This Lecture had some very serious and note-worthy points brought attention by quite a couple rather concerned audience members. A man from the Lobstermans association in Massachusetts was extremely concerned about the possibilities of electromagnetic fields effecting the migratory patterns of wildlife, lobsters specifically. Another man talked about a failed wind system in a Fjord in Norway. Apparently after the installation of a wind farm, almost the entire salmon population diminished. However, after the farm was shut down two years later, the salmon returned. This occurrence was a great concern of the entire audience, and one man became rather angry that the Eastport program had not done more testing before installing a test site. I am not sure how valid any of these arguments are, but there is some truth in this which could pose a major problem to the industry, and at this time it needs absolute support from locals.
The lecture opened my eyes to the entirely new energy resource of hydro power. Not only will this this energy create a great boost in our economy if all goes well, but Maine has the potential to be a leader in sustainable energy. This was without doubt the most intriguing experience of my isearch so far. Not only because these projects are local, but because they are becoming a reality. Listening to the four different speakers at the Lecture really opened new doors as to what I might be interested in as a career. The Governor's task force consisted of 22 important and intellectual people who really got the program rolling within 3 months. This kind of forward movement is huge. It's people taking action instead of continuously talking about possibilities. It is energy systems being built to serve the public as opposed to statistics on a page. The program in Eastport is by no means "all figured out," but is a huge step towards thinking realistically about energy goals of the future. Throughout this process my hope was to discover the practical energies of the future, and what we may be using locally a couple years down the road. I think one of the most apparent facts to me throughout this study is global warming will not stop with the help of a few hippies. It needs the full support of the American population.
Monday, March 23, 2009
Experiance: Lecture on Ocean Energy at the Fisherman's Forum
Governor's Ocean Energy Task Force
i. wind
- projects in Mass, RI, and ME.
ii. OETF Mission
- 2,000 megawatts of wind power by 2015, and 3,000 megawatts by 2020 with 300 MW in coastal waters.
- Research and strategies benefits, areas, and problems
- modifying and tweaking laws to allow for more wind power as long as no harm comes to the environment.
- there are 22 members in collaboration with this effort from different areas of the state.
iii. In Maine __% of energy is used
- 50% for transportation
- 40% for heating
- 10% for electric power
iv. wind is a huge resource that would substantially boost Maine's economy.
v. state leadership comes from Governor Baldacci who started the program.
vi. Construction of turbines in is both Eastport and BIW
vii. The task force meets once a month, its next serious meetings being:
- April: a preliminary report
- June 16-18: Ocean Energy 2009 meeting
- October: recommendation to the Governor
Ocean Renewable Power Company (ORPC)
i. Only company in upper east coast testing tidal turbines (in Eastport)
- In spring of 2009 the project in Eastport was launched.
- Currents are very strong in Eastport; therefore this was a perfect place to install turbine system.
- A Barge was installed next to the site.
ii. The project involves the community fully and the boat school in this project
- Many young people are getting involved
- The program is working with pilots on both sides of the border (Maine and Canada)
iii. System:
- System must be a minimal of 40 ft. below the surface.
- 350 sq. ft. footprint.
- Turbines are in rectangular cages stacked on top of each other
iv. Tidal power:
- Represents 300 jobs
- 1o million dollar investment that will pay for itself within 5-7 years
- Privately funded
- Program initiates ocean energy industry in Maine.
- Within 5-7 years the program may potentially produce 100 megawatts
- Every 350 sq. ft. footprint will produce one megawatt.
Problems:
- Electromagnetic fields effect environment, and may possible interfere with the natural migration patterns of wildlife.
- Generally tidal turbines will not be in the way of fisherman because they are located in very strong currents that fisherman would not harvest from anyway.
- Maintenance is not considered to be a huge problem as the turbines will be moving fast enough not to have plant matter grow. A problem may arise with the cages, but substances to coat the cages and prevent this are being looked into.
Issues for both tidal and wind turbines
i. location, location, location... stay out of:
- bat migration patterns (wind)
- lobsterman fishing zones
- ground fishing zones
- herring fishing zones
- whale migration and breeding grounds
- shrimp catches
ii. Other problems (with some controversy):
- Vibration and noise for up to 100 kilometers within site
- Electromagnetic fields interrupting migration patterns
- A possible effect on radar systems
iv. Possible solutions:
- Have test sites
- Intensive surveying of possible installation areas
- Cables that protect the environment from the electromagnetic fields
i. wind
- projects in Mass, RI, and ME.
ii. OETF Mission
- 2,000 megawatts of wind power by 2015, and 3,000 megawatts by 2020 with 300 MW in coastal waters.
- Research and strategies benefits, areas, and problems
- modifying and tweaking laws to allow for more wind power as long as no harm comes to the environment.
