That “Other” Solar Tower Technology
Brightsource LPT solar power tower with energy storage; history, technology, and the future.
Author: breathonthewind
Water Shortage, Critical for Non-Wind Power
Water is essential for Coal, Nuclear and Solar Thermal power plants. A shortage would require a critical reduction in generating capacity.
Stephen Colbert Flips the Bird to Nissan’s Wave
Steve Colbert gestures his reaction to the Nissan Campain to create an exclusive wave between Leaf owners.
Giant Arizona Solar Tower: High Energy with Hot Air
The concept of making hot air to power wind turbines through a chimney has been around for at least 100 years. Enviromission, claims the world wide rights to the technology and has been trying to build a massive tower (chimney) for over a decade. The latest attempt is scheduled to rise in Arizona in 2015.
21st-Century, Stable, Thermal Energy Storage
We may be about to see a radically new technology in thermal energy storage. Researchers at MIT have been been working on ways to store the sun’s energy in chemical bonds. These developments in this “heat battery” or a “solar fuel,” are due to the addition of carbon nano technology.
All-Electric (Racing) Cars without Batteries?
New technical specifications for Formula 1 racing require vehicles in the pit to operate in electric only mode. Drayson Racing Technologies and HaloIPT are working together to offer completely electric vehicles through electrified racetrack roadways.
Solar PV Panel Shading, a New Consideration for ROI?
One of the essential questions we ask with solar PV installation is “what will the return on the investment (ROI) be?” Many considerations are used to calculate a result. Researchers at the UC San Diego Jacobs School of Engineering, under the direction of professor for environmental engineering Jan Kleissl, have recently provided us with yet another consideration to incorporate into these equations — the energy efficiency benefit of solar panel shade. Using a thermal infrared camera, they were able to calculate the value of solar panel roof shading.
GM Sells Security
GM is in the business of selling vehicles. They also usually make them. Anticipating objections was the object of GM’s recent announcement of a “definitive agreement” with ABB, a back up power and energy storage company. For most an “Electric vehicle” means a battery car. Some question if electric vehicles are truly “clean.” GM wants us to imagine with confidence where batteries go when they “naturally die.”
