Ford Unveils Hybrid E85
January 26, 2006
from RenewableEnergyAccess.com
"Both hybrids and ethanol-fueled vehicles can significantly lessen U.S. dependence on imported oil while reducing the impact on our global environment."
-- Nancy Gioia, director, Sustainable Mobility Technologies & Hybrid Programs "This innovative research program could lead to breakthroughs to significantly reduce our nation's dependence on imported oil while also helping to address global climate change," said Anne Stevens, executive vice president, Ford Motor Company, and chief operating officer, The Americas.
Washington, DC [RenewableEnergyAccess.com] Ford Motor Company recently unveiled the Ford Escape Hybrid E85 at the Washington Auto Show. The Escape Hybrid E85, a research vehicle that features both hybrid electric power and flexible-fuel capability, is the world's first hybrid vehicle capable of operating on blends of fuel containing as much as 85 percent ethanol.
Ford has two full hybrid electric vehicle models on the road today -- the Ford Escape Hybrid and the Mercury Mariner Hybrid -- and will increase production capacity to 250,000 hybrid vehicles a year by the end of the decade. The company will produce up to 250,000 ethanol-capable vehicles this year, including the Ford F-150 pickup truck, as well as the Ford Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis and Lincoln Town Car. The world's first hybrid SUV, the Ford Escape Hybrid, was introduced in 2004.
E85 is a fuel blend that contains 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline. Ethanol is a renewable fuel, most commonly made from corn in the U.S. The Ford Escape Hybrid 85 would produce about 25 percent less carbon dioxide if operated exclusively on E85. Ford recently announced a project with VeraSun Energy Corporation to encourage the further availability of E85 fuel at retail filling stations. Today, E85 is most commonly available in the Midwest, with about 600 E85 fueling stations in the U.S.
Although Ford engineers have achieved low tailpipe emissions with flexible-fuel vehicles (FFVs), evaporative emissions remain a challenge. Ford engineers are pursuing a number of strategies to address this challenge with the goal of achieving partial zero-emissions vehicle (PZEV) status. No FFV has yet been certified to this extremely clean standard, because of the evaporative requirement in the PZEV standard.
Ford researchers also hope to apply a number of proprietary engine technologies being developed for future application that could further increase the fuel economy performance of a hybrid FFV.
"Hydrogen holds the ultimate long-term promise for clean and sustainable power," said Nancy Gioia, director, Sustainable Mobility Technologies & Hybrid Programs. "In the meantime, both hybrids and ethanol-fueled vehicles can significantly lessen U.S. dependence on imported oil while reducing the impact on our global environment."
Friday, January 27, 2006
Thursday, January 26, 2006
Windpower is both an environmental and economic solution
from renewableenergyaccess.com
A Free Fuel That Tackles Oil Price Rises
by Corin Millais, Outgoing EWEA Chief Executive
Conventional economic wisdom goes something like this. Traditional energy is cheap and renewable energy expensive. Therefore we should 'wait' until the day renewables become cost competitive before they can be considered a realistic proposition. This viewpoint may have been true for the last two oil crises - in the 1970s, when modern wind power had not been invented, and in the 1980s, when wind was in its R&D phase. But with wind energy now an advanced technology it is an outdated fallacy, overtaken by today's energy realities.
And fossil fuels have an economic dark side. The last three global recessions were caused by oil price rises. The International Monetary Fund says that "oil prices will continue to present a serious risk to the global economy", while according to the International Energy Agency, world economic growth in 2005 might have been reduced by 0.8 percent as a result of record prices. Even before this past summer's price rises, a Financial Times oil market survey suggested that "governments would be wise to bring in policies that speed the end of the age of oil."
Oil and Renewables
Although oil consumption is typically perceived in terms of vehicles, with Americans having seen a gallon of gasoline rise USD $1.20 in the past year to reach more than USD $3.00, the link between oil and renewables is becoming stronger. The European Commission reacted to the surge in oil prices by launching a five-point plan which states that "the second main response to oil prices in the medium and long term is to switch to using alternative energy sources and to increase reliance on other forms of energy. Specific attention needs to be given in this respect to renewable and clean forms of energy".
Energy Commissioner Andris Piebalgs commented that "Europe leads the world in providing an intelligent, coherent and environmentally sound response to this challenge... we need to redouble our efforts."
Rising Power Prices
Gas is what binds a wind farm to a barrel of oil. Any increase in oil price has a significant effect on energy prices and in particular on those of gas and electricity. Gas prices largely follow those of oil. As some 30 percent of EU electricity generated by fossil fuels comes from natural gas, this has a direct effect on electricity prices. Power prices have already risen in many European countries.
Before the oil price rises, the European Commission's Green Paper on Security of Energy Supply concluded that in the next 20-30 years Europe will be importing 70% of its energy, up from 50% today. The baseline EU energy scenario projects that by 2030, oil imports will rise from 76% to 88% and gas imports from 50% to 81%. At the same time, new power generation capacity will need to increase by about 400 GW. 80% of the incremental energy consumption is expected to come from gas.
Free Fuel Forever
Compared with these constraints, wind power has zero fuel price risk, zero fuel costs and extremely low operation and maintenance costs. In addition, wind provides total protection from carbon costs, and zero geo-political risk associated with supply and infrastructure constraints or political dependence on other countries. Wind power has no resource constraints; the fuel is free and endless. Unlike conventional fuels, wind is a massive indigenous power source permanently available. Wind power stations can be constructed and deliver power far quicker than conventional sources. As electricity prices rise and imports increase, wind power is the obvious choice in Europe both for economics and security of supply. With the world talking about how expensive fuel is, the merits of a technology providing a free fuel supply are indisputable. In the context of rising oil prices, a reappraisal of the economic value of wind energy is overdue.
Forward price assumptions of USD $20 to USD $28 a barrel, as used in the EU's current energy scenario up to 2030, now appear patently unrealistic. As oil prices continue to spiral upwards, the era of cheap fossil fuels is coming to an end. The era of free fuel, which is what wind energy delivers, is coming into its own.
About the author...
The Chief Executive Officer of the European Wind Energy Association, Corin Millais, has announced that he is leaving his position at the end of February 2006 to become Executive Director of the newly-established Climate Institute in Sydney, Australia. The Institute has been set up with AUD$10 million of funding from a philanthropic group to develop and implement a five - year campaign to persuade Australians of the dangers of climate change and the need for governments to take urgent action.
The information and views expressed in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those of RenewableEnergyAccess.com or the companies that advertise on its Web site and other publications.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Comments (29) reader comments on this story
post a new comment
-- Charles Butterfield, January 23, 2006
Franklin Roosevelt created the Tennesseee Valley Authority during his tenure as President of the United States. The Tennessee Valley Authority contributed a great deal to the development of the modern electrical grid in the United States.
We need a similar sort of leadership from Washington to establish wind power as a dominant form of power to replace carbon based fossil fuels.
For a fraction of the cost of the war in Iraq we could establish windpower as a replacement for carbon based fossil fuels and reduce the manipulation that we have been subjected to by the monopolistic oil companies and the middle eastern oil producing nations.
