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Niagara Mohawk Offers Customers Choice of Green Power
Renewable energy sources- such as wind, solar, biomass and low-impact hydroelectric- offer two major benefits for people and the planet they share. First, they can be used to provide electricity with little or no pollution. Second- unlike the fossil fuels currently burned to generate most of the world's electricity, they can't be used up. See the entire article at: http://www.niagramohawk.com/house/homenews/non_html/sep2002.pdf - size 95,837 bytes - 9/4/02 12:21:36 PM GMT. Source: Niagara Mohawk Release 9/2/2002.
Green Power Customers Growing in Number
The number of retail power customers for so-called "green power" more than tripled in the Northwest last year, according to the Renewable Northwest Project's annual survey of Northwest utilities. The Northwest is selling about 162 million kilowatts of green power per year-or enough to power 162,000 homes in the Northwest-more than tripling last year's 47 million kilowatts, according to the study by the Portland-based advocacy group.
In the Northwest there are 23 utilities offering customers a choice of purchasing power generated from an environmentally friendly source-like wind, solar, landfill gas or low-impact hydroelectric power. The increase can be attributed mainly to new legislation in Washington and Oregon that requires utilities to offer some form of green power to customers, as well as accompanying marketing programs financed by utilities. "Northwest customers are demonstrating their support for renewable energy by signing up for green power in increasing numbers," said director Rachel Shimshak in announcing the Portland group's findings last month. In Washington, the state's largest utility, Bellevue-based Puget Sound Energy, sold the most green power, 326,000 kilowatts a month for $6,250 in monthly revenue. Avista Utilities sold 275,000 kilowatts at $5,000 a month. Numbers from Seattle City Light were not available. Tacoma Power sold an estimated 208,000 kilowatts for $3,131 in monthly revenue from green power. Source: Steve Ernst Puget Sound Business Journal 10/7/2002.
Green Power Leaders Named as New Deals Announced
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced its second-annual Green Power Leadership Awards last week. Kinko's, Inc. and the City of Chicago were both named Green Power Partners of the Year for their significant purchases of electricity from renewable energy sources. The EPA also presented awards to Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.; the State of New Jersey; Uinta Brewing Company; Pennsylvania State University; and the University of Pennsylvania for their purchases of green power. In addition, Johnson & Johnson; the County of Alameda, California; and Local 332 of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers were honored for their projects to generate renewable power at their facilities. See the EPA Green Power awards at: http://www.epa.gov/greenpower/gpleadership/gpleadership.htm. Source: EREN Network News 10/9/2002.
For more information: http://www.eren.doe.gov/greenpower/ or http://www.nwlink.com/~van/greenlnk.html
IAS Signs Deal to License its New Breakthrough Turbine to Hydrogen Renewable Energy
International Automated Systems, Inc. (IAUS.OB) ["IAS"] announced today that it has signed an agreement to license its patent-pending "bladeless" Propulsion Turbine for the State of Hawaii to The Hydrogen Renewable Energy Enterprise, LLC (THREE). THREE is a Hawaiian-based company that has been actively involved in Hawaii's pioneering energy legislation, which encourages use of the islands' renewable energy. THREE's president, Jack Dean who has spent more than 35 years in the energy industry, is well known in connection with renewable energy production and an author and co-author of several publications covering subjects ranging from steam turbine principles and water induction, to power plant principles for plant operators and engineers. IAS's new Propulsion Turbine is a breakthrough technology, which some professionals believe will revolutionize electrical power generation, and hydrogen fuel production for automobiles and fuel cells. Tests have been conducted by IAS at a University laboratory, at various power-plant facilities, and at its own laboratory during the past eighteen months. Conservative numbers demonstrate remarkable advantages in areas of cost, maintenance, size, efficiency and versatility over today's expensive conventional turbine under the same conditions. IAS's advantages will likely make a significant global impact by economically producing power using renewable energy such as solar thermal and geothermal. Utilizing these free, and practically unlimited sources of energy has previously been cost prohibitive. IAS's new breakthrough technology opens vast new doors in the renewable energy market. With such advancements, renewable resources can be used to economically produce electricity, heat, and cold air for homes and businesses, or clean hydrogen fuel for automobiles and fuel cells. The turbine is small enough for many homes and businesses to house their own mini power plant.
