June 8-10, 2026, with pre-conference tours on June 7. We had about 430 attendees over the three days that gathered to discuss the latest developments in PFAS fate and transport, health impacts, policy, children's health, and more.
In May, hundreds of organizations convened at the 2026 Better Buildings & Better Plants Summit in Arlington, VA. More than 50 engaging and interactive sessions covered the latest in emerging technologies, innovative strategies in energy and cost savings, and much more. Join this webinar for an opportunity to catch some of the partner presentations you may have missed from the 2026 Summit.
July 14, 2026
This presentation will address the diversity and biology of some of North Carolina's most charismatic animals- fireflies, glowworms, and the enigmatic foxfire worms of the mountains. We'll discuss threats to these animals and how to help conserve them.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) and the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS; collectively referred to as the "Services") rescind the regulatory definition of "harm" in our Endangered Species Act (ESA or the Act) regulations. This rescission removes the regulatory definition of "harm" from the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) in Title 50 parts 17 and 222. This final rule is effective 14 September 2026. POC is John Tirpak, Acting Assistant Director, Ecological Services, at 703-358-2171 or ADEcologicalServices@fws.gov. (Federal Register 14 July 2026 [Rule] Pages 43300-43317)
The primary focus of this presentation is to provide current information on the in situ management of PFAS in groundwater. The presentation will provide an overview of the most promising PFAS treatment approaches including enhanced attenuation/sequestration using colloidal activated carbon (CAC) and other amendments and engineered in situ treatment systems. It will also present the current state of knowledge related to destructive technologies and discuss whether PFAS Monitored Retention, a variant of Monitored Natural Attenuation, may be a future option in a treatment train approach. The presentation will conclude with a brief discussion on how in situ treatment fits into site management strategies.
July 10, 2026
This session introduces ESTCP EW-201142 which focused on the development and demonstration of Energy Performance Monitoring and Optimization (EPMO) system that generates optimal control schedules by integrating various energy management tools with weather, sensor, and metering data. Project technical objectives and key technical components are introduced first. Then, the demonstrations in Buildings 7113 and 7114 at Naval Training Center, Great lakes, IL, which achieved greater than 40% building total electricity consumption savings, are presented with details, including site facts, sensor and meters, data acquisition system, selected results from real-time optimization through model-predictive control and energy diagnostics. Finally, issues and lessons learnt are discussed.
The training catalog features online and on-site training offered by the Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP). Browse the calendar to see FEMP training, educational events offered by federal agencies, and federal working group meetings.
July 09, 2026
Released by the U.S. DOE and its National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) September 2010, this report evaluates the potential for new large office buildings to achieve a 50% net onsite energy savings compared to a baseline standard (as defined by ANSI/ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1-2004). The report found 50% energy savings can be achieved in both low-rise and high-rise office buildings in a broad range of U.S. climates. The analysis was conducted in 16 cities that represented different climate zones, such as hot and humid, hot and dry, marine, cold and humid, and cold and dry.
Released by the U.S. DOE and its National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) September 2010, this report details the technical analysis performed and the resulting design guidance that will enable large hospitals to achieve whole-building energy savings of at least 50% over the above standard. The large hospitals report also documents the modeling methods used to demonstrate how the design recommendations will help institutions meet or exceed the 50% energy-savings goal. This report found 50% energy savings can be achieved in large hospitals across all eight U.S. climate zones.
This February 2016 document provides a framework for measurement and verification (M&V) of energy savings, performance, and user satisfaction from lighting retrofit projects involving occupancy-sensor-based, daylighting, and/or other types of automatic lighting. It was developed to provide site owners, contractors, and other involved organizations with the essential elements of a robust M&V plan for retrofit projects and to assist in developing specific project M&V plans.
In this June 2018 study GSA compares 100 GSA high-performance buildings to 100 GSA legacy stock buildings looking at actual performance data in five key metrics from the last three years. The comparison found that high-performance buildings save energy, save water, cost less to operate, produce less waste, and have more satisfied occupants compared with typical buildings.
The study, done in partnership with the DOE and with funding support from the Office of EERE, is an initial exploration of the transition to a 100% clean electricity power system by 2035--and helps to advance understanding of both the opportunities and challenges of achieving the ambitious goal. Overall, NREL finds multiple pathways to 100% clean electricity by 2035 that would produce significant benefits, but the exact technology mix and costs will be determined by research and development (R&D), manufacturing, and infrastructure investment decisions over the next decade.
