Sunday, December 4, 2011
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Solar Power Comes To Dauphin County!
For those of you who missed the news in October, the Dauphin County Commissioners unveiled a new municipal owned solar farm. The 4,340 solar panels sits on five acres of land and is one of the largest municipal owned solar farms in Pennsylvania.
Photo courtesy of Patriot News.
The farm will produce up to 1.4 million kilowatts per year, enough energy to produce between 18-20% of the electricity used in Dauphin County facilities.The entire Patriot News article can be found here.
Sources:
www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2011/10/dauphin_county_commissioners_u_2.html
The Philadelphia Naval Yard Gets A New "Efficient" Look
Take a stroll down to the Naval Yard in Philadelphia and you're bound to find the new Greater Philadelphia Innovation Cluster (GPIC) for Energy-Efficient Buildings.
Founded in 2010, it is a federal multi-agency funding opportunity to help create an "Energy Innovation Hub to develop innovative energy efficient building technologies, designs and systems."
While many people are searching for solutions to integrating alternative energy into the nation's infrastructure, GPIC has a different primary goal. "GPIC is not focused on the alternative energy generation," said Christine Knapp, the Manager of Public and Client Relations at GPIC. "We are more focused on reducing energy consumption in the first place. The cheapest and cleanest energy is the kind you do not use."
Much of the $129 million in funding from the federal government came from the Department Of Energy. GPIC is supported by over 70 companies that range from banks and community organizations, to various industry associations. Penn State University is also very involved as the GPIC has 24 members with the University leading the way. "Penn State is the lead organization and helps to manage the overall success of GPIC by handling the funds directly from the Department Of Energy."
Whether it is designing new tools, integrating existing technology, trying to influence public policy, or collaborating on projects, GPIC hopes to transform the building retrofit environment, stimulate private investment and create jobs both in Philadelphia and the nation as a whole.
GPIC is also helping students learn about energy solutions. "We've also helped to start a new school at the Navy Yard called the Sustainability Workshop," said Knapp. "It's a full-day project-based learning program for high school seniors that allows them to learn and engage in energy efficiency efforts."
The work going on at the Philadelphia Naval Yard is just another example of efforts being done to find new and innovative ways to solve the many issues regarding how we use our energy. While there is much to be done, it is exciting to see this type of work take place in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Sources:
www.flyingkitemedia.com/features/sustainabilityworkshop1003.aspx
www.gpichub.org
Friday, December 2, 2011
Could Hydrogen Help Produce The Automobile Of The Future?
Another interesting energy source of the future is being researched at Penn State University. The H2E Center in State College is a place where over 100 researchers are taking part in long term research projects to develop ways on how to produce and consume hydrogen.
Though it's estimated some of these enhancements may not be available for several decades, the potential of large scale hydrogen production would be a breakthrough in the efforts to use more efficient and cleaner energy.
As stated on their website, "(a) new energy source must be cheap, renewable, and environmentally clean. Non-polluting hydrogen—energy-dense and the most abundant element in nature—meets two of these requirements in spades."
While the prospect of finding a new energy source is very exciting, Bruce Logan, a professor of environmental engineering and director of Penn State's Hydrogen Energy Center sees costs as a major concern. "We need cheaper and better materials; in every facet of development—for the catalysts and membranes that make up fuel cells; for the safe, efficient storage of hydrogen aboard vehicles; for the solar cells that will be key to hydrogen production."
It is true that large scale hydrogen power use for things such as a
n automobile may be several decades away. But through the work done at places such as the H2E Center at Penn State, we continue to see new breakthroughs in hydrogen technology.
For example, Penn State currently has one of the only hydrogen fueling stations on the east coast. Several utility vans, public transportation buses and fuel cell cars currently use the station.
No one debates the fact it will take a long time for hydrogen to become a major player when it comes to being the "fuel" for a car we drive. While the technology is there, the expense right now is too high. However, it is worth taking a look at what our future may look like. Tom Considine, a Penn State professor in natural resource economics believes hydrogen is what many people are hoping will be our dominant fuel source in the future. "Scientists, engineers, and politicians see the great promise of hydrogen as a clean fuel, (with) no pollution. That's the nirvana that everyone's looking for."
As scientists continue to research ways on how to bring the costs of hydrogen down, there are a number of other alternative energies people can use. As it pertains to cars, hybrids have been out for nearly a decade and just this year, the Nissan Leaf and Chevy Volt were introduced to the market as some of the first electric cars to come to America.
Because of the work being done at institutions like Penn State, it's a matter of when, not if, we see hydrogen power come to our homes.
Sources:
www.engr.psu.edu/h2e/AboutH2E.htm
www.engr.psu.edu/h2e/index.htm
www.rps.psu.edu/hydrogen/fill.html
www.rps.psu.edu/hydrogen/price.html
Photo Courtesy Of Joel Anstrom
Though it's estimated some of these enhancements may not be available for several decades, the potential of large scale hydrogen production would be a breakthrough in the efforts to use more efficient and cleaner energy.