Power industry experts predict that, based upon a 2-3% per annum increase over the next 10-20 years, more than $3 trillion in present dollars (not accounting for inflation) will be needed to build plants sufficient to meet the world's growing needs. This $3 trillion does not include the cost of transmission and distribution networks. "There are two unique features that give this turbine an unmatched versatility: its physical construction and its use of multiple-phase fluid," said Dean. "Use of this new Propulsion Turbine technology will offer many cost and energy saving opportunities for the people of Hawaii, and thus, move Hawaii closer to a goal of energy self-sufficiency based upon renewable energy and hydrogen." "We are very pleased to have finalized a relationship with THREE," said Neldon Johnson, president and CEO of International Automated Systems, Inc. "Jack Dean has a valuable and seasoned background in the power industry. From his many years of experience and study, he has an in-depth knowledge of steam turbine principles, power plant design and operations, and economics of the power industry. We look forward to working with THREE." For more information on International Automated Systems, Inc. see: http://www.iaus.com Source: Solar and Renewable Energy Outlook 9/1/2002.
Dedications Planned for Wind Farm Using GE Turbines
A dedication will be held Wednesday for a wind farm near Syracuse that uses wind turbines manufactured by a unit of GE Power Systems. The collection of 20 wind turbines, each of them 300 feet tall, is the largest in the eastern United States, according to officials with the Fenner Wind Power Facility. The facility has been in operation since last November. The wind farm is located near the town of Fenner, 20 miles east of Syracuse, and is operated by Canastota Windpower, which is owned by CHI Energy Inc. of Stamford, Conn., and Atlantic Renewable Energy Corp. of Richmond, Va. Niagara Mohawk Power Corp. is the interconnecting facility which connects the facility to New York's electrical grid. Each of the turbines has a typical output of 1.5 megawatts, enough to power 400 homes. The wind turbines were made by GE Wind Energy, which has its operations in Tehachapi, Calif. GE Wind Energy is a unit of GE Power Systems, based in Atlanta, Ga. Under deregulation, consumers throughout New York are able to purchase wind power by choosing Fenner as their energy service company through their utility company. The cost is slightly higher than with traditional energy sources, according to Community Energy, which markets power from the wind farm. Source: BizJournals.com 10/9/2002.
BP, Volkswagen Join on Solar Roofs Project
German automaker Volkswagen (VW) recently announced it has signed a cooperation agreement with BP Solar to install photovoltaic (PV) solar panels on the roofs of its new and existing dealerships. The automaker said the project is part of an effort to "demonstrate a practical application of solar power" and "encourage broader interest in its use." "The project highlights the economic and ecological use of photovoltaic components as a modern and elegant building material," said BP Solar architect Mechthild Winking. VW said the Leonhardt Group, a Volkswagen building consultant, will also be involved in the project, which is slated to install at least 50 rooftop PV arrays by the end of the year. Contact: Mechthild Winking, BP Solar, phone +49-40-2361-1232. Source: EIN Renewable Energy Today 9/18/2002.
Conference Recharges Interest in Wind
Wind and sun dominate in Kansas. So it is only natural for 250 people to travel from 23 states to discuss alternative energy sources in an area where they are abundant. The group is in Lawrence to exchange ideas on renewable energy sources and to discuss ways to use them to supply energy in Kansas. The 2002 Kansas Wind Energy Conference opened Tuesday at the Holiday Inn Holidome and continues today. Joan Holmes, of Lawrence, said she was attending the conference because her family has been interested in wind energy for decades. She owns about 800 acres of land in Cheyenne County, Colo., and in Wallace County in western Kansas, she said. "Renewable energy is a great resource," Holmes said. "I'm all for this." Solar energy was promoted as Kansas State University students displayed the Catalyst, a solar-powered race car, outside the Holidome. "It's another way to show off a different type of energy," said Mike Blouin, a K-State senior in electrical engineering. "It gives people an idea of what other resources are out there."
The Catalyst has competed in solar challenges across the country, including a race from Chicago to Los Angeles, said Jay M. Nightingale, president of the race car team and a K-State junior majoring in mechanical engineering. The car can reach speeds up to 73 mph but races at 45 to 50 mph. "It's amazing, the interest in alternative energy right now," said Jeff Wagaman, of the Kansas Corporation Commission, which sponsored the third annual conference. The first day of the conference included a meeting of the Kansas Renewable Energy Group. During the meeting, Rep. Tom Sloan, R- Lawrence, announced the new members of the State Energy Resources Coordination Council appointed by Gov. Bill Graves. The council's purpose is to look at the state's role as an energy supplier, Sloan said. Also noted during the meeting was the fact Kansas was named the top state for potential wind resources in a new study recently published by the U.S. Public Interest Research Group. "What we're looking at is how to address the economy and the well- being of the state," Sloan said about the conference. Afternoon sessions included information on small wind and solar systems. Small wind systems are found on farms or residences and include a wind turbine on top of a tower, according to the commission's energy programs division. The turbines have two or three rotating blades and a generator or alternator mounted on a frame with a tail. When the wind blows, it turns the blades, creating electricity. Solar systems use photovoltaic cells to convert energy form the sun directly into electricity, commission information said. Today's sessions focus on commercial wind farm development in the state. J. R. Mendoza can be reached at (785) 295-1186 or jmendoza@cjonline.com. Source: Topeka Capital Journal 10/3/2002.
