Atmospheric ‘Sunshade’ Could Reduce Solar Power Generation
March 19, 2009 by John Pickstone
The concept of delaying global warming by adding particles into the upper atmosphere to cool the climate could unintentionally reduce peak electricity generated by large solar power plants by as much as one-fifth, according to a new NOAA study. The findings appear in this week’s issue of Environmental Science and Technology.
“Injecting particles into the stratosphere could have unintended consequences for one alternative energy source expected to play a role in the transition away from fossil fuels,” said author Daniel Murphy, a scientist at NOAA’s Earth System Research Laboratory in Boulder, Colo.
The world’s largest solar power facility, located near Kramer Junction, Calif., consists of five Solar Electric Generating
Stations and covers more than 1,000 acres.
The Earth is heating up as fossil-fuel burning produces carbon dioxide, the primary heat-trapping gas responsible for man-made climate change. To counteract the effect, some geoengineering proposals are designed to slow global warming by shading the Earth from sunlight.
Among the ideas being explored is injecting small particles into the upper atmosphere to produce a climate cooling similar to that of large volcanic eruptions, such as Mt. Pinatubo’s in 1991. Airborne sulfur hovering in the stratosphere cooled the Earth for about two years following that eruption.
Murphy found that particles in the stratosphere reduce the amount and change the nature of the sunlight that strikes the Earth. Though a fraction of the incoming sunlight bounces back to space (the cooling effect), a much larger amount becomes “diffuse” or scattered light.
On average, for every watt of sunlight the particles reflect away from the Earth, another three watts of direct sunlight are converted to diffuse sunlight. Large power-generating solar plants that concentrate sunlight for maximum efficiency depend solely on direct sunlight and cannot use diffuse light.
Murphy verified his calculations using long-term NOAA observations of direct and diffuse sunlight before and after the 1991 eruption.
After the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo, peak power output of Solar Electric Generating Stations in California, the largest collective of solar power plants in the world, fell by up to 20 percent, even though the stratospheric particles from the eruption reduced total sunlight that year by less than 3 percent.
“The sensitivity of concentrating solar systems to stratospheric particles may seem surprising,” said Murphy. “But because these systems use only direct sunlight, increasing stratospheric particles has a disproportionately large effect on them.”
Nine Solar Electric Generating Stations operate in California and more are running or are under construction elsewhere in the world. In sunny locations such systems, which use curved mirrors or other concentrating devices, generate electricity at a lower cost than conventional photovoltaic, or solar, cells.
Flat photovoltaic and hot water panels, commonly seen on household roofs, use both diffuse and direct sunlight. Their energy output would decline much less than that from concentrating systems.
Even low-tech measures to balance a home’s energy, such as south-facing windows for winter heat and overhangs for summer shade, would be less effective if direct sunlight is reduced.
NOAA understands and predicts changes in the Earth’s environment, from the depths of the ocean to the surface of the sun, and conserves and manages our coastal and marine resources.
Relevant Web Sites
- Murphy D. M. (2009), Effect of Stratospheric Aerosols on Direct Sunlight and Implications for Concentrating Solar Power, Environmental Science and Technology, doi:10.1021/es802206b.
- Article Source, http://www.esrl.noaa.gov/news/2009/aerosol_implications_for_solar_power.html
Cambridgeshire Renewable Energy Online Survey Launched
March 18, 2009 by John Pickstone
Renewables East and Cambridgeshire Horizons has launched an online consultation inviting people who live and work in Cambridgeshire to comment on the use of renewable energy in the new communities planned for the area.
73,300 new homes are due to be built in Cambridgeshire between 2001 and 2021, and renewable energy technologies - small and large scale - are due to play an important part in making the county more sustainable and low carbon.
The online consultation, developed by Consense, enables visitors to read about the sustainability targets for the region, learn about a variety of renewable and low carbon technologies and complete a consultation questionnaire giving their opinion on the future role of renewables.
It also features an Interactive Energy Plan, demonstrating how various renewable technologies - including wind power, biomass CCHP and solar PV - could be deployed in a hypothetical community. An Interactive House shows how various low carbon design features, such as passive solar and air tightness; plus a range of renewable technologies can be used for individual households.
www.cambridgeshireenergysurvey.co.uk
2008 Car CO2 emmision figures down 4.2% against 2007
March 17, 2009 by John Pickstone
CO2 emissions from new cars fell by their biggest ever margin in 2008 with the average model now emitting just 158.0g/km - 4.2% less than the 2007 figure and 16.8% down on the 189.8g/km base level in 1997.
The figures, revealed in the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders’ (SMMT) annual New Car CO2 Report, showed that while the number of cars on the road and the distance travelled has increased, their share of totalUK emissions continues to fall. Cars now account for just 11.5% of the country’s total CO2 emissions, largely as a result of new technology, improved fuel consumption rates and better consumer awareness.
