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	<title>Sierra Club Green Home &#187; Solar</title>
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		<title>New Windows Generate Solar Power</title>
		<link>http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/green-news/new-windows-generate-electricity-double-as-solar-panels/</link>
		<comments>http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/green-news/new-windows-generate-electricity-double-as-solar-panels/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 08 Jan 2012 11:00:12 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Debra Atlas</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Green News]]></category>
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		<description><![CDATA[Florida-based SAF-GLAS, which creates disaster-resistant and security-related glass products, recently introduced EnergyGlass at a solar seminar at GlassBuild America. This transparent glass incorporates inorganic nanoparticles into clear laminated glass. With its use of a proprietary polycarbonate interlayer and patented film, this turns a window into a 24-hour a day solar “farm.” (Photo by Ecstaticist, Flickr)]]></description>
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(Ecstaticist, Flickr)" class="shutterset_set_89" >
								<img title=" " alt=" " src="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/cms/wp-content/gallery/windows-make-solar-power/thumbs/thumbs_vancouver-skyscrapers-by-ecstaticist-flickr.jpg" width="100" height="75" />
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(Courtesy of National Glass Association)" class="shutterset_set_89" >
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		<div class="ngg-imagebrowser-desc"><p>EnergyGlass can be combined with security glass to withstand disasters like hurricanes, forced entry, bullets, bomb blasts and fires.
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By <a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/our-writers/">Debra Atlas<br />
</a><em><em>January 8, 2012</em> </em> </em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">With the growing emphasis on alternative energy sources and solar power, rooftop solar arrays are springing up around the country. As useful and environmentally-friendly as <a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/glossary/glossary-of-green-terms/">photovoltaic</a> panels are, they don’t exactly blend in aesthetically. What’s more, they can sometimes be difficult to integrate with other rooftop equipment, and can sustain damage from exposure to the elements.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Florida-based <a href="http://www.saf-glas.com/#SAF-GLAS">SAF-GLAS</a>, which creates disaster-resistant and security-related glass products, recently introduced EnergyGlass at a solar seminar at <a href="http://www.glassbuildamerica.com/#GlassBuild America expo">GlassBuild America</a>. This transparent glass incorporates inorganic nanoparticles into clear laminated glass. With its use of a proprietary polycarbonate interlayer and patented film, this turns a window into a 24-hour a day solar “farm.”</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The first of its kind, <a href="http://www.energyglass.com/#EnergyGlass">EnergyGlass</a> goes beyond the capabilities of traditional solar power panels, which depend on both placement and angling in direct sunlight. It’s able to collect light from natural, ambient and artificial light sources such as hotel or office lighting. Once collected, the light is transformed into electricity, then used or sent for storage to a backup battery system for power outages or other emergency situations.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Unlike other solar windows, EnergyGlass windows have no lines or mesh incorporated into them. You get a clear view of the outdoors, as with any standard window.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">EnergyGlass can be fashioned to any size, shape or style and can be installed in a vertical or horizontal position. Each window is made of two clear glass panels with a solar laminate sandwiched between them, creating a single laminated solar pane. It can be tinted, insulated and can even incorporate <a href="http://www.energysavers.gov/your_home/windows_doors_skylights/index.cfm/mytopic=13430#Low E glass">Low E glass</a> and other related products to create additional energy savings.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">This glass has numerous other applications. By including additional laminating procedures, it can be used in combination with <a href="http://www.saf-glas.com/sgl/blast.cfm#Security glass by SAF-GLAS">security glass</a> to meet hurricane, typhoon, tornado, forced entry, bullet resistant, bomb blast, and fire protection levels.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">These solar power glass windows do share some of the benefits of solar panels. The electricity they generate allows building owners to sell electricity back to the main electrical grid and generate income.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“The nanoparticles in the laminate magnify and redirect the light to the edges of the glass, and then into our proprietary window edge frames,” says SAF-GLAS co-founder Art Marino.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">However, EnergyGlass won&#8217;t produce as much electricity as traditional photovoltaic (PV) panels.<br />