Reno Company Obtains Rights to Breakthrough Geothermal Power Plant Technology
Reno, NV - Advanced Thermal Systems LLC, an energy technology company, has obtained the exclusive U.S. rights to a breakthrough technology resulting in a 20 percent reduction in geothermal power plant construction costs and a 20 percent increase in efficiency compared to traditional geothermal power plants. The company will make the cost-efficient system for producing geothermal power available nationwide through its affiliates and under joint ventures and sub-licenses with other energy companies. An operating affiliate of Advanced Thermal Systems initially will incorporate the Kalina Cycle technology in a new 40 MW geothermal plant the company will construct at the Steamboat Geothermal Energy Park, nine miles south of Reno, Nevada. The Steamboat IV plant will be operational in late 2003. "This plant will be a model for cost-efficient production of geothermal power, enhancing the ability of geothermal power plants to provide clean, renewable and affordable energy while building energy independence for America," said Ron Burch, president of Advanced Thermal Systems, LLC of Reno.
The principals of Advanced Thermal Systems, through affiliated companies, have developed, owned and operated geothermal power plants since 1986. These companies have been innovators in the geothermal industry in advancing power plant and geothermal field production technology. The Steamboat IV plant, an air-cooled binary geothermal system, will employ the patented Kalina Cycle technology, which involves a closed loop ammonia-water "working fluid" that is vaporized by the geothermal heat to drive electricity-producing turbine generators. This patented technology, developed by Exergy, Inc. of Hayward, California, allows for more efficient energy generation through variable vaporization of the working fluid. Exergy, Inc. holds 253 world-wide patents for this technology. Four Kalina Cycle power plants have been built to date with over 30,000 hours of operation. "Advanced Thermal Systems' strong project development and plant operation skills will accelerate the use of our technology in both green field projects and upgrades to existing geothermal power plants in the Americas," said Mark Mirolli, president of Exergy, Inc. Advanced Thermal Systems' operating affiliate has entered into a letter of intent with a consortium consisting of Exergy, Inc. and Siemens Demag Delaval Turbomachinery, Inc., a leading worldwide engineering company that specializes in construction of environmentally friendly power plants, for the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contract for the Steamboat IV power plant. The letter of intent contains a fixed price for the total construction cost of the power plant and includes guarantees for performance and delivery as well as liquidated damages. "With the performance guarantees provided by the Siemens/Exergy consortium, Steamboat IV will be able to produce power that is competitive with a utility's least-cost options for new baseload generation," Burch said. Advanced Thermal Systems' exclusive licensing rights for the U.S. are expandable to include most of the Western Hemisphere once basic performance standards have been met. Source: ATS Release 10/29/2001.
Powering the South On Clean Energy
According to George Sterzinger, of the Renewable Energy Policy Project (REPP), a report prepared by his staff, Powering the South, shows that a clean generation mix could meet the region's power demand and replace coal plants built before 1960. The region includes Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee. Concerning biomass energy sources, the study assumes that three types of feedstocks are available for electricity generation: Mill and urban wood wastes such as primary mill residues, yard trimmings and construction wastes; Herbaceous crops such as switchgrass; and Agricultural residues which include "residual matter" that can be gathered from existing farms without affecting crop production. While energy production potential from farm animal wastes was not included in the Powering the South model, it's estimated by others that the six-state region could generate between approximately one million MWh and 2.5 million MWh of electricity annually from hog and poultry manure resources. Based in Washington, DC, REPP seeks to define growth strategies for renewables that "respond to competitive energy markets and environmental needs... The organization offers a platform from which experts in the field can examine issues of medium-to long- term importance to policy makers, green energy entrepreneurs and environmental advocates." Its publications can be reviewed via its website: http://www.repp.org or contact REPP at (202) 293-2898. Source: J.G. Press Inc. Sep 2002 via BiaCycle 10/3/2002.