As stated on their website, "(a) new energy source must be cheap, renewable, and environmentally clean. Non-polluting hydrogen—energy-dense and the most abundant element in nature—meets two of these requirements in spades."
While the prospect of finding a new energy source is very exciting, Bruce Logan, a professor of environmental engineering and director of Penn State's Hydrogen Energy Center sees costs as a major concern. "We need cheaper and better materials; in every facet of development—for the catalysts and membranes that make up fuel cells; for the safe, efficient storage of hydrogen aboard vehicles; for the solar cells that will be key to hydrogen production."
It is true that large scale hydrogen power use for things such as a
n automobile may be several decades away. But through the work done at places such as the H2E Center at Penn State, we continue to see new breakthroughs in hydrogen technology.For example, Penn State currently has one of the only hydrogen fueling stations on the east coast. Several utility vans, public transportation buses and fuel cell cars currently use the station.
No one debates the fact it will take a long time for hydrogen to become a major player when it comes to being the "fuel" for a car we drive. While the technology is there, the expense right now is too high. However, it is worth taking a look at what our future may look like. Tom Considine, a Penn State professor in natural resource economics believes hydrogen is what many people are hoping will be our dominant fuel source in the future. "Scientists, engineers, and politicians see the great promise of hydrogen as a clean fuel, (with) no pollution. That's the nirvana that everyone's looking for."
As scientists continue to research ways on how to bring the costs of hydrogen down, there are a number of other alternative energies people can use. As it pertains to cars, hybrids have been out for nearly a decade and just this year, the Nissan Leaf and Chevy Volt were introduced to the market as some of the first electric cars to come to America.
Because of the work being done at institutions like Penn State, it's a matter of when, not if, we see hydrogen power come to our homes.
Sources:
www.engr.psu.edu/h2e/AboutH2E.htm
www.engr.psu.edu/h2e/index.htm
www.rps.psu.edu/hydrogen/fill.html
www.rps.psu.edu/hydrogen/price.html
Photo Courtesy Of Joel Anstrom
Want A New Alternative Energy Solution? What About Your Nearest Landfill?
For decades, Americans throw out their garbage into a bin, take it to their driveway and wait for garbage men or women to take the trash to the nearest landfill. What if I were to tell you that trash could turn out to be an energy resource?
Areas such as Long Island are exploring this option as can been seen in an article by the Journal Of Renewable and Sustainable Energy. According to the report, large amounts of biogas are available to be mined in these landfills on Long Island, which at 118 miles long, is one of the largest islands in the country.
As reporter Stuart Fox notes, "that energy, in the form of biogas reserves produced by decomposing trash, is valued at over $100 million and could fulfill a significant portion of Long Island's power needs."
The study done by researchers from Stony Brook University and the Brookhaven National Laboratory goes into great detail about this new potential renewable resource and how it can help lower the dependency of other energy resources such as oil and coal. In addition, the study summarizes additional benefits about developing this type of energy including the "the potential to reduce waste management costs, reduce waste odors, and create local jobs and revenues."
The biogas discussed here occurs when bacteria breaks down organic products such as solid waste and wood products and subsequently produces a mixture of carbon dioxide and methane.
While the study notes the feasibility of extracting this gas, there are still several barriers in the way. First off, the cost of doing this in suburban areas (such as the Cumberland Valley for example) would be more expensive than if done in New York City. The report summary written by Stuart also mentions the fact that there are still additional technological advances that must be made. "Technology upgrades are needed to transform any kind of biogas reserve into pipeline quality gas," Stuart said.
With all of that said it is exciting to see time and resources are being spent on finding ways to one day use this type of renewable energy. There may indeed come a time when our trash helps produce electricity or even automotive fuel.
Sources:
jrse.aip.org/biogas_bonanza_rests_beneath_trash-packed_landfills
jrse.aip.org/resource/1/jrsebh/v3/i4/p043118_s1?view=fulltext
Areas such as Long Island are exploring this option as can been seen in an article by the Journal Of Renewable and Sustainable Energy. According to the report, large amounts of biogas are available to be mined in these landfills on Long Island, which at 118 miles long, is one of the largest islands in the country.
As reporter Stuart Fox notes, "that energy, in the form of biogas reserves produced by decomposing trash, is valued at over $100 million and could fulfill a significant portion of Long Island's power needs."
The study done by researchers from Stony Brook University and the Brookhaven National Laboratory goes into great detail about this new potential renewable resource and how it can help lower the dependency of other energy resources such as oil and coal. In addition, the study summarizes additional benefits about developing this type of energy including the "the potential to reduce waste management costs, reduce waste odors, and create local jobs and revenues."
