Green Technology

Cornell professor Francis Moon (photo) has done some research on generating wind power without turbine blades.

The research looks at “ … vibro-wind power: harvesting energy from the wind as it flows around commercial and residential buildings.  …”

If scalable this would might be a source of power in many large cities bringing the generation source close to the point of use. Large citie4s with multi story buildings may have more power potential with vibro-wind than solar as the roof-print dwarfs the outside surface area.

Via:  Cornell University  LINK

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Design firm OnionWorks was selected to design new net-zero energy homes on a site in Philadelphia’s East Falls neighborhood. 

Plans call for 120 + housing units and retail space with sustainability and low energy use part of the plans as well as proximity to mass transit.

“ … energy for … heating, cooling, light and home hot water will be generated on site, with green roofs and a solar panel array. … indoor bike storage … electric vehicle charging ports and spaces for Zip Cars.”

While not a sure thing plans call for construction to start in 2013 with completion in 2014.

Via:  NewsWorsks  LINK

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Creating solar panels takes lots of energy and time in a furnace.  A new “Optical Cavity” furnace developed by the NREL can create more efficient solar cells.

“ … Optical Cavity Furnace … uses optics to heat and purify solar cells at unmatched precision while sharply boosting the cells' efficiency.”

“ … can … maximize efficiency while minimizing heating and cooling costs.”

The end result is more efficient solar panels.

Via:  National Renewable Energy Laboratory  LINK

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GE recently received federal funding (from US-DOE) to find more cost effective ways to bring solar to homes.

One part of solar PV (photovoltaic) system that they are looking to improve is the inverters that convert DC to AC. Current inverters have drawbacks including “… higher cost, less than ideal efficiency.  Research will focus on integrated inverters that are lower in cost and more efficient to help get the cost closer to retail electric prices. 

Another opportunity is to reduce the weight of systems.  Systems today are 2 – 3 lbs / sq-ft with external (to the panels) wiring.   GE is looking to develop systems in then range of 1 lb / sq-ft. with connected wiring.  These could unfold at the installation site and be ready to install – without the need for heavy racking systems.

Via:  GE Global Research LINK

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Infineon Raceway has a number of green indicatives underway including solar power (over 1,600 panels), recycling and using sheep to cut the grass instead of gas powered equipment.

“Since 2004 … has recycled more than 141 tons (282,541 pounds) of materials … “ including 14,000 tires.

“ … partnership with Panasonic Corporation [on a] … major solar installation that accounts for 41-percent of the raceway’s overall energy usage …”

The video below gives more details on the sustainability efforts at Infineon Raceway.

Via:  Smart Planet  LINK and Infineon Raceway LINK

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Peninsula Packaging uses recycled materials and green energy.  I recently saw some apples packed in one of their clamshells that noted the plastic was 70 % recycled and made with 50% solar energy.

They own and operate “ … one of the largest privately funded renewable energy solar "farm" in North America.”

Over the past 3 years their use of recycled plastics and green energy have resulted in some impressive results …

“ … 2.9 billion drink bottles recycled … ..enough electricity saved to power 20,600 homes … over 84,000 tons of green house gas … was NOT emitted in the atmosphere … “

Via: Peninsula Packaging Company Link

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Germantown Friends School’s (Philadelphia) new science center is very green.  The facility is energy efficient, has rainwater cisterns, a green roof, solar panels and a dashboard that provides real time data on water and power usage. 

Click HERE to see the current dashboard information and to learn more about this unique facility.

The building uses geothermal wells for heating and cooling to greatly reduce the energy costs.

The cisterns collect rainwater for use as gray water for flushing toilets leading to significant water savings.  The green roof absorbs rainwater that would otherwise have to be treated by the city sever system.

The facility will receive LEED certification.

Via:  Germantown Friends   LINK

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SolFocus used its installation partners feedback to design its new concentrator panel, simplifying the structure, its packaging, and the deployment.  …

…   “The SF-1136SX is constructed using Multi-Panel Assemblies (MPA's) of four panels each, with nine MPAs comprising a single array.

The MPA's are precision-assembled at the factory and completely eliminate any field alignment requirements.

Installation of the equipment now comprises a series of non-specialized assembly steps, followed by a totally automatic calibration process prior to the start of energy generation.”   …

Via  SolFocus: Solar Panel Installation.

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Duke researchers are building copper wire films at the nano-scale that would serve to lower the cost and sustain the performance of solar cells by replacing more expensive materials.  …

…   “research shows that the copper nanowire films have the same properties as those currently used in electronic devices and solar cells, but are less expensive to manufacture.”   …

Via Duke University: Copper Nanowires.

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Collaborative, cross-university research program explores ways to control the density of quantum dots using nano-techniques, creating a more efficient solar cell.  …

…   “The colloidal quantum dots examined by Asbury and his team members yielded the highest electrical currents, and the highest overall power-conversion efficiency, ever seen in colloidal quantum dot (CQD) solar cells.”   …

Via Penn State University: Quantum Dot Solar Cell.

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Michigan Technological University adds talent to its roster of research-oriented educators in order to achieves its energy objectives.  The University’s strategic initiatives include development of future energy systems, with objectives in energy generation, mitigation, materials, and production modeling.  …

…   “Joshua Pearce will greatly add to Michigan Tech’s expertise in the area of renewable energy generation and photovoltaic materials. He received his PhD from Penn State in 2004 for research on the development of low-cost solar photovoltaic technology.

Since then, he has been recognized internationally for his work in advancing renewable energy. He is working on projects that range from fundamental photovoltaic materials development and device physics to more applied systems design and performance.”   …

Via Michigan Tech: Energy Initiatives.

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The State of Oregon University System will deploy solar panels across multiple campuses to generate five megawatts of power.  OIT will derive all of its power from renewable sources, leveraging this solar project in combination with an existing geothermal energy installation.  …

…   “Solar By Degrees will utilize solar panels from Hillsboro-based SolarWorld, solar inverters from PV Powered of Bend, will use Oregon Electric of Portland as the lead contractor for the project, and will work with Oregon contractors to complete installation and related work at OIT in Klamath Falls, OSU in Corvallis, and EOU in La Grande.”   …

Via Oregon University System: Solar Power Project.

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Installation of solar panels on residential roofs in the U.S. continues on a modest positive trend, while the total opportunity for rooftop solar power remains significant.  However, the percentage mix of residential solar projects is falling as more industrial and commercial projects are initiated.  …

…   “From the first quarter of 2010 to the fourth quarter, installations of U.S. residential solar systems rose from 62 megawatts to 74 megawatts (enough to power about 15,000 homes) …”   …

Via Yale 360: Rooftop Solar.

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With Suntrica’s SolarStrap™ you never have to worry about runnning out of batteries for your small electronic devices. 

Suntrica’s SolarStrap™ combines a solar panel with an integrated battery pack to store power for charging small electronics such as cell phones, mp3 players and is “ … compatible with most … devices utilizing 5 V charging voltage”

“SolarStrap™ is… designed specifically for harsh outdoor use. … responce to the … charging challenge in developing markets having limited access to electricity. “

Via:  Suntrica Ltd.  LINK

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Ford and SunPower have a program where customers of the Ford Focus Electric car are offered the opting to purchase solar PV system that would  generate free and clean energy to offset the grid power used to charge the car.

The system can generate ….” an average of 3,000 kilowatt hours of electricity annually. … sized to accommodate … about 1,000 miles per month.

The price of the solar system is approx. $10,000 after incentives and rebates.

Via:  Ford LINK

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The US DOE is sponsoring the 2011 Solar Decathlon – where 20 colleges and universities bring houses they designed and built to DC to compete in an “energy-off”. 

The winner will be determined by the team that “ … best blends affordability, consumer appeal, and design excellence with optimal energy production and maximum efficiency.”

Houses should be …. “affordable, attractive …”  and provide a healthy / comfortable living space and ideally generate more energy that it uses from wind and / or solar systems

Check it out if you are going to be in or near DC … and look for teams from around the world as well as the US.

