Fuel cells offer us a way out of our petrol and oil worries and offer consumers an alternative to fossil fuels. But what has stopped us from switching over entirely to fuel cells is cost and technology. With a view to furthering the development of efficient fuel cell-based components, the European Technology Initiative’s Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Joint Undertaking or FCH-JU will be providing much-needed financial help towards the development of hydrogen solid-state containers. The funding, which amounts to 2.3 million Euros, will go to the Bor4Store project which envisions building storage containers based on boron hydrides.

Bor4Store-Project

The project is vital in view of the fact that storing hydrogen can be risky owing to its volatile nature. As such, if this renewable resource is to be used on a large scale – residences included – there needs to be a secure way to store as well as release the gas when needed.

Bor4Store project coordinator, Dr Klaus Taube, said that boron hydrides have the best hydrogen storing capacities compared to other metals. Using boron hydrides to build storage facilities allows 5 kg of the gas to be contained in a 50-liter container, enough to fill the gas tank of a medium-sized vehicle. That’s sufficient to drive for 400 to 500 km which will cost about 10 Euros for a tank full of hydrogen.

Bor4Store will attempt to build a boron hydride-based storage tank that will deliver energy to solid oxide fuel cells which will in turn supply electricity for various applications. The plan is to experiment with the various types of boron hydrides and find the most efficient method for a fast conversion process. At present, material properties are in the middle of being tested. In time, the tank and the cell itself will be improved and finally unveiled to herald the coming of the hydrogen age for the masses.

Via: Nanowerk

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The bike club located in Hainan, a province in Southern China is a bike stadium devoted to pedaling. Designed by NL Architects who belong to Amsterdam, is a bicycle pavilion will be a roof top pedaling showground. It will be buoyed by a glass-enclosed cafe at the zero level. It is a design proposal custom-built by VANKE for a pavilion in Southern China. Due to tropical climate it is essential to have this form of an elliptical imprint structure which provides a shade to the perimeter seating. The well-designed upward arch of the eaves brings to mind the form of the traditional and functional pagoda.

Bike Pavilion by NL Architects

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Bike Pavilion by NL Architects

Bike Pavilion by NL Architects

The visitors can then arrange their bicycles within a recessed channel. This will help them in walking without any barriers and go towards the two staircases leading to the open-air velodrome. The space under the stairs will have concealed public washrooms. As part of a resort club, visitants may lease from the facility embedded into the entrance. This tender from Housing Corporation VANKE for a Bike Club is a part of a big resort located in China that the NL Architects are currently creating.

It is suggested that this Bike porch should accommodate bike rental and a café with a bulging roof which will serve as a great welcome point under such tropical climate conditions. This pavilion dedicated to bicycling will have an elegant bend over this oval bike track to create an optimistic gesture, which will be liked by one and all. This rooftop bicycle track actually will appear to hover as it will mounted on a base of a glass-covered ground level café.

Via: Bustler

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We were first introduced to Fisker Atlantic sedan at the New York Auto Show this year. Although the extended range plug-in hybrid was to start production in mid 2013, leaked internal documents reveal that it has been delayed by one full year. For the company, the production of this car is the next logical step because the Frisker is smaller and more affordable in comparison to its predecessor the $100,000 plus plug in hybrid Karma. It is comprised of a gasoline engine that generates and sends power to the centrally mounted batteries that power its electric motor.

Leaked Fisker Atlantic documents

The mid size sedan is expected to sport BMW sourced 224kW four cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine, which works in tandem with a lithium ion battery from Massachusetts based company A123Systems. It will have 300 horsepower and will take 6.5 seconds to shoot from zero to 60kmph. The documents also cite that it will have emissions of 50 grams per kilometre of CO2.

Specifications regarding the range have no mention anywhere yet, but some speculate that it will be similar or slightly more than the Karma. This means that with all electric motoring, the batteries will juice up all power in about 30 miles or a bit more. Another feature similar to Karma is that Frisker to will provide the driver the option to manually switch on the engine.

As far as pricing of the Fisker is concerned, it will be competing with the likes of BMW 3 Series and 5Series, along with Jaguar XF, Audi A4, etc. A while ago the status of the car was put under scanner as the funding by the U.S. Department of Energy was frozen, but the California based company declines any plans to hold back its production.

Via: Greenautoblog

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The capital city of Seoul in South Korea looks to be taking the bull by the horns in its quest to provide proper power supply to its citizens. In September of 2011, the country was hit by blackouts, affecting millions and even leading to the resignation of its minister holding the portfolio of energy affairs. To offset any chance of a similar incident occurring again, the city has decided to construct 29 hydrogen-based fuel cell power plants in the next two years.

