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Inhabitat's Week in Green: NY Design Week, a hybrid Porsche and recycled sportswear

Inhabitat — Sun, 20 May 2012 20:30:00 EST

Each week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.

Want a sneak peek into the future of design? This week Inhabitat hit NY Design Week to uncover the best and the brightest in green interior and furniture design. At ICFF we spotted an ethereal series of 3D printed Hyphae lamps and we were wowed by the iTree -- a massive iPod sound system made out of an entire tree trunk! We also saw LED technology take on surprising new forms - like Light and Contrast's tiny flower-shaped lamps and Peteris Zilbers' quirky mood broom lamp (yes, it's shaped like a broom). We'll continue with the New York Design Week coverage throughout next week, so come back to Inhabitat in the coming days for more fresh new design finds, and read on beyond the break for more in the here and now.

Continue reading Inhabitat's Week in Green: NY Design Week, a hybrid Porsche and recycled sportswear

Inhabitat's Week in Green: NY Design Week, a hybrid Porsche and recycled sportswear originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 20 May 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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University of California, Riverside runs entire building floor off of 1.1-megawatt green battery

Jon Fingas — Fri, 11 May 2012 21:39:00 EST

We're used to batteries powering a lot of devices, but the University of California, Riverside is upping that a notch by charging up a whole floor's worth. The school's Winston Chung Global Energy Center is walking the eco-friendly walk and has started using a huge bank of rare earth, lithium-ion batteries from Balqon to produce 1.1 megawatts, enough to keep Winston Chung Hall's entire first floor humming along while tapping renewable energy sources like solar and wind power. The batteries bank their energy overnight, keeping the throngs of students happy without having to recharge as much or use the regular power grid as a fallback. While it's considered a testbed, the university's giant battery is considered a blueprint for cellular towers and the green power sources themselves -- the combination of which could keep your smartphone up and running with a lot less of an environmental hit.

[Thanks, Justin B]

University of California, Riverside runs entire building floor off of 1.1-megawatt green battery originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 11 May 2012 21:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sanya Skypump charges your EV, illuminates parking lots using wind and rays (video)

Zach Honig — Sun, 24 Jul 2011 19:24:00 EST

So you're the first person in town to adopt an electric vehicle (EV), even clearing room for that 240v charging station in the garage. But what do you when you venture far from home, edging past the 200 mile mark on your Tesla Roadster? Well, if the Sanya Skypump ever sees the light of day (from its 150-watt solar panel), the hybrid solar / wind turbine-powered charging station will be making its way to parking lots around the world, pairing with a GE WattStation to juice up your EV as you shop at the mall, or browse a certain tech site from the office. The WattStation can theoretically recharge your EV in four to eight hours, though we're not sure how those figures translate with this particular setup. The Skypump system is based on Sanya's Streetlamp, which you can see in all its twirling glory in the B.o.B. music video remix just past the break.

Continue reading Sanya Skypump charges your EV, illuminates parking lots using wind and rays (video)

Sanya Skypump charges your EV, illuminates parking lots using wind and rays (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 24 Jul 2011 19:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Google backs Alta Wind Energy Center, boasts $400 million clean energy milestone

Christopher Trout — Wed, 25 May 2011 08:12:00 EST

Google announced today that it's throwing $55 million dollars to the wind... energy, that is. A post to the official Google blog said the company has invested the aforementioned amount in the Alta Wind Energy Center, which is set to generate 1,550 megawatts of energy -- enough to reportedly power 450,000 homes -- from a batch of turbines in the Mojave Dessert. Developed by Terra-Gen Power, the operation will carry the resulting energy via transmission lines to "major population centers." The ever-humble internet giant pointed out that this particular injection of funds marks a total investment of $400 million in the clean energy sector. In fact, El Goog signed a deal last year to power several of its data centers with wind power, and most recently announced the opening of a seawater-cooled data center in Finland.

Google backs Alta Wind Energy Center, boasts $400 million clean energy milestone originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 25 May 2011 08:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Inhabitat's Week in Green: crazy concept cars, the Milan Furniture Fair, and new solar technology

Inhabitat — Sun, 17 Apr 2011 21:30:00 EST

Each week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.

The world of renewable energy received a jolt of innovation this week as Inhabitat reported on a groundbreaking new solar technology that could render photovoltaics obsolete -- see Engadget's take right here -- and a plan to use common oven rust to generate immense amounts of cheap energy. We also saw green power projects pick up steam around the world as Pakistan announced it will build its first on-grid solar system, Chevron kicked off plans to invest in wind power for Kazakhstan, and Eriksson Architects unveiled an energy-efficient geodesic gemstone city for China.

Green transportation tech blasted off as we took a look at the insane 23-passenger electric superbus that can hit 155MPH and the Phoenix roadster - the world's first biodegradable car. Volkswagen also turned heads as it unveiled an all-electric concept version of the classic VW Bus, and we saw sustainable transportation set sail as Zyvex unveiled the nanotech Piranha boat, which is 75% lighter, 40% stronger, and 400% more fuel-efficient than aluminum vessels. Finally, we showcased several hot new green vehicles as the Shanghai auto show began to rev up -- Luxgen's all-electric Neora concept car and Peugeot's Hybrid SXC.

In other news, this week we brought you the best and brightest green products from the 2011 Milan Furniture Fair - from an energy-absorbing lamp that never needs to be plugged in to the world's first color-changing OLED panels to a stunning pendant light made entirely from recycled drink cartons. We also showcased several designs for greener electronics - a revolutionary paper alloy that could enclose the gadgets of tomorrow and a gorgeous bamboo MacBook case - and we shared 7 ways to get your kid excited about photography.