Via:  US DOE LINK

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DuPont has bought innovaLight.

“Innovalight has developed … patented technologies and materials that allow crystalline silicon cell manufacturers to produce solar cells with higher conversion efficiencies. “

innovaLights goal was to help manufacturers of solar cells improve  the performance(higher conversion rates) of the solar cells and reduce the manufactured cost.

Via:  innovaLight  LINK

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The CBS series “The Good Wife” is a green production.  From the practices on the set to the scenes they film they are being green. 

The set has made significant reductions in waste … using soda fountains instead of cans of soda, mostly eliminating paper plates and plastic ware, using reusable water bottles and sending scene / script rewrites electronically rather than printing paper copies.

They even “lead by example”  by modeling green behaviors … having characters carry reusable water bottles instead of single use plastic bottles. 

See the video for more information … two of the actors and the Executive Producer tell how they live green in real life.  This is an impressive story.

Via:  Smart Planet  LINK

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China entrepreneur supports the UC Riverside engineering college with endowment that will foster energy research, initially in storage systems.  …

…   “The Winston Chung Global Energy Center will focus initially on research in energy storage, but in collaboration with solar and wind power generating companies, the City of Riverside, and local power consumers, it will be at the forefront of creating a new smart energy grid. Integrating energy production with new storage and distribution technologies, the Global Energy Center will allow Riverside to be a world-wide leader in renewable energy.”   …

Via University of California Riverside: Inaugural Fellow.

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The Greek austerity plan may help balance spending and debt servicing, but growth will help the country recover.  Greece is positioned geographically to harvest renewable energy, demonstrating solar and wind technology leadership, and should plan accordingly.  …

…   “Finally, with considerable potential for wind and solar energy, green technologies can, in the longer run, become a major source of growth. Greece and its friends should spend as much time and brain power on designing the short and long-run elements of a growth strategy …”   …

Via Brookings Institution: Greece Growth Opportunity.

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The nanomaterial graphene could benefit from continuing research into processes to apply it in production.  The material has been found to fold, reducing its conductivity.  Further research will help scientists better understand how to manage the efficiency.  …

…   “UB-led study suggests that companies hoping to incorporate graphene into such products as conductive inks, ultrafast transistors and solar panels could benefit from more basic research on the nanomaterial.”   …

Via University of Buffalo: Graphene Conductivity.

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Univ of Delaware expert will conduct research with colleagues in the Republic of Azerbaijan, where harvesting the sun’s energy is unexploited.  …

…   “His expertise in thin-film photovoltaics, or solar cells made from plastics, is of special interest to scientists in Baku State University’s Nano Center because solar power is considered an untapped resource in Eastern Europe, a region that receives abundant sunshine throughout much of the year.”   …

Via University of Delaware: Material Science Research.

Syed I Shah, University of Delaware.

Baku State University’s Nano Center.

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Brookings-led research team has evaluated alternative energy sources for the countries in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region and presented their findings in following paper.  The region has not even begun to harness the alternative energy sources that are available.  Abundant solar resources have not been harvested.  And, geothermal power is practically non-existent.  The Gulf States have an opportunity to chart a course to lower-carbon development.  …

…   “Solar power has the potential to serve as a source of regional power supply, as an opportunity to develop regional technological expertise, and as the basis of a new export market for the region.  … While the region boasts sizeable geothermal potential, this resource has been relatively unexploited …”   …

Via Brookings Institution: Low carbon development in countries of the Gulf (PDF).

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SCHOTT Solar and BASF have developed a new photovoltaic panel concept which is modular, lightweight, easy to install, and integrates channels with ventilation.  The pan is made from the BASF resin Ultramid B and is a frameless double-glazed solar module.  …

…   “The dimensions of the double-glazed PV module, which has been designed for large roof areas, combine exceptionally good product characteristics with a high efficiency per unit area.

The integrative solution ensures a considerable reduction in the number of steps necessary for installation. Working direction during roofing is left to the roofer.

The ease of handling provided by the built-in handles permits use of frameless double-glazed modules, thereby preventing the accumulation of dirt on the surface.”   …

Via BASF: Roof Integrated Photovoltaics.

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University of Texas now has the largest solar system in town as it celebrates the completion of photovoltaic power on its J. J. Pickle Research Campus.  …

…    “Consisting of two arrays of solar panels, the photovoltaic system is the largest completed solar project at one location in Austin.”   …

Via University of Texas at Austin: Largest Solar Installation.

Solar Energy Project (PDF): The project consists of two grid-tied solar power systems. One system will be a ground-mounted array of solar panels in a field south of the Microelectronics & Engineering Research Center building. The other system will be an array of panels over a newly constructed carport west of the Bureau of Economic Geology Administration building. A monitoring system will track the energy generated at each installation.

University Facilities Services (PDF).

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With energy costs still climbing interest in energy efficient homes continues to grow. 

Blu Homes manufactures very energy efficient homes.  " ...cost on average 50 to 70 percent less to operate on a monthly basis than conventional homes. Performing significantly beyond even Energy Star standards, ... " . 

Lower energy costs translate to lower operating costs, lower energy use and a lower carbon footprint.

Check out the details on the Breezehouse (a green home with lots of natural light) - from BluHomes.  Green features include passive solar, high efficiency heating / ventilating / AC systems, solar panels and tight insulated construction.

Via:  Blu Homes LINK

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Boston College and MIT collaborate to research improvements to the conversion efficiency of solar thermal panels. 

Nanotech materials and panel design techniques combine to boost the electric power conversion significantly.  …

…   “The team’s introduced two innovations: a better light-absorbing surface through enhanced nanostructured thermoelectric materials, which was then placed within an energy-trapping, vacuum-sealed flat panel.

Combined, both measures added enhanced electricity-generating capacity to solar-thermal power technology …”   …

Via Boston College: Solar Thermal Panels.

Boston College Professor of Physics Zhifeng Ren.

Research focus areas.

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MIT scientists have found a novel way to use virus' to improve the efficiency of PV cells.   The virus' " ... perform detailed assembly work at the microscopic level ... based on findings that carbon nanotubes ... can enhance the efficiency of ... solar cell's surface."

The virus' are used to " ... control the arrangement of the nanotubes ... so they can’t short out the circuits ..."

Improvements in power conversion efficiency are close to 1/3.

Via:  MIT LINK

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Oregon has a stretch of the Corridor of the Future - at  interchange of I-5 and I-205 in Oregon.  Ground mounted solar panels that provide power used at the interchange.

" ...  104 kilowatt ground-mounted solar array ... supplies about one-third of the energy needed for illumination at the site.
 
" ... energy ... feeds into the grid during the day ... At night ... energy flows back from the grid to light the interchange. ..."

Too see the current energy stats click the LINK

Via: Oregon.gov  LINK

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Street sgns and utility power poles are almost everywhere.  A project at The University of Nebraska is looking into ways to use wind power and solar panels on signs to power roadway lights and traffic signals.  Any excess power will go into the local energy grid.

The units combine solar and wind generators and feature batteries for storage.  " ... Each unit consists of a wind turbine generator and one or more PV panels mounted on the top of the pole for electric power generation."

" ... overall system involves power generation, storage, distribution, grid operation, and demand-side management.

Via:  University of Nebraska - Lincoln  LINK

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Dynamic Solar installs 250kW solar system for the Philadelphia Water Department at its local pollution control facility.  …

…   “Dynamic Solar teamed with CETCO Contracting Services and Nucero Electric to design, engineer and install the 250kW ground mounted system.

The array is located at the Southeast Water Pollution Control Plant and is expected to generate approximately 330,000 kilowatt hours of solar electricity per year.”   …

Via Dynamic Solar: Philadelphia's Largest Solar System.

Philadelphia wastewater treatment (Link).

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The US Department of Energy is enabling the development of advanced solar photovoltaic manufacturing processes through its SunShot Initiative. 

