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March 11, 2010

Movie Theaters Getting Greener




Movie theaters are embracing the the green movement including LEED.

" ... theaters are making an effort to help viewers go green ... including Georgia-based Carmike Cinemas ... built a LEED-certified theater in Chattanooga, Tenn., which opened in November ... "

 

 

" ... Environmentally conscious theater construction and design are growing trends ... Some theaters are installing solar panels ... and using recycled building materials for new theaters and existing facilities that are under renovation."

 

 

Via: FORBES LINK

March 10, 2010

Chicago's ConEd Experiments with Consumer Energy Management Tools




ConEd LogoChicago's ConEd is conducting an experiment to determine how consumers manage their energy use when they have metrics on use, cost and use patterns.  Home will be outfitted with solar panels and some homes will be allowed to sell back to the grid and others will not.

" ... will install smart electric meters and price the homes’ electric use by the hour. Half of the homes will be able to gain credits by sending stored solar power back to the grid. The other half won’t be able to store their energy."

" ... whether consumers have the ability, with this technology, to become little utilities. They will be able to buy and sell electricity at a real-time hourly price, which is very close to the wholesale price, from their homes."

 

Via:  SmartPlanet LINK

March 01, 2010

UCLA Research - Carbon Capturing Crystals




Carbon capturing crystalsChemists at UCLA have created a "gene" that might capture CO2 and help control CO2 emissions.

"UCLA chemists report creating a synthetic "gene" that could capture ... carbon dioxide emissions, which contribute to global warming, rising sea levels and the increased acidity of oceans."

" ... taken organic and inorganic units and combined them into a synthetic crystal which codes information in a DNA-like manner ... no means as sophisticated as DNA, but it is certainly new in chemistry and materials science."
CO2 molecule
" ... could lead to cleaner energy, including technology that factories and cars can use to capture carbon dioxide before it reaches the atmosphere."

" ... invented a class of materials called metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), sometimes described as crystal sponges ... openings on the nanoscale ... which ... can store gases that are usually difficult to store and transport. ..."

 

Via:  UCLA  LINK

February 26, 2010

Bloom Energy Servers™ Fuel Cells




BloomEnergy logoBloomEnergy has announced a novel fuel cell and unlike typical fuel cells if does not require precious metal catalysts. Fuel cells are typcially "cleaner" than other power sources.

" ..  an innovative new fuel cell technology ... derived from a common sand-like powder ... technology is able to produce clean, reliable, affordable power,... practically anywhere,... from a wide range of renewable or traditional fuels."

" ... Energy Servers™ are among the most efficient energy generators on the planet; providing for significantly reduced electricity costs and dramatically lower greenhouse gas emissions ... "

" ... Originally called Ion America, Bloom Energy, was founded with the mission to make clean, reliable energy affordable for everyone on earth."

" ... After two years of successful field trials in Tennessee, California, and Alaska, to validate the technology, the first commercial (100kW) products were shipped to Google in July 2008."

" ... Bloom's Energy Servers have helped our customers generate millions of kWhs of electricity and eliminate millions of pounds of CO2 from the environment."

 

Via:  BloomEnergy LINK

February 18, 2010

Australian Tower to get Solar Skin Upgrade




Sydney Tower w/ Solar SkinThe UTS Tower in Sydney, Australia is may get a proposed upgrade - a solar skin.  This PV "wrap" would turn the tower into a very green and energy efficient structure.

The University of Technology Sydney (UTS) Tower "upgrade" is " ... Fueled by the university’s sustainability drive ... turn the building into a “landmark environmental tower” by wrapping it in a photovoltaic skin."

"The sustainable energy system, devised by postgraduate students in 2008, has been funded to allow students to build and test the project."

 There are a number of propose upgrades including wind turbines and cogeneration ... the solar skin " ... stretches around walls and roof elements ... the building is covered in a lightweight composite mesh textile that can collect rain water, generate electricity and complement the plan’s passive ventilation system that uses natural convection."

 

Via:  SmartPlanet  LINK

February 17, 2010

Silicon Nanowires - Possible Solar Fabric




Silicon NanowireScientists from CalTech have developed technology that might lead efficient solar cells from silicon nanowires.  This could lead to all sorts of configurations for solar cells including fabrics.

" ... CalTech scientists say they have the underlying technology. Silicon nanowires, arranged in arrays, have been engineered that ... grab power from visible light ..."

" ... a cell geometry that not only uses 1/100th the material of traditional wafer-based devices, but also may offer increased photovoltaic efficiency owing to an effective optical concentration of up to 20 times ...”

" ... CalTech’s cells have efficiency comparable to solar panels now being installed on roofs."

"If nanowires can be woven into a viable matrix, combined with other material, it means fabrics can double as solar connectors, once they have a way to off-load the power they create."

 

Via:  SmartPlanet  LINK

February 09, 2010

GSA to Green-Up Portland, Oregonm Federal Building




Green Vertical wall

The GSA is renovating the 18 story federal building in Portland, Oregon.  Green features include a vertical green wall and reduced water usage with low flow fixtures and recycled roof water.

"... part of a $133 million renovation, the General Services Administration wants to grow “vegetated fins” on the western facade of the Edith Green-Wendell Wyatt Federal Building ... save energy year-round using one of Mother Nature’s own tools."

" ... will use 60 to 65 percent less energy than comparable buildings. That translates to an energy cost savings of $280,000 per year."

"Solar panels could also provide up to 15 percent of the building’s power needs. Energy use for lighting will be halved."

"... building in question was already slated for an energy efficiency upgrade, but funds from last year’s federal stimulus package stressed projects that were environmentally friendly."

Via:  SmartPlanet  LINK

February 05, 2010

Frog's Leap Winery - Sustainable Winery




"Frog's Leap Winery ... in ... scenic Napa Valley ... getting attention as one of first wineries in the U.S to be sustainable ... the winery's motivation to be green, is as much about the bottom line as it is about the environment. Financial benefits include: a solar installation that is saving the vineyard $50,000 dollars a month on electric bills and dry farming techniques that bypass the need for costly irrigation"

 

 

Via:  SmartPlanet  LINK

 

 

 

February 01, 2010

Samsung to Invest in Renewable Energy Projects in North American Market




Samsung logo"Samsung and Korea Electric Power Corp. will invest $6.6 billion into wind and solar projects in Ontario ... will build and maintain power plants as well as erect four new factories in North America for making the equipment for the power plants ... plants will employ 1,440 and building and maintaining the power plant will keep 16,000 busy ..."

" ... 2.5 gigawatts of renewable capacity ... triple renewable capacity in Ontario."

" ... Samsung hopes to translate its expertise in electronics, deep financial pocket, and manufacturing heft into a leading role in building management systems, energy efficient electronics and solar power ... "

"Samsung has already stated a public goal of becoming number one in solar in 2015 ... laid out an ambitious carbon reduction plan ... wants to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from both its operations and from the use of its products by 50 percent by 2013 on a normalized sales basis...."

In 2008, Samsung and its products emitted 9.4 million tons of greenhouse gases with about 60 percent of the emissions coming indirectly through products. ..."


Via:  Greentechmedia  LINK

January 31, 2010

Osmosis - Possible Route to Power Generation




Statkraft OsmosisNorway's Statkraft is looking at osmosis as a possible energy source.  Currently the output is minimal but it may be the way of the future.

" ... Norway's Statkraft says that its new, first-of-Statkraft Osmoisisits-kind osmotic power plant could be producing as much energy as a small wind farm by 2015, ... when the process of osmosis takes place ... the pressure is apparently enough to drive a power generating turbine ... enough of those you have a power plant. A bit of effort, to be sure, but the process doesn't emit any greenhouse gases, is completely renewable, and it doesn't depend on the wind or the sun being out."


Via: Engadget LINK

Continue reading "Osmosis - Possible Route to Power Generation" »

January 27, 2010

Portable Geothermal Power Units from UTC




Mobile Goethermal Unit

 

"Pratt & Whitney Power Systems ... recently demonstrated a mobile geothermal power generation unit at the 2009 Geothermal Energy Expo in Reno, Nev. ... PureCycle® technology allows customers to relocate valuable energy generating capability from one geothermal or waste heat resource to another as circumstances dictate. ..."

" ... system can generate electricity from various heat sources with temperatures between 190 and 325 degrees Fahrenheit ...."

" ... new feature is the self-contained cooling system that uses resource water to replenish the cooling tower water, thus eliminating the need for a separate fresh water source ... demonstrates how low temperature geothermal technology that can diversify the nation’s energy supply with base load renewable energy while creating jobs and economic benefits."

 

Via:  United Technologies Corp.  LINK

 

January 25, 2010

Newport, Tennessee Housing Authority: Green Admin Building




Newport Housing Authority Building

Green buildings and designs are being found all across the country ... the Housing Authority Administration building in Newport, Tennessee is green.  Read about the many green features and technologies used.

" ... 8,585 square foot administration building ... Design included multiple "green" features: photovaltaic solar panels, geothermal heating and cooling, premium insulation package, Energy Star windows and lighting, low flow faucets and toilets and low impact site design. Project cost was $1,000,000.00."

 

Via:  McGraw-Hill Construction Community   LINK

January 21, 2010

Fuel Cell to Power Connecticut Science Center




UTC Fuel Cell

"A 200kW UTC Power fuel cell ... at the new Connecticut Science Center in Hartford ... will generate 100 percent of the electricity demanded by the facility on an annual basis once operational ... will be the first such facility to generate most of its own energy on-site with ultra clean, quiet fuel cell power."United Technologies Logo

 

" ... reduce the burden on the New England power grid and its impact on the environment ... will prevent the release of more than 270 metric tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere annually by using the Model 200 PureCell® system rather than relying on a traditional fossil-fuel-burning powerplant ... one of the first fuel cell installations in the state to employ net metering, a process by which surplus power from the fuel cell is fed to the utility grid at night when the facility’s power demand is less."

 

Via: United Technologies Corp. LINK

January 18, 2010

Dedham Mass Whole Foods Powered by Fuel Cell




Dedham Mass Whole Foods

Fuel cells are making there way to a food store near you - if you live in Dedham, Mass.

" ... newest and largest Whole Foods Market in New England ... in Dedham, MA. ... the first store in Massachusetts to generate on-site power with fuel cell technology (one of the cleanest forms of energy)! 90% of our power will be generated by this fuel cell - this is sometUnited Technologies logohing that we are very proud of."

" ... powered by a 400-kilowatt UTC Power fuel cell and a rooftop solar installation that will generate most of the store’s power and all of its hot water needs ..."

 

Via:  Whole Foods LINK  and United Technologies LINK

January 15, 2010

Fluxxlab Looks at Harnessing the Energy in Revolving Doors




fluxxlab logo

Fluxxlab has an idea to harness the "energy" in revolving doors. Already an energy saver compared to traditional doors in office buildings ... these could generate significsant power in large building with hundreds of workers.

" ... work to date has been focused on sustainable energy harvesting, specifically in the form of converting small amounts of human energy into electricity ..."Revolution Door

"... Revolution Door is a modified revolving ... a redesigned central core replacing that of any existing or new revolving door, a mechanical/electrical system that harnesses human energy and redistributes electricity to an output, and an output device that maps the harnessed energy ... the Revolution Door will directly communicate a single person's contribution to an energy cycle possible through the metabolic relationship between people, technology, and architecture."

 

 Via:  Fluxxlab  LINK

January 14, 2010

Google Applies for Energy License




Google logoIn addition to being know for its green efforts (solar panels and highly efficient servers) Google is possibly entering ther power business by applying for a license to buy and sell wholesale power.

"... are other non-utilities already in the power business. Usually other firms with similar heavy power needs.  ... Google Energy subsidiary was formed in late 2009 ... putting it into a stronger position to balance Google’s energy needs with its goal to promote the use of alternative energy for electricity generation ... it will shop for the best sources of renewable energy to run its operations ... stated goal is to become carbon-neutral."

 

Via:  ZDNet  LINK

January 02, 2010

Prince Charles Runs His Aston Martin on BioEthanol




Prince Charles in his Aston Martin

" ... Prince Charles, the U.K.'s version of Al Gore, has taken another step in a green direction: his 1970 Aston Martin DB6 has been converted to run entirely on bioethanol ... fuel ... made from a white wine produced near the prince's Highgrove Estate, itself a showcase for organic farming ..."