Thank you,
Charles Butterfield
-- Wayne Bostick, January 23, 2006
Wind power is fine and has a price but I believe you are being a little misleading on the total price of production. Granted wind is free but capital and operational costs are very high per KWH. I realize that price is coming down but you still have to deal with scale and how much power can be wrung out of reasonable size turbines. Multiple units are very costly.
-- Wayne Bostick, January 23, 2006
Before I get in trouble again Charles, I do agree with you that we need leadership similar to the Kennedy moon landing project desperately. I'm at a loss as to what is motivating the lack of leadership on alternate and revewable energy from "Washington" !
-- Charles Butterfield, January 23, 2006
Thank you, Wayne:
The capital costs and operating costs of windpower have come down substantially so that the capital costs and operating costs per kilowatt hour are very competitive with the cost of electricity produced by natural gas, which is a large source of our electricity production today.
As the price of natural gas continues to increase and the cost of windpower contniues to decrease, soon it will be much less expensive to produce electricity using windpower rather than natural gas.
Also, when you consider the cost of the war in Iraq, wind power looks ridiculously cheap by comparison. If we installed enough wind turbines to make our country energy independent, I doubt that we would even be at war in Iraq, or any other oil producing country for that matter.
(continued)
-- Charles Butterfield, January 23, 2006
I recommend:
Everyone who reads this column, get to know your Congressperson very well. Work on their campaigns. If your Congressperson will not support leadership from Washington on windpower and other forms of renewable energy, change your Congressperson.
Let your Congressperson know that we expect the same sort of leadership from Congress that Franklin Roosevelt showed in the development of the Tennessee Valley Authority during the great depression in the 1930's.
Let windpower and renewable energy be the modern version of the Tennessee Valley Authority.
Thank you,
Charles Butterfield
-- Lee Fellows, January 25, 2006
While we're changing forms of energy, why not change the delivery method? Why not advocate true energy independence by making architecture and pavements generate on-site power? No rights-of-way, no supply crises, no terror-sensitive infrastructure, no taxes or surcharges, a new service industry with millions of jobs.........
-- Roger Plafkin, January 25, 2006
I am very encouraged by the analogy of the development of windpower and renewable energy to the creation of the Tennessee Valley Authority. The creation of Hoover Dam and the CCC put the country on a possitive path for the welfare of the entire country.
-- David Culver, January 25, 2006
I agree with Lee Fellows..massive decentralization of power systems where bigger US companies provide the tools for small business and do it yourselfers to implement self-reliant energy choices
-- Tricia Best, January 25, 2006
Sorry, but the wind is not "endless" and more importantly it is not predictable. Wind generators will not generate electricity if the wind is below a certain speed and cannot cope with very high wind speeds.
Conversely, we can predict quite accurately when the sun will shine: solar thermal will meet a significant proportion of the world's need for space and water heating & cooling and, with other technologies, can be harnessed to generate and store electricity.
But then you wouldn't expect the Chief Executive Officer of the European Wind Energy Association to mention the sun.
-- Phillip Mather, Jr., January 25, 2006
How many USD's do we send to Middle Eastern Oil Suppliers :
60 X 60 24 X 365.25 i.e. on Average what is it costing us per second....TO NOT GO 1000 % ALTERNATIVE FUEL WITH GREATER STRENGTH THAN THE MANHATTAN PROJECT....TODAY !!!! Something IS IN THE WIND....BUT WASHINGTON DOES NOT GET IT !!!! EITHER WAY...IS THERE A " PUN " IN THE WIND....Respectfully submitted !!
-- Richard Plevin, January 25, 2006
"Gas is what binds a wind farm to a barrel of oil. Any increase in oil price has a significant effect on energy prices and in particular on those of gas and electricity."
- Corin Millais, Outgoing EWEA Chief Executive The price of oil has more than tripled since 2001. Less than a year ago crude oil prices were in the range of US$25 to US$35 a barrel, but this past summer they reached an all-time high of almost US$70.
A Free Fuel That Tackles Oil Price Rises
by Corin Millais, Outgoing EWEA Chief Executive
Conventional economic wisdom goes something like this. Traditional energy is cheap and renewable energy expensive. Therefore we should 'wait' until the day renewables become cost competitive before they can be considered a realistic proposition. This viewpoint may have been true for the last two oil crises - in the 1970s, when modern wind power had not been invented, and in the 1980s, when wind was in its R&D phase. But with wind energy now an advanced technology it is an outdated fallacy, overtaken by today's energy realities.
And fossil fuels have an economic dark side. The last three global recessions were caused by oil price rises. The International Monetary Fund says that "oil prices will continue to present a serious risk to the global economy", while according to the International Energy Agency, world economic growth in 2005 might have been reduced by 0.8 percent as a result of record prices. Even before this past summer's price rises, a Financial Times oil market survey suggested that "governments would be wise to bring in policies that speed the end of the age of oil."
Oil and Renewables
Although oil consumption is typically perceived in terms of vehicles, with Americans having seen a gallon of gasoline rise USD $1.20 in the past year to reach more than USD $3.00, the link between oil and renewables is becoming stronger. The European Commission reacted to the surge in oil prices by launching a five-point plan which states that "the second main response to oil prices in the medium and long term is to switch to using alternative energy sources and to increase reliance on other forms of energy. Specific attention needs to be given in this respect to renewable and clean forms of energy".
Energy Commissioner Andris Piebalgs commented that "Europe leads the world in providing an intelligent, coherent and environmentally sound response to this challenge... we need to redouble our efforts."
Rising Power Prices
Gas is what binds a wind farm to a barrel of oil. Any increase in oil price has a significant effect on energy prices and in particular on those of gas and electricity. Gas prices largely follow those of oil. As some 30 percent of EU electricity generated by fossil fuels comes from natural gas, this has a direct effect on electricity prices. Power prices have already risen in many European countries.
Before the oil price rises, the European Commission's Green Paper on Security of Energy Supply concluded that in the next 20-30 years Europe will be importing 70% of its energy, up from 50% today. The baseline EU energy scenario projects that by 2030, oil imports will rise from 76% to 88% and gas imports from 50% to 81%. At the same time, new power generation capacity will need to increase by about 400 GW. 80% of the incremental energy consumption is expected to come from gas.
Free Fuel Forever
Compared with these constraints, wind power has zero fuel price risk, zero fuel costs and extremely low operation and maintenance costs. In addition, wind provides total protection from carbon costs, and zero geo-political risk associated with supply and infrastructure constraints or political dependence on other countries. Wind power has no resource constraints; the fuel is free and endless. Unlike conventional fuels, wind is a massive indigenous power source permanently available. Wind power stations can be constructed and deliver power far quicker than conventional sources. As electricity prices rise and imports increase, wind power is the obvious choice in Europe both for economics and security of supply. With the world talking about how expensive fuel is, the merits of a technology providing a free fuel supply are indisputable. In the context of rising oil prices, a reappraisal of the economic value of wind energy is overdue.
Forward price assumptions of USD $20 to USD $28 a barrel, as used in the EU's current energy scenario up to 2030, now appear patently unrealistic. As oil prices continue to spiral upwards, the era of cheap fossil fuels is coming to an end. The era of free fuel, which is what wind energy delivers, is coming into its own.
About the author...