Hydrogen fuel cell power plant in seoul

The initiative will see Seoul being able to supplement its energy demands and provide for emergency power supply in the event of a crisis. Hydrogen fuel cells produce electricity by an electrochemical reaction. The resulting power supply is smooth and the process sees no harmful carbon emissions and noise. Till date, hydrogen fuel cells have been used for transportation, residential use and power generation.

To get the ball rolling, the Seoul government has announced that it will work to attract investors from electricity firms as well as private companies. The funding will be used to construct 102 fuel cells in buildings in the next two years as well. If all goes according to plan, the city will see the fuel cells produce about 230MW of power by 2014 which will cater to the energy needs of 400,000 households.

The hydrogen power plants will be scattered across the city to counter any future blackouts and power cuts the city may face in future in water supply systems and subways.

South Korea is increasingly looking towards fuel cells and other renewables to make its mark in the world of green energy. Back in 2011, Daegu City became home to what is pegged to be the planet’s largest fuel cell park. The 11.2-MW facility provides electricity to a utility in Daegu while the heat generated as a byproduct is utilized by a wastewater treatment plant.

Via: Yonhapnews

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In what is a new twist, researchers are claiming that one of the ways to reduce CO2 emissions may be to produce pure carbon dioxide. The claim applies to factories that rely on fossil fuels. If pure CO2 is produced, then greenhouses gases – once isolated – could be captured and buried in the earth’s natural reservoirs. It’s believed that such a procedure will reduce the emission of greenhouse gases from energy sources like coal and natural gas. This will help to minimize the contributions fossil fuels make to global warming. It’s important to note that the experiment doesn’t seek to find alternative means of energy but to continue to utilize fossil fuels without the need for large levels of pollution.

Oxygen-separation membranes

MIT researchers are in the process of testing a system that eliminates nitrogen from combustion and removes other byproducts like water to deliver a stream of pure carbon dioxide. The experiment is being conducted in a ceramic membrane that separates oxygen from air. Oxyfuel combustion, which involves burning fuel in pure oxygen, can deliver pure CO2. The oxygen-separating membrane is being tested in a small reactor. The researchers are also establishing parameters to test their findings under extreme conditions found inside conventional powerplants.

The researchers will present their study in the upcoming International Symposium on Combustion while the results will be featured in Journal of Membrane Sciences. According to team member Ahmed Ghoniem, the ceramic membrane technology could be a cheap way to sequester CO2 in powerplants.

Current methods to produce pure oxygen are expensive and consume large amounts of energy. With the ceramic membrane technology, the process can be made more affordable and simpler. It’s hoped that the new findings can be applied to new and existing powerplants in the near future. The team of researchers is now working to test the system at various temperatures, fuel conditions and pressures.

Via: Phys

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Solar Print, the company behind the next generation printable solar cell knowledge had announced they will showcase its independently motorized wireless temperature and humidity sensor at an retrospective event. This exhibition – The European Energy Harvesting & Storage Exhibition was held in Berlin on 15-16 May, 2012.

SolarPrint Dye Sensitised Solar Cell Technology

Association of Solar Print with companies like ADI and GSS (Analog Devices Incorporated and Gas Sensing Solutions Limited) has led to the development of the wireless sensor. Innovative minds of Solar Print have shared its Dye Sensitized Solar cell (DSSC) technology. Simultaneously, Gas Sensing Solutions has provided its low-power CO2 sensors which are based on COZIR technology. Analog Devices Incorporated complimented their efforts by contributing the long-range, effectual and wireless networking technology.

This technology compliments the ability to scale more megalomaniac wireless solutions as compared to other solutions. DSSC delivers substantial cost savings by reducing the need for wired networks along with reduced battery related replacement needs when integrated for harvesting energy into wireless sensors in buildings. SolarPrint’s innovative technology gives a platform to tune solar cells in a way that increases and maximizes their performance under interior lighting capacities. It can provide 40% additional power even under such lighting conditions. This sensor comes along with maintenance free and cost effective wireless networks. These networks possess qualities like increased reliability which gives superior flexibility in consuming the sensors. This next generation technology provides integrated customer solutions to meet the needs of wireless sensor applications.

Via: Azocleantech

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Reasons for switching over to solar power are aplenty, especially for the Mid Atlantic states, where the sun’s power is available in abundance. The government is willing to extend all possible support and policy makers are also devising methods to encourage large scale production of the same. In the past two years the regions capacity to generate solar energy has almost doubled and presently it stands at one gigawatt capacity, equivalent to power one million homes.