California Deploys Largest State-Owned Solar Electric Rooftop - 470 kW System
The California Department of General Services (DGS) and the Franchise Tax Board (FTB) today unveiled the largest state-owned solar electric rooftop installation in California at the FTB's headquarters in Sacramento. The 470 kW solar system - generating enough electricity to power the equivalent of more than 400 homes - will supply the Franchise Tax Board with nearly half of its energy needs, reducing expensive electricity purchases from the grid during peak demand periods. The system, which covers 50,000 square-feet of roof area, was designed, manufactured, and installed by PowerLight Corporation of Berkeley, California. "By deploying clean, renewable energy systems at state buildings, this Administration is preserving natural resources and contributing to the state's energy solution," said Aileen Adams, Secretary of the State and Consumer Services Agency (SCSA). "This installation demonstrates that solar-generated electricity is reliable, affordable, and ready to meet mainstream energy needs."
The new solar electric system at the Franchise Tax Board headquarters will reduce the facility's consumption of grid-generated electricity during the day - when electricity is in greatest demand and most expensive. By not relying on typical generation methods, this solar-powered installation is anticipated to reduce emissions of nitrogen oxides by more than 9,000 pounds and carbon dioxide by more than 11,000 tons during its 25-year lifespan. These emissions reductions are equivalent to planting approximately 800,000 trees, removing 4,000 cars from the roadways, or not driving 50 million miles. "The DGS is committed to reducing energy use and costs at state facilities. Onsite solar electric generation is a major component in helping us meet that goal," added DGS Interim Director Clothilde Hewlett. "This project comes on the heels of our East End Complex project in Sacramento, which features some 5,000 solar panels to help off-set the electrical demand there."
The SCSA and the DGS have promoted sustainable building and environmental awareness through the implementation of Governor Gray Davis' sustainable building Executive Order (D-16-00), management of the state's energy conservation efforts, and support of renewable energy, recycled content, and pollution control programs. The DGS builds and maintains many of the state's largest buildings, as well as the state's automobile fleet. "California's objective is to make renewable generation an even larger part of our long-term energy picture," noted Gerald H. Goldberg, executive officer, California Franchise Tax Board. "As an agency committed to community improvement, we're proud that the FTB can provide responsible leadership for other governmental, commercial, and residential energy users throughout the state." "Federal, state and local agencies are implementing energy efficient technologies to improve building performance and protect our environment," said PowerLight President Daniel Shugar. "Solar photovoltaics and other renewables are a reliable, cost effective way for this country to meet its energy needs while minimizing harmful emissions."
"It's rewarding to be working with the State of California on a project that saves taxpayers' money and is environmentally friendly. We applaud the DGS and FTB for demonstrating true civic leadership by installing solar electric generation in Sacramento," concluded Shugar.
The Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) and State of California shared in the funding of this solar electric system, which was installed in record time of less than six weeks. SMUD helps fund solar projects to promote renewable energy resources, and to provide a diverse energy mix to its customers who want a cleaner environment. "Projects like this one benefit far more people than just those who work in this building," said SMUD Director Susan Patterson. "The more solar electric systems we are able to install, the less expensive they become and as a community, the less dependent we will be on conventional energy sources." In addition to this photovoltaic system, the FTB and the DGS are planning to commission an expansion of the existing solar array, as well as to install an additional photovoltaic system on a nearby Franchise Tax Board facility currently under construction in Sacramento. Source: DGS Release 9/15/2002
Rooftop Solar System Unveiled in New York City
New York City's largest commercial rooftop solar power system was unveiled today. The solar panel array, which is located on the roof of two Greenpoint Manufacturing and Design Center (GMDC) buildings in the Greenpoint neighborhood of Brooklyn, transforms sunlight into electricity, generating clean electrical power. The total solar system includes a 59 kilowatt (kW) array at GMDC's Humboldt Street location and a 56 kW array that will be operational at GMDC's Manhattan Avenue building within the next several months. GMDC, Clean Air Communities, the New York State Energy Research & Development Authority (NYSERDA), Con Edison, and PowerLight Corporation joined with U.S. Congresswoman Nydia Velazquez and other dignitaries to launch the project today.
"This is an important event for our community," said Congresswoman Nydia Velazquez, who represents Greenpoint. "Solar power reduces emissions from fossil fuel burning power plants where children's asthma and other respiratory ailments are high. It introduces innovative technology for environmental justice by reducing the number of power plants in our community. And, it demonstrates renewable energy sources to move us away from dependence on foreign fuel sources. I am very excited about the future that I see here!" The $900,000 system was built and installed by PowerLight Corporation of Berkeley, California, using state of the art solar technology and zinc bromide batteries. The photovoltaic panels and advanced battery will work as a solar energy system to generate and store electricity in coordination with Con Edison's network system.
