Rear Vision looks at the history of the automobile. Raises some interesting points as to why petrol cars have dominated and there has been very little progress in terms of efficiency. When the personal car was first invented t was a battle between the electric car, steam and petrol. Maybe it’s not too late for electric cars to make a comeback
RN Rear Vision – 17 February 2008 – Car crazy
At the invitation of the German Federal Government, representatives from more than 60 countries met in Berlin earlier this month to discuss the founding of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), an intergovernmental organization that will exist to exclusively promote the adoption of renewable energy worldwide. This is indeed a good news for the future of sustainable energy technologies.
IRENA will address several critical barriers that are preventing the full-scale adoption of renewable energy. It will provide informed policy advice and assistance to national governments that are currently lacking the means and capacity to develop effective regulatory frameworks for renewable energy adoption.
You can find more about this news by Lily Riahi in the following link:
http://www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/news/story?id=52254
Cheers
Anil
There is some very interesting research at the moment looking into replacing batteries with Fuel Cells. Being able to replace Lithium-Ion batteries in consumer electronics with a Fuel Cell powered by a Hydrogen or Methanol canister has many advantages including longer power reserves and much faster recharging times. But one of the main sticking points in further developing this technology has been the reluctance of commercial airlines and aviators to allow Fuel Cell canisters onto their flights. The fears being that the flammable gas contained inside the canister poses a risk to the aircraft if it somehow catches fire.
Well this week we have seen the first steps towards approving the carriage on aeroplanes of these (so far unavailable) power sources. The US Department of Transportation has just made a ruling that will let passengers carry approved methanol fuel cells and up to two spare fuel cartridges in their carry-on bags.
FTA:
“Fuel cells also can’t spontaneously burst into flames. A person would have to apply a flame to a fuel cell to ignite methanol, which is an alcohol. Presumably, security will take lighters and matches away from someone at the gate. Lithium-ion batteries in rare instances have blown up, but those instances have been alarming.
Fuel cell technology, though, isn’t easy and fuel cells have faced several delays. Lim says fuel cells will likely begin to come out in 2009. MTI is working with Samsung on fuel cells for phones.
Canada, China, Japan, and the UK already let passengers carry their nonexistent fuel cells onboard.”
http://www.news.com/8301-11128_3-9933408-54.html?tag=nefd.blgs
Hi all,
For those who have not seen via my post to the MIET2126 & 2127 discussion board. A very interesting report.
http://www.abareconomics.com/publications_html/energy/energy_08/energyAUS08.pdf
Cheers,
TonyB
From the Science Show on radio national:
Conventional hydrogen production is expensive. A cheaper method involves using algae. The algae live in a series of ponds. Hydrogen is collected as it bubbles to the surface. An advantage is microalgae can be located on non-arable land and dont compete with food production.
Normally algae use sunlight to split water into protons and elections. Combined with carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, the cell is able to produce all the biomolecules it requires. If the cultures are depleted of sulphur, the photosynthetic pathway switches to the production of hydrogen
Science Show – 26April2008 – Hydrogen production from algae
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Posted 28 April 2008
† iain §
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Tagged: Hydrogen
An excellent video describing the development of next generation biofuels in the United States. Next generation biofuels aim for greater efficiency than ethanol while avoiding the food supply issues associated with first generation biofuels.
http://www.kqed.org/quest/television/view/819
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Posted 26 April 2008
† iain §
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Tagged: Biofuels
Energy efficiency has never been a critical factor in automotive sector even now. But with the increase in fuel prices it is becoming more and more desicive.
Lot less development has taken place till now regarding improvement in efficiency till now…. In 1940 when Ford and Volkwagen were mass producing cars engine efficiency was in rane of 20%. In last alonst 70 years the efficiency has increased just to 35%. Still we are wasting 1/3 power that can be used.
Most engines work most efficiently at highest rated RPM. But most of the time they are running below its rated speed. Hence they work even more inefficiently.
An exciting new technology named HYDRAULIC HYBRIDS looks like a great option to store energy. The working principle is similar to electric hybrids. here the electric generator and motor are replaced by hydraulic motors and Pumps. Battery is replaced by High pressure accumulators, and all the wiring and accesories are replaced by hydraulic tubing and valves.
Continue Reading »
An interesting analysis of some of the assumptions and mathematics behind a target of 450 ppm. Joseph Romm has written extensively on energy related matters including hydrogen powered cars, etc.
Climate Progress » Blog Archive » Is 450 ppm politically possible? Part 2.5: The fuzzy math of the stabilization wedges
A good summary of recent developments in solar thermal for electricity production.
Concentrated solar power | Salon News
Here is a great story from the Guardian about the worlds largest wind farm. Its so non stereotypical of who does what, how and why in sustainable energy.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2008/apr/14/windpower.energy
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Posted 14 April 2008
† JeremyC §
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Tagged: Wind
Australian Renewable Energy News