- there are 22 members in collaboration with this effort from different areas of the state.
iii. In Maine __% of energy is used
- 50% for transportation
- 40% for heating
- 10% for electric power
iv. wind is a huge resource that would substantially boost Maine's economy.
v. state leadership comes from Governor Baldacci who started the program.
vi. Construction of turbines in is both Eastport and BIW
vii. The task force meets once a month, its next serious meetings being:
- April: a preliminary report
- June 16-18: Ocean Energy 2009 meeting
- October: recommendation to the Governor
Ocean Renewable Power Company (ORPC)
i. Only company in upper east coast testing tidal turbines (in Eastport)
- In spring of 2009 the project in Eastport was launched.
- Currents are very strong in Eastport; therefore this was a perfect place to install turbine system.
- A Barge was installed next to the site.
ii. The project involves the community fully and the boat school in this project
- Many young people are getting involved
- The program is working with pilots on both sides of the border (Maine and Canada)
iii. System:
- System must be a minimal of 40 ft. below the surface.
- 350 sq. ft. footprint.
- Turbines are in rectangular cages stacked on top of each other
iv. Tidal power:
- Represents 300 jobs
- 1o million dollar investment that will pay for itself within 5-7 years
- Privately funded
- Program initiates ocean energy industry in Maine.
- Within 5-7 years the program may potentially produce 100 megawatts
- Every 350 sq. ft. footprint will produce one megawatt.
Problems:
- Electromagnetic fields effect environment, and may possible interfere with the natural migration patterns of wildlife.
- Generally tidal turbines will not be in the way of fisherman because they are located in very strong currents that fisherman would not harvest from anyway.
- Maintenance is not considered to be a huge problem as the turbines will be moving fast enough not to have plant matter grow. A problem may arise with the cages, but substances to coat the cages and prevent this are being looked into.
Issues for both tidal and wind turbines
i. location, location, location... stay out of:
- bat migration patterns (wind)
- lobsterman fishing zones
- ground fishing zones
- herring fishing zones
- whale migration and breeding grounds
- shrimp catches
ii. Other problems (with some controversy):
- Vibration and noise for up to 100 kilometers within site
- Electromagnetic fields interrupting migration patterns
- A possible effect on radar systems
iv. Possible solutions:
- Have test sites
- Intensive surveying of possible installation areas
- Cables that protect the environment from the electromagnetic fields
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Response 11: DOI & FERC Announce Agreement on Renewable Energy Development
It sounds like the U.S. Department of the Interior has quite a lot of control over where renewable systems are put in all over America, and as long as they are for green energy, they may be the start towards more installations. Before this Department was mainly focused on where to drill for oil, but now, as times are changing, it seems they are more oriented towards where green systems should be installed. This is a great step towards help from the government in creating more power from renewable resources. The DOI has control over one fifth of the land in the U.S. and much of the outer continental shelf. This resource, if used correctly, could have a huge impact on the amount of "renewable energy zones" created, and the area of land put towards renewable energy.
When I was looking for an article, I came across one that pointed out that currently not much sustainable energy accounts for our overall energy consumption. I wonder how in the future solar, wind, tidal turbines, and other systems can account for all the energy we use on a daily basis. It seems that wind and solar systems are great in the fact that they are renewable, but there energy production amounts are not huge. While this is a setback, maybe this realization may lead the American public to think about how we need to cut down on waste in this issue as well. Overall my research has lead me in many different directions and aspects of sustainable energy. If I could gain just one valuable point from my work so far these past months it would be that there is no one solution to this energy crisis. The solution needs to come from the government as well as the people. The solution needs to involve many types of renewable energy systems. Efficiency must be a huge part in this as well. Wasting the precious energy we gain is not only a set back in the preserving of the environment, but also throws away our dollars and effort. Where we get out energy is important to every ones well being, and staple in out economic future.
When I was looking for an article, I came across one that pointed out that currently not much sustainable energy accounts for our overall energy consumption. I wonder how in the future solar, wind, tidal turbines, and other systems can account for all the energy we use on a daily basis. It seems that wind and solar systems are great in the fact that they are renewable, but there energy production amounts are not huge. While this is a setback, maybe this realization may lead the American public to think about how we need to cut down on waste in this issue as well. Overall my research has lead me in many different directions and aspects of sustainable energy. If I could gain just one valuable point from my work so far these past months it would be that there is no one solution to this energy crisis. The solution needs to come from the government as well as the people. The solution needs to involve many types of renewable energy systems. Efficiency must be a huge part in this as well. Wasting the precious energy we gain is not only a set back in the preserving of the environment, but also throws away our dollars and effort. Where we get out energy is important to every ones well being, and staple in out economic future.
Article 11: DOI & FERC Announce Agreement on Renewable Energy Development
- The "Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act" allows the "Secretary of the Interior" to grant leases of the outer continental shelf for the use of oil and gas development.
- In 2005 this act was amended to allow the "U.S. Department of the Interior,"Secretary Salazar, to have authority over as well in the transporting and harvesting of energy, oil and renewable sources.
- The DOI has power over this shelf and who can put wind turbines there.
- "Under the Federal Power Act, FERC" has the authority to develop and watch over all hydropower resources in United States waters.