" ... goal of reducing emissions from his planes, trains, and automobiles 25% by 2018 ... European Union limits annual wine production, so any leftovers from England's current vintage can be converted to bioethanol by Green Fuels Ltd.... company has previously provided bioethanol to power the royal train. The prince's other vehicles, which include a smattering of Jaguars, a Range Rover, and an Audi, have been converted to run on bioethanol made from cooking oil...."


Via: RiverWired LINK

 

January 01, 2010

Green Fuels Ltd.




FeulPodGreen Fuels Ltd makes it possible to produce your own biodiesel ... with one of their FuelPod products ...

They are the " ... world leading biodiesel equipment supplier, ... design and manufacture ... affordable biodiesel processing equipment ... for small-scale, domestic usage - right up to commercial production.  ... currently more than 6,500 Green Fuels and Green Fuels America processors world wide. Between them they produce more than 350 million litres of biodiesel every year"

"If you want ... ‘green’ biodiesel, but don’t want to produce it yourself, you can buy high quality fuel from one of our Green Fuels approved dealers nationwide ...you will always save money compared with standard garage fuels ... "

"Biodiesel is a clean-burning biofuel produced from domestic renewable resources such as used cooking oil, oil seed crops such as rapeseed, or unused vegetable oil. It is biodegradeable, non-toxic and carbon neutral ... has 80% lower emissions than mineral diesel, it dramatically reduces pollution. It is inexpensive and easy to produce at home and is safe to use in any diesel vehicle without any modifications to your engine."

" ... two models in the Fuelpod range by Green Fuels - the safest way to produce high quality biodiesel at home. Both are supplied as complete systems and have minimal operating costs, with exceptionally low electricity consumption."


Via: Green Fuels Ltd. LINK

 


December 27, 2009

Danish Town of Samso is Energy Self Sufficient




" ... inhabitants on the small Danish island of Samso have ... become one of the first industrialised places in the world to qualify as being totally energy self-sufficient ... Denmark ... can now boast a region that can be used by the rest of the planet as the blueprint for future green energy production ... started in 1997 when Samso won a competition ... to become Denmark's "Renewable Energy Island" by presenting a 10-year plan to convert its energy consumption from oil and gas to clean technology ... 21 wind turbines have been built on Samso ..."

" ... houses in Samso's 22 villages are heated by power plants that rely on furnaces fired by wood chips and straw and farms of man-sized solar panels inhabit the fields ... project also creates new jobs as ... island's plumbers and carpenters have now all become experts in energy-saving home conversion and insulation techniques, and even get the opportunity to carry out installations in mainland Europe and the US ..."

For more on this project check out this video ...

 

Via: Power and Energy News LINK

December 11, 2009

Fuel Cell Powered Planes a Possibliity




Here is another example of military technology that will have significant civilian benefit ... in this case fuel cell powered unmanned drones (very small planes). "The Ion Tiger is small prop driven plane that promises to carry a five pound payload and stay aloft for more than 24 hours ... power source is series of hydrogen fuel cells that crank out 500 watt ... power the three quarter horsepower prop motor ..." "On Oct. 9-10, the 37-pound Ion Tiger stayed aloft for 23 hours and 17 minutes at the Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland, just missing its 24 hour goal ..." "... advantages to a hydrogen-powered craft like Ion Tiger ... cheaper and fuel (water!) and zero emissions assuming the hydrogen comes from a non-polluting source ... biggest advantage is the absence of heat and noise generated by an internal combustion engine which makes the Ion Tiger is hard to detect. " Check out the viedo below ... Via: SmartPlanet LINK

December 08, 2009

Matsushita - Home Fuel Cells Coming to Japan




Japan's Matsushita ... "will claim first place in the race to put commercial home fuel cells on the market ... "

" ... can optimally provide 70 percent of the energy needs for a 1,280 square foot house with four people ... can reduce energy consumption by 22 percent and CO2 emissions by 12 percent as compared to all other power sources ... ".

" ... cogeneration home fuel cell hooks up to the city’s natural gas lines, extracting hydrogen from the gas ... hydrogen is combined with oxygen through a series of polyelectrolyte membranes, a process that creates electricity, heat, and water ... home fuel cell produces between 500 watts and a 1 kilowatt of electricity and captures the heat to warm a tank of water, used for showers, dishes etc."

" ... a contribution to Japan’s goals of reducing global CO2 emissions 50 percent by 2050." " ... fuel cells require a great deal of energy; for example, this unit contains more than 2,000 components. Whether the production of the units negates the energy and CO2 savings gained by customers is unclear."

Check out this video ...

 

Via: Mother Nature Network LINK

December 06, 2009

Levant Power - Energy Recovery Systems for Hybrid Vehicles




Levant Power logo

 Levant Power makes GenShock - a shock absorber that can transform a vehicles suspension motion into energy - and charge a hybrid's battery just like regenerative braking.energy savings chart

"Levant Power Corp. has identified an alternative energy source previously untapped ...  the suspension system ... energy of a vertically oscillating vehicle is significant and currently dissipated as heat through shock absorbers."

" ... GenShock, recovers this energy and utilizes it for fuel economy gains ... improves ride quality ...  is a turnkey replacement for standard shock absorbers, requiring minimal installation time and little to no maintenance."

" ... GenShock uses a specialized manifold and a hydraulic motor coupled with an electric generator to provide damping and harvest otherwise wasted energy. In effect, GenShock performs the function of a standard shock while acting as an additional source of power. "

 

Via:  Levant Power  LINK

 

 

 

November 20, 2009

Fuel From Sugar Cane - Power for Sugar Producing Nations




claren power logo

Bio fuel from Sugar Cane is a good source of renewable energy.  Claren Power, Srlington, Virginia, works with nations rich in sugar cane to develop renewable power using bagasse - the waste material from sugar cane after the sugar has been extracted.

" ... Sugar cane bagasse, the waste pulp that remains after raw cane has been processed, has been a fuel source for decades ... much of the energy is lost to ... inefficient and unproductive technology and suboptimal operating practices ...  effectively using bagasse as a fuel source, Claren is helping to unlock the massive potential for clean and renewable power, creating huge benefits for individual mills,investors, and citizens of the developing world."

"... capitalizing on new regulations that open up national electricity markets as well as the exploding world-wide demand for certified carbon credits, Claren is able to generate tremendous returns for our clients and institutional investment partners."

 

 

Via:  Claren Power LINK

November 17, 2009

The Dow Chemical Company Partners with Caltech on Solar Energy




Dow logo

On November 12, 2009 Dow and Caltech " ... announced ... a multi-year research collaboration ... in solar energy ... aimed at aligning Dow’s capabilities in CIGS based materials with Caltech’s research in next generati aterials."

Caltech logo

" ... research ... will initially focus on direct band gap materials that incorporate elements that are less expensive and more commonly available than those used in today’s thin film PV semiconductors.  ..."

"Photovoltaics provide carbon free electricity, however the cost and aesthetics of current PV systems has limited its adoption ... Dow recently announced its first building integrated photovoltaic product, the DowTM POWERHOUSETM Solar Shingle ..."



Via:  The Dow Chemical Company LINK

November 16, 2009

Claren Power - Turns Sugar Cane into Bio Fuel




Claren Power logo 

Claren Power, a Arlington, Virginia company, " ... partners with sugar mills in Brazil to build modern, cogenerational (making heat and power simultaneously) facilities. The fuel comes from sugar cane waste—called bagasse... "

" ... using the waste product of the sugar after the stalks are crushed, ground and shredded and the juice is squeezed out. ... use this as the fuel for our boiler, which heats water ... to generate steam. This pressurized steam drives a turbine, which is connected to a generator that converts this energy into electricity. ..."

"Most plants consume about a third of the energy (steam and electricity) that we generate during the harvest, leaving the other two-thirds to export to the electrical grid. Our goal is to help make plants more efficient so that we have more excess energy. We’re using the same resources but providing three times more energy."


Via: SmartPlanet  LINK

September 30, 2009

SF Mayor Talks about Wave and Tidal Power Options for Green Energy




Gavin Newson, Mayor or SF, California is intersted in exploring the renewable energy options available from the wind. Both wave and tidal are renewable and avaialable in the SF area and given waters density compared to air ... the machinery can be smaller and generate more energy. Via: ZDnet LINK

September 21, 2009

Moto Green Power Purchasing




Motorola achieves recognition for green leadership from the EPA for its electrical power procurement process. The company is commited to sustainability through lowering its carbon footprint and developing energy efficient products. ...
... "For 2009, Motorola is purchasing more than 78 million kilowatt hours (kWh) of Green-e certified renewable energy certificates (RECs), generated from wind-power sources. This represents 20 percent of the company’s U.S. electricity purchases. Motorola is buying the RECs from NativeEnergy that support the Langdon Wind Facility in North Dakota. " ...
Via Motorola: EPA Green Power Leadership Award

Continue reading "Moto Green Power Purchasing" »

September 17, 2009

GoodEnergy - 100% Renewable Electricity




GoodEnergy uk/wp-content/uploads/images/good_energy-logo.gif

Good Energy is a British " ... independent renewable energy company based in Wiltshire. ... started by a groupUK Co2 Emissions by Type of people ... committed to addressing climate change."

" ... Mission ... is to fight climate change by EMPOWERING INDIVIDUALS to make a difference, ... giving them practical ways to make positive changes in their attitude towards energy, and the way they use it ... switching to pure 100% renewable electricity ... improving their energy efficiency ... generating their own renewable energy, and ... playing a part in the campaign for

Good Energy - sources of energy

renewable energy in the UK"

" ... have over 500 indepe ndent renewable electricity generators on our books. This is almost 15% of all microgenerators in the UK ... Most of the electricity we buy comes from wind power. ... s and farmers getting into wind power ... water ... gives us about 13% of our clean green energy ..."

 

 

Via: GoodEnergy LINK

September 16, 2009

On-Site Green Power Generation Leadership at Applied Materials




The EPA has recognized Applied Materials with a 2009 Green Power Leadership Award for its dedication to green power from on-premise generation and renewable energy procurement.  Applied has responded to the EPA Fortune 500 challenge with solar energy generation and the purchasing of green power.  ...Applied Materials Green Power Recognition

 ...   "Applied Materials was one of only three organizations nationwide to receive a Leadership Award for the on-site generation of green power. The award recognizes EPA Green Power Partners who distinguish themselves using on-site renewable energy applications, such as solar photovoltaic (PV) or wind energy projects. Applied Materials is currently generating 3.2 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of green power annually in the U.S. using on-site solar power generation at the company’s California and Texas facilities. In addition, Applied Materials purchases more than 31 million kWh of green power annually. In total, the company uses enough green power to meet more than 15 percent of its electricity use. "   ...

Via Applied Materials: EPA Green Power Leadership Award

 

 

 

Continue reading "On-Site Green Power Generation Leadership at Applied Materials" »

September 15, 2009

Compressed Air Storage Smooths Wind Power Availability




Energy Storage and Power, LLC

As both wind and solar power are intermittent - unlike gas, coal, oil or nuclear fired power plants - there is a need for an effective way to store these energy sources until they are needed.  The ability to smooth the supply with the demand is becoming more imporCAES schematictant as solar and wind start to power the grid.

Compressed Air Energy Storage - CAES " ... stores off-peak energy, in the form of compressed air in an underground reservoir, and releases this energy during peak hours. ... used for load management of intermittent renewable energy resources or as a stand-alone intermediate generation source for capturing energy arbitrage, capacity payments and ancillary services. ..."

"Renewable power sources are critical to addressing climate change. CAES greatly enhances the value of renewable power sources by (1) storing energy produced by renewables when demand is low and releasing it when it is needed, and by (2) rapidly providing power in the event of a sudden loss of renewables generation. ..."

 

Via:  Energy Storage and Power  LINK

 

September 11, 2009

Sustainable Lawrence (NJ)




Sustainable Lawrenceville (NJ) 

Lawrence Township joins other communities that want to promote green aspects of their community and are working toward that end ...

