A worker arranges the photovoltaic cell components of a solar module panel at a factory near Bangalore.
Ending months of speculation about exactly what it was planning to do to boost the use of renewable sources of energy, India said this week that it will spend about $900 million on solar energy.
The Indian cabinet approved a plan on Thursday that sets out to increase energy production from solar technology to 20 gigawatts by 2022, up from six megawatts today. The government will spend about 43 billion rupees ($922 million) in the first of three phases of the program. The total cost for all three phases could approach $20 billion.
The government had signaled its intention to invest more heavily in solar technology earlier this year, but had been reluctant to share details. Its latest announcement comes less than three weeks before world leaders are set to meet at Copenhagen to discuss climate change.
Though Indian policy makers have softened their tone on the meeting, they are adamant that they will not agree to any mandated reductions in emissions and have said any targets should be calculated on a per capita basis, something that the United States and other Western powers have resisted.
While India’s stated target for solar power appears ambitious — the United States had nine gigawatts of solar energy capacity at the end of last year — there is significant skepticism about whether the country can meet that target.
India has been very slow to add conventional electricity generating capacity. Government officials estimate that they will fall 20 percent short of their target for new power capacity for the five years that end in 2012. Many Indians have only intermittent power and most industrial users build their own captive power plants to ensure that they have a continuous supply of electricity.
Another big challenge will be reducing the cost of solar power to make it relatively competitive with coal, which is India’s main fuel for power plants. In India, power produced by solar cells costs about 2 and a half times as much as power from coal. The Indian government will likely have to subsidize makers of solar equipment for some time if it wants to achieve its target. The country already subsidies fuels like diesel, kerosene and petroleum for drivers and household use.
Friday, November 20, 2009
Solar Air Heating
Solar air heaters are products which use the direct sun light to generate heat for the home, cottage or any type of building.
As they generate heat, the only form of energy they consume is a minor amount of electricity to run the internal fan to take the cool air from inside the home, push it out to the solar air heater on the south facing wall or roof, cause it to be heated within the solar air heater and then push it back now heated into the home.
And, some of these products use a small solar panel to run the internal fan.
We had many, many visitors to our site, DailyHomeRenoTips.com, throughout the publishing of this series of articles last fall.
So, we thought we would provide on one page all of the links to all of the articles. Since autumn is upon us, now is the time to be planning and ordering such units if you are hoping to have it installed before the snow comes.
And, if you have used a commercially available solar air heater, we would like to hear from your on your experiences, so do drop us a line to Dan@DailyHomeRenoTips.com.
Remember, I am not a professional contractor; I am merely an average home owner writing about our home renovation, maintenance and energy & clean water conservation experiences to help others. Do your own research and analysis as you would before you spend any money on your home.
As they generate heat, the only form of energy they consume is a minor amount of electricity to run the internal fan to take the cool air from inside the home, push it out to the solar air heater on the south facing wall or roof, cause it to be heated within the solar air heater and then push it back now heated into the home.
And, some of these products use a small solar panel to run the internal fan.
We had many, many visitors to our site, DailyHomeRenoTips.com, throughout the publishing of this series of articles last fall.
So, we thought we would provide on one page all of the links to all of the articles. Since autumn is upon us, now is the time to be planning and ordering such units if you are hoping to have it installed before the snow comes.
And, if you have used a commercially available solar air heater, we would like to hear from your on your experiences, so do drop us a line to Dan@DailyHomeRenoTips.com.
Remember, I am not a professional contractor; I am merely an average home owner writing about our home renovation, maintenance and energy & clean water conservation experiences to help others. Do your own research and analysis as you would before you spend any money on your home.
Dye-Sensitized Solar to Go
The first commercial product to incorporate dye-sensitized thin-film solar cells will soon be on the market. Backpacks coated with the cheap, lightweight, and flexible solar cell, for on-the-go recharging of portable gadgets, were unveiled at the Hong Kong Electronics Fair last week.
The solar cells, made by Cardiff, U.K.-based G24 Innovations, are based on technology invented by Michael Grätzel, a chemistry professor at the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne in Switzerland.
In this type of solar cell, dye-coated semiconductor nanocrystals are sandwiched between glass panels or embedded in plastic along with an electrolyte. The dye absorbs light and creates electrons, which are transferred to the semiconductor and then out into a circuit. Dye-sensitized cells have lower light-to-electricity conversion efficiencies than the best thin-film solar cells, but they are considerably cheaper to manufacture and can also be printed on flexible surfaces.
Grätzel says that dye-sensitized solar cells have further practical advantages over other thin-film solar technologies. Amorphous silicon thin-film cells degrade in sunlight over time, and their efficiency also goes down if sunlight hits them at an angle. Dye-based cells work well at wide angles and are longer lasting. Plus, they work more efficiently in indoor light, because the dye absorbs diffuse sunlight and fluorescent lighting well.
G24 Innovations says that it uses a low-cost, roll-to-roll process to make its flexible solar modules, which produce 0.5 watts of power under direct sunlight. Last week, the company shipped its first solar-module shipment to Hong Kong-based company Mascotte Industrial Associates, which makes the new bags. G24 uses ruthenium dyes coated on titanium dioxide nanocrystals and an iodide-containing nonvolatile electrolyte. The company's cells are over 12 percent efficient at converting light into electricity.
G24 plans to market modules that could be patched on clothing, tents, and awnings. The modules could also be cheaply incorporated into power-generating windows and billboards. "It's definitely a great moment for us," Grätzel says. "There has been talk of when the first commercial product will be coming out, and this has happened now."
Only one other company, Dyesol, is close to making commercial dye-sensitized solar-cell products. In October 2008, Dyesol opened a factory in Queanbeyan, Australia, to make tiles that can be integrated into building facades. Electronics giant Sony is also conducting research on dye-sensitized solar cells and announced last year that it had reached efficiencies of 10 percent--a level necessary for commercial products. The electronics maker showcased conceptual lamps based on these cells, but it doesn't have commercial products in the pipeline yet.
The solar cells may have a small niche in the market right now. But, says Michael McGehee, materials science and engineering professor at Stanford University, "in the future we may see this technology compete with the more traditional thin-film solar technologies based on amorphous silicon, cadmium telluride, and cadmium indium gallium arsenide if the combination of efficiency, cost, and durability improves."
"It's an exciting time for dye-sensitized solar cells," Grätzel says, adding that he expects to see many more products on the market soon.
The solar cells, made by Cardiff, U.K.-based G24 Innovations, are based on technology invented by Michael Grätzel, a chemistry professor at the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne in Switzerland.
In this type of solar cell, dye-coated semiconductor nanocrystals are sandwiched between glass panels or embedded in plastic along with an electrolyte. The dye absorbs light and creates electrons, which are transferred to the semiconductor and then out into a circuit. Dye-sensitized cells have lower light-to-electricity conversion efficiencies than the best thin-film solar cells, but they are considerably cheaper to manufacture and can also be printed on flexible surfaces.
Grätzel says that dye-sensitized solar cells have further practical advantages over other thin-film solar technologies. Amorphous silicon thin-film cells degrade in sunlight over time, and their efficiency also goes down if sunlight hits them at an angle. Dye-based cells work well at wide angles and are longer lasting. Plus, they work more efficiently in indoor light, because the dye absorbs diffuse sunlight and fluorescent lighting well.
G24 Innovations says that it uses a low-cost, roll-to-roll process to make its flexible solar modules, which produce 0.5 watts of power under direct sunlight. Last week, the company shipped its first solar-module shipment to Hong Kong-based company Mascotte Industrial Associates, which makes the new bags. G24 uses ruthenium dyes coated on titanium dioxide nanocrystals and an iodide-containing nonvolatile electrolyte. The company's cells are over 12 percent efficient at converting light into electricity.
G24 plans to market modules that could be patched on clothing, tents, and awnings. The modules could also be cheaply incorporated into power-generating windows and billboards. "It's definitely a great moment for us," Grätzel says. "There has been talk of when the first commercial product will be coming out, and this has happened now."
Only one other company, Dyesol, is close to making commercial dye-sensitized solar-cell products. In October 2008, Dyesol opened a factory in Queanbeyan, Australia, to make tiles that can be integrated into building facades. Electronics giant Sony is also conducting research on dye-sensitized solar cells and announced last year that it had reached efficiencies of 10 percent--a level necessary for commercial products. The electronics maker showcased conceptual lamps based on these cells, but it doesn't have commercial products in the pipeline yet.
