In this Issue:

U.S. starts legal action against China over wind energy subsidies, rare earths issues; RENEWABLE ENERGY FOCUS - Credit crunch hurt renewable energy business in 2010, says BlackRock; Renewable energy accounts for 11% of U.S. total, says DOE report; California grid operator readies infrastructure for more solar, wind power; Officials issue environmental review of proposed Mojave Desert solar high-voltage line; Imperial Irrigation District announces renewable energy transmission achievement; California authorities approve reverse auctions for renewable energy projects; California Energy Commission expects fewer solar deals in 2011 despite renewal of renewable energy grant bill; San Joaquin Valley experiencing solar power boom; Molten salt technology could give solar plants added production, flexibility; Lake County geothermal plant receives EIR approval; FERC releases EIS draft for proposed 1.3GW Riverside County hydroelectric facility; Clean tech startup launches GHG-capture product in California; NOTABLE RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECTS AND DEALS - Tessera sells 850MW Calico Solar Power Project, loses Edison power purchase deal, faces further litigation against Imperial Valley project; California solar company gets $28M for Wisconsin relocation; and California Gold aims for solar rare-earth profits with $1.5B Mexico tellurium mine purchase.

U.S. starts legal action against China over wind energy subsidies, rare earths issues

Sustainable Business - Dec 30

The U.S. has taken the first steps toward filing a trade case against China with the World Trade Organization (WTO) over issues related to renewable energy. U.S. officials first accused China of illegally subsidizing its wind power industry and included a complaint about the country's export restrictions on rare earths soon after. In response to the accusations, Chinese officials say they are willing to discuss the wind energy situation, but have shown no willingness to increase export quotas on rare earths. Related News: U.S. to file suit against China over wind subsidies- Sustainable Business