The biogas discussed here occurs when bacteria breaks down organic products such as solid waste and wood products and subsequently produces a mixture of carbon dioxide and methane.
A look at the landfills of Pennsylvania
Source. governor.state.pa.us
While the study notes the feasibility of extracting this gas, there are still several barriers in the way. First off, the cost of doing this in suburban areas (such as the Cumberland Valley for example) would be more expensive than if done in New York City. The report summary written by Stuart also mentions the fact that there are still additional technological advances that must be made. "Technology upgrades are needed to transform any kind of biogas reserve into pipeline quality gas," Stuart said.
With all of that said it is exciting to see time and resources are being spent on finding ways to one day use this type of renewable energy. There may indeed come a time when our trash helps produce electricity or even automotive fuel.
Sources:
jrse.aip.org/biogas_bonanza_rests_beneath_trash-packed_landfills
jrse.aip.org/resource/1/jrsebh/v3/i4/p043118_s1?view=fulltext
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
What Is A Green Bank?
There is exciting news going on in the Nutmeg State as Connecticut became the first state in the country to create a Green Bank. But what exactly is a "Green Bank"?
"A Green Bank is a quasi-governmental entity that provides low-cost financing for clean energy and energy efficiency projects through direct loans or loan guarantees," explained Alex Kragie, a Vice President for the "Coalition For Green Capital."
Mark Muro and Brookings Institute also had this to say about the new Green Bank. "Aimed at providing low-cost financing for clean energy and efficiency projects, the new entity offers Washington (D.C.) and other states a workable model for promoting investment in clean energy at a time of growing concern about the serious finance problems surrounding clean energy deployment."
The bill was passe
d unanimously in the State Senate and by a 138-9 margin in the State House Of Representatives clearly signifying that the Green Bank had bi-partisan support.
What exactly does that mean for people living in Connecticut? For starters, it will help lead to the development of many new clean energy and energy efficiency projects using existing government funds and private investment. This will help lead to new jobs being created during a time when any type of job growth is helpful.
Additionally, the bold steps being taken in Connecticut could possibly lead to a federal type of Green Bank in the future. As Muro and Saha stated, "Ideally, this smart experiment will succeed and other states and Washington will follow suit. After all, finding a robust and workable solution to the problem of financing the deployment of innovative, large-scale clean energy projects will be absolutely central to ensuring that the U.S. unleashes a sizable clean energy economy, instead of drifting."
Sources:
www.brookings.edu/opinions/2011/0628_green_connecticut_muro.aspx
www.cga.ct.gov/2011/BA/2011SB-01243-R01-BA.htm
www.tpmcafe.talkingpointsmemo.com/2011/07/08/connecticuts_green_bank_a_bi-partisan_model_for_th/
"A Green Bank is a quasi-governmental entity that provides low-cost financing for clean energy and energy efficiency projects through direct loans or loan guarantees," explained Alex Kragie, a Vice President for the "Coalition For Green Capital."
Mark Muro and Brookings Institute also had this to say about the new Green Bank. "Aimed at providing low-cost financing for clean energy and efficiency projects, the new entity offers Washington (D.C.) and other states a workable model for promoting investment in clean energy at a time of growing concern about the serious finance problems surrounding clean energy deployment."
The bill was passe
d unanimously in the State Senate and by a 138-9 margin in the State House Of Representatives clearly signifying that the Green Bank had bi-partisan support.What exactly does that mean for people living in Connecticut? For starters, it will help lead to the development of many new clean energy and energy efficiency projects using existing government funds and private investment. This will help lead to new jobs being created during a time when any type of job growth is helpful.
Additionally, the bold steps being taken in Connecticut could possibly lead to a federal type of Green Bank in the future. As Muro and Saha stated, "Ideally, this smart experiment will succeed and other states and Washington will follow suit. After all, finding a robust and workable solution to the problem of financing the deployment of innovative, large-scale clean energy projects will be absolutely central to ensuring that the U.S. unleashes a sizable clean energy economy, instead of drifting."
Sources:
www.brookings.edu/opinions/2011/0628_green_connecticut_muro.aspx
www.cga.ct.gov/2011/BA/2011SB-01243-R01-BA.htm
www.tpmcafe.talkingpointsmemo.com/2011/07/08/connecticuts_green_bank_a_bi-partisan_model_for_th/
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Alex Kragie: A Man In The Alternative Energy Field
There are people in this country that care very deeply about alternative energy legislation. For some, they volunteer their time to meet with politicians and do work to try and see legislation gets passed, whether it's in the federal, state or local government.For others, they devote their entire lives to that type of work. Alex Kragie is one of those people. Kragie is an employee for the Coalition For Green Capital (CFC), a non-profit organization that advocates on behalf of policies that support investment in clean energy and energy efficiency.
As part of his work, Kragie is currently working as a Project Manager of a state program in Connecticut called "Lead By Example". "Its goal is to reduce energy usage in state buildings by 10% by 2013," Kragie explained.
