Merry Christmas and Happy New Year To All
Have a safe and warm holiday.
Please use alternative energy while traveling this holiday season. Use LED lights for your Christmas tree and house decorations.
From USAALTERNATIVEENERGYNOW.BLOGSPOT.COM
Top of blog:
Friday, December 23, 2011
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE
Happy Thanksgiving to all.
We have much to be thankful for. Living in a wonderful country (USA), our health, friends and family, the people that make our quality of life better (you know who you are), etc. Thanks!
When traveling this holiday, I hope you will use alternative energy whenever possible.
We, at USA ALTERNATIVE ENERGY NOW . BLOGSPOT . COM will be traveling by hybrid vehicle and electric train and maybe bicycle.
We pardoned our turkey (like the prez does), so he can live a long life. We will be eating TOFURKY, a meatless meal.
Top of blog:
We have much to be thankful for. Living in a wonderful country (USA), our health, friends and family, the people that make our quality of life better (you know who you are), etc. Thanks!
When traveling this holiday, I hope you will use alternative energy whenever possible.
We, at USA ALTERNATIVE ENERGY NOW . BLOGSPOT . COM will be traveling by hybrid vehicle and electric train and maybe bicycle.
We pardoned our turkey (like the prez does), so he can live a long life. We will be eating TOFURKY, a meatless meal.
Top of blog:
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Wind farms floating in clouds
Inflatable Wind Turbines
Fresh breath of air for energy: Wind farms floating in clouds
Developers hope to power remote or stricken areas with cheap, innovative turbines
By Eric Niiler
Imagine a city floating above the clouds and powered by a fleet of inflatable turbines, each one turning wind into electricity.
While that city and its residents may still be in the realm of science fiction, the idea of airborne wind factories is slowly becoming reality. Several tech firms are trying out new designs to harness the potential energy of winds that travel faster at altitude than at ground level.
"Winds are up to eight times stronger at 2,000 feet than at the 300 feet with wind towers," said Adam Rein, co-founder of Altaeros, a Boston-based startup. "The amount of power you can harness increases by cubic factor of the wind speed, so double wind speed is eight times the power. It's really amazing."
The Altaeros design uses a turbine blade made of lightweight composite aluminum surrounded by a circular shroud of laminate material that both focuses the wind and keeps the turbine aloft.
"It's not so different than a sail or parachute," Rein said.
The device resembles a jet engine that is filled with helium. Altaeros is preparing to launch a one-third scale prototype in the few months from an abandoned Air Force base near the Maine-Canada border. The 100-kilowatt blimp, or aerostat, will eventually generate enough power for about 40 homes, but Rein says he’s not after the residential marketplace.
Rather, he hopes his airborne turbines will power remote military bases, drilling camps or small villages off the grid that now rely on expensive diesel gasoline generators. Since the whole device fits into a shipping container, the design also is ideal for humanitarian operations after natural disasters when power supplies are sketchy at best.
"We think there is a strong need for a renewable energy solution," Rein said. "Imagine trying to erect a 300-foot tower that weighs 70 tons in Northern Canada or Alaska or Africa. It's not feasible."
The floating turbine design recently won the ConocoPhillips Energy Prize for Compelling Renewable Energy Projects, but it's not the only one out there.
Alameda, Calif.-based Makani Power has designed a kite-like airfoil that circles the sky to generate electricity through its tether, while Joby Energy of Santa Cruz is building a flying rectangular array of turbines that it hopes will generate two megawatts of power.
European firms are looking at flying turbines that generate power by the winding mechanism of their ground-based tether.
All of these floating wind turbines are above migratory routes for birds and bats, making their environmental impact less than ground-based turbines which have been targeted by conservation groups. But they do have to contend with federal rules designed to keep airspace open for general aviation and military aircraft.
Despite a few obstacles, experts say the field is open to inventors who can figure out how to make the electricity competitive with existing sources of energy.
"We are early in the development of the technology," said Fort Felker, director of the National Wind Technology Center at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Golden, Colo.
Felker says helium-filled laminate blimps have been used for many years by the Coast Guard to support radar devices that track drug-runners. But combining a turbine and a blimp is new.
"There are no machines up yet to get operational experience, and I'm sure there will be surprises along the way," Felker said. "It's not can you do it, it's can you do it at an acceptable cost."
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/45062146/
http://technology-science.newsvine.com/_news/2011/10/27/8507424-fresh-breath-of-air-for-energy-wind-farms-floating-in-clouds
Top of blog:
Fresh breath of air for energy: Wind farms floating in clouds
Developers hope to power remote or stricken areas with cheap, innovative turbines
By Eric Niiler
Imagine a city floating above the clouds and powered by a fleet of inflatable turbines, each one turning wind into electricity.
While that city and its residents may still be in the realm of science fiction, the idea of airborne wind factories is slowly becoming reality. Several tech firms are trying out new designs to harness the potential energy of winds that travel faster at altitude than at ground level.
"Winds are up to eight times stronger at 2,000 feet than at the 300 feet with wind towers," said Adam Rein, co-founder of Altaeros, a Boston-based startup. "The amount of power you can harness increases by cubic factor of the wind speed, so double wind speed is eight times the power. It's really amazing."
The Altaeros design uses a turbine blade made of lightweight composite aluminum surrounded by a circular shroud of laminate material that both focuses the wind and keeps the turbine aloft.
"It's not so different than a sail or parachute," Rein said.
The device resembles a jet engine that is filled with helium. Altaeros is preparing to launch a one-third scale prototype in the few months from an abandoned Air Force base near the Maine-Canada border. The 100-kilowatt blimp, or aerostat, will eventually generate enough power for about 40 homes, but Rein says he’s not after the residential marketplace.
Rather, he hopes his airborne turbines will power remote military bases, drilling camps or small villages off the grid that now rely on expensive diesel gasoline generators. Since the whole device fits into a shipping container, the design also is ideal for humanitarian operations after natural disasters when power supplies are sketchy at best.
"We think there is a strong need for a renewable energy solution," Rein said. "Imagine trying to erect a 300-foot tower that weighs 70 tons in Northern Canada or Alaska or Africa. It's not feasible."
The floating turbine design recently won the ConocoPhillips Energy Prize for Compelling Renewable Energy Projects, but it's not the only one out there.
Alameda, Calif.-based Makani Power has designed a kite-like airfoil that circles the sky to generate electricity through its tether, while Joby Energy of Santa Cruz is building a flying rectangular array of turbines that it hopes will generate two megawatts of power.
European firms are looking at flying turbines that generate power by the winding mechanism of their ground-based tether.
All of these floating wind turbines are above migratory routes for birds and bats, making their environmental impact less than ground-based turbines which have been targeted by conservation groups. But they do have to contend with federal rules designed to keep airspace open for general aviation and military aircraft.
Despite a few obstacles, experts say the field is open to inventors who can figure out how to make the electricity competitive with existing sources of energy.
"We are early in the development of the technology," said Fort Felker, director of the National Wind Technology Center at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Golden, Colo.
Felker says helium-filled laminate blimps have been used for many years by the Coast Guard to support radar devices that track drug-runners. But combining a turbine and a blimp is new.
"There are no machines up yet to get operational experience, and I'm sure there will be surprises along the way," Felker said. "It's not can you do it, it's can you do it at an acceptable cost."
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/45062146/
http://technology-science.newsvine.com/_news/2011/10/27/8507424-fresh-breath-of-air-for-energy-wind-farms-floating-in-clouds
Top of blog:
Saturday, October 8, 2011
LEDdynamics receives Popular Science Mag Award in Green tech category
Article from January 18, 2008
LEDdynamics announced that it is the recipient of the Popular Science “Best of 2007 Innovation Award” in the Green tech category. The award was for LEDdynamics’ EverLED-TR product line said the company in a press release.
The EverLED-TR is actually a fluorescent tube replacement which by using existing fluorescent ballasts can achieve equivalent light output of the tube it replaces. The EverLED-TR is the world’s first true LED replacement for linear fluorescent lighting said the company.
William McGrath, president and CTO of LEDdynamics, said enthusiastically: “The LEDdynamics team is honored to win this award. It’s a victory for the entire LED industry. Popular Science has recognized the environmental cost to dispose of 680 million mercury filled fluorescent tubes yearly, and found a cleaner, greener light source with LEDs by using the EverLED-TR.”
The EverLED-TR which was introduced in May last year leads the lighting market with its innovative product. LEDdynamics EverLED-TR happens to be the only lighting solution, whether LED or not to win the Green Tech award according to Popular Science Magazine.
Commenting on the methodology followed in selecting awardees, Mark Jannot, Editor-in-Chief of Popular Science Magazine said: “For 20 years, Popular Science’s Best of What’s new awards honor the innovations that make a positive impact on life today and change our views of the future. PopSci’s editors evaluate thousands of products each year to develop this thoughtful list, there’s no higher accolade Popular Science can give.
Jonathan Wish, Chief Strategic Officer remarked, “It’s the EverLED-TR’s ability to work with existing fluorescent ballasts and quality of the light produced, which were deciding factors for PopSci’s evaluation team.”
“They recognized the need for LED solutions which do not require costly removal or modification of existing systems. Because the end-user can simply ‘drop-in’ the EverLED-TR. Switching to LED technology has never been easier,” he said.
The patent pending EverLED-TR made of recyclable material has a service life of 10 years and is already popular leading the LED revolution said the company.
LEDdynamics, Inc. manufactures LuxDrive and EverLED line of products which includes drivers and light modules which use LED technology. The company strives to increase the use of LEDs as a medium of illumination.
Shamila Janakiraman is a TMCnet Contributing Editor
Mark your calendars! INTERNET TELEPHONY Conference & EXPO—the first major IP communications event of the year—is just days away. It’s not too late to register for the event, which takes place in Miami Beach, FL, January 23–25, 2008. The EXPO will feature three valuable days of exhibits, conferences and networking that you won’t want to miss. So what are you waiting for? Sign up now!
http://green.tmcnet.com/topics/green/articles/18787-leddynamics-receives-popular-science-mag-award-green-tech.htm
LEDdynamics announced that it is the recipient of the Popular Science “Best of 2007 Innovation Award” in the Green tech category. The award was for LEDdynamics’ EverLED-TR product line said the company in a press release.
The EverLED-TR is actually a fluorescent tube replacement which by using existing fluorescent ballasts can achieve equivalent light output of the tube it replaces. The EverLED-TR is the world’s first true LED replacement for linear fluorescent lighting said the company.
William McGrath, president and CTO of LEDdynamics, said enthusiastically: “The LEDdynamics team is honored to win this award. It’s a victory for the entire LED industry. Popular Science has recognized the environmental cost to dispose of 680 million mercury filled fluorescent tubes yearly, and found a cleaner, greener light source with LEDs by using the EverLED-TR.”
The EverLED-TR which was introduced in May last year leads the lighting market with its innovative product. LEDdynamics EverLED-TR happens to be the only lighting solution, whether LED or not to win the Green Tech award according to Popular Science Magazine.
Commenting on the methodology followed in selecting awardees, Mark Jannot, Editor-in-Chief of Popular Science Magazine said: “For 20 years, Popular Science’s Best of What’s new awards honor the innovations that make a positive impact on life today and change our views of the future. PopSci’s editors evaluate thousands of products each year to develop this thoughtful list, there’s no higher accolade Popular Science can give.
Jonathan Wish, Chief Strategic Officer remarked, “It’s the EverLED-TR’s ability to work with existing fluorescent ballasts and quality of the light produced, which were deciding factors for PopSci’s evaluation team.”
“They recognized the need for LED solutions which do not require costly removal or modification of existing systems. Because the end-user can simply ‘drop-in’ the EverLED-TR. Switching to LED technology has never been easier,” he said.
The patent pending EverLED-TR made of recyclable material has a service life of 10 years and is already popular leading the LED revolution said the company.
LEDdynamics, Inc. manufactures LuxDrive and EverLED line of products which includes drivers and light modules which use LED technology. The company strives to increase the use of LEDs as a medium of illumination.
Shamila Janakiraman is a TMCnet Contributing Editor
Mark your calendars! INTERNET TELEPHONY Conference & EXPO—the first major IP communications event of the year—is just days away. It’s not too late to register for the event, which takes place in Miami Beach, FL, January 23–25, 2008. The EXPO will feature three valuable days of exhibits, conferences and networking that you won’t want to miss. So what are you waiting for? Sign up now!
http://green.tmcnet.com/topics/green/articles/18787-leddynamics-receives-popular-science-mag-award-green-tech.htm
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Timeline Of Solar Cells
Timeline Of Solar Cells
Feb 12, 2011 in Renewable Energy
11
Timeline
US685957 : Rays falling on insulated conductor connected to a capacitor; the capacitor charges electrically
1800s
1839 – Alexandre Edmond Becquerel observes the photovoltaic look via an electrode in a conductive solution exposed to light.
1873 – Willoughby Smith finds that selenium shows photoconductivity.
1877 – W.G. Adams and R.E. Day observed the photovoltaic look in solidified selenium, and published a paper on the selenium cell. ‘The action of light on selenium,’ in “Proceedings of the Royal Society, A25, 113.
1883 – Charles Fritts develops a solar cell using selenium on a thin layer of gold to form a device giving less than 1% efficiency.
1887 – Heinrich Hertz investigates ultraviolet light photoconductivity and discovers photoelectric look
1887 – James Moser reports dye sensitised photoelectrochemical cell.
1888 – Edward Weston receives patent US389124, “Solar cell”, and US389125, “Solar cell”.
1888-91 – Aleksandr Stoletov makes the first solar cell based on the outer photoelectric look
1894 – Melvin Severy receives patent US527377, “Solar cell”, and US527379, “Solar cell”.
1897 – Harry Reagan receives patent US588177, “Solar cell”..
1900-1929
1901 – Nikola Tesla receives the patent US685957, “Apparatus for the Utilization of Radiant Energy”, and US685958, “Method of Utilizing of Radiant Energy”.
1902 – Philipp von Lenard observes the variation in electron energy with light frequency.
1904 – Albert Einstein publishes a paper on the photoelectric look. Wilhelm Hallwachs makes a semiconductor-junction solar cell (copper and copper oxide).
1913 – William Coblentz receives US1077219, “Solar cell”.
1914 – Sven Ason Berglund patents “methods of increasing the capacity of photosensitive cells”.
1916 – Robert Millikan conducts experiments and proves the photoelectric look.
1918 – Jan Czochralski, a Polish scientist, produces a method to grow single crystals of metal. Decades later, the method is adapted to yield single-crystal silicon.
1920s – Solar water-heating systems, utilizing “flat collectors” (or “flat-plate collectors”), relied upon in homes and apartment buildings in Florida and southern California.
1930-1959
1932 – Audobert and Stora learn the photovoltaic look in Cadmium selenide (CdSe), a photovoltaic material still used today.
1946 – Russell Ohl receives patent US2402662, “Light sensitive device”.
1948 – Gordon Teal and John Small adapt the Czochralski method of crystal growth to yield single-crystalline germanium and, later, silicon.
1950s – Bell Labs yield solar cells for space activities.
1953 – Gerald Pearson starts research into lithium-silicon photovoltaic cells.
1954 – Bell Labs announces the invention of the first modern silicon solar cell. Shortly afterwards, they are shown at the National Academy of Science Assembly. These cells have about 6% efficiency. The New York Times forecasts that solar cells will eventually lead to a source of “limitless energy of the sun”.
1955 – Western Electric licences commercial solar cell technologies. Hoffman Electronics-Semiconductor Division makes a 2% efficient commercial solar cell for /cell or ,785/Watt.
1957 – AT&T assignors (Gerald L. Pearson, Daryl M. Chapin, and Calvin S. Fuller) receive patent US2780765, “Solar Energy Converting Apparatus”. They refer to it as the “solar battery”. Hoffman Electronics makes an 8% efficient solar cell.
1958 – T. Mandelkorn, U.S. Signal Corps Laboratories, makes n-on-p silicon solar cells, which are more strong to radiation hurt and are surpass suited for space. Hoffman Electronics makes 9% efficient solar cells. Vanguard I, the first solar powered satellite, was launched with a 0.1W, 100 cm solar panel.
1959 – Hoffman Electronics makes a 10% efficient commercial solar cell, and introduces the use of a grid friend, reducing the cell’s resistance.
1960-1979
1960 – Hoffman Electronics makes a 14% efficient solar cell.
