The DOE and HUD have teamed up to provide loans to families who wish to make energy efficient improvements to their homes. Also, a new online competition launches that uses competition to encourage energy conservation. And New Mexico hydropower project the first to receive ARRA funding.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the infamous Chernobyl nuclear disaster and in its honor, the European commission has signed a renewed nuclear deal with Ukraine. Also, the results of the Shell Eco-Marathon contest and biofueled race car takes home second place in race.

New York City has more than doubled the number of private solar installations, an energy company makes Fortune's list of admired companies, and European leaders plan a conference to discuss the future of renewable energy once policies expire.

The European Union is set for its first Energy Summit in two days--can energy companies pass their demand for a single energy market?