July 08, 2026
The Bioeconomy Initiative: Implementation Framework was developed by the federal Biomass Research and Development (BR&D) Board. The Bioeconomy Initiative is a multi-agency strategy to accelerate innovative technologies that harness the nation's biomass resources for affordable biofuels, bioproducts, and biopower. The Framework will serve as a guiding document for the BR&D Board member agencies to increase government accountability and accelerate innovative and sustainable technologies that contribute to a secure, reliable, affordable, and enduring supply of U.S. energy and products.
The Distributed Energy Resource Cybersecurity Framework (DERCF) provides U.S. federal agency sites with a tool to assess the cybersecurity posture (or health) of their distributed energy resource systems. The DERCF fills an important gap that expands upon existing cybersecurity frameworks for our nation's evolving energy networks.
The Distributed Wind Energy Futures Study, funded by the U.S. Department of Energy's Wind Energy Technologies Office, used highly detailed data and new modeling techniques to identify locations with the highest potential for distributed wind energy of all forms. The study focused on the impact of wind technology cost and performance, policy, and siting conditions on economic potential. NREL also modeled opportunities for distributed wind in disadvantaged communities.
July 07, 2026
This web tool helps building owners evaluate the economics of grid-connected solar photovoltaics (PV) and battery storage at commercial sites. It identifies the optimal PV system size and battery dispatch strategy to minimize the life cycle cost of energy at a specific site. The web tool also estimates the amount of time a PV and battery system can sustain the site's critical load during a grid outage. The REopt Lite web tool was developed with funding from the U.S. Department of Energys (DOEs) Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP), the DOE Solar Energy Technologies Office, and the nonprofit Clean Energy Groups Resilient Power Project, with support from The Kresge Foundation.
The Wind Integration National Dataset (WIND) Toolkit is an update and expansion of the Eastern Wind Integration Data Set and Western Wind Integration Data Set. It supports the next generation of wind integration studies.
This presentation provides an overview of the updates in 10 CFR 433 (Baseline Energy Efficiency Standards Update for New Federal Commercial and Multi-Family High-Rise Residential Buildings) and 10 CFR 435 (Energy Efficiency Standards for the Design and Construction of New Federal Low-Rise Residential Buildings Baseline Standards Update).
The U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Oak Ridge National Laboratory along with other federal partners has conducted a muli-year assessment on the effects of climate change on water available for hydropower at federal facilities and the marketing of power. This website contains the results of these studies along with assessments published in 2012, 2016, and 2022.
This crosswalk identifies specific credits/points within selected commercial building certification systems and standards that federal agencies should focus on in order to meet the Guiding Principles for Sustainable Federal Buildings (GP) and other sustainable federal building requirements.
This website contains links to documents and tools to help facility managers determine compliance with the 2020 Sustainable Federal Building Requirements.
This is a web-based tool that enables users to explore aggregate energy use data from more than 150,000 commercial and multi-family buildings in the United States. The new Data Explorer tool will help building managers unlock potential savings based on the data from ENERGY STAR® Portfolio Manager®, the nation's largest energy benchmarking platform for commercial and multifamily buildings.
The Renewable Energy Potential (reV) model is a first-of-its-kind detailed spatial-temporal modeling assessment tool that empowers users to calculate renewable energy capacity, generation, and cost based on geospatial intersection with grid infrastructure and land-use characteristics. More specifically, this open-source research and modeling assessment tool allows users to explore regional and statewide renewable energy supply possibilities, identify options for connecting those energy sources to the grid, and evaluate how much those solutions can cost.
Starting in 2017, the Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP) introduced the FEDS Spotlight, a recognition program for federal agencies. FEDS Spotlight provides an opportunity for agencies to honor federal employees going above and beyond typical day-to-day responsibilities to achieve mission success while also cutting energy waste, reducing costs, optimizing performance, and advancing America's progress toward energy independence and security.
Come and learn about the amazing diversity of amphibians found across North Carolina! In this webinar, we will explore the species found here, the habitats they favor, and the conservation measures you can take to maintain them on the landscape. The presentation will also discuss the effect of various forest management activities on amphibians, including an emphasis on the value of small wetlands.