1961 – “Solar Energy in the Developing World” conference is held by the United Nations.
1962 – The Telstar communications satellite is powered by solar cells.
1963 – Sharp Corporation produces a viable photovoltaic module of silicon solar cells.
1964 – Farrington Daniels’ landmark book, Direct Use of the Sun’s Energy, published by Yale Academe Press.
1967 – Soyuz 1 is the first manned spacecraft to be powered by solar cells
1967 – Akira Fujishima discovers the Honda-Fujishima look which is used for hydrolysis in the photoelectrochemical cell.
1970 – First highly effective GaAs heterostructure solar cells are made by Zhores Alferov and his team in the USSR.
1971 – Salyut 1 is powered by solar cells.
1973 – Skylab is powered by solar cells.
1974 – Florida Solar Energy Center starts .
1974 – Dr. Joseph Lindmayer and Dr. Peter Varadi founded the Solarex Corporation first BI-PV Solar Factory Roof
1974 – J. Baldwin, at Integrated Living Systems, co-develops the world’s first building (in New Mexico) heated and otherwise powered by solar and wind power exclusively.
1976 – David Carlson and Christopher Wronski of RCA Laboratories make first amorphous silicon PV cells, which have an efficiency of 1.1%.
1977 – The Solar Energy Research Institute is established at Golden, Colorado.
1977 – President Jimmy Carter installs solar panels on the White House and promotes incentives for solar energy systems.
1977 – The world manufacture of photovoltaic cells exceeded 500 kW
Late 1970s: the “Energy Crisis”; groundswell of public appeal in solar energy use: photovoltaic and active and passive solar, including in architecture and off-grid buildings and home sites.
1980-1999
1980 – The Institute of Energy Conversion at Academe of Delaware develops the first thin-film solar cell exceeding 10% efficiency using Cu2S/CdS technology.
1982 – Spherical solar cell was developed.
1983 – Worldwide photovoltaic manufacture exceeds 21.3 megawatts, and sales exceed 0 million.
1984 – 30,000 SF Building-Integrated Photovoltaic [BI-PV] Roof completed for the Intercultural Center of Georgetown Academe. At the time of the 20th Anniversary Journey by Horseback for Peace and Photovoltais in 2004 it was still generating an average of one MWh daily as it has for twenty years in the dense urban environment of Washington, DC.
1984 – Amoco Oil pulled factory loan to takeover of Solarex Corporation factory in Frederick, Maryland.
1985 – 20% efficient silicon cells are made by the Centre for Photovoltaic Engineering at the Academe of New South Wales.
1986 – ‘Solar-Voltaic DomeTM’ patented by Lt. Colonel Richard T. Headrick of Irvine, CA as an efficient architectural configuration for building-integrated photovoltaics [BI-PV]; Hesperia, CA field array.
1988-1991 AMOCO/Enron used Solarex patents to sue ARCO Solar out of the business of a-Si (see Solarex Corp.(Enron/Amoco)v.Arco Solar, Inc.Ddel, 805 Fsupp 252 Fed Digest. )
1989 – Reflective solar concentrators are first used with solar cells.
1990 – The Cathedral of Magdeburg installs solar cells on the roof, marking the first installation on a church in East Germany.
1991 – Efficient Photoelectrochemical cells are developed; the Dye-sensitized solar cell is invented.
1991 – President George H. W. Bush directs the U.S. Department of Energy to establish the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (transferring the existing Solar Energy Research Institute).
1992 – SOLAR DEVELOPMENT COOPERATIVE founded by Eileen M. Smith, M.Arch. to assure timely mainstream deployment of quality BI-PV Solar Architecture supported by reliable service industry in the U.S. and global marketplace.
1992 – Academe of South Florida fabricates a 15.89-percent efficient thin-film cell
1993 – The National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s Solar Energy Research Facility is established.
1994 – NREL develops a GaInP/GaAs two-terminal concentrator cell (180 suns) which becomes the first solar cell to exceed 30% conversion efficiency.
1996 – The National Center for Photovoltaics is established. Graetzel, cole Polytechnique Fdrale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland achieves 11% efficient energy conversion with dye-sensitized cells that use a photoelectrochemical look.
1998 – Dignified and September Academe of New South Wales made premiere offering of on-line ‘Advanced Photovoltaics Small Course’
1998 – Historic Joint Outfit Rulemaking into the Role of the Utility Distribution Company [UDC] in Distributed Generation [DG] before the California Public Utilities Commission 98-12-015 and 99-10-025; California Energy Commission 99-DIST-GEN(1) and 99-DIST-GEN(2); California Oversight Board 99-1-A-DG
1999 – Total worldwide installed photovoltaic power reached 1000 megawatts.
2000
2002
President George W. Bush installed a 9 kW ‘building-integrated photovoltaics’ panel on the roof of a grounds maintenance building at the White House for the National Parks Service. Also installed were two solar water heating systems.
2004
March – California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger proposed Solar Roofs Initiative for one million solar roofs in California by 2017.
June 1 – Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius issued a mandate for 1,000 MWp renewable electricity in Kansas by 2015 per Executive Order 04-05.
2006
Polysilicon use in photovoltaics exceeds all other polysilicon use for the first time.
January 12 – California Public Utilities Commission approved the California Solar Initiative (CSI), a comprehensive .8 billion program that provides incentives toward solar development over 11 years.
December 5 – New World Record Achieved in Solar Cell Technology – New Solar Cell Breaks the 40 Percent Efficient Sunlight-to-Electricity Barrier.
2007
Investors start offering free installation in return for a long term Power Buy Agreement (PPA).[citation needed]
April 23 – Start of construction of Nellis Solar Power Sow, a 15 MW PPA installation. 5 MW started operation on October 12, and the final third was completed in December.
May – The Vatican announced that in order to conserve Earth’s resources they would be installing solar panels on some buildings, in “a comprehensive energy project that will pay for itself in a few years”.
June 18 – Google solar panel project starts operation .
July 30 – Academe of Delaware claims to achieve new world record in Solar Cell Technology without independent confirmation – 42.8% efficiency.
December 18 – Nanosolar ships the first commercial printed CIGS, claiming that they will eventually ship for less than /Watt. But, the company does not publicly tell the technical specifications or contemporary selling price of the modules.
2008
Photovoltaic World manufacture, 1980-2007 (log scale). The line shows the best-fit exponential to the manufacture for the most recent 10 years, indicating a doubling of manufacture every 2 years. Units are peak MW. Image by Geoffrey A. Landis
Dignified 13 – New World Record Achieved in Solar Cell Efficiency: Scientists at the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) have set a world record in solar cell efficiency with a photovoltaic device that converts 40.8 percent of the light that hits it into electricity. The inverted metamorphic triple-junction solar cell was designed, fabricated and non-centrally measured at NREL.
See also
Energy development
List of energy topics
List of solar energy topics
PV financial incentives
Timeline of equipment technology
References
^ Perreault, Bruce A.. “Nikola Tesla’s Radiant Energy system”. http://www.nuenergy.org/alt/tesla_energy.htm. Retrieved 2008-01-16.
^ David C. Brock (Spring 2006). “Useless No More: Gordon K. Teal, Germanium, and Single-Crystal Transistors”. Chemical Heritage Newsmagazine (Chemical Heritage Foundation) 24 (1). http://www.chemheritage.org/pubs/ch-v24n1-articles/haw_germanium.html. Retrieved 2008-01-21.
^ D. M. Chapin, C. S. Fuller, and G. L. Pearson (May 1954). “A New Silicon p-n Junction Photocell for Converting Solar Radiation into Electrical Power”. Journal of Applied Physics 25 (5): 676677. doi:10.1063/1.1721711.
^ Alferov, Zh. I., V. M. Andreev, M. B. Kagan, I. I. Protasov, and V. G. Trofim, 1970, olar-energy converters based on p-n AlxGa12xAs-GaAs heterojunctions, Fiz. Tekh. Poluprovodn. 4, 2378 (Sov. Phys. Semicond. 4, 2047 (1971))]
^ Nanotechnology in energy applications, pdf, p.24
^ Nobel Lecture by Zhores Alferov, pdf, p.6
^ http://www.fsec.ucf.edu/
^ http://www.nytimes.com/ads/peoplesoft/article9.html
^ ElectriCity BEYOND THE CURVE OF DEREGULATION written by Eileen M. Smith, M.Arch. 2005
^ White House installs solar-electric system
^ http://www.cpuc.ca.gov/static/energy/solar/
^ United States Department of Energy (December 5, 2006). “New World Record Achieved in Solar Cell Technology”. Press release. http://www.energy.gov/news/4503.htm. Retrieved 2008-01-16.
^ Krauss, Leah (May 31, 2007). “Solar World: Vatican installs solar panels”. United Press International. http://www.upi.com/Energy/Analysis/2007/05/31/solar_world_vatican_installs_solar_panels/3090/. Retrieved 2008-01-16.
^ http://www.google.com/corporate/solarpanels/home
^ “From 40.7 to 42.8 % Solar Cell Efficiency”. July 30, 2007. http://www.renewableenergyaccess.com/rea/news/tale?id=49483. Retrieved 2008-01-16.
^ “Nanosolar Ships First Panels”. Nanosolar Blog. http://www.nanosolar.com/blog3/2007/12/18/nanosolar-ships-first-panels/. Retrieved 2008-01-22.
^ “Nanosolar – Products”. Nanosolar.com. http://www.nanosolar.com/products.htm. Retrieved 2008-01-22.
^ NREL Public Relations (2008-08-13). “NREL Solar Cell Sets World Efficiency Record at 40.8 Percent”. National Renewable Energy Laboratory.
Read more (in new window) at: www.nrel.gov/news/press/2008/625.html Retrieved 2008-09-29.
External links
“Solar Resources”. SunPower Corporation, 2004.
“History: Photovoltaics Timeline”. About, Inc., 2005.
“Bell Labs Celebrates 50th Anniversary of the Solar Cell – Timeline “. Lucent Technologies, 2004.
Lenardic, Denis, “History of photovoltaics”. PVResources.com, 2005.
Perlin, John, “Making Electricity Directly from Sunlight”. Rahus Institute, 2002.
Massey, David, “Bell Labs – The Solar Battery (Photovoltaics)”. 2005.
Trinkaus, George, “The Lost Inventions of Nikola Tesla”. Free Energy Receiver, Chapter 9.
“Solar Energy Timeline “, Charles E. Brown Middle School.
“Centre for Photovolatic Engineering Timeline”. Academe of New South Wales
History of Photovoltaics
Firm ups solar cell forecast for 2006, 2007
Categories: Solar energy | Technology timelinesHidden categories: All articles with unsourced statements | Articles with unsourced statements from May 2008 | Articles lacking in-text citations from February 2008 | All articles lacking in-text citations
I am China Manufacturers writer, reports some information about expanded polystyrene foam , honeycomb paper.
Article from articlesbase.com
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Read more (in new window) at: http://energy4earthreviews.com/earth4energy/timeline-of-solar-cells/
To top of blog usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
Feb 12, 2011 in Renewable Energy
11
Timeline
US685957 : Rays falling on insulated conductor connected to a capacitor; the capacitor charges electrically
1800s
1839 – Alexandre Edmond Becquerel observes the photovoltaic look via an electrode in a conductive solution exposed to light.
1873 – Willoughby Smith finds that selenium shows photoconductivity.
1877 – W.G. Adams and R.E. Day observed the photovoltaic look in solidified selenium, and published a paper on the selenium cell. ‘The action of light on selenium,’ in “Proceedings of the Royal Society, A25, 113.
1883 – Charles Fritts develops a solar cell using selenium on a thin layer of gold to form a device giving less than 1% efficiency.
1887 – Heinrich Hertz investigates ultraviolet light photoconductivity and discovers photoelectric look
1887 – James Moser reports dye sensitised photoelectrochemical cell.
1888 – Edward Weston receives patent US389124, “Solar cell”, and US389125, “Solar cell”.
1888-91 – Aleksandr Stoletov makes the first solar cell based on the outer photoelectric look
1894 – Melvin Severy receives patent US527377, “Solar cell”, and US527379, “Solar cell”.
1897 – Harry Reagan receives patent US588177, “Solar cell”..
1900-1929
1901 – Nikola Tesla receives the patent US685957, “Apparatus for the Utilization of Radiant Energy”, and US685958, “Method of Utilizing of Radiant Energy”.
1902 – Philipp von Lenard observes the variation in electron energy with light frequency.
1904 – Albert Einstein publishes a paper on the photoelectric look. Wilhelm Hallwachs makes a semiconductor-junction solar cell (copper and copper oxide).
1913 – William Coblentz receives US1077219, “Solar cell”.
1914 – Sven Ason Berglund patents “methods of increasing the capacity of photosensitive cells”.
1916 – Robert Millikan conducts experiments and proves the photoelectric look.
1918 – Jan Czochralski, a Polish scientist, produces a method to grow single crystals of metal. Decades later, the method is adapted to yield single-crystal silicon.
1920s – Solar water-heating systems, utilizing “flat collectors” (or “flat-plate collectors”), relied upon in homes and apartment buildings in Florida and southern California.
1930-1959
1932 – Audobert and Stora learn the photovoltaic look in Cadmium selenide (CdSe), a photovoltaic material still used today.
1946 – Russell Ohl receives patent US2402662, “Light sensitive device”.
1948 – Gordon Teal and John Small adapt the Czochralski method of crystal growth to yield single-crystalline germanium and, later, silicon.
1950s – Bell Labs yield solar cells for space activities.
1953 – Gerald Pearson starts research into lithium-silicon photovoltaic cells.
1954 – Bell Labs announces the invention of the first modern silicon solar cell. Shortly afterwards, they are shown at the National Academy of Science Assembly. These cells have about 6% efficiency. The New York Times forecasts that solar cells will eventually lead to a source of “limitless energy of the sun”.
1955 – Western Electric licences commercial solar cell technologies. Hoffman Electronics-Semiconductor Division makes a 2% efficient commercial solar cell for /cell or ,785/Watt.
1957 – AT&T assignors (Gerald L. Pearson, Daryl M. Chapin, and Calvin S. Fuller) receive patent US2780765, “Solar Energy Converting Apparatus”. They refer to it as the “solar battery”. Hoffman Electronics makes an 8% efficient solar cell.
1958 – T. Mandelkorn, U.S. Signal Corps Laboratories, makes n-on-p silicon solar cells, which are more strong to radiation hurt and are surpass suited for space. Hoffman Electronics makes 9% efficient solar cells. Vanguard I, the first solar powered satellite, was launched with a 0.1W, 100 cm solar panel.
1959 – Hoffman Electronics makes a 10% efficient commercial solar cell, and introduces the use of a grid friend, reducing the cell’s resistance.
1960-1979
1960 – Hoffman Electronics makes a 14% efficient solar cell.
1961 – “Solar Energy in the Developing World” conference is held by the United Nations.
1962 – The Telstar communications satellite is powered by solar cells.
1963 – Sharp Corporation produces a viable photovoltaic module of silicon solar cells.
1964 – Farrington Daniels’ landmark book, Direct Use of the Sun’s Energy, published by Yale Academe Press.
1967 – Soyuz 1 is the first manned spacecraft to be powered by solar cells
1967 – Akira Fujishima discovers the Honda-Fujishima look which is used for hydrolysis in the photoelectrochemical cell.
1970 – First highly effective GaAs heterostructure solar cells are made by Zhores Alferov and his team in the USSR.
1971 – Salyut 1 is powered by solar cells.
1973 – Skylab is powered by solar cells.
1974 – Florida Solar Energy Center starts .
1974 – Dr. Joseph Lindmayer and Dr. Peter Varadi founded the Solarex Corporation first BI-PV Solar Factory Roof
1974 – J. Baldwin, at Integrated Living Systems, co-develops the world’s first building (in New Mexico) heated and otherwise powered by solar and wind power exclusively.
1976 – David Carlson and Christopher Wronski of RCA Laboratories make first amorphous silicon PV cells, which have an efficiency of 1.1%.
1977 – The Solar Energy Research Institute is established at Golden, Colorado.
1977 – President Jimmy Carter installs solar panels on the White House and promotes incentives for solar energy systems.
1977 – The world manufacture of photovoltaic cells exceeded 500 kW
Late 1970s: the “Energy Crisis”; groundswell of public appeal in solar energy use: photovoltaic and active and passive solar, including in architecture and off-grid buildings and home sites.