The agency has selected its initial portfolio of projects for up to $112.5 million of investment over five years. 

The program will create a collaborative network of universities, public labs, and photovoltaic manufacturers focused on commercializing new processes. 

The initial project portfolio:

• Bay Area PV Consortium (BAPVC)
• SVTC will create a contract PV Manufacturing Development Facility
• U.S. Photovoltaic Manufacturing Consortium (PVMC)

…   “The Department's SunShot Advanced Manufacturing Partnerships will help the solar power industry overcome technical barriers and reduce costs for PV installations, help the U.S. regain the lead in the global market for solar technologies, and provide support for clean energy jobs for years to come.

By engaging multiple companies across the PV supply chain, the SunShot Advanced Manufacturing Partnerships program intends to have broad impact on the U.S. solar industry.

Selected projects will create organizations designed to bring PV companies together in a coordinated environment to address common technology needs. 

The facilities established through these projects will provide services, tools, and facilities to PV companies and suppliers to assist them in developing and demonstrating new technologies and in making the transition to commercial production.”   …

Via Department of Energy: Solar Manufacturing Partnerships.

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Storing and concentrating the power generated from solar panels so that it can be used throughout the day is key to driving utilization of this form of renewable energy.  Storage technologies range from batteries to pumped hydro.  The pumped hydro storage technique stores energy in the form of water, which has been pumped from a lower elevation to a higher elevation reservoir.  Then, when demand increases, the stored water is released to power turbines.  …

…   “But add storage to allow a utility to deliver in the evening the solar power that was generated during the morning and afternoon, and — through the magic of storage — the figure zooms dramatically.”   …

Via Wired: Renewable Energy.

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MIT researcher Daniel Nocera discusses the results of his team’s artificial leaf at the 241st National Meeting of the American Chemical Society.  The research team has created an advanced solar cell, based on bio-mimicry of the photosynthesis process used by plants. 

The leaf-like cell chemically splits water into hydrogen and oxygen for storage in a fuel cell for supplying power needs.  The Nocera solar leaf is constructed of inexpensive nickel and cobalt catalysts and material. 

The chemical reaction does not require extreme conditions of temperature or pressure to achieve its photosynthesis efficiency.  Nocera’s team will continue to seek methods to increase the solar conversion efficiency.  …

…   “The device bears no resemblance to Mother Nature's counterparts on oaks, maples and other green plants, which scientists have used as the model for their efforts to develop this new genre of solar cells.

About the shape of a poker card but thinner, the device is fashioned from silicon, electronics and catalysts, substances that accelerate chemical reactions that otherwise would not occur, or would run slowly.

Placed in a single gallon of water in a bright sunlight, the device could produce enough electricity to supply a house in a developing country with electricity for a day, Nocera said.

It does so by splitting water into its two components, hydrogen and oxygen. 

The hydrogen and oxygen gases would be stored in a fuel cell, which uses those two materials to produce electricity, located either on top of the house or beside it.”  …

Via Eureka Alert: Artificial Leaves, ACS Press Release.

American Chemical Society Green Chemistry Institute.

Daniel Nocera at Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Daniel Nocera research team.

Fuel cells.

Bio-mimicry.

Green Chemistry.

The hydrogen economy.

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Pythagoras Solar’s energy efficient windows will generate solar power during a pilot project at Willis Tower, formerly the Sears Tower.  The test is being conducted on south facing windows on the 56th floor.  The solar windows are an example of building integrated photovoltaics, or BIPVs.  …

…   “The pilot project, deployed in November last year on the south facing windows of the Willis Tower's 56th floor, uses a building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) solution that has the potential to expand to a surface area allowing over two megawatts of solar power generation.

Willis Tower provides an example of how sustainable modernization endeavors are about more than reducing carbon emissions but also about re-investing in the local economy.”   …

Via Pythagoras Solar: Pilot Installation.

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85 acre Brooklyn Bridge Park was built with sustainability in mind ... from EV service vehicles to reused / recycled construction materials from prior buildings on the site.

" ...  Designed and built by BE, ... the first solar-powered charging station in New York City and one of only a few in the world. ..."

Over the projected 25 year life of the EV chargers will save "... more than $200,000 in gasoline costs ... More than 530 tons of CO2 ..."

The EV charging system has 24 PV panels with battery storage for 7 x 24 availability can produce 5.6 Kw. 

Via:  Beautiful Earth Group  LINK

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Portland, Maine has signed a deal with Ameresco to cut its carbon footprint.  The project covers approx. 15 years and is to cost $9.4 million.  The city expects to save $17 million over the life of the project.

What is unique about this engagement is that there is no upfront cost to Portland.  "Ameresco will guarantee ... cash flows ... will exceed the cash requirements for the project, offsetting the costs ..."

Per their website ... Ameresco "delivers ... solutions on both sides of the meter ... leverage renewable energy and achieve ... sustainability goals for our ...customers."

Part of the improvements will be a 2,000 watt solar array at one of the schools.

The agreement covers 45 city buildings and 15 schools.

Ameresco is based in Framingham, Mass. 

Via:  Ameresco  LINK

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to generate house power requirements.  …

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Stanford chemical engineering professor Stacey Bent is researching solar cell designs using nano-scale organic materials that boost the power conversion efficiency.  …

…   “Bent's students tried several different organic molecules in an attempt to learn which ones would most increase the efficiency … But she found that the exact molecule didn't matter – just having a single organic layer less than a nanometer thick was enough to triple the efficiency of the solar cells.”   …

Via Stanford University: Solar Cell Efficiency Research (Release).

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Sonoma Wine Company takes sustainability seriously and works to reduce the footprint of the winery operations.  A cogeneration facility is a natural next step.

In this process the heat that passes through the solar cells (PV) is captured to heat water … so electricity and heat are produced from the sun.

Sonoma Wine Company and Cogena Solar have partnered to build the “ … first commercial scale solar cogeneration system to supply renewable heat and electricity …”.

When at full capacity the facility will “ … displace approximately 64,000 kilowatt-hours and 12,500 therms of natural gas annually….”

Why Solar Cogeneration? from Stephen Harper on Vimeo.

Via:  Sonoma Wine Co  LINK

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Jordache Enterprises - owner of Jordache Jeans - uses solar panels at a factory in Jordan. 

They are " ... among the first garment manufacturers worldwide to have installed and use solar panels to heat water ... "

A subsidiary owns the The Orchid hotel in Israel which was the first to install solar cells; these generate " ...  electricity in excess of the resort’s consumption. ... hooked to the regional electric grid, selling excess capacity to the Electric Company..."

Via:  Jordache  LINK

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Penn State research explores the production of hydrogen from fuel cells using light and solar photosynthesis.  The research efforts are focusing on overcoming technical barriers to efficient hydrogen production, by varying materials light wavelengths, etc.  …

…   “While some researchers have used solar cells to make electricity or use concentrated solar heat to split water, Mallouk's process uses the energy in blue light directly.

So far, it is much less efficient than other solar energy conversion technologies.”   …

Via Penn State Univ: Photosynthesis.

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Solar systems are becoming more popular as the cost of panels drops and their efficiencies increase.  But solar systems are still EXPENSIVE.

While solar (PV and / or hot water) can help save money the upfront cost can be enough to make this a non-practical option for many customers.

SolarCity has a program called SolarLease that " ... can make it possible for homeowners and businesses to switch to clean, solar power for less money than they currently pay for electricity."

Via: SolarCity  LINK

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boosts efficiency and savings for Florida facility.  Port St. Lucie Civic Center implemented solar power installation to shift almost fifteen percent of its electricity consumption to renewable energy.  …

The original grant was for solar panels only, but CO2 sensors were included in the contract and added to the grant based on additional energy savings … The carbon dioxide sensors allow the civic center's air system to pipe in fresh air only when needed … “   …

Via Treasure Coast and Palm Beach News: Port St Lucie Civic Center Solar Project.

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Martifer Solar USA and North County Transit Distinct (NCTD) collaborating on 482 kW of solar arrays for the NCTD.  A combination of roof and ground mounted panels will generate 482.52 kW of power.