Inhabitat's Week in Green: crazy concept cars, the Milan Furniture Fair, and new solar technology originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 17 Apr 2011 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Vestas unveils massive 7-megawatt offshore wind turbine (video)

Donald Melanson — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 12:29:00 EST

Building and putting any sort of offshore wind turbine into place is a fairly impressive bit of engineering, but Denmark's Vestas is truly going the extra mile with its new V164-7.0 MW turbine. Not only does it promise to provide seven megawatts of power but, as you can see above, each of the blades is longer than nine double-decker buses, which gives the turbine itself a larger total diameter than the London Eye. Of course, the company also hopes that there will eventually be not just a few of these, but massive farms of the turbines at sea (the North Sea, specifically), although that won't exactly happen overnight -- Vestas only expects to have the first prototypes ready by the end of 2012, with full production expected to begin in the first quarter of 2015. Head on past the break for a video -- don't worry, nothing like this happens.

[Thanks, Alex]

Continue reading Vestas unveils massive 7-megawatt offshore wind turbine (video)

Vestas unveils massive 7-megawatt offshore wind turbine (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 31 Mar 2011 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Solar Wind bridge concept could power 15,000 homes, grow vegetables

Donald Melanson — Mon, 07 Feb 2011 01:48:00 EST

Why just use solar power or wind power when you can use both? Designed by Francesco Colarossi, Giovanna Saracino and Luisa Saracino as part of an Italian design contest to re-imagine a decommissioned bridge (for which it placed second), this so-called Solar Wind concept would have solar cells embedded in the roadway (an idea that's already catching on) and an array of 26 wind turbines underneath, which the designers say could produce enough energy combined to power 15,000 homes. To make the design greener still, the designers have even included a "green promenade" that would run alongside the road, which they suggest could be used to grow fruits and vegetables that'd then be sold to folks driving by. Incidentally, while it's less focused on technology, the design that placed first in the contest (a so-called "vertical village") is pretty impressive in its own right -- check it out after the break.

Continue reading Solar Wind bridge concept could power 15,000 homes, grow vegetables

Solar Wind bridge concept could power 15,000 homes, grow vegetables originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 07 Feb 2011 01:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Inhabitat's Week in Green: self-sustaining airships, turbine base jumpers, and the Sahara's solar oasis

Inhabitat — Sun, 23 Jan 2011 21:00:00 EST

Each week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.

This week opened with the exciting news that Norway and Jordan signed an agreement create a flourishing solar oasis in the scorching Sahara Desert. India also made waves as they announced the first tidal plant in Asia, and we took a look at a novel wind power tech that eschews noisy turbines for piezoelectric pads. We also rounded up our favorite wind-powered gadgets that don't blow, and you won't believe the latest extreme sport: wind turbine base jumping!

In other news, green transportation took to the skies as we showcased a futuristic airship that generates its own fuel and a hydrogen-powered UAV that can stay aloft for up to a week. Meanwhile, back on earth we heard several major auto manufactures make exciting announcements as Chevrolet unveiled tech that could double the Volt's battery life and Toyota pulled back the curtain on an upgraded electric motor that requires less rare earth metals.

This week we also shined a light on the world of energy-efficient illumination with our Green Lighting 101 guide, and we were blinded by the brilliance of Mischer Traxler's repurposed Relumine desk lamps. Finally, from the realm of wearable tech we brought you the solar-powered Androcell backpack that backs up your data, and we tested a handy alphabet flash card app for tech-savvy tots.

Inhabitat's Week in Green: self-sustaining airships, turbine base jumpers, and the Sahara's solar oasis originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 23 Jan 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ocean Empire LSV is the self-sufficient superyacht for the super-rich

Joseph L. Flatley — Tue, 18 Jan 2011 18:36:00 EST

It looks like your luxury extra-national seafaring utopia just got one step closer to reality. The Ocean Empire Life Support Vessel is a 144-foot Catamaran Superyacht manufactured by Sauter Carbon Offset Design, and it features not only "all of the hotel amenities of a luxury global voyager" but two hydroponic farms and fishing facilities and three sustainable power sources: a 400 square meter 70kw solar array, an auxiliary 80 square meter (200kw) automated SkySail that drives the ship to 18+ knots and charges her battery systems, and a Motion Damping Regeneration (MDR) system developed with Maurer Sohnes Gmbh that can produce up to 50kw of electricity as it steadies the ship on rolling seas. How much will it cost you to take yourself, nine of your closest friends, and a crew of eight to the sea -- and remain there indefinitely? About $17 million. Hit the source link to order a couple for yourself. The vessel is built to order and you can have it ready to go in about eighteen months. At least it's cheaper than Saddam's yacht!

Ocean Empire LSV is the self-sufficient superyacht for the super-rich originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 18 Jan 2011 18:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Inhabitat's Week in Green: wind towers, viaduct power and how Four Loko will be recycled into gasoline

Inhabitat — Sun, 09 Jan 2011 23:59:00 EST

Each week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.

It was a monumental week for eco architecture as renewably-powered projects sprung up around the world. Japan unveiled plans for a massive new type of wind power tower, and we were wowed by a proposal to transform abandoned Italian viaducts into high-tech energy centers. We also showcased a solar-powered Dutch pavilion that can generate as much power as it consumes, and we were awestruck by one designer's plan for a crazy vertical skyscraper amusement park.