1980-1999
1980 – The Institute of Energy Conversion at Academe of Delaware develops the first thin-film solar cell exceeding 10% efficiency using Cu2S/CdS technology.
1982 – Spherical solar cell was developed.
1983 – Worldwide photovoltaic manufacture exceeds 21.3 megawatts, and sales exceed 0 million.
1984 – 30,000 SF Building-Integrated Photovoltaic [BI-PV] Roof completed for the Intercultural Center of Georgetown Academe. At the time of the 20th Anniversary Journey by Horseback for Peace and Photovoltais in 2004 it was still generating an average of one MWh daily as it has for twenty years in the dense urban environment of Washington, DC.
1984 – Amoco Oil pulled factory loan to takeover of Solarex Corporation factory in Frederick, Maryland.
1985 – 20% efficient silicon cells are made by the Centre for Photovoltaic Engineering at the Academe of New South Wales.
1986 – ‘Solar-Voltaic DomeTM’ patented by Lt. Colonel Richard T. Headrick of Irvine, CA as an efficient architectural configuration for building-integrated photovoltaics [BI-PV]; Hesperia, CA field array.
1988-1991 AMOCO/Enron used Solarex patents to sue ARCO Solar out of the business of a-Si (see Solarex Corp.(Enron/Amoco)v.Arco Solar, Inc.Ddel, 805 Fsupp 252 Fed Digest. )
1989 – Reflective solar concentrators are first used with solar cells.
1990 – The Cathedral of Magdeburg installs solar cells on the roof, marking the first installation on a church in East Germany.
1991 – Efficient Photoelectrochemical cells are developed; the Dye-sensitized solar cell is invented.
1991 – President George H. W. Bush directs the U.S. Department of Energy to establish the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (transferring the existing Solar Energy Research Institute).
1992 – SOLAR DEVELOPMENT COOPERATIVE founded by Eileen M. Smith, M.Arch. to assure timely mainstream deployment of quality BI-PV Solar Architecture supported by reliable service industry in the U.S. and global marketplace.
1992 – Academe of South Florida fabricates a 15.89-percent efficient thin-film cell
1993 – The National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s Solar Energy Research Facility is established.
1994 – NREL develops a GaInP/GaAs two-terminal concentrator cell (180 suns) which becomes the first solar cell to exceed 30% conversion efficiency.
1996 – The National Center for Photovoltaics is established. Graetzel, cole Polytechnique Fdrale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland achieves 11% efficient energy conversion with dye-sensitized cells that use a photoelectrochemical look.
1998 – Dignified and September Academe of New South Wales made premiere offering of on-line ‘Advanced Photovoltaics Small Course’
1998 – Historic Joint Outfit Rulemaking into the Role of the Utility Distribution Company [UDC] in Distributed Generation [DG] before the California Public Utilities Commission 98-12-015 and 99-10-025; California Energy Commission 99-DIST-GEN(1) and 99-DIST-GEN(2); California Oversight Board 99-1-A-DG
1999 – Total worldwide installed photovoltaic power reached 1000 megawatts.
2000
2002
President George W. Bush installed a 9 kW ‘building-integrated photovoltaics’ panel on the roof of a grounds maintenance building at the White House for the National Parks Service. Also installed were two solar water heating systems.
2004
March – California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger proposed Solar Roofs Initiative for one million solar roofs in California by 2017.
June 1 – Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius issued a mandate for 1,000 MWp renewable electricity in Kansas by 2015 per Executive Order 04-05.
2006
Polysilicon use in photovoltaics exceeds all other polysilicon use for the first time.
January 12 – California Public Utilities Commission approved the California Solar Initiative (CSI), a comprehensive .8 billion program that provides incentives toward solar development over 11 years.
December 5 – New World Record Achieved in Solar Cell Technology – New Solar Cell Breaks the 40 Percent Efficient Sunlight-to-Electricity Barrier.
2007
Investors start offering free installation in return for a long term Power Buy Agreement (PPA).[citation needed]
April 23 – Start of construction of Nellis Solar Power Sow, a 15 MW PPA installation. 5 MW started operation on October 12, and the final third was completed in December.
May – The Vatican announced that in order to conserve Earth’s resources they would be installing solar panels on some buildings, in “a comprehensive energy project that will pay for itself in a few years”.
June 18 – Google solar panel project starts operation .
July 30 – Academe of Delaware claims to achieve new world record in Solar Cell Technology without independent confirmation – 42.8% efficiency.
December 18 – Nanosolar ships the first commercial printed CIGS, claiming that they will eventually ship for less than /Watt. But, the company does not publicly tell the technical specifications or contemporary selling price of the modules.
2008
Photovoltaic World manufacture, 1980-2007 (log scale). The line shows the best-fit exponential to the manufacture for the most recent 10 years, indicating a doubling of manufacture every 2 years. Units are peak MW. Image by Geoffrey A. Landis
Dignified 13 – New World Record Achieved in Solar Cell Efficiency: Scientists at the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) have set a world record in solar cell efficiency with a photovoltaic device that converts 40.8 percent of the light that hits it into electricity. The inverted metamorphic triple-junction solar cell was designed, fabricated and non-centrally measured at NREL.
See also
Energy development
List of energy topics
List of solar energy topics
PV financial incentives
Timeline of equipment technology
References
^ Perreault, Bruce A.. “Nikola Tesla’s Radiant Energy system”. http://www.nuenergy.org/alt/tesla_energy.htm. Retrieved 2008-01-16.
^ David C. Brock (Spring 2006). “Useless No More: Gordon K. Teal, Germanium, and Single-Crystal Transistors”. Chemical Heritage Newsmagazine (Chemical Heritage Foundation) 24 (1). http://www.chemheritage.org/pubs/ch-v24n1-articles/haw_germanium.html. Retrieved 2008-01-21.
^ D. M. Chapin, C. S. Fuller, and G. L. Pearson (May 1954). “A New Silicon p-n Junction Photocell for Converting Solar Radiation into Electrical Power”. Journal of Applied Physics 25 (5): 676677. doi:10.1063/1.1721711.
^ Alferov, Zh. I., V. M. Andreev, M. B. Kagan, I. I. Protasov, and V. G. Trofim, 1970, olar-energy converters based on p-n AlxGa12xAs-GaAs heterojunctions, Fiz. Tekh. Poluprovodn. 4, 2378 (Sov. Phys. Semicond. 4, 2047 (1971))]
^ Nanotechnology in energy applications, pdf, p.24
^ Nobel Lecture by Zhores Alferov, pdf, p.6
^ http://www.fsec.ucf.edu/
^ http://www.nytimes.com/ads/peoplesoft/article9.html
^ ElectriCity BEYOND THE CURVE OF DEREGULATION written by Eileen M. Smith, M.Arch. 2005
^ White House installs solar-electric system
^ http://www.cpuc.ca.gov/static/energy/solar/
^ United States Department of Energy (December 5, 2006). “New World Record Achieved in Solar Cell Technology”. Press release. http://www.energy.gov/news/4503.htm. Retrieved 2008-01-16.
^ Krauss, Leah (May 31, 2007). “Solar World: Vatican installs solar panels”. United Press International. http://www.upi.com/Energy/Analysis/2007/05/31/solar_world_vatican_installs_solar_panels/3090/. Retrieved 2008-01-16.
^ http://www.google.com/corporate/solarpanels/home
^ “From 40.7 to 42.8 % Solar Cell Efficiency”. July 30, 2007. http://www.renewableenergyaccess.com/rea/news/tale?id=49483. Retrieved 2008-01-16.
^ “Nanosolar Ships First Panels”. Nanosolar Blog. http://www.nanosolar.com/blog3/2007/12/18/nanosolar-ships-first-panels/. Retrieved 2008-01-22.
^ “Nanosolar – Products”. Nanosolar.com. http://www.nanosolar.com/products.htm. Retrieved 2008-01-22.
^ NREL Public Relations (2008-08-13). “NREL Solar Cell Sets World Efficiency Record at 40.8 Percent”. National Renewable Energy Laboratory.
Read more (in new window) at: www.nrel.gov/news/press/2008/625.html Retrieved 2008-09-29.
External links
“Solar Resources”. SunPower Corporation, 2004.
“History: Photovoltaics Timeline”. About, Inc., 2005.
“Bell Labs Celebrates 50th Anniversary of the Solar Cell – Timeline “. Lucent Technologies, 2004.
Lenardic, Denis, “History of photovoltaics”. PVResources.com, 2005.
Perlin, John, “Making Electricity Directly from Sunlight”. Rahus Institute, 2002.
Massey, David, “Bell Labs – The Solar Battery (Photovoltaics)”. 2005.
Trinkaus, George, “The Lost Inventions of Nikola Tesla”. Free Energy Receiver, Chapter 9.
“Solar Energy Timeline “, Charles E. Brown Middle School.
“Centre for Photovolatic Engineering Timeline”. Academe of New South Wales
History of Photovoltaics
Firm ups solar cell forecast for 2006, 2007
Categories: Solar energy | Technology timelinesHidden categories: All articles with unsourced statements | Articles with unsourced statements from May 2008 | Articles lacking in-text citations from February 2008 | All articles lacking in-text citations
I am China Manufacturers writer, reports some information about expanded polystyrene foam , honeycomb paper.
Article from articlesbase.com
More How Is Solar Energy Used Articles
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Read more (in new window) at: http://energy4earthreviews.com/earth4energy/timeline-of-solar-cells/
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SOLAR HALL of FAME
Solar Hall of Fame
Freeman Ford Inducted to the International Solar Hall of Fame
Freeman Ford of FAFCO based in Chico California, were named as the 2006 inductees to the Solar Hall of Fame. The Solar Hall of Fame is an international award that was created by an Act of Congress sponsored by the Honorable John R. Foley, Esquire during the 1976 Bicentennial of the United States of America in Washington D.C. This award has been given to 45 men and women from various countries throughout the world since 1976.
The first inductees in 1976 were Dr. Charles Abbot, Dr. Erich A. Farber, Dr. John Yellot and Dr. Harry E. Thomason. A trophy is given to each year’s recipient that has a glowing red, orange and yellow sun rising out of a four sided monument that is reminiscent of the pyramid atop the Washington Monument in Washington D.C.
An international trademark was obtained for the Solar Hall of Fame for “PROMOTING EXECELLENCE IN THE FIELD OF SOLAR ENERGY UTILIZATION THROUGH PUBLIC TESTIMONIALS AND TRIBUTE TO OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTORS IN THE FIELD OF SOLAR ENERGY.”
A unique trophy symbol; the Solar Hall of Fame trademark/slogan is “Solar Hall of Fame 1976 to Today”. Each inductee receives a trophy inscribed with the Latin/Spanish “El Sol” and the Greek “Helios” above the inscription “Solar Hall of Fame”. Each individual given the award has their name inscribed under the year they were inducted on a brass plaque on one of the four sides of the pyramid. All previous inductees also have their names inscribed on brass plaques under the year they were inducted on one of the four sides of the pyramid.
Dr. Erich Farber, the last remaining member of the initial inductees gave out this year’s trophy on December 21st 2006 to Freeman Ford and Tom Lane.
Freeman Ford founded FAFCO in 1969. Fafco pioneered the use of polymers for solar pool heating, holds more than twenty patents and was incorporated in 1972. Today, US retail sales of solar thermal systems exceed $150,000,000. The electrical equivalent of FAFCO’s installed base alone exceeds 4000 megawatts.
Thomas H. Lane of ECS Solar Energy Systems in Gainesville Florida has spent over thirty years contracting and installing solar hot water, solar pool heating and solar electric systems, along with training other contractor’s world wide on how to install these systems. His 250 page book, “Solar Hot Water, Lessons Learned 1977 to Today” is the basic Handbook of solar hot water and solar pool installers in the United States.
Mr. Thomas Lane is currently instituting a solar training academy for interns to become knowledgeable in the field of solar contracting to meet the rising demand for qualified and knowledgeable solar installers.
Questions and inquiries about the Solar Hall of Fame can be directed to Dr. Erich A. Farber, Ph.D., PE. Distinguished Service Prof. EM. Director EM, Solar Energy & Energy Conversion Lab. University of Florida, 1218 NE 5th St Gainesville, FL. 32601. Phone number (352) 372-1064.
Previous Inductees to the Solar Hall of Fame
1976
Dr. Charles G. Abbot
Dr. Erich A. Farber
Dr. John I. Yellott
Dr. Harry E. Thomason
1977
Dr. Hoyt C. Hottel
Prof. Everett D. Howe
Mr. Frank Bridgers
1978
Dr. Farrington Daniels
Dr. Maria Telkes
Mr. Harold Hay
1979
Dr. Harry Z. Tabor
Dr. Richard C. Jordan
Dr. Valentin A. Baum
1980
Dr. Felix Trombe
Dr. Rodger Morse
1981
Dr. Ichimatsu Tanishita
Dr. Joseph Lindmayer
1982
Dr. Austin Whillier
Dr. Jagdish C. Kapur
1983
Dr. James L. Threlkeld
Mr. Raymond W. Bliss
1984
Dr. Thomas A. Lawand
Mr. Horace McCraken
1985
Dr. John Page
Dr. Francis de Winter
1986
Dr. Masanosuka Yanagimachi
Dr. James A. Eibling
1987
Dr. William A Shurcliff
Dr. Ken-Ichi Kimura
1988
Dr. William H. Klein
Dr. Joseph Loferski
1990
Mr. Steve Baer
1991
Dr. Lloyd O. Herwig
Dr. Yogi Goswami
1992
Dr. Kenneth G. Soderstrom
H. Jack L. Thomson, Jr.
1993
Robert L. Bailey
Webb W. Farber
1998
Dr. Norman C. Cope
Dr. Anil K. Rajvanshi
1999
Dr. David L. Block
2005
Dr. Karl W. Boer
Dr. Stanford R. Ovshinsky
2006
Mr. Tom Lane
Mr. Freeman Ford
Read more (in new window) at: myfloridasolar.com/solar-pool-heating-hall-of-fame/
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Saturday, October 1, 2011
UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND WINS SOLAR DECATHLON 2011
UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND WINS SOLAR DECATHLON 2011
SUNDAY OCTOBER 2, 2011 LAST DAY TO SEE THE SOLAR HOUSES
Saturday, October 1, 2011
By Carol Anna
Consistently appearing in first place in overall standings throughout the competition, the University of Maryland won the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011. Secretary of Energy Steven Chu announced the competition results today before an excited audience that packed the main tent in the solar village.
“Maryland is a well-experienced team. After taking second place in 2007, they rested and regrouped in 2009 and came to West Potomac Park in 2011 focused and determined to win,” said Solar Decathlon Director Richard King. “In addition, Maryland’s Watershed is a beautiful house, judged first place in Architecture, which also performed impeccably in measured contests. This team mastered their strategies to ensure they excelled in all 10 contests.”
Purdue University took second place in the competition, and New Zealand (Victoria University of Wellington) received the third-place award.
The winner of the competition is the team that best blends affordability, consumer appeal, and design excellence with optimal energy production and maximum efficiency.
Results for the fifth and final juried contest, Market Appeal, were announced today prior to the competition winners. Middlebury College placed first.
“Self-Reliance left the jury very impressed, eclipsing our expectations across the board in livability and marketability,” said Brad Beeson, Market Appeal juror. “Middlebury College defined its market carefully—a young family of four with a modest income for the region—and demonstrated the fit for that target market with a very compelling video.”
Maryland came in second in Market Appeal, and New Zealand came in third.
The Market Appeal contest judges each house’s livability, buildability, and marketability.
More final results, see the Solar Decathlon 2011 scores and standings:
1. Maryland 951.151
2. Purdue 931.390
3. New Zealand 919.058
4. Middlebury College 914.809
5. Ohio State 903.938
6. SCI-Arc/Caltech 899.490
7. Illinois 875.715
8. Tennessee 859.132
9. Team Massachusetts 856.351
10. Canada 836.423
11. Florida Int'l 833.159
12. Appalachian State 832.499
13. Parsons NS Stevens 828.816
14. Tidewater Virginia 774.910
15. Team China 765.471
16. Team Belgium 709.843
17. Team New York 677.356
18. Team New Jersey 669.352
19. Team Florida 619.006
SUNDAY OCTOBER 2, 2011 LAST DAY TO SEE THE SOLAR HOUSES
The U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011 isn’t over yet! Tomorrow—Sunday, Oct. 2—is the last day the public can visit the solar village. And there’s plenty to do!