"Sustainable Lawrence is... dedicated to creating a sustainable community in Lawrence Township, NJ. ...  community in which the present needs of all of its citizens are met without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs ... "

" ... policies and practices that ultimately ... Reduce ... fossil fuel dependence and wasteful use of scarce metals and minerals ... Reduce ... dependence on harmful chemicals and wasteful use of synthetic substances ... Minimize ... encroachment upon nature (e.g., land, water, wildlife, forests, soil, ecosystems) ..."

 

Via:  Sustainable Lawrence LINK

August 28, 2009

Prairie Bunkers, LLC - Repurpose Buildings to Data Centers




Prairie Bunkers potential locations

 Prairie Bunkers LLC is repurposing WWII ammunition depots into secure energy efficient data centers.  These structures are built to withstand force 5 tornadoes.

In addition to the green aspect of repurposing an existing building ... there are others green features.

 

"Saves approximately 5000 cubic tons of carbon emission which would be produced by construction of a similar structure ... electrical provider .... has a high percentage of renewable energy, including hydro, wind and nuclear ... On-site solar and wind energy systems in planning stages ... Air Economizers to use “free cooling” from average annual temperature of 54 degrees ... Optional active geothermal ... heat pump system ... Passive Geothermal, provided by the bermed earth covering on three sides and top of bunkers ..."

" .... Native vegetation landscaping minimizes irrigation ... Fire suppression agent has zero carbon foot print ... UPS Options including flywheel technology ... Recycled building products including flooring tiles and cable trays ..."

 

Via:  Prairie Bunkers, LLC LINK

 

August 27, 2009

Gainesville Florida Solar Projects Lined up til 2016




GRU logo 

Gainesville Regional Utilities, Gainesville, Florida's utility pormots solar and offers assistance to businesses and residences that will install solar.

" ... energy-producing solar panels in Gainesville has skyrocketed since the city implemented its new solar incentive program ... waiting list for the program - which is the first solar feed-in tariff in the United States and offers above-market-rate prices for electricity produced by privately owned and installed solar panels - now stretches until 2016."

Between the price GRU offers for the electricity and state rebates for solar panel installation, the feed-in tariff should prove lucrative for those installing solar photovoltaics in the program.

However, the program is limited on a first-come, first-served basis to 4 new megawatts of electricity a year from solar power - more than double the megawatts produced locally a year ago.

The first change proposed Thursday would allow those people waiting in line to install solar panels in 2010 to install the panels now and be paid market rate for the energy the panels produce until the contract they've signed up for kicks in and they are able to receive the higher rate.

"We don't have anything in the program that allows us to pay them for electricity," said Ed Regan, assistant general manager of strategic planning at GRU. "If they're in the queue for 2010, a year for which we know the price, then we would let them build it early."

Another part of that is that GRU is proposing to reinstate the commercial net-metering system that was discontinued when the feed-in tariff was adopted.

Net metering allows people with solar panels to use their own electricity, and if there is any excess energy produced, GRU credits the bill.

The other changes are largely administrative in nature.

"There was a fair amount of gaming or jockeying for position that made us institute additional rules," Regan said of the somewhat unexpected rush that filled up all 4 megawatts of solar panels for the first year in a matter of days.

At least one person has challenged technical terms in the ordinance, arguing the language in the ordinance allows more solar energy to be installed every year, or that the ordinance has fixed prices out to the year 2030.

Regan recommended the commission approve language for the ordinance specifying that only 4 megawatts will be permitted in the program every year and that the ordinance should be changed so that the payout rate after the year 2010 says "to be determined."

"I think Gainesville can be proud to be on the forefront," Hunzinger said. "We have heard some criticism saying 'do not use Gainesville as a model.' To me that's personally, professionally disturbing to hear. However, I do understand there will be criticism. No good deed goes unpunished. The primary reason for implementing the (feed-in tariff) was to encourage solar PV installations in our service area."

 

Via: GRU.com  LINK

August 26, 2009

How Geothermal Works - Video




Check out this video that explains how geothermal systems work. Geothermal can be used for both heating and cooling and is close to energy free ... you only pay for the pumps and circulating system ... the heating and cooling "energy" is free and renewable. This viedo shows drillers and installers in Texas discussing geothermal systems ... Via: 5 min.com LINK

August 24, 2009

Rock Port, Missouri - 1st 100% Wind Powered City in the U.S.




wind turbines

Welcome to the 1st 100 % Wind Powered City in the U.S. !!

Rock Port, Missouri get's its renewable energy from

Wind Turbine assembly

" ... four wind turbines ... within the city limits ... Rock Port uses approximately 13 million kilowatt hours of electricity each year ... predicted that ... turbines will produce 16 million kilowatt hours each year."

"Excess ... electricity ... is expected to be move onto the transmission lines to be purchased by the Missouri Joint Municipal Utilities for use in other areas.

Location of Rock Port, Missouri"A map published by the U.S. Department of Energy indicates that northwest Missouri has the state's highest concentration of wind resources and contains a number of locations potentially suitable for utility-scale wind development."

 

 

Via: ScienceDaily LINK

August 23, 2009

Dardesheim, Germany - Renewable Energy City




The small German town of Dardesheim (fewer than 1,000) and neighbors in Halberstadt in what was East Germany "... want to become 100% renewable using solar, wind, and biomass."

" ... Four pioneering wind turbines were installed in the mid-1990s, collectively producing one million kWh per year ..."

"In 2006 they developed a 62 MW wind project comprising 28 Enercon E70s and one E112, a giant 6 MW turbine ... wind turbines will generate from 120 to 130 million kWh annually, enough to meet the needs of nearly all the 80,000 residents of the county."

" ... also installed nine different solar PV plants ... During their first year of operation the combined 380 kW of solar PV generated nearly 250,000 kWh, about one-third of the Dardesheim's domestic electricity consumption."

 

Via: Wind-Works LINK

August 22, 2009

Chicken Poop Powers 90,000 Homes




chicken-manure-biomass Animal manure is a natural by-product of raising animals ... and needs to be disposed of properly.  Improperly disposed of it can pollute water and make a smelly mess. 

Here is a way to reduce waste and re-use the manure to make enerty.

... world’s largest biomass power plant running exclusively on chicken manure has opened in the Netherlands .... will deliver renewable electricity to 90,000 households ... capacity of 36.5 megawatts, and will generate more than 270 million kWh of electricity per year."

" ... more than merely “carbon neutral” ... If ... spread out over farm land, it would release not only CO2, but also methane, a very potent greenhouse gas. ..."

" ... will utilize approximately 440,000 tons of chicken manure, roughly one third of the total amount produced each year in the Netherlands. ... European countries ... suffer under an excess of different types of animal manure that pollute the environment."

 

 

 

Via:  Meatefficient LINK

August 18, 2009

The Smart Energy Grid: What it Is and What is Can Do




The Smart Grid is coming to a utility near you. But just what is a smart grid and what does it mean for you as a consumer? This "smartplanet" video with Silver Spring Networks CTO Raj Vaswani will explain. In a nutshell ... the smart grid gives you visibility to your energy usage in real time and allows you to take advantage of more favorable times to use large chunks of energy ... and save some money. Utilities get to smooth out there load so there are fewer peaks and ideally allow them to delay building new generating capacity (time consuming, expensive and possibly polluting). Via: Smartplaner LINK

August 14, 2009

Energy Ball® Wind Turbines





Energy Ball turbineEnergy Ball is a wind turbine that generate electricity at very low speeds.  Read on for more about this Netherlands based company.

" ... low-noise turbine ... six curved rotor blades which are attached to the rotor hub with both ends ... the wind blows parallel to the rotor hub through the rotor. ..." Energy Ball turbines

"... creates a wind flow pattern that converges ... then accelerated through the rotor, resembling the rapids in a river ...translates into a higher aerodynamic efficiency compared to conventional wind turbine designs. "

" ... producing electric energy as from very low wind speeds and has therefore a very low standstill time. ..."

 

Via: Home-Energy Link

GE's Smart / Zero Energy Home




GE Zero Energy Home

Imaging a ZERO energy home.  Sound realistic? GE thinks so !

GE's “Net Zero Energy Home” ..." ... combines GE’s most efficient appliances and lighting, GE’s new energy management systems, and GE power generating and storing technologies. ... together, the system will enable a homeowner to achieve net zero energy costs by 2015."

" ... the Home Energy Manager, the central nervous system for the Net Zero Energy Home. ... smart thermostats will also be introduced ... to work in tandem with the energy manager. ... plans to develop residential power generation products like solar PV and residential wind products that will also contribute to the net zero concept."

" ... respondents in the U.S. and ... in the U.K. say they are willing to pay an increased monthly rate for smart grid technology if there is a corresponding reduction in overall energy costs by 15 percent."

 

Via:  GE  LINK

August 02, 2009

PSE&G to Double Solar Capacity with "Solar 4 All"




PSEG pole mounted solar cells

 PSE&G, a New Jersey based utility, will double its current solar capacity with a program called "Solar 4 All."

Components of the program are (1) utility pole mounted solar cells and (2) roof top solar installations.

"... invest $515 million in 80 megawatts of solar projects ... creating green jobs ... expects to complete the installations by the end of 2013."PSE&G logo

" ... installing a solar unit ... on 200,000 utility poles in PSE&G’s service territory ... the largest pole-attached solar installation in the world ... power ... sold into the PJM wholesale grid."

" ... effectively double the size of New Jersey’s installed solar capacity ... more solar capacity than ... any state other than California ..."


Via: PSE&G LINK

July 27, 2009

Berkeley California Solar Map




Berkeley, California Solar Map

Berkeley, California is into solar and wants to help residents and businesses make the move to solar.   To help they offer two tools ...

> One tool is a solar portal that allows property owners to look at their roof and determine both the solar potential and the cost. 

>A second tool provides financing paid by by taxes

" ... Solar Mapping ... estimate the solar potential of their rooftops and view existing solar installations. ... get an estimated size of a photovoltaic (PV) system that would fit ... obtain detailed information on tax rebates and choose from a listing of available installers ... map reflects elements such as rooftop structures, the slant of the roof, shading ... and ... azimuth of the sun for PV panel placement."

" ... Berkeley FIRST program, a solar finance program ... provides property owners an opportunity to borrow money ... and repay the financing through property tax bills."

 

 

 Via:  MatterNetwork LINK

July 10, 2009

Algenol Biofuels - Direct to Ethanol Technology





algenolbiofuels logoMost of the bio fuel processes are require significant amounts of petroleum energy (i.e. to grow the basic crop like corn) or to power the process.  Algenol is totally different ... it does not compete in a food vs/ biofuel stock like corn.

"...introducing its DIRECT TO ETHANOL™ technology ... an innovative algae to ethanol compaAlgenol process flowny ... advanced 3rd generation biofuels technology producing ethanol from algae through a process powered by the sun ... industrial-scale, low-cost ethanol using algae, sunlight, CO2, and seawater.... does not use food, farmland, or fresh water."

Some of the advantages of the Algenol process are"  ...  [can] use desert land and marginal land ... make fresh water from seawater during the process. ... an energy balance over 8 : 1 (energy output : fossil fuel input) ...".

 

Via:  Algenol Biofuels  Link

 

 

July 02, 2009

Fat Spaniel - Monitor Solar PV Systems in Real Time




Fat Spaniel logo

Fat Spaniel Technologies provides real time monitoring of your solar PV system.  Read their case studies of Jay Leno's car garage and SF International Airport.  

Track your actual generation / performance and see ... "... display total power generated by ... day, week, month, or year ... local irradiance, cell temperature, and ambient temperature ... avoided greenhouse gases (CO2, NOx and Sox) over the lifetime ..."

It can be used to proactively guide behavior changes ... " Generate Energy Fat Spaniel Insight Manager screenSavings Via Behavior Modification ..." ... Educate ... by publishing real-time and historical data ... Cut electricity usage up to 10% by changing habits of building occupants ..."

 " ... Fat Spaniel provides ... an industrial-grade, Software-as-a-Service renewable energy plant management system that enables plant operators to: ... Manage renewable energy plants in real-time ... Communicate and interact with mobile personnel ... Generate revenue utilizing back-end services for regulatory agency reporting, renewable energy certificate (REC) registration, and environmental reporting"

 

Via: Fat Spaniel Technologies LINK
 

July 01, 2009

Zwahlen's Ice Cream Goes Green With SRS Energy's Sole Power Tile




Zwahlens Ice Cream and Chocholate

 Zwahlen's is a local (Audubon PA) ice cream and chocolate establishment that just so happens to have the first commercial use of SRS Energy's Sole Power Tile Roof.