The solar cells may have a small niche in the market right now. But, says Michael McGehee, materials science and engineering professor at Stanford University, "in the future we may see this technology compete with the more traditional thin-film solar technologies based on amorphous silicon, cadmium telluride, and cadmium indium gallium arsenide if the combination of efficiency, cost, and durability improves."
"It's an exciting time for dye-sensitized solar cells," Grätzel says, adding that he expects to see many more products on the market soon.
Pre-build Solar Water Systems
Solar water systems for free hot water: an lucrative choice to expensive specialized suppliers
Building your own DIY hot water solar installation is a wonderful job. But you probably won´t each day have the time to start-up a new Homemade project or now and again you just want to skip the hard parts.
When you get a ´pre-build´ hot water solar kit, all parts are made ´ready for installation´. A really detailed manual that comes with the Solar water systems can help you link the solar system to your existing hot water boiler. And this will be far less time consuming than building the installation wholly by yourself from the beginning. I selected two pre-build Hot solar water kits. The one that is best for you largely depends on whether you live in an area where temperatures go below freezing often, or in an area where it hardly ever freezes.
Designed for cool temperatures: The cold Climate Solar hot water kits
If your area is prone to freezing, then a cold climate “closed loop” installation is asked for. In these Solar water systems, a specific non-toxic, freeze-resistant fluid is used, in the place of water, to transport the warmth. This method protects your system from burst pipes during winter or cold nights and provides greater durability and trouble-free process. A closed-loop system is as well recommended in places where the water is hard, because it prevents scaling in the tubes. It´s on the market in a flush or rack mount.
Benefits cool Climate Solar water systems
• “Plug & Play” system
• Has all parts included (excluding piping & storage boiler)
• Can frequently be connected to existing hot water tank
• Wholly protected from too much heat and freezing
The big benefit of the cool Climate Solar hot water kits is it´s effective process. As soon as there is plenty heat to be drawn from the collectors, the controller automatically sets of the pumps. Heated solar fluid is then flowing from the collectors, through the heat exchanger, where its heat is transferred to water in the storage boiler. The solar fluid is then pumped back to the collectors to once more be heated. This circulation loop can go on as long as there is warmth to be drawn from the collectors. In periods when there is little or no sun, a backup heating system can be started to offer adequate hot water.
For warm climates: Warm Climate Solar hot water kits
Warm Climate Solar hot water kits will be an outstanding pick for areas where freezing is not a important worry. In this open loop system, water circulates directly from the solar collector to the reservoir where the water is stored. The simplicity of the Warm Climate system makes it quite inexpensive (in comparison to specialized solar hot water suppliers), however you slash these costs when done entirely Homemade!
Advantages Warm Climate Solar hot water kits
• It´s simple system and Incredibly few components
• will often be mounted to existing water boiler
• Economical solution
• Mild freeze-protection included to a low of 40° F
The huge advantage of Warm Climate Solar water systems is their efficient process. When there is adequate warmth to be drawn from the collectors, the controller automatically turns on a pump, which will pull cold water from the storage tank through the collectors to be heated. Once heated, the water is pumped back down into the storage solar boiler for usage. This process can carry on as long as there is heat to be drawn from the collectors. During times when there is little or no sun, the backup heating panels is going to be turned on to supply sufficient warm water.
. If you wish to decrease costs the bare minimum and decide to go for a Homemade task, get yourself a Homemade solar hot water guide.
Building your own DIY hot water solar installation is a wonderful job. But you probably won´t each day have the time to start-up a new Homemade project or now and again you just want to skip the hard parts.
When you get a ´pre-build´ hot water solar kit, all parts are made ´ready for installation´. A really detailed manual that comes with the Solar water systems can help you link the solar system to your existing hot water boiler. And this will be far less time consuming than building the installation wholly by yourself from the beginning. I selected two pre-build Hot solar water kits. The one that is best for you largely depends on whether you live in an area where temperatures go below freezing often, or in an area where it hardly ever freezes.
Designed for cool temperatures: The cold Climate Solar hot water kits
If your area is prone to freezing, then a cold climate “closed loop” installation is asked for. In these Solar water systems, a specific non-toxic, freeze-resistant fluid is used, in the place of water, to transport the warmth. This method protects your system from burst pipes during winter or cold nights and provides greater durability and trouble-free process. A closed-loop system is as well recommended in places where the water is hard, because it prevents scaling in the tubes. It´s on the market in a flush or rack mount.
Benefits cool Climate Solar water systems
• “Plug & Play” system
• Has all parts included (excluding piping & storage boiler)
• Can frequently be connected to existing hot water tank
• Wholly protected from too much heat and freezing
The big benefit of the cool Climate Solar hot water kits is it´s effective process. As soon as there is plenty heat to be drawn from the collectors, the controller automatically sets of the pumps. Heated solar fluid is then flowing from the collectors, through the heat exchanger, where its heat is transferred to water in the storage boiler. The solar fluid is then pumped back to the collectors to once more be heated. This circulation loop can go on as long as there is warmth to be drawn from the collectors. In periods when there is little or no sun, a backup heating system can be started to offer adequate hot water.
For warm climates: Warm Climate Solar hot water kits
Warm Climate Solar hot water kits will be an outstanding pick for areas where freezing is not a important worry. In this open loop system, water circulates directly from the solar collector to the reservoir where the water is stored. The simplicity of the Warm Climate system makes it quite inexpensive (in comparison to specialized solar hot water suppliers), however you slash these costs when done entirely Homemade!
Advantages Warm Climate Solar hot water kits
• It´s simple system and Incredibly few components
• will often be mounted to existing water boiler
• Economical solution
• Mild freeze-protection included to a low of 40° F
The huge advantage of Warm Climate Solar water systems is their efficient process. When there is adequate warmth to be drawn from the collectors, the controller automatically turns on a pump, which will pull cold water from the storage tank through the collectors to be heated. Once heated, the water is pumped back down into the storage solar boiler for usage. This process can carry on as long as there is heat to be drawn from the collectors. During times when there is little or no sun, the backup heating panels is going to be turned on to supply sufficient warm water.
. If you wish to decrease costs the bare minimum and decide to go for a Homemade task, get yourself a Homemade solar hot water guide.
Advantages for Residential Solar Power
As soon as you hear of solar electricity what is that which strikes you first? It is the sun. So, solar electricity is electricity that comes from the power of the sun. We all know that first off there is a huge crisis of non-renewable energy sources.
As a result of that, more and more persons are changing for alternative sources of energy which will help run the world just the same. Residential Solar Power has emerged as the most important of all alternative energy sources that mankind has thought about and so the big hype in opting for solar electricity over conventional forms of electricity.
Solar electricity has become incredibly popular because it offers a wide range of good options and benefits to the people who use it. It is true that solar electricity may not be much effective in running buses or cars but when you concentrate on domestic use, residential solar power is the most beneficial. You can benefit for its efficiency for many resons, one is the cost factor.
True that the initial investment in the system is slightly expensive but considering the fact that it can run smoothly and with minimum maintenance for more than thirty years at a stretch, the cost is nothing. Besides, the set up will pay for itself in about five year’s time. I mention this because in any average home the total cumulative of monthly energy bills for five years is more than the cost of the solar power system, if it was installed by a third party company, but if you installed your own residential solar power system the cost will be far less.
It is also a hundred percent environment friendly resort. This means that residential solar power actually helps you keep your planet green for a longer period of time by not adding to all the decomposition that is happening all around. Moreover, it is a source of energy which will work even when the electric lines are down. Say, during a storm trees are extracted and all the electric cables get torn away.
At such a time, people using electricity from the state board for electricity will suffer and have no power in their homes. Nonetheless, you who are using residential solar power, will have light in your home because you are not joined to these cables. So, practically, solar power has more practicality than the state electricity board.
Also, as I said earlier, you can build your own residential solar power provider and reduce the expenditure behind your solar panels effectively. You can then use this system to heat water, do your laundry, dry your clothes, cook food, light your entire house as well as run your choice channels in the television.