The houses will be on public display from 10 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. at West Potomac Park on the National Mall.
Consumer workshops run throughout the day, beginning at 10 a.m. You can learn about energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies that can save you money at home. Workshops are free. For a list of tomorrow’s workshop topics, see the daily schedule.
Get directions to the site, see the free public shuttle schedule, or learn more about tours of the houses and village.
Carol Anna is the communications manager of the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon.
Read more (in new window) at: www.solardecathlon.gov/blog/archives/1906
Read more (in new window) at: www.solardecathlon.gov
To top of blog usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
SUNDAY OCTOBER 2, 2011 LAST DAY TO SEE THE SOLAR HOUSES
Saturday, October 1, 2011
By Carol Anna
Consistently appearing in first place in overall standings throughout the competition, the University of Maryland won the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011. Secretary of Energy Steven Chu announced the competition results today before an excited audience that packed the main tent in the solar village.
“Maryland is a well-experienced team. After taking second place in 2007, they rested and regrouped in 2009 and came to West Potomac Park in 2011 focused and determined to win,” said Solar Decathlon Director Richard King. “In addition, Maryland’s Watershed is a beautiful house, judged first place in Architecture, which also performed impeccably in measured contests. This team mastered their strategies to ensure they excelled in all 10 contests.”
Purdue University took second place in the competition, and New Zealand (Victoria University of Wellington) received the third-place award.
The winner of the competition is the team that best blends affordability, consumer appeal, and design excellence with optimal energy production and maximum efficiency.
Results for the fifth and final juried contest, Market Appeal, were announced today prior to the competition winners. Middlebury College placed first.
“Self-Reliance left the jury very impressed, eclipsing our expectations across the board in livability and marketability,” said Brad Beeson, Market Appeal juror. “Middlebury College defined its market carefully—a young family of four with a modest income for the region—and demonstrated the fit for that target market with a very compelling video.”
Maryland came in second in Market Appeal, and New Zealand came in third.
The Market Appeal contest judges each house’s livability, buildability, and marketability.
More final results, see the Solar Decathlon 2011 scores and standings:
1. Maryland 951.151
2. Purdue 931.390
3. New Zealand 919.058
4. Middlebury College 914.809
5. Ohio State 903.938
6. SCI-Arc/Caltech 899.490
7. Illinois 875.715
8. Tennessee 859.132
9. Team Massachusetts 856.351
10. Canada 836.423
11. Florida Int'l 833.159
12. Appalachian State 832.499
13. Parsons NS Stevens 828.816
14. Tidewater Virginia 774.910
15. Team China 765.471
16. Team Belgium 709.843
17. Team New York 677.356
18. Team New Jersey 669.352
19. Team Florida 619.006
SUNDAY OCTOBER 2, 2011 LAST DAY TO SEE THE SOLAR HOUSES
The U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011 isn’t over yet! Tomorrow—Sunday, Oct. 2—is the last day the public can visit the solar village. And there’s plenty to do!
The houses will be on public display from 10 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. at West Potomac Park on the National Mall.
Consumer workshops run throughout the day, beginning at 10 a.m. You can learn about energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies that can save you money at home. Workshops are free. For a list of tomorrow’s workshop topics, see the daily schedule.
Get directions to the site, see the free public shuttle schedule, or learn more about tours of the houses and village.
Carol Anna is the communications manager of the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon.
Read more (in new window) at: www.solardecathlon.gov/blog/archives/1906
Read more (in new window) at: www.solardecathlon.gov
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Solar Decathlon 2011 Washington DC
Solar Decathlon 2011 Washington DC
Last Two Days - October 1 & 2
Come see the Solar Decathlon on the National Mall
at West Potomac Park
October 1 & 2 - Hours 10a.m. to 5:30p.m.
You ask what is a solar decathlon?
It's an annual international solar homes contest.
Teams design and erect solar homes on the national mall. They are judged on design and performance. Come watch them erect the homes and later come see the winners of this year's awards.
View the current standings and videos at link below:
Read more (in new window) at: www.solardecathlon.gov
To top of blog usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
Last Two Days - October 1 & 2
Come see the Solar Decathlon on the National Mall
at West Potomac Park
October 1 & 2 - Hours 10a.m. to 5:30p.m.
You ask what is a solar decathlon?
It's an annual international solar homes contest.
Teams design and erect solar homes on the national mall. They are judged on design and performance. Come watch them erect the homes and later come see the winners of this year's awards.
View the current standings and videos at link below:
Read more (in new window) at: www.solardecathlon.gov
To top of blog usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
Sunday, September 25, 2011
National Atlas . Gov Renewable Energy Atlas
National Atlas . Gov Renewable Energy Atlas
Dept. of the Interior
Go to the website for detailed information about renewable energy across America.
It has alot of good information.
Link (in new window) at:nationalatlas.gov/articles/people/a_energy.html
Link (in new window) at: nrel.gov
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Dept. of the Interior
Go to the website for detailed information about renewable energy across America.
It has alot of good information.
Link (in new window) at:nationalatlas.gov/articles/people/a_energy.html
Link (in new window) at: nrel.gov
To top of blog usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Moving Planet Day - A global non-fossil-fueled transportation event set for Saturday, Sept. 24
MOVING PLANET DAY
A global non-fossil-fueled transportation event set for Saturday, Sept. 24
Today is Moving Planet Day, so why not step away from fossil fuels & pump pedals instead? Check out these 7 simple and affordable options for urban bicycling.
Is it possible to ride a bike in the city without upgrading every part, stripping it to nearly nothing, spending $4,000, throwing a courier bag over your shoulder, or sporting a body mass index of 17 or less? Yes, even in this age of hipster couture, it's possible, and we're going to tell you how to begin choosing a practical city bike.
Daunted by the possibilities, many of us urban riders just want to keep it simple, comfortable, utilitarian, affordable, and at least fashion-neutral (never mind all the ways urban biking dovetails with the activist spirit of Moving Planet Day, a global non-fossil-fueled transportation event set for Saturday, Sept. 24). "I wanted one bike, not two, something versatile enough for both road and hike and bike trails," said David Murphy, who rides in Austin, Texas, for fun.
Some of us would prefer to start the search for an urban cycle with basic information, rather than mounting a full-scale research effort. "I spent a lot of time on forums and the Internet," says Anthony LaFauce, who rides from his home in the Van Ness section of Washington, D.C. about four miles to his public-relations job on K Street. "I also talked to bike mechanics, which is not a pleasant experience, because they don't like newbies."
To get started, here are briefs on seven biking options that are well-suited to riding in the city. Shift into first gear and come along for a quick spin (sorry, no fixies here, they're too cool and impractical).
Read more (in new window) at: local.msn.com/bikes-and-the-city?gt1=24000
Read more (in new window) at: www.moving-planet.org/
To top of blog usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
A global non-fossil-fueled transportation event set for Saturday, Sept. 24
Today is Moving Planet Day, so why not step away from fossil fuels & pump pedals instead? Check out these 7 simple and affordable options for urban bicycling.
Is it possible to ride a bike in the city without upgrading every part, stripping it to nearly nothing, spending $4,000, throwing a courier bag over your shoulder, or sporting a body mass index of 17 or less? Yes, even in this age of hipster couture, it's possible, and we're going to tell you how to begin choosing a practical city bike.
Daunted by the possibilities, many of us urban riders just want to keep it simple, comfortable, utilitarian, affordable, and at least fashion-neutral (never mind all the ways urban biking dovetails with the activist spirit of Moving Planet Day, a global non-fossil-fueled transportation event set for Saturday, Sept. 24). "I wanted one bike, not two, something versatile enough for both road and hike and bike trails," said David Murphy, who rides in Austin, Texas, for fun.
Some of us would prefer to start the search for an urban cycle with basic information, rather than mounting a full-scale research effort. "I spent a lot of time on forums and the Internet," says Anthony LaFauce, who rides from his home in the Van Ness section of Washington, D.C. about four miles to his public-relations job on K Street. "I also talked to bike mechanics, which is not a pleasant experience, because they don't like newbies."
To get started, here are briefs on seven biking options that are well-suited to riding in the city. Shift into first gear and come along for a quick spin (sorry, no fixies here, they're too cool and impractical).
Read more (in new window) at: local.msn.com/bikes-and-the-city?gt1=24000
Read more (in new window) at: www.moving-planet.org/
To top of blog usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
CAR FREE DAY 22 SEPTEMBER 2011
CAR FREE DAY AROUND THE WORLD
22 SEPTEMBER CAR FREE DAY
Peolpe around the world will be seeking alternative transportation to celebrate this event.
Car-free day urges EU capital residents to get greener
(Reuters) - Brussels will free its streets of cars and heavy traffic this Sunday as it celebrates its 11th annual car-free day, marking a week when cities across Europe promote cycling and other green transport.
The seat of the European Union and home to environmental legislation for its 27 member states wants to encourage efforts to cut vehicle emissions -- and get citizens out on their feet.
While planners recognize that one day will not make much difference to the environment's bill of health, the event is supposed to create awareness that leads to change in the future.
But will it?
Brussels has held a car-free day each year since 2000 -- but was given an F-grade this year for progress in reducing "soot emissions" by the Soot-free for the Climate campaign run by a group of German environmental and consumer associations.
Mirroring Brussels; London, Madrid and Rome were also given failing grades. Berlin did among the best with a B, but none of the 17 cities assessed secured an A grade.
Brussels has also been dubbed the most congested European city by car navigation firm TomTom -- though its blockages are nothing compared to, say, parts of China. In 2010, drivers suffered a 60-mile traffic jam on a highway from Beijing to Mongolia.
Brussels and more than 1,900 other cities will bring "alternative mobility" experts together to discuss cycling infrastructure and behavioral changes during European Mobility Week from September 16-22.
During the week, the Brussels embassy of the Netherlands will be holding Orange Bike Days, which include expos, organized rides and workshops to encourage cycling, long a part of the Dutch national identity.
RESPECT FOR PEOPLE WHO PEDAL
Roelof Wittink, director of the Dutch Cycling Embassy, a network organization, said Brussels had some way to go to improve the lot of its cyclists.
"In Amsterdam we have segregated cycling facilities or we have situations where we have calmed down the car traffic so much that in fact cyclists feel at least equal to car drivers," he said.
Many bike riders in the Belgian capital would agree, but say there are still some things which need improvement.
"There is not enough respect for cyclists," said Mark Grassi, who rides his bicycle to work but said he struggles to find anywhere to park it safely.
Even the European commissioner for climate action, Denmark's Connie Hedegaard, finds cycling a bit stressful in the European capital. When she lived in Copenhagen, she used to cycle 9 km (6 miles) from her home to her ministry.
"Sometimes I do bike, but it is a very different experience. It is not... relaxed," she said. Shortly after she arrived in the Belgian capital in February 2010, her bike was stolen.
"It was where I live in Brussels, it was locked to a tree, but it was gone," she said.
Brussels wants cycling to make up 20 percent of transportation by 2020. But its current share is estimated at only about 4 or 5 percent, said Julian Ferguson of the European Cyclists' Federation.
And EU-wide, only 7 percent of citizens cycle daily, according to a European Commission report.
Spain and Austria will take the lead in the Mobility Week effort this year, with the most cities participating -- 627 and 446 respectively.
If a city was able to reduce its traffic by half, it would be making big improvements, said Jos Dings, director of green policy campaigning group Transport and Environment.
But when it comes to harmful chemicals in the air, there is really no safe level of nitrogen dioxide and particle emissions, which are emitted more heavily by diesel vehicles, he said.
Nitrogen dioxide can cause respiratory problems; particle emissions can cause long lasting damage or diseases such as cancer, Dings said.
But "every reduction you make toward zero still makes sense," he added.
(Editing by Paul Casciato)
Environment
Read more (in new window)at: uk.reuters.com/article/2011/09/16/us-brussels-bicycles-idUKTRE78F1ZE20110916
Read more on other websites:
Read more (in new window)at: www.commuterconnections.org
Read more (in new window)at: www.carfreemetrodc.com
Our friends at 350.org are organising a day of action against fossil fuel use on the Saturday 24 September after World Carfree Day. Click here for more info and to find events near you
Read more (in new window)at: www.moving-planet.org
To top of blog usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
22 SEPTEMBER CAR FREE DAY
Peolpe around the world will be seeking alternative transportation to celebrate this event.
Car-free day urges EU capital residents to get greener
(Reuters) - Brussels will free its streets of cars and heavy traffic this Sunday as it celebrates its 11th annual car-free day, marking a week when cities across Europe promote cycling and other green transport.
The seat of the European Union and home to environmental legislation for its 27 member states wants to encourage efforts to cut vehicle emissions -- and get citizens out on their feet.
While planners recognize that one day will not make much difference to the environment's bill of health, the event is supposed to create awareness that leads to change in the future.
But will it?
Brussels has held a car-free day each year since 2000 -- but was given an F-grade this year for progress in reducing "soot emissions" by the Soot-free for the Climate campaign run by a group of German environmental and consumer associations.
Mirroring Brussels; London, Madrid and Rome were also given failing grades. Berlin did among the best with a B, but none of the 17 cities assessed secured an A grade.
Brussels has also been dubbed the most congested European city by car navigation firm TomTom -- though its blockages are nothing compared to, say, parts of China. In 2010, drivers suffered a 60-mile traffic jam on a highway from Beijing to Mongolia.
Brussels and more than 1,900 other cities will bring "alternative mobility" experts together to discuss cycling infrastructure and behavioral changes during European Mobility Week from September 16-22.
During the week, the Brussels embassy of the Netherlands will be holding Orange Bike Days, which include expos, organized rides and workshops to encourage cycling, long a part of the Dutch national identity.
RESPECT FOR PEOPLE WHO PEDAL
Roelof Wittink, director of the Dutch Cycling Embassy, a network organization, said Brussels had some way to go to improve the lot of its cyclists.
"In Amsterdam we have segregated cycling facilities or we have situations where we have calmed down the car traffic so much that in fact cyclists feel at least equal to car drivers," he said.
Many bike riders in the Belgian capital would agree, but say there are still some things which need improvement.
"There is not enough respect for cyclists," said Mark Grassi, who rides his bicycle to work but said he struggles to find anywhere to park it safely.
Even the European commissioner for climate action, Denmark's Connie Hedegaard, finds cycling a bit stressful in the European capital. When she lived in Copenhagen, she used to cycle 9 km (6 miles) from her home to her ministry.
"Sometimes I do bike, but it is a very different experience. It is not... relaxed," she said. Shortly after she arrived in the Belgian capital in February 2010, her bike was stolen.
"It was where I live in Brussels, it was locked to a tree, but it was gone," she said.
Brussels wants cycling to make up 20 percent of transportation by 2020. But its current share is estimated at only about 4 or 5 percent, said Julian Ferguson of the European Cyclists' Federation.
And EU-wide, only 7 percent of citizens cycle daily, according to a European Commission report.
Spain and Austria will take the lead in the Mobility Week effort this year, with the most cities participating -- 627 and 446 respectively.
If a city was able to reduce its traffic by half, it would be making big improvements, said Jos Dings, director of green policy campaigning group Transport and Environment.
But when it comes to harmful chemicals in the air, there is really no safe level of nitrogen dioxide and particle emissions, which are emitted more heavily by diesel vehicles, he said.
Nitrogen dioxide can cause respiratory problems; particle emissions can cause long lasting damage or diseases such as cancer, Dings said.
But "every reduction you make toward zero still makes sense," he added.
(Editing by Paul Casciato)
Environment
Read more (in new window)at: uk.reuters.com/article/2011/09/16/us-brussels-bicycles-idUKTRE78F1ZE20110916
Read more on other websites:
Read more (in new window)at: www.commuterconnections.org
Read more (in new window)at: www.carfreemetrodc.com
Our friends at 350.org are organising a day of action against fossil fuel use on the Saturday 24 September after World Carfree Day. Click here for more info and to find events near you
Read more (in new window)at: www.moving-planet.org
To top of blog usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
Monday, September 19, 2011
8,000 SOLAR PANELS AT FEDEX FIELD REDSKINS
8,000 SOLAR PANELS WERE INSTALLED AT FEDEX FIELD
LANDOVER, Md. & PRINCETON, N.J., Sep 18, 2011 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- NRG /quotes/zigman/337115/quotes/nls/nrg NRG -1.71% and the Washington Redskins today celebrated FedExField's energy future with the help of former NFL quarterbacks and Redskins' fans during the "NRG Solar Bowl" Quarterback Challenge and an official "flipping of the switch" at halftime to inaugurate the new NRG solar power installation at FedExField.