The 115 kilowatt solar power system covers 11,500 square feet of roof area and reduces the peak electricity demand on New York's power grid while improving local air quality. When fully powered, the solar system will generate the equivalent energy to light 100 homes. The system will avoid thousands of tons of harmful emissions that contribute to fine particle pollution, smog, global warming, acid rain and haze. Fine airborne particles and soot cause thousands of premature deaths and asthma attacks in New York each year. To the extent the system displaces fossil fuel electricity, it will eliminate 1,456 tons of carbon dioxide emissions over its 25 year lifetime - a reduction equivalent to planting 16 acres of trees. "This project demonstrates that preserving urban manufacturing can be compatible with community revitalization and environmental responsibility," said David Sweeny, GMDC's CEO. "We're particularly excited that we can do this in Greenpoint, which has historically been home to some of the City's worst environmental problems." GMDC is a non-profit organization that rehabilitates industrial buildings and focuses on creating and maintaining high quality, blue collar jobs for low income New Yorkers. Funding for the project is provided through a joint partnership of NYSERDA, GMDC and a Clean Air Communities grant stemming from Con Edison. "Governor George Pataki's mandate to NYSERDA is clear: Improve New York's energy efficiency, while protecting our environment and solidifying our state's economic base," said NYSERDA president William Flynn. "This project addresses all three of those goals, and NYSERDA has contributed $300,000 to see it become a reality." Source: ENS 10/8/2002.
Proposed Palmdale, California Windmill Won't Harm Environment, Study Says
A 250-foot-tall electricity-generating wind turbine proposed at Lake Palmdale will not have a significant effect on the environment, Palmdale Water District officials said. That was the conclusion of a study commissioned by the district, officials said. "The results are very promising," said Palmdale Water District General Manager Dennis LaMoreaux. "We are excited by the prospect of moving forward with the wind turbine project." The wind turbine -- capable at full wind speed of generating 1,000 kilowatts, enough for 300 homes -- will help power the district's water treatment plant and booster pump facility. It was originally proposed as about 200 feet tall and 660 kilowatts, and officials said it will likely end up to be between 660 and 1,000 kilowatts. Construction and installation are expected to be completed in February 2003. The public can view a report on the initial study at the district office, 2029 E. Ave. Q, Palmdale.
District officials said they have prepared a document known as a "mitigated negative declaration," meaning that the project potentially could have an environmental impact but that it will be constructed in such a way that the impacts will be insignificant. The document will be available for public review through Nov. 5. People can submit comments in writing to Matthew Knudson, engineering supervisor, by Nov. 5. Knudson can also be reached via phone at (661) 947-4111, Ext. 118. The giant windmill idea is one of several moves the water district has taken since California's 2001 energy crisis. Others included reactivating a small hydroelectric generator at the reservoir and moving to install photovoltaic cells to help power its maintenance shop using solar energy. A computer-manipulated photograph distributed by water officials shows a white, three-bladed turbine on a thick white column, towering over trees at the reservoir's northeast corner. The cost is estimated to be around $1.2 million. Renewable-energy incentives offered by state government though Edison should cover about half that cost, officials said. Lower electricity bills should pay for the turbine in about six years, they said.
Because of infrequent wind, the turbine will be putting out full power only 17 percent of the time. District consultant Black & Veatch reported that wind was much stronger and steadier on Sierra Pelona ridge, just west of the Antelope Valley Freeway, where the district owns 60 acres. But there would need to be several windmills there to be cost-effective, and it would also mean running power lines to them. If the district officials decide to build the turbine, they must have their building permits by Dec. 31 to take advantage of legislation that lets the electricity it produces be credited against its Southern California Edison bill. To see more of the Daily News, or to subscribe to the newspaper, go to http://www.dailynews.com. Source: 2002, Daily News, Los Angeles. Distributed by Knight Ridder/Tribune Business News via PowerMarketers.com 10/8/2002.
For more information on Renewable Resources go to: http://www.eren.doe.gov/repis/
Geothermal Industry Contacts and Links
Seeking information on geothermal energy? Need research and development information? Contact the Geothermal Resource Council at: http://www.geothermal.org. See a listing of geothermal industry web sites at: http://www.geothermal.org/links.html. Source: GRC Bulletin 9/2002.
Renewable Resource Data Center
Welcome to the Renewable Resource Data Center (RReDC). The RReDC is supported by the National Center for Photovoltaics (NCPV) and managed by the Department of Energy's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy http://www.eren.doe.gov/eere/. The RreDC is maintained by the Distributed Energy Resources Center of the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. The RReDC provides information on several types of renewable energy resources in the United States, in the form of publications, data, and maps. An extensive dictionary of renewable energy related terms is also provided. The News section announces new products on the RReDC.
How to Size a Solar Power System
NREL's newest fact sheet is "How to Size a Grid Connected Solar Electric System." See the fact sheet at: http://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy02osti/31688.pdf. Source: IREC News 10/4/2002.
