The safety of nuclear plants is often debated, but we rarely hear about another potential issue for nuclear energy: peak uranium. That’s the point in time when when the maximum global uranium production is reached and begins to enter a permanent decline. And while we’ve known for some time that … [continued]
GoodCleanTech reports that Energizer plans on debuting its portable solar-powered AA and AAA battery charger at January’s Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. The slick-looking gadget is completely weatherproof and comes with a USB port to power electronics.
The folks at General Electric Global Research have put together the first ever OLED Christmas tree. GE has a tradition of showcasing its most recent technology in an annual holiday gesture, this year choosing to demonstrate their roll-to-roll OLED fabrication that they unveiled last March. The tree was made by … [continued]
Imara Corp. has announced a new generation of lithium-ion (li-ion) batteries made specifically for high power devices such as lawnmowers, power tools, hybrid vehicles and even grid storage. The company uses unique materials science technology to provide high-power, high-energy and extended cycle-life batteries and battery packs.
Even institutions devoted to God can use a little human intervention every once in awhile. That’s why Bethel Lutheran Church in Cupertino, CA, recently installed a 150 panel solar system with assistance from Akeena Solar. The panels will generate 34,000 kWh each year, and should save the church between $900 … [continued]
Scientists with research group SRI International recently completed a successful wave power test in the Monterey Bay off the coast of Santa Cruz, CA. While the buoy-like device only generates enough electricity to power a refrigerator light bulb, the design is an improvement on its problem-prone predecessors.
Alcatraz Island, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the US, will soon have visitors arriving on a hybrid ferryboat. The Hornblower Hybrid will be powered by two ten-foot-tall wind turbines and a photovoltaic solar array covering the awning’s top deck. The solar and wind energy will be used … [continued]
One major deterrent for city bicyclists is lack of parking. Some Japanese cities have taken it upon themselves to remedy the problem with the Eco Cycle, a profoundly weird machine that takes your bike and parks it underground for safe-keeping. The Eco Cycle costs 2,600 yen for a monthly ticket. … [continued]
More news from the piezoelectrics front: engineers from Innowattech are planning to test a network of Piezo Electric Generators (IPEG) on a 100 meter stretch of road. As with other piezoelectric devices, the IPEGs embedded in the road will turn mechanical strain into an electrical current or voltage. The IPEGs … [continued]
Shangri-La Industries recently debuted Hangar 25, the world’s first LEED Platinum aircraft hangar. The hangar, located in Burbank, CA, is complete with a solar array that produces 110% of the building’s needs, water-based hi-fog fire suppression system, plumbing that reduces water use by 60%, and sustainable landscaping. For more info, … [continued]
