Can solar paint power up your house? The Notre Dame’s Center for Nano Science and Technology (NDnano) research team unveiled “Sun-Believable,” which may change the face of solar someday. Before you start thinking about repainting your house, the paint is a work in progress. According to the team, the research showed the paint only had a […]
RE_Home, U of Illinois’ Solar Decathlon House: Reactive to Disasters
The University of Illinois designed The Re_Home for the 2011 Solar Decathlon with disaster response in mind. It is a very adaptable, flexible space to accommodate different family situations. Why a disaster response house? The state is prone to destructive tornadoes. The beauty of the house is that two modular components of the Re_Home can be transported on one trailer. In addition, the solar […]
Solar Decathlon 2011. Everything Green Under the Sun
Attending the 2011 collegiate Solar Decathlon in Washington DC this year was a dream come true. Nineteen domestic and international college teams competed to design, build, and operate solar-powered houses that were cost-effective, energy-efficient, and attractive. The solar decathlon goal was to build a home under 1000 square feet and $350,000. At $350 a square foot, the cost to go […]
Made with Wind Love: WindMade, the Newest Green Biz Label
The WindMade label is the newest label to enter the overcrowded green certificates and labels field. However, as the name implies, this label is geared towards acknowledging corporations that power their business with wind. In addition, the label is backed by quantifiable standards and accounting methods to insure consumer transparency. To see a brief overview […]
A.O. Smith Hot Water Heaters: Where Being in Hot Water is a Good Thing
Last month, I had the pleasure of interviewing David Chisholm of A.O. Smith about their line of efficient water heaters. What makes A.O. Smith’s water heater product line so unique is the variety they offer: ultra-efficient (gas or electric), tankless, solar or a hybrid water heater. As David explained, A.O. Smith is committed to finding […]
Solar Leasing: The Solar Affordable Option through One Block Off the Grid
I am a huge fan of One Block off the Grid which provide group discounts for solar installations. (See here if group discounts are availabe in your town.) But what if you don’t want to spend a chunk of upfront change on system but want the benefits? The Company now offers the same group savings through […]
Solar PPA : The Affordable Solar Answer? Sunlight General Cap Explains
With energy bills soaring and the poor economy, the costs of solar energy systems may be beyond the reach of many businesses and municipalities. As George Harrison sang in his song, “Got My Mind Set on You,” it’s going to take a whole lot of money. He obviously was singing about his wish for solar. […]
Green News 12.06.10: Solar Films, Coal the Comeback Kid, Tattoo Ink
This week my email box was on steroids. Lots of green goodness in this news round-up. I would gather to say this list of articles is one of my most eclectic mix to boot ranging from Xerox’s new recycling program to the hidden dangers of tattoo ink. Sprinkled with the new Nike eco-design tool, Toxic Toys R US, and […]