The Chief Executive Officer of the European Wind Energy Association, Corin Millais, has announced that he is leaving his position at the end of February 2006 to become Executive Director of the newly-established Climate Institute in Sydney, Australia. The Institute has been set up with AUD$10 million of funding from a philanthropic group to develop and implement a five - year campaign to persuade Australians of the dangers of climate change and the need for governments to take urgent action.
The information and views expressed in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those of RenewableEnergyAccess.com or the companies that advertise on its Web site and other publications.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Comments (29) reader comments on this story
post a new comment
-- Charles Butterfield, January 23, 2006
Franklin Roosevelt created the Tennesseee Valley Authority during his tenure as President of the United States. The Tennessee Valley Authority contributed a great deal to the development of the modern electrical grid in the United States.
We need a similar sort of leadership from Washington to establish wind power as a dominant form of power to replace carbon based fossil fuels.
For a fraction of the cost of the war in Iraq we could establish windpower as a replacement for carbon based fossil fuels and reduce the manipulation that we have been subjected to by the monopolistic oil companies and the middle eastern oil producing nations.
Thank you,
Charles Butterfield
-- Wayne Bostick, January 23, 2006
Wind power is fine and has a price but I believe you are being a little misleading on the total price of production. Granted wind is free but capital and operational costs are very high per KWH. I realize that price is coming down but you still have to deal with scale and how much power can be wrung out of reasonable size turbines. Multiple units are very costly.
-- Wayne Bostick, January 23, 2006
Before I get in trouble again Charles, I do agree with you that we need leadership similar to the Kennedy moon landing project desperately. I'm at a loss as to what is motivating the lack of leadership on alternate and revewable energy from "Washington" !
-- Charles Butterfield, January 23, 2006
Thank you, Wayne:
The capital costs and operating costs of windpower have come down substantially so that the capital costs and operating costs per kilowatt hour are very competitive with the cost of electricity produced by natural gas, which is a large source of our electricity production today.
As the price of natural gas continues to increase and the cost of windpower contniues to decrease, soon it will be much less expensive to produce electricity using windpower rather than natural gas.
Also, when you consider the cost of the war in Iraq, wind power looks ridiculously cheap by comparison. If we installed enough wind turbines to make our country energy independent, I doubt that we would even be at war in Iraq, or any other oil producing country for that matter.
(continued)
-- Charles Butterfield, January 23, 2006
I recommend:
Everyone who reads this column, get to know your Congressperson very well. Work on their campaigns. If your Congressperson will not support leadership from Washington on windpower and other forms of renewable energy, change your Congressperson.
Let your Congressperson know that we expect the same sort of leadership from Congress that Franklin Roosevelt showed in the development of the Tennessee Valley Authority during the great depression in the 1930's.
Let windpower and renewable energy be the modern version of the Tennessee Valley Authority.
Thank you,
Charles Butterfield
-- Lee Fellows, January 25, 2006
While we're changing forms of energy, why not change the delivery method? Why not advocate true energy independence by making architecture and pavements generate on-site power? No rights-of-way, no supply crises, no terror-sensitive infrastructure, no taxes or surcharges, a new service industry with millions of jobs.........
-- Roger Plafkin, January 25, 2006
I am very encouraged by the analogy of the development of windpower and renewable energy to the creation of the Tennessee Valley Authority. The creation of Hoover Dam and the CCC put the country on a possitive path for the welfare of the entire country.
-- David Culver, January 25, 2006
I agree with Lee Fellows..massive decentralization of power systems where bigger US companies provide the tools for small business and do it yourselfers to implement self-reliant energy choices
-- Tricia Best, January 25, 2006
Sorry, but the wind is not "endless" and more importantly it is not predictable. Wind generators will not generate electricity if the wind is below a certain speed and cannot cope with very high wind speeds.
Conversely, we can predict quite accurately when the sun will shine: solar thermal will meet a significant proportion of the world's need for space and water heating & cooling and, with other technologies, can be harnessed to generate and store electricity.
But then you wouldn't expect the Chief Executive Officer of the European Wind Energy Association to mention the sun.
-- Phillip Mather, Jr., January 25, 2006
How many USD's do we send to Middle Eastern Oil Suppliers :
60 X 60 24 X 365.25 i.e. on Average what is it costing us per second....TO NOT GO 1000 % ALTERNATIVE FUEL WITH GREATER STRENGTH THAN THE MANHATTAN PROJECT....TODAY !!!! Something IS IN THE WIND....BUT WASHINGTON DOES NOT GET IT !!!! EITHER WAY...IS THERE A " PUN " IN THE WIND....Respectfully submitted !!
-- Richard Plevin, January 25, 2006
"Gas is what binds a wind farm to a barrel of oil. Any increase in oil price has a significant effect on energy prices and in particular on those of gas and electricity."
- Corin Millais, Outgoing EWEA Chief Executive The price of oil has more than tripled since 2001. Less than a year ago crude oil prices were in the range of US$25 to US$35 a barrel, but this past summer they reached an all-time high of almost US$70.
69 storey China skyscaper to be self-powered by solar PV and wind energy
from Refocus Weekly
Solar and wind integrated into design for Chinese skyscraper
CHICAGO, Illinois, US, January 23, 2006 (Refocus Weekly) A U.S. architecture firm has designed a 69-story building for China that will produce more energy than it consumes.
The Chicago firm of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill is among three finalists in an international design competition for a building in Guangzhou, a port city of 6.6 million people located 182 km from Hong Kong. The Pearl River Tower will be the corporate headquarters for a large Chinese company.
The design directs and manages prevailing winds to become ‘invisible braces’ which help to support the tower. The sculpted facade directs wind to a pair of openings on the mechanical floors, which then drive turbines to generate electricity for the building's heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems.
“The openings also relieve wind pressure on the face of the building,” explains project architect Gordon Gill of SOM. “Potentially-damaging negative pressure on the opposite side of the building is alleviated as well. The result is a more stable, more comfortable building.”
Energy consumption is reduced by maximizing natural day-lighting, reducing solar gain in air conditioned spaces, retaining rainwater for gray-water usage and using solar thermal collectors to heat the water supply. Stack venting, radiant slab cooling and caisson heat sinks work to chill the building, and building-integrated solar panels on the facade generate AC power.
“This is an iconic, high-performance building that is designed in harmony with its environment,” says SOM partner Adrian Smith. “It is a skyscraper for a new age.”
The winner of the design competition is expected to be announced in February.
Skidmore, Owings & Merrill was founded in 1936, and has designed many of the world's major buildings, including the Sears Tower and John Hancock Center in Chicago; and Jin Mao Tower in Shanghai. The company has offices in Chicago, New York, San Francisco, Washington, London and Shanghai.
Solar and wind integrated into design for Chinese skyscraper
CHICAGO, Illinois, US, January 23, 2006 (Refocus Weekly) A U.S. architecture firm has designed a 69-story building for China that will produce more energy than it consumes.
The Chicago firm of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill is among three finalists in an international design competition for a building in Guangzhou, a port city of 6.6 million people located 182 km from Hong Kong. The Pearl River Tower will be the corporate headquarters for a large Chinese company.
The design directs and manages prevailing winds to become ‘invisible braces’ which help to support the tower. The sculpted facade directs wind to a pair of openings on the mechanical floors, which then drive turbines to generate electricity for the building's heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems.