The solar panels are ” … anticipated to save … an estimated $86,000 dollars per year and … offset … approximately 1,141,488 pounds of CO2 annually….”  This is equivalent to the energy needs of “ … approximately 104 average California homes per year.”

Martifer has previously installed solar systems for “ … public transit operations including the Antelope Valley Transit Authority in Lancaster, CA and the Big Blue Bus maintenance facility in Santa Monica, CA.”

Via:  Martifer Solar  LINK

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through the research of professor Tonio Buonassisi where nanowire production is tightly controlled.  These concepts are being proven in the lab prior to scale-up and commercialization.  …

…   “The spacing of the wires is controlled by textures created on the surface — tiny dimples can form centers for the copper droplets — but the size of the wires is controlled by the temperatures used for the diffusion stage of the process. Thus, unlike in other production methods, the size and spacing of the wires can be controlled independently of each other, Buonassisi says.”   …

Via MIT: Micro Wires.

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UC Davis and UC Santa Cruz researchers will deploy nanotechnology for solar cell construction, hoping to demonstrate sustained efficiency gains.  …

…   “But by constructing solar cells from extremely small nanoparticles, the UC researchers aim to generate several electrons for each photon, raising the maximum efficiency to between 42 and 65 percent.

The one-photon-in/multiple-electrons-out paradigm has been demonstrated at the Los Alamos National Laboratory, Zimanyi said — but the Los Alamos group did not build a functioning solar cell based on this paradigm.

The UC Davis/UC Santa Cruz team includes scientists with experience making solar cells from nanoparticles, giving hope that the group will be able to construct a fully functioning and well-optimized solar cell from germanium and silicon nanoparticles, he said.”   …

Via University of California, Davis: Solar Cell Project Funding, Press Release.

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Richard M. Swanson for his research into performance barriers in silicon solar photovoltaics, commercialization of solar cells, and leadership in the solar industry.  …

…   “Richard M. Swanson, an innovator in the field of photovoltaics and president emeritus of SunPower Corp., will receive the 2011 Karl Böer Solar Energy Medal of Merit during a ceremony to be held at 3 p.m. Tuesday, May 24, in Gore Recital Hall of the Roselle Center for the Arts on the University of Delaware campus in Newark.”   …

Via University of Delaware: Boer Award.

Posted by Green Tech at 01:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

will track sun to convert thermal energy into steam, powering turbines to create electricity.  …

…   “Siemens will now also supply two steam turbines each rated at 133 MW and two generators for Ivanpah Units 2 and 3. The SST-900 turbine is ideally suited for deployment in solar thermal power plants.

This turbine is known for its fast startup and shutdown capability, and the fact that it can very flexibly track the respective operating conditions of solar thermal power plants. Steam reheat enhances the efficiency of the turbine and thus of the entire power plant.

Solar tower technology enables the bundling of sunlight by sun-tracking mirrors, which is directly reflected onto a receiver at the top of a tower where steam is produced to drive a steam turbine that will ultimately generate electricity.”   …

Via Siemens: Control System Project, Press Release.

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Thermochemical reaction produces hydrogen from water and carbon dioxide.  This process could be commercialized if paired with the carbon emissions from an existing power plant.  …

…   “The researchers designed and built a two-foot-tall prototype reactor that has a quartz window and a cavity that absorbs concentrated sunlight.

The concentrator works like the magnifying glass you used as a kid to focus the sun's rays, says Haile. 

At the heart of the reactor is a cylindrical lining of ceria.

Ceria—a metal oxide that is commonly embedded in the walls of self-cleaning ovens …”   …

Via Cal Tech: Solar Reaction Press Release.

Posted by Green Tech at 10:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Solar education is about balancing the detailed technical skills with knowledge of the market and a foundation in the business.  …

…   “As the industry expands, there will be increasing need for focused skills - but for now the solar market is small enough that employees must be able to integrate knowledge about several aspects of the business.”   …

Via Arizona State Univ: Solar Skill Assessment.

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The Army and its operations are energy intensive.  Getting energy to remote or war ravaged areas is both expensive and dangerous.

The Army is looking into tents that incorporate PV solar panels that can be used to charge batteries and small electronics like computers.  In addition to not having to bring in fuel they can travel lighter by not needing a generator (or a smaller one).

Using " ... Flexible Photovoltaics (PV), ... convert light energy into electricity ... ideal for charging up batteries, making sure your (communications), night vision goggles and computers are powered ..."

The key is technology that makes PV "panels" flexible so they are lightweight and foldable / packable.  While still in the testing phase they may be deployed soon.

Via:  US Army LINK

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Snyder's of Hanover (PA) announced construction of the largest solar energy system in PA in October 2010.  Covering 26 acres across from their corporate HQ (in Hanover, PA) the "farm" will have more than 15,000 panels.

" ...reduce greenhouse gas emissions in excess of 230 million pounds of carbon dioxide over a 25 year period. ...energy created ... equals more than 111 million miles not driven by a medium sized car ... 11 million trees would need to be planted to equal the same level of carbon dioxide reduction."

Hanover is not new to green efforts and already has initiatives that include compostable packaging.

View the Webcam image ... LINK

Via:  Snyders of Hanover  LINK

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Petra Solar installations in New Jersey deploy antenna for communications with electronics for troubleshooting.  …

Posted by Green Tech at 03:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Local professors are recognized for their research achievements and contributions to the conversion of the water treatment plant to renewable energy.  …

…   “Chino Valley will receive more than 50 solar panels from TUV-PTL, which it plans to install at the town’s water reclamation facility.”   …

Via Arizona State: Solar Researchers Recognized.

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Philadelphia wants to get 20 % of its electricity from renewable sources by 2015.

" ... Solar City Partnership will develop a strategy through which 2.3 MW of solar electricity will be generated within the city of Philadelphia by 2011 and 57.8 MW by 2021... "

The Solar City Partnership is a JV between the U.S. Department of Energy and the City of Philadelphia.  

Two Systems under consideration are ...

- a 900,000 kWh solar system at the Naval Yard.

- installations at city owned water treatment facilities (Philadelphia Water Department).

Via: Phila.Gov LINK

Posted by Green Dude at 10:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

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Konarka has the solar energy performance of its Power Plastic certified in NREL’s lab.  The lab tested the organic thin-film on a large area single-junction solar cell with a surface area of 1 square centimeter.  …

…   “National Energy Renewable Laboratory has certified that Konarka’s organic based photovoltaic (OPV) solar cells have demonstrated a record breaking 8.3% efficiency. This is the highest performance recorded by NREL for an organic photovoltaic solar cell.”   …

Via Konarka Technologies: Power Plastic Efficiency.

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Lowering the cost of platinum catalyst helps make hydrogen fuel production more cost effective and, when paired with solar energy generation, also lower carbon impact dramatically.  …

…   “Chen explains that when powered by renewable energy sources such as wind- or solar-based technologies, the generation of hydrogen from the electrolysis of water produces a high-energy-density mobile energy carrier without any associated carbon dioxide emissions.

At low temperatures, this water-splitting process can take place in a variety of electrochemical devices …”   …

Via University of Delaware: Hydrogen Production.

Jingguang Chen Research Program.

Research Group.

Posted by Green Tech at 10:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

will enable Stanford scholar to pursue his dreams.  …

…   “Varun S. Sivaram, 21, of Monte Sereno, Calif., is a senior majoring in engineering physics and international relations. He plans to pursue a doctorate of philosophy in solar energy materials at Oxford.”   …

Via Stanford University: American Rhodes Scholars.

Posted by Green Tech at 08:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

E-A-G-L-E-S … Eagles.  S-O-L-A-R … Solar.  W-I-N-D … Wind.  Philadelphia Eagles launch an integrated renewable energy program at the Lincoln Financial Field stadium with the help of Solar Blue.  …

…   “Solar Blue, based in Florida, is going to invest close to $30 million over the next year to build, install, maintain and operate this new power system that will include approximately 80 spiral-shaped wind turbines, 2,500 solar panels and an onsite dual-fuel cogeneration plant.