Now, isn’t that fantastic? So get rid of your electricity agreement and go for Residential Solar Power today!.
As a result of that, more and more persons are changing for alternative sources of energy which will help run the world just the same. Residential Solar Power has emerged as the most important of all alternative energy sources that mankind has thought about and so the big hype in opting for solar electricity over conventional forms of electricity.
Solar electricity has become incredibly popular because it offers a wide range of good options and benefits to the people who use it. It is true that solar electricity may not be much effective in running buses or cars but when you concentrate on domestic use, residential solar power is the most beneficial. You can benefit for its efficiency for many resons, one is the cost factor.
True that the initial investment in the system is slightly expensive but considering the fact that it can run smoothly and with minimum maintenance for more than thirty years at a stretch, the cost is nothing. Besides, the set up will pay for itself in about five year’s time. I mention this because in any average home the total cumulative of monthly energy bills for five years is more than the cost of the solar power system, if it was installed by a third party company, but if you installed your own residential solar power system the cost will be far less.
It is also a hundred percent environment friendly resort. This means that residential solar power actually helps you keep your planet green for a longer period of time by not adding to all the decomposition that is happening all around. Moreover, it is a source of energy which will work even when the electric lines are down. Say, during a storm trees are extracted and all the electric cables get torn away.
At such a time, people using electricity from the state board for electricity will suffer and have no power in their homes. Nonetheless, you who are using residential solar power, will have light in your home because you are not joined to these cables. So, practically, solar power has more practicality than the state electricity board.
Also, as I said earlier, you can build your own residential solar power provider and reduce the expenditure behind your solar panels effectively. You can then use this system to heat water, do your laundry, dry your clothes, cook food, light your entire house as well as run your choice channels in the television.
Now, isn’t that fantastic? So get rid of your electricity agreement and go for Residential Solar Power today!.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Photovoltaic cells to create a base contrarian
In recent days, is located in Zhejiang Province town of Henderson Nanxun practice Photovoltaic Power Technology Co., Ltd. is engaged in the production plan of a new order, this order is from Germany, 550 kilowatts solar photovoltaic power plant design, production and installation. “6 months, we have received two large orders for photovoltaic power generation, production tasks are extremely nervous.” SHI Quan, deputy general manager, said soldiers.
It is understood that the company’s resilient this year, while the financial crisis, not only sell very well, right now is to start two solar photovoltaic project, the province is expected to build the biggest photovoltaic cell production base.
Put into operation in October of last year, a total investment of 185 million PV Henderson, covering 200 acres, an annual output of 100 megawatts of solar photovoltaic cells, and its products are mainly exported to Europe, America, South Africa, the Middle East and other regions. Dust temperature in the company’s automated production line plant, raw materials, through the rigorous process of production and post-test and turned into a solar cell. “These solar cells are used in photovoltaic power generation.” Technical personnel Introduction. In the company’s sample room to see the roof containing four photovoltaic solar cells, after conversion of light energy into electrical energy can be used for lighting, television and other electrical equipment.
“The new energy industry is the world’s emerging industries, companies have their own industrial base, choose to invest in new energy industry is the result of market research before making a decision.” Chairman Xu Jianrong said that this year the national and provincial relevant policies, support the new energy industry, promote the use of new energy products, which will be a photovoltaic Henderson a good opportunity for development.
Henderson emphasis on technology is an important reason for the rapid development of PV. According to reports, Henderson before the start of photovoltaic project, the company that introduced the U.S. Semiconductor Technology Center in solar cell technology, and on this basis re-innovation on the digestion and absorption. Company to introduce a number of international and domestic new energy field of the top talent, formed a 21-member R & D team. With the U.S. Semiconductor Technology Center, the United States Fubon High-Tech Co., Ltd., Chinese Academy of Sciences, Fudan University and other research institutions to establish a technical cooperation platform. More recently, Henderson photovoltaic and from the introduction of four talented people from overseas, focusing on solar energy research and development of core materials.
Attach importance to technical innovation and research and development to make products more competitive, Henderson PV. SHI Quan-Bing said that in 2007 the company’s net installed capacity of solar photovoltaic cells, and at a cost of 65-80 yuan / W, is now down more than half the cost of only 30-35 yuan / watt.
It is understood that the company’s resilient this year, while the financial crisis, not only sell very well, right now is to start two solar photovoltaic project, the province is expected to build the biggest photovoltaic cell production base.
Put into operation in October of last year, a total investment of 185 million PV Henderson, covering 200 acres, an annual output of 100 megawatts of solar photovoltaic cells, and its products are mainly exported to Europe, America, South Africa, the Middle East and other regions. Dust temperature in the company’s automated production line plant, raw materials, through the rigorous process of production and post-test and turned into a solar cell. “These solar cells are used in photovoltaic power generation.” Technical personnel Introduction. In the company’s sample room to see the roof containing four photovoltaic solar cells, after conversion of light energy into electrical energy can be used for lighting, television and other electrical equipment.
“The new energy industry is the world’s emerging industries, companies have their own industrial base, choose to invest in new energy industry is the result of market research before making a decision.” Chairman Xu Jianrong said that this year the national and provincial relevant policies, support the new energy industry, promote the use of new energy products, which will be a photovoltaic Henderson a good opportunity for development.
Henderson emphasis on technology is an important reason for the rapid development of PV. According to reports, Henderson before the start of photovoltaic project, the company that introduced the U.S. Semiconductor Technology Center in solar cell technology, and on this basis re-innovation on the digestion and absorption. Company to introduce a number of international and domestic new energy field of the top talent, formed a 21-member R & D team. With the U.S. Semiconductor Technology Center, the United States Fubon High-Tech Co., Ltd., Chinese Academy of Sciences, Fudan University and other research institutions to establish a technical cooperation platform. More recently, Henderson photovoltaic and from the introduction of four talented people from overseas, focusing on solar energy research and development of core materials.
Attach importance to technical innovation and research and development to make products more competitive, Henderson PV. SHI Quan-Bing said that in 2007 the company’s net installed capacity of solar photovoltaic cells, and at a cost of 65-80 yuan / W, is now down more than half the cost of only 30-35 yuan / watt.
A Simple Homemade Solar Air Heater
A Simple Homemade Solar Air Heater - Build Cheap DIY Solar Powered Air Conditioning Heaters
The use of solar energy from the sun is one of the ways where depletion of resources (especially that of consumable energy generators such as oil and coal) is lessened and conservation of energy is maximized. Knowing on how to build a simple and cheap diy homemade solar powered air conditioning heater to heat up a room or a house is one example of the application of solar energy for household use.
The basic principle in making a solar air heater lies in the behavior and movements of air, metals and colors. Inside the main body of the solar air heaters are pipes or tubings coated in black paint (using black paint enhances the ability of the pipes to absorb heat). These pipes are also made up of metals which have abilities to attract and absorb heat (some environmentalists use aluminum cans because this metal has a high thermal conductivity and at the same time by doing so recycling is done lessening the garbage and effect to land contamination).
Solar air heaters are usually situated in a vertical position where its body or at least a large portion of the whole apparatus is exposed to the sun’s rays. As cool air enters the bottom portion of the tank, it passes through the black-coated pipes and it is in this process that transfer of heat from the pipes to the transient air happens (convection). The laws of heat transfer states that heat moves from the hotter body to a cooler one, following this law, the pipes which in this situation is the hotter object gives off its heat into the cooler body, the moving air.
Basic theories of science also states that one of the properties of air is that cooler air moves down and hotter air goes up. This is partly one of the hidden reasons why solar air heaters are suggested to be built vertically rather than horizontally, because without using any other equipments or devices cool air enters the bottom of the heater then as the temperature goes up due to the transfer of heat this air goes up into air vents or tubes which is connected to the room or house where increase in temperature is desired. No more compressor or pump is necessary for such movement.
The longer the pipings and tubings are and the more tubes the air passes through the higher the increase of temperature from the final output to the initial input are achieved. Designs such as loops and the “snake” piping configuration are sometimes suggested by literature for use as it requires slower rising of air to the outlet and having more heat transfer processes as it passes through. However by using these complex patterns it must also be taken into consideration that this also has a negative side because if insulation of heat is quite poor the longer the pipings are the more chances the initial heat acquired by the air is instead given off to the surroundings. Now you have a better idea on how to build a simple and cheap diy homemade solar powered air conditioning heater.
