http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/ Copyright Elsevier Ltd Intuitiv Ltd (www.intuitiv.net) Fri, 18 May 2012 17:12:51 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/_common/img/template/ref-usa/site-logo.gif http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/25551/full-version-us-wind-on-the-brink/ America's wind industry is simultaneously on course for a record-breaking year of installations and on the brink of catastrophe – and a lot has to do with the boom and bust of the Production Tax Credit (PTC). Sat, 28 Apr 2012 18:57:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/25551/full-version-us-wind-on-the-brink/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/24466/comment-is-the-end-of-renewables-nigh-at-fukushima-anniversary/ In the run-up to the 11 March anniversary of the Fukushima reactor meltdown, the steady drip of anti renewables articles in the mainstream media was becoming a torrent as the nuclear lobby cranked up its public relations machine. And they're taking aim at European feed-in tariffs, no doubt because of their success. Germany is particularly in their cross-hairs because of its massive development of renewable energy over the past two decades and Germany's plan to close all its reactors for good. Mon, 12 Mar 2012 13:17:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/24466/comment-is-the-end-of-renewables-nigh-at-fukushima-anniversary/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/19289/can-small-wind-certification-buoy-u-s-consumer-confidence/ Spurred by eligibility criteria to access a growing number of financial incentives the small wind industry is making solid headway toward consistent ratings, reliable performance estimates, and demonstrated compliance with safety standards. Tue, 28 Feb 2012 09:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/19289/can-small-wind-certification-buoy-u-s-consumer-confidence/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/19155/wind-power-200-bc-to-2010/ Wind devices date all the way back to vertical axis wind mills from the Persian-Afghanistan borders around 200 BC, to today’s efforts to develop 10 MW wind turbines... Wed, 18 Jan 2012 09:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/19155/wind-power-200-bc-to-2010/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/22873/wind-power-poised-for-a-busy-year-five-trends-to-watch-in-2012/ A big year is in store for the U.S. wind power industry in 2012, both in the policy arena and out in the field... Fri, 30 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/22873/wind-power-poised-for-a-busy-year-five-trends-to-watch-in-2012/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/19291/the-biofuel-generation-gap/ Turning from 1st generation biofuels produced from food crops to 2nd generation biofuels produced from ligno-cellulosic feedstocks has been praised by many, but 2nd generation has a long way to go to reach full commercialization. Mon, 18 Jul 2011 15:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/19291/the-biofuel-generation-gap/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/19250/the-biggest-challenge-for-solar-pv/ In the final installation on the Department of Energy’s (DoE) SunShot-US$1/W program, the biggest challenge of them all for solar PV, the balance of system (BOS), is addressed. Thu, 14 Jul 2011 14:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/19250/the-biggest-challenge-for-solar-pv/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/19248/google-s-oklahoma-windfall/ As Google announces its power purchase agreement for the output of an Oklahoma wind farm, Oklahoma’s Secretary of Energy, Mike Ming, tells Renewable Energy Focus U.S. why Oklahoma is such a good place for renewable energy developments. Wed, 13 Jul 2011 14:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/19248/google-s-oklahoma-windfall/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/19219/california-the-green-state/ By signing SB X 1-2 into law, Governor Jerry Brown has marked a new milestone in California’s electricity history, turning the state into a deeper shade of green. Tue, 12 Jul 2011 14:03:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/19219/california-the-green-state/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/19217/managing-environmental-challenges-for-renewable-energy-projects/ Although renewable energy is usually seen as benefiting the environment, project developers must plan ahead to manage risks and environmental challenges. Mon, 11 Jul 2011 14:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/19217/managing-environmental-challenges-for-renewable-energy-projects/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/19247/comment-californias-solar-program-costs-more-than-german-feed-in-tariffs/ Newly installed solar photovoltaic (solar PV) projects in Californian were paid an average of approximately US$0.34/kWh last year, according to a privately-commissioned study, substantially more than Germans paid. Thu, 07 Jul 2011 17:35:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/19247/comment-californias-solar-program-costs-more-than-german-feed-in-tariffs/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/19127/solar-in-the-us-us-1-w-and-sunshot/ With its SunShot program, the Department of Energy (DoE) has greatly expanded the reach past the one goal of a delivered US$1/W of solar power by 2017. Wed, 06 Jul 2011 14:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/19127/solar-in-the-us-us-1-w-and-sunshot/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/19124/california-dreaming-for-renewable-energy/ California reached a landmark achievement last year by hitting a keystone renewable energy target just before the Holidays, raising hopes of a prosperous new year for investors, project developers and manufacturers. Tue, 05 Jul 2011 14:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/19124/california-dreaming-for-renewable-energy/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/19154/offshore-wind-force/ Offshore wind could contribute significantly to the world’s energy demand, according to wind turbine company Gamesa, which is planning an offshore wind turbine center in Virginia. Mon, 04 Jul 2011 14:39:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/19154/offshore-wind-force/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/19032/us-renewable-energy-industry-on-the-brink/ Developers, investors and clean energy companies are on tenterhooks over the future of the American renewable industry as Republican politicians train their sights on environmental legislation in the US. Fri, 01 Jul 2011 14:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/19032/us-renewable-energy-industry-on-the-brink/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/19031/most-people-don-t-understand-biomass/ Bioenergy has the potential to provide renewable heat, electricity and transport fuel the world over, but controversy has dogged the technology’s development, especially in recent times. So what is the industry doing to redress this? Sarah Robertson talks to international bioenergy expert Ralph Sims. Thu, 30 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/19031/most-people-don-t-understand-biomass/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/18886/comment-fight-brewing-over-off-grid-energy-storage/ Battery, flywheel, ultracapacitor and fuel cell developers need to act now if they wish to tap the $4B market for off-grid applications, says Lux Research. Fri, 24 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/18886/comment-fight-brewing-over-off-grid-energy-storage/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/18792/earth-provides-renewable-geothermal-power-but-is-the-world-catching-on/ What is geothermal energy? Is it renewable and reliable? Is it aff ordable, and is it worth it? These are some of the questions on the minds of the young making preliminary career choices, cities joining the race to meet state renewable standards, and energy companies looking to broaden their portfolios. Tue, 21 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/18792/earth-provides-renewable-geothermal-power-but-is-the-world-catching-on/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/18714/solar-pv-csp-and-cpv-smoke-and-mirrors/ The argument about who wins – PV, CSP, or CPV – is currently all the rage. But is this just an unnecessary distraction? Fri, 17 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/18714/solar-pv-csp-and-cpv-smoke-and-mirrors/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/18664/doe-goal-dollar-per-watt-installed-for-solar-pv-by-2017/ One of the major challenges facing the solar photovoltaic (PV) research community is to bring costs down. In this first feature in a series following the progress of DoE’s dollar-per-watt program, Joyce Laird sets the stage. Thu, 16 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/18664/doe-goal-dollar-per-watt-installed-for-solar-pv-by-2017/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/18662/us-wind-lacks-long-term-policy/ The US lack of long-term policies for wind power appears to be the biggest obstacle to the nation’s wind market if we are to believe some of the top wind turbine manufacturers active in the US. Wed, 15 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/18662/us-wind-lacks-long-term-policy/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/18627/comment-canc-n-a-modest-success/ With the backdrop of the COP15 failure in Copenhagen, did COP16 in Cancún fare any better? Expectations going into COP16 in Cancún, Mexico, were extremely low, with few believing there would be a significant outcome. Tue, 14 Jun 2011 14:10:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/18627/comment-canc-n-a-modest-success/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/18602/us-china-wind-power-spat/ The US and China could fall out over China’s domestic wind turbine market as the US files a complaint with the WTO due to frustrations with Chinese subsidies and non-transparency. Mon, 13 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/18602/us-china-wind-power-spat/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/18511/csp-on-a-high-or-in-a-trough/ Solar power has been around for three decades, so why aren’t we seeing more concentrating solar power (CSP) developed? Andy Skumanich, Founder and CEO of SolarVision Co explores past and present challenges for solar CSP. Fri, 10 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/18511/csp-on-a-high-or-in-a-trough/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/18509/solar-pv-innovations-not-quite-sci-fi-anymore/ There is a lot going on at the solar photovoltaics (PV) research level. While all projects discussed below are at varying stages of lab-level development, with the speed PV is moving at