In other news, eco transportation blazed a trail as a student-designed solar car smashed a world speed record. The recently released Chevy Volt outsold the Nissan Leaf by a huge margin last month, and we took a look at a breakthrough battery tech that could enable electric vehicles to charge 40 times faster. We also saw efficient aviation take to the skies as Honda launched a new jet that consumes 20% less fuel than comparable planes, and speaking of jet fuel, this week we learned that banned Four Loko beverages are being recycled into engine-ready ethanol.

We also watched China light up the newswires with energy news as they announced the imminent construction of the world's largest solar plant and found a way extend the life of nuclear fuel by 60 times. Finally, this week we celebrated all of the hot new media tech at CES with a look at Lady Gaga's shutter-fly sunglasses, and we brought you a guide to how kids can use technology to create online media.

Inhabitat's Week in Green: wind towers, viaduct power and how Four Loko will be recycled into gasoline originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 09 Jan 2011 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Inhabitat's Week in Green: pencil-tip generators, the Nissan Leaf, and the world's largest wind turbine

Inhabitat — Mon, 06 Dec 2010 02:46:00 EST

Each week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.

This week we saw renewable energy take the world by storm as Spain announced plans to construct the world's largest wind turbine and a team of engineers made waves with plans for an underwater turbine modeled after whale flippers. We also saw Boeing shine light on plans to produce a new breed of ultra-efficient solar panels that are suited for space, while researchers in Japan developed a potent new kinetic generator that's as tiny as a pencil tip.

Innovative eco transportation also picked up the pace as China rolled out plans to produce the first fuel cell powered light rail train and the world's largest solar-powered boat made its successful maiden voyage across the Atlantic. We also applauded the Nissan Leaf as it took first place as the European Car of the Year and we were wowed by Mercedes' next-generation concept car, which may one day be grown in a lab.

We also showcased several new ways that technology stands to wire our lives -- starting with an electronic smart wallet that curbs spending by clamping shut like a clam. We also looked at Harvard's plans for a laptop computer powered by biogas and we were impressed by Nike's next-gen design tools for producing environmentally efficient clothes. Finally, we wrapped up the week with two exciting advances in tablet tech - India is testing a solar-powered I-Slate tablet geared at children in need and Substrata rolled out a gorgeous wooden iPad case that goes light on the earth.

Inhabitat's Week in Green: pencil-tip generators, the Nissan Leaf, and the world's largest wind turbine originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 06 Dec 2010 02:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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iFan concept uses gusts to power your iPhone, solve lingering reception issues

Darren Murph — Fri, 03 Dec 2010 10:03:00 EST

Still haven't found that case you've been looking for? At last, the promise land. Designer Tjeerd Veenhoven has crafted a partly nifty, partly hilarious new wind-powered iPhone charger / case, appropriately dubbed iFan. In theory, at least, this here case would wrap your iPhone up for protection and then catch wind gusts from wherever, in turn rejuvenating your phone as you talked and walked. There's even a bicycle attachment mockup for those who'd rather place it on their handlebars and kick things up a notch. Unfortunately, there's no word on whether the process can be reversed (i.e. if the blades can be turned into a battery-powered cooling machine when you're at full capacity), nor a hard on-sale date. But hey, at least there's no jailbreak requirement.

[Thanks, Man Yong Toh]

iFan concept uses gusts to power your iPhone, solve lingering reception issues originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Dec 2010 10:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Philadelphia Eagles going self-sufficient on stadium energy from 2011, 30 percent of it renewable

Vlad Savov — Fri, 19 Nov 2010 08:19:00 EST

Let's skip right past the cringe-worthy "Declaration of Energy Independence" slogan and look at what the Eagles are actually doing with their pro sports venue. The franchise that dresses in midnight green is aiming to smarten up its eco-green credentials with a new partnership with SolarBlue that will provide all of the Eagles' stadium energy needs for the next 20 years, after which point the team will be free to resell any surplus electricity back to the grid. 15 percent of the total output with be generated with spiral wind turbines erected around the top rim of Lincoln Financial Field, another 15 will come from 2,500 solar panels to be installed near the stadium, and the rest will be obtained from a biodiesel / natural gas plant. So it's not all renewable, but a nice step in the right direction, nonetheless.

Philadelphia Eagles going self-sufficient on stadium energy from 2011, 30 percent of it renewable originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 19 Nov 2010 08:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Inhabitat's Week in Green: of electric tractor unicycles, garbage-powered garbage trucks, and luminous nanoparticle trees

Inhabitat — Sun, 14 Nov 2010 21:00:00 EST

Each week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.

This week we were blinded by the light as researchers unveiled a way to transform city trees into luminous streetlights using gold nanoparticles. We also showcased a mesmerizing paper LED structure shaped like a tree at Tokyo Designers Week, and speaking of stellar architecture, check out this stunning star-shaped Taiwanese tower topped with a built-in wind turbine.

In other news, strap on your rollerblades and hang tight - from the Department of Questionable Transportation comes the FlyRad, an insane electric unicycle that pulls you down the street at 25 miles per hour. Meanwhile, the city of Toronto is doing their part to preserve the environment by rolling out a fleet of garbage trucks that can be powered by the very waste they collect. Finally, the University of Rhode Island signaled a bright future for efficient transportation as they unveiled four designs that could tap the United States' 2.7 million miles of roadways for solar energy.

This week we also looked at several new applications for futuristic manufacturing technologies - a dutch designer has pioneered a way to create 3D printed shoes that fit feet perfectly, and researchers have found that activated carbon cloth is a quicker picker-upper for toxic waste. Finally, with the holidays on their way, this week we rounded up our top ten green gadget gifts for 2010!