The use of solar energy from the sun is one of the ways where depletion of resources (especially that of consumable energy generators such as oil and coal) is lessened and conservation of energy is maximized. Knowing on how to build a simple and cheap diy homemade solar powered air conditioning heater to heat up a room or a house is one example of the application of solar energy for household use.
The basic principle in making a solar air heater lies in the behavior and movements of air, metals and colors. Inside the main body of the solar air heaters are pipes or tubings coated in black paint (using black paint enhances the ability of the pipes to absorb heat). These pipes are also made up of metals which have abilities to attract and absorb heat (some environmentalists use aluminum cans because this metal has a high thermal conductivity and at the same time by doing so recycling is done lessening the garbage and effect to land contamination).
Solar air heaters are usually situated in a vertical position where its body or at least a large portion of the whole apparatus is exposed to the sun’s rays. As cool air enters the bottom portion of the tank, it passes through the black-coated pipes and it is in this process that transfer of heat from the pipes to the transient air happens (convection). The laws of heat transfer states that heat moves from the hotter body to a cooler one, following this law, the pipes which in this situation is the hotter object gives off its heat into the cooler body, the moving air.
Basic theories of science also states that one of the properties of air is that cooler air moves down and hotter air goes up. This is partly one of the hidden reasons why solar air heaters are suggested to be built vertically rather than horizontally, because without using any other equipments or devices cool air enters the bottom of the heater then as the temperature goes up due to the transfer of heat this air goes up into air vents or tubes which is connected to the room or house where increase in temperature is desired. No more compressor or pump is necessary for such movement.
The longer the pipings and tubings are and the more tubes the air passes through the higher the increase of temperature from the final output to the initial input are achieved. Designs such as loops and the “snake” piping configuration are sometimes suggested by literature for use as it requires slower rising of air to the outlet and having more heat transfer processes as it passes through. However by using these complex patterns it must also be taken into consideration that this also has a negative side because if insulation of heat is quite poor the longer the pipings are the more chances the initial heat acquired by the air is instead given off to the surroundings. Now you have a better idea on how to build a simple and cheap diy homemade solar powered air conditioning heater.
Sharp Develops a Solar Cell with the World’s Highest Conversion Efficiency of 35.8%.
Sharp Corporation has achieved the world’s highest solar cell conversion efficiency of 35.8% using a triple-junction compound solar cell.
Unlike silicon-based solar cells, the most common type of solar cell in use today, the compound solar cell utilizes photo-absorption layers made from compounds consisting of two or more elements such as indium and gallium. Due to their high conversion efficiency, compound solar cells are used mainly on space satellites. Since 2000, Sharp has been advancing research and development on a triple-junction compound solar cell that achieves high conversion efficiency by stacking three photo-absorption layers.
To boost the efficiency of triple-junction compound solar cells, it is important to improve the crystallinity (the regularity of the atomic arrangement) in each photo-absorption layer (the top, middle, and bottom layer). It is also crucial that the solar cell be composed of materials that can maximize the effective use of solar energy.
Unlike silicon-based solar cells, the most common type of solar cell in use today, the compound solar cell utilizes photo-absorption layers made from compounds consisting of two or more elements such as indium and gallium. Due to their high conversion efficiency, compound solar cells are used mainly on space satellites. Since 2000, Sharp has been advancing research and development on a triple-junction compound solar cell that achieves high conversion efficiency by stacking three photo-absorption layers.
To boost the efficiency of triple-junction compound solar cells, it is important to improve the crystallinity (the regularity of the atomic arrangement) in each photo-absorption layer (the top, middle, and bottom layer). It is also crucial that the solar cell be composed of materials that can maximize the effective use of solar energy.
Reprapable Solar Power
We've discussed reprapping solar panels for a long time, and - of course - our semi-conductor printing capability isn't quite up to that yet.
But it should be possible to reprap a small-scale solar array like a miniature version of the industrial one at Daggett above.
It would use reprapable solar-powered steerable mirrors. Those would be an autonomous motorized gimbal mirror support with a tracker that keeps the sun's reflection pointing the same way at all times (onto a solar boiler, say). The idea is you'd reprap out a load of these, then walk round a field putting them down. They'd all align themselves and start delivering solar power...
I think the trick is to black out a corner of the mirror except for a small circular spot in the middle of the black. Each steerable mirror has a detector on a flexible arm that you place where you want the reflection of that spot to be. Feedback keeps the spot-reflection on station, and hence the main mirror also on station. A really clever design would combine the spot detector with the local solar cell that provides the motor and controller power.
But it should be possible to reprap a small-scale solar array like a miniature version of the industrial one at Daggett above.
It would use reprapable solar-powered steerable mirrors. Those would be an autonomous motorized gimbal mirror support with a tracker that keeps the sun's reflection pointing the same way at all times (onto a solar boiler, say). The idea is you'd reprap out a load of these, then walk round a field putting them down. They'd all align themselves and start delivering solar power...
I think the trick is to black out a corner of the mirror except for a small circular spot in the middle of the black. Each steerable mirror has a detector on a flexible arm that you place where you want the reflection of that spot to be. Feedback keeps the spot-reflection on station, and hence the main mirror also on station. A really clever design would combine the spot detector with the local solar cell that provides the motor and controller power.
Solar Energy Is Here To Stay
Solar Power Inc (OTC:SOPW) traded upwards 16.53% to close at $1.41 on news the company will team up with Aerojet to add an additional 2.4 megawatts to the photovoltaic solar power system currently installed at Aerojet’s Sacramento, California site. The system will be expanded to six megawatts and become the largest single-site industrial solar energy location in California and one of the largest in the country. California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signed an executive order on September 15th requiring that 33% of energy consumed in California come from renewable resources by the year 2020. Governor Schwarzenegger was quoted as saying, “The addition of this large-scale solar project is further evidence that reliable, renewable and pollution-free technology is here to stay.” Headquartered in Roseville, California, Solar Power Inc is a technology company which manufactures, installs, integrates, and sells photovoltaic panels or modules and solar systems which convert solar energy into electricity, primarily for consumers in the US.
Semiconductor Manufacturing Int’l (ADR) (NYSE:SMI) climbed 60.33% to close at $3.88 on news the company has settled all pending lawsuits with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. Terms of the settlement includes payment to Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company of an aggregate of US$200 million payable upon instalments over the next four years. The settlement also grants Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company 1,789,493,218 shares of SMI (representing roughly 8% of SMI’s issued share capital) and a warrant to purchase 695,914,030 additional shares of SMI, which would allow Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company to obtain approximately 10% of SMI’s issued share capital. The terms include measures in the case of a breach of these conditions. Headquartered in Shanghai, China, Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation designs, manufactures, packages and tests microchips used in almost all electronic equipment. The company’s semiconductors are used in computers, mobile telephones, digital televisions, digital cameras, DVD players, and other entertainment devices; as well as in consumer electronics, and automotive and industrial applications.
Semiconductor Manufacturing Int’l (ADR) (NYSE:SMI) climbed 60.33% to close at $3.88 on news the company has settled all pending lawsuits with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. Terms of the settlement includes payment to Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company of an aggregate of US$200 million payable upon instalments over the next four years. The settlement also grants Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company 1,789,493,218 shares of SMI (representing roughly 8% of SMI’s issued share capital) and a warrant to purchase 695,914,030 additional shares of SMI, which would allow Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company to obtain approximately 10% of SMI’s issued share capital. The terms include measures in the case of a breach of these conditions. Headquartered in Shanghai, China, Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation designs, manufactures, packages and tests microchips used in almost all electronic equipment. The company’s semiconductors are used in computers, mobile telephones, digital televisions, digital cameras, DVD players, and other entertainment devices; as well as in consumer electronics, and automotive and industrial applications.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Thermosiphon Solar Air Heater with heat storage
This is a solar air heater that uses the sun's heat to pump air into the house. It also stores heat into a bed of rock. Even after the sun sets, the heat from the rocks will still cause the thermosiphon effect to continue to work. After the sun sets, an insulated cover should be placed over the solar collector. Cheap double pane tempered safety glass can be found for free or really cheap at a glass shop. Just ask for used sliding glass doors. If they have moisture between the layers then that is easily fixed. When the glass heats up in the sun, it will steam the moisture out. You can then re silicone the edges between the glass sheets. I can pick these doors up for $20 each from the local glass shop. They told me any glass sitting outside is there to be thrown out so I can have that stuff for free.