- All these organizations factor into who and when people can develop wither the OCS or any other areas off the U.S. coast.
- Recently more movements have been made to use this power for more sustainable energy related sources rather than just oil.
- Efforts are being made to diminish pointless policies that interfere with the development of wind systems offshore as well as Obama's plan for 20% wind growth by 2030.
- Some serious actions must be made in order to achieve Obama's energy plans for the U.S.
- Secretary Salazar has made renewable energy a top priority for the department as well as setting up federal "renewable energy zones," where wind systems can be built.
- The "DOI manages one fifth of land in the U.S., as well as 1.7 billion acres on the OCS." This means a lot of land available to be put into renewable energy zones. Parts of this are ideal for wind energy, especially those offshore on the OCS.
- In 2005 this act was amended to allow the "U.S. Department of the Interior,"Secretary Salazar, to have authority over as well in the transporting and harvesting of energy, oil and renewable sources.
- The DOI has power over this shelf and who can put wind turbines there.
- "Under the Federal Power Act, FERC" has the authority to develop and watch over all hydropower resources in United States waters.
- All these organizations factor into who and when people can develop wither the OCS or any other areas off the U.S. coast.
- Recently more movements have been made to use this power for more sustainable energy related sources rather than just oil.
- Efforts are being made to diminish pointless policies that interfere with the development of wind systems offshore as well as Obama's plan for 20% wind growth by 2030.
- Some serious actions must be made in order to achieve Obama's energy plans for the U.S.
- Secretary Salazar has made renewable energy a top priority for the department as well as setting up federal "renewable energy zones," where wind systems can be built.
- The "DOI manages one fifth of land in the U.S., as well as 1.7 billion acres on the OCS." This means a lot of land available to be put into renewable energy zones. Parts of this are ideal for wind energy, especially those offshore on the OCS.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Response 10: Barack Obama and Joe Biden: New Energy for America
I think there is no question in saying that Obama has ambitious plans for the next couple of decades. However, if he could ever accomplish a half of what he is promising, this country would be a much more powerful, and improved nation. I think it is so great that he is starting his campaign for green energy by example. Converting all the White House staff, residents, and anyone else having to do with the White House's cars into hybrids is a great idea to kick it off. It seems like Obama is doing what should have been done many, many years ago: creating jobs in America to manufacture our products. Shipping goods oversees to be manufactured and them assembled just doesn't add up. I would like to learn more about Obama's plans to make the gas companies pay up for the absurd profits they gained over their inflation this past year. I would also like to find out if the money given back to citizens is to be used towards gas purchases or whether its just a refund. Obama seems like he is offering many tax credits or refunds for people willing to invest in green energy systems. I hope all these actions are implemented sooner rather than later as they are promised. If so, we may be taking a giant step towards being a competitor in the sustainable energy market today.
Friday, March 6, 2009
Article 10: Barack Obama and Joe Biden: New Energy for America
- Obama Biden's plan for energy in the coming years creates many opportunities for Americans to get rebates and subsidies from the government.
- Obama wants to create "five million new jobs by strategically investing $150 billion over the next ten years" in the sustainable energy market.
- By 2015 he also intends to get "1 million plug-in hybrid cars on the road."
- Obama plans to have 10% of our energy be renewable by 2012, and 25% by 2025
- He wants to "reduce greenhouse gas emissions 80% by 2050."
- Barack Obama and Biden have promised the nation "immediate relief," and as a start to this relief they are making the gas companies provide 500 dollars to the individual and 5,000 to every married couple.
- Their plan includes a cap on carbon emissions as well as creating manufacturing and training facilities for the making of green products.
- Not only does Obama plan to create $7,000 tax credits for Americans willing to buy plug-in, or battery powered cars, but will also convert all the white house's cars into plug-in vehicles.
- Barack Obama is cracking down on oil companies, those companies that have excess land that they are not drilling on must either "use it, or lose it." If the oil companies do not use their spare land, they must turn it over to another company that will.
- Nuclear power accounts for over 70 percent of our non carbon generated electricity.
- Obama is looking into clean coal and nuclear power as other energy alternatives.
- His plan is also focused on energy efficiency. Another goal states that "new building efficiency by 50 percent and existing building efficiency [must be improved] by 25 percent over the next decade."
- Obama plans to weatherize "1 million homes annually."
- Obama wants to create "five million new jobs by strategically investing $150 billion over the next ten years" in the sustainable energy market.
- By 2015 he also intends to get "1 million plug-in hybrid cars on the road."
- Obama plans to have 10% of our energy be renewable by 2012, and 25% by 2025
- He wants to "reduce greenhouse gas emissions 80% by 2050."
- Barack Obama and Biden have promised the nation "immediate relief," and as a start to this relief they are making the gas companies provide 500 dollars to the individual and 5,000 to every married couple.
- Their plan includes a cap on carbon emissions as well as creating manufacturing and training facilities for the making of green products.