“The glass only features thin strips of monocrystalline cells, located around the edge of the laminated glass panel,” says SAF-GLAS owner <a href="http://www.glassmagazine.com/article/fabrication/pv-you-cant-see-118796#EnergyGlass generates less electricity">Patrick Smith</a>.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">&#8220;They took a product from the solar industry and married it with a relatively standard glazing industry product&#8221; says <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ccGnqJePDWM#Coonan demonstrates EnergyGlass">Steve Coonen</a>, BIPV consultant and principal, PV Glassworks, Grass Valley, California.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">EnergyGlass can be used for both new and retrofit applications. It qualifies for numerous local, state, and <a href="http://www.builditsolar.com/References/energyincentivesrs.htm#solar rebate programs">Federal government rebates</a>, incentives and subsidies that can cover up to 70 percent of total facade project costs.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Currently the company is offering quotes on EnergyGlass installations and anticipates it will be available for sale on the market this first quarter 2012.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em>Check out more articles <a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/our-writers/debra-atlas#Debra Atlas">by Debra Atlas</a></em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em>For related article, see:<br />
</em><em><a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/green-news/triple-benefits-of-solar-powered-ev-chargers/">Triple Benefits of Solar-Powered EV Chargers</a></em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em><br />
© 2012 SCGH, LLC.</em></p>
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		<title>Triple Benefits of Solar-Powered EV Chargers</title>
		<link>http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/green-news/triple-benefits-of-solar-powered-ev-chargers/</link>
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		<pubDate>Mon, 19 Dec 2011 09:00:23 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Erika F. Washington</dc:creator>
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		<description><![CDATA[With expectations of one million electric vehicles (EVs) entering America’s roadways by 2016, the need to establish a sustainable EV infrastructure is immediate. General Electric and REC Solar partner up to boost the placement of more solar-powered EV charging stations across the country. (Photo courtesy of GE.com)]]></description>
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		<div class="ngg-imagebrowser-desc"><p>REC Solar and General Electric (GE) are working together to create more of GE’s WattStations. (Courtesy of GE.com)</p></div>
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<p style="text-align: justify;"><em>By <a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/our-writers/" target="_blank">Erika F. Washington<br />
</a></em><em>December 19, 2011</em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">With the interest steadily growing for alternative fuel options for vehicles, more and more consumers are turning to flex fuel or electric-powered vehicles (EV). Issues still remain, however, with purchasing an EV. Some areas have few, if any, spaces for drivers to plug and recharge their cars.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.recsolar.com/" target="_blank">REC Solar</a> and <a href="http://www.ge-energy.com/" target="_blank">General Electric (GE)</a> are working together to create more of <a href="http://www.geindustrial.com/products/static/ecomagination-electric-vehicles/ge-wattstation.html" target="_blank">GE’s WattStations</a> to make the transition easier for consumers ready to purchase an EV.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“With expectations of one million EVs entering America’s roadways by 2016, the need to establish a sustainable EV infrastructure is here today,” says Lee Johnson, CEO of REC Solar.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Besides adding economic benefits to owning an EV, solar-powered charging offers environmental and energy-saving benefits.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">GE designed its WattStation to help accelerate the adoption of plug-in EVs by significantly decreasing the time needed for charging. It delivers a full charge in only four to eight hours, while standard overnight charging can take 12 to 14 hours, a negative for many would-be EV purchasers. Its smart, grid-enabled technology also could help utility companies manage the impact of EVs on the local and regional grids.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">As a distributor of the GE WattStation, REC Solar will make it easier for its thousands of commercial, government, and residential customers to incorporate EV charging capabilities. REC Solar specializes in state-of-the-art solar technology with a vision to make solar electricity a part of the mainstream energy supply.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">REC Solar and GE also are looking at a future transportation system free of fossil fuels. The partners  seek to create an end-to-end solar EV charging system that will enable cars to run literally on sunshine.