The power system is targeted to be ready to go for September, 2011.

Solar Blue anticipates employing 200 local residents during the one-year design & installation period. Fifty of these jobs will be permanent operational positions.”   …

Via Philly Eagles: Environmental Initiative.

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UT Dallas professor Babak Fahimi develops smart grid interface device for renewable energy generation.  A research prototype electronic interface switches power intelligently from renewable sources to the grid or to electrical storage.  The unit is being readied for field testing in California and Texas.  …

…   “This converter utilizes an adaptive controller to optimally increase efficiency and reliability for each operational condition while performing energy management algorithms to ensure the best performance. 

Five years in development, the converter would be perfect for use by small to medium-size businesses, large residential buildings and shopping centers that decide to make an investment in renewable energy.”   …

Via University of Texas: Electric Interface Device.

Babak Fahimi Renewable Energy Lab.

Posted by Green Tech at 10:37 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Sheldon Crossing in Manayunk (Philadelphia) Pa offers the latest in GREEN LIVING.   In addition to being LEED certified they offer a Coulomb Technologies electric  car charging station.

" ... will earn a Platinum LEED certification ... homes will use less energy, water, and natural resources ... "  Features include " ... solar panels, vegetative green roofs, insulation, plumbing, HVAC, water purification and smart home automation ..."

The model home's Charging Station for electric vehicles is the first in the city of Philadelphia.  Picture >>>>>

Via:  Sheldon Crossing  LINK and Philadelphia Inquirer LINK

Posted by Green Dude at 08:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

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for the Navaho Nation.  …

…   “Seeking to reverse years of environmental degradation and return to their traditional values, many Navajos are calling for a future built instead on solar farms, ecotourism and microbusinesses.”   …

Via MIT: Navaho Coal Shift.

Posted by Green Tech at 07:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

at Arizona dorm room as new construction is built for sustainability and LEED designation.  …

…   “Solar panels already installed on the roof will provide 60 percent of the hot water needs.”   …

Via Arizona: Solar Dorm.

Posted by Green Tech at 08:35 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Yusen Terminals, Inc has installed solar panels at a facility in the Port of Los Angeles.  The specifics:

96 panels
11,800 kWh/yr
emissions reductions = planting close to 6 acres of trees

Live stats of power generation are available at LINK 

Via:  NYK Line LINK

Posted by Green Dude at 08:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

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Future entrepreneurs eye solar power and smart grids as growth opportunities for new business models.  …

…   “He sees tremendous opportunity in solar energy — noting a steady decline in costs and technology advancements — and smart grid systems that monitor and manage electricity usage.”   …

Via Univ of MIchigan, Ross School of Business: Entrepreneurship.

Posted by Green Tech at 07:59 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Global competition is forcing the solar power industry to become more efficient. Business models are being assessed and changes accelerated as the industry scales.  …

…   “Dr. Fang of JA Solar noted that Innovalight’s technology had allowed the company to improve the efficiency of its photovoltaic cells by 1 percent.”   …

Via New York Times: Solar Innovation.

Posted by Green Tech at 03:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

BrightSourceEnergy builds, owns and operates cost effective large scale solar systems. 

Unlike PV panels that convert sunlight directly to electricity ... their LPT 550 uses thousands of mirrors to focus light rays on a boiler at the top of a tower ... producing steam that drives  a turbine to generate electricity.  The system is closed loop and is cost competitive with oil and gas.

Via:  BrightSourceEnergy LINK

Posted by Green Dude at 05:49 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Walmart is planning to add solar systems to an additional 20 - 30 in California and Arizona using new technology lower cost PV cells.

" ... leveraging our global scale to ... help develop markets for new technologies ... commitment to solving business challenges through technology."

The systems are expected to provide about 25 % of the total energy needs of each location.

Some details about the systems:

- can product up to 22.5 kW / yr - equiv to the energy needed for 1750 home / yr

- avoid 11,650 metric tons CO2 - equiv to 3000 cars

The technology planned includes gallium selenide and cadmium terruride films and are exected to use less raw materials then earlier versions of PV cells.

SolarCity will do the design work as well as install, own and maintain the systems.

Posted by Green Dude at 05:34 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

 Johnson & Johnson has installed a huge solar array at the Ortho Clinical Diagnostic facility in Raritan, NJ.  The solar panels are mounted close to the ground and the very large array is from northbound US-202 that borders the facility.

"The 1.69-megawatt array of over 7,300 ground-mounted panels ... about 2 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of power per year ... decrease green house gas emissions... equivalent to taking about 270 passenger vehicles off the road per year...."

Via:  Johnson & Johnson  LINK

Posted by Green Dude at 08:34 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The White House is going SOLAR. 

Seeking to lead by example ... solar panels for electricity and a solar water heater for the White House residence will go on the roof of the White House. 

" ...  part of a Department of Energy demonstration project showing that American solar technologies are available, reliable, and ready for installation in homes throughout the country ..."

" ... reflects President Obama’s strong commitment to U.S. leadership in solar energy ..."

It was not reported if President Obama will get the federal tax credit for the solar system :-) 

Via:  WhiteHouse.Gov  LINK

Posted by Green Dude at 07:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Home Power Magazine is full of ideas on renewable energy for home owners and professionals.

" ... information exchange has helped create an industry with ... a common goal: reducing the use of polluting fossil fuels and replacing ... with the infinite supplies of renewable energy that surround us. ..."

Issues have covered subjects including " ... solar, wind, and microhydro electricity, energy efficiency, solar hot water systems, space heating and cooling, energy-efficient building materials and home design, ..." and more.

Via: Home Power Magazine LINK

Posted by Green Dude at 05:54 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Duke Energy has leased part of the roof of a National Gypsum facility in Mt Holly NC to use for a solar array.  The output is 1.17 mW - equivalent to the power needs of 700 homes.

" ... 5096 panels ... Duke Energy will own, operate, and maintain all components of the system. The lease agreement is for 25 years."

" ... National Gypsum has contracts to purchase byproduct gypsum ... from four of the utility’s nearby coal-fired plants."

Posted by Green Dude at 03:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The NY Jets have added 3000 solar panels to their team HQ and training grounds in Florham Park, NJ.  It is the largest such system in the NFL.

" ... over 3,000 Yingli Solar panels. ... All of the power generated by the system will be sold to The New York Jets under a long-term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)."

" ...  Designed to generate over 750,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity ... will reduce CO2 emissions by 540 metric tons each year ..."

Via:  PR Newswire  LINK

Posted by Green Dude at 04:43 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

TED event will be streamed from Penn campus.  …

…   “Jason Halpern, the founder and CEO of PowerFlower Solar, a seed stage solar technology company developing a portable, durable solar generator for farmers and the military … “   …

Via University of Pennsylvania: TEDxPenn.

Posted by Green Tech at 01:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

generation by trapping light promoting absorption and boosting power conversion.  …

…   “It was only when Yu began investigating the behavior of light inside a material of deep subwavelength-scale – substantially smaller than the wavelength of the light – that it became evident to him that light could be confined for a longer time, increasing energy absorption beyond the conventional limit at the macroscale. ”   …

Via Stanford University: Ultra-Thin Solar Cells.

Fan Group research agenda.

Posted by Green Tech at 06:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Beyond Low Energy homes are Zero Energy Homes (ZEH).  Using technology including geothermal heating and cooling, PV panels, heat recovery ventilation and super insulation and high efficiency windows the homes in Green Acres (New Paltz NY) may be the first ZEH in the world.

" ... first zero energy (ZEH) community in the United States and possibly the world..."

" ... each home has the capacity to generate enough renewable energy to offset its annual energy needs. ..."