Mid-Atlantic Solar

Along with the expansion of government tax breaks and extension of incentives, the factors that encourage the use of solar power include, better financing options and lower technology cost. One such option that is being offered to consumers is that homeowners can have solar panels installed for no cost. But, this will be applicable if they agree to lease the system and purchase the same power that they generate.

Although a progressive step forward, the production of 1 gigawatt remains trivial when compared with the production of 186 gigawatt capacity that the grid system of the region has. This power serves thirteen states of the Mid Atlantic, including Washington D.C. Both Virginia and D.C. are currently dependent on oil burning for electricity production, and this is one of the major pollutants that taint the quality of air. Clean Air Task Force, an NGO discovered that 13,000 people died in this region due to pollution from coal fired power plants.

The above account definitely calls for steps that would encourage shifting toward solar power. It will benefit the environment, the health of the people and also safer for the wildlife of the region.

Via: Cleantechnica

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Alternate energy options are growing with each day and while the most popular form seems to be solar power; wind energy is catching up fast with latest developments. Modern wind turbines and new ways to tap into off-shore wind energy and even high altitude wind power means that it is no longer undependable and can produce energy that is close to being a constant power source. A group of researchers projected a stimulating plan that would take the wind energy and convert it into an alternate source of power.

East coast wind grid gets a go ahead

The main objective of this research would be to take all collectively all the wind farms off the East Coast and convert them into one colossal generating system that will be given the region’s existing wind prototype and it will ensure, producing a minimum amount of power always for that particular region. The motive that prevails behind this project is very straightforward; a local source of wind power is dependent always on the weather conditions prevailing in the region. The East Coast is rarely calm, and this is the reason why the storms tend to form towards the south and take a more or less northeasterly track along the coast. If the weather remains tranquil, the chances of rousing up things in the vicinity will be good. In the wake of this, the researchers thought of spreading wind generators up and down the coast, which would always be producing power.

According to the conventional setup, the grids in only some areas will be receiving wind power, while the rest will again be striving for some pother source of power generation. But this project, which was proposed in the last few years, planned of connecting them all together, through a single conduction system, and supplying that into a restricted number of areas. This is how those particular regions will be getting intermittent power that will never drop below minimum. The East coast is also looking forward to an offshore wind construction area, though this dream is far from reality but it has already attracted a large number of enthusiastic investors.

Via:Arstechnica

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Germany multinational corporation, Siemens, has been working to make ‘eHighway’ systems a reality. The system combines hybrid trucks with overhead electrical wires that enable the heavy vehicles to run on electricity. The technology has already been tested in Germany to successful results. Now, the corporation is looking towards the United States, Los Angeles and California to be precise, to test its systems which will greatly benefit the regions that see a high level of transit.

eHighway electric lines to power hybrid trucks in LA

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eHighway electric lines

eHighway electric lines to power hybrid trucks in LA

The eHighway system was unveiled at this year’s Electric Vehicle Symposium. The technology relies on a network of overhead electric lines that allow trucks to switch seamlessly from diesel to electric-mode. When the vehicles are disconnected from the wires, they switch to their diesel engines. When they brake, kinetic energy is generated which can be fed back to the grid for use by other hybrid trucks.

The Siemens-designed system will be installed in at least one lane of a highway. As the special hybrid trucks pass under the lines, they can either be automatically or manually connected to the overhead wires. The pantograph used has been custom-designed by the corporation itself and will monitor connections between the trucks and wires with precision. Even when the trucks make horizontal shifts, they will remain connected to the wires till they’re disconnected manually or automatically by the drivers.

Heavy vehicles remain a bone of contention with environmentalists for their smoke spewing ways. With the burgeoning population and increasing consumer demands, it’s believed that road traffic may double by the year 2050. Siemens’s eHighway system seeks to temper the problem of pollution on short routes, for instance, in cities, between ports, mines and cargo centers. The company is also looking to partner with manufacturers of heavy vehicles in order to integrate its pantographs, onboard software and engine systems with new and existing trucks.

Via: Designboom

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Portraits created out of paint, stone, ink, pencil and even coffee stains are some of the art mediums we’ve been made privy to over the years. The ability of artists to create beauty using the deftness of their hands in harmony with their minds and emotions provide us mere mortals with a sense of awe and inspiration. And, while all deserve the highest praise, this next project could very well receive the highest marks for sheer ingenuity. English artists Dan Harvey and Heather Ackroyd have created stunningly accurate portraits from living grass using nature’s own photosynthesis phenomenon.