“The openings also relieve wind pressure on the face of the building,” explains project architect Gordon Gill of SOM. “Potentially-damaging negative pressure on the opposite side of the building is alleviated as well. The result is a more stable, more comfortable building.”
Energy consumption is reduced by maximizing natural day-lighting, reducing solar gain in air conditioned spaces, retaining rainwater for gray-water usage and using solar thermal collectors to heat the water supply. Stack venting, radiant slab cooling and caisson heat sinks work to chill the building, and building-integrated solar panels on the facade generate AC power.
“This is an iconic, high-performance building that is designed in harmony with its environment,” says SOM partner Adrian Smith. “It is a skyscraper for a new age.”
The winner of the design competition is expected to be announced in February.
Skidmore, Owings & Merrill was founded in 1936, and has designed many of the world's major buildings, including the Sears Tower and John Hancock Center in Chicago; and Jin Mao Tower in Shanghai. The company has offices in Chicago, New York, San Francisco, Washington, London and Shanghai.
One Megawatt tidal energy turbine for Northern Ireland
Tidal turbine to be installed in Northern Ireland
BRISTOL, England, January 23, 2006 (Refocus Weekly) Regulators in Northern Ireland have approved the installation of a 1 MW tidal energy turbine.
The Environment & Heritage Service has given consent to Marine Current Turbines of England to install its SeaGen tidal turbine in Strangford Lough. The device has received £4.3 million in funding from the British Department of Trade & Industry, and builds on the earlier development of the 300 kW SeaFlow that has been operational for more than two years.
The turbine will be installed and connected to the national grid this year, and has the capacity to generate green power for 600 homes.
“This is a tremendous step forward for tidal energy technology,” says Martin Wright of Marine Current Turbines. “Given the support of DTI and Northern Ireland ministers for the SeaGen project, we now have a unique opportunity to comprehensively assess the environmental impact of our technology as well as showcase the commercial potential of tidal stream energy.”
“We are confident that SeaGen will not only prove to be genuinely low in impact and sustainable, but will show that tidal energy can become a commercial reality and will be able to contribute to the UK energy requirements sooner that expected,” he adds. “The great advantage with tidal power is its predictability, certainty of fuel supply, and zero carbon emissions.”
“The UK leads the world in the field of tidal energy and this announcement is a very important step in maintaining that position,” says energy minister Malcolm Wicks. “The Strangford location, together with the expertise of Queens University of Belfast
who will manage the monitoring program, will afford a unique opportunity to further our understanding of the true environmental impact as well as the generation potential of these new technologies.”
“It is a real feather in the cap for Northern Ireland to be at the forefront of developing the technology to commercial scale,” he adds. “Last month, my department published the consent process that is required to get marine renewable energy prototypes in English and Welsh waters, as well as highlighting the £50 million package of financial support that is available from the deployment fund. Projects like SeaGen are exactly the type of scheme we have to replicate in order to develop a world class UK industry.”
“Our work with a smaller tidal device, the 300 kW SeaFlow that was also supported by the DTI and has been running off the north Devon coast for the past two and a half years, has been invaluable in developing SeaGen, the next generation device,” says Peter Fraenkel of MCT. “We have shown that it is possible to generate power in a hostile marine environment and to have a negligible effect on marine life.”
“Strangford Lough has one of the strongest tidal currents in the UK and Ireland so is a perfect location for us to pilot a pre-commercial device,” says Martin Wright of MCT. “It’s also a fantastic opportunity for Northern Ireland to show to the rest of the world that it is serious about renewable energy and sustainability.”
MCT and Royal Haskoning conducted a comprehensive environmental assessment for the SeaGen installation, to respect the sensitivity of the location. Environment & Heritage Service granted consent via the Food & Environment Protection Act, and the developers worked with EHS and conservation groups to agree on an adaptive approach to environmental monitoring of SeaGen’s installation and operation.
Last month, EDF Energy, one of the largest energy companies in Britain, increased its investment in MCT by £2 million, to support commercial development of the 1 MW SeaGen.
“We made our original investment in MCT in 2002 and are very pleased to have extended our involvement and to be associated with the world-leading tidal energy company,” says Chris Daniels of EDF. “It is the next step in our long-term commitment to maintaining a diverse and sustainable energy mix in the future including all types of generation, clean coal, gas, nuclear and renewables. We believe this diversity is crucial to address climate change, ensure security of supply and providing competitively priced electricity for customers.”
The 300 kW SeaFlow prototype was the world’s first offshore tidal turbine when it was installed off Lynmouth, Devon in May, 2003.
MCT has established a subsidiary, Sea Generation, to advance the SeaGen project. Officials expect to see the first commercial tidal farm to be operating within the next five years.
BRISTOL, England, January 23, 2006 (Refocus Weekly) Regulators in Northern Ireland have approved the installation of a 1 MW tidal energy turbine.
The Environment & Heritage Service has given consent to Marine Current Turbines of England to install its SeaGen tidal turbine in Strangford Lough. The device has received £4.3 million in funding from the British Department of Trade & Industry, and builds on the earlier development of the 300 kW SeaFlow that has been operational for more than two years.
The turbine will be installed and connected to the national grid this year, and has the capacity to generate green power for 600 homes.
“This is a tremendous step forward for tidal energy technology,” says Martin Wright of Marine Current Turbines. “Given the support of DTI and Northern Ireland ministers for the SeaGen project, we now have a unique opportunity to comprehensively assess the environmental impact of our technology as well as showcase the commercial potential of tidal stream energy.”
“We are confident that SeaGen will not only prove to be genuinely low in impact and sustainable, but will show that tidal energy can become a commercial reality and will be able to contribute to the UK energy requirements sooner that expected,” he adds. “The great advantage with tidal power is its predictability, certainty of fuel supply, and zero carbon emissions.”
“The UK leads the world in the field of tidal energy and this announcement is a very important step in maintaining that position,” says energy minister Malcolm Wicks. “The Strangford location, together with the expertise of Queens University of Belfast
who will manage the monitoring program, will afford a unique opportunity to further our understanding of the true environmental impact as well as the generation potential of these new technologies.”
“It is a real feather in the cap for Northern Ireland to be at the forefront of developing the technology to commercial scale,” he adds. “Last month, my department published the consent process that is required to get marine renewable energy prototypes in English and Welsh waters, as well as highlighting the £50 million package of financial support that is available from the deployment fund. Projects like SeaGen are exactly the type of scheme we have to replicate in order to develop a world class UK industry.”
“Our work with a smaller tidal device, the 300 kW SeaFlow that was also supported by the DTI and has been running off the north Devon coast for the past two and a half years, has been invaluable in developing SeaGen, the next generation device,” says Peter Fraenkel of MCT. “We have shown that it is possible to generate power in a hostile marine environment and to have a negligible effect on marine life.”
“Strangford Lough has one of the strongest tidal currents in the UK and Ireland so is a perfect location for us to pilot a pre-commercial device,” says Martin Wright of MCT. “It’s also a fantastic opportunity for Northern Ireland to show to the rest of the world that it is serious about renewable energy and sustainability.”