In addition to his role as Project Manager, he works with the Connecticut Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection and advises the nation's first Green Bank (a topic which has been elaborated on in a separate post.)
Having done work in Connecticut, Washington D.C. and Pennsylvania, Kragie has intimate knowledge on the topic of alternative energy as well as the benefits of making homes and businesses more energy efficient.
"Energy efficiency upgrades are the most economical method of improving buildings and homes," Kragie said. "Depending on the measures undertaken, the cost of a retrofit can pay itself back in very little time and be profitable to the home or building owner after that."
He added, "One of those measures is a tool called an Energy Savings Performance Contract (ESPC) which allows a builder or a homeowner to pay no upfront costs for a project being undertaken and pay back the cost through savings accrued on their energy bills."
An example of how the federal government is using ESPC's can be found here.
Though his current work is outside of Pennsylvania, Kragie has a keen understanding about the alternative energy situation going on in the Keystone State. "The extraction of natural gas through fracking is certainly the dominant issue in Pennsylvania," Kragie says.
For those who live in Pennsylvania, they likely have heard about fracking as it has been in the news for several years now and it's a topic clean energy advocates often debate about. While documentaries like Gasland talk about the environmental risks of natural gas drilling, the fact is, it still can reduce carbon emissions and as Kragie explained, "provide a bridge fuel to clean energy generation sources."
Why is it important we have "bridge" fuels you may ask? The reason is, for many areas in the country, clean energy is still more expensive than conventional sources such as coal and oil. However, as Kragie said, "costs are rapidly declining and in some areas such as the high-priced Northeast, some forms of clean energy are as cheap as conventional energy."
With a chance to help start a new domestic industry, Alex Kragie is working tirelessly throughout the Northeast to raise awareness about clean energy, and its economic and environmental benefits. The work is undoubtedly hard, but he knows the success in helping businesses and homeowners convert to alternative energy will be very rewarding. If you hear about state governments or businesses using tools such as an ESPC, you will know it's people like Alex Kragie who had a hand in it.
Sources:
www1.eere.energy.gov/femp/financing/espcs.html
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gasland
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydraulic_fracturing
Why Is Solar Energy Better Than Nuclear?
Walk around a neighborhood these days and there is a chance you will see a home or business with some sort of solar technology installed. The idea of solar energy has been around for decades and today, you are seeing companies and home owners utilize it more than ever says Dr. John Blackburn. A former Chancellor of Duke University, Blackburn currently works for a North Carolina non-profit organization called NC Warn.
The rise in popularity can be attributed to the cost of installing solar energy going down. In 2010, electricity from new solar installations became cheaper than nuclear in North Carolina for the first time. "Each and every stakeholder in North Carolina's energy sector — citizens, elected officials, solar power installers and manufacturers, and electric utilities — should recognize this watershed moment," said Blackburn.
Though Blackburn cautions that both solar and nuclear energy are still more costly than "present electricity generation" costs, it's abundantly clear that solar energy is becoming much cheaper. In addition to financial savings, Blackburn lists other advantages solar has over nuclear.
"Rooftop solar can be installed in a few days and can start producing electricity immediately," Blackburn said. Indeed, it can take up to ten years for people to wait for nuclear energy to come online. Another environmental advantage is the fact that solar energy doesn't waste water like a nuclear plant does. Billions of gallons of water are used at a nuclear plant each used in order to cool reactors.
Solar energy is also much safer. If people remember the horrific tsunami in Japan in 2011, you will recall that a nuclear plant in Fukushima had a nuclear metldown because workers were unable to keep the reactors cool and thus caused a small nuclear disaster. People of Pennsylvania who lived through the Three Mile Island nuclear crisis will also undoubtedly remember the panic that occurred in 1979.
With solar power becoming more affordable, more and more people, businesses and communities are utilizing the technology. Just this past October, Dauphin County Commissioners unveiled a solar farm that will offset up to 20% of the power usage at county facilities.
Sources:
Jim Blackburn appears courtesy of this story
www.ncwarn.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/NCW-SolarReport_final1.pdf
www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2011/10/dauphin_county_commissioners_u_2.html
www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/news/article/2010/08/solar-and-nuclear-costs-the-historic-crossover
The rise in popularity can be attributed to the cost of installing solar energy going down. In 2010, electricity from new solar installations became cheaper than nuclear in North Carolina for the first time. "Each and every stakeholder in North Carolina's energy sector — citizens, elected officials, solar power installers and manufacturers, and electric utilities — should recognize this watershed moment," said Blackburn.
Though Blackburn cautions that both solar and nuclear energy are still more costly than "present electricity generation" costs, it's abundantly clear that solar energy is becoming much cheaper. In addition to financial savings, Blackburn lists other advantages solar has over nuclear.