Photo-Realistic Living Grass Images by Ackroyd and Harvey

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Photo-Realistic Living Grass Images by Ackroyd and Harvey

Photo-Realistic Living Grass Images by Ackroyd and Harvey

The duo use photosynthesis to project photographic images on blades of growing grass by exposing them to a 400-watt projector bulb. The light passes through a negative for certain periods of time to create dark tones and light shadows. For instance, the varying density of the negative’s light and dark areas produce a range of midtones when light levels in certain areas are controlled. More light produces darker tones while less light generates lighter or yellow tones. In a few weeks, the portraits in all their glory began to emerge. There is a downside, however; since the medium used is living grass, they tend to fade away like old photographs.

The two artists began collaborating back in 1990 after noticing pale outlines created by a ladder that was left on a lawn. Seven years later, they started working with the Institute of Grassland and Environmental Research who had developed a type of grass that could retain its green hue even under stress. Of course, if the grass is exposed to oxidative bleaching and other processes, it does lose its color, but that was a small price to pay for creating literally living pieces of artworks.

Harvey and Ackroyd have also worked on installing metal rings around the crown of semi-mature trees, detailing the history of each site of the 2012 London Olympics which can be viewed once the event gets underway.

Via: Odditycentral

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Alago Alba, living in a marginalized village in the North Eastern region of Kenya, provided for her family by turning to renewable energy. Her village lacked a workable connection to an electricity grid and like many Kenyans; she could not afford the high costs of obtaining a main connection.

solar powered phones in Kenya

Alago’s job as a stock trader required the use of a mobile phone, which runs on electricity, to keep track of stock arriving from Isiolo, the nearest urban center. She solved her problem by purchasing a cell phone that recharges on solar energy. Such a device also saves her from traveling the dangerous stretch of road prowled by bandits.

Telecommunications company Safaricom (under UK’s Vodafone) and Kenya’s Mobitelea Ventures invented the phones to help Kenyans stay in touch and improve communications making them faster and reliable. The phones are completely eco-friendly, assembled from recycled electronic waste and fitted with a useful charger that stores energy after absorbing sun rays. For charging their phones, users do not have to gain access to a main connection or to pay for an electricity service at a shopping center

The Director of the climate change office in Kenya’s Ministry of Environment and Mineral Resources commends the phone as a brilliant innovation. It offers a solution to the increasing power outages in the country as well as fulfills stipulated environmental goals. The solar rechargeable phone benefits the urban poor who have to endure electricity rationing.

The phone is very affordable, and will help reduce the marginalization of struggling Kenyans. Positive effects have influenced the Kenyan government to examine the potential of solar power to meet the population’s energy needs. The government believes in investment in renewable energy to supply electricity in an environmentally friendly and sustainable way. It is pushing for a greater role for hydroelectric power; unfortunately Kenya has limited water resources. Reasonably, solar power is an opportune and attractive proposition to secure Kenya’s future.

Via: Trust

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A Jaguar that harvests piezoelectricity? That’s right, designers Hussain Almossawi and Marin Myftiu have conceptualized a modern version of the famous Jaguar E-Type that set the bar high for sports cars in the 1960s. Though not endorsed by Jaguar itself, the XKX concept is a design study into how the next generation model of the classic E-Type could be. Unlike the conventional E-Type that ran on fuel, the XKX will make use of piezoelectricity harvested from energy produced by air friction.

jaguar XKX concept by hussain almossawi + marin myftiu

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jaguar XKX concept by hussain almossawi + marin myftiu

jaguar XKX concept by hussain almossawi + marin myftiu

According to Almosawwi and Myftiu, the decision to conceive of a next-gen version of the E-Type came about after an in-depth study of the some of the world’s most famous Jaguars ever produced. By applying modern technology and new body forming techniques, the designers began to envision the successor to the E-Type and the XK8 models.

In terms of style, the result is no match when compared to the traditional models but manages to incorporate elements of the sleekness and curves favored by automakers back in the day. It combines these with futuristic bodystyles especially at the rear.

Since the XKX concept won’t need the use of a bigger conventional powertrain, the designers could model the concept to become more aerodynamic by widening the side deflector intakes on the front and sculpting the door panels on the side to facilitate air flow. The body of the XKX will be covered in piezoelectric cells that harness air produced from friction and generate power which will be fed into the vehicle’s battery system.

The designers also developed ‘disappearing’ side mirrors that fold into a hatch when the car is parked to minimize chances of mirror vandalism which, incidentally, is believed to be the second most reported act of vehicle vandalism in the United Kingdom.

It’ll be a long time before we finally have automobiles that run on piezoelectricity but the efforts made by Almosawwi and Myftiu look set to bring the day nearer.

