The second contest in the year-long American Energy Data Challenge, called the Apps for Energy II contest, was recently launched by the Department of Energy (DOE). Individuals or teams can submit an app that utilizes publicly available, energy-related application programme interfaces (API) that help disseminate DOE-developed tools related to tracking energy consumption. The contest plans to award teams who create apps that help consumers of all sizes–from individuals to commercial buildings–track and manage their energy use. The contest will run until March 9, with winners announced later that month. The DOE plans to launch two additional challenges over the next few months: Energy Data by Design and the American Energy Challenge. Read the article here.