- Not only does Obama plan to create $7,000 tax credits for Americans willing to buy plug-in, or battery powered cars, but will also convert all the white house's cars into plug-in vehicles.
- There is currently "68 million acres of land, [and] over 40 million offshore" that are not being used.
- Barack Obama is cracking down on oil companies, those companies that have excess land that they are not drilling on must either "use it, or lose it." If the oil companies do not use their spare land, they must turn it over to another company that will.
- Nuclear power accounts for over 70 percent of our non carbon generated electricity.
- Obama is looking into clean coal and nuclear power as other energy alternatives.
- His plan is also focused on energy efficiency. Another goal states that "new building efficiency by 50 percent and existing building efficiency [must be improved] by 25 percent over the next decade."
- Obama plans to weatherize "1 million homes annually."
Final focus; further research needed
The isearch process is finally coming to an end and while I am delighted to hear thism, there is also a certain reality that sets in. I am surprisingly deflated when it comes to the thought of no more blog posts. I may even continue with research of my topic after the end of this project; however I would really like to incorporate some very useful information in my last two blog posts and interview. One aspect of the blog I'd love to pursue is Obama's plans for energy for the future. The energy crisis is a reality regardless of what some disbelievers think. I am hoping Obama will really put forth a sincere effort in finding solutions sooner rather than later. I have a general idea of what his plan merely by listening to some of his speeches. From these I gathered a genuine interest on his part to address the issue and not put it off as did some of our previous leaders. I imagine it will not be terribly difficult to find an article that describes his plans for energy as it is such a popular focus in the media today.
My final article should be a real 'wrap up' to my blog. Something that gives it a bit of a conclusion. Obviously there is no end to this topic as fuels will continue to be transformed and improved in the future; however I would like to do the best I can in comparing the practical fuels of our world today. I'd like to focus my blog on the real life issue of sustainable fuel, not the research and possibilities of the future, but what system is best for your home in America now. Specifically fuels such as wind and solar as these I have come to accept as the most legitimate answers to the energy crisis in our homes.
The interview/experience aspect of my blog needs to be realistic. Specifically I would like to interview someone who either owns a sustainable energy system in their home or at their workplace. This will hopefully give my isearch a personal touch that will connect it to its readers/viewers. I can't stress enough how interested in this issue I am. I feel people need to become more educated when it comes to our impact on the environment, and not view it as 'something that won't effect me in my lifetime' because the truth is; it will. Scientists have already predicted when certain catastrophes like the final melting of polar ice caps will happen. My message to listeners is; this is a real crisis, and it will affect you.
My final article should be a real 'wrap up' to my blog. Something that gives it a bit of a conclusion. Obviously there is no end to this topic as fuels will continue to be transformed and improved in the future; however I would like to do the best I can in comparing the practical fuels of our world today. I'd like to focus my blog on the real life issue of sustainable fuel, not the research and possibilities of the future, but what system is best for your home in America now. Specifically fuels such as wind and solar as these I have come to accept as the most legitimate answers to the energy crisis in our homes.
The interview/experience aspect of my blog needs to be realistic. Specifically I would like to interview someone who either owns a sustainable energy system in their home or at their workplace. This will hopefully give my isearch a personal touch that will connect it to its readers/viewers. I can't stress enough how interested in this issue I am. I feel people need to become more educated when it comes to our impact on the environment, and not view it as 'something that won't effect me in my lifetime' because the truth is; it will. Scientists have already predicted when certain catastrophes like the final melting of polar ice caps will happen. My message to listeners is; this is a real crisis, and it will affect you.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Just a note..
For whomever reads this blog: consider using the fallowing search engine instead of google, as the black background saves energy!
http://www.blackle.com/
http://www.blackle.com/
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Response 9: Quarter of UK homes to be offered a green makover
This plan that the UK made is a great start. It will definitely take longer for America to get to this point, but having countries like the UK already make plans to reduce their carbon footprint by 80% in 40 years is a awesome beginning. Hopefully America will follow along these lines and offer greater tax cuts and subsidies towards those who take part in this future. However, the UK's government seriously has to step up their actions if their planning on reaching this goal. Converting everyone to green energy is such a huge job that it will take decades, and possible centuries. Countries need to get started now, as fast as they can. Many more research grants should also be created so that one fuel for a car can be decided on, and fuels for homes can be worked out as to what is the best system. Europe has begun this journey, and the US needs to follow its footsteps sooner rather than later.
Article 9: Quarter of UK homes to be offered a green makover
-The UK intends to give one of every 4 homes an "eco-makeover"
- These makeovers will involve a complete refit of insulation.
- These cuts are expected to lower the UK's houshold carbon emmisons by one third as of 2020.
- Currently, 27% of greenhouse gas emissons in the UK come from households.
- The proposals are expected to "create thousands of jobs."
- The "estimated the cost of insulation and small-scale clean energy alone [is about] £2bn-£12.9bn a year."
- The Uk's goverment plans to cut its carbon emmisons 80% by 2050.
- 5 million households in the UK spend 10% or more of "their income on heat and power."