July 06, 2026
Join the Organic Farming Research Foundation (OFRF) for a two-part webinar to learn more about the latest organic agriculture research. Part two will cover topics such as soil health, diversified cropping systems, and other agronomic considerations. The webinar will give insight into peer-reviewed research treatments and results, as well as practical takeaways. The webinar will conclude with a Q A session, and participants will also have the opportunity to answer quiz questions and earn Certified Crop Advisor Continuing Education Credits.
This memorandum includes draft guidance that, if finalized, would provide recommendations that may be helpful to operators of wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) and related facilities, landowners and farmers, state and Tribal water agencies, and the public. It provides voluntary recommendations for potential ways to mitigate risks from perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) involving land application of biosolids. The EPA will solicit public comment on this draft guidance for 60 days following publication of a Notice in the Federal Register. The EPA also may use public comments filed to help inform any future agency actions.
July 02, 2026
The DoW Applied Innovation Workshop brings together researchers, technology developers, policymakers, and defense end-users to showcase cutting edge science and technologies that support military installations, enhance warfighter capabilities, and drive force modernization. This event is hosted by innovation programs under the Office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary of War for Energy Resilience & Optimization (ODASW (ER&O)).
EPA is proposing a Federal plan to implement the revised emission guidelines for existing other solid waste incineration (OSWI) units. The EPA promulgated emission guidelines for existing OSWI units in 2005 and revised the emission guidelines on June 30, 2025. If a State or Tribe with existing OSWI units subject to the 2025 revised OSWI emission guidelines does not submit an approvable plan by June 30, 2027, the EPA will develop, implement, and enforce a Federal plan for existing OSWI units located in that State or area of Indian Country. This action proposes a Federal plan to implement the 2025 revised OSWI units emission guidelines for existing OSWI units located in States and on Tribal lands without effective State or Tribal plans by the effective date of this Federal plan. Comments must be received on or before 17 August 2026. POC is Felica Davis, Ph.D., tele: (919) 541-4857, email: davis.felica@epa.gov. (Federal Register 2 July 2026 [Proposed Rule] Pages 40494-40508)
July 01, 2026
Federal agencies are required to purchase energy-consuming products with a standby power level of 1 watt or less, when compliant models are available on the market. The requirement reflects recognition that many commonly used electronic devices draw considerable power when not being used. To assist federal buyers in complying with this low standby power product requirement, the Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP) has identified priority product categories, which include products that consume relatively large amounts of energy and are prevalent in the federal sector.
Through the supply of technical support, tools, best practices, analyses, and the introduction of technologies, the Center of Expertise assists federal agencies and other organizations implement data center energy efficiency projects.
USFWS designate critical habitat for the rusty patched bumble bee (Bombus affinis), a bumble bee historically known to occur broadly across the eastern United States and portions of Canada, under the ESA. In total, they are designating approximately 1,534,951 acres (621,172 hectares) of occupied critical habitat in 14 units across 33 counties in 6 States. This rule is effective 1 July 2026. POC is Robert Tawes, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Minnesota-Wisconsin Ecological Services Field Office; telephone 612-240-6343; robert_tawes@fws.gov. (Federal Register 1 June 2026 [Rule] Pages 32516-32553)
Cities worldwide face unprecedented challenges: extreme heat, intense flooding storms, rising ocean levels, growing populations, inequity combined with declining human and ecosystem health. Future proofing cities is about designing built environments, public spaces, services and policies that make our communities more adaptable and resilient in the face of these challenges. Green infrastructure involves capturing stormwater as a resource, and using it to grow plants in, on and around buildings. Green infrastructure remains a fundamental and underutilized opportunity for us to secure a healthier and more prosperous future. At CitiesAlive hundreds of experts will come together to share new research, design practices, products, policies and services that help all of us advance our collective ability to future proof our cities.
June 30, 2026
The Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) has withdrawn numerous National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) guidance documents because they are outdated due to the rescission of CEQ's NEPA implementing regulations, congressional amendments to NEPA, changes in Executive Orders, court decisions, and evolving Administration policy. Some documents also included reporting deadlines that have since expired. CEQ will review the withdrawn guidance to determine whether it should be updated, replaced, or remain withdrawn, while retaining copies on its website for historical reference.