Potomac Regional Solar Energy Association Supports Solar Certification Program
The Board of Directors of the Potomac Region Solar Energy Association (PRSEA), a chapter of ASES, expresses its wholehearted support of the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioner's (NABCEP) effort to establish a voluntary, nationwide solar practitioner certification program. For more information contact the Potomac Region Solar Energy Association, or see the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioner's information at: http://www.irecusa.org/articles/show.php4?recid=1022486628&a_uid=2f7a31. Source: IREC News 10/4/2002.
Biomass Industries Gather for Bioenergy 2002
Bioenergy 2002, the 10th Biennial Bioenergy Conference, was recently held in Boise, Idaho. The conference, which highlighted many recent advances in biomass technologies, attracted more than 500 people from over 30 countries. More than 200 presentations were given on various topics including:
Highlights from research presented at Bioenergy 2002 included:
A new program developed by the U.S. Department of Energy, Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP) was also discussed at the conference. The Biomass and Alternative Methane Fuels (BAMF) program is designed to increase use of biomass in federal facilities. The Super Energy Savings Performance Contract (Super ESPC) encourages federal agencies worldwide to take on energy generation and savings projects that have one or more biomass technologies - energy from wood wastes, crops, animal wastes, and landfill gas waste - as a core component.
The conference also included a citizen's night, during which all residents of Boise were invited to visit exhibits and poster presentations to learn more about the energy security and environmental benefits of biomass technologies. For additional information on the conference, or to purchase a copy of the proceedings, visit http://www.bioenergy2002.org. The conference was hosted by the Pacific Regional Biomass Energy Program and sponsored by the University of Idaho, J.R. Simplot, Inc., National Park Service, Pacific Biodiesel, New Uses Council, BBI International, BioCycle - The JG Press, Inc. and the U.S. Department of Energy, Bioenergy Program. Source: October 2002 Biobased Fuels, Power and Products Newsletter.
For more information on Educational Resources go to: http://www.thegateway.org
CU Boulder Wins Solar Decathalon on National Mall
Student teams from 13 universities and one college came to the National Mall last week to catch a few rays and compete in the first ever Solar Decathlon, a contest to design, build and operate an attractive house powered only by the sun. Standing in front of the winning home on Saturday, Assistant Secretary of Energy David Garman announced the University of Colorado, Boulder as winner of the 10 day competition. While other schools claimed first place in some of the 10 distinct contests that made up the decathlon, a sophisticated energy distribution system gave University of Colorado team members a superior ability to monitor and adjust their power use, leading them to score highest overall and triumph in the end. "The real decisive factor was that their engineering systems were so good," said George Douglas, a spokesman for the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, which oversaw the event. "They were able to tweak things as they went along." An estimated 50,000 people visited the solar village during the open house sessions a week ago and crowds were no smaller this past weekend.
The judges had 32 data points installed in various parts of each home to measure the energy use of systems such as refrigeration and air conditioning. Over the course of the week, the teams faced challenges that simulated the power demands of a normal house. One such test on Wednesday required each group to run hot water in their house at 110 degrees for 10 minutes to imitate a typical hot shower. Other tasks included doing laundry and maintaining stable indoor temperatures. "We made it fair," said Douglas. "They even had to wash and dry towels - and we gave them the towels." Although the Solar Decathlon outlined rules that prohibited teams from building houses larger than 800 square feet, the range of original gadgetry and imaginative material used within each home suggested that the competition placed no boundaries on innovation. Visitors inside the University of Virginia's house got a glimpse of the "smart wall." Situated in the interior, directly facing the front entrance, the wall contains 341 light emitting diodes that provide a visual alert to the inhabitants by glowing red when the house gets too warm and loses its energy balance. A parabolic dish on the roof of the house tracks the sun according to a computer program that uses latitude and longitude information. The dish focuses the sun's beams it captures onto an elliptical mirror that sends the light down a fiber optic cable that ends in "solar luminaires," transparent baton-like fixtures that hang vertically and diffuse the brightness indoors.
University of Virginia (UV) achieved high points for architectural design, but making a home that was both energy efficient and attractive proved challenging. "It became clear to the students that sustainable design is not the only thing to be thinking about, but it's the only thing that you can't forget," said John Quale, an assistant professor of architecture at UV who served as an advisor to the school's team. Fierce competition among the schools prompted Auburn University to build their house inside so that information about its design would not be leaked to their opponents. While many were impressed by the original student inventions, people touring the houses also appreciated the already available solar technology that all the homes shared in common. "I had seen these panels on people's roofs, but I never knew how they worked," said Harriet Greenberg, a visitor from Silver Springs, Maryland.