I was driving past the store last evening when my son told me about the sign on the front that  said --- something along the lines "the best ice cream under the sun is now powered by the sun".  I needed to check this out ... SRS logo

" SRS Energy, ...installed ... the first building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) roofing product designed for curved roofing systems, ... the first commercial installation of the Sole Power Tile(TM) system  ..."

"T...a great example of how time-tested traditions and cutting-edge technology can meet to create something beautiful," said Marty Low, CEO of SRS Energy and owner of Zwahlen's. "

" ... designed to blend seamlessly with several styles of US Tile's clay tiles, providing energy without the use of traditional solar panels that can compromise a building's roofline and curb appeal. ... preserves Zwahlen's charming Swiss chalet look."

"SRS Energy recently introduced the Sole Power Tile(TM) system to the greater Philadelphia region at the PV America show, held at the Pennsylvania Convention center during the week of June 7, 2009."

SRS Energy's Sole Power Tile can generate 500 Watts per sq ft.

 

Via:  EarthTimes  LINK

Via:  SRS Energy  LINK

June 19, 2009

Nokia Prototype self charging phone in Development





Nokia proto type self charging phone

Imaging a cell phone that is self powering ... ?

Nokia has something in the works that might just achieve that goal though it is a ew years off and not likely to be scalable for largeer appliances ,,, but you never know whaqt advances in technology might bring ...

... "...a cell phone that recharges itself ... harvests ambient radio waves from the air, and turns that energy into usablNokia logoe power. Enough, at least, to keep a cell phone from running out of juice.

" ... ambient electromagnetic energy is never going to ... power your whole house or office, but it just might be enough to keep a cell phone alive ... enough to slowly recharge the cell phone battery while it's in standby mode, theoretically offering infinite power ..." 

 

Via:  Yahoo News  LINK

June 15, 2009

Energy-Inc. - Profitable Solution to a Zero Carbon Footprint





Energy-Inc.

 

John O'Hurley ... of Seinfield fame as J. Peterman ... has co-founded Energy-Inc.   The Las Vegas, Nevada company has a variety of services and technologies for producing power from waste ...

>>> Their tagline is ... a profitable solution to a zero carbon footprint. 

>>> Their message is Waste to Energy rather than waste to landfills.

 

They design, build and manage waste to power systems. Rather than paying to dispose of waste you can turn it into power ... Listen to the video for more ... and see how they plan to make landfills obsolete. They guarantee performance and up to 100% financing ...

 

Via:: Energy-Inc. Link

June 09, 2009

Dow Captures Solar Power with DOWTHERM




sloar panels There are multiple approaches to using solar to create power ... one option is PV (photovoltaic) where panels convert sunlight directly to DC current ... another is CSP (concentrated solar power).

CSP is a form of solar power that uses mirrors to focus the suns rays on panels ... these panels have a heat transfer fluid in them that then is used to generate steam which drives a trubine to produce electricity.

>>> Basically a nuclear type approach with solar replacing the nuclear energy source.

" ... mirrors to reflect and concentrate sunlight onto receivers ... DOWTHERM™ ... heat transfer fluids collect the heat ... converts water to steam, which in turn drives turbines to make electricity.  ... DOWTHERM™ A, has the high temperature stability required to collect, transport, and store that solar generated heat."


" ... Dow ... commitment and leadership in energy efficiency ...  Over the last 14 years, Dow's efforts to conserve power globally have resulted in saving more than 1,600 trillion BTU's of energy and prevented the release of about 86 million metric tons of carbon dioxide."

 

Via:  Dow Chemical Company  LINK

May 28, 2009

Nellis AFB Solar Array - 30 million kWh System




POTUS Oboma at  Nellis with Solar PanelsMay 27th, 2009 - Nellis AFB - Nevada.

U.S. president Obama went to Nellis AFB to see " ... the nation's largest photovoltaic array and speak ... about the importance of alternative energy initiatives. ... highlighted Nellis' 14-megawatt solar project as a stellar example of environmental stewardship and innovative energy technology."

Facts about the Nellis system:
Solar panels at Nellis AFB
" ... completed in December of 2007, is America's largest solar photovoltaic array. ... will generate more than 30 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of clean electricity annually and supply approximately 25% of the total power used at the base, ... covers 140 acres ... 33 acres of which are a capped landfill which has been reused for this "green" energy project.  ... over 72,000 solar panels which track the sun to maximize the solar renewable energy we can receive. ... will reduce carbon emissions by 24,000 tons annually."


Via:  WhiteHouse.gov  Link

Via:  Nellis  Air Force Base Link

Continue reading "Nellis AFB Solar Array - 30 million kWh System" »

May 21, 2009

U.S. Geothermal Energy Technology, Finance, and Development Workshop




Geothermal Energy Association logo

The U.S. Geothermal Energy Technology, Finance and Development Workshop will be held June 3rd, 2009 in Seattle, Washington.

Geothermal is becoming more popular as a renewable source of clean energy ... LINK

" ... U.S. Geothermal Energy Association is a trade association composed of U.S. companies who support the expanded use of geothermal energy and are developing geothermal Resources worldwide for electrical power generation and direct-heat uses."

" ... GEA advocates for public policies that will promote the development and utilization of geothermal Resources, provides a forum for the industry to discuss issues and problems, encourages research and development to improve geothermal technologies, presents industry views to governmental organizations, provides assistance for the export of geothermal goods and services, compiles "

 

Via:  U.S. Geothermal Energy Association LINK

May 20, 2009

Nevada Goes Geothermal




Pictorial: How Geothermal Works

The western part of the US has a large geothermal potential ... as ween from the map below ... the red areas have temperatures of over 100 C.  Nevada Geothermal Power is making the most of this potential ...basically energy free energy ... geothermal map of the US

Read on for more >>> 

"Nevada Geothermal Power Inc. ... emerging renewable energy developer focused on producing clean, sustainable geothermal electric power from high temperature geothermal resources. ... has four properties in ... Blue Mountain , Pumpernickel, and Black Warrior - in Nevada - and Crump Geyser - in Oregon."

" ... Nevada has over 16 power plants, with ...approximately 333 MW of geothermal power. ...Geothermal is not the future; geothermal is NOW!" Nevada Geothermal Power logo

Geothermall is / has  " ...  Clean, renewable electricity, Low or no emissions. Proven technology, No fuel required; energy cost not an issue, Low operating costs ..."

 

Via:  Nevada Geothermal Power  LINK

April 12, 2009

Fuji Mercury, Cadmium and PVC Free Battery





Fuji Enviro'MAX battery

" ... Fuji EnviroMAX™ batteries bring a long-overdue dimension of eco-responsibility to the replacement battery market ... at no added cost....EnviroMAX batteries equal, and most often exceed the performance and longevity of equivalent major brands. ... There is nothing inside a Fuji EnviroMAX battery that will harm the environment if it is disposed of through normal waste systems. ... contain no harmful mercury, cadmium - nor are they packaged with dangerous (and non-recyclable) PVC plastic. ...  most of all resources used ... are reused and recycled...are labeled and packaged with recycled paper and P.E.T. plastic. ..."

 

 

Via:  FUJI  Link

April 03, 2009

Go Green Expo ... NYC and Atlanta





Go Green Expo logoGo Green Expo for NYC (April 17 - 19) and Atlanta (June 26 - 28) are on the way.  Go Green Expo has already been to LA and Philadelphia ...

 

The Green Dude and Green Tech both visited the Phila show and came away impressed by the information available.  Among the neat things I saw were ... Go Greeen NYC

- solar powered garbage can ... when the trash level crosses a light beam it is crushed down ... it can be equipped with a wireless devise to alert  you when full ...

- paper made from elephant dung ... used for business cards and fine writing paper ...  Go Green Expo Atlanta

- several manufacturers of dry cleaner garment bags ... you take your dry cleaning to the cleaners in these bags and they are returned in the same bag -- eliminating the need for plastic bags.  There were several models available ... from organic cotton to bags made with recycled plastic bags (though a much heavier fabric).

 

>>> QUESTION to our readers ... I am considering getting one of the dry cleaner bags (permanent end to plastic bags) ... have any of you tried these and how hove your cleaners responded?

 

Via:  Go Green Expo   LINK

San Francisco Green Initiatives




Gavin Newson, mayor of SF, shares his thoughts on how the city can reduce emissions and become more green and environmentally friendly ... maybe even be the electric car capital of ... the US? Video below ... At the Green: Net '09 Conference in San Francisco, Mayor Gavin Newsom lays out the city's future plans for reducing emissions even further. He explains the city's current electric-car project, and the coming green initiatives of wave technology and tidal-flow generators--a steady stream of energy, he says, that will come right from San Francisco Bay. Via: ZDNet Link

March 09, 2009

Green Certified Site - Making Website GREEN




 CO2 stats logo

Want to support GREEN energy with your web site? 

CO2 stats Logo

Check out CO2 stats ...

"CO2Stats is the only service that automatically calculates your website's total energy consumption, helps to make it more energy efficient, and then purchases audited renewable energy from wind and solar farms to neutralize its footprint carbon ..."

" ...Neutralize your site's carbon footprint with audited renewable energy.... With CO2Stats, your visitors can see live reports on your site's CO2 emissions.

 

Via:  CO2stats LINK

March 03, 2009

VerandaSolar - Possible Easy to Install Solar Systems




 Veranda Solar panels

Solar panels are a promising alternative energy solution ... VerandaSolar takes the basic concept and brings ease of installation for the average person to install themselves.Easy to instal VerandaSolar panel

Read on for more on this interesting idea >>> 

"Veranda Solar makes affordable ... solar panels that hang out your window or clip to gutters and balconies. ... easy installation saves you half the cost of traditional panels. ... snap together. Now you can make the decision to go solar and hook up your house, all in a single afternoon."

" ... was launched at Stanford University in spring of 2008 ... are currently in a start-up phase and hope to offer panels and flexible inverters on the market in spring of 2009. "

 

Via:  Veranda Solar  LINK

February 23, 2009

UK Wind Turbine Test Bed ...




A UK farm in the Midland is bieng used to test a number of wind to energy devices ... shows a wind turbine imported from Holland ... information gleaned from tests here will be used for manufacturers to improve their models ... Via: YouTube LINK

February 09, 2009

Green Power Express Transmission Grid




ITC Holdings has developed a power transmission network, dubbed the Green Power Express, which will support the movement of 12,000 megawatts of renewable energy from wind power in the Dakotas, Minnesota and Iowa. ...
... "This project will be an integral component to ITC's efforts to create a high-voltage backbone that can meet America's renewable energy goals and eliminate costly inefficiencies in the grid. The Green Power Express transmission project will traverse portions of North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, Illinois and Indiana and will ultimately include approximately 3,000 miles of extra high-voltage (765kV) transmission. The entire project is currently estimated to cost approximately $10 to 12 billion. Portions of the Green Power Express fall within the service territory of ITC Midwest, an ITC subsidiary. ITC has been working with many of the Upper Midwest wind developers over the last year in assembling a realistic accounting of their wind development plans and sites, which resulted in the design of the Green Power Express. As ITC continues to work with wind developers and other local utilities in the region to identify their project needs, there may be additional lines and stations identified that would effectively accumulate the available wind generation within the region. " ...
Via ITC Holdings: Project facilitates movement of 12,000 MW of energy from wind rich areas

Continue reading "Green Power Express Transmission Grid" »

February 08, 2009

Renewable Energy World Conference - March 10 - 12: Las Vegas




Renewable Energy World Conference & Expo North America logo

The 6th Renewable Energy World Conference is March 10 - 12 in Las Vegas, Nevada. 

 " ... Renewable Energy World Conference & Expo North America (formerly POWER-GEN Renewable Energy & Fuels) ... now in its 6th year ... offers a worldwide audience who will hear papers, panel discussions and presentations during technical sessions related to technology, markets, business strategies and policy covering the wind, solar, biomass, hydro, geothermal, ocean/tidal/wave, bio-power, bio-fuels hydrogen and energy sectors. ... Connecting 5,000 renewable energy power professionals with 300 exhibitors for three days of networking, new business negotiation and the exchange of important ideas and information impacting the renewable energy industry today.