NMFS, announce a 12-month finding on a petition to revise the critical habitat designation under the ESA for the Southern California steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) distinct population segment (DPS). The petition from the United Water Conservation District (UWCD) requests the removal of an approximately 9-mile (14.5-kilometer (km)) stream reach from the confluence of Hopper Creek and the Santa Clara River to the face of Santa Felicia Dam. Based on our review of the best scientific and commercial data available, they find that the petitioned action to remove this reach from the critical habitat designation is warranted. Consequently, they are proposing to remove this reach from the critical habitat designation for Southern California steelhead. Comments on this proposed rule must be received by 28 August 2026. POC is Robert Markle, NMFS West Coast Region, robert.markle@noaa.gov or 503-230-5419. (Federal Register 29 June 2026 [Proposed Rule] Pages 39046-39054)
June 29, 2026
The ACP RECHARGE: Energy Storage Conference is an event that brings together leaders from across the energy storage and clean energy sectors to explore the technologies, policies, and market trends shaping the future of energy storage. The conference features expert-led educational sessions, networking opportunities, and an exhibit hall showcasing the latest innovations in energy storage. Attendees include manufacturers, developers, utilities, investors, policymakers, and technology providers working together to advance a more reliable, resilient, and affordable energy system.
The ASLA Conference on Landscape Architecture is an annual gathering of landscape architects and allied professionals, bringing together thousands of practitioners, educators, students, and industry leaders to explore the latest trends, innovations, and best practices in landscape architecture. The conference features educational sessions, hands-on field experiences, networking events, and a large EXPO showcasing products, materials, and technologies that support sustainable, resilient, and impactful design. It provides a collaborative forum for advancing the profession while addressing critical issues such as climate resilience, urban planning, ecological restoration, and community-focused design.
June 26, 2026
This tool provides consumers with customized recommendations for improving energy efficiency and comfort at home.
Project Builder (ePB) is a secure, web-based data management platform that allows customers and energy service providers (ESCOs/utilities/contractors) to preserve, track and report information for their portfolio of energy projects in perpetuity. ePB offers a full-featured suite of capabilities for all users. NEW ePB introduces eProject eXpress (ePX) for state and local governments and other users seeking streamlined functionality.
This website contains guidance and tools to help facility managers implement the ISO 50001-based energy management system.
The National Trust for Historic Preservation will host the National Preservation Summit on September 22–23 at Washington National Cathedral, bringing together preservation, civic, business, and community leaders to explore the theme "All People Are Created Equal." Held during the nation's 250th anniversary, the Summit will focus on community revitalization, interpreting history to build a shared future, and the role of historic places in strengthening democracy and belonging. The event concludes with an Advocacy Day and reception on Capitol Hill on September 24.
June 25, 2026
This strategy, released on July 20, 2011, specifies Federal actions for ensuring electronic stewardship in the US. An interagency task force co-chaired by CEQ, EPA and GSA developed recommendations that focus on incentivizing design of greener electronics, ensuring the Federal government leads by example in acquiring, managing, reusing and recycling its electronics, increasing domestic recycling efforts, and reducing harm from US exports of electronic waste and improving safe handling of used electronics to developing countries.
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA or Agency) is proposing amendments to its procedures for implementing the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA). This proposed rule would also include technical amendments to the Agency's procedures to improve clarity, correct errors, and update office names and titles. This proposed rule would amend EPA's NEPA implementing procedures by incorporating proposed revisions to create efficiencies in the implementation of NEPA and to harmonize EPA's NEPA Implementing Procedures with other federal agencies' procedures, where possible. The proposed rule also incorporates the amendments to NEPA enacted through the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023 (FRA) and the One Big Beautiful Bill Act of 2025 (OBBBA); makes changes consistent with Executive Order (E.O.) 14154, Unleashing American Energy; makes changes based on the Council on Environmental Quality's (CEQ) subsequent rescission of its NEPA regulations; and to reflect the Supreme Court's May 29, 2025 decision in Seven County Infrastructure Coalition v. Eagle County, Colorado, 605 U.S. 168(2025). Comments must be received on or before 27 July 2026. POC is Nancy Abrams, tele: (202) 564-8783; email: abrams.nancy@epa.gov. (Federal Register 25 June 2026 [Proposed Rule] Pages 38359-38382)
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) developed the Building Life Cycle Cost (BLCC) Programs to provide computational support for the analysis of capital investments in buildings. BLCC conducts economic analyses by evaluating the relative cost effectiveness of alternative buildings and building-related systems or components. Typically, BLCC is used to evaluate alternative designs that have higher initial costs but lower operating costs over the project life than the lowest-initial-cost design. It is especially useful for evaluating the costs and benefits of energy and water conservation and renewable energy projects.
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