Via:  Green Acres New Paltz (NY)  LINK

Posted by Green Dude at 05:53 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

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Solar power for consumers has lots going for it ... renewable energy, clean power, being green ... and one near term stumbling block --- cost.  Most systems are EXPENSIVE for the initial capiital outlay.

Clarian Power Inc may be able to help lower the price with both affordable and easy to install (DIY type install) products.  Payback can be 3 - 4 years after factoring in rebates and credits.

"Sunfish™ is a plug-in solar power module that’s affordable and easy to install ... SmartBox™ technology allows homeowners to plug solar power into an existing outlet ..."

Via:  Clarian Power Inc.  LINK

Posted by Green Dude at 05:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

USC research strives to understand how light behaves in materials, which has implications for solar cell efficiency.  …

…   “Povinelli's research involves creating models of how photons interact with complex materials, in order to understand how light behaves as it moves through devices such as solar cells or optical chips and to create more efficient devices … ”   …

Via USC: Research Innovation.

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University of Central Florida’s research program drive local economic impact with solar investment leading the innovation agenda.  …

…   “UCF’s Florida Solar Energy Center led all UCF colleges and institutes with a record $21.2 million, including $10 million for a photovoltaic systems installation program that will generate electricity for at least 190 Florida schools and disaster shelters.”   …

Via University of Central Florida: Local Economy Impact.

Florida Solar Energy Center.

Posted by Green Tech at 06:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Multiple solar powered houses integrated to a micro smart grid can share power efficiently and effectively.  …

…   “The idea is to pick a neighborhood and bring in a thousand solar panels and transformers to share energy.

One transformer would be shared by five houses. ”   …

Via MIT Tech: Draper Solutions.

Draper Labs.

Posted by Green Tech at 09:57 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Applied Materials makes technical advancements in solar photovoltaics design and process manufacturing.  …

…   “all contacts are placed at the back of the cell.

Using EWT cell architecture with p-type wafers, single-crystal silicon and proven manufacturing processes, Applied has achieved 18.4% cell efficiency on large area cells in R&D testing.

In addition to providing higher conversion efficiency, back contacts lend themselves to new, automated module assembly techniques which eliminate the complex and error-prone task of stringing cells together.

Process results using this technique, called monolithic module assembly (MMA), have shown encapsulation losses of less than 1%, demonstrating the robustness of this high-efficiency, module fabrication technique. ”   …

Via Applied Materials: PV Technology Advancements.

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SunPower won several US Government contracts to install solar products for numerous agencies " ...  Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Lab (NREL), the General Services Administration (GSA), the Navy and the Air Force. ... "  These will create " ... more than 1000 local jobs during the construction ... represent a minimum of 20 megawatts (MW) of new solar projects ..."

One for the Air Force is to be the largest federal solar site in the US at Luke AFB in Glendale, Arizona.

SunPower is a leader in solar products and technology and was founded in 1988.  They have worked with various federal agancies since 1999.  They are listed on NASDAQ [SPWRA, SPWRB] and have their HQ in San Jose, California.

Via: SunPower  LINK

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Wisconsin lake house integrates cool, modern design with sustainable, LEED platinum capabilities.  The house deploys geothermal and solar photovoltaic systems.  …

…   “one of two homes in Wisconsin to gain platinum LEED certification for its green features … ”   …

Via New York Times: Modern Lake House (pic), (article).

Posted by Green Tech at 07:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Dust and dirt are significant contributors to the derating of solar panel power levels.  Researchers focus on developing coatings that repel dust from the surface of panels. The coatings use electrostatic force to clear dust from the solar panel surface.  …

…   “A dust layer of 4 grams per square meter can decrease solar power conversion by 40 percent, says Malay Mazumder, a research professor in Boston University … ”   …

Via Scientific American: Self Cleaning Solar Panels.

Relevant reference material:

• Professor Malay Mazumder.
• Boston University's Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering.
• Dust cleaning properties.
• Pilkington Self Cleaning Glass.
• Discussion of solar derating factors (PDF).

Posted by Green Tech at 10:28 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

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The 15 megawatt PV plant will be located at Luke AFB in Glendale, Arizona.  Comprised of 52,000 SunPower PV panels it will be the " ... largest solar installation on U.S. government property."

"Arizona Public Service Co. will own and operate ... hired SunPower Corp. to design and construct the solar plant ..."

" ... will ... follow the sun ... 25 percent more energy than if the panels were stationary. ..."

Via:  Arizona Public Service LINK

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Cogentrix Energy will supply power to Public Service Company of Colorado from its large scale concentrating photovoltaic solar power generation facility, which is planned for construction near Alamosa, in southern Colorado and expected to be serving customers in 2012.  …

…   “The 30,000 kilowatt solar generating project will be the largest facility of its type in the world and is expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2012.

The system will produce up to 30,000 kilowatts of solar energy for the customers of Xcel Energy, providing enough electricity for approximately 6,500 homes.

The facility will be located on approximately 225 acres of land in the San Luis Valley of Colorado immediately adjacent to the existing transmission system of Xcel Energy. ”   …

Via Cogentrix: Solar Power Project, Colorado.

Posted by Green Tech at 08:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Bethel maintenance department experiments with solar power and looks toward additional applications of renewable energy.  …

…   “To make his conventional, rechargeable-electric-battery-powered golf cart into a solar vehicle, Reimer attached solar panels to the roof and hooked them up to the batteries through a 36-volt charge controller. ”   …

Via Bethel College: Kansas Campus Maintenance Group.

Posted by Green Tech at 12:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

... "There’s a third category, and that’s where the most interesting stuff happens.

These are materials that have a narrower gap between the two bands, and they are called semiconductors. " ...

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Smith College students spend their summer SURFing (Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships) their way to a fun education that gets them into some hot water.  Smith has been sponsoring this summer research program for decades.  …

…   “This summer, several students are leading research projects that focus on Smith.

June Lukuyu ’13 is analyzing the efficiency of the solar hot water system on the roof of McConnell Hall.

Jennifer Sadler ’13 and Kaitlin Somers ’12 are charting the steps to developing a smarter power grid ”   …

Via Smith College: Research.

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Candidates for the new Dean of the Sciences college bring technical experience that includes focus on society’s challenges, including renewable energy from the sun.  …

…   “Fisher also works to improve solar cell efficiency, develop composite nanomaterials and explore environmental applications for plasma chemistry.

Her group has been a world leader in contributing new understanding of chemical mechanisms … ”   …

Via Washington State University: College of Sciences Search for New Dean.

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The mix of renewable power in the energy portfolio should be adjusted to ensure that the emissions growth does not impact the temperature of the earth.  …

…   “Has it been worth it for Spain's companies to promote renewable energy such as wind and solar power? 

Most definitely, yes, Becerril said, adding however, that renewable energy sources are not the entire solution, only a part of it. ”   …

Via Knowledge at Wharton: Supply and Sustainability.

Posted by Green Tech at 09:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

" .. goal ... to be the premier research facility in the world focused on the economic, technical, and public policy issues associated with the development and deployment of solar energy to meet global energy needs and environmental challenges."

" ... through independent research, soliciting and funding internal and external research proposals on defined topics and responding to outside requests for proposals that fit the Solar Institute's objectives.

VIA: The GW Solar Institute LINK

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SoloPower has commercialized its CIGS-based, thin-film, lightweight, flexible solar photovoltaic module, the SFX1-i module, which is part of its flexible module product line.  …

…   “launch of its debut CIGS-based, thin-film, lightweight, flexible SFX1-i Photovoltaic module. 

Select SoloPower customers currently are sampling the new SFX1-i and SFX1-i3 modules off of SoloPower's existing production line in San Jose, CA and general availability for the new modules will be in the second half of 2010. ”   …

Via SoloPower: Solar CIGS Modules.

Posted by Green Tech at 07:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Eaton Corp will design and build a solar photovoltaic power system for the New Mexico VA.  The system will be sized at over three megawatts of generating capacity and will be integrated into the existing building.  …

…   “turnkey Solar Photovoltaic (PV) System at the Albuquerque, New Mexico Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Health Care System.