Listen to why YOU should attend ... .

Via: Renewable Energy World Conference & Expo North America Link

February 03, 2009

Voice Powered Mobile Phones ?




Pizeo electric

Cell phones that can convert the sound of your voice into energy to run the phone may be coming ... Research at Texas A&M by Tahir Cagin is getting closer to self powered devices like cell phones "... converts sound waves ... into the energy it needs to keep running. ...Utilizing ..."piezoelectrics," ...  a certain type of piezoelectric material can covert energy at a 100 percent increase when manufactured at a very small size – in this case, around 21 nanometers in thickness.
photo of Tahir Cagin - Texas A&M Ehem E
" ...  piezoelectrics are materials (usually crystals or ceramics) that generate voltage when a form of mechanical stress is applied. "


Via:  Texas A&M Chemical Engineering  LINK

January 29, 2009

Storing Wind Power for Later Use





Iowa Stored Energy Park - diagramThere are several "limitations" to wind power --- one is that the source is concentrated far from the using population (issue with transmission).  Another is that wind is available when demand for power is not; so there for the need to "store the wind energy".

Check out this possible solution from Iowa ...

" ... municipal utilities ...are planning to build a new energy park that would integrate a 75-150 megawatt wind farm with Compressed Air Energy Storage (CAES) technology."

" ... Iowa Stored Energy Park (ISEP), will use ... wind energy that is not being sold on the grid at that time -Iowa Stored Wind Park Location- to store air in an underground geologic structure of porous rock. ... as demand for electricity rises, the stored air will be released, heated, and used to drive generators -- in turn producing electricity for residents in Iowa, Minnesota and the Dakotas."

"F ... hopes that construction on the park will commence in two years. ... expected to be fully operational and providing electricity to Iowa and surrounding states by May 2011."

Via:  Renewable Energy World Link

January 01, 2009

New Solar Panel Technology Concentrated PhotoVoltaics (CPV)





SolFocus logo... using innovative optics ... SolFocus systems dramatically reduce the amount of expensive and often supply-constrained solar material used in the system."SolFocus solar panel

"SolFocus CPV solar panels are the only CPV technology listed by the California Energy Commission as qualified for California Solar Initiative (CSI) incentives. ... panels are constructed primarily of readily available and cost-effective materials such as aluminum and glass resulting in systems which are over 95-percent recyclable. ...has a very low carbon footprint in manufacturing and short energy payback period. "


Via:  SolFocus  Link

December 22, 2008

Excelon to be Carbon Neutral by 2020: 3 Prong Road Map




Excelon 2020

Excelon, whose PECO subsidiary servers Pennsylvania; has stated that they want to be carbon neutral by the year 2020.Excelon logo

" ... goal is to reduce, offset or displace more than 15 million metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions per year by 2020.  ... more than our current annual carbon footprint ... equivalent to taking nearly 3 million cars off our roads ... a three-pronged strategy ..."


" ... Reduce or offset Exelon's carbon footprint by greening our operations ... Help our customers and the communities we serve reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. ... Offer more low-carbon electricity in the marketplace."

 

Via:  Excelon  LINK

December 10, 2008

Eco Hand Powered Media Player




eco media player 

High tech media player meet low tech hand cranked "power supply"?  Green powered media player?

" ... Eco Media Player ...music, ...movie clips ... .FM radio  ... without the need for external power or expensive and environmentally harmful batteries."

"One minute of winding ... provides up to 45 minutes play time, ..."u're on holiday abroad or commuting to and from work, the Eco Media Player is the ideal personal entertainment solution.

 

Via:  ecomediaplayer  LINK

December 07, 2008

Philadelphia's Solar Powered Chrismas Tree Lights





solar powered Chrostmas Tree Lights" ... Christmas tree at 3rd and Poplar Streets in Northern Liberties [Philadelphia, Pa] is 40-feet-tall, and it's lit by solar panels ..."

" ... sponsored by the Northern Liberties Business Owners Association,... a nice twist for the neighborhood especially being a neighborhood developed by artists and folks that really focus on alternative methods ... after they're done with it, it will be chipped and used as mulch ..."

 

Via:  KYW1060.com LINK

November 29, 2008

Solar Panels in Spanish Cemetary





Solar Panels on Spanish mausoleums"Santa Coloma de Gramanet, near Barcelona [Spain] , has placed 462 solar panels over its multi-storey mausoleums. ... the scheme was initially greeted with derision, but families who use the cemetery eventually supported the idea ... are now plans to erect more panels at the cemetery and triple the amount of electricity generated.Solar Panels in Spanish cemetary

" ... installation cost 720,000 euros (£608,000) but will keep about 62 tonnes of carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere every year, 

" ...solar panels cover less than 5% of the total surface area of the cemetery, ... Santa Coloma de Gramanet - has four other solar parks, mostly on top of buildings, but the cemetery is by far the largest"

 

Via:  BBC News  Link

 

November 26, 2008

California Academy of Science - Greenest Museum?




The California Academy of Sciences is an example of GREN design - from solar cells, to green roof, to skylights to reused literature ... See the Video for more ... Via: ZDNet LINK

November 19, 2008

Vatican Solar Panels




Vatican Solar Panels

" ...the first solar panels have been installed on the Paul VI auditorium at the Vatican. ... BBC News reports Pope Benedict has become the first pontiff to harness solar power to provide energy for the Vatican."

"Roof tiles on the Paul VI auditorium, ...  are being replaced by 2,700 solar panels ... photovoltaic cells ... generating enough power to light, heat or cool the 6,000 seat hall ..."


" .... When ... not in use, the surplus energy produced will reportedly be fed into the Vatican's power network."

 

Via:  CathNews.com  Link

October 03, 2008

CEZ to Build Wind Farm in Romania





Wind Farm - Turbines

"Czech power group CEZ plans to build a 1.1 billion euro ($1.62 billion) wind park in Romania, the largest of its kind in Europe ... the two-stage, 600 megawatt project ...  north of the port of Constanta, and would be around twice the size of the next biggest onshore wind farm in Europe."

" ... half the wind park would come on line in 2009 and the rest a year later, ..."

" CEZ has some 80 wind farms in the Czech Republic at various stage of completion, with a total capacity of 150-220 MW, and the company plans to have 1,000 MW installed capacity in wind farms by 2020."

 

Via:  Reuters  Link

October 02, 2008

bullfrog GREEN POWER




bullfrog power logo

"Founded in 2005, Bullfrog Power is a leading provider of 100% green electricity, with service available to Ontario and Alberta residents and businesses. ... power comes from clean, green sources like wind power and low-impact water power. ... generators have received Environment Canada’s Environmental Choice Program EcoLogoM certification.

" ... committed to increasing the amount of green power on our regional electricity grid systems in Canada by helping to develop new renewable generation facilities. ..."

 

Via: bullfrogPower   Link

September 22, 2008

Exelon Using Boidiesel and Hybrids




Exelon Logo
Exelon, a major energy supplier in the northeast and in Philadelphia (via PECO), has committed to using Biodiesel and Hybrids.  

Read on for more  >>>

"Exelon continues to be a major voluntary user of B20 biodiesel  ... the main source of fuel for more than 2,500 of the company's  vehicles—or 65 percent of its fleet. ... Exelon uses in excess of 2 million gallons per year. ... In 2005, Exelon purchased 50 Ford Escape Hybrids, the first production hybrid sport-utility vehicle (SUV).  ... about 25 percent of the company’s overall SUV fleet. ... expects to procure 50 hybrid SUVs and 10 compressed natural gas (CNG) or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) vehicles each year and to use biodiesel for all diesel vehicles by the end of 2006."


Via:  PewClimate.org  Link

September 17, 2008

Ocean Power




Ocean Power Technologies - bouy

Ocean Power Technologies is testing a buoy that harnesses wave energy to make power  ... unlike off shore turbines  theses are close to the ground and are hardly visible ... eliminating the "not in my backyard problem" from shore communities.

" ... a leading renewable energy company specializing in cost-effective, advanced, and environmentally sound offshore wave power technology. ... PowerBuoy® system extracts the natural energy in ocean waves,... is a “smart” system capable of responding to differing wave conditions."

" ... ocean trials have been conducted off the coast of New Jersey to demonstrate the concept of using a floating buoy to capture wave energy and convert it into electricity. ..."

 

 

 

Via:  Ocean Power Technologies  Link

July 14, 2008

fryOdiesel




FryOdiesel logo

fryOdiesel takes a waste produict - one that restauratns and other inductries have to PAY TO get ride of and turns it in to a profitable fuels ... reducing wates and turning trash into cash.

"PFoD has developed patent-pending technology for the production of high quality diesel fuel from fats, oils, and greases. ... produce ASTM-grade biodiesel from sewer trap grease and other waste greases."
" ...fats, oils, and grease in the wastewater system is a costly problem ... causi
fryOdiesel pilot plantng sewer backups and resulting in millions of dollars of fines and billions of dollars of forced infrastructure upgrades."

"PFoD solves the problem of grease in the sewers by providing a beneficial reuse of what is now a costly pollutant."

fryOdiesel is based in Philadelphia, Pa.

Via:  fryOdiesel   Link

Continue reading "fryOdiesel" »

July 10, 2008

Wave Power




The ocean seems to have an endless amount if energy so it makes sense to want to harness it. Watch the video to see what SF California's mayor has in mind ... for wave and tidal energy


"San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom believes tapping into tidal and wave power is a swell idea. But how feasible and realistic is this new renewable-energy technology? CNET News.com's Kara Tsuboi sits down with the mayor to find out." Via: ZDNet Link

Honda Hydrogen Infrastructure




Honda home eneryy station

One of the factors needed for H2 powered cars is the H2 Infrastructure ... something along the lines of today's gasoline / diesel stations. v After all without a way to  get H2 there is not much sense in a H2 powered car ...

Honda has an idea to  help this along ... "...experience in the development of power stations ... as well as experience with home-refueled electric and natural gas vehicles. ... a natural next step ... to explore potential solutions to the hydrogen refueling ..."Honda logo


Via:  Honda  Link

July 08, 2008

Solar Cells on a Prius??




Toyota Prius

Toyota may add solar cells totheir curent Prius hybrid .. truth or rumor it is an intersting idea.

Read on for details >>> small solar cells

" ... solar panels on some models of its popular Prius hybrid car, according to news reports Monday. The panels, made by Kyocera, would help power the air conditioner."

"Details are sketchy. ... Nikkei financial newspaper of Japan and the Reuters international news service reported the story ... Toyota refused to confirm or deny the reports ..."

It is questionable how much power solar cells can provide for a car but there is some possibility ...
" solar could still prove useful for running electric auxiliaries. ... run a small ventilation fan while the car was parked during the day. That would keep the car cabin from turning into an inferno that the air conditioner would struggle to cool once the driver returned." 

Via:  SFGate  Link

July 01, 2008

Honda FCX Clarity - First Mass Production Fuel Cell Car




Honda LogoHonda's Clarity is slated to be the first hydrogen powered car to be mass produced.

Fuel cells are not new .... though they are relatively a new idea for cars ... one lingering problem is the INFRASTRUCTURE needed to make these cars viable.  Read on for more about this as well >>>

How do Fuel Cells work and what are their advantages ... Read on for more >>> 

" ...hydrogen fuel cell produces electricity ... electricity then powers the electric motor, which in turn drives the front wheels. Water vapor and heat are the only byproducts."
 
The fuel cell is in the purple circle in the car shown to the right >>
 
The more technical details ....
" ... Hydrogen fuel is fed into the anode of the fuel cell. ... hydrogen molecules are split into electrons and protons. ...Electrons are channeled through a circuit to produce electricity. ...Protons pass through the polymer electrolyte membrane. ...Oxygen ... enters the cathode and combines with the electrons and protons to form water. ...water vapor and heat are released as byproducts of this reaction."
 