The line to enter the winning house was over 30 people long Saturday afternoon, with similar waits outside all the other homes in the temporary solar village. Inside the University of Colorado's structure students appeared delighted with their victory. "It feels like all the work was worthwhile," said graduate student Chris Kennedy. "But the environment is the real winner." Some teams boasted a membership of over 100 people at some point in the process of planning and building their houses, but most had a core group of fewer than 20 students.
Because many of the houses cost almost 200,000 dollars to build, students invested a great deal of energy into fundraising. The Crowder College team initially sold its home on Ebay for 75,000 dollars to receive money for construction. The sale included a provision that the college could buy the house back, which it now intends to do. Once the Crowder house returns to campus by truck, it will be used by visiting faculty at the school. The U.S. Department of Energy sponsored the Solar Decathlon, as did companies and institutions such as Home Depot, BP Solar, and the American Institute of Architects. Schools coordinated individual sponsorships from makers of energy efficient appliances and materials. The University of Colorado made a point incorporating already available technologies into their house. "Our systems worked and that came as part of the territory of using commercially available stuff," said Michael Brandemuehl, an associate engineering professor and the lead faculty advisor to the winning team. "We wanted to make the statement that these things are commercially available now."
Teams began the Decathalon process two years ago. Of the 10 contests that made up the Decathalon, seven are focused on energy and three are not. As part of the Getting Around Contest, students are required to drive their electric cars - charged by their photovoltaic panels - to the grocery store, donate food to a food bank, and visit a checkpoint at a nearby park.
The Design and Livability contest concentrates on architectural design and is the only contest worth 200 points. All nine other contests are worth 100 points each. They are: Design Presentation and Simulation, Graphics and Commnication, The Comfort Zone, Refrigeration, Hot Water, Energy Balance, Lighting, Home Business, and Getting Around. For more Decathalon details, visit: http://www.eren.doe.gov/solar_decathlon/index.html. Source: ENS 10/7/2002.
For more information on legislative activities go to: http://thomas.loc.gov
Nevada - Great Basin Center for Geothermal Energy
Looking for information on geothermal research and development information in Nevada? Check out the Great Basin Center for Geothermal Energy web site at: http://www.unr.edu/geothermal/.
California Geothermal Activities
Searching for information on geothermal activities in California? Check out the U.S. DOE Geothermal Program web site at: http://search.nrel.gov/query.html?qp=url%3Awww.eren.doe.gov%2Fgeothermal%2F&qs=&qc=eren&ws=0&qm=0&st=1&nh=10&lk=1&rf=0&oq=&col=eren&qt=california.
Biomass Spotlight: Colorado
Colorado is home to seven biomass key electric generating plants (biogas), which have a collective installed capacity of about 6 MW.1 It is also home to NREL - the National Renewable Energy Laboratory - a supporter of R&D in the biomass field. Useful applications for biomass resources within the state could increase with a recent grant from the U.S. Forest Service. The "Biomass Energy Project," is designed to help the Colorado Governor's Office of Energy Management and Conservation (OEMC) determine possible uses for wood debris resulting from natural forest processes. Collecting this debris could drastically reduce fire risk. In addition, the project creates an opportunity to use these forest residues for the production of power.2 OEMC also has been testing the use of methane gas from hog waste as possible means of electricity production at a Colorado hog farm - Colorado Pork, LLC.3 The farm produces 40 percent of its own electricity from hog waste, saving almost $7,000 per month.4 Businesses like Barlow Projects, Inc. - a small, Colorado-based energy services company - are making progress in the waste-to-energy industry.
Barlow Projects is leading the way in Colorado by using modern technologies that allow it to convert waste into usable electricity and power, operating with a combustion system that can accommodate anywhere from 100 to 1,000 tons per day of municipal solid waste (MSW).5 The state is fast becoming a leader in the fuel-ethanol industry. Colorado is able to produce about 1.5 million gallons of fuel-ethanol each year,6 and The National Ethanol Vehicle Coalition recognized the Denver area (the Front Range) as one of three "Model Cities" where E85 fuel will be introduced on a large scale. This "Model Cities" program, supported by the U.S. Department of Energy, is intended to use E85 to improve Colorado's fuel industry. Currently, the state is home to seven E85 refueling stations.
Source: October 2002 Biobased Fuels, Power and Products Newsletter.