Via: Designboom

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We are no experts when it comes to discussing equipment that is used by oil companies and we surely do not know much about what actually happens on an offshore rig when it comes to extraction of crude oil. But one thing we do know from watching the events of the past is that these working conditions are highly volatile and even a small mistake can cause both damage to equipment and human life on a large scale. Not to mention the environment in the area. Stotler Company recently demonstrated the prototype of their solar-powered accumulator and this piece of equipment apparently helps the oilfields in protection against blowouts.

prototype of a solar-powered accumulator

Accumulators supply hydraulic pressure to close blowout preventers both during times of breaks and during any emergency. While normally these accumulators run on gasoline and diesel, the one showcased by Stotler is powered by solar energy. It quite obviously draws its power from the photovoltaic panels on top and in case it is a slightly cloudy day, then it has both manual and nitrogen-powered backup systems that come into effect.

The main purpose of the new solar-powered accumulator is not so much to cut down on fuel costs as it is to cut down on carbon emissions. Oil companies are being held to stricter emission laws with each passing day and the makers of these alternate energy-powered Accumulators believe that they will help immensely in cutting down the overall carbon footprint of oil companies and that will be indeed both good for PR and for the environment. Hopefully this means that we will see a lot more solar energy utilization in oil industry in the years to come; which might seem ironic yet is totally necessary.

Via: Bakersfield

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When we think alternate sources of power, we think of solar and wind power. And if pushed, we tend to think of tidal power and hope that clean energy generating ideas like a hydrogen fuel cell will take over in the coming decade or so. But not many of us give a thought to geothermal energy. The huge amount of heat that is contained within the earth’s crust and comes from the core that drives this planet on. But how about tapping into another source of energy that is much like geothermal power, but is actually available far more widely and is a lot more easily accessible?

sewage as geothermal energy

Chinese researchers at Jin Da Di Energy Engineering & Technology Co. have developed a new way of capturing heat from all the hot wastewater that goes down the drain each day at your home. Hot water obviously runs out into the sewer system from showers, washing machines and various other processes that are both domestic and industrial. While the water may not be useful to us till it gets out of a treatment plant again, the heat that it still carries is definitely something that you can tap into.

And that is exactly what the Chinese have done by using a system of extractors which will filter out the waste from the water and then use this hot water using a series of pipes that allow them to use this water for both heating and cooling needs of various buildings and installations. The technology has already been successfully used in apartments, hotels and even a train station at Beijing and companies from across the globe are already showing great interest in this new green energy option. NovaThermal Energy LLC from the US has already taken it up and others from across the world seem to be ready to join in on the technology that will turn hot gray water into green energy.

Via: blueandgreentomorrow

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Till scientists do find a viable commercial alternative that will work on a large manufacturing scale, Platinum continues to remain one of the most important constituents of a hydrogen fuel cell makeup. In what is an ironic twist to the fuel cell story, while the material used to generate hydrogen in a fuel cell, water, is available abundantly and is as good as free, the perfect catalyst for this reaction, Platinum, is one of the most expensive metals on the planet. Anglo American Platinum, the world’s leading producer of Platinum, decided to show their faith in the hydrogen fuel cell technology by using the first fuel cell-powered mining locomotive at Amplats’ mines.

Fuel Cell Locomotive

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Fuel Cell Locomotive

Fuel Cell Locomotive

The fuel cell-powered mining locomotive indeed is a revolution in the industry as it really does stand out from the pack with its unique look and quiet presence. While other mining locomotives are both noisy and also lead to carbon emissions, the fuel cell locomotive goes quietly unnoticed and has zero-emissions, making it an ideal option in almost every working condition. It does not depend on grid power, which is a big plus for mining companies and is highly energy efficient.

The fuel cell mining locomotive has enabled the company to showcase the many advantages of hydrogen fuel cell technology. While scientists continue to work at alternatives that will replace the precious Platinum in fuel cells and make the technology a lot cheaper than it is today, for now we continue to wait for the full scale commercialization of fuel cell technology and its widespread usage.

Via: Miningreview

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Our eyes are our world. Loss of sight can be a dreadful experience for any one. To combat this challenge, a retinal implant or a bionic eye has been developed by scientists at Stanford University in California. It is powered by light as compared to present day implants which are run on batteries. This device uses a unique pair of spectacles to shaft a stream of light into the eye. This sends signals to the implant helping the patient to see. This will also eliminate the need of wiring and other necessary accessories. This wireless implant will help in creation of vision for blind patients and also for patients suffering from retinal or visual disorders.

