Ford seeks tax credits to make batteries
Ford, which has been assembling batteries from auto supplier Delphi Corp. in Mexico, said it plans to start producing its own battery systems for the next generation of hybrid and plug-in electric vehicles beginning with an electric Transit Connect in 2010 and an electric Ford Focus in 2011. The Focus will be built in Michigan.
Derek Kuzak, Ford's global vice president of product development, said in a conference call that Ford wants to hire up to 1,000 workers for the project.
It is seeking around $120 million in tax credits earmarked for companies that develop batteries. Nancy Gioia, Ford's director of global electric strategy, said she is in talks this week with Michigan leaders but didn't give a deadline for a decision.
Kuzak said many companies have already moved battery production in-house as battery and car design become increasingly interrelated.
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Electricity alert ends after Alberta forced to rely on reserves to run grid
CALGARY - Alberta's energy grid ran on reserves Wednesday, after multiple factors led to a supply shortage.
At 3:52 p.m. Wednesday, the Alberta Electric System Operator issued a Level 2 alert, meaning that reserves were being used to supply energy requirements and that load management procedures had been implemented. The alert ended at 6:06 p.m.
"This is due to unplanned generator outages, low wind and a reduction of import capability," the agency said in a post to social media. "Supply is tight but still meeting demand."
AESO spokesperson Mike Deising said the intertie with Saskatchewan had tripped off, and an issue on the…