For the inside of the solar collector, just use corrugated sheet metal roofing. Just sandwich two pieces and screw together. This forms chanels and gives more surface area for heat transfer. Paint the side facing the sun with high temp flat black spray paint. They sell that paint for barbeques.
For the inside of the solar collector, just use corrugated sheet metal roofing. Just sandwich two pieces and screw together. This forms chanels and gives more surface area for heat transfer. Paint the side facing the sun with high temp flat black spray paint. They sell that paint for barbeques.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
County board tables wind turbine application
Otter Tail County Commissioners, while backing wind energy within county boundaries, on Tuesday agreed with a recommendation from the County Planning Commission to table a request to erect a wind tower near Marion Lake in Dead Lake Township, southeast of Dent and southwest of Perham.
The application, from Thomas and Georgette Wegscheid, calls for positioning the wind turbine with an 80-foot tower, for personal electric energy, approximately 680 feet from the lake. The applicants requested to have their application tabled to allow members of the planning commission to view a wind turbine — identical to the proposal by the Wegscheids — at Residential Wind Power, Inc., in New York Mills.
Planning commission members want to see the wind turbine site at New York Mills in order to become more familiar with its operations.
Commissioners, on Tuesday, said the five-person county board may want to establish guidelines about erection of wind towers within Otter Tail County. They pointed out that some wind towers, depending on size, present more environmental issues than others. They said that if guidelines were in place, it would make their jobs easier when applications from people such as the Wegscheids would be brought in, for their review.
County commissioners, on Tuesday, did approve five conditional use permit applications.
n The board approved a request to rebuild an older, existing road for farm use near Moenkedick and Ceynowa Lakes at Edna Township, west of Perham. The application came from Jon Saetre and DLM, LLC.
n The county board okayed a request from Dennis and Tammy Buchanan, with conditions, for a preliminary plat entitle Twins Acres. This consists of two non-residential lots near Rush Lakes and Buchanan Lake in Rush Lake Township, south of Perham.
n Commissioners approved placing 18-inch polyethylene pipe near Pelican Lake in Dunn Township, northeast of Pelican Rapids. The application came from Larson Lake Property Partnership. This project will not result in additional flow to Pelican Lake.
n A request from the Otter Tail County Highway Department to replace a deficient bridge along Highway 67 in Deer Creek Township received board approval. Approximately 300 feet of grading is associated with the project.
n The county board approved a conditional use permit application, with a condition, for a proposed new residence, detached garage and driveway at Otter Tail Lake, in Amor Township. The application came from Thomas Vertin.
The application, from Thomas and Georgette Wegscheid, calls for positioning the wind turbine with an 80-foot tower, for personal electric energy, approximately 680 feet from the lake. The applicants requested to have their application tabled to allow members of the planning commission to view a wind turbine — identical to the proposal by the Wegscheids — at Residential Wind Power, Inc., in New York Mills.
Planning commission members want to see the wind turbine site at New York Mills in order to become more familiar with its operations.
Commissioners, on Tuesday, said the five-person county board may want to establish guidelines about erection of wind towers within Otter Tail County. They pointed out that some wind towers, depending on size, present more environmental issues than others. They said that if guidelines were in place, it would make their jobs easier when applications from people such as the Wegscheids would be brought in, for their review.
County commissioners, on Tuesday, did approve five conditional use permit applications.
n The board approved a request to rebuild an older, existing road for farm use near Moenkedick and Ceynowa Lakes at Edna Township, west of Perham. The application came from Jon Saetre and DLM, LLC.
n The county board okayed a request from Dennis and Tammy Buchanan, with conditions, for a preliminary plat entitle Twins Acres. This consists of two non-residential lots near Rush Lakes and Buchanan Lake in Rush Lake Township, south of Perham.
n Commissioners approved placing 18-inch polyethylene pipe near Pelican Lake in Dunn Township, northeast of Pelican Rapids. The application came from Larson Lake Property Partnership. This project will not result in additional flow to Pelican Lake.
n A request from the Otter Tail County Highway Department to replace a deficient bridge along Highway 67 in Deer Creek Township received board approval. Approximately 300 feet of grading is associated with the project.
n The county board approved a conditional use permit application, with a condition, for a proposed new residence, detached garage and driveway at Otter Tail Lake, in Amor Township. The application came from Thomas Vertin.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Flexible Solar Cell Technology
Canadian research engineers at McMaster University in Ontario recently uncovered the secrets to flexible solar cell technology, where it is able to generate enough juice to light bus shelters in addition to sending Internet-based updates of transport schedules - perfect for those who tend to live by the clock and get all anxious whenever schedules don't run on time.
These flexible solar strips measure 90cm x 12cm each and are able to hold 720 one-centimeter square solar cells that generate up to 4.5 watts of juice under optimal conditions. The solar strip will be connected to each end of a bus shelter, where in turn is hooked up to a multi-LED, battery-operated light fixture.
Don't worry about these fixtures sipping too much juice - they are energy-efficient lighting units that take a mere 600 milliwatts of power, while offering the equivalent of a small nightlight at night.
These flexible solar strips measure 90cm x 12cm each and are able to hold 720 one-centimeter square solar cells that generate up to 4.5 watts of juice under optimal conditions. The solar strip will be connected to each end of a bus shelter, where in turn is hooked up to a multi-LED, battery-operated light fixture.
Don't worry about these fixtures sipping too much juice - they are energy-efficient lighting units that take a mere 600 milliwatts of power, while offering the equivalent of a small nightlight at night.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Small wind turbines for the city
Before you say it, I know, wind turbines aren't something tenants can put up. But today, The Globe & Mail ran a story of mine about a new generation of small wind turbines that are much better suited to urban applications. And since the first comment to appear asked about links, I figured that Green Tenant could provide them.
What makes these turbines special is that they don't spin at super-high speeds. Older small turbines had been a bit of a safety hazard because of their speeds. Many of them don't require tall towers. Some spin horizontally to reduce wear. Others actually make use of the updraft from a roof. And they're all designed with gusty city winds in mind.
The turbine that inspired the story is the Wind Dancer. It's an award-winning Toronto creation from Wind Simplicity (www.windsimplicity.ca).
There's a nifty rooftop model from WindTerra (www.windterra.com).
Also mentioned is the Skystream 3.7 (www.skystreamenergy.com).
If you're in a high-rise apartment and have a landlord with a sympathetic ear, you might want to mention that the first Wind Dancers sold were to real estate mogul Shane Baghai. They're on top of one of his condo developments. Maybe this is a way for your building's management to cut down of the cost of electricity in communal spaces, such as hallways and lobbies? Can't hurt to mention it.
What makes these turbines special is that they don't spin at super-high speeds. Older small turbines had been a bit of a safety hazard because of their speeds. Many of them don't require tall towers. Some spin horizontally to reduce wear. Others actually make use of the updraft from a roof. And they're all designed with gusty city winds in mind.
The turbine that inspired the story is the Wind Dancer. It's an award-winning Toronto creation from Wind Simplicity (www.windsimplicity.ca).
There's a nifty rooftop model from WindTerra (www.windterra.com).
Also mentioned is the Skystream 3.7 (www.skystreamenergy.com).
If you're in a high-rise apartment and have a landlord with a sympathetic ear, you might want to mention that the first Wind Dancers sold were to real estate mogul Shane Baghai. They're on top of one of his condo developments. Maybe this is a way for your building's management to cut down of the cost of electricity in communal spaces, such as hallways and lobbies? Can't hurt to mention it.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Wind turbine opposition reaches legislature
Opposition to wind turbines in Pigeon Bay has even reached the Ontario legislature.
Last week MPP Bruce Crozier presented a petition signed by “thousands” of area residents opposed to any wind generating projects in the bay.
And despite the mounting pressure on the government, the company behind the proposal says it will be answering all the questions its detractors have raised.
SouthPoint Wind recently issued a statement saying it is following all the guidelines of government agencies for the offshore project.