Inhabitat's Week in Green: of electric tractor unicycles, garbage-powered garbage trucks, and luminous nanoparticle trees originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 14 Nov 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Inhabitat's Week in Green: the world's largest laser fired, icy roof tiles admired, faucet lamps inspired

Inhabitat — Sun, 17 Oct 2010 20:00:00 EST

Each week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.

This week scientists took a step towards unlocking the holy grail of alternative energy as they unleashed a one megajoule test blast from the world's largest laser. We were also excited to see the DOI give the green light for the first solar-thermal power tower in the United States, and we saw big things brewing beneath West Virginia as a project funded by Google discovered massive geothermal vents that could double the state's energy generation capacity. Not to be outdone, Oregon announced plans for a 845 megawatt wind farm that stands to be the largest in the world.

We also watched the world of architecture heat up - literally - as Soltech unveiled a set of glimmering glass roof tiles that can capture solar energy to heat your home. We also checked in on the development of Masdar, the world's first carbon neutral zero-waste city, and we were shocked and appalled by the recently completed largest and most expensive house in the world.

In other news, this week we showcased a dazzling array of energy-efficient lights - from an amazing animated LED pillar to a set of liquid lights made from recycled faucets to a chandelier decked out with luminous dandelions. We also kicked up our heels for a vending machine that dispenses biodegradable shoes and we saw a set of ghetto-fabulous boom boxes made from old suitcases hit the streets. Finally, we rounded up a gaggle of our favorite smartphone games that are perfect for keeping kids entertained!

Inhabitat's Week in Green: the world's largest laser fired, icy roof tiles admired, faucet lamps inspired originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 17 Oct 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Google sinks cash into Atlantic Wind Connection offshore wind project

Darren Murph — Tue, 12 Oct 2010 14:01:00 EST

It's been said before, but seriously -- is there anything that Google won't invest in? The company that's also looking into ISPs, voice search and Pac-Manning its home page is now sinking a few billion (give or take) into an ambitious new offshore wind project. The move comes just months after inking a score-long deal to power data centers with wind energy, and Google's involvement is helping the Atlantic Wind Connection backbone move forward. In theory, this backbone will stretch 350 miles off the coast from New Jersey to Virginia and will be able to connect 6,000MW of offshore wind turbines, and the AP reports that the initial phase of the project will be capable of "delivering 2,000 megawatts of wind energy, or enough to power about 500,000 homes." Good Energies, Marubeni and Trans-Elect are also getting in on the action, with the aforesaid first phase to be completed by early 2016. Also, it's expected that the energy created from this endeavor will cost "several times more than conventional electricity," but obviously the Big G views this as a solid long-term investment.

Google sinks cash into Atlantic Wind Connection offshore wind project originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 12 Oct 2010 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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World's largest offshore wind farm spins into action off the coast of Britain

Vlad Savov — Thu, 23 Sep 2010 03:03:00 EST

They stretch up to two and a half times the height of Nelson's Column at Trafalgar Square, their number is close to a hundred, and their mission is to bring clean, renewable energy into British homes. Yes, we're talking about turbines. The latest wind farm to be erected near the Queen's most sovereign isles is said to be the largest in the world (for now) and promises to produce enough energy to keep 240,000 homes going -- the equivalent of half the county of Kent. It's part of the UK's grand plan to generate at least 20 percent of all its power needs through the taming of the winds and cost the Kingdom a cool £780 million ($1.2b) to build. That's admittedly a big bill to swallow, but there are worse things to blow your billions on... such as, say, the Millennium Dome.

Continue reading World's largest offshore wind farm spins into action off the coast of Britain

World's largest offshore wind farm spins into action off the coast of Britain originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 23 Sep 2010 03:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Inhabitat's Week in Green: Honeycomb skyscrapers, solar funnels, and the Karma PHEV supercar

Inhabitat — Sun, 19 Sep 2010 21:20:00 EST

Each week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.

High tech architecture took the spotlight this week as Aedas unveiled a set of photovoltaic crystalline honeycomb skyscrapers for Abu Dhabi and San Francisco unfurled plans for a sail-shaped solar stadium for the America's Cup yacht race. We also took an exclusive look inside a high-tech solar home that actually produces more energy than it consumes, and spotted a new technology that can transform any home's electrical wiring into an information-transmitting antenna.

We also showcased some of the world's most efficient vehicles as the winners of the $10 million Automotive X-Prize were announced, and we were excited to hear that the first factory-built Fisker Karma supercar will be rolling up to the Paris Auto Show next month. Finally, we peek inside Jay Leno's envy-inducing green garage in this week's episode of Green Overdrive.

In other news, MIT made waves on the renewable energy front as they revealed a new "solar funnel" technology that could increase the efficiency of photovoltaic cells 100 times. We also took a first look at Eddy GT's new streamlined city-friendly wind turbine, and we saw Tesla batteries jump-start residential solar systems by storing excess energy.

Inhabitat's Week in Green: Honeycomb skyscrapers, solar funnels, and the Karma PHEV supercar originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 19 Sep 2010 21:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Inhabitat's Week in Green: Tesla's Roadster 2.5, the world's smallest electric plane, and solar jellyfish goo

Inhabitat — Sun, 12 Sep 2010 21:00:00 EST

Each week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.

From the deep blue seas to the sunny skies, this week novel renewable energy projects lit up the newswires. We watched as the world's largest wave energy site was installed in the UK, and we were excited to see Europe's largest wind farm get a major upgrade. We also took a look at several high-flying turbines that could potentially tap 870 terawatts of high-altitude wind energy, and we were shocked to see scientists develop a new type of solar cell made from bioluminescent jellyfish.