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">With a cost around $2,000, EV owners can have a WattStation installed in their garage.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“Actual installation only takes a couple hours, but the big advantage is that it significantly cuts your charge time—basically in half,” says REC’s Cary Hayes.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The ultra-sustainable intersection of solar and EV industries means greater reduction of greenhouse gases and independence from fossil fuels. At the same time, the marriage of the two delivers economic benefits to drivers. The cost of driving a solar-charged EV may be 66 percent less than a gas-powered car, according to a recent study by <a href="http://www.greentechmedia.com/research/">Green Tech Media Research</a>, an online media company.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.ge.com/" target="_blank">GE</a> says it is dedicated to innovations in energy, health, transportation, and infrastructure. With operations in more than 100 countries, the company’s goal is to provide integrated product and service solutions in all areas of the energy industry, including renewable resources such as water, wind, solar and biogas, as well as other alternative fuels and new grid modernization technologies to meet 21st century energy needs.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Incorporating solar energy into EV use will help to ease the demand on electrical grids by a sharp increase of EV chargers. And solar energy itself contributes to a cleaner environment.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em>© 2011 SCGH, LLC.</em></p>
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		<title>Solar Carport for Shelter and Energy</title>
		<link>http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/go-green/renewable-energy/solar-carport-for-shelter-and-energy/</link>
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		<pubDate>Sun, 27 Nov 2011 10:52:53 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Victoria Lanier</dc:creator>
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		<description><![CDATA[DALLAS — University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center recently added a solar carport. Solar carports both protect cars from the elements and generate electricity for nearby buildings. UT’s solar carport helps the campus reduce its energy bill, and also serves as a charging station for electric vehicles. (Photo courtesy of UT Southwestern Medical Center)]]></description>
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								<img title=" " alt=" " src="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/cms/wp-content/gallery/uts-solar-carport/thumbs/thumbs_1-1332-technology-tour-highlights-solar-innovation.jpg" width="100" height="75" />
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								<img title=" " alt=" " src="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/cms/wp-content/gallery/uts-solar-carport/thumbs/thumbs_e800-solar-panel-construction-11-71.jpg" width="100" height="75" />
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<br />
By Victoria Lanier</em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">DALLAS — The University of Texas (UT) is known for developing innovative treatments to save lives, and now is using an innovative solar carport to help save the planet.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">UT Southwestern Medical Center recently added a solar carport to both protect cars from the elements and generate electricity for nearby buildings. It helps the campus reduce its energy bill and also serves as a charging station for electric vehicles.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">It also makes a big difference in UT’s efforts to reduce its carbon footprint. The university estimates that it <a href="http://www.utsouthwestern.edu/about-us/green/index.html">saves them more than 400,000 kilowatt-hours</a>, which is the equivalent of taking the carbon output of 56 passenger vehicles off the road.</p>
<p><em>© 2011 SCGH, LLC. </em></p>
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		<title>Old Plastic Bottles Bring Light</title>
		<link>http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/success-stories/old-plastic-bottles-bring-light/</link>
		<comments>http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/success-stories/old-plastic-bottles-bring-light/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 26 Nov 2011 09:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Debra Atlas</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Electronics]]></category>
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		<description><![CDATA[PHILIPPINES — Millions of people in the Philippines live in relative darkness. With the cost of electricity beyond the means of many, residents of poorer communities resort to using candles or kerosene lamps, which pose serious health and fire hazards. But, there is an incredibly simple solution that is both greener and safer. (Photo courtesy of ALiterofLight.org)]]></description>
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(Courtesy of ALiterofLight.org)" class="shutterset_set_59" >
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		<div class="ngg-imagebrowser-desc"><p>A solar bulb brightens a marketplace. 