- "A report by Oxford University's Environmental Change Institute in 2007" discovered that only 4 out of every 1,000 homes had "low-and-zero carbon technologies."
- These makeovers will involve a complete refit of insulation.
- These cuts are expected to lower the UK's houshold carbon emmisons by one third as of 2020.
- Currently, 27% of greenhouse gas emissons in the UK come from households.
- The proposals are expected to "create thousands of jobs."
- The "estimated the cost of insulation and small-scale clean energy alone [is about] £2bn-£12.9bn a year."
- The Uk's goverment plans to cut its carbon emmisons 80% by 2050.
- 5 million households in the UK spend 10% or more of "their income on heat and power."
- "A report by Oxford University's Environmental Change Institute in 2007" discovered that only 4 out of every 1,000 homes had "low-and-zero carbon technologies."
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Response 8: IST Energy Announces Waste-to-Energy System That Turns Trash into Clean Energy
This unit sounds like a great idea especially because it takes waste (the other aspect of this project that im interested in) and turns it into clean fuel! And although it can be installed "on location," it may be too big for most homes. This is a great idea, and its teriffic that this new technology is being explored and bcoming a reality. Maybe in the future this machine can become more compact and smaller. Right now it is ideal for public or big places that produce a lot of waste.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Article 8: IST Energy Announces Waste-to-Energy System That Turns Trash into Clean Energy
- "IST Energy today" announced the beginning of their "GEM waste-to-energy conversion system."
- This system is small enough to be installed on location and converts waste into small pellets that can then be used as fuel.
- The start of distribution of this product is being planned for this summer.
- This machine eliminates "95 percent of daily consumer waste, such as paper, plastic, food, wood and agricultural materials."
- The GEM is a "clean energy producer."
- Because wastedoes not have to be removed, it also reduces the cost of public waste removal.
- The energy that the GEM produces is not only clean, but also powers the GEM, making the unit sustainable as well.
- The down side is that the unit is "eight feet high and covers about the size of three standard parking spaces."
- This size may not be ideal for installation at your house, but is good for any places like parks, department stores, and big buildings.
- "One unit processes up to three tons of waste daily, providing the energy to power and heat a 200,000 square foot building housing more than 500 people - all in all reducing annual waste disposal and energy costs by about $250,000."
- This system is small enough to be installed on location and converts waste into small pellets that can then be used as fuel.
- The start of distribution of this product is being planned for this summer.
- This machine eliminates "95 percent of daily consumer waste, such as paper, plastic, food, wood and agricultural materials."
- The GEM is a "clean energy producer."
- Because wastedoes not have to be removed, it also reduces the cost of public waste removal.
- The energy that the GEM produces is not only clean, but also powers the GEM, making the unit sustainable as well.
- The down side is that the unit is "eight feet high and covers about the size of three standard parking spaces."
- This size may not be ideal for installation at your house, but is good for any places like parks, department stores, and big buildings.
- "One unit processes up to three tons of waste daily, providing the energy to power and heat a 200,000 square foot building housing more than 500 people - all in all reducing annual waste disposal and energy costs by about $250,000."
Monday, January 19, 2009
Response 7: Tapping the Earth For Energy
It's a really cool idea that you could potentially heat your house from the earth or use the earth to cool your house as well, but this article made some important points to homeowners. Obviously drilling deep into the earth is going to cost a bit no matter where you so it, but if you live somewhere with a lot of rock it might not be the cheapest route to sustainable energy. If it costs "50% more" than ones normal energy bill, most likely people won't go for it. On the other side of this dilemma, large buildings have a lot to gain from this situation. Drilling into the earth (the main part of why it's so expensive) may be worth it to builders who have to look forward to buying huge and costly fossil fuel powered heaters. This novel idea can be helpful in some situations, and therefore should continue to be looked into, but is obviously not a overall solution the need for alternate fuels.
Friday, January 16, 2009
Article 7: Tapping The Earth For Energy
- Around 50,000 geothermal energy units are installed per year "according to the Department of Energy."
- A geothermal system will end up costing around 50% more that a fossil fuel based heating and cooling system.
- The main reason geothermal systems are so expensive is because of the drilling to put the pipes in. This process can cost "tens of thousands of dollars alone."
- These pumps could possibley end up costing "$17,000 to $30,000."
- This system is rather tricky not only to put in, but to make sure you even should be using geothermal is a whole other issue. Certain places will not get the full benefit of this system because of the climate.
- In some cases geothermal in cheaper. Those cases are often not homeowners who get the deal, but larger buildings that could benefit from the system more.
- In 2006, "Harvard University installed six ground-source heat pumps as part of its Green Campus initiative"
- Geothermal systems work by pumps and pipes that are put into the earth to take from the all year temperature in the ground. In cold months the pipes draw warm air up from the ground and into the building, while in hotter summer months the pipes carry some of the hotter air out of the house and bring the cooler air from the earth into the house.
