Alternative Energy Sources and How it works

Alternative Energy Sources and How it works.

Hometown History: Solar energy pioneer has city ties

He developed a method of using flat-plate collectors that heated hundreds of gallons of water, and then kept the water warm at night by storing it in an insulated basin. Willsie then ran tubes into the heated water, and sent sulfur dioxide through the tubes, transforming it into a high-pressure vapor, which operated the engine. Essentially, Willsie became the first to harness solar energy for use when the sun wasn’t out.

Heat we emit could warm the Earth

Cowern and Ahn’s argument is logical, says Jonathan Gregory, a climate expert at the University of Reading, UK. “Human energy dissipation is currently small compared with other factors, but you can imagine it becoming much bigger.” However, he adds that energy production would need to grow significantly for the effect to kick in. “It’s fair to ask if we could ever produce so much power,” he says.

Los Angeles launches clean-tech website

“Cleantech is the biggest opportunity of the 21st century, and I am committed to making Los Angeles a global clean tech capital,” said Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa.

“Our long-term future depends on our ability to capitalize on the growing opportunities of the new green economy and this site will bring together our partners under one virtual roof.”

Energy Trust helps rural businesses compete for USDA energy grants for solar energy systems

“There’s a bright future for solar energy in Oregon’s rural areas, and we’re pleased to be able to help Oregon farmers, ranchers and other rural small businesses apply for USDA dollars to help pay for solar projects,” says Betsy Kauffman, renewable power outreach manager, Energy Trust. “We’re expanding our support for interested applicants based on the success of past, smaller efforts.”