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<br />
By <a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/debra-atlas/" target="_blank">Debra Atlas<br />
</a></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">PHILIPPINES — Millions of people in the Philippines live in (relative) darkness. The cost of electricity is beyond the means of many, so residents of poorer communities resort to candles or kerosene lamps, which pose serious health and fire hazards.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Using electricity 24 hours per day, something most of us take for granted, <a href="http://isanglitrongliwanag.org/about-isang-litrong-liwanag-a-liter-of-light-project/#the Isang Litrong Liwanag Project" target="_blank">raises a household’s expenses</a> by approximately 40 percent. In a country where the average income ranges from minimum wage to less than $1 a day, this added expense is not seen as crucial.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">However, there is an incredibly simple solution that is both greener and safer.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The Solar Bottle Bulb was originally <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gYPBr0kutk4#Solar bottle bulb developed by students" target="_blank">developed by students at MIT</a> and spearheaded by <a href="http://isanglitrongliwanag.org/about-illac-diaz/#Mac Diaz" target="_blank">Mac Diaz</a>, the innovative founder of <a href="http://www.%20extendyourself.org/my-shelter-foundation.html#MyShelter Foundation" target="_blank">MyShelter Foundation</a>. It uses plastic water bottles and a little bleach to bring light to the darkness.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">To create the bulb, developers fit 1.5 liter plastic bottles containing water and bleach snugly into holes in a metal roof. Sunlight refracts through and off the water, creating free solar lighting equivalent to 55 or 60 watts of clean white light. The bleach inside the bottles prevents algae from forming inside them. The bottles do not heat up and are designed to produce clear light for approximately five years.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The MyShelter Foundation is currently distributing thousands of these lights to homeowners across the Philippines, where oftentimes homes are built so close together that little to no light can get through the windows.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The <a href="file:///C:/Users/Julius/Dropbox/Newsroom/1.%20FIRST%20EDIT/2011.11.26%20solar%20bottle%20bulb/%C2%B7%20http:/isanglitrongliwanag.org#The Isang Litrong Liwanag Project" target="_blank">Isang Litrong Liwanag</a> (&#8220;A Liter of Light&#8221;) project is a sustainable lighting project whose aim is to bring light to low-income communities. The organization envisions lighting 1 million homes by 2012. So far, they have distributed <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rYTIYUUK70I&amp;feature=player_detailpage" target="_blank">10,000 solar bulbs</a>.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The installation of these bulbs is brightening more than the homes they light: They are helping to create a better quality of life for entire communities.</p>
<p><em>Check out more articles by <a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/debra-atlas/" target="_blank">Debra Atlas</a>.</em></p>
<p><em>© 2011 SCGH, LLC.</em></p>
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		<title>Technology for Smart Homes, Smart Cities</title>
		<link>http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/videos/technology-for-smart-homes-smart-cities/</link>
		<comments>http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/videos/technology-for-smart-homes-smart-cities/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 20 Nov 2011 04:15:19 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>E.Q. Lam</dc:creator>
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		<description><![CDATA[Japan is known for being high tech, and thanks to companies such as Panasonic, its high tech is going green. Take a look at Panasonic’s eco innovations for the smart home of the future and the smart city the company plans to complete by 2013. (Illustration courtesy of Panasonic)]]></description>
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		<div class="ngg-imagebrowser-desc"><p>Design of Fujisawa sustainable smart town in Japan, to be realized in 2013. (Courtesy of Panasonic)</p></div>
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</em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em>Editor’s Note: This story is part of a series looking at Panasonic and its ecological strategies and technological developments.</em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em>By <a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/emmie-lam/" target="_blank">E.Q. Lam</a></em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Japan is known for being high tech, and thanks to companies such as <a href="http://panasonic.com/environmental/">Panasonic</a>, its high tech is going green. Take a look at Panasonic’s <a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/green-news/panasonic-makes-eco-innovation-central-focus/" target="_blank">eco innovations</a> for appliances and electronics, both those currently on the market as well as those the company hopes to introduce in the near future. The company’s various divisions have public venues which showcase the products for complete energy solutions for the home. In addition, Panasonic is spearheading entire smart town projects in Japan and other parts of Asia.