Eco-Friendly Solar Oven
By
Brett Bumeter | August 26, 2008
I’ve been on a lot of camping excursions the last few years and have learned a lot about preparedness in the outdoors. When I mention preparedness, I’m not talking about close encounters with wildlife or first aid supplies, I’m referring to cooking supplies and utensils. I can’t begin to count the number of times I’ve forgotten to bring extra propane cylinders for the grill or been unable to find dry wood for fire pits. Granted, propane isn’t exactly eco-friendly (and neither is burning branches and whatnot), but until recently there haven’t been too many viable alternatives.
I began doing some research into solar ovens and was pleased to find that there are many affordable options nowadays that contain many valuable features. One of the solar ovens I researched functions as not only an oven, but a crock-pot, slow cooker and camp oven. The solar oven functions in three different modes (full solar, electric and a hybrid mode which utilizes both), so that it can be fully functional regardless of the conditions. Although still a little pricey, these ovens definitely deliver.
Topics: Solar Talk | No Comments »
Solar Camera Bag
By
Brett Bumeter | August 26, 2008
There are a lot of solar charging systems on the market nowadays, so in order to choose one that is tailored to your needs can be quite an investigative process. Sometimes solar bags are quite cumbersome and contain some features that may be out of the realm of normal usage. I mean, do you really need to charge a laptop on top of a mountain, or a cell phone charger on custom english saddles?
Anyway, I recently discovered a nice solar bag for digital photography enthusiasts. The bag is relatively small and lightweight and features not only a solar battery charger, but also a fully customizable compartment for relevant gear and supplies. In addition to meeting your photography needs, the bag also features an iPod and phone charger. With an asking price of $125, this solar camera bag is a must see for photography and solar enthusiasts as well.
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Solar Energy International
By
Brett Bumeter | August 26, 2008
With the slogun of “Renewable energy for a sustainable future”, Solar Energy International has set out to educate everyday people on the advantages of renewable energy sources for their homes and businesses. In addition to their altruistic mantra, Solar Energy International is a non-profit organization that offers courses online as well as 22 locations around the planet.
Solar Energy International also spends a great deal of time visiting local schools where they invite students to learn more about different renewable energies. Focused nt only on the boardroom, SEI considers solar education to be their most important priority. Whether they are in the boardroom delivering a presentation, or in Honduras setting up shop on tv stands, SEI takes solar education seriously.
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Solar Lighting and Accessories
By
Brett Bumeter | August 26, 2008
When it comes to external lighting fixtures, there are many different options. Whether you choose fixtures that hang, drape or stake, there are many stylish solar powered options that will save your wallet as well as your planet. Utilizing new LED technology, these fixtures maintain a bright glow from dusk to dawn. One of the best aspects of utilizing solar power is that you don’t have to understand all the technical ins and outs, just the benefits.
In addition to solar hanging lights, Global Merchants also offer a number of other solar options including flashlights, radios and even coolers. If you are interested in solar power, or want to explore a variety of interesting solar products Global Merchants has got everything you need. Well, as long as you aren’t looking for Orovo detox or other health supplements Global Merchants has everything you might need in regards to solar power.
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Solar Backpacks
By
Brett Bumeter | August 19, 2008
Is there anything more frustrating than being out somewhere and running out of battery power for your phone, iPod or laptop? Well, there is no need to worry anymore. Voltaic solar backpacks are absolutely incredible. These backpacks are the most powerful solar generators in their class. Utilizing lightweight, tough, waterproof panels, this backpack can generate enough power to fully charge a standard laptop.
Not only does the bag include a battery pack to store surplus energy, it also includes a slew of adaptors for common cell phones, laptops and USB ports to name a few. If the premise of a solar powered backpack isn’t cool enough, the pack is also made from recycled materials for a true “renewables” product, just don’t spill your Starbucks coffee on it!
Source: Voltaicsystems.com
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Solar Powered Racers
By
Brett Bumeter | August 19, 2008
The North American Solar Challenge begins this weekend and will run nearly 2,400 miles in 10 days from Dallas, TX to Calgary, AB. The competitors, 24 colleges, will compete in the event with their personally designed solar powered race cars. Victory in this race will definitely award notoriety to the young champion and their school, but will unlikely help with said champions blackhead removal.
The bi-annual race has been going on for well over 15 years and has seen major innovations over its tenure. The first champion (1990) sustained an average speed of 25 mph, while the last winner achieved an average of over 60 mph just two years ago. The students from Michigan have won four races thus far and have their eyes on the prize again this year.
Topics: Solar Concept Ideas | No Comments »
Water as Solar Power
By
Brett Bumeter | August 19, 2008
Creating solar energy is about to become a whole lot less expensive. Researchers, working in inorganic chemistry, have begun utilizing a technique that creates a molecular reaction in water to free hydrogen ions. The free ions create hydrogen gas that in turn can be used in a fuel cell to generate electricity.