The solar power system - with more than 8,000 solar panels - is capable of providing all power to the stadium on non-game days and up to 20% of its needed electricity on game days -- the equivalent of providing 300 homes with energy for a year. In addition to being the largest solar installation at an NFL stadium, it is the largest solar installation in the D.C.-metro area.
With the help of the football fans gathered at FedExField, NRG CEO David Crane along with Redskins legends Joe Theismann and Mark Rypien "flipped the switch" on the new solar installation from the field during the game's halftime. Prior to the game between the Redskins and Arizona, Theismann and Rypien teamed up with pro and college greats Joe Montana and Doug Flutie to coach fans in a series of skill drills during the "NRG Solar Bowl" Quarterback Challenge.
"Today's activities were developed to engage fans, call attention to the power of solar energy and demonstrate how renewable energy is a real and tangible option for a more secure energy future, said David Crane. "Many thanks to the legendary quarterbacks, the Washington Redskins and all of their fans for working with us to show renewable energy is not just a dream for the future, but a reality today."
The solar power installation by NRG, one of the largest solar power developers in the United States, includes three different types of solar panels that collectively can generate two megawatts (MW) of electricity. By using solar power, the Redskins and NRG look to keep 1,780 metric tons of carbon out of the atmosphere -- the equivalent of replacing 349 vehicles with gasoline engines with zero emission electric vehicles.
In addition to generating power for FedExField, the stadium's 8,000 solar panels will provide shaded parking in an 841-car lot. The design includes 10 electric vehicle charging stations from NRG's eVgosm charging network for use by fans. The NRG solar entry plaza at Gate A will generate power through a variety of green energy technologies, including translucent solar panels and a specially designed sculpture created using thin film solar technology. The sculpture -- a 30-foot tall silhouette of a football player dubbed "solar man" --showcases the flexibility of this innovative solar technology and also is a one-of-a-kind work of art welcoming fans to FedExField.
NRG subsidiary Reliant will be the official provider for all the additional electricity to.....
Read more (in new window)at:www.marketwatch.com/story/nrg-washington-redskins-celebrated-fedexfield-solar-installation-with-nrg-solar-bowl-quarterback-challenge-2011-09-18
To top of blog usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
LANDOVER, Md. & PRINCETON, N.J., Sep 18, 2011 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- NRG /quotes/zigman/337115/quotes/nls/nrg NRG -1.71% and the Washington Redskins today celebrated FedExField's energy future with the help of former NFL quarterbacks and Redskins' fans during the "NRG Solar Bowl" Quarterback Challenge and an official "flipping of the switch" at halftime to inaugurate the new NRG solar power installation at FedExField.
The solar power system - with more than 8,000 solar panels - is capable of providing all power to the stadium on non-game days and up to 20% of its needed electricity on game days -- the equivalent of providing 300 homes with energy for a year. In addition to being the largest solar installation at an NFL stadium, it is the largest solar installation in the D.C.-metro area.
With the help of the football fans gathered at FedExField, NRG CEO David Crane along with Redskins legends Joe Theismann and Mark Rypien "flipped the switch" on the new solar installation from the field during the game's halftime. Prior to the game between the Redskins and Arizona, Theismann and Rypien teamed up with pro and college greats Joe Montana and Doug Flutie to coach fans in a series of skill drills during the "NRG Solar Bowl" Quarterback Challenge.
"Today's activities were developed to engage fans, call attention to the power of solar energy and demonstrate how renewable energy is a real and tangible option for a more secure energy future, said David Crane. "Many thanks to the legendary quarterbacks, the Washington Redskins and all of their fans for working with us to show renewable energy is not just a dream for the future, but a reality today."
The solar power installation by NRG, one of the largest solar power developers in the United States, includes three different types of solar panels that collectively can generate two megawatts (MW) of electricity. By using solar power, the Redskins and NRG look to keep 1,780 metric tons of carbon out of the atmosphere -- the equivalent of replacing 349 vehicles with gasoline engines with zero emission electric vehicles.
In addition to generating power for FedExField, the stadium's 8,000 solar panels will provide shaded parking in an 841-car lot. The design includes 10 electric vehicle charging stations from NRG's eVgosm charging network for use by fans. The NRG solar entry plaza at Gate A will generate power through a variety of green energy technologies, including translucent solar panels and a specially designed sculpture created using thin film solar technology. The sculpture -- a 30-foot tall silhouette of a football player dubbed "solar man" --showcases the flexibility of this innovative solar technology and also is a one-of-a-kind work of art welcoming fans to FedExField.
NRG subsidiary Reliant will be the official provider for all the additional electricity to.....
Read more (in new window)at:www.marketwatch.com/story/nrg-washington-redskins-celebrated-fedexfield-solar-installation-with-nrg-solar-bowl-quarterback-challenge-2011-09-18
To top of blog usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Solar Homes Tour 2011 Washington DC Area
Take the Solar Homes tour
October 1 thru 2. 11am to 5pm.
Guide and maps are available at Mom's Organic Markets and other locations.
Read more (in new window) at: solartour.org
To top of blog (in new window) at: usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
October 1 thru 2. 11am to 5pm.
Guide and maps are available at Mom's Organic Markets and other locations.
Read more (in new window) at: solartour.org
To top of blog (in new window) at: usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
Solar Decathlon 2011 Washington DC National Mall
Solar Decathlon 2011 Washington DC
September 23 to October 2
Come see the Solar Decathlon on the National Mall
near Potomac Park
You ask what is a solar decathlon?
It's an annual international solar homes contest.
Teams design and erect solar homes on the national mall. They are judged on design and performance. Come watch them erect the homes and later come see the winner of this years award.
Read more (in new window) at: www.solardecathlon.gov
To top of blog usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
September 23 to October 2
Come see the Solar Decathlon on the National Mall
near Potomac Park
You ask what is a solar decathlon?
It's an annual international solar homes contest.
Teams design and erect solar homes on the national mall. They are judged on design and performance. Come watch them erect the homes and later come see the winner of this years award.
Read more (in new window) at: www.solardecathlon.gov
To top of blog usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Passion For The Planet Radio and Website
Passion For The Planet Radio and Website offer many ideas on ways to save energy and improve our environment.
Nice music. Give it a listen.
Link to their website (in new window) at: passionforfreshideas.com
Link to their radio (in new window) at:passionforfreshideas.com/webplayer/AIMplayer.html
To top of blog (in new window) at:usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
Nice music. Give it a listen.
Link to their website (in new window) at: passionforfreshideas.com
Link to their radio (in new window) at:passionforfreshideas.com/webplayer/AIMplayer.html
To top of blog (in new window) at:usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Bloomberg Energy Prices
July 19, 2011
Energy and Oil Prices
Oil ($/bbl) Price Change %Change Time
Nymex Crude Future 97.90 0.40 0.41% 09:54
Dated Brent Spot 117.93 0.57 0.48% 10:05
WTI Cushing Spot 98.60 1.10 1.13% 08:59
Oil (Cents/gal) Price Change %Change Time
Nymex Heating Oil Future 310.70 0.90 0.29% 09:54
Nymex RBOB Gasoline Future 311.46 -0.03 -0.01% 09:53
Natural Gas ($/MMBtu) Price Change %Change Time
Nymex Henry Hub Future 4.49 -0.04 -0.88% 09:55
Henry Hub Spot 4.60 0.01 0.22% 07/19
New York City Gate Spot 5.09 0.10 2.00% 07/19
Electricity ($/Megawatt Hour) Price Change %Change Time
Mid-Columbia, firm on-peak, spot 32.56 3.51 12.08% 07/19
Palo Verde, firm on-peak, spot 44.88 0.62 1.40% 07/19
BLOOMBERG, FIRM ON-PEAK, DAY AHEAD SPOT/ERCOT HOUSTON 63.50 -1.58 -2.43% 07/19
Unless indicated otherwise: intraday data is at least 15 minutes delayed; mutual fund NAVs are updated at the close of every market day; all prices are in the local currency; Time is ET.
Read more (in new window) at: bloomberg.com/energy
To top of blog (in new window): www.usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
Energy and Oil Prices
Oil ($/bbl) Price Change %Change Time
Nymex Crude Future 97.90 0.40 0.41% 09:54
Dated Brent Spot 117.93 0.57 0.48% 10:05
WTI Cushing Spot 98.60 1.10 1.13% 08:59
Oil (Cents/gal) Price Change %Change Time
Nymex Heating Oil Future 310.70 0.90 0.29% 09:54
Nymex RBOB Gasoline Future 311.46 -0.03 -0.01% 09:53
Natural Gas ($/MMBtu) Price Change %Change Time
Nymex Henry Hub Future 4.49 -0.04 -0.88% 09:55
Henry Hub Spot 4.60 0.01 0.22% 07/19
New York City Gate Spot 5.09 0.10 2.00% 07/19
Electricity ($/Megawatt Hour) Price Change %Change Time
Mid-Columbia, firm on-peak, spot 32.56 3.51 12.08% 07/19
Palo Verde, firm on-peak, spot 44.88 0.62 1.40% 07/19
BLOOMBERG, FIRM ON-PEAK, DAY AHEAD SPOT/ERCOT HOUSTON 63.50 -1.58 -2.43% 07/19
Unless indicated otherwise: intraday data is at least 15 minutes delayed; mutual fund NAVs are updated at the close of every market day; all prices are in the local currency; Time is ET.
Read more (in new window) at: bloomberg.com/energy
To top of blog (in new window): www.usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
Thursday, June 9, 2011
ARE YOU ADDICTED TO OIL?
Fighting the oil addiction
Unrest in the Middle East has raised concerns about how dependent the United States is on foreign oil. The price of gasoline has been skyrocketing. And the recession has continued to make many Americans feel more economically vulnerable. Americans continued to feel the painful pinch of gasoline prices in 2010 – and they still do today.
This report updates the Natural Resources Defense Council’s (NRDC) 2007, 2008, 2009, and 2010 research identifying the states whose citizens feel the greatest economic pain from gasoline prices — and those states that are doing the most to break their addiction to oil. Like the previous editions, this report again ranks U.S. states in two critical areas related to our nation’s continuing addiction to oil.
First, it calculates gasoline price vulnerability – how heavily each state’s drivers are affected by increases in gasoline prices. Second, it ranks states based on their adoption of solutions to reduce their oil dependence – measures they are taking to lessen their vulnerability and to bolster America’s security.
The data yield some clear conclusions:
Oil dependence affects all states, but some states’ drivers are hit harder economically than others. Drivers in almost every state in 2010 spent a higher percentage of their income on gasoline than they did in 2009, and drivers in the most vulnerable states spent more than twice as large a percentage of their income on gasoline as drivers in the least vulnerable states.
Drivers are being hit even harder right now than they were in 2010.
While some states are pioneering solutions and many are taking some action, many states are still taking few (if any) of the steps listed in this report to reduce their oil dependence.
To curb America’s perilous oil addiction, we need effective government policies that will increase the availability and use of efficient vehicles and clean fuels, as well as promote smart growth and public transit.
ARE YOU ADDICTED TO OIL?
Here is a link to nrdc org issue paper May 2011:
Read more (in new window) at: www.nrdc.org/energy/states/files/Oil_Vulnerability_May_2011.pdf
Read more (in new window) at: www.nrdc.org/energy/states
To top of blog (in new window) at: usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
Unrest in the Middle East has raised concerns about how dependent the United States is on foreign oil. The price of gasoline has been skyrocketing. And the recession has continued to make many Americans feel more economically vulnerable. Americans continued to feel the painful pinch of gasoline prices in 2010 – and they still do today.
This report updates the Natural Resources Defense Council’s (NRDC) 2007, 2008, 2009, and 2010 research identifying the states whose citizens feel the greatest economic pain from gasoline prices — and those states that are doing the most to break their addiction to oil. Like the previous editions, this report again ranks U.S. states in two critical areas related to our nation’s continuing addiction to oil.
First, it calculates gasoline price vulnerability – how heavily each state’s drivers are affected by increases in gasoline prices. Second, it ranks states based on their adoption of solutions to reduce their oil dependence – measures they are taking to lessen their vulnerability and to bolster America’s security.
The data yield some clear conclusions:
Oil dependence affects all states, but some states’ drivers are hit harder economically than others. Drivers in almost every state in 2010 spent a higher percentage of their income on gasoline than they did in 2009, and drivers in the most vulnerable states spent more than twice as large a percentage of their income on gasoline as drivers in the least vulnerable states.
Drivers are being hit even harder right now than they were in 2010.
While some states are pioneering solutions and many are taking some action, many states are still taking few (if any) of the steps listed in this report to reduce their oil dependence.
To curb America’s perilous oil addiction, we need effective government policies that will increase the availability and use of efficient vehicles and clean fuels, as well as promote smart growth and public transit.
ARE YOU ADDICTED TO OIL?
Here is a link to nrdc org issue paper May 2011:
Read more (in new window) at: www.nrdc.org/energy/states/files/Oil_Vulnerability_May_2011.pdf
Read more (in new window) at: www.nrdc.org/energy/states
To top of blog (in new window) at: usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
Thursday, May 26, 2011
The Most Innovative Countries In Clean And Alternative Energy
The Most Innovative Countries In Clean And Alternative Energy
May. 25 2011 - 9:52 pm | 1,175 views | 0 recommendations | 0 comments
By MATTHEW HERPER
This story is one of four parts examining the scientific output of different nations in biology, clean energy, and computer science. Start here.
Research into clean and alternative energy is exploding, with everyone from giants like ExxonMobil and BP to upstarts like Amyris and Codexis getting into the market. And the U.S. is taking the lead in scientific publications on the topic — at least for now.
From 2005 until the end of 2009, researchers in the United States published 233,787 scientific papers related to clean and alternative energy, representing a quarter of the global total.
The Most Innovative Countries | Information Technology | Clean And Alternative Energy| Biology and Medicine
That data comes from a report generated for Forbes by Elsevier’s SciVal Analytics arm using a database called Scopus. It is one of three reports SciVal ran for Forbes on the most innovative countries. The other two focus on information technology, and on biology and medicine.
Read more (in new window) at: http://blogs.forbes.com/matthewherper/2011/05/25/the-most-innovative-countries-in-clean-and-alternative-energy/
To top of blog usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
May. 25 2011 - 9:52 pm | 1,175 views | 0 recommendations | 0 comments
By MATTHEW HERPER
This story is one of four parts examining the scientific output of different nations in biology, clean energy, and computer science. Start here.
Research into clean and alternative energy is exploding, with everyone from giants like ExxonMobil and BP to upstarts like Amyris and Codexis getting into the market. And the U.S. is taking the lead in scientific publications on the topic — at least for now.
From 2005 until the end of 2009, researchers in the United States published 233,787 scientific papers related to clean and alternative energy, representing a quarter of the global total.
The Most Innovative Countries | Information Technology | Clean And Alternative Energy| Biology and Medicine
That data comes from a report generated for Forbes by Elsevier’s SciVal Analytics arm using a database called Scopus. It is one of three reports SciVal ran for Forbes on the most innovative countries. The other two focus on information technology, and on biology and medicine.
Read more (in new window) at: http://blogs.forbes.com/matthewherper/2011/05/25/the-most-innovative-countries-in-clean-and-alternative-energy/
To top of blog usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
Monday, May 23, 2011
Japan Considering Solar Panels For All Homes
Japan Considering Solar Power For Every Single
Building By 2030
Sam Biddle —Both because they're a country dedicated to teeny tiny carbon footprints, and because they're likely not too hot on nuclear power at the moment, Japan is expected to kick off a universal solar panel initiative. Every building, twenty years.
The plan, making mandatory solar panels for all residential and commercial buildings, is likely to debut at the impending G8 summit, and would put Japan at the fore of the global alternate energy push. They've probably got what it takes to pull it off—we hope it switches over from plan to reality. [PhysOrg]
Read more (in new window) at: gizmodo.com/5804553/japan-considering-solar-power-for-every-single-building-by-2030
To top of blog usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
Building By 2030
Sam Biddle —Both because they're a country dedicated to teeny tiny carbon footprints, and because they're likely not too hot on nuclear power at the moment, Japan is expected to kick off a universal solar panel initiative. Every building, twenty years.
