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Smart Grid event - Future metering devices

Posted by Michal Lenchner on August 29th, 2010

The current metering devices for generating, transmitting and distributing electrical informationr are vulnerable to failure. The need to revamp this outdated technology is apparent, especially in an age of renewable energy. Original image from freefoto.comOriginal image from freefoto.comThe smart grid creates opportunities beyond new meter devices and simple data collection.... read more

Universal Studios - Green Seal Award

Posted by Michal Lenchner on August 19th, 2010

Universal Studios, HollywoodUniversal Studios, Hollywood

Universal Studios in Hollywood was recently honored with the EMA Environmental Media Association (EMA) Green Seal Award. The award is the first-ever given to a theme park for its commitment and effort in working towards a more environmentally conscious workplace and community.

I recently toured the theme park to witness their ‘greening’ efforts as a casual visitor.... read more

Common misconceptions about water

Posted by Michal Lenchner on August 16th, 2010

People believe there is enough fresh water and that all we need to do is ‘harvest’ it. We should remember that where water falls is not necessarily where people live or need it. Certain geographical areas have abundance, but we cannot utilize water everywhere, as usage depends on where people live, produce, and function. From opencage.com... read more

Plug-In 2010: Two Solutions for DC Fast Charging of EVs

Posted by tlewis on August 1st, 2010

DC fast charging is the Holy Grail for eliminating range anxiety in pure battery electric vehicles.  It has the promise of permitting you to charge 80 miles of range on the Leaf in less than 30 minutes.  So, to the extent that these beasts are accessible out on the road, you will be able to drive farther, and recover when you forget to plug-in.  Also, they open the EV market to folks who cannot charge at home or work, including the millions of urban dwellers for whom an EV could be ideal.  No matter how big the battery, there are cases where access to a DC fast charger will be valuable. 

Well, it turns out there are two incompatible standards emerging for DC fast chargers.  There were some sessions in the Plug-in 2010 conference in San Jose this week that added clarity to these two alternatives.... read more

The power of geothermal energy

Posted by sarahberon on July 22nd, 2010

It's been around since the beginning of our earth's existence. Ironically, it's just now starting to become popular. Geothermal energy is, in most simple terms, the energy of the earth. It's a form of renewable energy, different than solar, which transfers heat from the earth's crust to provide an extremely efficient, sustainable, and wallet-friendly source of both heating and cooling. If you think about how this works, it's pretty basic. Regardless of what the weather may be outside our windows, the underground temperature in the core of the earth stays constant.... read more

Plug-In 2010 Exposition Opens To The Public

Posted by tlewis on July 6th, 2010
A DC fast charger connector usable with electric vehicles that will be available the end of this year.  Used with permission from EVnut.com

Do you want to know more about developments in the plug-in vehicle market?  If yes, then save out the evening of Tuesday, July 27th to attend Public Night of the Plug-in 2010 conference in San Jose.

This event debuted in San Jose two years ago, and took place in Long Beach last year.  So, there is certainly potential for it to not return to the bay area until 2012.

There is no need to worry about advance registration because the $10 entrance fee to Public Night is payable at the door.

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Boycotting BP

Posted by krissy on May 24th, 2010

According to BoycottBP.org in regards to BP's oil spill cleanup "efforts" --  "BP has been quick to publicize the enormity of its response efforts. By their own estimates, they are spending 6 million dollars per day. Contrast that number with their average daily revenue of 654 million dollars (during 2009). They're spending less than 1% of daily revenue on their cleanup efforts!"  

Come on, BP.  You can do better than that.

This isn't even the first time we've seen BP being careless with our environment.

It's time to find a new place to fill up your tank.  

The following are the brands to avoid:... read more

Sustainable Brands Conference 2010 - June 7-10

Posted by Michal Lenchner on May 23rd, 2010

For anyone who is interested in 'green' marketing, branding, strategy, sustainable business, and overall business leadership and trends, check out this conference. Sustainable Brands Conference 2010Sustainable Brands Conference 2010

The Sustainable Brands Conference 2010 in Monterey, California, is geared for marketing professionals and executives who are looking to understand the unfolding market drivers and leading-edge strategies for building business and brand value by innovating for sustainability.... read more

About the BP Oil Spill & How to Help

Posted by krissy on May 20th, 2010

Feeling a little helpless about the BP oil spill?   Me too...but there are many ways to help!

There's a lot of information, misinformation, and unanswered questions about the horrifying BP oil spill.  I've compiled a list of resources blow to follow what's been going on.   ... read more

Reserving Your Nissan Leaf

Posted by tlewis on May 12th, 2010

Starting May 15th you will be able to reserve an all-electric Nissan Leaf at this link.  You will need to pay a $100 refundable deposit to get on the list.

The Leaf is targeted to be a commute car, so it can be viable if you have access to another vehicle in your family for long distance traveling.  There are plenty of naysayers who have plenty of reasons why the Leaf is not for them, and why they think it will not be successful.  But the Leaf is the first car since the RAV4EV to be a viable mass market all-battery electric.  The recent oil spill in the gulf helps highlight why this car is so compelling, and if you insist on transportation without oil, then the Leaf is definitely your best choice right now.

Nissan LeafNissan LeafUpper RearUpper Rear

 

 

 

 

 

 

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