James Dauwalter Appointed Chairman of US BioEnergy

ST. PAUL, Minn., Nov 06, 2007 -- US BioEnergy Corporation (NASDAQ:USBE), a leading ethanol producer in the United States, announced actions designed to enhance the independence of the company's board of directors. James E. Dauwalter has been elected non-executive chairman of the board of directors. Gordon W. Ommen will continue as the company's CEO and president. "We believe these actions will allow Gordon to focus all of his time and attention on completing our plants under construction, improving our operations and evaluating strategic opportunities while providing independent leadership at the board level," said Dauwalter. Link. Chart.

Shell And Codexis Expand Collaboration To Explore New Super Enzymes

London, UK and Redwood City, CA - The development of sustainable biofuel took a step forward as Royal Dutch Shell plc expanded its collaboration with Codexis Inc. to develop new super enzymes to convert biomass to fuel. The new agreement covers five years of research collaboration and includes Shell making an equity investment in Codexis and taking a seat on the company’s board. Research will focus on adapting enzymes to improve the conversion of a range of raw materials into high-performance fuels. It will assist Shell in developing the next generation of biofuels as it explores a number of non-food bio materials, new conversion processes and alternative fuel products. Link.

PG&E and Ausra Announce 177 Megawatt Solar Thermal Power Agreement

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif.—Pacific Gas and Electric Company announced that it has entered into a 177 megawatt solar thermal power purchasing agreement with Ausra Inc. The project, to be located in central California, is being developed by Ausra. "Today's agreement between PG&E and Ausra highlights how clean energy will create jobs in California while delivering a reliable source of renewable energy," said Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. "I'm pleased to see California companies rising to the challenge of AB 32, California's historic initiative to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change. Clearly, California continues to lead the nation in clean energy research, development and generation." Link.

Ener1 Announces Management Changes

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., -- Ener1, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: ENEI) announced a number of management and organizational changes. Link. Chart.

Nalco CEO William H. Joyce Announces Retirement

NAPERVILLE, Ill., -- Nalco Holding Company (NYSE:NLC) announced that Dr. William H. Joyce, 71, has stated his intention to retire as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer on December 30, 2007. Dr. Joyce has agreed to assist with the succession and transition process through March 31, 2008. A Board committee of independent directors has been formed to select his successor and expects to complete its process in the coming months. Link. Chart.

Khosla Ventures and BIOeCON form KiOR

Hoevelaken -- Khosla Ventures and BIOeCON announce the formation of their joint venture KiOR Inc. Khosla Ventures, will provide the Series A funding, whereas BIOeCON will bring its knowledge and intellectual property for the ‘Biomass Catalytic Cracking Process' (BCC). KiOR Inc. will focus on the further development and commercialization of the BCC technology as well as prepare for raising significantly more capital in the next two to three years. Link.

Akeena Solar Announces $26.1 Million Private Placement

LOS GATOS, Calif.--Akeena Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ:AKNS), a leading designer and installer of solar power systems, announced it has entered into securities purchase agreements with certain accredited, institutional investors, to raise approximately $26.1 million through the issuance of 3,728,572 shares of common stock and warrants to purchase 745,716 shares of common stock. The warrants are exercisable beginning six months after the closing, with a term of 60 months and an exercise price of $10.08 per share, and are subject to certain anti-dilution provisions. Link. Chart.

Serious Materials Receives $50 Million in Funding

SUNNYVALE, CA — Serious Materials announced that it has closed $50 million in additional investment, led by New Enterprise Associates (NEA) and Foundation Capital, along with Rustic Canyon Partners. Serious Materials develops and manufactures sustainable green building materials that considerably reduce the impact of the 'built environment' on the climate. Link.