We also showcased several soaring advances in green aviation as the Solar Impulse sun-powered airplane rallied for a series of trips across Switzerland and Cri-Cri, the wold's smallest electric plane, took its inaugural flight. Electric transportation also hit the streets as we took a spin in Tesla's brand new Roadster 2.5.

In other news, this week we saw the light as Hulger brought their stunningly sculpted Plumen bulbs to market, and we marveled at a fresh new solar panel-inspired clothing line and a photovoltaic roofing system that doesn't look like a Blade Runner prop. Finally, we celebrated the last days of summer with this awesome solar Ibex cooker that bakes and boils using the power of the sun.

Inhabitat's Week in Green: Tesla's Roadster 2.5, the world's smallest electric plane, and solar jellyfish goo originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 12 Sep 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Inhabitat's Week in Green: lenses that magnify wind, spider silk bacteria, and the largest solar sports facility

Inhabitat — Sun, 08 Aug 2010 22:30:00 EST

Each week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.

This week Inhabitat showcased the best and brightest new developments from the world of clean tech. Stanford opened up new horizons for renewable energy as they unveiled a solar technology that can harvest electricity from both heat and light -- a significant improvement over photovoltaics, whose efficiency wilts in the sun. We also looked at Pocono Raceway, the recently-crowned world's largest solar-powered sports facility, and an innovative new type of "Wind Lens" turbine that could increase energy generation by a magnitude of three times.

We also saw green tech take to the skies as Boeing unveiled a super-efficient airplane that could cut fuel consumption by 70% and scientists floated a plan to create gigantic orbiting balloons that could solve our space junk problem. It was a big week for alternative autos as well -- Paris announced that it will be launching its Autolib electric car sharing program next year, and a poo-powered VW Bug burned... rubber on the streets of Bristol.

In other news, we showcased an ultra-efficient Danish home that produces more energy than it needs. Future-forward biotech couture was a hot topic as well as scientists found a way to produce spider silk from metabolically engineered bacteria. And we couldn't help but want to share these adorable and amazingly detailed little LEGO CubeDudes created by PIXAR animator Angus MacLane.

Inhabitat's Week in Green: lenses that magnify wind, spider silk bacteria, and the largest solar sports facility originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 08 Aug 2010 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Inhabitat's Week in Green: solar surpasses nuclear, sewage-fueled rockets and the world's largest turbine

Inhabitat — Sun, 01 Aug 2010 21:00:00 EST

Each week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.

It was an exciting week for renewable energy, as Inhabitat reported the news that solar energy has trumped nuclear power in terms of cost for the first time! We also looked at two innovative new wind turbine designs - the supermassive Aerogenerator, which at 10MW stands to be the world's largest, and the diminutive home-focused Honeywell turbine, which will be hitting store shelves next month.

Green transportation also received a big boost this week as Stanford researchers revealed a way to transform raw sewage into rocket fuel. Meanwhile, Santiago Calatrava heralded a new era for efficient transportation as he unveiled his awe-inspiring new rail station for the Denver International Airport. And with the summer heat embroiling cities across the states, we're daydreaming of slipping away to sea aboard this sleek solar Delta yacht.

In other news, wearable technology is changing the way we change our underwear -- odor-absorbing astronaut undies have finally hit the shelves. We were also impressed by a new breed of 3d-printed textiles that may one day make needles and threads obsolete. Finally, in the spirit of summer this week we showcased 6 innovative designs that harness the power of play - from energy generating soccer balls to water-pumping merry go-rounds.

Inhabitat's Week in Green: solar surpasses nuclear, sewage-fueled rockets and the world's largest turbine originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 01 Aug 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Terra-Gen lands major funding, expects to complete America's largest wind farm next year

Darren Murph — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 09:46:00 EST

And you thought that 1,000 megawatt wind farm planned for Lake Erie was going to be huge. Terra-Gen Power recently secured a staggering $1.2 billion in construction financing, which it fully intends to use on 3D projectors, PlayStation 3 consoles and parts necessary to build America's largest wind farm. Granted, only one of those points is actually true, but we suspect you're hanging with us. The latest round of cash will help build four wind power projects with a total of 570 megawatts of capacity at the company's Alta Wind Energy Center in Kern County, California. But when you put that with projects already in motion, you're left with a 3,000MW wind power initiative, which should be completed and operational "in the first and second quarters of 2011." So, anyone feeling up to topping this?

Continue reading Terra-Gen lands major funding, expects to complete America's largest wind farm next year

Terra-Gen lands major funding, expects to complete America's largest wind farm next year originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 26 Jul 2010 09:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Inhabitat's Week in Green: fuel efficiency flies high, turbines touch the sky, and salt that stores sunlight

Inhabitat — Sun, 25 Jul 2010 22:00:00 EST

Each week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.

This week Inhabitat brought you a surge of renewable energy news as groundbreaking projects supercharged every corner of the world. London officially crowned the first skyscraper with built-in wind turbines while Sicily generated solar power in the dead of night with the world's first solar plant that stores energy using molten salt. And speaking of solar power, China is heating things up with the largest building-integrated photovoltaic plant on the planet.

In transportation news, we scored an exclusive interview with auto manufacturer Edison2, who is currently coming up aces with three ultra-efficient vehicles in the final stages of the Progressive Auto X Prize -- and we watched high-tech aviation soar to new heights as Airbus unveiled its vision for a fuel-efficient aircraft of the future.

Finally, we were wowed by the world's first biomass consuming robot, which actually eats, excretes, and can run for a whole week unsupervised. If you're thinking "I can do that" then we encourage you to try - why not start training with this exercise-inducing treadmill desk? Don't forget to wear your spiffy glow-in-the-dark performance wear; your co-workers will love it.