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The <a href="http://panasonic.co.jp/ecohouse/en/" target="_blank">Eco Ideas House</a>, located at Panasonic Center Tokyo, welcomes tour groups such as students and on weekends is open to the public without an appointment. The House models products and appliances for daily living for the home of the future—one with zero carbon emissions. Panasonic is focusing on three areas for a sustainable lifestyle: ways to save energy, create energy, and store energy. Check out the quick tour below:</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><p><a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/videos/technology-for-smart-homes-smart-cities/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Among the features at the Eco Ideas House are the following:</p>
<ul style="text-align: justify;">
<li>A Home energy management system (HEMS), which will even tell you when the best time to do laundry is, according to the weather forecast.</li>
<li>Standard household electric vehicle charging station, which plugs into a regular outlet.</li>
<li>LED lighting system, with LED light bulbs that use seven watts (one-sixth that of incandescent bulbs, which consume 45 watts of power, but with the same brightness). The lighting system can be adjusted by shade or color quality (from warm to cool).</li>
<li>Home office technology for “e-work,” to cut out travel (daily commutes as well as long-distance business trips). The Japanese government estimates that 2 million tele-workers could reduce CO2 emissions by 4 million tons, according to Naomi Tomaru, Eco Ideas House guide. The technology features no noticeable time lapse between sound and images, so the communication is as natural as speaking to someone physically present. For document exchange, high-quality image capability means documents appear clear enough to read when shown to the camera.</li>
<li>The house of the future will create energy with <a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/fuel-cell-center/" target="_blank">fuel cells</a> and solar power generators (5,060-watt capacity for 22 modules on the roof of an average Japanese home), and store the energy in a storage battery. In an emergency (e.g., a power outage), you can reverse charge a home from your electric vehicle to the home.</li>
<li>The ventilation system takes in cool air in the summer and warm air in the winter through the floor, where the air temperature is more stable.</li>
<li>U-Vacua super-thin insulation material will be used as building materials for the home itself as well as in appliances such as refrigerators and bath tubs. Panasonic achieves 20 times more energy efficiency than foam with the thinner insulation.</li>
<li>A washing machine with a tilted drum, which allows the same amount of clothes in a load to be washed using 50 percent less water, because the tilted angle of the drum extends the water level.</li>
<li>A sit-down shower system which uses only one-eighth the amount of hot water in a typical bath.</li>
</ul>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Also, in 2008 Panasonic began to create eco home products under the product group ECO NAVI: to help you navigate energy management. Check out the Osaka-area ECO NAVI House, a showcase of the latest technology developed by Panasonic to help consumers navigate their home’s use of resources. The company also encourages <a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/eco-money-saver/double-energy-savings-with-diy-tips-and-technology/" target="_blank">do-it-yourself</a> methods to reduce energy use. Find out the famous Japanese home product that inspired nearly 30 more products:</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><p><a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/videos/technology-for-smart-homes-smart-cities/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Besides providing technology solutions for smart homes and businesses, Panasonic is collaborating with the local city government to develop a <a href="http://ch.panasonic.co.jp/global/contents/03044/" target="_blank">sustainable smart city in Fujisawa</a>, east of Tokyo, on land that formerly held a Panasonic factory. The project is expected to provide 1,000 homes as well as small businesses, medical centers, community centers, and mobility services such as shared electric vehicles. The town will have a community grid and equipment and systems for optimal energy, security, and information. The smart town is set to open in 2013 and has a target of 70 percent CO2 emissions reductions.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Panasonic also is involved in smart city projects elsewhere, including Tianjin Eco-City and Dalian Best-City (both in China) and a pilot project for total energy solutions for residential buildings in Singapore. For these projects in Japan and Asia, Panasonic is addressing two concerns: lack of raw materials and a growing population in urban areas—particularly in China, Japan, Europe, and the United States.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“We need many, many resources to maintain our living,” says Haruyuki Ishio, Panasonic’s director for the Corporate Division for Promoting Energy Solutions Business. “The ordinary or old cities cannot serve the concentration of populations. We believe the smart cities can be an answer to this global picture.”</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em>For related articles, see:<br />