The plan, making mandatory solar panels for all residential and commercial buildings, is likely to debut at the impending G8 summit, and would put Japan at the fore of the global alternate energy push. They've probably got what it takes to pull it off—we hope it switches over from plan to reality. [PhysOrg]
Read more (in new window) at: gizmodo.com/5804553/japan-considering-solar-power-for-every-single-building-by-2030
To top of blog usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Ford Says 25% Of It's Cars Will Be Electric 2020
By Joseph Lichterman of AutoWeek
About 25 percent of Ford Motor Co.'s fleet will be electrified by 2020, Chairman Bill Ford wrote in an article for Fortune magazine, published online on Tuesday.
With global oil prices rising and more congestion on the roads, Ford wrote that it is critical for the automakers to build smarter and cleaner-running cars that people will want to drive.
"For the first time in more than a century, some of the most fundamental and enduring elements of the automobile are being radically transformed," Ford wrote.
The company is "hedging its bets" by developing hybrid, plug-in hybrid and fully electric vehicles, Ford wrote, because he isn't sure which technology ultimately will prevail.
Ford Motor Co. will introduce its fully electric Focus along with two versions — plug-in hybrid and fully electric — of its new C-MaxX small minivan this year. Late last year, General Motors introduced the plug-in hybrid Chevrolet Volt, and Nissan Motor Co. launched the electric Leaf.
Ford wrote that the key to the budding electric car market is the lithium-ion battery. Asia has the lead in developing these batteries, Ford wrote, adding that the U.S. government should aid in building the American battery industry.
"I think it's a matter of national security to have a competitive American battery industry," Ford wrote. "Washington should increase r&d spending here unless they want to cede the development of batteries to other nations."
Congestion is another key issue, Ford wrote: "A green traffic jam is still a traffic jam."
In response, Ford and other automakers are developing vehicle-to-vehicle communications that will alert drivers to traffic and potentially dangerous situations, and help them find parking spots in crowded cities.
Read more (in new window) at: editorial.autos.msn.com/article.aspx?cp-documentid=1185287&icid=autos_0544>1=22006
To top of blog usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
About 25 percent of Ford Motor Co.'s fleet will be electrified by 2020, Chairman Bill Ford wrote in an article for Fortune magazine, published online on Tuesday.
With global oil prices rising and more congestion on the roads, Ford wrote that it is critical for the automakers to build smarter and cleaner-running cars that people will want to drive.
"For the first time in more than a century, some of the most fundamental and enduring elements of the automobile are being radically transformed," Ford wrote.
The company is "hedging its bets" by developing hybrid, plug-in hybrid and fully electric vehicles, Ford wrote, because he isn't sure which technology ultimately will prevail.
Ford Motor Co. will introduce its fully electric Focus along with two versions — plug-in hybrid and fully electric — of its new C-MaxX small minivan this year. Late last year, General Motors introduced the plug-in hybrid Chevrolet Volt, and Nissan Motor Co. launched the electric Leaf.
Ford wrote that the key to the budding electric car market is the lithium-ion battery. Asia has the lead in developing these batteries, Ford wrote, adding that the U.S. government should aid in building the American battery industry.
"I think it's a matter of national security to have a competitive American battery industry," Ford wrote. "Washington should increase r&d spending here unless they want to cede the development of batteries to other nations."
Congestion is another key issue, Ford wrote: "A green traffic jam is still a traffic jam."
In response, Ford and other automakers are developing vehicle-to-vehicle communications that will alert drivers to traffic and potentially dangerous situations, and help them find parking spots in crowded cities.
Read more (in new window) at: editorial.autos.msn.com/article.aspx?cp-documentid=1185287&icid=autos_0544>1=22006
To top of blog usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
Monday, April 11, 2011
Solar Panel and System Lease
Solar City Lease Program
0 Down
I just heard about this on the radio today.
I will look into this and let you know more about this program.
If anyone tries it, let us know how it works and what you think.
Would you recommend it to others?
Read more (in new window) at: solarcity.com
To top of blog usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
0 Down
I just heard about this on the radio today.
I will look into this and let you know more about this program.
If anyone tries it, let us know how it works and what you think.
Would you recommend it to others?
Read more (in new window) at: solarcity.com
To top of blog usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
Texas Gov. Perry Boosts Electric Cars
ARLINGTON, Texas – In a state where the oil and gas industry is king, the arrival of electric vehicles and building the charging infrastructure have jolted the public's perception about Texas, Gov. Rick Perry said Friday.
"Here in Texas, we don't just talk about it. We're doing something about it," Perry said in Arlington at an energy company's event, later joking that most people probably would not have associated Texas with emission-free vehicles.
But it's "what they should have been thinking," he said.
Texas already has dozens of charging stations in Austin, San Antonio, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston and some suburbs, according to the U.S. Department of Energy's Alternative Fuels & Advanced Vehicles Data Center. Drivers can plug their cars into docking stations at various places — including Houston City Hall, a hotel near Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, a San Antonio Church and even the Dell Computers headquarters near Austin.
All electric cars can be charged at those slower charging stations that add power in about four to eight hours, depending on the size and life left in the battery, industry officials said. But electric cars are still fairly new, and some attribute slow sales to the vehicles' high costs and use limited to short trips.
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On Friday, NRG Energy said its new station at a drug store in Dallas is the state's first fast-charging station, which can be used by some of the vehicles and has a recharger with a 480-volt direct current that can add 30 miles of range to an electric car in as few as 10 minutes. NRG plans to install 70 of the stations in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and another 50 in the Houston area by the end of next year, a privately funded project with AeroVironment, which designed and produced the charging stations.
"It's not like you're going to Walgreen's and spend eight hours, but when you leave you're more charged," said Kristen Helsel, a vice president at AeroVironment.
NRG's chief executive David Crane said that while Texas is known as the oil and gas capital, "There's nothing that was announced today that's going to change that ... and that's not all that Texas is. Now it's time for electric vehicles."
The Lone Star State is joining the rest of the nation in promoting the adoption of electric vehicles — especially as the national average for regular unleaded gasoline rose to $3.71 a gallon over the past week, according to AAA.
Also in Houston, the city has its own program through a partnership with Reliant Energy. Ten charging stations have been up and running for about a year, and 25 more are being installed, said Laura Spanjian, the city's sustainability director.
Houston also is buying electric cars for the city's fleet and has received federal stimulus money for another 30 charging stations to serve those municipal vehicles, she said. The first, a Nissan Leaf, is expected to arrive in the next week or two.
"We would have the first electric car of any city fleet in Texas," Spanjian said.
Austin was one of nine cities that benefitted from a federal program that enables the city to get up to 200 charging stations, as long as they install 100 by the end of this summer. The city has already put in about a dozen, said Carlos Cordova, spokesman for Austin Energy, the city-owned electric utility.
He said Austin is predicting there will be about 150 electric vehicles on city roads this year and maybe another 150 next year — but up to 36,000 electric vehicles by 2020.
"It will develop slowly," Cordova said, noting that projections are based on research conducted by the Electric Power Research Institute.
Some cities and states offer rebates to encourage buying electric vehicles Those displayed at the Arlington Convention Center on Friday were the Toyota Prius PHV, Chevrolet Volt, VIA Truck, Tesla Roadster, Smart fortwo EV, Mitsubishi i-MiEV and Nissan Leaf.
Click here for more news from Fox Car Report
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0 new comment was just posted. Show jrtexas 11 minutes ago
Great idea. I drive NEV here on the old cavalry fort where I live. However, the nearest real town (Walmart) is 35 miles. We travel 40 plus miles to buy groceries or go to the doctor We go 50 plus miles to the dentist. When someone develops an electric car that will get us there and back at a reasonable (not 40 grand) price then we will consider an electric vehicle.
Unless you live in an urban environment these vehicles are simply not practical. Not to mention insane costs.
Like Flag
nativeson1 19 minutes ago
Let me see here .more electric cars .they get charge by and with with electricity ...Electricity need nuclear,coal or hydro to make more electricity..I get make more electric cars so we need more electric power to waste more electricity and burn just a little less fossil fuel
Like 1 person liked this. Flag
nomorecommies 26 minutes ago
Funny thing. In 1900, there were more electric cars in NYC than cars with internal combustion engines. Why do we have such trouble making a decent affordable reliable electric car now???? LAZY OVERPAID ZERO WORK ZERO QUALITY UNION THUGS!!!!!!!!!
Like 1 person liked this. Flag
j3bhu 23 minutes ago in reply to nomorecommies
What a stupid thing to say. Like the unions are in charge of R and D at all the major car companies in the world.
Grow up and stop throwing out hatred just to make your political point. It makes you look foolish.
Like Flag
j3bhu 30 minutes ago
If they are so great how come the governor and all of his staff and all other politicians aren't driving them and using the m for government vehicles?
It is always the little guys who need to change our ways and tighten our belts while the governors and senators and celebrities continue to live like kings, mostly on our money.
As soon as all government officials are issued electric cars they can start telling me what to drive.
Like Flag
166mhz 52 minutes ago
I can hardly wait until someone thinks of a way to get something else out of these charging stations .. it's not me - it's just the way the system is setup .. first there was a garage to fix the car then it sold frito chips and sodas turning it into a quick mart -- then a service station - then a truck stop - then a major truck stop city .. and on and on and on ... you get the idea...
Like Flag
chaplaincog 1 hour ago
This government should be doing everything possible to push the electric car and get off the Middle East oil. thefatherslovebook.com
Like Flag
Roy H. Taylor, Sr 2 hours ago
If anyone is clearly concerned about an electric car then why not bring back GMs EV-1. Who Killed the Electric Car? A very good film about the disappearance of an electric car from the roads in California that apparently was working just fine. What about a fuel efficient diesel car? There are plenty in foreign countries that are superior to our models. Some of the VW diesels are reaching 70 mpg figures, why can't we have one of these? By the way these diesels are also environmental friendly when compared to gas or hybrid versions. Read auto magazines that reach a world reading population or look up on the internet, these diesels exist now!
Like 1 person liked this. Flag
synical5 5 hours ago
Last I read, the electric cars are mostly kaput after going up a steep hill with a full load of people.
I doubt too many people will take to these "puddle jumpers". Why not a set up like diesel Locomotives?
A constant speed gasoline engine attached electronically to a set of drive motors on the axels,
Actuated by a low battery indication.
Of course you could put a Pick up bed on it and take it to the Golf Course!
Look out Augusta, here I come!
Like 3 people liked this. Flag
ancienttexan 5 hours ago
Living in WesTexas and 60 miles from the next town in any direction, I can't think of any thing more worthless than an expensive electric car. Get real! Gov. Perry knows better than this.
Like 5 people liked this. Flag
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"Here in Texas, we don't just talk about it. We're doing something about it," Perry said in Arlington at an energy company's event, later joking that most people probably would not have associated Texas with emission-free vehicles.
But it's "what they should have been thinking," he said.
Texas already has dozens of charging stations in Austin, San Antonio, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston and some suburbs, according to the U.S. Department of Energy's Alternative Fuels & Advanced Vehicles Data Center. Drivers can plug their cars into docking stations at various places — including Houston City Hall, a hotel near Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, a San Antonio Church and even the Dell Computers headquarters near Austin.
All electric cars can be charged at those slower charging stations that add power in about four to eight hours, depending on the size and life left in the battery, industry officials said. But electric cars are still fairly new, and some attribute slow sales to the vehicles' high costs and use limited to short trips.
Related Video
Building The Chevy Volt
Behind the scenes with Chevy Volt team
Related Video
Family Car of the Future?
Review: 2011 Nissan Leaf
On Friday, NRG Energy said its new station at a drug store in Dallas is the state's first fast-charging station, which can be used by some of the vehicles and has a recharger with a 480-volt direct current that can add 30 miles of range to an electric car in as few as 10 minutes. NRG plans to install 70 of the stations in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and another 50 in the Houston area by the end of next year, a privately funded project with AeroVironment, which designed and produced the charging stations.
"It's not like you're going to Walgreen's and spend eight hours, but when you leave you're more charged," said Kristen Helsel, a vice president at AeroVironment.
NRG's chief executive David Crane said that while Texas is known as the oil and gas capital, "There's nothing that was announced today that's going to change that ... and that's not all that Texas is. Now it's time for electric vehicles."
The Lone Star State is joining the rest of the nation in promoting the adoption of electric vehicles — especially as the national average for regular unleaded gasoline rose to $3.71 a gallon over the past week, according to AAA.
Also in Houston, the city has its own program through a partnership with Reliant Energy. Ten charging stations have been up and running for about a year, and 25 more are being installed, said Laura Spanjian, the city's sustainability director.
Houston also is buying electric cars for the city's fleet and has received federal stimulus money for another 30 charging stations to serve those municipal vehicles, she said. The first, a Nissan Leaf, is expected to arrive in the next week or two.
"We would have the first electric car of any city fleet in Texas," Spanjian said.
Austin was one of nine cities that benefitted from a federal program that enables the city to get up to 200 charging stations, as long as they install 100 by the end of this summer. The city has already put in about a dozen, said Carlos Cordova, spokesman for Austin Energy, the city-owned electric utility.
He said Austin is predicting there will be about 150 electric vehicles on city roads this year and maybe another 150 next year — but up to 36,000 electric vehicles by 2020.
"It will develop slowly," Cordova said, noting that projections are based on research conducted by the Electric Power Research Institute.
Some cities and states offer rebates to encourage buying electric vehicles Those displayed at the Arlington Convention Center on Friday were the Toyota Prius PHV, Chevrolet Volt, VIA Truck, Tesla Roadster, Smart fortwo EV, Mitsubishi i-MiEV and Nissan Leaf.
Click here for more news from Fox Car Report
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0 new comment was just posted. Show jrtexas 11 minutes ago
Great idea. I drive NEV here on the old cavalry fort where I live. However, the nearest real town (Walmart) is 35 miles. We travel 40 plus miles to buy groceries or go to the doctor We go 50 plus miles to the dentist. When someone develops an electric car that will get us there and back at a reasonable (not 40 grand) price then we will consider an electric vehicle.
Unless you live in an urban environment these vehicles are simply not practical. Not to mention insane costs.
Like Flag
nativeson1 19 minutes ago
Let me see here .more electric cars .they get charge by and with with electricity ...Electricity need nuclear,coal or hydro to make more electricity..I get make more electric cars so we need more electric power to waste more electricity and burn just a little less fossil fuel
Like 1 person liked this. Flag
nomorecommies 26 minutes ago
Funny thing. In 1900, there were more electric cars in NYC than cars with internal combustion engines. Why do we have such trouble making a decent affordable reliable electric car now???? LAZY OVERPAID ZERO WORK ZERO QUALITY UNION THUGS!!!!!!!!!
Like 1 person liked this. Flag
j3bhu 23 minutes ago in reply to nomorecommies
What a stupid thing to say. Like the unions are in charge of R and D at all the major car companies in the world.
Grow up and stop throwing out hatred just to make your political point. It makes you look foolish.
Like Flag
j3bhu 30 minutes ago
If they are so great how come the governor and all of his staff and all other politicians aren't driving them and using the m for government vehicles?
It is always the little guys who need to change our ways and tighten our belts while the governors and senators and celebrities continue to live like kings, mostly on our money.
As soon as all government officials are issued electric cars they can start telling me what to drive.
Like Flag
166mhz 52 minutes ago
I can hardly wait until someone thinks of a way to get something else out of these charging stations .. it's not me - it's just the way the system is setup .. first there was a garage to fix the car then it sold frito chips and sodas turning it into a quick mart -- then a service station - then a truck stop - then a major truck stop city .. and on and on and on ... you get the idea...
Like Flag
chaplaincog 1 hour ago
This government should be doing everything possible to push the electric car and get off the Middle East oil. thefatherslovebook.com
Like Flag
Roy H. Taylor, Sr 2 hours ago
If anyone is clearly concerned about an electric car then why not bring back GMs EV-1. Who Killed the Electric Car? A very good film about the disappearance of an electric car from the roads in California that apparently was working just fine. What about a fuel efficient diesel car? There are plenty in foreign countries that are superior to our models. Some of the VW diesels are reaching 70 mpg figures, why can't we have one of these? By the way these diesels are also environmental friendly when compared to gas or hybrid versions. Read auto magazines that reach a world reading population or look up on the internet, these diesels exist now!