CO2 emissions have fallen across all market segments with the larger end of the market making some of the biggest improvements. In addition, increased consumer awareness and changes to vehicle taxation have resulted in a move towards ‘best in class’ choices with most consumers opting to buy a model with CO2emissions within the bottom quarter of their preferred segment’s range.
“The motor industry has made enormous progress in its work to cut the environmental impact of its products but more must be done if the tough targets set by European legislation are to be met,” said SMMT chief executive Paul Everitt. “Maintaining a steady rate of fleet renewal is vital to this success so the recent fall in new car registrations presents more than an economic challenge. Again, we urge government to implement a scrappage incentive scheme to take older, high-emitting cars off the road and boost the new car market.”
The adoption of the new car CO2 regulation in December 2008 set a phase-in target for vehicle manufacturers to ensure their average fleet emissions do not exceed 130g/km by 2015. In the UK, there are already 236 models emitting less than 130g/km on the UK market but for the target to be met, an annual improvement of 2.5% per year must be maintained.
For more, please download the full report
Waterways provide a flow of renewable energy
March 16, 2009 by John Pickstone
British Waterways has announced an agreement with The Small Hydro Company Ltd to generate 210,000 mega watt hours of renewable energy per annum using the public corporation’s 2,200 mile waterway network. The initiative will:
- invest around c.£120 million of private capital over the next three years;
- develop approximately 25 small-scale hydro electricity schemes generating enough power for c.40,000 homes;
- create 150 construction jobs;
- save an annual 110,000 tonnes of CO2.
Backed by Climate Change Capital’s Ventus Fund, the process of gaining consents for the first five hydro schemes alongside river weirs will begin later this month. The proposals will enhance waterway biodiversity as well as providing improved flood mitigation for local communities.
The partnership with The Small Hydro Company follows British Waterways’ announcement in October 2008, of an agreement with Partnerships for Renewables to bring forward wind turbines on canal-side land over the next five years – with annual capacity to generate 219,000 mega watt hours of renewable energy. Income that British Waterways generates from both initiatives will be reinvested towards maintaining the nation’s historic waterways.
Energy and Climate Change Secretary, Ed Miliband MP said: “By committing to build small hydro power stations and wind turbines, British Waterways is playing an important role in generating renewable energy from the UK’s natural resources. This will help cut carbon emissions and further secure energy supplies. We want even more homes, communities, businesses and public sector organisations to take action and play their part in tackling climate change. The Renewables Obligation already supports renewable electricity generation and from 2010 we’ll be introducing a feed-in tariff which will reward projects like this with guaranteed cash payments.”
Hilary Benn, Environment Secretary said: “Britain’s waterways were the arteries of our economy, providing transport and power. This scheme shows how with ingenuity and innovation they can once again deliver real economic, social, and environmental benefits, especially in tackling and adapting to climate change.”
The Small Hydro Company will now start a programme of community engagement alongside the process of seeking the necessary environmental and planning consents, with the aim of having the first schemes up and running in 2010 to help meet the government’s 2010 hydro renewable targets.
Clean technology venture investment reaches record $8.4 billion in 2008 despite credit crisis and broadening recession
March 13, 2009 by John Pickstone
Even with diminished 4Q08 results, clean technology investment fundamentals remain strong.
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The Cleantech Group™, founders of the clean technology investment category and providers of leading global market research and other services for the clean technology ecosystem, today announced preliminary 2008 results for clean technology venture investments in North America, Europe, China and India totaling a record $8.4 billion, up 38% from $6.1 billion in 2007. The 2008 total represents the seventh consecutive year of growth in venture investing, widely recognized as a leading indicator of overall investment patterns:
Preliminary results for 4Q08 indicate venture investment commitments worldwide of $1.7 billion across 99 disclosed investments, the smallest quarterly total in 6 quarters. 4Q08 was down 35% from 3Q08, yet down only 4% from 4Q07 despite a much more difficult economy. The top clean technology sectors in 2008 were solar, biofuels, transportation, and wind. Solar accounted for almost 40% of total clean technology investment dollars in 2008, followed by biofuels at 11%. “2008 saw solar take a 40% share of clean technology venture investment dollars, led by mega-investment rounds in thin-film solar, concentrated solar thermal and solar service provider companies,” said Brian Fan, Senior Director of Research, Cleantech Group. “Investors also continued to migrate from first-generation ethanol and biodiesel technologies to next-generation biofuels technologies, led by algae and synthetic biology companies. Other sectors with healthy investor interest included smart grid companies, small-scale wind turbines, plastics recycling, green buildings and agriculture technologies.”