<a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/?p=11493" target="_blank">Novel Japanese Recycling Plant</a><br />
<a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/eco-money-saver/double-energy-savings-with-diy-tips-and-technology/" target="_blank">Double Energy Savings With DIY Tips and Technology</a></em><br />
<em> <a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/green-news/panasonic-makes-eco-innovation-central-focus/" target="_blank">Panasonic Makes Eco Innovation Central Focus</a></em><br />
<em> <a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/videos/exclusive-interview-with-panasonic-vice-president/" target="_blank">Exclusive Interview With Panasonic Vice President</a></em><br />
<em> <a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/videos/green-energy-park-may-be-answer-to-power-supply/" target="_blank">Green Energy Park May Be Answer to Power Supply</a><a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/videos/green-energy-park-may-be-answer-to-power-supply/" target="_blank"><br />
</a></em><em></em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em>Travel and accommodations provided by Panasonic Corporation.</em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em>Check out <a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/emmie-lam/" target="_blank">more articles </a>by E.Q. Lam.</em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em>© 2011 SCGH, LLC.</em></p>
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		<title>Green Energy Park May Be Answer to Power Supply</title>
		<link>http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/videos/green-energy-park-may-be-answer-to-power-supply/</link>
		<comments>http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/videos/green-energy-park-may-be-answer-to-power-supply/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 17 Nov 2011 01:19:38 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>E.Q. Lam</dc:creator>
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		<description><![CDATA[One of the most exciting acquisitions Panasonic made when merging with SANYO is Kasai Green Energy Park, a massive testing site for large-scale, renewable power storage systems. It is what Panasonic sees as the answer to energy resources issues. Take a tour of the high-security facility.]]></description>
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		<div class="ngg-imagebrowser-desc"><p>An electric vehicle is stationed beneath the Solalib solar charging station, a 12.6-meter diameter symbol of the Kasai Green Energy Park, resembling a “tree in the sun.” (By E.Q. Lam)</p></div>
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</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em>Editor’s Note: This story is part of a series looking at Panasonic and its ecological strategies and technological developments.</em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em>By <a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/emmie-lam/" target="_blank">E.Q. Lam</a><br />
November 16, 2011</em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Incorporating the strengths of SANYO into <a href="http://www.panasonic.net/" target="_blank">Panasonic</a> undoubtedly puts the latter company closer to achieving its quest to be the <a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/green-news/panasonic-makes-eco-innovation-central-focus/" target="_blank">leading green electronics company</a> by its 100th anniversary in 2018. Panasonic Group recently gained full control of SANYO Electric, thereby acquiring SANYO’s technology in solar and battery power systems.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Interestingly, in 1918 Konosuke Matsushita started what would become Panasonic with his wife and brother-in-law, Toshio Iue, who later set off on his own and founded SANYO. Today, the two companies are back in the same fold again.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Panasonic made SANYO and another company, Panasonic Electric Works, subsidiaries in April and is undergoing group-wide reorganization. In the past couple of years, Panasonic’s operating profit and net sales have dipped (both down about 15 percent from 2008 to 2009), and the company posted losses in 2009 and 2010. But the 2011 annual report shows that Panasonic is returning to black. The shutdown of nearly all of Japan’s 54 nuclear reactors (which accounts for about a third of Japan’s energy resources) after the March 11 earthquake has helped to draw greater consumer and government interest in Panasonic’s energy solutions. And the consumer-electronics giant is embracing comprehensive <a href="http://panasonic.net/green_innovation/" target="_blank">green technology</a> solutions as part of its new growth strategy.</p>