Like 1 person liked this. Flag
synical5 5 hours ago
Last I read, the electric cars are mostly kaput after going up a steep hill with a full load of people.
I doubt too many people will take to these "puddle jumpers". Why not a set up like diesel Locomotives?
A constant speed gasoline engine attached electronically to a set of drive motors on the axels,
Actuated by a low battery indication.
Of course you could put a Pick up bed on it and take it to the Golf Course!
Look out Augusta, here I come!
Like 3 people liked this. Flag
ancienttexan 5 hours ago
Living in WesTexas and 60 miles from the next town in any direction, I can't think of any thing more worthless than an expensive electric car. Get real! Gov. Perry knows better than this.
Like 5 people liked this. Flag
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Steve Wozniak Would Consider Returning to Apple (FOXNews.com - SciTech)Retired Justice O'Connor Draws Criticism Over Political, Judicial Activities (FOXNews.com - Politics)Reese Witherspoon Talks About the 9,000-Pound Elephant in the Room, Her Cougar Role and Her Fear of Sexy Costumes (FOXNews.com - Entertainment)Upside Down Amusement Park Opens in Myrtle Beach (FOXNews.com - Leisure)Travel: Fresno In 5... (FOXNews.com - Leisure)
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Read more (in new window) at: foxnews.com/leisure/2011/04/11/texas-gov-pushing-electric-cars/
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Saturday, March 5, 2011
19th Annual Environmental Film Festival, March 15-27
19th Annual Festival, March 15-27
60 Venues, 150 Films, 26,000+ Filmgoers
Washington, D.C.
As the Environmental Film Festival launches its annual celebration of the natural world on screens across Washington, D.C., we explore one of the most controversial and timely topics of our day: the critical relationship between energy and the environment. Please join us in March as we present 150 diverse and engaging films from 40 countries.
2011 Program Additions & Changes
Date: March 3, 2011
Program Changes:
• The film, “Elite Squad 2,” scheduled for March 16 at E Street Cinema, has been cancelled.
• The film, “Black Ocean,” will screen on March 21 at 7 p.m. at Embassy of France (changed from March 17)
• The film, “We Still Live Here: As Nutayunean,” will screen at the Carnegie Institution for Science on March 25 at 8:30 p.m. (originally scheduled at the National Museum of the American Indian on March 25 at 7 p.m.)
Program Additions:
• The Washington, D.C. Premiere of “America’s Wildest Refuge” about the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge will take place on March 27 at 12:15 p.m. at the National Museum of Natural History.
• An additional screening of the film, “Oil Rocks: City Above the Sea,” is scheduled for March 27 at 3:30 p.m. at the Carnegie Institution for Science.
List of some films (in new window) at: www.dcenvironmentalfilmfest.org/films
Link to download full program (in new window):
http://www.dcenvironmentalfilmfest.org/images/uploads/2/media.2772.pdf
Read more (in new window) at www.dcenvironmentalfilmfest.org
To top of blog usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
60 Venues, 150 Films, 26,000+ Filmgoers
Washington, D.C.
As the Environmental Film Festival launches its annual celebration of the natural world on screens across Washington, D.C., we explore one of the most controversial and timely topics of our day: the critical relationship between energy and the environment. Please join us in March as we present 150 diverse and engaging films from 40 countries.
2011 Program Additions & Changes
Date: March 3, 2011
Program Changes:
• The film, “Elite Squad 2,” scheduled for March 16 at E Street Cinema, has been cancelled.
• The film, “Black Ocean,” will screen on March 21 at 7 p.m. at Embassy of France (changed from March 17)
• The film, “We Still Live Here: As Nutayunean,” will screen at the Carnegie Institution for Science on March 25 at 8:30 p.m. (originally scheduled at the National Museum of the American Indian on March 25 at 7 p.m.)
Program Additions:
• The Washington, D.C. Premiere of “America’s Wildest Refuge” about the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge will take place on March 27 at 12:15 p.m. at the National Museum of Natural History.
• An additional screening of the film, “Oil Rocks: City Above the Sea,” is scheduled for March 27 at 3:30 p.m. at the Carnegie Institution for Science.
List of some films (in new window) at: www.dcenvironmentalfilmfest.org/films
Link to download full program (in new window):
http://www.dcenvironmentalfilmfest.org/images/uploads/2/media.2772.pdf
Read more (in new window) at www.dcenvironmentalfilmfest.org
To top of blog usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Environmental Film Festival Underway In DC
Environmental Film Festival
by Eliza Barclay, Washington, D.C. on 03.12.09
Culture & Celebrity
The 17th annual Environmental Film Festival in the Nation’s Capital kicked off yesterday and will continue through March 22 with 136 eco-themed documentary, feature, animated, archival, experimental and children’s films. This year's festival has several films on oceans and sea life and a special Ocean Film Series, including the world premiere of The State of the Planet's Oceans, hosted and narrated by Matt Damon. Among other special guests, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author Hedrick Smith will speak March 15 about water pollution and show clips from his upcoming film, Poisoned Waters, airing April on PBS Frontline, comparing the Chesapeake Bay to Puget Sound.
A Sea Change, which looks at the growing menace of ocean acidification, is another important film premiering at the festival. It is a particularly timely documentary, especially given that the issue is among the top priorities at the International Scientific Congress on Climate Change this week in Copenhagen. Already, ocean acidity has increased about 32% since pre-industrial times, according to the BBC.
Director Barbara Ettinger and husband Sven Huseby, an environmentalist, were inspired by an article by Elizabeth Kolbert in The New Yorker, "The Darkening Sea," published in 2006. The film will screen March 16 at the National Museum of Natural History.
Another film of interest for ocean lovers is At the Edge of the World, a documentary on the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, a group of eco pirates who fight for conservation on the Antarctic Ocean.
More on Environmental Films:
American U's Film School Creates Code of Best Practices for Sustainable Filmmaking
SnagFilms Environmental Film Festival
Cameron Diaz's Green Film Club
Flipping Kenya's Coastal Flotsam
Earthwatching: Seen Any Good Green Movies Lately?
Read more (in new window) at: www.treehugger.com/files/2009/03/dc-environmental-film-festival.php
To top of blog usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
by Eliza Barclay, Washington, D.C. on 03.12.09
Culture & Celebrity
The 17th annual Environmental Film Festival in the Nation’s Capital kicked off yesterday and will continue through March 22 with 136 eco-themed documentary, feature, animated, archival, experimental and children’s films. This year's festival has several films on oceans and sea life and a special Ocean Film Series, including the world premiere of The State of the Planet's Oceans, hosted and narrated by Matt Damon. Among other special guests, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author Hedrick Smith will speak March 15 about water pollution and show clips from his upcoming film, Poisoned Waters, airing April on PBS Frontline, comparing the Chesapeake Bay to Puget Sound.
A Sea Change, which looks at the growing menace of ocean acidification, is another important film premiering at the festival. It is a particularly timely documentary, especially given that the issue is among the top priorities at the International Scientific Congress on Climate Change this week in Copenhagen. Already, ocean acidity has increased about 32% since pre-industrial times, according to the BBC.
Director Barbara Ettinger and husband Sven Huseby, an environmentalist, were inspired by an article by Elizabeth Kolbert in The New Yorker, "The Darkening Sea," published in 2006. The film will screen March 16 at the National Museum of Natural History.
Another film of interest for ocean lovers is At the Edge of the World, a documentary on the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, a group of eco pirates who fight for conservation on the Antarctic Ocean.
More on Environmental Films:
American U's Film School Creates Code of Best Practices for Sustainable Filmmaking
SnagFilms Environmental Film Festival
Cameron Diaz's Green Film Club
Flipping Kenya's Coastal Flotsam
Earthwatching: Seen Any Good Green Movies Lately?
Read more (in new window) at: www.treehugger.com/files/2009/03/dc-environmental-film-festival.php
To top of blog usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Wind-powered car sets records in a 3,100-mile road test
Two German inventors have created an electric vehicle that recharges the battery through a wind turbine carried in the car. To test the vehicle, the duo recently completed a 3,100-mile trek across Australia.
It is almost like German adventurers Dirk Gion and Stefan Simmerer saw the latest models of electric cars, and decided to see if they could go out and make the manufacturers feel bad. In a move that will have green aficionados cheering and gearheads gently weeping at the state of the world, a new electric car powered by a wind turbine has just been unleashed into the Australian wilds.
The vehicle, known as the Wind Explorer, uses an electric battery similar to those found in most of the current generation of electric cars like the Chevy Volt and Nissan Leaf, but rather than needing to plug in every night, the Wind Explorer comes standard with a 20-foot retractable bamboo mast that holds a wind turbine to charge the battery. The Wind Runner can also be powered—or perhaps more accurately “dragged”—by a kite, assuming of course that there is ample wind. The result is a lightweight electric car that weighs under 500 pounds and has a top speed of 55 miles an hour, all with close to zero emissions.
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To test their new eco-mobile, the Germans travelled to Australia, where they planned to drive (and sail) the Wind Explorer from the southwestern Australian town of Albany, head east on the southern coast, and arrive in Sydney on the southeastern tip of the continent to the cheers of a handful, and the bewildered stares of most. The entire trip took 18 days, covered 3,100 miles and set a handful of world records, including being the first wind-powered vehicle to cross a continent, the longest overall distance covered for a wind-powered vehicle on land, and the longest distance covered in 36 hours by a wind-powered vehicle, as well as several others in the same vein. The trip across Australia also marks the first nearly emission-free trip across a continent in a vehicle. Even horses, which some might consider green in a sense, emit more pollution from the methane in their waste than the Wind Explorer.
Dirk Gion and Stefan Simmerer
The Wind Explorer uses an 8kWh lithium-ion battery, similar to what most electric cars are packing; the difference is in the means of charging the battery. Although it has a plug to charge the battery from the power grid, the real focus of the Wind Explorer is the wind turbine. When the car is in need of a charge, the drivers hoist a 20-foot collapsible mast, housed in a special compartment that runs between the driver and passenger seat, and the turbine begins to charge the battery. Once fully charged, the vehicle averaged close to 250 miles before needing to be recharged.
The exact length of time it took to recharge the battery using a wind turbine varies with conditions, but from the grid, it typically recharges at a rate of 20-percent per hour at maximum input.
To top of blog usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
Lingering Affects of Gulf Oil Spill
Scientist finds Gulf bottom still oily, dead
By SETH BORENSTEIN, AP Science Writer Seth Borenstein, Ap Science Writer – Sat Feb 19, 8:53 pm ET
WASHINGTON – Oil from the BP spill remains stuck on the bottom of the Gulf of Mexico, according to a top scientist's video and slides that she says demonstrate the oil isn't degrading as hoped and has decimated life on parts of the sea floor.
That report is at odds with a recent report by the BP spill compensation czar that said nearly all will be well by 2012.
At a science conference in Washington Saturday, marine scientist Samantha Joye of the University of Georgia aired early results of her December submarine dives around the BP spill site. She went to places she had visited in the summer and expected the oil and residue from oil-munching microbes would be gone by then. It wasn't.
"There's some sort of a bottleneck we have yet to identify for why this stuff doesn't seem to be degrading," Joye told the American Association for the Advancement of Science annual conference in Washington. Her research and those of her colleagues contrasts with other studies that show a more optimistic outlook about the health of the gulf, saying microbes did great work munching the oil.
"Magic microbes consumed maybe 10 percent of the total discharge, the rest of it we don't know," Joye said, later adding: "there's a lot of it out there."
The head of the agency in charge of the health of the Gulf said Saturday that she thought that "most of the oil is gone." And a Department of Energy scientist, doing research with a grant from BP from before the spill, said his examination of oil plumes in the water column show that microbes have done a "fairly fast" job of eating the oil. Lawrence Berkeley National Lab scientist Terry Hazen said his research differs from Joye's because they looked at different places at different times.
Joye's research was more widespread, but has been slower in being published in scientific literature.
In five different expeditions, the last one in December, Joye and colleagues took 250 cores of the sea floor and travelled across 2,600 square miles. Some of the locations she had been studying before the oil spill on April 20 and said there was a noticeable change. Much of the oil she found on the sea floor — and in the water column — was chemically fingerprinted, proving it comes from the BP spill. Joye is still waiting for results to show other oil samples she tested are from BP's Macondo well.
She also showed pictures of oil-choked bottom-dwelling creatures. They included dead crabs and brittle stars — starfish like critters that are normally bright orange and tightly wrapped around coral. These brittle stars were pale, loose and dead. She also saw tube worms so full of oil they suffocated.
"This is Macondo oil on the bottom," Joye said as she showed slides. "This is dead organisms because of oil being deposited on their heads."
Joye said her research shows that the burning of oil left soot on the sea floor, which still had petroleum products. And even more troublesome was the tremendous amount of methane from the BP well that mixed into the Gulf and was mostly ignored by other researchers.
Joye and three colleagues last week published a study in Nature Geoscience that said the amount of gas injected into the Gulf was the equivalent of between 1.5 and 3 million barrels of oil.
"The gas is an important part of understanding what happened," said Ian MacDonald of Florida State University.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration chief Jane Lubchenco told reporters Saturday that "it's not a contradiction to say that although most of the oil is gone, there still remains oil out there."
Earlier this month, Kenneth Feinberg, the government's oil compensation fund czar, said based on research he commissioned he figured the Gulf of Mexico would almost fully recover by 2012 — something Joye and Lubchenco said isn't right.
"I've been to the bottom. I've seen what it looks like with my own eyes. It's not going to be fine by 2012," Joye told The Associated Press. "You see what the bottom looks like, you have a different opinion."
NOAA chief Lubchenco said "even though the oil degraded relatively rapidly and is now mostly but not all gone, damage done to a variety of species may not become obvious for years to come."
Lubchenco Saturday also announced the start of a Gulf restoration planning process to get the Gulf back to the condition it was on Apr. 19, the day before the spill. That program would eventually be paid for BP and other parties deemed responsible for the spill. This would be separate from an already begun restoration program that would improve all aspects of the Gulf, not just the oil spill, but has not been funded by the government yet, she said.
The new program, which is part of the Natural Resources Damage Assessment program, is part of the oil spill litigation — or out-of-court settlement — in which the polluters pay for overall damage to the ecosystem and efforts to return it to normal. This is different than paying compensation to people and businesses directly damaged by the spill.
The process will begin with public meetings all over the region.
___
Online:
Joye's website (in new window): http://www.marsci.uga.edu/directory/mjoye.htm
NOAA's restoration site (in new window): http://www.gulfspillrestoration.noaa.gov
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By SETH BORENSTEIN, AP Science Writer Seth Borenstein, Ap Science Writer – Sat Feb 19, 8:53 pm ET
WASHINGTON – Oil from the BP spill remains stuck on the bottom of the Gulf of Mexico, according to a top scientist's video and slides that she says demonstrate the oil isn't degrading as hoped and has decimated life on parts of the sea floor.
That report is at odds with a recent report by the BP spill compensation czar that said nearly all will be well by 2012.
At a science conference in Washington Saturday, marine scientist Samantha Joye of the University of Georgia aired early results of her December submarine dives around the BP spill site. She went to places she had visited in the summer and expected the oil and residue from oil-munching microbes would be gone by then. It wasn't.
"There's some sort of a bottleneck we have yet to identify for why this stuff doesn't seem to be degrading," Joye told the American Association for the Advancement of Science annual conference in Washington. Her research and those of her colleagues contrasts with other studies that show a more optimistic outlook about the health of the gulf, saying microbes did great work munching the oil.
"Magic microbes consumed maybe 10 percent of the total discharge, the rest of it we don't know," Joye said, later adding: "there's a lot of it out there."
The head of the agency in charge of the health of the Gulf said Saturday that she thought that "most of the oil is gone." And a Department of Energy scientist, doing research with a grant from BP from before the spill, said his examination of oil plumes in the water column show that microbes have done a "fairly fast" job of eating the oil. Lawrence Berkeley National Lab scientist Terry Hazen said his research differs from Joye's because they looked at different places at different times.
Joye's research was more widespread, but has been slower in being published in scientific literature.
In five different expeditions, the last one in December, Joye and colleagues took 250 cores of the sea floor and travelled across 2,600 square miles. Some of the locations she had been studying before the oil spill on April 20 and said there was a noticeable change. Much of the oil she found on the sea floor — and in the water column — was chemically fingerprinted, proving it comes from the BP spill. Joye is still waiting for results to show other oil samples she tested are from BP's Macondo well.
