Green energy firm finds gold in the halls of power

[phantom power]

In 2009, as Bloom's scientists honed the technology, Bloom's lobbyists shaped legislation at the Capitol and a key decision at the California Public Utilities Commission.

By the end of 2010, the commission had granted Bloom payments and commitments totaling $210 million to subsidize its fuel cell technology, PUC officials said.

Bloom was so effective that some legislators worried there would be no money left for other companies that might have innovative technology. Earlier this month, Public Utilities Commission President Michael Peevey issued an order suspending the program.

In many ways, Bloom is a feel-good and hopeful story. It's also a story about how Bloom has navigated the system and tapped into other people's money.

Read more: http://www.sacbee.com/2011/02/20/3414791/green-energy-firm-finds-gold-in.html#ixzz1Ec6CyX7Z

[WhiteTara]

1. does this mean that Bloom Box won't be

blooming anytime soon? I love the concept and wanted it to be real.