MCT and Royal Haskoning conducted a comprehensive environmental assessment for the SeaGen installation, to respect the sensitivity of the location. Environment & Heritage Service granted consent via the Food & Environment Protection Act, and the developers worked with EHS and conservation groups to agree on an adaptive approach to environmental monitoring of SeaGen’s installation and operation.
Last month, EDF Energy, one of the largest energy companies in Britain, increased its investment in MCT by £2 million, to support commercial development of the 1 MW SeaGen.
“We made our original investment in MCT in 2002 and are very pleased to have extended our involvement and to be associated with the world-leading tidal energy company,” says Chris Daniels of EDF. “It is the next step in our long-term commitment to maintaining a diverse and sustainable energy mix in the future including all types of generation, clean coal, gas, nuclear and renewables. We believe this diversity is crucial to address climate change, ensure security of supply and providing competitively priced electricity for customers.”
The 300 kW SeaFlow prototype was the world’s first offshore tidal turbine when it was installed off Lynmouth, Devon in May, 2003.
MCT has established a subsidiary, Sea Generation, to advance the SeaGen project. Officials expect to see the first commercial tidal farm to be operating within the next five years.
Thursday, January 19, 2006
Toronto firm, native Canadians, in 1,000 megawatt windpower project
Métis group to harness wind
By PAUL WALDIE
Tuesday, January 17, 2006 Posted at 9:48 PM EST
From Wednesday's Globe and Mail
A Toronto company is teaming up with a Métis organization in Newfoundland and Labrador to build the largest wind power project in Canada.
The $2.5-billion wind farm will include roughly 330 giant turbines that will stretch across central Labrador and hook up to the Churchill Falls power station. The project is expected to generate 1,000 megawatts of power, enough to provide electricity for 500,000 homes.
“It'll be the largest wind farm in the country,” said John Douglas, president and chief executive officer of Toronto-based Ventus Energy Inc., a private company that is spearheading the project with Métis Development Corp., based in Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Nfld. “These are huge economic development engines and we are delighted that we've got such a good strong local partner to work with.”
Mr. Douglas said he hopes to start construction next year, with the first power deliveries by late 2007. He added that Ventus has had discussions with the province, Labrador Hydro and potential customers and said other partners are expected to join the venture.
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“We like the partnership model,” Mr. Douglas said. “We think it brings incredible synergies and the local support side of the equation. In this case in particular, in the struggling economy of Labrador, this is just a Godsend to them and they are very excited.”
Métis Development Corp., or MDC, was created in 2003 as the investment arm of the Labrador Métis Nation, the largest aboriginal group in Newfoundland, with about 5,000 members.
Jamie Snook, MDC's general manger, said his group has been working with Ventus since last summer on the wind project. The wind farm will be MDC's third investment. “There is no doubt that there will be significant dividends on a long-term basis that will be created for us under this project,” Mr. Snook said.
The Innu Nation also has land claims in the area, but Mr. Snook said that won't hamper the project and he expects strong support from other aboriginal groups in the region.
“I guess Labrador is used to dealing with developers over the last number of years,” he said, referring to the Voisey's Bay nickel mine.
Mr. Douglas, a former investment banker, created Ventus in 2003 and the company is working on 25 wind projects, including one with the Cree Nation in James Bay, Que.
He said the Labrador wind farm will be financed entirely by private investors. “There are all kinds of institutions, pension plans and large money managers that are looking for long-term, lower-risk, 20-year-type energy investments,” he said. “We are highly confident that the project financing is there and we don't need a dollar from the federal or provincial governments.”
Wind power has become one of the world's fastest-growing energy sources. The industry has soared in recent years thanks in part to rising energy costs and incentives from various governments. The amount of wind power in Canada has grown from around 150 megawatts in 2000 to roughly 820 megawatts today. The Canadian Wind Energy Association expects that figure to be above 5,000 megawatts by 2010, which would represent about 2 per cent of the country's total electricity supply.
Mr. Douglas said one of the advantages of the Labrador project is that the turbine towers will be located in a remote area, far away from anyone who doesn't like them. “There is nobody within hundreds of kilometres,” he said. “So, the issue of ‘not in my backyard' or ‘we don't like what these things look like' doesn't exist up there.”
By PAUL WALDIE
Tuesday, January 17, 2006 Posted at 9:48 PM EST
From Wednesday's Globe and Mail
A Toronto company is teaming up with a Métis organization in Newfoundland and Labrador to build the largest wind power project in Canada.
The $2.5-billion wind farm will include roughly 330 giant turbines that will stretch across central Labrador and hook up to the Churchill Falls power station. The project is expected to generate 1,000 megawatts of power, enough to provide electricity for 500,000 homes.
“It'll be the largest wind farm in the country,” said John Douglas, president and chief executive officer of Toronto-based Ventus Energy Inc., a private company that is spearheading the project with Métis Development Corp., based in Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Nfld. “These are huge economic development engines and we are delighted that we've got such a good strong local partner to work with.”
Mr. Douglas said he hopes to start construction next year, with the first power deliveries by late 2007. He added that Ventus has had discussions with the province, Labrador Hydro and potential customers and said other partners are expected to join the venture.
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“We like the partnership model,” Mr. Douglas said. “We think it brings incredible synergies and the local support side of the equation. In this case in particular, in the struggling economy of Labrador, this is just a Godsend to them and they are very excited.”
Métis Development Corp., or MDC, was created in 2003 as the investment arm of the Labrador Métis Nation, the largest aboriginal group in Newfoundland, with about 5,000 members.
Jamie Snook, MDC's general manger, said his group has been working with Ventus since last summer on the wind project. The wind farm will be MDC's third investment. “There is no doubt that there will be significant dividends on a long-term basis that will be created for us under this project,” Mr. Snook said.
The Innu Nation also has land claims in the area, but Mr. Snook said that won't hamper the project and he expects strong support from other aboriginal groups in the region.
“I guess Labrador is used to dealing with developers over the last number of years,” he said, referring to the Voisey's Bay nickel mine.
Mr. Douglas, a former investment banker, created Ventus in 2003 and the company is working on 25 wind projects, including one with the Cree Nation in James Bay, Que.
He said the Labrador wind farm will be financed entirely by private investors. “There are all kinds of institutions, pension plans and large money managers that are looking for long-term, lower-risk, 20-year-type energy investments,” he said. “We are highly confident that the project financing is there and we don't need a dollar from the federal or provincial governments.”
Wind power has become one of the world's fastest-growing energy sources. The industry has soared in recent years thanks in part to rising energy costs and incentives from various governments. The amount of wind power in Canada has grown from around 150 megawatts in 2000 to roughly 820 megawatts today. The Canadian Wind Energy Association expects that figure to be above 5,000 megawatts by 2010, which would represent about 2 per cent of the country's total electricity supply.
Mr. Douglas said one of the advantages of the Labrador project is that the turbine towers will be located in a remote area, far away from anyone who doesn't like them. “There is nobody within hundreds of kilometres,” he said. “So, the issue of ‘not in my backyard' or ‘we don't like what these things look like' doesn't exist up there.”
Triodos.co.uk offers Renewable Energy Investment Fund
from Triodos.co.uk
One of the most positive things that we can do to respond to global climate change is to support moves to generate our energy from renewable sources such as the wind, the sun and water. Individuals can now take practical steps to tackle climate change by investing in renewable energy through Triodos Renewables shares.