- Pumps inside the house push and pull "water or a working fluid, such as antifreeze" into the earth so that when the liquid comes back out it brings with it the temperature.
- A geothermal system will end up costing around 50% more that a fossil fuel based heating and cooling system.
- The main reason geothermal systems are so expensive is because of the drilling to put the pipes in. This process can cost "tens of thousands of dollars alone."
- These pumps could possibley end up costing "$17,000 to $30,000."
- This system is rather tricky not only to put in, but to make sure you even should be using geothermal is a whole other issue. Certain places will not get the full benefit of this system because of the climate.
- In some cases geothermal in cheaper. Those cases are often not homeowners who get the deal, but larger buildings that could benefit from the system more.
- In 2006, "Harvard University installed six ground-source heat pumps as part of its Green Campus initiative"
- Geothermal systems work by pumps and pipes that are put into the earth to take from the all year temperature in the ground. In cold months the pipes draw warm air up from the ground and into the building, while in hotter summer months the pipes carry some of the hotter air out of the house and bring the cooler air from the earth into the house.
- Pumps inside the house push and pull "water or a working fluid, such as antifreeze" into the earth so that when the liquid comes back out it brings with it the temperature.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Wow Trina, great job. Your notes are full of facts, there isn't any useless information getting in the way. I really enjoyed reading about Obama, he is definitely someone to research if you want to broaden the information your gathering. Also, wonderful job responding to each post, each one is thoughtful and reflects nicely back on the article. Your hard work really paid off.
Alex G's 3rd responce
These articles were really good, I loved the variety and all the information on fuel and how to get better fuel to use. My favorite was the one about Obama and how he wants to raise everything up, and make it better. I think that was a really interesting article to read and think about. Thinking all that could change in 3 years is really neat and hopefully it will happen. I bet there are a lot of articles about this in newspapers and magazines.
Aimee Response Reflection
Katrina, I like that you have factual information ( as in dealing with numbers) as well as non factual information. I also like how you have an article on Augusta, I like that you included our state into your blog. You also have an article on Obama! I can maybe use that for my information. Your blog is extremely well organized and neat. Maybe personalizing your notes a little bit more would be good.
Alex Hadik- In Class Response
Katrina-
This is an incredible blog. You are finding some great information. There is really nothing that I can say you should improve. I really like how you have taken your notes. Personally, I can comprehend information when it is listed in that manner. No personal opinions, no interpretations, just the facts. You leave your opinions for your response which is also superb. If I am to get very critical of your blog to find any reason to give you an 85 over a 95, it would lie within the responses. They are great interpretations and really an amazing piece of work but some very simple grammatical errors or perhaps assumed information do find their way in. This really is a non-problem however since it in now way detracts from your blog as a whole. If I were you, I would perhaps check out the Cape Wind Project for an article. I'm not sure that you will find any recent information but it might be a good place to find some background information. Also, check out what is happening in France as far as nuclear power is concerned and look into Holland for wind power. It might be interesting to find how the governments of these countries have better supported the development of sustainable fuels as compared to America and the Bush Administrations apparent inaction as a whole to the issue.
This is an incredible blog. You are finding some great information. There is really nothing that I can say you should improve. I really like how you have taken your notes. Personally, I can comprehend information when it is listed in that manner. No personal opinions, no interpretations, just the facts. You leave your opinions for your response which is also superb. If I am to get very critical of your blog to find any reason to give you an 85 over a 95, it would lie within the responses. They are great interpretations and really an amazing piece of work but some very simple grammatical errors or perhaps assumed information do find their way in. This really is a non-problem however since it in now way detracts from your blog as a whole. If I were you, I would perhaps check out the Cape Wind Project for an article. I'm not sure that you will find any recent information but it might be a good place to find some background information. Also, check out what is happening in France as far as nuclear power is concerned and look into Holland for wind power. It might be interesting to find how the governments of these countries have better supported the development of sustainable fuels as compared to America and the Bush Administrations apparent inaction as a whole to the issue.
Samara's response to articles 4, 5, and 6.
Katrina, I feel you are doing very well so far. Your articles are interesting and informing. It sounds like sustainable fuel could make it's way in this country! It would be nice if more people could afford wind and solar energy sources. Obama's plan will be nice to follow through with.
The only thing I can suggest at the moment would be to compile your article clippings into one big paragraph so that it flows easier. Other than that you are doing fine. Keep up the great work!
The only thing I can suggest at the moment would be to compile your article clippings into one big paragraph so that it flows easier. Other than that you are doing fine. Keep up the great work!
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Response 6: Obama Team, Exxon Mobil Chief Trade Jabs on Energy
I had been looking for an article on what some of Obama's ideas for economical growth and recovery are, and now that I found some of them out, I can't believe how great and yet how drastic they are. Only three years to double our alternate energy use?! Three years is not long to get this done, so the question is: is this goal realistic or is it exactly the kind of movement America needs to take a leading role in the fight against green-house gas emissions? Hopefully these standards are not to high and will in fact get the ball rolling in renewable and sustainable energy. It's truly hard to believe that currently 1% of electricity is generated by sustainable sources such as wind, solar, and geothermal. A jump to 25% is a huge change even though it's only a quarter of our electricity.