"Rooftop solar can be installed in a few days and can start producing electricity immediately," Blackburn said. Indeed, it can take up to ten years for people to wait for nuclear energy to come online. Another environmental advantage is the fact that solar energy doesn't waste water like a nuclear plant does. Billions of gallons of water are used at a nuclear plant each used in order to cool reactors.
Solar energy is also much safer. If people remember the horrific tsunami in Japan in 2011, you will recall that a nuclear plant in Fukushima had a nuclear metldown because workers were unable to keep the reactors cool and thus caused a small nuclear disaster. People of Pennsylvania who lived through the Three Mile Island nuclear crisis will also undoubtedly remember the panic that occurred in 1979.
With solar power becoming more affordable, more and more people, businesses and communities are utilizing the technology. Just this past October, Dauphin County Commissioners unveiled a solar farm that will offset up to 20% of the power usage at county facilities.
Sources:
Jim Blackburn appears courtesy of this story
www.ncwarn.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/NCW-SolarReport_final1.pdf
www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2011/10/dauphin_county_commissioners_u_2.html
www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/news/article/2010/08/solar-and-nuclear-costs-the-historic-crossover
Can We Succeed In Integrating Renewable Energy Into America's Infrastructure?
For many years, people have debated about whether or not implementing alternative and renewable energy into our national infrastructure would be feasible. However a report from the National Research Council may yet prove that with some work, clean energies such as wind and solar can become a major contributor in producing America's electricity.
K. John Holmes, a writer for the Journal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy summarized the Council's findings and stated that 10% of our energy could be produced by renewable sources by 2020 "if we involved a combination and coordination of policy, technology, and capital."
President Abraham Lincoln signed a charter in 1863 to form the National Academy of Sciences, a group tasked with investigating, examining, experimenting, and reporting on any subject of science. The group expanded in the 20th century which included the creation of the National Research Council.
In addition to the more popular types of renewable energy, the council took a look at additional types of energy to see if they could help contribute to achieving the 10% goal. This included biopower, the type of energy that comes from wood, landfills, tires and other agricultural waste. The panel also concluded that onshore wind turbines would be the most cost efficient.
Another interesting note from the panel is the fact their belief that "nearly, all of the costs associated with renewable electricity are in the manufacturing and installation of the equipment." Except for biomass, no alternative energy resource uses any type of fuel.
As the panel says, "in order for the United States to produce a large amount of electricity from alternative energy, there has to be money invested into new projects." Once that occurs, it would appear the sky will be the limit for alternative energy in America.
Sources:
http://jrse.aip.org/resource/1/jrsebh/v3/i4/p042701_s1?view=fulltext
http://www.nationalacademies.org/about/whoweare.html
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Pennsylvanians Have Spoken: They Want More Wind Energy
The topic of energy has been very popular in Pennsylvania this year. With abundant resources in natural gas, there has been a rush on drilling and its understandable, given the fact that Pennsylvania has been referred to as the "Saudi Arabia Of Natural Gas."
It's undeniable that Governor Tom Corbett and a fair number of Pennsylvanians fully support natural gas drilling.
However, it's also very clear that the vast majority of Pennsylvanians support the investment in other types of energy as well. In a November poll conducted by Susquehanna Polling and Research, 85% of Pennsylvanians believe it's important to support the expansion of wind farms. Just 11% of voters said they'd be less likely to support clean energy resources if it meant costing them $2 per month.
Another interesting fact is that 71% of Pennsylvanians supported the U.S. Congress passing Renewable Electricity Standards. This echos other polls such as a February 2011 Gallup Poll that said that 85% of voters wanted Congress to pass an energy bill that provides incentives for using solar and other alternative energy sources.
Sources:
www.awea.org/newsroom/pressreleases/release_111610.cfm
www.foxnews.com/politics/2010/05/17/pennsylvania-district-turns-saudi-arabia-natural-gas-ahead-tuesday-primary/
www.gallup.com/poll/145880/Alternative-Energy-Bill-Best-Among-Eight-Proposals.aspx
www.articles.mcall.com/2011-11-21/news/mc-pa-corbett-impact-fee-20111121_1_tom-corbett-impact-fee-fee-increases
It's undeniable that Governor Tom Corbett and a fair number of Pennsylvanians fully support natural gas drilling.
However, it's also very clear that the vast majority of Pennsylvanians support the investment in other types of energy as well. In a November poll conducted by Susquehanna Polling and Research, 85% of Pennsylvanians believe it's important to support the expansion of wind farms. Just 11% of voters said they'd be less likely to support clean energy resources if it meant costing them $2 per month.
Another interesting fact is that 71% of Pennsylvanians supported the U.S. Congress passing Renewable Electricity Standards. This echos other polls such as a February 2011 Gallup Poll that said that 85% of voters wanted Congress to pass an energy bill that provides incentives for using solar and other alternative energy sources.