She also showed pictures of oil-choked bottom-dwelling creatures. They included dead crabs and brittle stars — starfish like critters that are normally bright orange and tightly wrapped around coral. These brittle stars were pale, loose and dead. She also saw tube worms so full of oil they suffocated.
"This is Macondo oil on the bottom," Joye said as she showed slides. "This is dead organisms because of oil being deposited on their heads."
Joye said her research shows that the burning of oil left soot on the sea floor, which still had petroleum products. And even more troublesome was the tremendous amount of methane from the BP well that mixed into the Gulf and was mostly ignored by other researchers.
Joye and three colleagues last week published a study in Nature Geoscience that said the amount of gas injected into the Gulf was the equivalent of between 1.5 and 3 million barrels of oil.
"The gas is an important part of understanding what happened," said Ian MacDonald of Florida State University.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration chief Jane Lubchenco told reporters Saturday that "it's not a contradiction to say that although most of the oil is gone, there still remains oil out there."
Earlier this month, Kenneth Feinberg, the government's oil compensation fund czar, said based on research he commissioned he figured the Gulf of Mexico would almost fully recover by 2012 — something Joye and Lubchenco said isn't right.
"I've been to the bottom. I've seen what it looks like with my own eyes. It's not going to be fine by 2012," Joye told The Associated Press. "You see what the bottom looks like, you have a different opinion."
NOAA chief Lubchenco said "even though the oil degraded relatively rapidly and is now mostly but not all gone, damage done to a variety of species may not become obvious for years to come."
Lubchenco Saturday also announced the start of a Gulf restoration planning process to get the Gulf back to the condition it was on Apr. 19, the day before the spill. That program would eventually be paid for BP and other parties deemed responsible for the spill. This would be separate from an already begun restoration program that would improve all aspects of the Gulf, not just the oil spill, but has not been funded by the government yet, she said.
The new program, which is part of the Natural Resources Damage Assessment program, is part of the oil spill litigation — or out-of-court settlement — in which the polluters pay for overall damage to the ecosystem and efforts to return it to normal. This is different than paying compensation to people and businesses directly damaged by the spill.
The process will begin with public meetings all over the region.
___
Online:
Joye's website (in new window): http://www.marsci.uga.edu/directory/mjoye.htm
NOAA's restoration site (in new window): http://www.gulfspillrestoration.noaa.gov
To top of blog usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Making gas from trash in the office parking lot
WALTHAM, Mass.--Two years after showing off a prototype, IST Energy is ready to ship out the first demo unit of its Green Energy Machine to Edwards Air Force Base in Southern California. The machine uses gasification, rather than combustion, to turn garbage into electricity and heat. The gas that it produces can be used in a slightly modified natural gas engine or a diesel generator with some diesel to make electricity. The gas is fed into a boiler to make heat, and heat from the machine can also be captured and used to heat a building.
See related article: Air Force base to gasify waste for energy.
Photo by Martin LaMonica/CNET
Read more (in new window) at: http://news.cnet.com/2300-11128_3-10006438.html?part=rss&subj=news&tag=2547-1_3-0-20#ixzz1DBNWu5sJ
Link to article (in new window):
http://news.cnet.com/2300-11128_3-10006438.html?tag=mncol
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Friday, February 4, 2011
Study Sees Obstacles to Reach 1 Million Electric Cars
04 Feb 2011 HEADLINE
SYNOPSIS: Besides assumed lack of consumer demand, carmakers simply don't have capacity to reach goal, Indiana University study finds.
Source: CNN Money
Class: SYNDICATED NEWS Study Sees Obstacles to Reaching 1 Million Electric Car Goal in USA
President Barack Obama's goal of putting 1 million electric cars on U.S. roads by 2015 could run into a huge roadblock -- the American consumer.
According to a report released Wednesday by researchers at Indiana University, automakers are unlikely to manufacture enough cars to reach the president's goal because of a potential lack of buyer demand.
Read more (in new window at: http://evworld.com/news.cfm?newsid=25137
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SYNOPSIS: Besides assumed lack of consumer demand, carmakers simply don't have capacity to reach goal, Indiana University study finds.
Source: CNN Money
Class: SYNDICATED NEWS Study Sees Obstacles to Reaching 1 Million Electric Car Goal in USA
President Barack Obama's goal of putting 1 million electric cars on U.S. roads by 2015 could run into a huge roadblock -- the American consumer.
According to a report released Wednesday by researchers at Indiana University, automakers are unlikely to manufacture enough cars to reach the president's goal because of a potential lack of buyer demand.
Read more (in new window at: http://evworld.com/news.cfm?newsid=25137
To top of blog usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
T. Boone Pickens Says Less Dependence On Middle East Oil
T. Boone Pickens Says Less Dependence On Middle East Oil
Jill Burcum, Star Tribune
Feb. 03, 2011
The United States has put energy policy on the backburner during the Great Recession.
With unrest boiling over in Egypt, legendary financier and oil man T. Boone Pickens is pointing out just how shortsighted that it is.
Pickens offers a fresh and chilling take on the historic protests sweeping across the Arab world. He has long argued against U.S. dependence on Middle East oil.
In interviews this week, and on his Pickens Plan website, he is pointing out that instability in this region threatens the American oil supply.
“You’re seeing a dry run of sorts with unrest in countries like Tunisia and Egypt that are not big on the oil market,” Pickens said in an interview with Politico’s Darren Goode.
“And you better watch close because the next one may be Algeria or Libya or God forbid Saudi Arabia. And if that happens, you’re really going to have a mess on your hands.”
Saudi Arabia was America’s third largest source for imported crude oil in 2010, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Canada and Mexico were the top two.
Other countries rounding out the top 10 are Venezuela, Nigeria, Colombia, Algeria, Iraq, Angola and Ecuador.
Pickens has a financial stake in all this. He has made massive investments in wind energy, so his Pickens Plan for cutting imported oil needs is self-serving.
Read more (in new window) at: http:// www.startribune.com/opinion/commentary/115056534.html?elr=KArksi8cyaiUHK:uUiD3aPc:_Yyc:aUoD3aPc:_27EQU
To top of blog usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
Jill Burcum, Star Tribune
Feb. 03, 2011
The United States has put energy policy on the backburner during the Great Recession.
With unrest boiling over in Egypt, legendary financier and oil man T. Boone Pickens is pointing out just how shortsighted that it is.
Pickens offers a fresh and chilling take on the historic protests sweeping across the Arab world. He has long argued against U.S. dependence on Middle East oil.
In interviews this week, and on his Pickens Plan website, he is pointing out that instability in this region threatens the American oil supply.
“You’re seeing a dry run of sorts with unrest in countries like Tunisia and Egypt that are not big on the oil market,” Pickens said in an interview with Politico’s Darren Goode.
“And you better watch close because the next one may be Algeria or Libya or God forbid Saudi Arabia. And if that happens, you’re really going to have a mess on your hands.”
Saudi Arabia was America’s third largest source for imported crude oil in 2010, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Canada and Mexico were the top two.
Other countries rounding out the top 10 are Venezuela, Nigeria, Colombia, Algeria, Iraq, Angola and Ecuador.
Pickens has a financial stake in all this. He has made massive investments in wind energy, so his Pickens Plan for cutting imported oil needs is self-serving.
Read more (in new window) at: http:// www.startribune.com/opinion/commentary/115056534.html?elr=KArksi8cyaiUHK:uUiD3aPc:_Yyc:aUoD3aPc:_27EQU
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Sunday, January 23, 2011
Bloomberg Oil Prices January 23, 2011
Energy & Oil Prices
OIL ($/bbl) PRICE* CHANGE % CHANGE TIME
Nymex Crude Future 91.14 -.26 -.28 13:30
Dated Brent Spot 97.83 .57 .59 13:40
WTI Cushing Spot 91.23 -.17 -.19 12:21
OIL (cents/gal) PRICE* CHANGE % CHANGE TIME
Nymex Heating Oil Future 263.27 2.36 .90 13:29
Nymex RBOB Gasoline Future 247.72 3.13 1.28 13:29
NATURAL GAS ($/MMBtu) PRICE* CHANGE % CHANGE TIME
Nymex Henry Hub Future 4.47 .06 1.47 13:30
Henry Hub Spot 4.47 -.08 -1.76 01/13
New York City Gate Spot 10.45 -.78 -6.95 01/13
ELECTRICITY ($/megawatt hour) PRICE* CHANGE % CHANGE TIME
Mid-Columbia, firm on-peak, spot 29.33 -1.54 -4.99 01/13
Palo Verde, firm on-peak, spot 34.92 -.03 -.09 01/13
BLOOMBERG, FIRM ON-PEAK, DAY AHEAD SPOT/ERCOT 38.31 -4.94 -11.42 01/13 HOUSTON
*Commodity futures and energy prices are in U.S. dollars.
Unless indicated otherwise: intraday data is at least 15 minutes delayed; mutual fund NAVs are updated at the close of every market day; all prices are in the local currency; Time is ET.
Energy prices change everyday for current prices (in new window) at: www.bloomberg.com/energy
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OIL ($/bbl) PRICE* CHANGE % CHANGE TIME
Nymex Crude Future 91.14 -.26 -.28 13:30
Dated Brent Spot 97.83 .57 .59 13:40
WTI Cushing Spot 91.23 -.17 -.19 12:21
OIL (cents/gal) PRICE* CHANGE % CHANGE TIME
Nymex Heating Oil Future 263.27 2.36 .90 13:29
Nymex RBOB Gasoline Future 247.72 3.13 1.28 13:29
NATURAL GAS ($/MMBtu) PRICE* CHANGE % CHANGE TIME
Nymex Henry Hub Future 4.47 .06 1.47 13:30
Henry Hub Spot 4.47 -.08 -1.76 01/13
New York City Gate Spot 10.45 -.78 -6.95 01/13
ELECTRICITY ($/megawatt hour) PRICE* CHANGE % CHANGE TIME
Mid-Columbia, firm on-peak, spot 29.33 -1.54 -4.99 01/13
Palo Verde, firm on-peak, spot 34.92 -.03 -.09 01/13
BLOOMBERG, FIRM ON-PEAK, DAY AHEAD SPOT/ERCOT 38.31 -4.94 -11.42 01/13 HOUSTON
*Commodity futures and energy prices are in U.S. dollars.
Unless indicated otherwise: intraday data is at least 15 minutes delayed; mutual fund NAVs are updated at the close of every market day; all prices are in the local currency; Time is ET.
Energy prices change everyday for current prices (in new window) at: www.bloomberg.com/energy
Top of blog:
To top of blog usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
Monday, January 17, 2011
Wind power coalition head cites interest in Md
Wind Power Offshore Maryland's Coast Proposed
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) — The president of a coalition of wind developers is citing nine indications of interest from eight parties for projects off Maryland's coast as a positive sign that interest in wind power is growing.
Jim Lanard, president of the Offshore Wind Development Coalition, said Friday the response in Maryland demonstrates developers are approaching the interest needed for supply chain manufactureres to commit to building facilities to meet demand once proposed offshore wind farms receive federal and state approval.
Gov. Martin O'Malley plans to introduce legislation this year that would require utilities to enter into long-term contracts for offshore wind power.
Read more (in new window) at: http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2011/jan/14/wind-power-coalition-head-cites-interest-md/?utm_source=RSS_Feed&utm_medium=RSS
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ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) — The president of a coalition of wind developers is citing nine indications of interest from eight parties for projects off Maryland's coast as a positive sign that interest in wind power is growing.
Jim Lanard, president of the Offshore Wind Development Coalition, said Friday the response in Maryland demonstrates developers are approaching the interest needed for supply chain manufactureres to commit to building facilities to meet demand once proposed offshore wind farms receive federal and state approval.
Gov. Martin O'Malley plans to introduce legislation this year that would require utilities to enter into long-term contracts for offshore wind power.
Read more (in new window) at: http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2011/jan/14/wind-power-coalition-head-cites-interest-md/?utm_source=RSS_Feed&utm_medium=RSS
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Monday, January 10, 2011
Ford Focus Electric Car At CES 2011
Ford Unvails The Focus Electric Car
Has Shorter Battery Charge Time Than Other Electric Cars
Approx 3 to 4 hours From Full Discharge To Full Charge - WOW!
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Has Shorter Battery Charge Time Than Other Electric Cars
Approx 3 to 4 hours From Full Discharge To Full Charge - WOW!
To top of blog usaalternativeenergynow.blogspot.com
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Ford Focus At Consumer Electronic Show CES 2011
2013 Ford Focus Electric Debuts at CES
Just days before the Detroit Auto Show opens, Ford unveils its Leaf fighter, the EV Focus, at the CES show.
Electric vehicles are the hottest and smallest niche market at the moment, and the 2013 Ford Focus Electric intends to join the fray. Its features begin with an electric motor and extend all the way to your smartphone.
Electrification is part of a larger strategy for Ford, where engines are downsized with their turbocharged Ecoboost engines, mechanical systems are replaced with efficient electric ones, and vehicles are fitted with stop/start, hybrid, plug-in and battery electric systems. Ford is realistic with their goals for electrified vehicles, seeing the full array making up at most 25 percent of their entire volume by 2020. But every vision has to start somewhere.
With the Focus Electric, Ford is aiming at a global market for its first in-house–engineered EV, so it makes sense to base it on the Ford Focus C chassis. Motivation begins with a permanent-magnet electric traction motor delivering 123 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque and a single-speed transmission. The motor draws electricity from two liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery packs mounted under and behind the rear seats with a total of 24 kilowatt-hours of power. The combination tops out just above freeway speeds at 84 mph and should be peppy off the line owing to the torquey nature of electric motors.
It will have to overcome some significant weight gains though; due to those big batteries, the curb weight is up to a hefty 3691 pounds, around 760 pounds more than the standard five-door. Accordingly, spring and shock rates have been changed as well. Other changes to the Focus Electric aim at improving overall efficiency, including a new front end to improve aerodynamics, low-rolling resistance tires, LED tail lamps and lightweight wheels.
The official range has yet to be announced, but preliminary figures indicate frugal drivers should see around 100 miles before the car has to hit the charger. Speaking of charging, that's where things start to get interesting with the Focus Electric. Ford has partnered with Best Buy, whose Geek Squad will provide in-home installation of an optional Leviton-sourced 240-volt–outlet charger, which will be able to charge the batteries in just 3 hours, currently best in a rather nebulous and small class. Without that high-voltage charger, it's a painful 16 to 20 hours for a full charge. This makes the charge-station finder delivered to the navigation system through MapQuest a very important feature.
Ford has spent a lot of time developing and refining the charging process and vehicle management to make the Focus Electric experience not just convenient, but cost effective. As with other plug-ins and EVs, the basic functionality of the charging system aims to optimize charge times to take advantage of low utility rates during off-peak hours. Ford's system is integrated into the MyFord Touch center stack and can be accessed remotely from the Web or via a free iPhone and Android app called MyFord Mobile. The apps allow the driver to tell the car when it will be needed for the next trip and how far the next destination is, and remotely control startup features such as heating the cabin on plug-in power. These details are combined by the software and result in smartly managed charging to save the most money with minimal inconvenience to the driver.
The Focus Electric also works to address one of the biggest problems with EVs: range anxiety, the concern that the car won't be able to make it to a destination. Each key stores the driver's unique style of driving—what Ford terms as Zippy to Zen. The zippier the driver, the lower the total range will be. The car takes this into account when predicting how far it will go with its current state of charge. If you're on the edge of reaching a destination or charge station, the SmartGauge LCD screens flanking the speedometer will encourage smoother driving, maximized regenerative braking and lower speeds. Amusingly, the green leaves from the Fusion Hybrid's SmartGauge have been replaced with blue butterflies—an homage to the butterfly effect the driver might cause by piloting an electric vehicle.
The Focus Electric is still pretty far from production, with an intended sale date sometime in 2012, but it will be the flagship in Ford's push for vehicle electrification. What we see in this effort is a holistic approach to an electric car that will pay dividends as the number of charging stations increases and battery technology improves. For now, the electric car is still limited to a position as secondary, around-town city car, but as charging times continue to diminish, that problem will begin to disappear.
Read more (in new window) at Popular Mechanics website: www.popularmechanics.com/cars/alternative-fuel/electric/2013-ford-focus-electric-debuts-at-ces
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