Via:  Honda  Link

Continue reading "Honda FCX Clarity - First Mass Production Fuel Cell Car" »

June 27, 2008

FPL to Build New Solar Facilities




FPL Logo

Florida is called the sunshine state and utility Florida Power and Light is making good use of the sunshine ... DeSoto Facility

Read on for more >>>  

June 25, 2008 - Miami, Florida "... today announced new solar energy projects that include the world’s largest photovoltaic solar plant and first “hybrid” energy center, coupling solar thermal technology with an existing combined-cycle generation unit."

“Pending regulatory approval, ... 110 megawatts of solar power ... making Florida No. 2 in the nation for solar energy... ,”

Marin FacilityIncluding previously announced projects ... these are:

"... DeSoto Next Generation Solar Energy Center.  ...in DeSoto County, Fla., ... will provide 25 megawatts of photovoltaic solar capacity, making it the world’s largest photovoltaic solar facility."
 
"... Martin Next Generation Solar Energy Center. ... at FPL’s existing Martin Plant site, ... will provide up to 75 megawatts of solar thermal capacity in an innovative “hybrid” design that will connect to an existing combined-cycle power plant ... "Spacecoast Facility
 
" ... Space Coast Next Generation Solar Energy Center. ... will provide 10 megawatts of photovoltaic solar capacity in an innovative public-private partnership. 


Via:  FPL News  Link

 

Continue reading "FPL to Build New Solar Facilities" »

June 26, 2008

Sanyo's Solar Ark




Sanyo Logo

 

"The Solar Ark, a unique, ark-shaped, solar photovoltaic power generation facility, offers activities to cultivate a better appreciation of solar power generation, and thereby of both ecology and science. ... is located in Gifu Prefecture, ... of Japan ..." Sanyo Solar Ark

" ... at the center of the Solar Ark is the Solar Lab, a museum of solar energy and one of the more unusual museums in the world. ..."

"Since the Solar Ark was created, we have accumulated data on the power-generating performance of the photovoltaic system. At the photovoltaic conference in Europe, the thesis we delivered analyzing that data received an excellent response ..."

solar ark logo

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Via:  Solar Ark  Link

Continue reading "Sanyo's Solar Ark" »

June 16, 2008

Green Data Centers




Green House Dta Logo

Wyoming's first wind powered data center uses 100% renewable energy and was built built with efficiency in mind a

Green Datas House' data center " ...  is 60% more energy efficient than the average."

Wyoming green data cener

 

Wind Energy "100% Renewable Energy ...  powered by wind ... will own several wind turbines to the north of its facility and purchase the excess energy needs from the local power company's wind farm or through grid tied green-e tags"

" ... the largest wind powered public data center in the nation with over 10,000 square feet of high-density computing facilities. "

Energy Efficiency "Energy Efficiency Built In ...Water-Side Economizers: Free cooling from Cheyenne's average annual temperatures of 45.6 degrees. ...Ground Source Heat Pumps - provide up to 25% more energy efficient cooling than traditional HVAC cooling equipment.(Phase 2)."

 

Via:  Green House Data Link

June 11, 2008

Learn More About Wind Energy ... Links




wind turbine

Here are some links for more information about Wind Energy.  These came from Good Energy, a UK based 100% renewable energy provider.

Here is a wind energy fact from Good Energy (might only apply to a typical household in the UK but significant nonetheless ... "A typical 850KW turbine ... could provide the amount of power used by 500 homes or to boil 28 million pints of water or run a computer for 7 million hours - that's 810 years."

 

www.good-energy.co.uk

www.sec.eu.com

www.bwea.com

www.embracewind.com

www.yes2wind.com

www.westmill.coop

www.scottishrenewables.com

www.windpower.org

www.fi.edu

 

Via:  Good Energy  Link

June 10, 2008

Good Energy - 100% Green Energy for Britian




Good Energy Logo Good Energy is a provider of various sources of GREEN energy from all over Britain  They make it easy for the homeowner or business to lower their impact on the environment by cutting CO2 emissions from power generation.

All their energy " ... comes from wind, small scale hydro and solar power generators from all over Britain. ... either small or medium sized sites  ... Home Generation scheme supports the smaller generator and home owner.

" ...we offer both our supply and purchasing products. We are always on the lookout for new ways we can help you reduce your impact on climate change."
Good Energy Info
Formed in 1999 they currently serve approx. 24,0000 customers.

Their current power mix is " ...  generators in Cornwall, Devon, Cumbria, the Midlands, North Wales and Scotland.... approximately 92% wind power, 7% small hydro and 1% solar. We also own our own wind farm at Delabole in Cornwall."

 

 

Via:  Good Energy  Link

Continue reading "Good Energy - 100% Green Energy for Britian" »

June 09, 2008

Mackie's - Scotland's Wind Powered Ice Cream Company




Mackies of Scotland

Mackie's (of Scotland) makes all natural ice cream ... right down to the wind powered energy.

" ... have their own energy supply - three Vestas V52 wind turbines  ... have a 45 metre turbine and three 25 metre blades ... capacity to produce 850KW of power - so a total capacity at the farm of 2.5 MW."Mackie's Wind Turbine

".... previously installed a smaller turbine which powered the business's former piggery unit until 1997. That was one of the first grid connected wind turbines in the UK but did not have a very large output."

Image of Windmill on ice cream tubs

" ... wind turbines makes good sense for our business because our consumers have told us that it is important for them to know that our ice cream is made with 100% renewable energy. ..."

"The ice cream tubs show a wind turbine icon with the declaration "made with 100% renewable energy". ...  part of their ongoing commitment to have a carbon neutral site and become the greenest company in Britain."

 

Via:  Mackie's   LINK

 

 

 

 

Continue reading "Mackie's - Scotland's Wind Powered Ice Cream Company" »

June 07, 2008

Wind Farm FAQs




wind turbines Wind Farms are a clean source of renewable energy.  Ever wonder Just what a wind farm is ... Read on for more >>>


WHAT:  A wind farm is " ...  a cluster of wind turbines. ... the blades collect the wind’s kinetic energy. Wind flows over the airfoil shaped blades causing ... causing them to turn. ... are connected to a drive shaft that turns an electric generator to produce electricity."wind turbine schematic

TIME TO BUILD:  " ...actual construction time ... is much less than a conventional power plant. The Wege Wind Energy Farm ( Link ) see took less than six months to build." ... land at a wind farm still be used for farming ... Farming and cattle grazing can go on right up to the turbine footprint. ... "

NEGATIVES:  "There used to be concern about wind turbines causing a lot of bird deaths, but studies show that’s not the case. The largest drawback seems to be their effect on the natural view of the landscape. To some, wind turbines are an eyesore; to others they’re majestic, a pleasant alternative to a conventional
power plant.

WHERE ARE THEY IN THE US:  " ... 25 [states have wind turbines in operation] ... Most are in California, Texas, Iowa, Minnesota, and Oklahoma, where state policies encourage wind power development and wind speeds are high and consistent."

 

Via:  Steelcase  Link

June 06, 2008

Fuel Cell Kit for a Green Fathers Day




fuel cell kit

Want to help dad learn move about fuel cells ... and give a neat father's day gift? 

Then check this out >>>

" ... kit lets you build your own Fuel Cell car and then watch it travel across the room powered only by water. ..."

" ... also comes with experiments and demonstrations that you can do on your own, or with friends."

" ... can build your own experimental reversible fuel cell car to learn more about this energy source. ... learn how a reversible fuel cell works to perform electrolysis as well as to create energy. The electricity required to activate electrolysis is created with a large solar cell included with the kit. During electrolysis, water is separated into hydrogen and oxygen and the resulting energy is stored as a gas. When needed, the gas is fed into the fuel cell, which then serves as the power source."

Pretty Cool ... for the Green Dad in your family ...

 

Via:  Terrapass.com   Link

June 05, 2008

Steelcase's Wege Wind Farm




steelcase windfarmSteelcase manufactures furniture.  They also sponsored a windfarm?!?

Read on for more >>>>

Operations are planned to start in the spring of 2008; the "farm" is near Panhandle, Texas, Steelcase is the "soleSteelcase Wind Farm sponsor of this farm, Steelcase will be the largest buyer of wind power in the furniture industry."

"Steelcase is making a tangible contribution to a wind farm before it’s operational and will support it after it’s up and running. ... a much closer relationship with this project than a typical renewable energy investor ...,”

The turbines " ... standing 243 feet high will produce enough power for nearly 3,000 homes in the Panhandle area without using any fuel and without producing any emissions or pollution.... plenty of room for wheat and grain sorghum to grow underneath the quietly turning blades. The stars will remain easy to see over Panhandle, Texas."

For Steelcase " ... the wind farm is a natural evolution of its commitment made nearly a century ago to be stewards of the environment. ... complements its on-going energy reduction efforts. In North America alone, the company has cut electricity usage by over 30% in the past 5 years."

 

 

Via:  Steelcase  Link

May 02, 2008

Bio Solar Solar Cells ....




bio solar logo

California based Bio Solar has a different slant on making solar cells ... rather than focusing on improving the efficiency they focus on reducing the cost and using non petroleum based materials.

Read on for more ... >>> 

" ...developed a breakthrough technology to produce bio-based materials from renewable plant sources that will reduce the cost per watt of solar cells. ... is the first company to introduce a new dimension of cost reduction by replacing petroleum-based plastic solar cell components with durable bio-based components."Bio Solar thin film substrate diagram

"... BioSolar materials can be used directly in conventional manufacturing systems, such as injection molding and thin-film roll-to-roll, to create superstrate layer, substrate layer, backsheet as well as module and panel components."
solar panels

" ... using crystalline silicon, amorphous silicon or other solar technologies, BioSolar can help reduce the cost per watt through the use of its lower cost bio-based materials."

"By removing petroleum from solar cells, BioSolar makes solar energy a true green source of energy."

 

Via:  Bio Solar   Link

May 01, 2008

Philadelphia Phillies Go Green !!




Phillies Logo

 

"Officals from Major League Baseball, the ... (EPA), the ... (NRDC), Green-e Energy and WindStreet Energy, ... joined the Phillies in announcing a major initiative at Citizens Bank Park to aid in the efforts for a cleaner environment."

" To offset the carbon footprint created ... the Phillies have purchased 20 million kilowatt-hours of Green-e Energy Certified Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs). According to the EPA, this is the largest single purchase of 100% renewable energy in professional sports and is equivalent to the planting of 100,000 trees."

"The Phillies are the first Major League Baseball team to join the EPA's Green Power Partnership (GPP) program, ... According to the EPA, the team is the third largest Green Power Partner in Philadelphia and seventh largest Green Power Partner in Pennsylvania."Citizen's Bank Ballpark

 

Via:  PhiladelphiaPhillies.com  Link 

Nokia Eco Sensor Concept Phone -- Looking Green!




Nokia Logo Nokia has an intersting "concept" phone that incorporates some green thinking ... Nokia Eco Concept Phone

Read on for more >>>

" ... two parts – a wearable sensor unit which can sense and analyze your environment, health, and local weather conditions, and a dedicated mobile phone. "

"... sensor ... made from solar cells that provide power to the sensors. ..."

" ...phone and the sensor unit will be as compact as possible to minimize material use, and those materials used in the design will be renewable and/or reclaimed. Technologies used inside the phone and sensor unit will also help save energy."

 

Via:  Nokia   Link

Continue reading "Nokia Eco Sensor Concept Phone -- Looking Green!" »

April 30, 2008

Solar Energy Facility at Philadelphia, Pa. Navy Yard Site




Exelon Logo"Exelon Generation Company, LLC, has signed a 20-year power purchase agreement with Epuron LLC, the U.S. subsidiary of one of the world’s largest renewable energy companies, to buy energy produced at a new solar energy facility located at the Philadelphia Navy Yard."Epuron logo

" ... solar power project is expected to produce roughly one megawatt of power, or enough energy for 200 homes, by the first quarter of 2009."

Epuron Photovoltaic cellsExelon and Epuron have collaborated together before ... " ... In August 2007, the pair—in conjunction with Waste Management Inc.—announced the construction of the nation’s fourth largest solar photovoltaic (PV) generation project, ... at the WMI site in Fairless Hills.  ... approximately 17,000 panels to capture the sun’s rays and convert them into three megawatts of electricity, or enough power for 2,400 homes."


Via:  Exelon  Link

April 21, 2008

Friends School in Philadelphia, Pa to use Goethermal Energy




Friends Center - Phila., PA.