For 25 years, the Triodos Group has been at the forefront of developing and financing the European renewable energy sector, bringing clean, green energy to thousands of people. As well as Triodos Bank, the Triodos Group has also established and managed funds, such as Triodos Renewables, that act directly as owner or part-owner of renewable power generation schemes. Together, Triodos Bank and other funds in the Triodos Group have provided finance for over 150 European renewable energy projects.
Triodos Renewables shares offer UK investors the potential for financial returns, while making a sustainable investment in the planet’s future. As a shareholder in Triodos Renewables, you will be able to plug into the growing renewable energy market and help create a more sustainable world.
Triodos Renewables:
* Invests in the fast-growing small-scale renewable energy sector.
* Is managed by a team of experienced professionals in the Triodos Group, which has developed expertise in financing renewable energy projects over the past 25 years.
* will act as a community of interest for renewable energy – a powerful collection of individuals and organisations. It will invest in financially viable renewable technologies as well as actively involving its shareholders in supporting new developments.
* supports sensitively sited developments. It considers well-developed projects in appropriate sites, involving the local community wherever possible.
This is a vital time to support the development of renewable energy. Nuclear power is creeping back on to the agenda while issues of cost, waste and safety remain unresolved and the consumption of finite fossil fuels continues to increase.
At the same time, the UK is one of the world’s two most financially attractive countries for renewable energy investment (source: Ernst & Young), backed by Government policy and tried and tested technology in the sector.
The Triodos Renewables share issue closed in October 2005 after raising over �4.75 million. Since its launch, the Fund has invested in ‘Gulliver’, the UK’s largest single turbine on the industrial coastline of Lowestoft, and Caton Moor in Lancashire, replacing ten older wind turbines with eight new and more efficient ones.
Buying or Selling Triodos Renewables shares
Follow the steps outlined below or call Triodos Bank free on 0800 056 2761.
Important Notice
This website does not constitute an offer or invitation to subscribe for shares. Past performance is not necessarily a guide to future performance. It may be difficult to sell or realise your investment, or to obtain reliable information about its value or other risks to which it is exposed. You might not get back the full amount invested. Investment in Triodos Renewables is intended to be for the long term and income from your investment may fluctuate. If you are not sure about whether or not to invest, you should consult a professional adviser authorised under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000, who specialises in advising about investment in shares.
This website has been approved by Triodos Bank NV.
The Triodos Renewables Matched Bargain Market is undertaken by Triodos Bank NV, Brunel House, 11 The Promenade, Clifton, Bristol BS8 3NN
Triodos Renewables is a trading name of Triodos Renewable Energy Fund plc.
How to Register
Any individual or organisation can apply to buy or sell Triodos Renewables shares at any time, through the Matched Bargain Market run by Triodos Bank NV. You can request an application pack by ringing 0800 056 2761 between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday, by downloading the forms below or by writing to us at the address shown above.
How it Works
Every month, Triodos holds a matching day when registered sellers are matched with registered buyers. This is done on a ‘first come, first served’ basis. The money is then dispatched to the seller after deduction of charges and the buyer receives a share certificate. Sales or purchases not matched are carried forward to the next matching day one month later and remain on the market until a buyer or seller is found.
Please note that the Matched Bargain Market does not constitute a recognised investment exchange and that Triodos Bank cannot provide you with any advice about the merits or suitability of this investment for you.
How is the recommended share price calculated?
The price at which shares are traded on the Matched Bargain Market is currently �1.40 per share. This price is recommended by the Directors of Triodos Renewables. They base the price on the future cash flows of the investments made by Triodos Renewables and the price is reviewed quarterly.
Buying Shares
The minimum number of shares you can buy is 700.
There is a charge of 1.5% (�1.50 per �100 – minimum charge �5) to cover the costs of the transaction, including Stamp Duty where applicable.
Your attention is drawn to the risk warnings on the application form.
If you wish to buy shares, please send a completed application form, together with your payment, to Triodos Bank.
Click here to download an application form or call 0800 056 2761 to request a copy.
You can download the latest Triodos Renewables Annual Report using the link at the bottom of this page.
Selling Shares
The minimum number of shares you can sell is 700, or your entire holding if it is less than this. There is a charge of 1% (�1 per �100) to cover the costs of each sale transaction, subject to a minimum charge of �5. This will be deducted from the proceeds of any sale of your shares before they are forwarded to you.
If you are in any doubt about the investment merits of selling your Triodos Renewables shares now, we recommend you contact your regular financial advisor for guidance. Sending your share certificate and completed share transfer form to Triodos Bank will be considered sufficient instruction to proceed with a sale of your shares.
To sell your shares please send a completed seller declaration and stock transfer form, together with your share certificate, to Triodos Bank, FREEPOST BS9292, BRISTOL, BS8 3ZZ. Your shares may be sold to more than one buyer. If you wish to sell more than 700 shares, to ensure the quickest sale possible please print and complete three stock transfer forms (please note that photocopies are not acceptable).
To download seller declaration and stock transfer form in PDF format click here. Alternatively call 0800 056 2761 to request copies.
Call 0800 056 2761 to request a seller declaration and stock transfer form.
from Triodos.co.uk
One of the most positive things that we can do to respond to global climate change is to support moves to generate our energy from renewable sources such as the wind, the sun and water. Individuals can now take practical steps to tackle climate change by investing in renewable energy through Triodos Renewables shares.
For 25 years, the Triodos Group has been at the forefront of developing and financing the European renewable energy sector, bringing clean, green energy to thousands of people. As well as Triodos Bank, the Triodos Group has also established and managed funds, such as Triodos Renewables, that act directly as owner or part-owner of renewable power generation schemes. Together, Triodos Bank and other funds in the Triodos Group have provided finance for over 150 European renewable energy projects.
Triodos Renewables shares offer UK investors the potential for financial returns, while making a sustainable investment in the planet’s future. As a shareholder in Triodos Renewables, you will be able to plug into the growing renewable energy market and help create a more sustainable world.
Triodos Renewables:
* Invests in the fast-growing small-scale renewable energy sector.
* Is managed by a team of experienced professionals in the Triodos Group, which has developed expertise in financing renewable energy projects over the past 25 years.
* will act as a community of interest for renewable energy – a powerful collection of individuals and organisations. It will invest in financially viable renewable technologies as well as actively involving its shareholders in supporting new developments.
* supports sensitively sited developments. It considers well-developed projects in appropriate sites, involving the local community wherever possible.
This is a vital time to support the development of renewable energy. Nuclear power is creeping back on to the agenda while issues of cost, waste and safety remain unresolved and the consumption of finite fossil fuels continues to increase.
At the same time, the UK is one of the world’s two most financially attractive countries for renewable energy investment (source: Ernst & Young), backed by Government policy and tried and tested technology in the sector.
The Triodos Renewables share issue closed in October 2005 after raising over �4.75 million. Since its launch, the Fund has invested in ‘Gulliver’, the UK’s largest single turbine on the industrial coastline of Lowestoft, and Caton Moor in Lancashire, replacing ten older wind turbines with eight new and more efficient ones.
Buying or Selling Triodos Renewables shares
Follow the steps outlined below or call Triodos Bank free on 0800 056 2761.