Inhabitat's Week in Green: fuel efficiency flies high, turbines touch the sky, and salt that stores sunlight originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 25 Jul 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Google signs 20-year deal to power data centers with wind energy

Donald Melanson — Tue, 20 Jul 2010 15:45:00 EST

It's not the first investment Google has made in wind power, but anyone wondering about its commitment needn't look any further than the company's just-announced deal with NextEra Energy. It's agreed to buy wind power from NextEra's wind farm in Iowa for the next twenty years, which it says will provide enough power to supply "several" of its data centers. What's more, Google says that the size and length of the deal (taking 114 megawatts of energy off the market) will also lead to other indirect benefits for the wind power industry, and give NextEra the flexibility to invest in additional clean energy projects. Head on past the break for NextEra's press release on the deal.

Continue reading Google signs 20-year deal to power data centers with wind energy

Google signs 20-year deal to power data centers with wind energy originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 20 Jul 2010 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Wind farm announced for Lake Erie, could produce 1,000 megawatts by 2020

Joseph L. Flatley — Mon, 24 May 2010 14:01:00 EST

Wind farms have started popping up around the states -- including one off Rehoboth Beach -- and if the Lake Erie Energy Development Corp has its way, twenty megawatts of power will be generated off the coast of Ohio beginning in late 2012. The direct drive wind turbines, each generating four megawatts of power, will be supplied and maintained by General Electric, who designed them especially for off-shore use. Subsequent projects are also in the works by the dynamic duo, with the eventual goal of 1,000 megawatts by 2020 -- by which time the Insane Clown Posse will be eligible for the Rock'N'Roll Hall of Fame and the United States will have its first Juggalo President. PR after the break.

Continue reading Wind farm announced for Lake Erie, could produce 1,000 megawatts by 2020

Wind farm announced for Lake Erie, could produce 1,000 megawatts by 2020 originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 May 2010 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mitsubishi and Tokyo Institute of Tech pair up to stop wasteful late-night windmills

Tim Stevens — Mon, 10 May 2010 15:16:00 EST

Ever see a windmill spinning at night? Probably not, since it's usually quite dark, but if you ever do, you could be looking at wasted energy. Utility companies often won't purchase evening wind power because the low demand is easily met by idling traditional facilities. Mitsubishi and the Tokyo Institute of Technology are devising a means to take that otherwise unwanted wind power and shove it straight into your electric car's battery, detecting which vehicles are plugged into the grid and ducting that juice straight to 'em so that they're bright-eyed and bushy-tailed in the morning. Don't have an EV yet? That's okay -- this tech is at least a few years off, too.

Mitsubishi and Tokyo Institute of Tech pair up to stop wasteful late-night windmills originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 10 May 2010 15:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Inhabitat's Week in Green: salad spinners, diapers, and solutions to the Deepwater catastrophe

Inhabitat — Mon, 10 May 2010 03:42:00 EST

The Week in Green is a new item from our friends at Inhabitat, recapping the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us.

This week renewable energy received a giant jolt forward as Google unveiled plans to invest $40 million in North Dakota wind farms. Solar power is also having a moment in the sun as MIT unveiled the world's first solar cells printed on paper - we can't wait to see a post-it version that we can stick to our walls! Meanwhile a team of Swiss researchers are harnessing rays of light for an entirely different purpose -- they've figured out a way to create rain clouds by shooting laser beams into the sky.

With the Deepwater Horizon oil spill still saturating the sea weeks after the leak sprung, we also looked at an array of innovative solutions for cleaning up the catastrophe. The first step to stemming the spill's damage is predicting its spread, which is why scientists are harnessing advanced virtual reality models to aid in cleanup efforts. We also took a look at the BP's first massive oil containment dome, which the company plans to lower 5,000 feet below the sea to plug up the leak.

This week we also looked at several ingenious inventions that find incredible new uses for everyday items. Two students at Rice University have transformed a simple salad spinner into a centrifuge that can save lives by diagnosing diseases, and a Japanese company called Super Faith has invented a machine that can transform used adult diapers into an energy source.

Finally, we were dazzled by two high-tech garments that harness LEDs to light up the night. Katy Perry recently took to the red carpet wearing a shimmering gown studded with thousands of blinking rainbow lights, and we were impressed by this LED-laden coat that keeps bicyclists safe when they hit the streets at night.

Inhabitat's Week in Green: salad spinners, diapers, and solutions to the Deepwater catastrophe originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 10 May 2010 03:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Inhabitat's Week in Green: wind power, shoe power, and the world's largest laser

Inhabitat — Sun, 02 May 2010 19:00:00 EST

The Week in Green is a new item from our friends at Inhabitat, recapping the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us.

This week Inhabitat showcased several smart new technologies that harness clean green energy from unexpected (and undeniably awesome) sources. Volcanoes may be the bane of air travel as of late, but Indonesia has hatched a plan to harness their geothermal might to produce 4,000 megawatts of power. Meanwhile The Netherlands is turning the tide on hydroelectric power by upgrading their dikes with energy generating underwater turbines.

In other news, harnessing energy from stars may seem like an out-of-this-world proposition, but that's precisely what scientists are attempting to achieve as they fire up the world's largest laser in an attempt to grasp the holy grail of energy: nuclear fusion. And speaking of out-of-this-world developments, this week Japan announced plans to launch its solar "Ikaros" spacecraft, which will sail through the stars using rays of light.