In 2008 SouthPoint refiled its proposal with the province to build wind turbines in three specific sites in Pigeon Bay, basically in areas offshore from Leamington, Union and Kingsville.
In January, 2006, the province announced a moratorium on wind turbines in Lake Erie and then lifted it in January 2008.
“To date, no information sessions have been held or endorsed by SouthPoint Wind, as we are currently still working through our Environmental Assessment process,” says the statement from SouthPoint, issued by Stacey Murtag, its Director of Operations.
“Public safety and consultation are paramount in the Environmental Assessment process, which will also explore subjects including health and safety, noise, lake ecosystem processes, bathymetric properties, water turbidity, electromagnetic interference, impacts to wildlife, shadow flicker, turbine lighting, spills and contaminants, transportation, navigable waters use, and impacts to fisheries. These topics and more will be explicitly addressed in our Environmental Screening Report, which will be available for public review upon publication,” says SouthPoint.
On May 31 at the Leamington Marina the group “citizens Against Lake Erie Wind Turbines” (CALEWT) held another open house where its opposition points were again highlighted.
At that session members of the Leamington Yacht Club said the Pigeon Bay sites represent a hazard to navigation for almost every type of craft from lake freighters, pleasure boats, fishing tugs and the ferries between the mainland and Pelee Island.
On May 25 several members of CALEWT met with Ontario minister of the environment, John Gerretsen.
“The meeting lasted longer than the time allotted,” said Leamington Deputy Mayor Rob Schmidt, who attended.
He said the citizens group gave a presentation that was “very well done”.
Schmidt, who was speaking at last week’s town council meeting, said that new environmental assessment regulations” are being developed.
“We will get those very shortly.”
“They will be very stringent for the proponent,” Said Schmidt.
Schmidt also said the delegation meeting with Gerretsen was told those new rules “will apply” to SouthPoint’s proposed wind turbines in Pigeon Bay.
SouthPoint says it encourages the public to go through its screening report once it has been completed although there was no timeline on when that would happen.
Last week MPP Bruce Crozier presented a petition signed by “thousands” of area residents opposed to any wind generating projects in the bay.
And despite the mounting pressure on the government, the company behind the proposal says it will be answering all the questions its detractors have raised.
SouthPoint Wind recently issued a statement saying it is following all the guidelines of government agencies for the offshore project.
In 2008 SouthPoint refiled its proposal with the province to build wind turbines in three specific sites in Pigeon Bay, basically in areas offshore from Leamington, Union and Kingsville.
In January, 2006, the province announced a moratorium on wind turbines in Lake Erie and then lifted it in January 2008.
“To date, no information sessions have been held or endorsed by SouthPoint Wind, as we are currently still working through our Environmental Assessment process,” says the statement from SouthPoint, issued by Stacey Murtag, its Director of Operations.
“Public safety and consultation are paramount in the Environmental Assessment process, which will also explore subjects including health and safety, noise, lake ecosystem processes, bathymetric properties, water turbidity, electromagnetic interference, impacts to wildlife, shadow flicker, turbine lighting, spills and contaminants, transportation, navigable waters use, and impacts to fisheries. These topics and more will be explicitly addressed in our Environmental Screening Report, which will be available for public review upon publication,” says SouthPoint.
On May 31 at the Leamington Marina the group “citizens Against Lake Erie Wind Turbines” (CALEWT) held another open house where its opposition points were again highlighted.
At that session members of the Leamington Yacht Club said the Pigeon Bay sites represent a hazard to navigation for almost every type of craft from lake freighters, pleasure boats, fishing tugs and the ferries between the mainland and Pelee Island.
On May 25 several members of CALEWT met with Ontario minister of the environment, John Gerretsen.
“The meeting lasted longer than the time allotted,” said Leamington Deputy Mayor Rob Schmidt, who attended.
He said the citizens group gave a presentation that was “very well done”.
Schmidt, who was speaking at last week’s town council meeting, said that new environmental assessment regulations” are being developed.
“We will get those very shortly.”
“They will be very stringent for the proponent,” Said Schmidt.
Schmidt also said the delegation meeting with Gerretsen was told those new rules “will apply” to SouthPoint’s proposed wind turbines in Pigeon Bay.
SouthPoint says it encourages the public to go through its screening report once it has been completed although there was no timeline on when that would happen.
Monday, June 1, 2009
Solar Energy For Your Home On A Budget
Using solar energy for your home is one of the easiest ways to reduce your electric bill. Because solar energy is highly efficient, and with the tax incentives available, you can regain your expenses quickly.
The simplest and easiest way to use solar energy for your home is with hot water. Domestic hot water is one of the most expensive consumers of electricity in your house. An electric hot water heater is much more expensive to operate than a simple solar hot water system.
Solar hot water
With solar hot water you can make your own system, buy a system and install it yourself, or hire the entire project out to a solar contractor. When you get down to it, it is a matter of time, money and skill.
The easiest method for using solar energy is by preheating your domestic hot water. It is not difficult, plus you will make a difference without too much effort or cash.
Actually, typical solar panels are not required. With a sunny room, a plastic barrel of water and a little plumbing, you will have a basic solar water heater. You can reduce your electric bill dramatically by using this simple setup.
New construction
The best way to have solar energy for your home is to include it as an integral part of the design, before anything is constructed. When you are building, you should think about the orientation of the house, the pitch of the roof, and other items. With new construction, you receive the most benefits of solar energy.
While you are planning your house, make sure to find a builder who has experience in building an efficient house. There is a wide range of attitudes and abilities among contractors when it comes to energy efficiency.
Think for yourself, ask around, find a good solar expert in your area. Your energy efficient home will be beautiful, and easy on the budget!
Do it yourself kits
Obviously, most people are already in the house they are hoping to make solar, at least as much as possible. A do it yourself kit is one of the best ways to start. There are several types of kits available, but generally they are designed for the weekend warrior.
From locally available materials, you will make a windmill, solar panel, and a generator. You will need more than one solar panel to power your entire house, but these kits will help you get started. Your electric bills will go down as you supplement your own power needs.
The simplest and easiest way to use solar energy for your home is with hot water. Domestic hot water is one of the most expensive consumers of electricity in your house. An electric hot water heater is much more expensive to operate than a simple solar hot water system.
Solar hot water
With solar hot water you can make your own system, buy a system and install it yourself, or hire the entire project out to a solar contractor. When you get down to it, it is a matter of time, money and skill.
The easiest method for using solar energy is by preheating your domestic hot water. It is not difficult, plus you will make a difference without too much effort or cash.
Actually, typical solar panels are not required. With a sunny room, a plastic barrel of water and a little plumbing, you will have a basic solar water heater. You can reduce your electric bill dramatically by using this simple setup.
New construction
The best way to have solar energy for your home is to include it as an integral part of the design, before anything is constructed. When you are building, you should think about the orientation of the house, the pitch of the roof, and other items. With new construction, you receive the most benefits of solar energy.
While you are planning your house, make sure to find a builder who has experience in building an efficient house. There is a wide range of attitudes and abilities among contractors when it comes to energy efficiency.
Think for yourself, ask around, find a good solar expert in your area. Your energy efficient home will be beautiful, and easy on the budget!
Do it yourself kits
Obviously, most people are already in the house they are hoping to make solar, at least as much as possible. A do it yourself kit is one of the best ways to start. There are several types of kits available, but generally they are designed for the weekend warrior.
From locally available materials, you will make a windmill, solar panel, and a generator. You will need more than one solar panel to power your entire house, but these kits will help you get started. Your electric bills will go down as you supplement your own power needs.
Monday, May 25, 2009
Desalination of Seawater in California
The vast $320 million desalination plant approved this week by San Diego’s regional water authorities is likely to serve as a test case for whether such a large project can meet its goals while safeguarding its Pacific environment.
The plant, to be built near Carlsbad, north of San Diego, will be the first large-scale desalination operation on the West Coast and the largest in the hemisphere. “If they build it well and it operates well and the price is right, we will see more,” said Peter Gleick, the cofounder and president of the Pacific Institute in Oakland, Calif.
“I think there’s going to be some hesitancy to really expand desalination until this plant is up and running,” he added. “There’s going to be hesitancy on the part of everyone — regulators, water agencies and municipalities.”