Important Notice
This website does not constitute an offer or invitation to subscribe for shares. Past performance is not necessarily a guide to future performance. It may be difficult to sell or realise your investment, or to obtain reliable information about its value or other risks to which it is exposed. You might not get back the full amount invested. Investment in Triodos Renewables is intended to be for the long term and income from your investment may fluctuate. If you are not sure about whether or not to invest, you should consult a professional adviser authorised under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000, who specialises in advising about investment in shares.
This website has been approved by Triodos Bank NV.
The Triodos Renewables Matched Bargain Market is undertaken by Triodos Bank NV, Brunel House, 11 The Promenade, Clifton, Bristol BS8 3NN
Triodos Renewables is a trading name of Triodos Renewable Energy Fund plc.
How to Register
Any individual or organisation can apply to buy or sell Triodos Renewables shares at any time, through the Matched Bargain Market run by Triodos Bank NV. You can request an application pack by ringing 0800 056 2761 between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday, by downloading the forms below or by writing to us at the address shown above.
How it Works
Every month, Triodos holds a matching day when registered sellers are matched with registered buyers. This is done on a ‘first come, first served’ basis. The money is then dispatched to the seller after deduction of charges and the buyer receives a share certificate. Sales or purchases not matched are carried forward to the next matching day one month later and remain on the market until a buyer or seller is found.
Please note that the Matched Bargain Market does not constitute a recognised investment exchange and that Triodos Bank cannot provide you with any advice about the merits or suitability of this investment for you.
How is the recommended share price calculated?
The price at which shares are traded on the Matched Bargain Market is currently �1.40 per share. This price is recommended by the Directors of Triodos Renewables. They base the price on the future cash flows of the investments made by Triodos Renewables and the price is reviewed quarterly.
Buying Shares
The minimum number of shares you can buy is 700.
There is a charge of 1.5% (�1.50 per �100 – minimum charge �5) to cover the costs of the transaction, including Stamp Duty where applicable.
Your attention is drawn to the risk warnings on the application form.
If you wish to buy shares, please send a completed application form, together with your payment, to Triodos Bank.
Click here to download an application form or call 0800 056 2761 to request a copy.
You can download the latest Triodos Renewables Annual Report using the link at the bottom of this page.
Selling Shares
The minimum number of shares you can sell is 700, or your entire holding if it is less than this. There is a charge of 1% (�1 per �100) to cover the costs of each sale transaction, subject to a minimum charge of �5. This will be deducted from the proceeds of any sale of your shares before they are forwarded to you.
If you are in any doubt about the investment merits of selling your Triodos Renewables shares now, we recommend you contact your regular financial advisor for guidance. Sending your share certificate and completed share transfer form to Triodos Bank will be considered sufficient instruction to proceed with a sale of your shares.
To sell your shares please send a completed seller declaration and stock transfer form, together with your share certificate, to Triodos Bank, FREEPOST BS9292, BRISTOL, BS8 3ZZ. Your shares may be sold to more than one buyer. If you wish to sell more than 700 shares, to ensure the quickest sale possible please print and complete three stock transfer forms (please note that photocopies are not acceptable).
To download seller declaration and stock transfer form in PDF format click here. Alternatively call 0800 056 2761 to request copies.
Call 0800 056 2761 to request a seller declaration and stock transfer form.
from Triodos.co.uk
Monday, January 09, 2006
Carmanah (CMH-T) Tech to build solar photovoltaic plant in Toronto
from SolarBuzz.com
Victoria, BC, Canada: Canada's Largest Photovoltaic Installation Set to Proceed
Carmanah Technologies has received a letter of intent confirming a forth-coming contract in the amount of $1,000,196 from the City of Toronto for a 100 kW solar power system to be installed on the roof of the Horse Palace at Exhibition Place.
Located ten minutes from downtown Toronto, along the shores of Lake Ontario, Exhibition Place holds grand-scale world-class events on its 192 acres of parkland including the annual Canadian National Exhibition, the Molson INDY, the Caribana Parade, the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair and World Youth Day. Annually, Exhibition Place welcomes 5.2 million visitors to the site.
"Carmanah is pleased to be selected as the technology partner for this solar power project at Exhibition Place," states Art Aylesworth, Carmanah's CEO. "This project represents the first RFP response by the merged forces of Carmanah and Soltek Powersource Ltd., and is indicative of the synergies created through the Soltek acquisition."
Carmanah will install a state-of-the-art 100 kW solar power system on Exhibition Place that is tied to the conventional electricity grid. The system uses high efficiency solar modules and a unique penetrationless racking system. An educational display in the lobby will show the public how much power is being produced, environmental conditions as well as historical system performance data. It is estimated this system will reduce the annual carbon dioxide emissions of this facility by approximately 94.7 tonnes per year.
This initial system is part of Exhibition Place's larger plans to improve Toronto's sustainable energy future while immediately reducing greenhouse gas production. The ultimate goal for Exhibition Place is to become a net exporter of clean emission-free electricity.
"Carmanah will provide Exhibition Place with a complete turnkey package as a model of sustainable energy for the City of Toronto," states Aylesworth. "With the successful implementation of this project, we will also set an example to other cities striving to reach their renewable energy goals."
Carmanah's solar power systems take advantage of otherwise unused existing rooftops on buildings, gathering solar energy as a source of clean electricity to offset traditional grid power requirements. The systems improve air quality, and show the commitment of forward-thinking cities, such as Toronto, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Stated Rob McMonagle, Executive Director of the Canadian Solar Industries Association ("CANSIA"), "Solar energy will play an important role as part of Ontario's future power generation. Toronto has a mandate for cleaner air and reduced dependence on fossil fuels. The demonstration at Exhibition Place will show how rooftops across Canada can be efficiently utilized for sustainable electrical generation. CANSIA applauds the Toronto Atmospheric Fund and the City of Toronto for launching this forward thinking project, and we expect many municipalities to follow their example."
More info at www.Carmanah.com
Victoria, BC, Canada: Canada's Largest Photovoltaic Installation Set to Proceed
Carmanah Technologies has received a letter of intent confirming a forth-coming contract in the amount of $1,000,196 from the City of Toronto for a 100 kW solar power system to be installed on the roof of the Horse Palace at Exhibition Place.
Located ten minutes from downtown Toronto, along the shores of Lake Ontario, Exhibition Place holds grand-scale world-class events on its 192 acres of parkland including the annual Canadian National Exhibition, the Molson INDY, the Caribana Parade, the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair and World Youth Day. Annually, Exhibition Place welcomes 5.2 million visitors to the site.
"Carmanah is pleased to be selected as the technology partner for this solar power project at Exhibition Place," states Art Aylesworth, Carmanah's CEO. "This project represents the first RFP response by the merged forces of Carmanah and Soltek Powersource Ltd., and is indicative of the synergies created through the Soltek acquisition."
Carmanah will install a state-of-the-art 100 kW solar power system on Exhibition Place that is tied to the conventional electricity grid. The system uses high efficiency solar modules and a unique penetrationless racking system. An educational display in the lobby will show the public how much power is being produced, environmental conditions as well as historical system performance data. It is estimated this system will reduce the annual carbon dioxide emissions of this facility by approximately 94.7 tonnes per year.