EUROPE AND ISRAEL The most significant country growth was seen in Germany ($383 million invested, an increase of 217% from 2007) and Israel ($247 million invested, an increase of 224% from 2007), both led by very large solar deals. Germany overtook the UK as the country receiving the most venture capital in 2008, helped significantly by the region’s largest solar deal of 2008, the $133.7 million investment in Berlin-based solar thin-film manufacturer Sulfurcell Solartechnik. The UK’s decline in total investment ($337.8 million, down 11% from 2007) left it second in the country league table, with Israel moving into third place from sixth in 2007. CHINA: As expected, 2008 witnessed steady gains in clean technology investment in China. Solar accounted for 60% of the total, reflecting the continuing migration of solar module manufacturing from Europe and the US to China, as well as the opportunity of a large domestic market for solar water heating. Other active sectors include agriculture, lighting, and wind. The underlying fundamentals driving cleantech investment in China, including government efficiency targets in energy, water and resource utilization, emission reduction targets, government and corporate goals for cleaner supply chains and industrial operations, and corporate social responsibility goals, remain in place. INDIA: The clean technology sector in India remains nascent compared to more mature markets such as North America and Europe. Much of the interest has been in addressing the energy shortage challenges faced by the country, therefore, energy generation and infrastructure, with solar and wind deals leading the way, attracted the majority of investment dollars. However, new sectors received capital, such as electronic waste recycling, energy efficiency and water management. NORTH AMERICA: TOP INVESTORS:
Key takeaways reviewed in webinar next week Cleantech Forum® XXI San Francisco February 23-25, 2009 About the Cleantech Group, LLC |
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Green Festival 2009…it’s all about food!
March 10, 2009 by John Pickstone
The 18th Green Festival launches on Saturday 23rd May in Peterborough City Centre where the streets will be bustling with free activities, games and events for the whole family to enjoy.
This year the Green Festival theme is Food and the City Centre will host three activity packed hubs - grow it, cook it, eat it. Bridge Street will be transformed into a garden where people can plant vegetables and pick up tips from gardening experts. Step into the Cathedral Grounds and you’ll see cooking demonstrations using delicious locally grown produce. There will be games like ‘ready steady lunchbox’, cooking workshops, recipe cards from Riverford Organic Vegetables to take away, and the chance to win pots, pans and other kitchen equipment.
Finally, in Queensgate and Long Causeway you can taste local produce from East Anglia - think watercress soup, cheesy spinach and tomato tart, rhubarb crumble and elderflower Champaign! You’ll be able to meet local farmers and talk to them about why buying local is the best option for your health and your wallet.
The Festival launch will also see Junk Band Green Beats, who regularly play at the Eden Project, perform for Festival goers. The band will be running workshops for the city’s youngsters to learn about making music out of rubbish. There will be fruit tree planting at the Green Backyard on London Road, and the chance to win a garden shed!
Janine Starling from Peterborough Environment City Trust (PECT) is organising the Green Festival 2009, she says: “The food theme for this year is great because it’s relevant to everyone. The environmental and health benefits of eating locally produced food are no secret.
“People are starting to think about what they are eating and about the carbon emissions involved with flying food in from all over the world that could easily be produced on our doorstep.
“We want to get people growing their own food, buying local produce, eating more fruit and veg, and having fun with it. The Green Festival is all about free family fun for two weeks where people can get involved with nature and their local environment.”
After the launch on 23rd May people can enjoy two weeks of events and activities around Peterborough from an eco-supermarket sweep at Tesco in Hampton, to an eco-fashion show in Queensgate, bike rides round the Green Wheel, and nature walks for children.
Festival highlights:
- Launch event (free, ideal for families), Saturday 23rd May, City Centre.
- Wet and wild at Flag Fen (learn about nature, ideal for families), 24th and 25th May.
- Swishing (posh clothes swap), Tuesday 26th May, Peterborough Museum and Art Gallery.
- Eco-fashion show, Thursday 28th May, Queensgate Shopping Centre.
- Professional bike race, Thursday 4th June, City Centre
- Green Festival finale party hosted by Riverford Organic Vegetables, Sunday 7th June, Sacrewell Farm.
Find out more:
Visit www.pect.net to find out more or call Lisa Taylor on 01733 568408. You will be able to pick up your copy of the Green Festival programme at the beginning of April from Tourist Information, Peterborough Museum and your local Library.
Slowdown is good news for green buildings
March 2, 2009 by John Pickstone
As real estate sector goes through one of its worst times, consumers are looking at value-for-money options and developers are looking at cutting overheads while trying not to compromise on quality. A section of builders say the economic downturn is beginning to prove a boom to the green realty sector because of established and proven technologies that reduce running costs of buildings.
Homebuyers and companies buying office spaces have also shown their preference for green buildings that will drive the market with greater focus in the year ahead.
