Grid

Gas prices spurt as Gulf's rigs, refineries brace for hurricane Isaac

By Ron Scherer Just before millions of Americans get ready to hit the road for a Labor Day getaway, the price of gasoline is on the rise. Blame hurricane Isaac. In advance of the storm hitting the New Orleans area, about half of the refineries in the storm's path had shut down for safety

Public-sector belt-tightening: Thrift or long-term drag on US economy?

By Ron Scherer This summer, firefighter Brian Lykins canceled his vacation to Nashville, horseback-riding summer camp for one daughter, and summer softball for another daughter. As for eating out: "It's something we seldom get to do," he says. The reason: Mr. Lykins, a single father with

Solar storm barreling toward Earth this weekend

By ALICIA CHANGAP Science Writer LOS ANGELES (AP) - The space weather forecast for Earth looks a bit stormy this weekend, but scientists said not to worry. A solar storm was due to arrive Saturday morning and last through Sunday, slamming into Earth's magnetic field. Scientists said it will

Solar, wind energy a missed opportunity for Cuba

By ANDREA RODRIGUEZAssociated Press RAMON GORDO, Cuba (AP) - The sleepy country setting that farmer Juan Alonso calls home hasn't changed much since he was born 74 years ago, with the two rustic wooden houses nestled among palm trees against a backdrop of green hills and