The White House Solar Panels: An Update
The White House actually had solar panels installed once before - in 1979 President Carter had 32 experimental panels installed to supply hot water to West Wing offices. However, for some reason, President Reagan had them taken down when he took office. (image: dailycaller.com)
As HeatingOil.com reported back in October, Secretary of Energy Steven Chu announced the Obama administration’s promise to install solar panels and a solar water heater on the White House roof by the end of Spring 2011. With Tuesday marking the first day of summer, the White House has officially missed its own deadline. In a blog post addressing the delay, the Department of Energy reassured that the project remains on track, promising to share details about the new timeline “after the competitive procurement process is completed.”
So why is this so important? Besides the obvious environmental and economic benefits, the administration’s commitment to the solar project also served to lead by example. Rhone Resch, president and CEO of the Solar Energy Industries Association, said in October, “Putting solar on the roof of the nation’s most important home is a powerful symbol calling on all Americans to rethink how we create energy.”
Bill McKibben, founder of the grassroots movement, 350,org, has been fighting for solar panels on the White House through the organization’s Put Solar On It campaign. While the group saw the administration’s initial announcement as a victory, he said the project’s inertia is “disheartening,” though the group will continue to fight for the solar panels.
The Rooftop Solar Challenge is just “one component of the Energy Department’s larger, ambitious SunShot Initiative to reduce the total installed cost of solar energy systems by about 75 percent before the end of the decade,” wrote Ramamoorthy Ramesh, director of the SunShot Initiative and Solar Energy Technologies Program. The overall goal is aimed at accelerating the growth of solar and other green manufacturing technologies in the hopes of, one imagines, ultimately reducing our dependence on foreign oil and strengthening our periled climate.
Wind Power Update: Bigger Turbine Blades Will Double Generating Capacity
Improved wind power technology could go a long way in achieving the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change goal of meeting 77% of the world’s power needs with renewable energy by the year 2050. (image: climatechangeconnection.org)
Britain’s Energy Technologies Institute is developing what will be the world’s largest wind turbine in an effort to nearly double the electricity generating capacity of today’s largest windmills, according to a recent Grist report. The new turbine will have blades approximately 295 feet long. That’s a third longer than any windmill currently in operation.
“This project is based on our earlier studies which identified that the most cost-effective size for a horizontal axis turbine is likely to be between 8 and 10 MW with significantly larger blades than scaling up current turbines would typically give,” said Dr. David Clark, CEO of the Energy Technologies Institute.
The Institute team projects that over its lifetime, just one of these gigantic turbines would create the same amount of energy as two million barrels of oil. Clarke noted that besides cutting dependence on fossil fuels and the environmental benefits, paving the way for cheaper electricity is a major motivator for the company.
“Investing in this project to develop much larger, more efficient blades is a key step for the whole industry in paving the way for more efficient turbines, which will in turn help bring the costs of generating electricity,” he added.
Ecopalooza Raises Clean Energy Awareness in Portland
Besides raising money for solar panels, The Ecopalooza Project is also donating refurbished computers to children in the Portland area. (image: kboo.fm)
The nonprofit Ecopalooza Project will be hosting its second annual 100% solar-powered Wine and Jazz benefit in downtown Portland, OR, on July 23 to raise awareness about the benefits of clean energy, the Portland Business Journal reported yesterday. Proceeds from the event will help fund solar panels for a local high school.
“With the support of The Ecopalooza Project, (Portland Public Schools) is thrilled to reach a lot of goals by powering one of our schools with solar technology…building awareness about climate change and energy issues with our students and setting an example of our community about the ease of putting solar power to work,” said Edward Bruin, facilities and asset manager for Portland Public Schools.
Organizers said the event will attempt to set a Guinness World Record for biggest day-long solar-powered concert, and will feature live performances from Grammy winner Shannon Sanders and Mo-town legend Mel Brown, with plenty of special guest appearances and an eco-friendly fashion show.
To reserve tickets, click here. To read up on some Heat USA tips for using clean energy to heat and cool your own home, click here, here, or here!
UN: Renewable Energy to Meet 77% of World’s Power Demands by 2050
The UN report states that to meet its goal, $5.1 trillion will have to be spent switching from fossil fuels to renewable energy before 2020. (image: eere-pmc.energy.gov)
The United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) recently convened in Abu Dhabi for four days to go over a special report on Renewable Energy Sources and Climate Change Mitigation, the Daily Mirror reported this week. The committee, made up of representatives from 194 countries, carefully deliberated and unanimously endorsed a 25-page summary report for policy makers outlining that by the year 2050, the world can derive 77% of the energy it uses from renewable sources.
40 authors from various developed and developing nations collaborated on the report, which features 164 scenarios that would make it possible to increase renewable energy use to 43% by 2030. The summary should inform policy makers on a range of issues relating to renewable energy, including climate change, technology and markets, sustainable development, financing, mitigation costs, and methods for advancing knowledge. If implemented in time, correctly, the scenarios could mean a savings of 560 gigatons of carbon dioxide emissions.