While keeping stride with these developments we also looked at several innovative technologies that stand to shape the future of consumer tech. Looking to put some punch in your step? Then try these energy generating piezoelectric shoes on for size. We also brought an eye-opening new night vision technology to light that is so thin, lightweight, and cheap that it can integrated directly into eyeglasses, car windows, and cell phone cameras. Even our canine friends are getting high-tech upgrades -- check out this geo-tagging rescue dog jacket that can be used by people in peril to transmit emergency messages.

Finally, this weekend marks the start of the 2010 Shanghai World Expo, which we're celebrating by showcasing the top six futuristic pavilions that harness high-tech green building strategies. But if you only check out one, make it the amazing interactive Dream Cube, which is made from recycled CD cases and features a stunning LED-laden facade that changes color with a wave of the hand.

Inhabitat's Week in Green: wind power, shoe power, and the world's largest laser originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 02 May 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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HP opens wind-cooled, rain-collecting data center

Vlad Savov — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 09:23:00 EST

You know, as much as we love our complex high-minded gadgets, we've always had a soft spot for simple, low-tech solutions to the problems posed by modernity. To wit, check out HP's latest data center, which is strategically located in a blustery part of northeast England and avoids costly and energy-sapping cooling systems in favor of good old wind cooling. Equipped with eight 2.1-meter (just under seven feet) intake fans and a bank of contaminant filters, the Wynyard facility is purpose-built for the circulation of cold external air through and around the servers within. It's said to be HP's most efficient data center yet, and its natural cooling solution is estimated to save a healthy £2.6 million ($4.07 million) in annual energy bills. A couple other optimizations bear mentioning too -- such as the rainwater collection which is used to humidify the air if it's too dry, and the choice of lighter-colored servers racks, which saves on lighting costs inside. Hit the source link to learn more.

HP opens wind-cooled, rain-collecting data center originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Feb 2010 09:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Helix Wind launching wind-powered cellphone tower trials in US and Africa

Laura June — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 12:52:00 EST

Helix Wind, a company that produces some very distinctive-looking wind turbines, is getting ready to start new trials in the US and Africa. These trials will involve testing the vertical wind turbines as a source of power for cellphone towers in areas where they may be off the grid, and carry much higher operating costs. The turbines should produce enough energy to power the cellphone towers, and pay for themselves within about six months. The trials are set to start at the end of the month with local Nigerian provider Eltek NSG as a main participant.

[Via Inhabitat]

Filed under: Culture

Helix Wind launching wind-powered cellphone tower trials in US and Africa originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 01 Oct 2009 12:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Helix Wind launching wind-powered cellphone tower trials in US and Africa

Laura June — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 12:52:00 EST

Filed under: Cellphones

Helix Wind launching wind-powered cellphone tower trials in US and Africa originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 01 Oct 2009 12:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Baryonyx to build largest offshore wind farms in the US, power massive data centers

Darren Murph — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 08:27:00 EST

Uh oh Mr. Pickens -- looks like you've got some competition down in Texas. With the aforesaid energy baron scraping plans to plant 687 massive wind turbines in Texas' panhandle, Baryonyx has stepped in to do the honors via a slightly different project. Just this past week, Baryonyx won a bid to create a pair of sizable offshore wind farms that Jerry Patterson -- Commissioner of the Texas General Land Office -- says "could be the biggest offshore wind farms in the nation." Additionally, another lease was granted for a prospective wind energy development in the panhandle, and now the company is eager to get going on the green energy gigs. The best part of this whole plan involves that actual purpose of the turbines; aside from providing juice for grids, they'll also be used to energize forthcoming Tier 4 server farms, with a minimum of 750 megawatts of power being pumped to two coastal areas all the while. Ma Earth would be proud.

[Via CNET]

Read - Baryonyx announcement [PDF]
Read - Patterson announcement [PDF]

Filed under: Science

Baryonyx to build largest offshore wind farms in the US, power massive data centers originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 23 Jul 2009 08:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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T. Boone Pickens scouting new home for $2 billion wind farm

Darren Murph — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 15:04:00 EST

It's true that everything really is more colossal in Texas, but unfortunately, it seems as if the planet's largest wind farm won't be adding to the collection. Just over a year after energy baron T. Boone Pickens announced plans to plant 687 gigantic wind turbines in Texas' panhandle, he's now scraping those intentions and actively looking for a new location to energize. The problem lies in the difficulty of getting 4,000 megawatts of power from Texas to the power distribution system, and now he's being forced to find a massive plot of land that's closer to said channels. There's no word yet on where Mr. Pickens is looking, but considering that even his garage isn't large enough to house the turbines (which have already been ordered, mind you), we'd guess that he'll settle on a new tract in short order.

Filed under: Misc. Gadgets

T. Boone Pickens scouting new home for $2 billion wind farm originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 08 Jul 2009 15:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Wind-powered vehicle hits 126MPH, nabs world record

Darren Murph — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 23:11:00 EST

Sorry Mr. Schumacher, but your ten year record just got obliterated (okay, "beat soundly") by a Briton. On the dry, dusty plains of Ivanpah Lake in Nevada, Sir Richard Jenkins managed to perfectly harness winds of 30MPH in his futuristic Ecotricity Greenbird in order to hit a ridiculously quick 126.1MPH. In all honestly, we can't even fathom how you hit that speed with just 30MPH of wind, but clearly we're not up to speed when it comes to physics and engineering. At any rate, the milestone is pretty important for Ecotricity, which is trying to make wind power the go-to alternative energy source within the next score. Now, if only we could figure out a cheap and easy way to generate wind on demand, we'd really be onto something.