today, some, or all, of these technologies may break into the commercial sector faster than even the scientists working on them imagine. Thu, 09 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/18509/solar-pv-innovations-not-quite-sci-fi-anymore/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/18468/wave-and-tidal-in-the-us-from-minnow-to-mighty-beast/ There are few contexts in which the United States can be described as a minnow, but in terms of exploiting wave and tidal energy it is – for the moment. George Marsh looks at the sector as it tries to establish a foothold in the states. Wed, 08 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/18468/wave-and-tidal-in-the-us-from-minnow-to-mighty-beast/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/18437/build-your-own-turbine-the-amsc-business-model/ A company living off licensing its wind turbine design to manufacturers – is that a viable business plan? Timothy D. Poor explains AMSC’s business model to Renewable Energy Focus U.S.’s Kari Williamson. Tue, 07 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/18437/build-your-own-turbine-the-amsc-business-model/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/18397/wind-going-up-at-least-until-2012/ Despite the toll of the financial crisis and lower wholesale electricity prices, the US wind power industry is expected to continue growing until 2012, but after that the future is uncertain, according to a report from Berkeley Lab. Mon, 06 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/18397/wind-going-up-at-least-until-2012/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/18366/have-you-sewn-up-inventors-ip-rights/ The renewable energy industry is one of innovation, but who does your invention really belong to at the end of the day? Carey C. Jordan, Partner at law firm McDermott Will & Emergy looks at the danger of unclear intellectual property assignment. Fri, 03 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/18366/have-you-sewn-up-inventors-ip-rights/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/18324/the-us-mid-term-election-and-renewable-energy/ At first impression, it is difficult not to conclude that the Democrats’ electoral “shellacking,” as President Barack Obama characterized it following the November mid-term election, will signal the death kneel for American progress on renewable energy. Don C. Smith assesses the outcome. Thu, 02 Jun 2011 14:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/18324/the-us-mid-term-election-and-renewable-energy/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/17823/utilities-ramp-up-their-renewables-portfolios/ Like many of its counterparts in the USA, Arizona Public Service Company (APS) is increasing the amount of renewables generation within its portfolio. We look at how the company is making efforts to source cleaner energy and give customers incentives to choose renewables. Tue, 10 May 2011 14:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/17823/utilities-ramp-up-their-renewables-portfolios/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/17821/district-energy-past-present-and-future/ District heating is not a new concept, but it is still not as widely used as it could be. Kevin Hagerty at Veolia Energy North America explores the different options for district heating, hot water and cooling. Fri, 06 May 2011 18:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/17821/district-energy-past-present-and-future/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/17481/energy-storage-a-growing-reality-for-the-grid/ A series of energy storage projects over the last five years demonstrate the potential value streams available from distributed storage solutions. Bradford P. Roberts at S&C examines the various options available. Thu, 28 Apr 2011 15:34:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/17481/energy-storage-a-growing-reality-for-the-grid/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/17477/deep-drilling-for-geothermal-good-economic-sense/ Deep drilling to exploit geothermal energy involves risks related to engineering, financing and non-discovery. Feasibility studies conducted at an early stage of the project point the way to successful exploitation of geothermal energy. The key task of these studies lies in the systematic disclosure of the risks and opportunities involved in a project, explain Hubert Sacher and René Schiemann of TÜV SÜD Industrie Service. Wed, 27 Apr 2011 15:33:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/17477/deep-drilling-for-geothermal-good-economic-sense/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/17471/colleges-turn-waste-into-useful-products/ Lyn Corum profiles a number of innovative projects that are at the heart of sustainable development, including a subtropical rain forest that thrives on CO2 and waste heat on a college campus… Tue, 26 Apr 2011 15:36:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/17471/colleges-turn-waste-into-useful-products/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/17152/wired-for-solar/ How does modern technology promote better solar installations? Joyce Laird takes a look at some of the companies active in this area of the PV installation value chain. Wed, 13 Apr 2011 14:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/17152/wired-for-solar/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/17145/great-lakes-great-wind/ Canadian Trillium Power’s offshore wind projects for the Great Lakes are great indeed – and could even beat Cape Wind to become North America’s first offshore wind project. Renewable Energy Focus U.S.’ Kari Williamson talks to Trillium Power CEO John Kourtoff. Mon, 11 Apr 2011 14:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/17145/great-lakes-great-wind/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/17139/a-higher-height-data-wakeup-call-measuring-the-wind/ In the wind power industry, reaching higher isn’t just a nice metaphor for achievement. It’s the industry’s future. The reach for steady, reliable, low-shear wind at hub heights of 80 m and above is the reach for success in the marketplace. Without that steadiness and reliability, wind power will continue to run second to more dependable – if mortally flawed – fossil fuels. Wed, 06 Apr 2011 18:27:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/17139/a-higher-height-data-wakeup-call-measuring-the-wind/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/16884/comment-gas-report-misses-wind-s-contribution-to-grid-reliability/ A gas industry report misunderstands US power system and misses wind’s contribution to US electrical grid reliability, says the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA). Fri, 25 Mar 2011 17:17:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/16884/comment-gas-report-misses-wind-s-contribution-to-grid-reliability/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/15489/the-future-of-blade-repair/ Damage to wind turbine blades can significantly lower the turbine’s performance. On site repair of wind turbine blades has traditionally been time consuming and of variable quality. David Cripps, Global Account Manager, Gurit Wind Energy, describes a new blade repair system which is clean, fast and can be used in a wider temperature range. Tue, 01 Feb 2011 12:45:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/15489/the-future-of-blade-repair/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/15253/will-congress-deliver-u-s-renewable-energy-jobs/ American jobs will stay a lighter shade of green unless Congress acts, say business leaders, environmentalists and labor unions. Fri, 21 Jan 2011 14:15:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/15253/will-congress-deliver-u-s-renewable-energy-jobs/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/15244/smart-energy-systems-transitioning-renewables-onto-the-grid/ Modern society is dependent on flexible electrical energy, available on demand and at an affordable cost. Most of our electrical energy is produced by converting the carbon stored in coal or natural gas into heat energy and then via a turbine into mechanical energy. But as we increase the amount of less-dispatchable renewable energy into our electrical systems we have to be much smarter about the way we use energy. Wed, 19 Jan 2011 14:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/15244/smart-energy-systems-transitioning-renewables-onto-the-grid/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/14933/comment-little-interest-in-hawaii-feed-in-tariff-program-says-report/ Expected interest in Hawaii's feed-in tariff program has not materialized says a report by the program's independent observer. Thu, 06 Jan 2011 14:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/14933/comment-little-interest-in-hawaii-feed-in-tariff-program-says-report/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/14895/comment-new-california-governor-jerry-brown-calls-for-feed-in-tariffs-to-develop-distributed-generation/ In an undated posting on Governor Jerry Brown's campaign website, the then candidate called for building 12 GW of distributed generation out of 20 GW of new renewable generation. Tue, 04 Jan 2011 17:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/14895/comment-new-california-governor-jerry-brown-calls-for-feed-in-tariffs-to-develop-distributed-generation/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/14902/awea-2010-in-brief/ So how did 2010 play out for the U.S. wind industry? The American Wind Energy Association has produced its highs, and lows. Tue, 04 Jan 2011 16:22:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/14902/awea-2010-in-brief/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/14135/a-fresh-boost-for-offshore-wind-in-the-usa/ The US Secretary of the Interior has finally approved the Cape Wind offshore plan to build 130 wind turbines on the country’s east coast. But does this wind farm, which has battled on in the face of strong opposition, really herald a new era for wind power in the US? Steve Sawyer of the Global Wind Energy Council reports. Mon, 22 Nov 2010 16:54:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/14135/a-fresh-boost-for-offshore-wind-in-the-usa/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/13430/comment-federal-regulator-blasts-open-door-to-differentiated-feed-in-tariffs-in-usa/ In a ruling 21 October 2010, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) effectively cleared the way for multi-tiered feed-in tariffs for various renewable energy technologies, like the programs found in Ontario, Canada and across Europe. FERC's ruling ‘clarified’ an earlier decision that had roiled proposed feed-in tariff policies at the state level in the USA. Mon, 25 Oct 2010 