Friends Select, an independent Quaker school in center city Philadelphia, Pa, is constructing a thermal energy system,.

Drilling holes " ... 1,500 feet below the sidewalk ... in search of energy savings."

" ... will use the ambient temperature of the ground, about 50 degrees, to heat and cool the Quaker-run office complex."

" ... costing $1.3 million, ... will help eliminate the center's emissions of greenhouse gases and cut its energy costs by an estimated 46 percent. The payback period: six to eight years."

Freied Select has other "green" application ... " ... a green makeover that includes solar panels, a vegetated roof, and rainwater holding tanks to flush the toilets."

Via:  www.philly.com   Link

April 19, 2008

Vermont's Farm-Way goes "Solar"




VErmont Gear - FarmWay

Farm-Way of Bradford, Vermont is a family business - family owned and operated. 

They have also decided to make an investment in solar panels.  "Farm-Way and Vermont Gear have pledged over $400,000 in solar panels to “ Gro Solar” company in White River Jct Vermont. We will be generating approximately 60 KW of power, which is equivalent to 43% of our electrical power consumption. ..."solar panels

" ... our system will allow our local electrical service to avoid 76,000 pounds of carbon dioxide per year ,  ... reductions from the utility power annually of NOX @ 84 pounds  and sulfur dioxide @200 pounds."

" ... will ... monitor at our entryway and also linking our web site to the data and output information in real time,  ... continually updated views of the systems output and easily understood information on the benefits of solar."
 

Via:  EcoWorks - Vermont Gear Link

Continue reading "Vermont's Farm-Way goes "Solar"" »

April 11, 2008

GE ecomagination Homebuilder Program




GE ecomagination Homebuilder Program

"... a whole-home solution that benefits the environment and your wallet. Designed to lower overall household energy consumption, emissions and indoor water consumption,... combines building science with high performance products ..."GE logo

FACT: "A 2,500-square-foot house in Texas built to the ecomagination Homebuilder Program specification is designed to lower CO2 emissions by approximately 5 tons annually, which is equivalent to the CO2 emissions of driving more than 10,000 miles in an average U.S. car, or to the CO2 absorbed by 1.3 acres of a Southeastern forest each year.

FACT:  A 2,500-square-foot home built to the ecomagination Homebuilder Program specification is designed to save the homeowner US$ 600 to upwards of 1,500 USD on annual utility bills versus an industry-standard average new home due to significant energy and water savings.

Source: GE Consumer & Industrial

 

Via:  GE ecomagination Homebuilder Program  Link 

 

March 11, 2008

Obama Speaks in PA About Green Energy @ Wind Turbine Plant




Gamesa Logo March 11, 2008 - FAIRLESS HILLS, Pa. -Presidential Candidate Obama spoke at the US site of Spanish Wind Turbine Company Gamesa.

Obama Signs a Turbine Blade

" ... spoke in a cavernous facility that ... is home to an arm of the Spanish company Gamesa, which makes giant turbines that generate electricity ... "

 

Wind Turbines"Obama repeated his call to spend $150 billion over 10 years to create "a green energy sector." He said it would "create up to 5 million new jobs, including jobs in Pennsylvania.""

 

"We should be building windmills all across the country,... " 

 

Via:  news.yahoo.com  Link

Continue reading "Obama Speaks in PA About Green Energy @ Wind Turbine Plant" »

March 04, 2008

Electric Lawn Mowers




Logo

Gasoline engines from lawn equipment (movers, blowers, edgers, etc) contribute a significant share of pollution.  Small engines are not subject to the same emission requirements as larger engines and so are probably the biggest non-road emissions source.

For smaller lawns a battery powered electric mower might be a practical solution.nueron electric mover

No more oil and gas ... just plug in, charge and go.

"... relief from the arm-yanking pull-starts, the fumes, noise, and vibration of a gas lawn mower. Start it with the push of a button and mow for up to 1 hour on a single charge."

" ... doesn't use gas or oil, so it never needs a tune-up and it runs clean. It produces no pollution or carbon emissions. ..."

Via: drpower.com   Link

February 22, 2008

Green House Data - Green Data Center




Green House Dta Logo

Green House Data is " ... one of the only 100% Wind powered GREEN data centers in the nation. ... our green data center design is 60% more energy efficient than the average data center in the U.S."

"... perfect combination -- an environmentally responsible data center, lower than average prices, and above average professional service ... first facility will be located in Cheyenne, Wyoming .. Wyoming's first enterprise class computing center."

 

Via: Green Housde Data Center  Link

Continue reading "Green House Data - Green Data Center" »

February 20, 2008

Nanosolar




Nanosolar Logo

 Solar panels are becoming more common; almost mainstream.

  What is now needed is a way to boost the efficiency or redue the manufacturing cost.

"Nanosolar is a global leader in solar power innovation. ...  setting the standard for affordable green power with solar cell technology of distinctly superior cost efficiency, versatility, and availability."nanosolar flexible solar panels

"Leveraging ... nanostructured materials, we have developed a critical mass of engineering advances that profoundly change the cost efficiency and production scalability of solar electricity cells and panels."

" ... on track to make solar electricity: ... cost-efficient ... mass produced on a global scale ... availabler in many forms ..." 
 


Via:  Nanosolar.com   Link

Continue reading "Nanosolar" »

February 14, 2008

Sail Assist for Ocean Vessels




SkySailsWind powered sailing ships are not new - the first effective ships to cross the oceans were wind powered vessels.  Now with crude oil reaching and passing the $US100 / bbl mark they are getting closer attention as a viable "assist" to modern freight vessels.First Trial of Beluga's SkySail

"... SkySails represents the only suitable model: no bothersome masts on deck, no restriction of stowage space, no hindrances to loading and discharging, no risk to the crew, cargo or ship as well as reliable overall performance. ... wind energy ... makes it possible to provide relief to the main engine ... when the sail is scaled up to 320 square metres ... potential savings of 20 to 30 percent aBEluga with CArgo of Wind Turbines!!re definitely feasible and realistic. ..."

An interesting observation is that in the picture to the left the vessel is carrying wind turbine equipment!



 

 

Via:  SkySails   Link 

Via:  The Beluga Group  Link

 

 

 

 

 

February 13, 2008

Bio-Diesel Flight Around the World




 green flight international logo
Green Fuel for airplanes! 

Green Flight International has made history buy having "... completed the world's first Jet aircraft flight powered by 100% biofuel ..."Bio diesel jet

They are planning an around the world approx. 22,000 nautical mile flight to further demonstrate their capabilities.  The date has not yet been set but he flight will "... set an example to the International community that it is possible to implement Alternative energy into mainstream transportation sources."

Green Flight International is based in Apopka, Florida.

Via:  Green Flight International Link

 

Continue reading "Bio-Diesel Flight Around the World" »

February 08, 2008

Rice Grower in S.C. Uses Certified Renewable Energy




carolina plantation riceCampbell Coxe

" ... Carolina Plantation Rice ... is the first and only business in South Carolina to be recognized nationally as being Green-e certified as an environmentally friendly user of renewable energy."

" ... purchases renewable energy from Pee Dee Electric Cooperative in the form of “Green Power” to irrigate and process its crops ... Green Power is electricity generated from landfill gas."

“"Our customer base is a very aware group of people who are environmentally concerned,” ...  All our packaging is biodegradable. It’s natural.” "green-e power logo


Via:  Electric Cooperative of South Carolina   Link

February 06, 2008

Bio Diesel Jet Plane




Czech L-29 Bio-Diesel Jet

Bio-Diesel is an alternative fuel used in lqwn movers and cars.  But what about airplanes?

Read on to learn about a bio-diesel jet ...>>>

"Biodiesel ... recently power a 1968 L-29 Czechoslovakian jet—dubbed BioJet 1—up to 17,000 feet (5,180 meters) over 37 minutes. A three minute, 15-second test the day before was the world's first flight entirely fueled by cooking oil."

"... the fuel for the historic October flight: fresh canola oil refined into biodiesel. ...""

"As little as 20 percent biodiesel in petroleum diesel fuel will reduce carbon emissions by 50 percent,... "

"...  plans to fly the experimental jet from Reno, Nev., to Orlando, Fla.—the first transcontinental biodiesel flight, in eight stops. And, eventually, he hopes to fly a similarly fuelled plane around the world. ...""

 

Via:  Scientific American   Link

January 24, 2008

Greener Gadgets Conference in N.Y.C. Feb 1, 2008




Greener Gadgets ConferenceNew York City is hosting the Greener Gadget Conference on Feb 1, 2008.  The one day event details:
 

10am - 6pm
McGraw-Hill Conference Center
1221 Avenue of the Americas
New York City, NY

"... industry leaders, entrepreneurs, [and others] ... will gather to discuss the business case for the greening of the consumer electronics industry. ... featuring ...  consumer electronics companies ..., innovators from academic thinktanks, members of startups ... and some of the leading minds in the word of sustainable design and business. Topics to be addressed include: design for sustainability, product life cycle management, take-back and recycling programs, energy efficiency, greener materials, and green lifestyle and product marketing. An attached gallery space will feature a green prototype office display and technology exhibits from companies on the cutting edge of green tech."

" ... will showcase revolutionary design and tech innovations that will shape the future of the consumer electronics and change your world... for the better."

Some discussion points: 
  • "Environmental initiatives from leading consumer electronics companies, such as take-back and recycling programs"
  • "New environmentally sensitive materials, product lifecycle and design for sustainability"
  • "Innovations in renewable energy technologies, such as fuel cells, kinetic energy, wind and solar power"Greener Gadget Conference

Via:  GreenerGadgets.com  Link

Continue reading "Greener Gadgets Conference in N.Y.C. Feb 1, 2008" »

January 13, 2008

Solar Subway Stop in Coney Island, NY




subway staion

"The Stillwell Avenue station in Brooklyn has just installed a 76,000-sq-ft solar roof, ... touted to be “one of the most sustainable mass transportation sites ever built in the U.S.,”..."

" ... 2,730 building integrated photovoltaic panels that create a shelter  ... panels are each 5′ by 20′, made of silicon thin-film, which is less costly to install than other solar panels because it requires minimal framing. Schott Solar Panel 

"... providing 250,000 kilo-watt hours of power to the station each year, ... and ... the transparent roof of panels that lets in plenty of natural light."

Via:  Inhabitat  Link

Continue reading "Solar Subway Stop in Coney Island, NY" »

January 09, 2008

Sweden's "People Powered Heating" System for Buildings




 

Body Heat Rising from athlete's headHere is an interesting idea ... harness the body heat from commuters to warm a building.  instead of radiating into the air ... an interesting idea in Sweden uses that heat to heat a new nearby office building.  

>>> Read on for more.large building with lots of people - heat source?

" ... heat from hundreds of thousands ...  will be used to heat a new office building..."

"...body heat would warm up water that in turn would be pumped through pipes .. ".

"... old technology, but used in a new way. ... expects the system to bring down heating costs in the building by up to 20 percent. "

I" ... system is not expected to be complicated or very costly,..."

 

Via:  Physorg.Com  Link

Continue reading "Sweden's "People Powered Heating" System for Buildings" »

January 08, 2008

Portugal to Build World's Largest Solar Powr Plant




PowerLight Corp Logo

"GE Energy Financial Services, PowerLight Corporation and Catavento Lda ... will build the world's largest solar photovoltaic power project. The 11-megawatt solar power plant, comprising 52,000 photovoltaic modules, ... in Serpa, Portugal, ... one of Europe's sunniest areas."German Solar Power Plant - similar to  Portugese design

"... will produce electricity sufficient to power 8,000 homes and save more than 30,000 tons a year in greenhouse gas emissions compared with equivalent fossil fuel generation."

"... PowerLight's PowerTracker(R) ...patented tracking technology follows the sun ... generating more electricity than conventional fixed-mount systems. " 

 

Via:  RenewableEnergyAccess   Link

Continue reading "Portugal to Build World's Largest Solar Powr Plant" »

December 22, 2007

China Becomes a Leader in Solar Cells - Suntech Power Co, Ltd




Solar Cells

 

China's Suntech Poower Co, Ltd is becoming a power player in Solar Cells.  It is a leader in both cvapacity and solar outbut ...