Other ambitious desalination projects are being considered along the California coast, from Marin County just north of San Francisco to Santa Cruz, Monterey, Long Beach and Huntington Beach. Cities, water companies and environmentalists are likely to scrutinize how the plant near Carlsbad performs financially and technically and weigh its environmental impact.
Environmentalists have battled the project in lawsuits, raising concerns about the amount of fish that will be killed by the pumping process and about potential change to the aquatic ecosystem when leftover brine is returned to the sea. So far they have not won any victories.
Poseidon Resources pursued the project for over six years before gaining final approval on Wednesday from the San Diego Regional Water Quality Control Board, the last of four agencies whose assent was needed.
The plant will filter 100 million gallons of seawater daily, taking salt out by filtering it through fine membranes, a process called reverse osmosis. If construction proceeds as scheduled, it will produce 50 million gallons of drinking water by 2011.
The plant would provide water to nine municipal water agencies in northern San Diego County, filling 10 percent of the county’s drinking water needs. Its capacity makes it one of the biggest outside the Middle East.
The California Coastal Commission, one of the agencies that approved the project, raised questions last month about whether Poseidon’s plan to mitigate the damage to aquatic life was sufficient. Poseidon plans to create 55 acres of new coastal wetlands to mitigate the loss of fish. The Coastal Commission suggested that a minimum of 66 acres was required, but the regional water board signed off on the original plan.
The plant, to be built near Carlsbad, north of San Diego, will be the first large-scale desalination operation on the West Coast and the largest in the hemisphere. “If they build it well and it operates well and the price is right, we will see more,” said Peter Gleick, the cofounder and president of the Pacific Institute in Oakland, Calif.
“I think there’s going to be some hesitancy to really expand desalination until this plant is up and running,” he added. “There’s going to be hesitancy on the part of everyone — regulators, water agencies and municipalities.”
Other ambitious desalination projects are being considered along the California coast, from Marin County just north of San Francisco to Santa Cruz, Monterey, Long Beach and Huntington Beach. Cities, water companies and environmentalists are likely to scrutinize how the plant near Carlsbad performs financially and technically and weigh its environmental impact.
Environmentalists have battled the project in lawsuits, raising concerns about the amount of fish that will be killed by the pumping process and about potential change to the aquatic ecosystem when leftover brine is returned to the sea. So far they have not won any victories.
Poseidon Resources pursued the project for over six years before gaining final approval on Wednesday from the San Diego Regional Water Quality Control Board, the last of four agencies whose assent was needed.
The plant will filter 100 million gallons of seawater daily, taking salt out by filtering it through fine membranes, a process called reverse osmosis. If construction proceeds as scheduled, it will produce 50 million gallons of drinking water by 2011.
The plant would provide water to nine municipal water agencies in northern San Diego County, filling 10 percent of the county’s drinking water needs. Its capacity makes it one of the biggest outside the Middle East.
The California Coastal Commission, one of the agencies that approved the project, raised questions last month about whether Poseidon’s plan to mitigate the damage to aquatic life was sufficient. Poseidon plans to create 55 acres of new coastal wetlands to mitigate the loss of fish. The Coastal Commission suggested that a minimum of 66 acres was required, but the regional water board signed off on the original plan.
Renewable Energy in Naperville City
Allan Poole is Director of Public Utilities for the City of Naperville in charge of the City’s water, wastewater, and electric utility systems serving a present population of 145,000 in DuPage and Will Counties, Illinois. Naperville has owned and operated its electric utility since 1899 and as a public power community saw the opportunity four years ago to support renewable electric energy development in Illinois.
In partnership with Community Energy, an Iberdrola Company, they have developed one of the most successful voluntary programs for renewable energy city in the nation. From January, 2006 at the start of their Renewable Energy Option Program they have steadily increased the number of their contributing residential customers to 4,300 representing a residential participation rate of 8.5% for the 50,600 residences in Naperville.
At present the average contributing residential customer makes a monthly premium payment on their monthly utility bill for approximately 470 kiloWatt-hours of electrical energy to develop new wind, solar, and hydro power in Illinois. The U.S. Department of Energy in 2008 has listed Naperville in their top ten for residential participation.
Allan has been employed with the City of Naperville since 1972, first as Director of Water and Wastewater Utilities until 1992 and since that time as Director of Public Utilities which added the Electric Utility. Naperville’s population was only 23,000 in 1972 and utility systems have been a vital part of the rapid growth to the present 145,000.
He is a 1961 graduate of the University of Iowa, Iowa City, in Civil-Environmental Engineering and a licensed professional engineer in Illinois and Washington State. He is Fellow and Life Member of the American Society of Civil Engineers, a Board Certified Environmental Engineer in the American Academy of Environmental Engineers, and a Life Member of the American Water Works Association and the Water Environment Federation.
Allan has served as the City of Naperville’s representative on the Board of Commissioners of the DuPage Water Commission for the past 20 years, and on the Board of Directors of the Illinois Municipal Electric Agency and the University of Iowa Professional Advisory Board.
He was the recipient of the Professional Engineering Management Award of the Illinois Society of Professional Engineers in 1996 and the Public Works Leader of the Year Award of the American Public Works Association, Chicago Metropolitan Chapter in 2000.
He believes in a line from a popular Stevie Wonder song….”Yes my friends the answer is blowing in the wind.”
In partnership with Community Energy, an Iberdrola Company, they have developed one of the most successful voluntary programs for renewable energy city in the nation. From January, 2006 at the start of their Renewable Energy Option Program they have steadily increased the number of their contributing residential customers to 4,300 representing a residential participation rate of 8.5% for the 50,600 residences in Naperville.
At present the average contributing residential customer makes a monthly premium payment on their monthly utility bill for approximately 470 kiloWatt-hours of electrical energy to develop new wind, solar, and hydro power in Illinois. The U.S. Department of Energy in 2008 has listed Naperville in their top ten for residential participation.
Allan has been employed with the City of Naperville since 1972, first as Director of Water and Wastewater Utilities until 1992 and since that time as Director of Public Utilities which added the Electric Utility. Naperville’s population was only 23,000 in 1972 and utility systems have been a vital part of the rapid growth to the present 145,000.
He is a 1961 graduate of the University of Iowa, Iowa City, in Civil-Environmental Engineering and a licensed professional engineer in Illinois and Washington State. He is Fellow and Life Member of the American Society of Civil Engineers, a Board Certified Environmental Engineer in the American Academy of Environmental Engineers, and a Life Member of the American Water Works Association and the Water Environment Federation.
Allan has served as the City of Naperville’s representative on the Board of Commissioners of the DuPage Water Commission for the past 20 years, and on the Board of Directors of the Illinois Municipal Electric Agency and the University of Iowa Professional Advisory Board.
He was the recipient of the Professional Engineering Management Award of the Illinois Society of Professional Engineers in 1996 and the Public Works Leader of the Year Award of the American Public Works Association, Chicago Metropolitan Chapter in 2000.
He believes in a line from a popular Stevie Wonder song….”Yes my friends the answer is blowing in the wind.”
Monday, March 30, 2009
Community hall in Cam is benefiting from solar panels
A COMMUNITY hall is set to benefit from the power of the sun with a new roof of solar panels.
The environmentally friendly technology has been installed on the Wintherbotham Memorial Hall, in Cam, and with the last few weeks of sunshine the panels are proving to be a big success.
Jeremy Clutterbuck, a member of the memorial hall committee, said it was already producing enough electricity for the hall and more.
"It is working brilliantly already, We have had some really sunny days and it has been working at full capacity, but even on cloudy days it still produces some power," said Mr Clutterbuck.
The green technology should power all the lights and other electrical equipment in the hall, cutting carbon emission by about four tonnes annually.
Inside the hall a live display system will show how much solar electricity has been generated and how much carbon dioxide has been saved.
Any surplus electricity will be exported off site, providing an income and savings of about £2,000 each year, which can be invested back into the community hall.
Dr Keith Pearce, a member of the memorial hall committee leader of the solar energy project, said: "The project is part of our overall effort in the village to reduce energy use. It is well worth the effort.
"Our building is situated by the busy A4135 and presents an opportunity to show thousands of people what can be done to reduce our impact on the environment."