“We are seeing a growing interest even among existing buildings to retrofit certain technology elements that can save energy in either air-conditioning, or lighting, or the use of water. Many hotels and hospitals, even offices, are beginning to see the advantages of managing waste within their premises, for this eliminates the cost of transporting waste and the mess of waste that is not disposed off,” said Chandrashekar Hariharan, chief executive officer, of Bangalore-based Biodiversity Conservation (India) (BCIL).
He added that “Green realty sector will benefit from the market downturn as investors and buyers today are more discerning and weary of parting with money without the assurance of greater benefits and features that can save on energy bills, water bills, and on managing the waste without the risks of health hazards and without reliance on inefficient municipal bodies. If energy efficiency becomes the norm for buildings, it would be the start of a minor revolution to reduce demand for energy, as well as to bring efficiency in management of precious water resources and more effective waste management in our cities.”
“One has to devise a business model that would benefit as well as adhere to the green norms,” said P Surya Prakash, managing partner of Hyderabad-based SatyaVani Green Homes.He said green buildings are not just environment-friendly but alsohelp cut costs such as maintenance costs for the building and cost of power for the customer. To involve his clients completely in green initiatives, SatyaVani Green Homes has decided to incentivise the customer by subsidising power for 25 years by Rs 18,000 per year. “We bring down connected power load. Normal buildings need 12 mw of connected power. We are making this a zero carbon power. We call this green power,” says Surya Prakash.The concept may not be new, but developers who are actively involved in the green initiative say that green builders should strengthen the movement by sharing their experiences and the advantages they have gained.
“The focus should deepen in learning more tools and techniques and design approaches for better management of energy, water, and waste with cost efficiency and ease of execution being the prime factors,” says Hariharan.BCIL is also offering information at no cost on several things that can be done to bring energy efficiency in many things we buy or use or do in our daily workday lives, he adds. In 2008, there were as many as 240 million sq ft of commercial buildings that requested green certification. The residential green rating system was launched in May 2008 and in less than four months the initiative received applications for a staggering 150 million sq ft of residential apartments, which aspired to green, from builders. The approach has been facilitated by technology and management processes for construction that are reasonably user-friendly and can therefore allow for scale and replicability.
Juice Technology Ltd, Hertfordshire Business Wins £40,000 Climate Change Innovation Prize
March 2, 2009 by John Pickstone
A Hoddesdon based business with a big idea for tackling climate change has won a Shell Springboard award of £40,000 giving the business a valuable boost in a programme designed to promote the growth of the low carbon economy in the UK.
Juice Technology Ltd received the award for its range of ultra efficient LED lights that promise to reduce energy consumption by up to 90 per cent compared to current incandescent light bulbs, and are a third more efficient than compact fluorescent lamps.
In contrast to many LED light systems, this lighting is flexible, practical, affordable and useable for a wide variety of purposes and places. It can be used in shop displays, offices, kitchens and the living room, and even includes a unique dimming feature currently not available with any similar products. It also has a long life and minimal electrical waste, unlike compact fluorescent lamps which contain mercury.
Shell Springboard gives a financial boost to innovative, commercially viable business ideas that tackle climate change. The programme encourages a positive business response to the challenge of climate change by providing a no-strings financial boost to small ideas with innovative products and services that could help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and really make a difference.
Ian Turner, Director of Juice Technology Ltd, said: “We’re absolutely delighted that an independent group of judges has recognised the value of our ambition to deliver significant energy savings through world leading lighting goods. The award will allow us to develop our cutting edge product for EU markets and give it the marketing support it needs to raise consumer awareness.”Duncan Macleod, VP Hydrogen & GTL, Shell International Ltd said: “Congratulations to Ian Turner and Juice Technology Ltd. Their LED light systems, which have genuine commercial potential, could have a significant impact on the UK’s carbon emissions. It’s this kind of cutting-edge innovation that has made the UK a world leader in low carbon technology investment. In a difficult economic climate, it has become more important than ever that we continue to foster such independent entrepreneurialism which is so crucial to the UK economy in the long term.”
According to Shell Springboard’s Race Against the Carbon Pound report the UK’s ‘green’ companies attracted over £1billion of venture capital and private equity investment in 2007: 41% of the EU total. This makes the UK the European leader when it comes to attracting venture capital and private equity investment in low carbon technologies, second only to the United States worldwide.
Juice Technology Ltd competed against eight businesses from across the region on 24th February 2009 in London and will now compete to be named as the overall UK winner in London on the 3rd of March.
Ma (Innovation) 2T4 Ltd, based in Essex, and Alertme.com Ltd from Cambridge also received awards of £40,000, and will go forward with Juice Technology Ltd to the UK final on the 3rd of March.
Source: Shell Springboard