The scope of the $20 million contract includes designing and installing a 3.2 megawatt PV system throughout the site, including car port and roof-mounted arrays, as well as implementing a building-integrated system to help reduce demand from the local utility grid.

This will be the largest PV system in New Mexico.”   …

Via Eaton Corporation: New Mexico VA Solar Power.

Posted by Green Tech at 11:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

President Obama discusses significant solar investment during his weekly radio address.  Abengoa and Abound will benefit from this renewable energy funding.  …

…   “Abengoa Solar, which will build one of the world's largest solar plants in Arizona, creating 1,600 construction jobs; and Abound Solar Manufacturing, which is building plants in Colorado and Indiana.”   …

Via New York Times: $2Billion for Solar Plants.

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I noticed the apples at my local Costco were packaged in plastic containers to keep the apples from bruising.  What really intrigued me was the information on the plastic containers.  Made by Peninsula Packaging of California ... they are:

- made from 70% recycled drink bottles
- made with 50% energy from the sun

" ... as much as 70 percent recycled ... are themselves recyclable ..."

" ... 10-acre photovoltaic "sun farm" generates 1.1 megawatts ... produces about one-percent of all of California's solar generated power."

Via:  PenPack  LINK

Posted by Green Dude at 05:36 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Areva is working to commercialize integrated conventional and thermal solar power at the production scale.  …

…   “Areva is developing a hybrid solar power plant concept that combines a solar thermal system with solar photovoltaic (PV) panels. ”   …

Via Forbes Energy Source: Areva says both.

Areva concentrated solar power technology.

Posted by Green Tech at 10:36 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Intermediate steps to the green future include options that harness natural gas in shale deposits, requiring undesirable harvesting techniques.  Solar and wind power may offers the best pathway to the future for us, although we have to overcome the scalability challenge.  …

…   “solar and wind are the only practical alternatives that would provide America with abundant, independent energy with few undesirable environmental and human-health effects.”   …

Via Yale: Natural Gas Role in Green Future.

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Iowa State’s Team Prisum challenges the leaders in their solar car, Anthelion, with a strong day in the eleven hundred mile race.  …

…   “The teams have one more stage in the seven-day race from Broken Arrow, Okla., to Naperville, Ill. - a 110-mile sprint to the finish line.

Sanderson said Team PrISUm will start the day with full battery packs … ”   …

Via Iowa State University: American Solar Challenge (Link).

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SunPower pushes the limits of solar cell conversion efficiency above twenty four percent.  The new solar cells are produced in its SPML Philippines facility, outside of Manila.  …

…   “it has produced a full-scale solar cell with a sunlight to electricity conversion efficiency of 24.2 percent at its manufacturing plant in the Philippines.

This is a new world record, confirmed by the U.S. Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Lab (NREL), for large area silicon wafers.

Improved cell efficiency reduces the levelized cost of energy by increasing the energy production from each wafer manufactured into a SunPower solar cell.

For the same reason, increased efficiency reduces the cost per watt and cost per kilowatt-hour for feedstock and materials, depreciation and other manufacturing expenses, installation time, land and system operations, and related maintenance.”   …

Via SunPower: New World Record (Link).

Posted by Green Tech at 08:38 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Lenoir-Rhyne University offers summer enrichment program for kids, K to 5, that enriches their minds with harnessing the energy of the sun for fun.  …

…   “They had built solar ovens using either pizza boxes or shoeboxes, aluminum foil and plastic wrap.

Inside the solar ovens were mini pizzas, nachos and s’mores. ”   …

Via Lenoir-Rhyne University: Summer Program.

Posted by Green Tech at 08:25 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Ever wonder how solar cells work?  Sun light hits a photovoltaic panel and somehow electrons start flowing. 

Check out this neat graphic that shows how suns rays are converted to power that flows from your home's outlets.

" ... Follow the path ... from the sun, through the pv panels, its conversion to AC electricity ... into the utility grid. ..."

ailed explanation of solar energy.

For a full size of the image CLICK

Via:  CoolerPlanet LINK

Posted by Green Dude at 06:24 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The map at the right - link to full size below - shows " LINK ... the current state of renewable energy in America ... a large portion of the country is still dragging their feet in adopting more environmentally friendly means of generating electricity. ..."

Pennsylvania ranks 15th
New Jersey ranks 43 rd.

Check out the stats for your state.

Click for full size map ... LINK

Via:  CoolerPlanet 

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Students will spend their summer soaking up the sun’s rays using solar photovoltaics.  …

…   “Michael Newby '12 has been awarded a summer research internship at Princeton University  … 

He will conduct solar cell synthesis and characterization research in Dr. M. Alper Sahiner's Laboratory at Seton Hall University for the NJSGC Fellowship.”   …

Via Seton Hall Univ: Internships and Fellowships (Link).

Posted by Green Tech at 08:43 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

ASU develops engineers to focus on challenges that include solar renewable energy, other mega-trends, and global problems.  …

…   “These include such objectives as engineering better medicines and more advanced tools for scientific discovery, improving urban infrastructure, providing energy from fusion, defending against threats of nuclear terrorism, securing cyberspace, making solar-energy generation more economical and developing innovations in personalized learning.”   …

Via Arizona State Univ: Engineering Education (Link).

Posted by Green Tech at 09:38 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Ferro expands its solar capabilities in the Asia Pacific region through technology lab support in China, Singapore, and Taiwan.  …

…   “Ferro's existing Technology Center in Suzhou is currently being expanded to meet the increased demand from solar cell manufacturers in China.

The new Advanced Technology Center in Taiwan is expected to be completed by the end of 2010 and will be equipped with state-of-the-art solar cell printing and firing equipment.

Both labs will be capable of building prototype solar cells and will be complemented by a complete range of solar cell characterization instruments.”   …

Via Ferro: Photovoltaic Technology Center (Link).

Posted by Green Tech at 09:23 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

DuPont opens photovoltaic applications lab at the Chestnut Run facility in Wilmington, Delaware in support of materials development for its growth push in the solar photovoltaic energy market.  …

…   “The lab will accelerate introduction of new photovoltaic materials and engineering innovations by linking DuPont science and engineering with full-size module fabrication and state-of-the-art testing capabilities.

It will provide an enhanced platform to enable innovation, technology exchanges and research collaborations among DuPont, customers, industrial partners, research institutes and universities.

The lab is designed to advance state-of-the-art solar module design, accelerate time to market in photovoltaic innovation and deliver cost-effective, high-performance solutions for the photovoltaic industry.”   …

Via Dupont: Photovoltaic Lab (Link).

Posted by Green Tech at 07:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Masdar is Abu Dhabi’s initiative to drive development of renewable energy technologies and has selected the partnership of Total and Abengoa Solar to deliver Shams 1, the world’s largest concentrated solar power plant.  …

…   “Shams 1 will be the largest concentrated solar power plant in the world, extending over an area of 2.5km²:

• capacity of approximately 100MW and a solar field
• consists of 768 parabolic trough collectors to be supplied by Abengoa Solar.

Construction is set to begin during Q3 2010 and is expected to take approximately two years.”   …

Via Masdar: Largest solar concentrator plant (Link).

Posted by Green Tech at 10:42 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Michael Gratzel wins the Millennium Technology Prize for his work on developing dye-sensitized solar cells.  …

…   “Gratzel's innovation, the dye solar cell (DSC), is a third generation photovoltaic technology.

The technology often described as artificial photosynthesis is a promising alternative to standard silicon photovoltaics.

It is made of low-cost materials and does not need an elaborate apparatus to manufacture.”   …

Via Technology Academy of Finland: Millennium Technology Prize (Link).

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Boston College researchers work on the nano scale to address the challenges of thin film solar cells and energy conversion efficiency.  The approach taken in this research on nanocoax cell architecture is to avoid the use of crystalline materials, which will result in lower-cost power with ultrathin solar films.  The team has achieved power conversion efficiency of over 8 percent, which is very encouraging.  …

…   “Physicists at Boston College found a way to resolve the thick & thin challenge through a nanoscale solar architecture based on the coaxial cable, a radio technology concept that dates back to the first trans-Atlantic communications lines laid in the mid 1800s. ”   …

Via Boston College: Nanoscale Architecture (Link).