When it was last calculated in 2008, the world was getting just 12.9% of its power from renewable sources. In the United States, a majority of our electricity is generated by coal and more than half of us heat our homes with natural gas.
The IPCC included reaffirmation that climate change is a man-made problem, stating, “Most of the observed increase in global average temperatures since the mid twentieth century is very likely due to observed increase in anthropogenic GHG [greenhouse gas] concentrations and recent data confirms that emissions continue to grow and carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations to over 390 particles per million (ppm) or 39 per cent above preindustrial levels by 2010. It has been realized that there are many options in lowering GHG emissions from the global energy system while satisfying demand.”
Learn about what climate change could mean for your home heating/cooling system here.
Bosch Introduces Line of Residential Geothermal Heat Pumps for US Market
Heat pumps use the earth's natural constant temperatures to keep homes comfortable throughout the seasons. (image: Bosch/PR Newswire.com)
Bosch Thermotechnology North America announced today that its new line of Energy Star-approved, high efficiency residential geothermal heat pumps is ready for the American marketplace, company representatives announced today.
“From our geothermal heat pumps to condensing tankless water heaters and solar thermal water heating technology, a full suite of high efficiency heating, cooling and water heating products can now be found under the Bosch umbrella,” said Ervin Cash, Bosch President and CEO. “These offerings represent substantial cost savings for the consumer.”
Residential geothermal energy has been somewhat slow to catch on in the United States because of the steep startup installation costs. However, as consumers become more aware of the benefits, the industry is expected to grow. Geothermal heat pumps use the earth’s constant temperatures to keep homes cool in the summer and warm in the winter. They’re a great alternative energy choice because they don’t rely on sun or wind, which can sometimes be in short supply. Plus, they have a very high consumer satisfaction rating, since startup expenses are almost always recouped (through lowered utility bills) relatively quickly.
Bosch administrator said the new products demonstrate the company’s ongoing commitment to expanding geothermal technology and green energy usage in homes and businesses, all while boosting the home HVAC industry. Each Bosch heat pump comes with a 10-year parts and labor warranty, and since they meet Energy Star efficiency standards, may be eligible for federal rebates or tax credits. The Bosch Group has been a leading global supplier of technology and services for over a decade, though the new line will be manufactured domestically in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Information on other energy efficient Bosch home heating and cooling equipment is available on the company’s website.
Solar and Energy Efficiency Fair Kicks Off in California
A zero-emissions truck sets up shop at San Jose's Green Vision Clean Energy press conference. (image: District 1-City of San Jose via flickr.com)
This Saturday, San Jose will host a Solar and Energy Efficiency Fair, the country’s first large-scale outdoor demonstration of solar, wind, electric vehicle, and energy efficiency installations, according to a release from city officials. This event will offer the public a unique chance to tour new renewable and efficient energy technology while chatting with industry experts. Participants can speak directly with vendors and suppliers about home energy issues like solar installations, rebates for efficient products, and discounts on home energy efficiency audits. Representatives from Armageddon Energy, Chromasun, Nanosolar, Fresco, Real Goods Solar, Burnham Energy, Sunlink, Sunpower, Winspire Energy, and more are expected to attend.
Climatically, San Jose is perfect for rooftop solar panel installation! (image: destination360.com)
The event will be held from 10am – 3pm at the Green Vision Clean Energy Showcase, a space funded by the Department of Energy. The venue holds a new off-grid, zero-energy Eco-House that participants are welcome to explore. The Fair’s timing is right on – last week California Governor Jerry Brown signed a law that makes it mandatory for the state to get at least 33% of its electricity from renewable energy sources by 2020.
A quick tidbit about the “Capital of Silicon Valley:” San Jose is the tenth largest city in the United States, and leaders and residents have established a series of goals they hope will help them hit their target of cutting the community’s total energy usage in half by 2022.
BBB: If You’re Switching to Solar Energy, Be Informed
Ask your contractor to verify his/her credentials before starting any home energy project. (image: forcedgreen.com)
The Better Business Bureau recently advised homeowners looking to upgrade their home heating and cooling systems to solar energy to make informed decisions about equipment and contractors, the Alexandria Echo Press reported. Spring is a popular time for installation, construction, and home improvement projects, so the BBB is reminding consumers to thoroughly research all aspects of an upgrade before investing in solar.
With more consumers looking to make their homes eco-friendly, scammers and fraudulent contractors have found new opportunities to take advantage of those who haven’t done their homework. As with the all-too-common air duct cleaning scams, these predators advertise exceptionally low installation prices and then don’t do the job they were paid to do.
And, since solar energy equipment and panels can cost anywhere between $5,000 and $60,000, you definitely want to get your money’s worth.
“As with any kind of home improvement contractor, consumers need to be cautious of installers that promise too-good-to-be-true offers,” said Dana Badgerow, president and CEO of the Better Business Bureau of Minnesota and North Dakota. “It pays to look beyond the lowest bid when selecting a contractor.”