For more information on marketing and research go to: http://www.nrel.gov/analysis/emaa/index.html
Continuing Solicitation for the Office of Science
Description: U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Science is seeking grant applications for support of basic energy science fundamental research in the natural sciences and engineering leading to new and improved energy technologies and to understand and mitigate the environmental impacts of energy technologies. Government Agency: U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Science. Schedule: Applications may be submitted at any time. URL: http://www.science.doe.gov or http://www.science.doe.gov/production/grants/fr02-01.html. Source: October 2002 Biobased Fuels, Power and Products Newsletter
Worldwide Federal Supply Schedule
Description: A solicitation for companies interested in being included on the Worldwide Federal Supply Schedule for energy services from which the Government contemplates award of contracts for supplies/services listed. Types of energy services include: energy audit services (includes use of alternative energy sources) and managing the procurement and use of electricity (includes supplying renewable power to customers in deregulated markets). Government Agency: U.S. General Services Administration. Schedule: Proposals accepted on a continuing basis. URL: http://www.eps.gov or http://www.eps.gov/EPSData/GSA/Synopses/8/TFTP-EJ-000871-1/energyrefresh.doc (probably Microsoft Word file). Source: October 2002 Biobased Fuels, Power and Products Newsletter
FY2003 SBIR/STTR Program Solicitation
Description: The objectives of these programs include increasing private-sector commercialization of technology developed through DOE-supported R&D, stimulating technological innovation in the private sector, and improving the return on investment from federally funded research for economic and social benefits to the nation. Topics include technology in the areas of biomass, biobased products, and bioenergy. Government Agency: Department of Energy Schedule: Full topic descriptions and due dates will be released in Mid-October. URL: http://sbir.er.doe.gov/sbir. Source: October 2002 Biobased Fuels, Power and Products Newsletter
Renewable and Resource Efficient Composite Materials for Affordable Housing
Description: Development of fiber reinforced polymer composites from plant-derived materials to be used in the construction of the floor, roof, and wall panels of a composite house. Recipients: University of Missouri Rolla. Award Total: $151,025. Sponsoring Office: National Science Foundation. URL: http://www.fastlane.nsf.gov http://www.fastlane.nsf.gov/servlet/showaward?award=0229731. Source: October 2002 Biobased Fuels, Power and Products Newsletter
Understanding Biocomplexity: Developing Methods of Defining Sustainable Uses for Ag Products
Description: Project is aimed at developing the people, skills and tools needed for understanding the system-wide sustainability of biobased products. Recipients: University of Oklahoma. Award Total: $109,851. Sponsoring Office: National Science Foundation. URL: http://www.fastlane.nsf.gov or http://www.fastlane.nsf.gov/servlet/showaward?award=0224006. Source: October 2002 Biobased Fuels, Power and Products Newsletter
Evergreen Solar Awarded NREL Subcontract
Evergreen Solar, Inc. recently announced it has been awarded a three-year, cost-shared letter subcontract by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) to complete a research and development (R&D) program under the Photovoltaic Manufacturing Technology (PVMaT) program. According to Evergreen Solar, PVMaT is a R&D partnership between the Department of Energy and members of the U.S. photovoltaic (PV) industry aimed at improving PV manufacturing processes and equipment; accelerating manufacturing cost reductions for PV modules, balance-of-systems components and integrated systems; increasing commercial product performance and reliability; and enhancing the investment opportunities for scaling up U.S. manufacturing capacity and increasing U.S. market share. Evergreen Solar said the new contract, which renews annually, will help the company continue development of its "string ribbon" manufacturing technology "into an advanced process that is virtually continuous, thereby reducing manufacturing costs."
The company also noted that the program will further its development of back contact solar cells and polymer frameless module technology. "This contract will support some of our core R&D and manufacturing initiatives over the next three years," said Evergreen Solar president and CEO Mark Farber. "We are particularly excited about the potential of these programs to significantly reduce our manufacturing costs while we develop an innovative product platform. We believe the polymer frameless module technology that we will be developing in this contract will have particular advantages in the rapidly growing building integrated solar market." Contact: Richard Chleboski, Evergreen Solar, phone 508-357-2221 extension 708. Source: Business Wire 10/1/2002 via EIN Renewable Energy Today 10/4/2002.
State of Nevada Request for Proposals
The Nevada State Task Force for Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation c/o State of Nevada Office of Attorney General Bureau of Consumer Protection is soliciting proposals for support functions for the Nevada Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation. The release date is October 7, 2002. The actual RFP document consists of 16 pages in addition to The Contract for Services of Independent Contractor and Submission Checklist. For additional information or to obtain a copy of this Request for Proposal, please contact: Bob Cooper, rccooper@ag.state.nv.us, (775) 687-6300 x 230. Source: E-mail from Carl Linvill 10/7/2002.
For more information on funding solicitations go to: http://www.eren.doe.gov/solicitations.html
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