Solar output is limited due to the fact that the cells maximum effectiveness can only be harnessed during peek hours and “off peek” storage can be pricey. The aforementioned process will be able to produce energy in the form of Hydrogen gas that can be stored more effectively regardless of time of day. In fact, these scientists would probably say that is is easier than finding cheap life insurance rates. Using water as a catalyst to generate energy is far more affordable than other solutions to date.
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Seeking PROJECT ENGINEERS-Energy Efficiency and Renewable Technology
By
Brett Bumeter | August 14, 2008
Description:
An award-winning provider of sustainable energy-savings solutions throughout North America, AMERESCO, Inc. has new opportunities for Project Engineers at all levels to lead the technical development of efficiency, conservation, and renewable energy projects for customers within commercial, government, industrial, and institutional markets.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Determine customers’ technical requirements, identify and evaluate opportunities for energy efficiency measures.
• Gather key project details such as utility data, facility profiles, site drawings, system operating characteristics.
• Visit project sites to assess and document building, mechanical, electrical, controls, and plumbing systems.
• Investigate, analyze, and document energy conservation and water cost reduction measures.
• Conduct detailed engineering analysis including baseline profiles, end-use analysis, retro-fit analysis.
• Prepare technical content, proposals, analysis, feasibility reports and provide critical peer review.
• Perform other duties as required
Requirements
REQUIREMENTS:
• BSME or related degree plus technical engineering, mechanical design, energy services, or consulting experience.
• Exposure to facility operations and mechanical installation projects involving chiller and boiler plants, motors, VSDs, HVAC retrofit, building automation, energy conservation, or distributed generation projects.
• Ability to identify, analyze, and quantify energy and operational needs, use, and savings projections.
• PE, CEM, energy efficiency, conservation, performance contracting, or M&V project experience desirable.
• Valid Drivers’ License issued by state of residence and in good standing.
• U.S. Citizenship or U.S. Permanent Resident status required.
• May be required to pass security clearance investigation.
• Ability to travel required.
Company
Fueled by a talented and dedicated workforce, AMERESCO, Inc. has developed nearly $4 billion in strategic, innovative system and technology solutions for today’s energy challenges and earned recognition as 2007 North American Energy Services Growth Strategy Leader of the Year based on our independence and entrepreneurial ability to deliver top quality, cutting edge services that fully achieve customer expectations.
We challenge the brightest, most talented and creative individuals in the industry by providing an environment that embraces initiative, diversity, and achievement along with comprehensive rewards that include people-oriented insurance, investment, and incentive plans.
To learn about AMERESCO or Frost & Sullivan Best Practices Award recognition, please visit www.ameresco.com and www.frost.com. AA/EEO.
Location:
Located Statewide in: CA, HI, NY, IL, MN, TN
Compensation:
Commensurate
These solar jobs are almost as prevalent as great deals on compact flash!
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Solar Misconceptions
By
Brett Bumeter | August 8, 2008
There are many misconceptions regarding solar power. Many people believe that if the sun isn’t shining, systems powered by solar energy cannot function. That couldn’t possibly be any farther from the truth. Almost all solar power applications have the ability to store energy gathered during the course of the day.
Another popular misconception involving solar panels is that they are unsightly and can negatively affect your property value. That couldn’t possibly be further from the truth, solar panels fit seamlessly onto your roof and are quite similar to a skylight in their appearance.
There are many questions and concerns over the nationwide viability of solar energy. Many Americans believe, or have been led to believe, that many areas of the United States do not receive enough sunlight to effectively utilize solar energy. Many of the misconceptions aren’t at all different from peoples thoughts about diet pills. Through education and awareness, people are beginning to accept that many of their misconceptions are just that. For instance, Seattle, WA receives 30% more direct sunlight per year than Germany who is the world leader in solar energy usage.
Source: Seattlepi.com
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Solar Power Conference
By
Brett Bumeter | August 8, 2008
San Diego will be ground zero for 2008’s Solar Power Conference and Expo. The conference will have over 400 exhibitors as well as 60 plus conference sessions featuring up to date market date, policy, technology breakthroughs and industry information. The conference is a must for those with a professional interest in solar energy.
Many of the themes will focus on concentration of photovoltaic’s, solar thermal electric and solar hot water. The conference will also feature industry leaders who will be available to discuss how to boost market development and reduce technology costs. The conference will begin October 13th and run all week through the 17th. With beautiful weather almost always in the forecast in San Diego, be sure to remember your golf bags.
Source: SolarPowerConference.com
Topics: Solar Gadgets, Solar Investments, Solar Talk | No Comments »