Posted by Green Tech at 09:49 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Petra solar panels are showing up deployed on utility poles across towns in NJ.

For example, Petra teamed up with AC Electric for solar utility poles in southern New Jersey.  …

…   “Atlantic City Electric and Petra Solar announced they have teamed up to launch a demonstration project featuring solar photovoltaic (PV) systems mounted on utility poles in Cape May Point and Ocean City. Petra Solar's SunWave intelligent, pole-mounted photovoltaic solar systems are being installed by the end of April.”   …

Petra’s solution is a turnkey system for utilities to mount and play to generate power into the grid.  The system has been designed for easy installation by electric utility crews on street poles.  The Petra system does more than generate power:

…   “The systems can improve grid reliability through real-time communications between solar generators in the field and the utility control center. In addition, the Petra systems can enhance electric distribution grid reliability through a host of capabilities such as voltage and frequency monitoring and reactive power compensation.”   …

New Jersey and Petra Solar are collaborating to grow green jobs: Petra Solar was selected through a competitive process as the first company to be awarded funding under the state's new Clean Energy Manufacturing Fund (CEMF). The program is designed to support companies looking to site or materially expand a Class I renewable energy or energy-efficient product manufacturing facility in New Jersey.

PSE&G awards contract for solar power utility pole installation: Petra Solar was recently was awarded a contract by PSE&G for 200,000 SunWave units, which will be mounted on utility and street light poles to increase PSE&G's solar generation. The contract is expected to result in over 100 new jobs at Petra Solar over the coming year.

PSE&G, New Jersey's largest utility, recently received approval from New Jersey regulators for its Solar 4 All Program. PSE&G and Petra Solar entered into a contract, valued at $200 million, which requires Petra Solar to deliver approximately 200,000 SunWave units for installation by PSE&G, which plans to install the poles in its service territory of the state's six largest cities and some 300 rural and suburban communities.

Posted by Green Tech at 05:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

St. Mary’s University engineers rise to the challenge and create 1.4 kW solar panel system to demonstrate that the local event can be accomplished with a lower carbon footprint.  The engineering students are being recognized by the City of San Antonio during their Green Building awards.  …

…   “The St. Mary’s students built the solar panel system in response to the Mayor Julián Castro’s Fiesta Verde campaign, which was the Mayor’s idea to make Fiesta more green by promoting recycling efforts at most of the major Fiesta events.

Churchwell, Srinivasan and Crowell answered that call and one upped it by building a solar panel system equipped with a backup battery that lit 14 food booths for 40 hours—even with the cloudy skies and rain leading up to and during Fiesta Oyster Bake!

It took the awesome threesome just under a month to build the impressive eight solar panel system …”   …

Via St. Mary’s University: Green Building Award (Link).

Engineering students are addressing the renewable energy challenge:

Two engineering students from MIT and a business school student from Harvard pursue biofuel from microbes process.

Team of PhD chemical engineering students has developed a carbon nano-based transparent electrode that will increase the efficiency of thin film photovoltaic solar panels.

Oregon Institute of Technology student, who is majoring in Renewable Energy Engineering, receives project funding support from Portland General Electric for monitoring the performance of a wind and solar power system.

Posted by Green Tech at 09:54 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

National Semiconductor has created a chipset, branded under SolarMagic, focused on integrating intelligence into solar panel systems to drive higher energy output.  The SolarMagic power optimizer is embedded directly into solar panel junction boxes.  It will ship to customers already integrated on a board or as a standalone chipset.  …

…   “The SM3320 SolarMagic smart panel chipset is the most recent addition to National’s award-winning SolarMagic product line and provides junction box and module manufacturers with the smarts to ensure the highest efficiency and return on investment for solar system owners.

By coupling more energy production with a lower balance of systems cost, the SM3320 provides solar system owners a high-performance solution at the lowest cost per kilowatt-hour.”   …

Via National Semiconductor: SolarMagic Chipset (Link).

SolarMagic Power Optimizer Spec Sheet (PDF).

Posted by Green Tech at 04:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

ProLogis expects to understand emerging solar panel technologies and the installation requirements by testing manufacturers’ solar modules at its site in Denver, Colorado.  This supports the company’s accelerated deployment of distributed rooftop solar power generation across its footprint.  …

…   “The Test Site totals 11 kWp DC of power generation capacity from 99 modules and eight different module manufacturers: Ascent Solar, First Solar, GS-Solar, MiaSole, Solyndra, Suniva, United Solar Ovonic and Xunlight.

Already generating power, the initial configuration provides side-by-side comparisons of several module technologies, including monocrystalline, glass-on-glass thin film and membrane-applied thin film modules.

In addition, the installation contains 16 individually monitored strings, each designed to test a certain system parameter. 

As a part of the Test Site, and in partnership with HatiCon Solar, ProLogis has designed a new racking system especially for utility-scale rooftop solar installations. ”   …

Via ProLogis: Test Site in Denver (Link).

Posted by Green Tech at 07:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The US Army is getting greener.  They are beginning " ... development of a 500-megawatt solar power plant at Fort Irwin, Calif."

" ... allow ... commercial developers to use land at Fort Irwin to construct a solar power plant there between 2013 and 2022. ... will provide power to both the civilian power grid in California, and to Fort Irwin, home of the Army's National Training Center."

" ... the Army will provide to the developers, for as many as 50 years, up to 14,000 acres of land. .. Army receives rent for the land through cash or in-kind services."

" ... facility with both concentrated solar thermal and photovoltaic technology. ... will be built in phases, with a project end date expected around 2022. But Phase 1A of the project, with a completion of around 2014, is expected to provide enough power to sustain Fort Irwin."

Via:  US Army LINK

Posted by Green Dude at 08:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Academics take sabbatical to demonstrate sustainable boat and observe ecosystems on trip through the loop.  …

…   “As far as we know, this is the only hybrid diesel-solar powered canal boat in the United States, said Carlsen.  If successful, the trip may be the first circumnavigation of the North American Great Loop powered in an environmentally sustainable way.”   …

Via Penn State: Solar-powered canal boat (Link).

Posted by Green Tech at 09:49 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Course is scheduled for this June 23rd and 24th at Onondaga Community College through SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry.  …

…   “The advanced course is geared toward PV installers and engineers who have experience with PV systems. It offers participants an overview of commercial PV systems in a two-day workshop. The course is recommended for those who have taken an introductory installer course or have previous installer experience.”   …

Via SUNY: PV Installer Course.

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Victor Valley College and SolFocus celebrated the opening of the new solar power plant on the college campus.  The solar installation deploys concentrator photovoltaics (CPV) and is sized to generate one megawatt of solar power for Victor Valley College in California.  ...

...   "The Victor Valley College solar micro-generating facility is now connected to the regional electrical grid operated by Southern California Edison and will produce approximately 2.6 million kilowatt-hours annually, which is roughly 30 percent of the College’s electricity demand. "   ....

Via SolFocus: Victor Valley College Solar Power Plant (Link).

Posted by Green Tech at 08:08 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

President Obama gets to see solar technology up close and personal at the Solyndra factory in California.  Solyndra builds cylindrical solar panels that convert more of the sun rays into power.  The company benefited from investments through the Recovery Act.  …

…   “… construction of the new facility has created over 3,000 construction-related jobs and the new factory could create up to 1,000 long-term new jobs.  The Solyndra project is just one of the many ways the Administration is supporting clean energy manufacturing in America.  Today Deputy Secretary of Energy Daniel Poneman participated in a ground breaking ceremony for Nissan North America’s new advanced batter manufacturing facility in Smyrna, Tennessee. ”   …

Via The Whitehouse: Make Things.

Supply chain impact of the solar factory investment …