This initial system is part of Exhibition Place's larger plans to improve Toronto's sustainable energy future while immediately reducing greenhouse gas production. The ultimate goal for Exhibition Place is to become a net exporter of clean emission-free electricity.
"Carmanah will provide Exhibition Place with a complete turnkey package as a model of sustainable energy for the City of Toronto," states Aylesworth. "With the successful implementation of this project, we will also set an example to other cities striving to reach their renewable energy goals."
Carmanah's solar power systems take advantage of otherwise unused existing rooftops on buildings, gathering solar energy as a source of clean electricity to offset traditional grid power requirements. The systems improve air quality, and show the commitment of forward-thinking cities, such as Toronto, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Stated Rob McMonagle, Executive Director of the Canadian Solar Industries Association ("CANSIA"), "Solar energy will play an important role as part of Ontario's future power generation. Toronto has a mandate for cleaner air and reduced dependence on fossil fuels. The demonstration at Exhibition Place will show how rooftops across Canada can be efficiently utilized for sustainable electrical generation. CANSIA applauds the Toronto Atmospheric Fund and the City of Toronto for launching this forward thinking project, and we expect many municipalities to follow their example."
More info at www.Carmanah.com
Israeli solar village prototype for 21st century
from Haaretz.com
Solar energy shines throughout Negev village
By Nir Hasson
Israel's first multipurpose solar electricity system for providing power to an entire community was initiated on Tuesday during a festive ceremony in the Negev village of Darajat.
Until recently, the Arab village of Darajat, like many other communities in the Negev, was not recognized by the state and therefore not eligible for government assistance when it came to water supply, construction and, specifically, electrical power. Now, in an experiment to test the limits of solar power, the government and Interdan, a private natural-electricity company, are fitting houses, community centers, mosques and roads in Darajat with solar electricity systems.
Gil Nezer, Interdan's marketing director, contends that Darajat is the first community in the world to be fitted with a solar electricity system designed to supply all of its needs. In Darajat, solar electricians assert, residents will be able to use just about any electrical appliance powered by natural electricity even at night or on cloudy days, except for air conditioners and heaters.
Located north of the Be'er Sheva-Dimona road, Darajat is the only Arab village in the Negev whose residents are agricultural laborers, like the Palestinians, as opposed to Bedouin nomads. The village, established 150 years ago by the Abu Hamad family from Mount Hebron and the Negev, was not officially recognized by the state until two years ago. As a result, Darajat dwellers built their community - schools, mosque, and clinic alike - without external financial assistance; and, until recently, 24 private generators fueled the community, charging exorbitant fees for a few hours of power a day. The chairman of the village committee, Ishak Abu Hamad, says that residents pay NIS 1.5 million a year to run the generators a mere four hours a day and night.
The Ministry of National Infrastructure proposed connecting Darajat homes to a solar electricity system six months after the state recognized the village. The Negev Development Authority and MK Shimon Peres' office for developing the Negev and Galilee, among others, enlisted in the effort. Interdan began connecting homes to the natural electricity system a month ago.
Interdan executives hope that Darajat will serve as a model for spreading solar electricity throughout Israel. "Israel has the perfect climate conditions for it; but as far as the political climate is concerned, we lag behind other Western countries in this area," Nezer says.
However, the installation of infrastructure in the village is experiencing delays. So far the system has been installed on a trial basis in 20 of the 95 households in the village; the science room of the local school; the mosque; and streetlights. In addition, independently operated systems were also installed in each village house. The roofs have been fitted with eight square-meter solar panels and a small unit with a converter and batteries that supplies electricity at night and on cloudy days. The system, Interdan officials promise, can operate continuously for four days without direct sunlight, or for a week with partly cloudy skies. However, in the heart of the Negev desert, four days without sun is a rarity.
When the village is hooked up to the national electricity grid, houses with solar systems will be connected using a bi-directional electricity meter. In other words, Darajat residents will not only be able to use solar energy, but they will also be able to sell electricity to the national grid, meaning that the electricity they supply to the system will be deducted from their own electricity bills.
In the meantime, however, Darajat residents will still have to endure the noise of the generators because most of the houses in the village are still not connected to the solar system. Peres, who attended the inauguration ceremony on Tuesday, promised that funding would soon be found to hook up the remaining houses in the village to the system.
Solar energy shines throughout Negev village
By Nir Hasson
Israel's first multipurpose solar electricity system for providing power to an entire community was initiated on Tuesday during a festive ceremony in the Negev village of Darajat.
Until recently, the Arab village of Darajat, like many other communities in the Negev, was not recognized by the state and therefore not eligible for government assistance when it came to water supply, construction and, specifically, electrical power. Now, in an experiment to test the limits of solar power, the government and Interdan, a private natural-electricity company, are fitting houses, community centers, mosques and roads in Darajat with solar electricity systems.
Gil Nezer, Interdan's marketing director, contends that Darajat is the first community in the world to be fitted with a solar electricity system designed to supply all of its needs. In Darajat, solar electricians assert, residents will be able to use just about any electrical appliance powered by natural electricity even at night or on cloudy days, except for air conditioners and heaters.
Located north of the Be'er Sheva-Dimona road, Darajat is the only Arab village in the Negev whose residents are agricultural laborers, like the Palestinians, as opposed to Bedouin nomads. The village, established 150 years ago by the Abu Hamad family from Mount Hebron and the Negev, was not officially recognized by the state until two years ago. As a result, Darajat dwellers built their community - schools, mosque, and clinic alike - without external financial assistance; and, until recently, 24 private generators fueled the community, charging exorbitant fees for a few hours of power a day. The chairman of the village committee, Ishak Abu Hamad, says that residents pay NIS 1.5 million a year to run the generators a mere four hours a day and night.
The Ministry of National Infrastructure proposed connecting Darajat homes to a solar electricity system six months after the state recognized the village. The Negev Development Authority and MK Shimon Peres' office for developing the Negev and Galilee, among others, enlisted in the effort. Interdan began connecting homes to the natural electricity system a month ago.
Interdan executives hope that Darajat will serve as a model for spreading solar electricity throughout Israel. "Israel has the perfect climate conditions for it; but as far as the political climate is concerned, we lag behind other Western countries in this area," Nezer says.
However, the installation of infrastructure in the village is experiencing delays. So far the system has been installed on a trial basis in 20 of the 95 households in the village; the science room of the local school; the mosque; and streetlights. In addition, independently operated systems were also installed in each village house. The roofs have been fitted with eight square-meter solar panels and a small unit with a converter and batteries that supplies electricity at night and on cloudy days. The system, Interdan officials promise, can operate continuously for four days without direct sunlight, or for a week with partly cloudy skies. However, in the heart of the Negev desert, four days without sun is a rarity.
When the village is hooked up to the national electricity grid, houses with solar systems will be connected using a bi-directional electricity meter. In other words, Darajat residents will not only be able to use solar energy, but they will also be able to sell electricity to the national grid, meaning that the electricity they supply to the system will be deducted from their own electricity bills.
In the meantime, however, Darajat residents will still have to endure the noise of the generators because most of the houses in the village are still not connected to the solar system. Peres, who attended the inauguration ceremony on Tuesday, promised that funding would soon be found to hook up the remaining houses in the village to the system.
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