Sources:
www.awea.org/newsroom/pressreleases/release_111610.cfm
www.foxnews.com/politics/2010/05/17/pennsylvania-district-turns-saudi-arabia-natural-gas-ahead-tuesday-primary/
www.gallup.com/poll/145880/Alternative-Energy-Bill-Best-Among-Eight-Proposals.aspx
www.articles.mcall.com/2011-11-21/news/mc-pa-corbett-impact-fee-20111121_1_tom-corbett-impact-fee-fee-increases
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Why Clean Energy Will Create Jobs AND Help The Environment: A Look At California University's College of Natural Resources 2009 Executive Summary
Whether it's on Capitol Hill in Washington, or a neighborhood gathering, a popular topic for debate is whether clean energy could create jobs in the United States. Those who support investment in alternative energy resources will argue that it will while those against often argue that the jobs will continue to come from overseas
However, if you read California University's Executive Summary of 2009, you will learn that investing in clean energy will indeed create jobs.
Written by
David Roland‐Holst and Friedrich Kahrl, the summary details the fact that clean energy investment will help create jobs in all 50 states, with a potential growth of up to nearly two million new positions.
As the authors state in their findings, "All 50 states can gain economically from
strong federal energy and climate policy, despite the diversity of their economies and
energy mixes."
The assessment done by Roland-Hols and Kahrl frequently mentions federal clean energy that was passed in the U.S. House Of Representatives called the American Clean Energy and Security Act (ACES)
The ACES bill estimated that over 78,000 jobs would have been created in Pennsylvania alone and over 198,000 in the Mid-Atlantic region. In addition to jobs being created in the U.S., the new energy would have lowered the dependence on foreign energy. As the study says, "By shifting to domestic renewable substitutes, the Western states can reduce their long term external energy dependence.
Certainly when discussing the advantages to clean energy, you'll look to how it will benefit the environment. The ACES bill would have required that electric utility companies meet 20% of their sales using alternative energy by the year 2020 and reducing greenhouse gas emissions 83% by 2050. As said in the article, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by such a large percentage would have been a "fundamental transformation of the U.S. energy system."
Though the U.S. Senate proposed a bill known as the American Power Act, it was ultimately never voted on, and no federal legislation was passed. But with over 68% of the American population supporting this type of legislation, there is still hope that we will see something similar to the ACES bill passed in the near future.
Sources:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/support-for-federal-backing-of-renewables-slips-driven-by-gop-skepticism/2011/11/10/gIQA97kX9M_story.html
http://are.berkeley.edu/~dwrh/CERES_Web/Docs/ES_DRHFK091024.pdf
However, if you read California University's Executive Summary of 2009, you will learn that investing in clean energy will indeed create jobs.
Written by
David Roland‐Holst and Friedrich Kahrl, the summary details the fact that clean energy investment will help create jobs in all 50 states, with a potential growth of up to nearly two million new positions.As the authors state in their findings, "All 50 states can gain economically from
strong federal energy and climate policy, despite the diversity of their economies and
energy mixes."
The assessment done by Roland-Hols and Kahrl frequently mentions federal clean energy that was passed in the U.S. House Of Representatives called the American Clean Energy and Security Act (ACES)
The ACES bill estimated that over 78,000 jobs would have been created in Pennsylvania alone and over 198,000 in the Mid-Atlantic region. In addition to jobs being created in the U.S., the new energy would have lowered the dependence on foreign energy. As the study says, "By shifting to domestic renewable substitutes, the Western states can reduce their long term external energy dependence.
Certainly when discussing the advantages to clean energy, you'll look to how it will benefit the environment. The ACES bill would have required that electric utility companies meet 20% of their sales using alternative energy by the year 2020 and reducing greenhouse gas emissions 83% by 2050. As said in the article, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by such a large percentage would have been a "fundamental transformation of the U.S. energy system."
Though the U.S. Senate proposed a bill known as the American Power Act, it was ultimately never voted on, and no federal legislation was passed. But with over 68% of the American population supporting this type of legislation, there is still hope that we will see something similar to the ACES bill passed in the near future.
Graph 1: Greenhouse Gas Emission
Reduction under the ACES bill.
Reduction under the ACES bill.
Sources:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/support-for-federal-backing-of-renewables-slips-driven-by-gop-skepticism/2011/11/10/gIQA97kX9M_story.html
http://are.berkeley.edu/~dwrh/CERES_Web/Docs/ES_DRHFK091024.pdf
A talk with Carlisle Borough Councilman Tim Scott On Implementing Alternative Energy Soltuions To The Borough
If you visit the campus of Dickinson College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, you will see a student body and faculty committed to sustainability. Recycle bins are everywhere, messages about the importance of sustainability are all over bulletin boards, and the school hosts a spring fair each year allowing alternative energy and environmental companies and organizations to come to the campus and speak to students and citizens of the town.
