The current hot topic in alternative energy is how the new big solar and wind power installations are swamping an already over-worked national power grid. The problem stems from the practice of siting the largest power stations far from the…
Author: Editor
It’s Not Just The Economy ——–!
For some people, having a hybrid car doesn’t quite do the job. One company, A123 Systems of Watertown, MA, has been selling battery systems to convert hybrids to plug-in electric, increasing a Prius economy from 50 mpg to 100 mpg.…
Another Mass. Wind Power Project
Kudos to another town in Massachusetts. Fred Hanson in the Patriot Ledger tells how the Milton, MA select board has received a recommendation from the town’s wind energy committee, detailing the potential use of the town’s former landfill. This makes…
Predicting the Future Of Wind Power – 10 Seconds at a Time
The bulk of discussion of wind turbines centers on blade design, turbine efficiency, and above all, siting constraints. Engineering that reduces objectionable low-frequency wind noise is making great strides, notably the Skystream and Swift designs, offer great incentive for community-…
Iceland Moves To Energy Independence
The Christian Science Monitor has a great staff who deal with environmental/energy issues. In the November 3rd issue, there is a cover article detailing Iceland’s plan to be 100% energy independent by 2050. This is in a country with only…
Locally Generated Wind And Solar Power
In the past, I’ve been bothered by plans being developed in shoreline communities, particularly here in Massachusetts, for wind systems in the Berkshires 100 miles inland. It has seemed odd that these towns wouldn’t want to generate wind-based power nearer…
Solar Cell Advance Promises 97% Efficiency
Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have developed a new solar cell structure that cuts cell reflectivity to 3 percent, down from 33 percent in more traditional solar cells. This advance puts solar energy on a very good footing vis-a-vis fossil fuels, with their roller coaster price and huge ecological disadvantage.
Have You Ever….?
Hi All, As you might notice from the look of the site, this blog has suffered a total melt-down, for which I need to accept responsibility I suppose — can’t think of anybody else to blame, since no one else…