Technology:
¶ Hybrid solar cells, which combine both organic and inorganic semiconductors, have long been researched, but do not have much power output. Now, researchers at Vanderbilt University have found that the addition of a protein extracted from spinach provides a large increase in power. [NBCNews.com]
¶ Robots might save the cost of solar electricity by adjusting solar panels to face the sun. In a large solar array, it can be less costly than giving each panel an independent tracking system. [Forbes]
Japan:
¶ The Japanese Government estimates ending nuclear power in that country by 2030 will require investing ¥50 trillion ($638 billion) on other power sources. That is about $37.5 billion per year. [The Japan Times]
… The average residential electric bill will increase would be from about $124 to $259 per month, according to the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry, which is the most vocal supporter of nuclear power in the Japanese government. [Wall Street Journal]
World:
¶ A small fuel cell CHP system is up and running in Güssing, Austria. [Cogeneration & On-site Power Production Magazine]
¶ Levels of methane in the atmosphere are declining, despite increases in drilling activity. It is believed that better controls may be the cause. [Environmental Expert]
US:
¶ The State of New York says the Indian Point nuclear plant is unnecessary. The Independent Systems Operator was reported to have drawn the opposite conclusion (see August 28 Energy News), but a close reading of their conclusions, and the fact that they are constrained not to base those conclusions on expectations of new power sources, shows they may agree with the state. [newjerseynewsroom.com]
¶ The Electricity Reliability Council of Texas sees solar as a solution to brownouts and blackouts that peak demand has caused during hot times in recent summers. [Austinist]
¶ The Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources has adopted the final Massachusetts Renewable Portfolio Standard Class I regulations. It is defining classifications of waste and implementing changes on eligibility and use. [Waste Management World]
¶ US utility, Direct Energy, is offering its customers the option of buying electricity that is 100% renewably produced. [NewNet]
¶ A group of young Republicans, Young Conservatives for Energy Reform, is trying to change the party’s stands on energy, decreasing dependency on fossil fuels for the sake of both security and prosperity. [Inside Climate News]
¶ A new utility in Georgia will build a solar farm to replace a closing coal plant, if the laws giving a monopoly on electrical generation to the coal plant owner can be changed. [Revmodo]
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