In 2002, the Earth absorbed 3,850,000 exajoules of solar energy – according to Wikipedia, that’s more energy in one hour than the entire world used in one year. (image: solarpowerninja.com)
Here’s what the BBB recommends:
• First, make sure solar is right for you. Conduct a home energy audit to gauge how much you’d benefit from switching. Set a budget, and have a professional ensure your roof is in good condition.
• Get to know how solar energy works! Educating yourself on the small details, like how the south-facing side of your house receives the most sun, will help you maximize system efficiency and know when something is wrong.
• Converting your system to renewable energy will probably score you a substantial rebate, but research which products qualify and how much money you’ll save. The Department of Energy’s map will show you what federal incentives are available in your area.
• Finally, verify that your contractor is certified. Check for consumer reviews for service providers and products. The solar industry has developed some amazing and efficient equipment! Make sure you’re getting the good stuff.
Californians to Heat and Power Homes with 33% Renewable Energy by 2020
Governor Brown and Secretary Chu at a SunPower/Flextronics plant announcing California's more aggressive plan for renewable energy. (image: blogs.kqed.org)
California Governor Jerry Brown signed a law earlier this week that will make it mandatory for the state to get at least 33% of its electricity from renewable energy sources by the year 2020, the Los Angeles Times reported. The law modifies the previous goal of 20% and was praised by U.S. energy secretary Steven Chu, who said the initiative should serve as a model for other states.
Brown made the announcement at a SunPower/Flextronics manufacturing plant that makes photovoltaic solar panels. He touched on several well known benefits of renewable energy, including reduced carbon emissions and dependency on foreign fuel. Energy sources that reduce air pollution are particularly appealing in Los Angeles, notorious for its smog.
“This is a really great opportunity and a great challenge,” Brown said. “We can invent and create our way to sustainability.”
Environmental lobbyists and advocates in attendance called the new law a “huge victory” for the environment. Others celebrated the expectation that the new push for alternative energy projects could create 100,000 jobs around the state, according to an estimate based on research from the Center for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Technologies.
“The new law will stimulate the economy and improve the environment, while protecting ratepayers from excessive costs,” said Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto).
Secretary Chu took the opportunity to announce a tentative federal plan for $1.2 billion in loan guarantees for solar energy projects in the area, which could potentially meet the electricity needs of 60,000 homes. States across the country have been passing more eco-friendly energy legislation, as the Obama administration continues to encourage the development and use of alternatives to fossil fuels.
Wild Center Heating System Wins National Renewable Energy Award
The Wild Center's new 1.7 million BTU boiler unit is stored in the basement next to the existing supplemental propane boiler. (image: renewableenergyworld.com)
The Wild Center, in Tupper, NY, devised a renewable energy heating system that has just been named Bioenergy Project of the Year for Excellence in Renewable Energy at this year’s Renewable Energy World Conference and Expo in Florida, the Adirondack Daily Enterprise reported earlier this week.
The Wild Center is a science-based, not-for-profit organization located in the center of the Adirondacks that seeks to improve the way humans interact and coexist with the natural world through experiential programs and exhibits.
Their innovative new heating system, commissioned by a $350,000 contract award from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, combines a solar hot water system with an efficient wood pellet boiler. Since operation began six months ago, the new system has already cut polluting emissions by 45%. As with other heating equipment inventions we’ve seen lately, the system has cut utility costs by using fuel more efficiently.
“The main boiler was manufactured in upstate New York, Clarkson University is monitoring the entire system, our wood pellets come from Massena, the installers are local businesses, and most of all we were able to switch from using expensive imported fuel to a super-efficient renewable source for out heat,” said Wild Center executive director Stephanie Ratcliffe. “We want to play a part in helping the Adirondack region find a new way to use energy, which will end up helping our economy.”
The Wild Center system is definitely too large to be considered a viable option for residential heating (unless you live in a huge house or a castle of some kind), but it does indicate a trend in heating equipment production emphasizing the use of more local, eco-friendly resources. Here’s a video recorded last year explaining more completely how the system works:
Utah Steps Up Geothermal Power Production
A geothermal power plant in Utah, which has five other geothermal projects nearly ready to go. (image: ecofriendly.com)
A report released this week by the Geothermal Energy Association cited Utah as one major reason the United States ranks number one worldwide in geothermal energy production, according to the Deseret News.
Utah has amped up efforts to increase geothermal energy output, after receiving $3.8 million in federal stimulus money for research, demonstration and development projects.
Several states have plans in the works, but only nine are currently producing geothermal electric power. All nine combined are creating 3,102 megawatts, about enough electricity to supply two million households, with Utah accounting for 42 megawatts. It doesn’t seem like much, but Utah also has 12 other geothermal projects in development, including a Navy Geothermal Program at Hill Air Force Base and a potential production site called Drum Mountain.
“The geothermal industry has an exciting year ahead, as there are numerous projects switching from the development phases to full-fledged geothermal power plants,” remarked Karl Gawell, executive director of the Geothermal Energy Association.
Across the country, 146 geothermal projects in various stages of development have scientists hopeful about their potential to help alleviate America’s energy problems.