For sure, Dickinson College is fully committed to alternative energy and the benefits that come from it. But what is even better news is the Borough of Carlisle, led by Borough Councilman Tim Scott, is showing they're committed as well. A new project they are undertaking only further proves it.
Financed by bonds, loans and a potential grant from the
Commonwealth Finance Agency, the Borough Council has signed off on a solar array project that will use solar panels to power their wastewater facility.
A proponent for clean energy, Tim Scott believes this project will show people the benefits of converting to new types of energy and why it makes sense.
"From my perspective, it makes sense because of the savings in electricity costs that can be passed on to the rate payers," said Scott. "In the case of this wastewater project, not only will our customers in the Borough receive these savings, but in the townships we provide as well."
This project is just one example about the potential jobs that could be created locally from alternative energy projects. "One would hope this (would create jobs)," said Scott. "Our solar array project is a job creator and that's what it's all about these days."
The wastewater project is the second major alternative energy initiative seen recently in the Borough. Carlisle Area School District recently converted to solar energy and today has the biggest solar array for a public school in Pennsylvania.
While the wastewater project was a big step in the town's conversion to alternative energy, it was by no means their last. As Tim Scott explained, they have a non-voting student ambassador on the council from Dickinson College that is assisting in the commitment to sustainability. "The Student Ambassador and I announced a joint project this week in which we will present Council with several sustainability options that the Borough and the college can work on together." Scott said.
With these ongoing efforts, the future looks promising for Carlisle to be a great example to the region about how to utilize alternative energy. Tim Scott's work has been an instrumental part to the current success and his work will still be a value to the community moving forward.
For Scott, he believes there are many possibilities for Carlisle's alternative energy development in the next ten years. "I would like to see all our major operations (public works building, parks and recreation center, water plant) getting at least 51% of their energy needs from a renewable source, whether it be solar, wind or hydro," said Scott. "This would have a tremendous positive effect on the Borough's checkbook and ultimately save tax-payer dollars."
Sources:
www.henkels.com/NEWSDESK/Pages/Carlisle%20Area%20School%20District%27s%20Commitment%20to%20Renewable%20Energy.aspx
www.dickinson.edu/about/sustainability/content/Green-Campus.aspx
For sure, Dickinson College is fully committed to alternative energy and the benefits that come from it. But what is even better news is the Borough of Carlisle, led by Borough Councilman Tim Scott, is showing they're committed as well. A new project they are undertaking only further proves it.
Financed by bonds, loans and a potential grant from the
Commonwealth Finance Agency, the Borough Council has signed off on a solar array project that will use solar panels to power their wastewater facility.A proponent for clean energy, Tim Scott believes this project will show people the benefits of converting to new types of energy and why it makes sense.
"From my perspective, it makes sense because of the savings in electricity costs that can be passed on to the rate payers," said Scott. "In the case of this wastewater project, not only will our customers in the Borough receive these savings, but in the townships we provide as well."
This project is just one example about the potential jobs that could be created locally from alternative energy projects. "One would hope this (would create jobs)," said Scott. "Our solar array project is a job creator and that's what it's all about these days."
The wastewater project is the second major alternative energy initiative seen recently in the Borough. Carlisle Area School District recently converted to solar energy and today has the biggest solar array for a public school in Pennsylvania.
While the wastewater project was a big step in the town's conversion to alternative energy, it was by no means their last. As Tim Scott explained, they have a non-voting student ambassador on the council from Dickinson College that is assisting in the commitment to sustainability. "The Student Ambassador and I announced a joint project this week in which we will present Council with several sustainability options that the Borough and the college can work on together." Scott said.
With these ongoing efforts, the future looks promising for Carlisle to be a great example to the region about how to utilize alternative energy. Tim Scott's work has been an instrumental part to the current success and his work will still be a value to the community moving forward.
For Scott, he believes there are many possibilities for Carlisle's alternative energy development in the next ten years. "I would like to see all our major operations (public works building, parks and recreation center, water plant) getting at least 51% of their energy needs from a renewable source, whether it be solar, wind or hydro," said Scott. "This would have a tremendous positive effect on the Borough's checkbook and ultimately save tax-payer dollars."
Sources:
www.henkels.com/NEWSDESK/Pages/Carlisle%20Area%20School%20District%27s%20Commitment%20to%20Renewable%20Energy.aspx
www.dickinson.edu/about/sustainability/content/Green-Campus.aspx
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Alternative Energy Right At Your Back Door?
In recent years, people have seen commercials for all types of energy. There are, of course, the ads we have seen for years from the big oil companies like Exxon, BP, and Chevron. Recently, in Pennsylvania, we've also begun to see a fair share of advertisements trying to convince the viewer about the why there are advantages in natural gas use.
Another group of ads that have started to make their way on television recently is local alternative energy companies. It's an important step in the emergence of this type of clean energy, especially in Pennsylvania.