The £64,000 cost of the solar panels was met by £31,000 from the Government’s Low Carbon Buildings Programme, £21,500 from Stroud District Council’s Cheers programme, £9,500 from EDF Energy’s Green Fund and £2,000 from Cam Parish Council.
The solar panel project fits into Cam Parish Council’s ongoing project to reduce the community’s energy use.
Hundreds of low energy light bulbs have been distributed around the village and the parish was also the first to pilot a scheme which involved switching off one in every three street lights in the early hours of the morning.
John Hudson, chairman of Cam Parish Council, said: "There is always something people can do to reduce their energy use, from insulating their home to changing their habits, without their lifestyle suffering. Anyone can act now to reduce their carbon footprint – we just want to inspire people to do it."
The environmentally friendly technology has been installed on the Wintherbotham Memorial Hall, in Cam, and with the last few weeks of sunshine the panels are proving to be a big success.
Jeremy Clutterbuck, a member of the memorial hall committee, said it was already producing enough electricity for the hall and more.
"It is working brilliantly already, We have had some really sunny days and it has been working at full capacity, but even on cloudy days it still produces some power," said Mr Clutterbuck.
The green technology should power all the lights and other electrical equipment in the hall, cutting carbon emission by about four tonnes annually.
Inside the hall a live display system will show how much solar electricity has been generated and how much carbon dioxide has been saved.
Any surplus electricity will be exported off site, providing an income and savings of about £2,000 each year, which can be invested back into the community hall.
Dr Keith Pearce, a member of the memorial hall committee leader of the solar energy project, said: "The project is part of our overall effort in the village to reduce energy use. It is well worth the effort.
"Our building is situated by the busy A4135 and presents an opportunity to show thousands of people what can be done to reduce our impact on the environment."
The £64,000 cost of the solar panels was met by £31,000 from the Government’s Low Carbon Buildings Programme, £21,500 from Stroud District Council’s Cheers programme, £9,500 from EDF Energy’s Green Fund and £2,000 from Cam Parish Council.
The solar panel project fits into Cam Parish Council’s ongoing project to reduce the community’s energy use.
Hundreds of low energy light bulbs have been distributed around the village and the parish was also the first to pilot a scheme which involved switching off one in every three street lights in the early hours of the morning.
John Hudson, chairman of Cam Parish Council, said: "There is always something people can do to reduce their energy use, from insulating their home to changing their habits, without their lifestyle suffering. Anyone can act now to reduce their carbon footprint – we just want to inspire people to do it."
Sand miner US Silica plans 15-acre, rotating solar panels
COMMERCIAL TWP. - Mayor George Garrison has announced that U.S. Silica, a sand mining operation, will create a 15-acre solar panel farm with panels that will rotate to follow the sun at its Mauricetown facility.
It will generate enough energy for 90 percent of the needs of the plant, he said.
The township committee has introduced a 2009 budget, but it is far from ready to adopt.
Garrison said it was being introduced early with the hope that an appeal to the state for a special appropriation will be successful.
"This is a very proactive move for green energy," Garrison said.
The budget, as introduced, includes $3.3 million in total appropriations and calls for $280,000 to be raised for municipal purposes, or the local purpose tax.
The 2009 budget notes no outstanding debt.
No surplus is listed as being used as a revenue source and no tentative tax rate has been estimated.
It will generate enough energy for 90 percent of the needs of the plant, he said.
The township committee has introduced a 2009 budget, but it is far from ready to adopt.
Garrison said it was being introduced early with the hope that an appeal to the state for a special appropriation will be successful.
"This is a very proactive move for green energy," Garrison said.
The budget, as introduced, includes $3.3 million in total appropriations and calls for $280,000 to be raised for municipal purposes, or the local purpose tax.
The 2009 budget notes no outstanding debt.
No surplus is listed as being used as a revenue source and no tentative tax rate has been estimated.
Webel-SL Energy to Start Second Solar Panel Plant
NEW DELHI -- Webel-SL Energy Systems Ltd. Friday said it is investing around 1.8 billion rupees ($35.7 million) to build a second factory in eastern India to manufacture solar photovoltaic cells as it seeks to tap into rising global demand for clean energy.
"It (the new factory) will be operational within a month," Ambarish Bangur, Webel-SL marketing manager, told Dow Jones Newswires by telephone from Kolkata, where the company is based.
The new plant is being constructed on the outskirts of Kolkata and will increase Webel-SL's annual manufacturing capacity to 42 MW from the current 12 MW, Mr. Bangur said.
Webel-SL now generates about 95% of its total sales from exports to the U.S., Europe and Australia, he said, adding: "We get only 3% to 5% of our sales from India."
But he said also that the company is witnessing rising local demand, helped by an increasing focus on renewable energy in the country.
On news that China plans to subsidize up to 50% of the installation cost of rooftop solar panels, Bangur said that "China is a big potential market," but the company has no plan to set up a factory there.
"Our products are 10%-15% cheaper than those made in Europe," he said. "If there is demand, we can compete with other companies in China by exporting from India."
"It (the new factory) will be operational within a month," Ambarish Bangur, Webel-SL marketing manager, told Dow Jones Newswires by telephone from Kolkata, where the company is based.
The new plant is being constructed on the outskirts of Kolkata and will increase Webel-SL's annual manufacturing capacity to 42 MW from the current 12 MW, Mr. Bangur said.
Webel-SL now generates about 95% of its total sales from exports to the U.S., Europe and Australia, he said, adding: "We get only 3% to 5% of our sales from India."
But he said also that the company is witnessing rising local demand, helped by an increasing focus on renewable energy in the country.
On news that China plans to subsidize up to 50% of the installation cost of rooftop solar panels, Bangur said that "China is a big potential market," but the company has no plan to set up a factory there.
"Our products are 10%-15% cheaper than those made in Europe," he said. "If there is demand, we can compete with other companies in China by exporting from India."
Solar panel makers vulnerable: Barron's
NEW YORK (Reuters) - Shares of First Solar Inc (FSLR.O) and Energy Conversion Devices Inc (ENER.O), which make low-silicon solar panels, look vulnerable as falling silicon prices narrow their cost advantages versus rivals that rely more heavily on silicon, Barron's reported on Sunday.
A key selling point for the "thin-film" panels sold by First Solar and Energy Conversion was that they used very little silicon, and were therefore lower-cost alternatives to traditional panels, Barron's said.
With silicon prices dropping, silicon panels could become so cheap that they take share from the lower-cost substitutes, Barron's said.
A key selling point for the "thin-film" panels sold by First Solar and Energy Conversion was that they used very little silicon, and were therefore lower-cost alternatives to traditional panels, Barron's said.
With silicon prices dropping, silicon panels could become so cheap that they take share from the lower-cost substitutes, Barron's said.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Residents learn about renewable energy, earn cash for solar panels
In the third of a series of lectures in Andover on renewable energy, John Rogers, a senior energy analyst with the Union of Concerned Scientists, spoke Tuesday night about the possible impacts of climate change on Massachusetts and about the options to address it.
Rogers emphasized what he believes is the potential for reducing global warming pollution by increasing energy efficiency and using more renewable energy sources such as wind and solar. As an example, he presented analysis released this week by the Union of Concerned Scientists showing the positive economic and environmental effects of requiring utilities across the U.S. to use at least 25 percent renewable energy by 2025.
"Our choices about the way we make and use energy in our homes, on the road, or at work," Rogers said, "will make a tremendous difference in how severe global warming will be, and on the kind of world we'll leave to our children and grandchildren."
He also pointed to the importance of voluntary efforts such as the state-sponsored Clean Energy Choice program. Under that program, residents and businesses have earned more than $45,000 in grant money for Andover, $30,000 of which is available to obtain solar electric panels for a public building in Andover. An additional $30,000 is available for the panels under the state's new Commonwealth Solar program.
The fourth and final lecture in this series at Andover houses of worship will be by Scott McClintock, director of sales at Nexamp, Inc. and an Andover resident. He will speak on March 31 at 7:30 p.m. at South Church on Central Street, about how solar technology can help lower electricity bills. A new citizens' group, the Andover Climate Team, will meet over an informal dinner at 6 p.m. prior to McClintock's talk at South Church to discuss additional actions needed to realize their goal of obtaining a solar panel for Andover, according to Bill Schroeder.
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