Read on to learn more about why sun power and solar cells are important to the future power needs of the world ... sdolar cells


  • The Sun has sufficient helium mass to provide the Earth with energy for another five billion years and, every 15 minutes, it emits more energy than humankind uses in an entire year.

  • The Earth receives only one half of one billionth of the Sun's radiant energy, but in just a few days it gets as much heat and light as could be produced by burning all the oil, coal and wood on the planet.

Via:  Suntech Power Co, Ltd.   Link

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Continue reading "China Becomes a Leader in Solar Cells - Suntech Power Co, Ltd" »

December 16, 2007

Possible Route to Hydrocarbon Fuel from Air




solar furnace for CR5 prototype

The normal process is to burn a hydrocarbon and get CO2.  A possible novel new process would turn the CO back into a Hydrocarbon. Sandia National Laboratories Prototype - CO to Fuel

CO2 ==> CO ==> Hydrocarbon ... just add concentrated sunlight!  Pretty neat!  

"... research team from Sandia National Laboratories is building a prototype ... to chemically “reenergize” carbon dioxide into carbon monoxide ... carbon monoxide could then be used to make hydrogen or ... combustible fuel, such as methanol or even gasoline, diesel and jet fuel."

"... Counter Rotating Ring Receiver Reactor Recuperator (CR5, for short), ..."

"... “Sunshine to Petrol” (S2P). “Liquid Solar Fuel” is the end product — the methanol, gasoline, or other liquid fuel made from water and the carbon monoxide produced using solar energy."


Via:  Sandia National Laboratories   Link

Continue reading "Possible Route to Hydrocarbon Fuel from Air" »

December 07, 2007

Brewery Water Treatment Produces Methane!





Water Treatment Plant The New Belgium Brewery has many green aspects to their business ... In addition to their own waste water treatment plant ... they product their own methane!

"...  installation of its own process water treatment facility. ...  allows us to clean our process waters ...  without burdening the municipal system.... "

" ... byproduct of this process is the production of methane. ... capture this methane and pipe it back into ... a combined heat and power engine that produces both electrical and thermal energy. ... power about 10% of the brewery with this byproduct ..."

 

 

Via:  New Belgium Beer   Link

 

Seattle Washington's Green Power Program




Seattle's Green Power Program

 

The citizens of Seattle, Washington have several green power options.  Seattle has a long history of grren power ... in 1905 they built their first hydroelectric plant.

green up!

  • "Buy green power for a portion of your electricity through City Light's Green Up Program"

    >>> This allows customers to pay an additional amount to get up to 100% of their power from renewable sources.


  • "Pay a little more on your bill to support renewable energy demonstrations, including local solar electricity projects, through City Light's Green Power Program".

    >>> This funds demonstrations of renewable energy methods not curently bieung used in Seattle.


Via:  www.Seattle.gov    Link

Via:  City Light Power  Link
 

December 06, 2007

Energy Recovery by RF Frequency




GBRC Logo

Recovering the potential "fuel" in materials has been the driving force behind oil shale and oil sands.  Global Resource Corp, a NJ company, has found a way to "crack "the energy" from materials using RF energy.

Energy Recovery

" ... GRC’s hydrocarbon specific frequencies are generated by much higher RF klystrons that actually crack the hydrocarbon chain into its characteristic fuels.

"... no CO2 or CO produced ... because there is no oxidation... "

"... designed klystron machinery for gasifying hydrocarbons where they exist or in fabricated systems. In-situ meaning processed deep in the ground, rock formations or anywhere naturally occurring and off-situ meaning processed above ground that is mined or material removed from site.

"... GRC ...now possess the technology that will free America from foreign oil imports.


Click the LINK to see a YouTUBE video of converting COAL into natural gas and hydrogen fuel.

 

Via:  Global Resource Corporation    Link 

Continue reading "Energy Recovery by RF Frequency" »

November 14, 2007

New York Governor's Mansion Goes Green




 New York Governor's Mansion

"Silda Wall Spitzer, ... wants to turn the governor's mansion ... into a modern model of energy efficiency ... “Greening the Mansion” will cut its electrical energy consumption by 50% and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by half.solar panels

Highlights include:

* solar panels
* a fuel cell to  replace back up dielsel powered generator
* energy efficient appliances

Via:  TreeHugger.com   Link

 

Continue reading "New York Governor's Mansion Goes Green" »

November 13, 2007

Al Gore Joins KPC&B to Focus on Alternative Energy




Al Gore

Al Gore has joined the Silocn Valley venture capital firs Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers.  He joins "... as a partner focused on alternative energy investments.KPC&B logo

Many say the private sector will lead the way in the Green Initiative - the combination of KPC&B and Al Gore is a potent combination. 

>>> I agree.

 Furthering his green bent Gore indicated that "...100 percent of his salary as a partner at Kleiner Perkins will be donated directly to the Alliance for Climate Protection ..."

 

 

Via:  Rueters   Link

 

Continue reading "Al Gore Joins KPC&B to Focus on Alternative Energy" »

November 10, 2007

Solr Powered Laptop Bag




solar panels on laptop bageclipse solar gear
Carry your laptop and other electronics in a cool looking bag and have a handy source of never ending power at the same time.  

"Eclipse Solar Gear is a leading source of innovative solar charging cases  ...patented line of solar backpacks ... designed to charge the batteries of common handheld electronics ..."

"... a solar backpack or any solar charger can extend the use of your personal electronics and contribute to the protection of the environment.  ..."

 

 

 

 

 

Via:  eclipsesolargear.com   Link 

September 28, 2007

BP Solar Committed to Solar Power




BP is committed to alternative power solutions.  In addition to manufacturng Solar panels they have partnered with several groups to make it easier to buy (with Home Depo).

>>>  Read on for more.

In 2005, "... expanded state-of-the-art facility in Frederick, Md. to more than double our production of solar panels. ... contains all of the elements of solar product manufacturing processes. These are vertically integrated to ensure the overall quality of the finished products. ... In fact, BP already is one of the world's largest producers of solar panels." 

See photo at right.

 

house with solar panels

"Residential customers in southern California can visit one of many of The Home Depot® centers and purchase a complete home solar system via the BP Solar Home Solution program. ... [also] available in New Jersey, California and New York."

" ... BP Solar has partnered with Sun Edison to create "SunE Solar Fund 1," a $60 million fund ... to support the installation of as many as 25 U.S. solar electric systems. The funds kickoff by installing BP Solar Energy Solutions systems at several Staples stores in California and New Jersey. When fully operational, these three systems will generate a total of 680 kWh of electricity."
 
"... the BP Solar Neighbors Program. ... Actor Edward Norton broached the idea of giving low-income families in Los Angeles access to solar power after he installed a BP Solar system in his own home. ... a community partnership between BP and the Enterprise Foundation called the BP Solar Neighbors Program. Also joining in this ground-breaking collaboration is the Environmental Media Association.
Every time an invited celebrity has a BP Solar system installed on his or her home, BP donates a system to a low-income family living in South Central L.A. More than 25 families have received the gift of clean solar power through this program to help lower their electricity bills."
 
Via:  BP.com            Link

September 14, 2007

Rhode Island Boarding School Has its own Wind Turbine




Portsmouth Abbey Wind Turbine
Portsmouth Abbey was founded in 1926 and has +/- 340 students in grades 9 - 12.  They have a beautiful 500 acre campus and are just 10 miles from Newport Rhode Island. 

>> And they are near a windy coast ...

>> And they have a Windmill to generate electricity ...  

  

Construction started in November 2005 for ... "Rhode Island’s first-ever utility-scale wind turbine ...165 foot tall, 660 kilowatt (kW) wind turbine will be the largest single investment ever made by the Rhode Island Renewable Energy Fund, producing 1.25 million kilowatt hours of electricity per year."

"... is expected to generate 40 percent of the annual electricity demand of the ... School, one of Rhode Island’s largest consumers of electricity."

on the one year anniversary --- "statistical data that showed how Portsmouth Abbey saved nearly $223,000 in the first year of the wind turbine's operation, through lower electricity payments to the utility, electricity sold back to the grid, and renewable energy credits."  

"... there are several cities and towns in Rhode Island, including the town of Portsmouth, that are considering the installation of a wind turbine to help lower municipal energy costs, ... have cited the Portsmouth Abbey wind turbine as a clear example of such success."

 

I visited the windmill this July (2007) and will post my pictures (shortly).

Thanks to my good friend Doug for telling me about the windmill in town ....  

 

 

Via:   Portsmouth Abbey School Web - Announcement  Link
Via:  Rhode Island Renewable Energy Fund  Link
Via:  My friend Doug

September 12, 2007

Green Buillding - Adam Joseph Lewis Center for Environmental Studies - Oberlin College




Adam Lewis Joseph Center for Environmental Studies - Oberlin College

What can be accomplished in a Green Building?? 

Oberlin College, Oberlin, Ohio,  takes a careful look ...

>>> Their Adam Joseph Lewis Center for Environmental Studies is detailed below ...

"... was conceived as a demonstration project, ... designed to be a building that would teach. Lessons embodied in its technology and design choices are intended to reinforce those taught in its classrooms. ... "

"...Efforts to research the AJLC's evolution are well underway, providing ongoing opportunities to educate a variety of audiences, including Oberlin College students, regional kindergarten through high school students, other university students and faculty, architecture and design professionals, and lay audiences."

"With over 150 environmental sensors installed throughout the building and landscape, the AJLC's data monitoring and display system provides a unique opportunity to visualize in real-time the flows of energy and cycling of matter that are necessary to support the built environment. ... premise of this work is that real-time feedback on ecological performance increases awareness, ... feedback of this type may be a necessary prerequisite for facilitating a more sustainable relationship among humans, technology and the natural world."

 
Some building details ...

 
 
"Energy - Photovoltaic (PV) panels on the roof ... meet a substantial fraction of the building's energy needs. Solar energy production is coupled with energy efficient lighting, heating, and appliances to minimize negative environmental impact."



 
 
"Heating, Cooling & Air Quality - ... both active and passive systems, ...provides a comfortable working environment ... Active systems use mechanical equipment to extract and move heat, while passive systems do so with a minimum of mechanical devices."



 
 
"Landscape - ... landscape features a variety of constructed ecosystems that simulate native Northern Ohio ecosystems and incorporate cultigens that produce food for humans."



 
 
"Living Machine & Water Use - ... is an ecologically engineered system that combines elements of conventional wastewater technology with the purification processes of wetland ecosystems to treat and recycle the building's wastewater for reuse in the toilets and landscape."



 
 
"Weather Conditions - A weather station ... monitoring real-time conditions and trends for a variety of environmental variables."



 
 "
Materials - Materials ... elected to enhance its sustainability and were evaluated based on criteria that required less energy inputs, encouraged local production and distribution, and supported creative economic structures."
 

Via:  Oberlin.edu   Link


September 11, 2007

New Jersey Clean Energy Conference amd Leadership Awards




 

NJ Clean Energy ConferenceNew Jersey's Clean Energy Conference,on September 27 - 28, 2007 will honor nominees that are saving energy and advancing the state of clean energy in New Jersey.  The winner will be named at the conference. 

Nominees include Home Builders, Colleges and Universities, and Vendors. 

The annual conference is in it's 3rd year.  " ...brings together ... leading energy professionals and businesses to learn, network, and discuss the issues shaping the energy market and the New Jersey energy market in particular."

" ... provides an excellent forum ... to learn more about the economics of renewable energy and energy efficient technologies and how to hedge against rising energy costs, to leverage the financial and environmental benefits of clean energy."

NJ CleanEnergy 2007 Keynote Speaker

" .. Conference ... has been expanded to 2 days. New workshops and programs are being added ... A special Municipal track and evening networking session will be the focus of day 1. Day 2 will have new workshops and sessions and the luncheon presentation of the Clean Energy Leadership Awards. ... "

"... Special workshops include:"

  • "New Jersey's Energy Master Plan"
  • "Energy Project Financing"
  • "Combined Heat and Power"
  • "Renewable Energy Certificate Markets"
  • "Green Building Design"
  • "Clean Energy Strategies to Reduce your Carbon Footprint"
  • "Energy Programs for Municipalities"

 

Via:   NewJerseyCleanEnergy.com