Obama plans to create jobs for people to work towards these impressive goals like jobs making solar panels and wind turbines. This solves two of Americas biggest problems at the same time: unemployment and the energy crisis. It's like in the great depression when the government gave people jobs working to make the country better, like building bridges and roads. Hopefully these innovative and drastic changes will get the U.S. moving again towards a brighter future.
Obama plans to create jobs for people to work towards these impressive goals like jobs making solar panels and wind turbines. This solves two of Americas biggest problems at the same time: unemployment and the energy crisis. It's like in the great depression when the government gave people jobs working to make the country better, like building bridges and roads. Hopefully these innovative and drastic changes will get the U.S. moving again towards a brighter future.
Article 6: Obama Team, Exxon Mobil Chief Trade Jabs on Energy
- Over the next three years Barack Obama pledged to double sustainable fuel production.
- The "chief executive of Exxon Mobil Corp., Rex Tillerson" was skeptical of Obama's promise and claimed that a change of that proportion would be "very challenging."
- Tillerson went further to say "'Let's be realistic about time frames, let's don't fool ourselves,'" and "'In terms of wind, there simply is not the manufacturing capacity today to build wind turbines…they're already back ordered.'"
- By 2006 "fossil fuels accounted for 85%" of America's energy source. In 1973 fossil fuels were at "93%." That's only a decrease by 8%.
- If we have 15% of our energy being supplied by alternate sources than doubling that would mean 30% of our energy came from renewable sources. That's almost a third of our energy.
- Obama plans to reach this goal by creating jobs for people making wind turbines and solar panels, and research in "'developing new energy technologies.'"
- Barack also plans to reach the goal of doubling alternate energy "through a combination of mandates and subsidies."
- America produces "24,000 MW [megawatts] of wind, solar, and geothermal power" at this point in time.
- Solar, wind, and geothermal energy currently accounts for about 1% of Americas electricity supply. Obama wants to move that number up to 25%, a huge increase.
- Mr. Tillerson said "the company expects oil and natural gas to remain the dominant fuels for decades."
- The "chief executive of Exxon Mobil Corp., Rex Tillerson" was skeptical of Obama's promise and claimed that a change of that proportion would be "very challenging."
- Tillerson went further to say "'Let's be realistic about time frames, let's don't fool ourselves,'" and "'In terms of wind, there simply is not the manufacturing capacity today to build wind turbines…they're already back ordered.'"
- By 2006 "fossil fuels accounted for 85%" of America's energy source. In 1973 fossil fuels were at "93%." That's only a decrease by 8%.
- If we have 15% of our energy being supplied by alternate sources than doubling that would mean 30% of our energy came from renewable sources. That's almost a third of our energy.
- Obama plans to reach this goal by creating jobs for people making wind turbines and solar panels, and research in "'developing new energy technologies.'"
- Barack also plans to reach the goal of doubling alternate energy "through a combination of mandates and subsidies."
- America produces "24,000 MW [megawatts] of wind, solar, and geothermal power" at this point in time.
- Solar, wind, and geothermal energy currently accounts for about 1% of Americas electricity supply. Obama wants to move that number up to 25%, a huge increase.
- Mr. Tillerson said "the company expects oil and natural gas to remain the dominant fuels for decades."
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Background Response 2: Hydrogen Economy
This chapter was really interesting because it made me think about hydrogen as a possible answer to the quest of finding a sustainable fuel. It's so cool that the process of combining hydrogen with oxygen is what can power cars, and that the only byproduct of this reaction is water. That begs the question though, is the water clean after going through a car? When the article started talking about how "The energy you can extract from hydrogen is less than the energy you put into making it" I wondered how hydrogen could ever be useful. Also, is it really smart to be using water, a resource so important to the existence of life, as fuel?
Iceland is already in the process of making this dream a reality. They have the advantage because converting their smaller country is much easier than converting a much, much bigger country like the U.S. t0 hydro power. The chapter said that this conversion in Iceland could be complete in 2040. That's only 30 years from now when this country could be completely free from carbon dioxide emissions. While the U.S isn't even close to finding a overall solution to the sustainable fuel problem. There are many other problems with hydrogen which can apparently be fixed, however, great precaution needs to be used because of how explosive compressed hydrogen is. Perhaps these problems lead back to the idea of having many different fuels. Maybe a combination of fuels needs to be used to satisfy the huge demand for fuel and electricity.
Iceland is already in the process of making this dream a reality. They have the advantage because converting their smaller country is much easier than converting a much, much bigger country like the U.S. t0 hydro power. The chapter said that this conversion in Iceland could be complete in 2040. That's only 30 years from now when this country could be completely free from carbon dioxide emissions. While the U.S isn't even close to finding a overall solution to the sustainable fuel problem. There are many other problems with hydrogen which can apparently be fixed, however, great precaution needs to be used because of how explosive compressed hydrogen is. Perhaps these problems lead back to the idea of having many different fuels. Maybe a combination of fuels needs to be used to satisfy the huge demand for fuel and electricity.