Light-powered bionic eye

Today technological advancements are paving ways for innovative and creative solutions to many human health disorders and this bionic eye is an example of using technology for solving medical challenges. This implant has not been used as yet on people but has been tried on rats and has proven to be successful.

The nerves at the back of the eye are stimulated using these retinal implants which eventually generate vision. Restoring sight for a person is like giving him/her a second life. These light powered implants will give a sigh of relief to many as it is easy to use yet trendy. This implant works on the technology similar to solar panels. It has a video camera fitted to pass a beam of light on the retinal chip and let the patients see what is happening before their eyes. Creation of electric signals which are transferred to the nerves of the eye help in generating vision for the blind. These implants are user friendly and eliminate any complicated technological interventions.

Via: BBC

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It is one thing designing all those fancy apartments and studios and a whole different thing when it comes to putting in a bar in a submarine. To celebrate the 250th anniversary of Arthur Guinness signing the 9,000-year lease on St. James’s Gate Brewery in Dublin, Guinness wanted someone to design a very special bar for their special submarine. The task was accomplished by London based Jump Studios as they successfully managed to design a bar inside the deep sea vessel that met both the luxury standards and the look that was befitting of Guinness and the safety standards that come along with such a venture.

Guinness Deep-Sea Bar by Jump Studios

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Guinness Deep-Sea Bar by Jump Studios

Guinness Deep-Sea Bar by Jump Studios

Crafting an interior that pretty much was the same size as that of the space available in the submarine was difficult, but the designers managed to do that by separately crafting the components and then assembling them in freezing cold conditions in Sweden, where the submarine was located. The entire seating, tables and other units were covered in rubber surface and LED lighting installations were incorporated to give the bar some cool lighting.

The interiors were crafted carefully keeping in mind the image of Guinness and the specific look that they would desire for such a project. Turning the limited space in a submarine into a bar is a task in itself and having to meet the safety standards with proper fire safety mechanisms was also an integral part of the design. Considering how the sub made a trip down to the bottom of the Baltic once the bar was fitted in, you will surely get a buzz of more than just one kind inside this bar.

Via: Archdaily

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Today with increasing global warming and increasing awareness of other environmental hazards, more and more people across the world are focusing on harnessing natural sources of energy like wind energy. Wave power is a renewable source of energy and is available in abundance. Wind energy provides clean fuel which is environment friendly and does not produce greenhouse gases. And to capitalize on its greener attribute, we have been utilizing ocean waves for centuries.

marine homes to be powered by wave energy

Maine is now all geared to join hands with other few states to generate electricity from tidal waves. This form of electricity production will be pollution free. With several ways available to tap wind energy for electricity production, ORPC does not use dams or impoundments for generation of electricity. With enough coastlines available for use, twenty year power purchase agreements (PPA) have been approved by Maine’s Public Utilities Commission. PPA between wind energy developers ORPC could mean that will soon benefit from the electricity produced in the Gulf of Maine, from ORPC Cobscook Bay area.

The first phase of this project was initiated in March. At this stage, the bottom support frame for the pioneer grid was made in place. This was completed at the site at Lubec , near Seward Neck. The 150kW devices expected to be in place by late summer as suggested by ORPC. ORPC also suggested that the first electricity will flow under PPAs by October. Company also stated that its wider expansion plans include harnessing energy from nearby areas including Western Passage and Kendall Head. Once completed, this could generate up to 4MW energy and help in preserving the environment.

Via: Care2

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Different automakers seem to have different perceptions towards hydrogen fuel cell technology. While some believe that it is too early to experiment with this clean and emission-free source of energy, others are eager to drive forward and be among the first that will revolutionize the way we commute on the roads of tomorrow. Mercedes-Benz seem to be among the later as they are reportedly working hard on integrating fuel cell technology into their cars and reports suggest that Mercedes could very well launch a vehicle that will carry the clean energy source as early as 2014.

Mercedes-Benz Hydrogen Fuel Cell Cars

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Mercedes-Benz Hydrogen Fuel Cell Cars

Mercedes-Benz Hydrogen Fuel Cell Cars

Mercedes is apparently working on two hydrogen fuel cell cars currently and one of them could be available to public by 2014. While the first of the two vehicles that is in works might be the improved version of the latest Mercedes-B Class with improved range and in the form of a range-extended electric version, the second d one that might be unveiled a bit later down the line is a large sedan or SUV model.