15:42:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/13430/comment-federal-regulator-blasts-open-door-to-differentiated-feed-in-tariffs-in-usa/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/13282/obituary-of-hermann-scheer-the-passing-of-a-pioneer/ This week saw the very sad death of Dr Hermann Scheer, in many ways the father figure of German renewable energy, and a hugely influential figure worldwide. He was a fighter who seemed to relish his battles, and an inspirational, irreplaceable character. Mon, 18 Oct 2010 20:37:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/13282/obituary-of-hermann-scheer-the-passing-of-a-pioneer/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/12509/us-buys-into-the-power-of-geothermal/ Geothermal capacity has risen in the USA and looks set to keep growing. Internal investment, excellent national resources and a century of experience are likely to give it even more of an edge in the future, writes Leslie Blodgett of the Geothermal Energy Association. Tue, 21 Sep 2010 14:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/12509/us-buys-into-the-power-of-geothermal/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/12291/lightning-prediction-systems-boost-wind-turbine-safety/ Storms and lightning strikes are a significant safety risk for wind farm workers. Don Leick examines the guidelines and best practice used by top wind power companies to mitigate the risk to their employees. Wed, 08 Sep 2010 13:51:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/12291/lightning-prediction-systems-boost-wind-turbine-safety/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/11971/capturing-the-state-benefits-of-pv/ The US has strong natural solar resources but PV is finding it difficult to compete with wind for state benefits. Charles Kubert examines the incentives available to help businesses and individuals use renewable energy, and looks at how t hey can be improved. Tue, 24 Aug 2010 18:36:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/11971/capturing-the-state-benefits-of-pv/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/11753/us-regulations-struggle-to-keep-pace-with-solar-boom/ The US solar industry is in good health with businesses and householders clamoring to install new systems. But, writes Joyce Laird, tighter national and state regulation is essential to protect customers from inefficient and potentially dangerous installations. Thu, 19 Aug 2010 16:36:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/11753/us-regulations-struggle-to-keep-pace-with-solar-boom/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/11671/pv-innovations-solar-thin-film-technology-update/ Joyce Laird examines the latest technology developments in CIGS thin-film solar cells, and picks out the key new players in the industry on both sides of the Atlantic. Mon, 16 Aug 2010 15:45:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/11671/pv-innovations-solar-thin-film-technology-update/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/11626/nrel-issues-massive-feed-in-tariff-design-guide-for-usa/ "Feed-in tariffs (FITs) are the most widely used renewable energy policy in the world" says a massive report by a team of researchers at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). Tue, 10 Aug 2010 13:12:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/11626/nrel-issues-massive-feed-in-tariff-design-guide-for-usa/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/11514/the-electrification-of-transportation-continues-says-ey-report/ According to Ernst & Young, the second quarter of 2010 saw the highest level of venture funding for cleantech since Q3 2008, and was marked by strong financing activity in the automotive industry. Thu, 05 Aug 2010 10:28:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/11514/the-electrification-of-transportation-continues-says-ey-report/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/11493/berkeley-lab-s-battery-team-looks-beyond-vehicles-to-the-electric-grid/ A proposed flow battery for grid-scale storage gets US$1.6 million from ARPA-E. Wed, 04 Aug 2010 14:55:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/11493/berkeley-lab-s-battery-team-looks-beyond-vehicles-to-the-electric-grid/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/10886/labc-proposes-los-angeles-solar-feed-in-tariffs/ The Los Angeles Business Council (LABC) has released a report calling for a modest solar photovoltaic (PV) feed-in tariff program in the City of Angels. Mon, 12 Jul 2010 16:33:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/10886/labc-proposes-los-angeles-solar-feed-in-tariffs/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/9618/economic-development-in-the-clean-energy-age-south-carolina/ There are significant challenges in the global battle for clean energy leadership, and more investment is needed in the discovery, development, and deployment of clean energy technologies. To prosper, regions need sound economic development strategies geared towards aggressively creating, nurturing, and embracing clean technology. This article looks at what South Carolina is doing to capitalize on a revolution in clean energy technologies. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 15:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/9618/economic-development-in-the-clean-energy-age-south-carolina/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/9053/green-construction-and-leed-certification/ Louis R. Ross, Director of Research and Development at Interplastic Corporation, explains how composites made with resins that contain rapidly renewable and post-consumer recycled components contribute to LEED certification. Wed, 05 May 2010 15:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/9053/green-construction-and-leed-certification/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/9119/interview-xcel-energy/ Don C. Smith recently spoke with Frank Prager, Xcel’s Vice President for Environmental Policy, about how the company views the strategic importance of integrating more renewable energy. Thu, 29 Apr 2010 17:53:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/9119/interview-xcel-energy/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/8951/renewable-energy-can-the-usa-lead-the-pack-now/ The USA is seeing a shift in attitudes to renewable energy at Federal level. Bush-era oil-dominated policies are giving way to positive encouragement of sustainable energy. But, to what extent can the US capitalize on the ensuing manufacturing opportunities, enhanced by recession-induced stimulus funding? George Marsh reports. Thu, 22 Apr 2010 17:38:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/8951/renewable-energy-can-the-usa-lead-the-pack-now/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/8661/innovations-in-pv-installation-technology/ Part 1: Cell manufacturers continue to drive down the cost of manufacturing and boost efficiency of their products. But it’s for nothing if installation costs and peripheral devices that harvest usable energy from the cells negate the manufacturing cost savings, and add to the price for the end user. Joyce Laird looks at what is being done on the user end to move PV closer to a universal reality – one that meets all demands at a reasonable cost. Mon, 12 Apr 2010 16:23:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/8661/innovations-in-pv-installation-technology/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/8610/pv-in-2010-clouds-on-the-horizon/ 2010 was predicted by many to be the year that solar PV recovered some of the ground lost over the past 18 months after the industry’s well-documented problems. So how are things likely to play out? Thu, 08 Apr 2010 15:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/8610/pv-in-2010-clouds-on-the-horizon/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/7355/pv-innovations-on-the-leading-edge-for-2010/ There are many materials, techniques and technologies ready to announce their arrival on the solar PV scene. All will stretch the solar PV focus in some way. Some are very new and far-reaching, while others are focused on addressing immediate issues. But all are ready to be implemented within the next few months. Joyce Laird rounds up the ones to watch. Tue, 16 Feb 2010 15:38:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/7355/pv-innovations-on-the-leading-edge-for-2010/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/7211/comment-us-feed-in-tariffs-legal-if-certain-conditions-met/ The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has issued a long-awaited legal analysis of how US states could implement feed-in tariffs and still comply with federal law. Paul Gipe reports… Mon, 15 Feb 2010 16:38:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/7211/comment-us-feed-in-tariffs-legal-if-certain-conditions-met/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/7205/biomass-fuelling-renewable-connections/ As issues of carbon mitigation and climate change take centre stage, interest in energy production from sustainable biomass is increasing. Jill Stuckley at the Georgia Center of Innovation for Energy reports… Wed, 10 Feb 2010 16:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/7205/biomass-fuelling-renewable-connections/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/6926/spi2009-roadmap-for-solar-s-rapid-growth-in-us/ Rhone Resch, President and CEO of the US Solar Energy Industries Association discussed the past 18 months of hard work, as well as the SEIA’s strategic priorities, with Lyn Corum at last year’s Solar Power International in Anaheim, California. Mon, 01 Feb 2010 16:24:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/6926/spi2009-roadmap-for-solar-s-rapid-growth-in-us/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/6723/comment-banking-on-europes-offshore-wind-industry/ The offshore wind industry has already garnered government support and is increasingly piquing the interest of the private sector thanks to its ability to contribute significantly to the European renewable energy targets of 2020. As installed capacity continues to grow, and market share increases, the banking sector will continue to become progressively more involved in this industry. Mon, 25 Jan 2010 12:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/6723/comment-banking-on-europes-offshore-wind-industry/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/6672/comment-indiana-introduces-renewable-energy-feed-in-tariff-bill/ Representative Matt Pierce (D-61st, Bloomington) introduced AB 1190 into the Indiana General Assembly January 7, 2010. The bill is the first comprehensive proposal for a system of feed-in tariffs for renewable energy in the current legislative sessions that have begun in states across the US. Fri, 22 Jan 2010 10:26:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/6672/comment-indiana-introduces-renewable-energy-feed-in-tariff-bill/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/6578/pv-innovations-front-and-back-end-savings/ Cost savings and power enhancement are not just for module and panel manufacturers. Materials and services, and the process and installation also add to the cost per watt. Joyce Laird looks at how the PV industry is cutting costs through innovation. Tue, 19 Jan 2010 15:46:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/6578/pv-innovations-front-and-back-end-savings/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/6534/usgbc-leeds-the-way-in-green-build/ The future of green building is blue sky and beyond if the numbers from the US Green Building Council (USGBC) continue to hold true. It released its first leadership in energy and environmental design (LEED) third-party certification tool for commercial buildings in the year 2000, and already there are over 6,900 LEED certifications in the US alone. Lyn Corum spoke to David Gottfried, founder of the USGBC and the World Green Building Council. Mon, 18 Jan 2010 16:35:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/6534/usgbc-leeds-the-way-in-green-build/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/6448/creating-demand-how-to-market-solar/ Can ‘solar’ become as familiar to us consumers as Coca-Cola or McDonald’s? Clean Energy Group’s Mark Sinclair explores how to market the solar concept. Fri, 15 Jan 2010 11:21:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/6448/creating-demand-how-to-market-solar/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/6409/the-emerging-us-solar-market/ It’s the age old question – which came first, the chicken or the egg? In the case of solar, which will come first, the market or the industry? Paula Mints looks at the emerging US solar market with its obstacles and opportunities. Thu, 14 Jan 2010 11:44:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/6409/the-emerging-us-solar-market/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/6358/where-are-the-dollars-coming-from-federal-investment-in-solar-power/ Federal investment in solar power comes in grants, tax breaks and loan guarantees, but which is which and what do they do? ACORE’s Michael Eckhart and Samantha Jacoby examine current federal incentives for solar power in the USA. Tue, 12 Jan 2010 11:49:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/6358/where-are-the-dollars-coming-from-federal-investment-in-solar-power/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/3325/us-vineyard-uses-space-saving-floatovoltaics/ In the USA, Sharp corp. has provided solar modules and panels for an intriguing “Floatovoltaics” project. Fri, 01 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/3325/us-vineyard-uses-space-saving-floatovoltaics/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/3331/wirec-reflects-the-winds-of-change-for-renewable-energy-in-the-usa/ As US President George W. Bush and his motorcade disappear into the sunset after dropping into WIREC, Global Wind Energy Council's Steve Sawyer reflects on the event, whose mere presence in the US calendar shows just how far the renewable energy industry has come in recent times. Sun, 01 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/3331/wirec-reflects-the-winds-of-change-for-renewable-energy-in-the-usa/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/3338/renewable-energy-in-from-the-cold/ One of the hot topics for debate at the forthcoming Windpower 08 event in Houston, Texas, will be transmission. Following Texas' lead, four states possessing the wealthiest renewable resources in the Western USA have enacted their own laws to create Renewable Energy Zones, and define the transmission infrastructure that needs to be built to connect those resources to main transmission highways. Lyn Corum reviews the progress made to date in these states. Sun, 01 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/3338/renewable-energy-in-from-the-cold/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/3421/us-energy-bill-something-missing/ As the wind and solar industry in the USA plan their next course of action after the disappointment of the recent US Energy Bill, was there any good news for renewable energy? And how could the upcoming Governmental WIREC event play out, as a change in administration moves ever closer? Fri, 01 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/3421/us-energy-bill-something-missing/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/3455/intelligent-wind-turbine-blade-monitoring-the-benefits/ Structural health monitoring (SHM) of wind turbine drive trains is now regarded as an essential part of any MW class of wind turbine and has a dual pay-off for wind energy, as George Marsh found out when he examined an innovative solution from Insensys. Fri, 01 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/3455/intelligent-wind-turbine-blade-monitoring-the-benefits/ http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/3558/transmission-projects-in-the-usa/ Texas is moving closer to the establishment of five Competitive Renewable energy Zones (CREZS), which proponents say could double wind power in the USA. And as Lyn Corum reports, the wind industry in the western USA could also be set for a major boost, as plans for major transmission initiatives move forward. Thu, 01 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocususa.com/view/3558/transmission-projects-in-the-usa/