[Via BBC]

Filed under: Transportation

Wind-powered vehicle hits 126MPH, nabs world record originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 27 Mar 2009 23:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Kinesis K2 solar / wind charger hands-on: Captain Planet approved

Ross Miller — Sat, 10 Jan 2009 06:27:00 EST

Kinesis' K2 solar / wind charger will power any USB device and is guaranteed to disappoint people mistaking it for a handheld fan. Of course, if you're feeling less environmental, feel free plug it into an AC outlet to reenergize the thing. Anticipating popular demand, we've put video after the break.

Gallery: Kinesis K2 solar / wind charger hands-on: Captain Planet approved, in theory

[Via OhGizmo!]

Continue reading Kinesis K2 solar / wind charger hands-on: Captain Planet approved

Filed under: Misc. Gadgets

Kinesis K2 solar / wind charger hands-on: Captain Planet approved originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 10 Jan 2009 06:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New wind turbines at least 30% more efficient, Earth one step closer to salvation

Samuel Axon — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 08:29:00 EST

Still addicted to oil like the rest of the world? You might reconsider wind power rehab now that a startup called ExRo has developed turbines that it says are consistently 30% -- and in some situations as much as 100% -- more efficient than the standard kind. The traditionally-used mechanical transmissions have been replaced with an inexpensive electric alternative that can adapt to changes in wind speed more efficiently. Also, many small generators are used instead of a large one, so the turbines can be customized in production to suit the intended installation site. If this is the real deal, it beats the 0.1% increase we saw in solar cell efficiency a few months ago, and those Maglev uber-turbines are still on the horizon. Hey Sun -- jealous yet?

[Via DailyTech]

Filed under: Misc. Gadgets

New wind turbines at least 30% more efficient, Earth one step closer to salvation originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 20 Nov 2008 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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DSe Hybrid yacht is super eco-friendly, totally unaffordable

Laura June — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 11:58:00 EST

Yachts are usually pretty environmentally unsound, so the DSe Hybrid just debuted by Island Pilot at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show should be a real breath of fresh air (literally) if green is your thing. And apparently it's really about as eco-friendly as it gets -- using a combination of diesel, solar and electric power (when it goes into commercial production it will also boast wind turbines) the vessel can cruise at up to six knots on a sunny day for an indefinite period of time without any fuel and zero emissions. Possibly best of all (for those like us with delicate ears, anyway), it's virtually silent when not running on fuel. If you need to get somewhere in a hurry however, its Parallel Hybrid Propulsion System in diesel mode will move at up to 13 knots. There are all sorts of "luxury" amenities on board including a 26-inch HDTV and totally ferocious Bose home theater system. Island Pilot is taking pre-orders now (you have to lay down $5,000 just to reserve one) for delivery in 2009, but fair warning: this thing has a price tag of $600,000.

[Via gizmag]

Filed under: Transportation

DSe Hybrid yacht is super eco-friendly, totally unaffordable originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 03 Nov 2008 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dutch scientists develop kite power system with enough juice for 10 homes

Nilay Patel — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 18:03:00 EST

Sure, the Netherlands might be known for its windmills, but a group of scientists at the Delft University of Technology is aiming to harness the wind in a different way: by using kites to generate electricity. A recent test generated 10 kilowatts, or enough juice to power 10 homes, and the plan is to eventually send an array of kites called the Laddermill up to 30,000 feet in order to generate nearly 10 megawatts of power. Of course, that's all in the future -- for now, we've just got two dudes, a kite, and a pretty dry video after the break.

[Via Inhabitat]

Continue reading Dutch scientists develop kite power system with enough juice for 10 homes

Filed under: Misc. Gadgets

Dutch scientists develop kite power system with enough juice for 10 homes originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 05 Aug 2008 18:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Texas wind power initiative to blow other states away

Darren Murph — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 06:16:00 EST

Oh sure, Rock Port, Missouri managed to snag the title of being "100% wind powered," but Texas' new plan will make the Show Me state's gusty initiatives look awfully weak. Officials at the Public Utility Commission recently okayed a plan to "build billions of dollars worth of new transmission lines to bring pollution-free energy from West Texas to urban areas." The ginormous Lone Star state is already the nation's leader in wind power, but when said plan is fully implemented (pending final approval), it'll produce more wind energy than the next closest 14 states combined. Granted, customers will be paying a touch more ($4 per month is the current estimate) for all this clean energy, but pundits assert that the cost is minor when looking at just how much this will help out Mother Earth. Look for everything to go live in four to five years, barring any unforeseen setbacks.

[Thanks, Adam]

Filed under: Misc. Gadgets

Texas wind power initiative to blow other states away originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 18 Jul 2008 06:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ricoh erecting 47 x 126-foot solar and wind-powered billboard in Times Square

Joshua Fruhlinger — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 13:28:00 EST

Ever walk through Times Square and wonder how much electricity all those flashy billboards are soaking up? No? Well, Ricoh has, and now they're doing something about it. Ricoh Company Ltd. of Tokyo is erecting a 47 x 126-foot billboard at Seventh Avenue and 42nd Street that will be completely powered by the sun and wind. Fueled by 45 solar panels and four wind turbines, the billboard won't even need a backup electric generator. On days that the sun and wind aren't enough to power it, it will simply go dark. In the end, the billboard is said to reduce carbon dioxide usage by 18 tons a year. The billboard will go live in December, or just in time for the sun to go dark.

Filed under: Misc. Gadgets

Ricoh erecting 47 x 126-foot solar and wind-powered billboard in Times Square originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 03 Jul 2008 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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