The expectations at this point are that Mercedes will use Hydrogen fuel cell technology to extend the range of the next-gen Mercedes B-Class, but the exact car that it has planned is still not certain. Mercedes have already showcased a concept hydrogen fuel cell assisted vehicle that was dubbed as the F125 and promised a range of 620 miles along with top speed of 136 mph. One of the nig problems for car makers at this point though is the presence of supporting infrastructure for the cars and plans in the US suggest that such a hydrogen fuel cell car will initially be released in just California and will slowly progress to other states when hydrogen filling stations expand as well.

Via: Motorauthority

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Seems like the solar revolution is spreading across the globe at a rapid pace with regions that were previously not too ‘hot’ on solar power now turning towards this clean energy source. And with growing awareness and how planet-friendly measures tend to both bring in some good PR and save a penny or two in the long run, business groups are turning towards clean power more and more. While groups like Greenpeace still complain about how it is still not ‘enough’, we are more than happy to see the trend of big corporate houses adopting alternate energy, even if it is at their own pace.

Walmart to install solar panels on 27 stores in Mass.

Walmart already has turned solar in some locations to power part of its energy needs and in its latest initiative has decided to install photovoltaic panels at 27 of their 50 outlets in Massachusetts that will enable them to produce as much as 10.5 megawatts of clean solar energy. For the sake of understanding how big and significant the project is, that energy would be normally sufficient to power around 2600 homes. Of course, this does not mean that the stores will be going completely solar themselves for energy needs as this will only account for 10 to 15 percent of their total energy consumption.

The solar installations are being supplied by Greenskies Renewable Energy LLC and while there is no official word on it as of yet, the project will at least set Walmart back by $31.5 million. Of course, the company will try and make this up in the long run and it will also help reduce the stores’ carbon emissions.

Via: Bostonglobe

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The power of the sun doesn’t seem to be confined to cars, homes or even boats. The stylist behind pop sensation Lady Gaga’s eye-popping meat dress has announced that he will launch his fashion label named Formichetti in mid-2013 that will include solar-powered garments. The novel idea will see wearers of the clothes being able to charge their cellphones while on the go.

Lady Gaga’s stylist to launch `solar-powered` clothing in 2013

While the day of the launch for the solar-powered clothes is still far off, Nicola Formichetti looks set to realize his dream, terming the concept ‘digitally oriented and high-tech’. In an interview, the designer said that it is time to come up with new techniques when designing clothes. An example he gave was having a jacket molded to the body instead of one with a zipper.

Formichetti is currently working with a company to develop the materials for his solar-powered clothes. It should be a while before they see the light of day but we’ll be eagerly waiting for the launch.

The 35-year-old Italian and Japanese designer is the creative director for MUGLER, a French fashion house. He came into further prominence after designing a meat dress for Lady Gaga that received widespread praise as well as criticism. According to him, it was the meat dress that gave him the confidence to go ahead with his plans for the solar-powered garments.

Formichetti has also designed other items of clothing for Lady Gaga including a yolk-colored latex number and has worked with such fashion houses like Alexander McQueen, D&G and Prada, among others. Once the solar-powered clothes hit the markets, Formichetti is likely to see his reputation soar even higher. We’re hoping that he extends his concept even further to accessories so that wearers won’t need to rely on any external power source for their electronic gadgets again.

Via: Dnaindia

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Garden planters aren’t just containers for planting flowers and plants. They’re decorative too and can be used to deck up a boring space. Planters also don’t have to be purchased from stores and can be made by oneself. While most are as large as or larger than flower pots, some are classified into the micro category. These are tiny little holders used to contain succulent plants. They can be used to decorate walls, tables or exteriors and make for perfect gifting items.

Wine Cork Micro-Planters

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Wine Cork Micro-Planters

Wine Cork Micro-Planters

Micro planters can be made out of virtually any material though cork is the preferred choice. You can use those that come with wine or champagne bottles. Cork planters make for a fun DIY project and don’t really require you to purchase additional base materials. You’ll need a carving tool or a small knife to carve out the cork/s, a small succulent plant or a cutting, some potting mix and accessories like beads if you want to dress up your micro planter.

Carve out the cork using the knife or carving tool. Make sure that you don’t carve too close to the edges else the cork may break. Take a bit of potting mix and put it into the carved cork. Place your plant and fill the cork with more soil. You can leave the planter as it is or add a few beads and sequins to dress it up. To ensure that your succulents thrive, spritz a few drop of water when needed but make sure you don’t overwater them.

While we’ve heard of cork being used in flooring, packaging and shoes, this micro planter idea is the most interesting. You don’t need to buy the materials but can collect the corks from friends and family if you run out. Make several of them and gift them to colleagues or friends.

