Alternative Energy News Items - 3/20/2008
Subaru To Test EV in NY This Summer
In conjunction with the New York Power Authority, Subaru plans to test its R1e Electric Vehicle this summer. Along with the announcement at the New York Auto Show later in March, Subaru will provide two test vehicles to display throughout the show.
Subaru uses a quick charge lithium ion battery that allows charging of partially charged batteries, unlike the older lithium ion battery. This means that the car’s batteries can be recharged up to 80% in as little as 15 minutes. Subaru Will Evaluate The R1e EV in the US This Summer.
Wind Power Should Be Used For Computers, Expert Says
Professor Andy Hopper thinks that wind and solar power should be used to power computers from remote locations where servers could be powered without using the national grid. Hopper’s ideas also include locating the servers close to wind farms that are “going full tilt” as he puts it. In his view, this would do a lot toward separating the power intensive computers from household power needs. Computers Should Be Powered By Wind
Electronics Recycling Is Getting Closer, But Slowly
The Product Stewardship Council is just one of the parties interested in the future of electronic waste recycling. The framework for a bill to regulate electronic recycling is making the rounds of manufacturers, environmentalists, the EPA, national and state legislators, with requests for comments.
So far, the PSC has weighed in with its view that electronic recycling won’t be effective unless there is a mandate from the government. Electronics Recycling Bill Grinding Its Way Toward Consensus.
Hybrid and Electric Cars Could Negatively Impact Water Supplies Without Switch to Renewable Fuels
A new study proposes that hybrid and electric cars’ power demands could threaten water supplies in drought-prone areas, if fossil fuels are used to create that power. While the headline seems daunting at first glance, to some environmentalists this only means that new, renewable sources of power generation will be needed in future to meet the demands of new green technology. Thirsty Hybrid And Electric Cars Could Triple Demands On Scarce Water Resources.
Sun Baked Oven an Alternative to Grills
Even in Canada in the winter, Stephen Kerr’s Sun Baked Oven solar cooker will work to grill your burger or warm up a cup of coffee. As a matter of fact, because of its parabolic structure, the unit actually works better in the winter.
Kerr admits that you’ll still need a backup source for cooking on cloudy days or after the sun goes down, but the Sun Baked Oven is still a good way to get away from cooking all of your meals with carbon-based technology. Here’s an Interview With the Solar Cooking Chef.