Background Article 2: Hydrogen Economy
"For 50 years Iceland has been using its plentiful hydro and geothermal electricity to heat buildings and extract hydrogen from water using an electrolytic process. It is beginning to use offshore wind turbines..."
"Hydrogen can be combined with oxygen again to become water again and, in the process, drive a fuel cell motor."
"...program in Iceland may not be complete until at least 2040."
"Hydrogen is the most abundant element in the universe..."
"The energy you can extract from hydrogen is less than the energy you put into making it..."
"...using gas or oil to make it is more damaging than using these fuels themselves."
"Only solar, wind or water flow technologies that produce renewable electricity can avoid greenhouse gas emissions."
"Hydrogen reacts with metals making containers brittle, it evaporates even from within a container, it seeps, it has low energy content against volume so it has to be stored under pressure, endangering explosion; or it can be liquefied, but this needs constant refrigeration."
"To meet our present energy needs with compressed hydrogen or cars and liquefied hydrogen for airplanes would require three times the electricity we generate..."
"Hydrogen can be combined with oxygen again to become water again and, in the process, drive a fuel cell motor."
"...program in Iceland may not be complete until at least 2040."
"Hydrogen is the most abundant element in the universe..."
"The energy you can extract from hydrogen is less than the energy you put into making it..."
"...using gas or oil to make it is more damaging than using these fuels themselves."
"Only solar, wind or water flow technologies that produce renewable electricity can avoid greenhouse gas emissions."
"Hydrogen reacts with metals making containers brittle, it evaporates even from within a container, it seeps, it has low energy content against volume so it has to be stored under pressure, endangering explosion; or it can be liquefied, but this needs constant refrigeration."
"To meet our present energy needs with compressed hydrogen or cars and liquefied hydrogen for airplanes would require three times the electricity we generate..."
Friday, January 2, 2009
Response 5: AUGUSTA: Getting wind of saving cash
This article was really cool to find because not only is it local, but it tells about offers that are being made to people in Maine to help them pay for getting wind or solar power! This is a great way to get people started when it comes to reaching out and taking the initiative to get renewable energy for yourself. The rebates that are being given out sound like they're going fast, and there aren't many of them. $1,000 or 25% of the bill is a lot to take off, especially for many Mainers. This could just be enough for some homeowners or businesses to get the push they've been needing to go green. Unfortunately it sounds like the demand might outway the supply and people who apply would have to be selected at random for this rebate.
Programs like this are just what Americans need. If people can get this type of discount and then pay the rest off as their monthly energy bill, then way more people would be interested in sustainable energy. The general population should also be more informed about the options of sustainable energy, so they can make the right choice for they environment. For example, wind is a natural choice for Maine, as well as solar energy is a good choice for more southern states like Florida and Georgia. I also believe that the government should create more of these programs and grants like this because it sounded as though this program was struggling of lack of money to distribute. Overall this is a great plan to get people started with sustainable energy options.
Programs like this are just what Americans need. If people can get this type of discount and then pay the rest off as their monthly energy bill, then way more people would be interested in sustainable energy. The general population should also be more informed about the options of sustainable energy, so they can make the right choice for they environment. For example, wind is a natural choice for Maine, as well as solar energy is a good choice for more southern states like Florida and Georgia. I also believe that the government should create more of these programs and grants like this because it sounded as though this program was struggling of lack of money to distribute. Overall this is a great plan to get people started with sustainable energy options.
Article 5: AUGUSTA: Getting wind of saving cash
- "Efficiency Maine, a Maine Public Utilities Commission program," has created this program for small business or residential inhabitants that are looking to install small wind energy systems on their land.
- A new state program offers "Rebates of up to $2,000 for qualified residential wind systems ..."
- Rebates for nonresidential wind systems are available up to "$4,000."
- The demand for these rebates exceeded the funding available last year. The funding has been renewed, but is still limited so it will most likely run out again this year.
- "maximum rebate for qualified systems will be $1,000 -- or 25 percent of the installed cost, whichever is less -- for both residential or commercial applications."
- Solar photovoltaic systems have a maximum rebate of "$2,000 per installation."
- Applicants may be selected at random if the funding runs out again by the 1st quarter.
- A new state program offers "Rebates of up to $2,000 for qualified residential wind systems ..."
- Rebates for nonresidential wind systems are available up to "$4,000."
- The demand for these rebates exceeded the funding available last year. The funding has been renewed, but is still limited so it will most likely run out again this year.
- "maximum rebate for qualified systems will be $1,000 -- or 25 percent of the installed cost, whichever is less -- for both residential or commercial applications."
- Solar photovoltaic systems have a maximum rebate of "$2,000 per installation."
- Applicants may be selected at random if the funding runs out again by the 1st quarter.
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