Via: Greenupgrader

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Matra, which is one of the largest producer of Light Electric Vehicles and DBT which is one of the largest electric vehicle charging infrastructure organizations in Europe, are helping the eco-friendly scooter drivers to go green. DBT and Matra have paved a path to go green for e-bikes and e-scooters by launching a battery swapping station in Los Angeles – referred as the Bat’Lib system. It is a cupboard like system that clutches and charges nine batteries in one go. In order to get a new charged pack, one slot is always kept available to receive the discharged pack. These packs can be bartered for empty packs in fraction of a second. These packs weigh 16 pounds and are about the size of a loaf of bread.

Bat’Lib battery-swapping station

Easy battery-swapping station was the need of the hour as two wheelers are a great solution to the increasing city congestion. What’s more, with holding capacity of 1.125 kWh of energy, these detachable batteries have been built by Chicago-based AllCell Technologies. These batteries are based on a thermal system which aids in increased energy mass and prolonged battery cycle life. The swapping station batteries are safe and can be renewed up to 1,800 times. The exchange station works on either 110 or 220-volt electric outlets. It requires a contactless card reader to take payments and open and latch the charge bay doors. As per the media information, this battery swapping system could be used for scooters in Europe from the Matra brand and to Asia from E-Ton and Tajima later this year. In less than 10 seconds a consumer can get a charged battery in place of a discharged battery at this exchange station without having to wait for a few hours for the empty battery to recharge.

Via: Autoblog

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Bamboo has been used for decades in South Asia owing to its abundance, eco friendly features and fast growth. In Vietnam, this plant holds even more significance in culture. It symbolizes the Vietnamese soul, home and the spirit of Vovinam, the country’s form of martial arts. It is only fitting, then, that architect Vo Trong Nghia and his team used bamboos to construct an exposition booth in the 2012 Vietnam Architecture Exhibition.

Bamboo Booth 2012 by Vo Trong Nghia

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Bamboo Booth 2012 by Vo Trong Nghia

Bamboo Booth 2012 by Vo Trong Nghia

The 5-day event saw the team take two days to build the 4.2-meter high booth out of 500 bamboos. The intriguing structure sees the poles stacked on top of the other like a brick layout in a minimalistic manner. This was done taking into consideration the short time frame given to the architects. No metal joints were used in the construction with bamboo nails and wedges being utilized instead. However, the architects made use of steel wires to hold the walls and the roof together.

Longer poles were used to build the walls and the floor to form a polygon shape. As for the lateral ends, the architects used shorter bamboos cut into 60-80 cm and laid them down like bricks. The result is a structure with interesting dimensions – massive walls and ends that are dotted by the short bamboo poles – that highlight the importance of this plant in Vietnamese culture.

One of the benefits of bamboo is its fast growing nature. Able to grow at a couple of feet per day, the plant offers modest or low income families the ideal tool with which to construct homes and other structures. It’s relatively cheap and low maintenance as well. Another advantage is its ability to thrive without the use of pesticides owing to a unique anti-bacterial bio-agent called bamboo kun. It’s 100 percent biodegradable too and doesn’t cause as much pollution to the environment as other materials.

Via: Archdaily

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EV veteran Chip Yates has been tinkering around with electric vehicles for years now and has recently decided to put his expertise to use on electric-powered airplanes. The American isn’t interested in setting records for flying the fastest e-plane, however; rather, he wants to reinvent how such aircrafts are thought of and modify existing trends to enable long distance flights.

Flying Drone Batteries

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Flying Drone Batteries

Flying Drone Batteries

One of the biggest setbacks to developing efficient electric planes is range. Most concepts aren’t able to get around this barrier as battery packs can’t provide enough boost for long distances. They’re heavy too which only limits planes from going far. Yates is seeking to reinvent how battery packs are used instead of waiting around for a breakthrough to be made in battery technology.

The former Boeing employee has set a few world records for e-motorcycles with one of them being the fastest electric motorcycle which can touch speeds of an impressive 200 mph. But considering his background with Boeing, it appears that aviation was a natural shift and prompted Yates to try to come up with a way that would allow existing battery systems to provide enough boost to allow electric planes to fly long distances.

Yates decided to attempt to travel a transatlantic route in an e-plane but realized that completing the trip would be impeded by current battery systems’ limited range. In an intense brainstorming session, the American and his team came up with the idea of taking off with a full load of battery packs and dropping them off once they’re consumed. To offset the chances of the batteries dropping everywhere, the packs will sport wings to help them return to a specified area after use while full batteries will be able to fly up to the plane. The project has been named Flight of the Century and though it’s still in the developmental stage, knowing Chip Yates and his determination, don’t be surprised if he manages to pull it off.

Via: Wired

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