Recently I ran across an article in North American Clean Energy where an economist was saying that grid parity is the only reason why the use of photovoltaic solar energy will become widespread. Personally, I believe that this is largely true in the U.S. In this country, it is usually all about money, and it is [...]
Archive for the ‘Uncategorized’ Category
A Message from the President of FREA (April, 2012)
Posted in Uncategorized on April 22, 2012 | 3 Comments »
Utility Scale Solar Farms In Florida
Posted in Energy Solutions, solar, Sustainability, Uncategorized on April 17, 2011 | 10 Comments »
Enthusiasm among Florida environmentalists for the utility scale solar projects constructed by Florida Power and Light is still running high. These megawatt-size, pilot, photovoltaic and thermal plants in Desoto, Martin and Brevard counties follow several decades behind what California utilities have already accomplished. Nevertheless, the Florida environmental community is happy to see the process started [...]
Ending The Culture of Oil Dependency
Posted in biodiesel, Clean Vehicles, Energy Solutions, ethanol, hydrogen, solar, Sustainability, Uncategorized, wind on January 12, 2011 | 2 Comments »
In his book, Your World Is About To Get a Whole Lot Smaller, Toronto economist Jeff Rubin argues that Americans never pointed their finger at the real cause of the great 2008 recession. We blame fraudulent credit reporting agencies, unscrupulous mortgage companies, “fat cat” bankers and even the federal government. All these and more may [...]
Solar Energy Discussion; Maitland, Altamonte Springs, Winter Park, Orlando
Posted in Uncategorized on September 20, 2010 | 2 Comments »
The Florida Energy and Climate Commission is sponsoring a solar information event on Wednesday, September 22, at the Homebuilders Association Office in Maitland. The address is 544 Mayo Avenue. Time 6 – 9 PM. David Bessette, former president of the Solar Energy Industries Association will present information and answer questions about solar installations and the [...]
House Passes Climate and Energy Bill
Posted in Uncategorized on June 28, 2009 | 1 Comment »
How Sweet It Is! Does anyone doubt that we have entered the New Era? I had sent an email to my Central Florida Congressman, John Mica, urging him to support the Bill. He wrote back that he understands the need to protect the environment, but he is concerned about the loss of so many jobs. [...]
Broward / Miami-Dade Looking to Streamline Solar Building Code
Posted in Uncategorized on January 25, 2009 | 1 Comment »
I saw this on a Blog called the Miami Solar Forum A joint Broward/Miami-Dade Boards of Rules and Appeals (BORA) Sub-Committee meeting will be held on February 9, 2009 beginning at 10:00 am at 140 West Flagler, Miami – 16th Floor conference room. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss issues with industry representatives [...]
Who Will Bring Back the Electric Car?
Posted in Clean Vehicles, Uncategorized on January 18, 2009 | 1 Comment »
I was surprised by the electric car in the movie Who Killed the Electric Car. It was smart looking and was seen traveling easily at highway speeds. Will Detroit bring it back? There were several demos at this years auto show. Let’s hope it comes back quickly and at an affordable price. The Florida Electric [...]
Electric Utiities see Business Rooftops for Solar
Posted in solar, Uncategorized on November 3, 2008 | Leave a Comment »
Rooftops are the most reasonable surfaces for solar photovoltaic panels. They are the most efficient locations; line losses are virtually zero and no environmental impact statements are necessary. No fields or forests need be cleared. Many homes in suburban areas do not have shade trees and can take advantage of full sun. If the question [...]
Biodiesel Workshop at Florida Solar Energy Center
Posted in Uncategorized on September 21, 2008 | 1 Comment »
October 3, 2008 is National Alternative Fuel Vehicle Odyssey Day at FSEC. Biodiesel in Florida will be the topic of discussion. The Agenda suggests information about feedstocks, production and where you can get it. Truck drivers and other diesel drivers might want to attend this one. One biodiesel feedstock gaining attention is jatropha nuts. The [...]
Photovoltaics perfect for schools
Posted in Uncategorized on September 1, 2007 | 4 Comments »
PV on schools is such a no-brainer. Most K-12 schools are in use during daylight hours only. What perfect timing! Schools also act as emergency shelters. An energy system independent from utility power and vulnerable electric lines can keep emergency operations functioning. Middleton High School gets an A plus for their 10.5 KW installation with [...]