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When it comes to cleantech and sustainability, how can we bridge the gap between theory and practice and provide a comprehensive real-world view of the future of cleantech?Image from FreeFoto

Check the following events and networking opportunities in the San Francisco Bay Area:... read more

What are the areas for opportunity in Clean Tech in 2010?

To learn of the challenges the industry faces and enhance learnings, here are a few more events in Silicon Valley: Image from Silicon French website... read more

One of the essential problems with solar power is the cost. Even with government subsidies and major growth, photovolatic energy is not cost competitive when compared to traditional power sources such as oil and coal.  An element of photovoltaic costs is the materials used in the manufacturing process. Approximately 75 percent of the costs of solar cell comes from the sunlight-to-electricity converter.  The remaining 25 percent is produced from manufactured packaging including petroleum-based plastics.  These plastics are prisoners to the ever increasing cost of petroleum and add to environmental degradation that solar is seeking to remedy.

The problem is that most conventional bio-plastics are not suitable for use in solar cells.  These renewable plant based materials posses a lower melting point and fragile molecular structure.  The high temperature production of photovoltaics usually causes breakdowns or alterations in structure.  Thus, one aspect of lowering costs in the solar industry and tackling the problem of down stream pollution is the creation of alternatives to petroleum-based plastics.

For an industry with an expected growth to $50 billion by 2020, there is a huge gap in the market that needs to be filled.  Enter BioSolar. BioSolar is a Santa Clarita, California based company that is the first anywhere to introduce a new dimension of cost reduction by replacing petroleum-based plastic solar cell components with durable bio-based materials.  BioSolar was formed in 2006 by electrical engineer and current CEO Dr. David Lee. BioSolar, Inc. is a public company trading on the NASDAQ Over-the-Counter Bulletin Board (OTCBB) market under the symbol "BSRC" or "BSRC.OB".

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There are reasons for 'green careers' optimism. In particular, the renewable energy economy sparks high interest and creates numerous opportunities for green jobs and career training paths. The federal government is investing billions into the renewable energy and energy efficiency sectors to help get the U.S. economy back on track. Existing and emerging businesses are investing even more. Photo by Swords to Plowshares... read more

As the green economy is developing, whether you want to move your green career ahead, or focus on greening your current career, many green economy experts agree that now is the time to learn about different green industries and companies, to buBackground image from marketing news magazineild and strengthen your green network, and do your homework.

Researching and exploring several target industries are important, as the time invested and the learnings will allow you to better understand what you want and will also help with the next steps you need to take.

Planning ahead and defining what you want to accomplish to reach your green career goals will help you know what to do next and how to better manage your time in your job search.

When opportunities arise, such as a networking event or a meeting, a class or training sessions you could take, or acting on contact or a job lead – assess whether each occasion might help you move toward your goals and if it’s worth your time.

One way to build your green network is to get involved with a green community organization, usually a non-profit, where you won’t only make a difference and contribute to your community, but also will provide you with many learning opportunities of your chosen green sectors, as well as will enhance your quality green contacts. Find other people who share your enthusiasm in particular environmental areas.... read more