What I found in my travels when I worked for a non-profit organization focusing on educating people about alternative energy was that many constituents did not even know there were alternative energy companies in or near their home town. This was certainly the case in the Harrisburg region. In fact, a friend of mine recently questioned why there were no companies around the capital city.
The fact is, there are a host of companies just miles away from Harrisburg that provide homeowners and businesses the opportunity to invest in alternative energy. Whether it's solar, wind or geothermal, all are available. Here is a quick summary of ten companies less than 30 miles from the city of Harrisburg.
Bright Eye Solar, LLC
Address: 733 Chickies Drive, Columbia, PA 17512
Phone: (717) 207-8449
Website: www.brighteyesolar.com
Specializes In: Solar
Energy Systems and Installation, Inc.
Address: 451 Jonestown Road, Jonestown, PA 17038
Phone:(717) 861-4012
Website: www.esipowercorp.com
Specializes In: Solar
East Coast Solar Inc
Address: 2122 Walnut Bottom Road, Carlisle, PA 17013
Phone: (717) 609-2681 
Website: www.eastcoastsolarsystems.com
Specializes In: Solar Energy
Eichelbergers Energy Company, LLC
Address: 6427 Carlisle Pike, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050
Phone: (717) 458-0928
Website: www.eichelbergers.com
Specializes In: Solar and Geothermal
I Need Solar
Address: 4913 Gettysburg Road, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
Phone:(717) 975-9108
Website: www.ineedsolar.com
Specializes In: Solar
Maximus Solar
Address: 453 Lincoln Street, Carlisle, PA 17013
Phone:(71 7) 961-50 09
Website: www.maximussolar.com
Specializes In: Solar Energy
Mid-Atlantic Geothermal
Phone: (717) 755-0015
Website: www.midatlanticgeothermal.com
Specializes In: Geothermal
Secco Home Services
Address: 1111 Primrose Avenue, Camp Hill, PA 17011 Phone: (717) 737-8100
Website: www.seccohome.com
Sunlion Energy Systems Inc.
Address: 2330 Dairy Road, Lancaster, PA 17601
Phone: (717) 898-8700
Website: www.sunlionenergysystems.com
Specializes In: Wind and Solar
Address: 255 Butler Avenue, Lancaster, PA 1760
Phone:(717) 808-4693
Website: pawindandsolar.com
Specializes In: Wind and Solar
Whether you're looking to install geothermal at your home, put solar panels on the roof of your business, or put up a wind turbine at your farm, these companies will help provide you with whatever service you need.
Another group of ads that have started to make their way on television recently is local alternative energy companies. It's an important step in the emergence of this type of clean energy, especially in Pennsylvania.
What I found in my travels when I worked for a non-profit organization focusing on educating people about alternative energy was that many constituents did not even know there were alternative energy companies in or near their home town. This was certainly the case in the Harrisburg region. In fact, a friend of mine recently questioned why there were no companies around the capital city.
The fact is, there are a host of companies just miles away from Harrisburg that provide homeowners and businesses the opportunity to invest in alternative energy. Whether it's solar, wind or geothermal, all are available. Here is a quick summary of ten companies less than 30 miles from the city of Harrisburg.
Bright Eye Solar, LLC
Address: 733 Chickies Drive, Columbia, PA 17512
Phone: (717) 207-8449
Website: www.brighteyesolar.com
Specializes In: Solar
Energy Systems and Installation, Inc.
Address: 451 Jonestown Road, Jonestown, PA 17038
Phone:
Website: www.esipowercorp.com
Specializes In: Solar
East Coast Solar Inc
Address: 2122 Walnut Bottom Road, Carlisle, PA 17013
Phone:
Website: www.eastcoastsolarsystems.com
Specializes In: Solar Energy
Eichelbergers Energy Company, LLC
Address: 6427 Carlisle Pike, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050
Website: www.eichelbergers.com
Specializes In: Solar and Geothermal
Phone:
Website: www.ineedsolar.com
Specializes In: Solar
Maximus Solar
Address: 453 Lincoln Street, Carlisle, PA 17013
Phone:
Website: www.maximussolar.com
Specializes In: Solar Energy
Mid-Atlantic Geothermal
Phone: (717) 755-0015
Website: www.midatlanticgeothermal.com
Specializes In: Geothermal
Secco Home Services
Address: 1111 Primrose Avenue, Camp Hill, PA 17011
Website: www.seccohome.com
Sunlion Energy Systems Inc. Address: 2330 Dairy Road, Lancaster, PA 17601
Website: www.sunlionenergysystems.com
Specializes In: Wind and Solar
Address: 255 Butler Avenue, Lancaster, PA 1760
Phone:
Website: pawindandsolar.com
Specializes In: Wind and Solar
Whether you're looking to install geothermal at your home, put solar panels on the roof of your business, or put up a wind turbine at your farm, these companies will help provide you with whatever service you need.
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