<div id="attachment_11309" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/cms/wp-content/uploads/IMGP0365scaled.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-11309" title="IMGP0365scaled" src="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/cms/wp-content/uploads/IMGP0365scaled.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="404" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Residential solar panels make up about a third of Panasonic&#39;s sales in Japan but only a slight amount in the United States. SANYO has a PVC production facility in Oregon. (By E.Q. Lam)</p></div>
<p style="text-align: justify;">SANYO adds to Panasonic’s wide-ranging technology with the latest developments in solar panels, including bifacial photovoltaic modules with <a href="http://us.sanyo.com/Solar" target="_blank">HIT technology</a> that can be mounted vertically instead of lying flat on a roof, so that sunlight hits both sides of the panels. Panasonic also acquired SANYO’s <a href="http://panasonic.net/sanyo/solarark/en/about/" target="_blank">Solar Ark</a> facility in <a href="http://panasonic.net/sanyo/solarark/en/access/" target="_blank">Gifu Prefecture</a>, Japan—a gallery, museum, lab, and community center of sorts.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">But one of the most exciting acquisitions is <a href="http://panasonic.net/sanyo/gep/index.html" target="_blank">Kasai Green Energy Park</a>, a massive testing site for large-scale, renewable power storage systems located near Osaka. “This is Panasonic’s answer to how our group will supply power,” says Fumitoshi Terashima, general manager of SANYO’s Smart Energy Systems Division. “After various tests, we set up this facility to develop the best products—safest, low cost, long life span—to meet our customer demand.”</p>
<div id="attachment_11308" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 160px"><a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/cms/wp-content/uploads/IMGP0375scaled.jpg"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-11308" title="IMGP0375scaled" src="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/cms/wp-content/uploads/IMGP0375scaled-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">HIT bifacial PVC modules are installed on the façade of the administration building. Exactly 5,200 solar panels line the entire Park facility. (By E.Q. Lam)</p></div>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The year-old Park generates, saves, and stores all of its power from a mega-solar power system (for daytime) and the world’s largest, commercial lithium-ion (li-ion) rechargeable battery power system (for night-time). The <a href="http://panasonic.net/sanyo/gep/smart-energy/index.html" target="_blank">smart energy system</a> can cut energy costs significantly; for example, in Japan the daytime energy cost is five times that of the night-time rate. The facility features a one-megawatt (MW) photovoltaic (PVC) system and 1.5 megawatt hours (MWh) and can produce 1,060 kilowatts (kW) annually. That’s enough power for 330 standard households in Japan—or, as facility tour guide Motoko Scott puts it, enough power to drive an electric vehicle to Spain. The battery system is designed to last at least 10 years using the same rechargeable batteries.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">As part of the facility’s energy management system, eight 42-inch screens are located at the main entrance to the administration building, displaying real-time visual information on energy usage throughout the Park—and translating the numbers into more meaningful quantities, such as the equivalent number of trees saved. The company combines technology with information to instill in its employees a green mindset, which Panasonic hopes transfers into eco-conscious behavior at home and elsewhere.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">SANYO concluded that li-ion batteries as ideal in comparison to lead-acid and sodium-sulphur (NaS) batteries, taking into account size, weight, lifespan, safety, and cost. The batteries have a charge/discharge efficiency of 98 percent, compared to 90 percent for NaS and 85 percent for lead-acid batteries, Terashima points out.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The li-ion power storage system is scalable for homes, schools and other buildings, and industrial use. “We can arrange or make this system from small one to large one. That&#8217;s unique about this system,” Terashima says.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Although the Kasai Green Energy Park facility has strict security, Panasonic opened its doors for a press <a href="http://panasonic.net/sanyo/gep/guide/index.html" target="_blank">tour</a> of the world&#8217;s largest use of solar and lithium-ion battery power: <p><a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/videos/green-energy-park-may-be-answer-to-power-supply/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em>For related articles, see:<br />
<a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/?p=11493" target="_blank">Novel Japanese Recycling Plant</a><br />
<a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/videos/technology-for-smart-homes-smart-cities/" target="_blank">Technology for Smart Homes, Smart Cities<br />
</a><a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/?p=10973" target="_blank">Double Energy Savings With DIY Tips and Technology<br />
</a><a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/green-news/panasonic-makes-eco-innovation-central-focus/" target="_blank">Panasonic Makes Eco Innovation Central Focus<br />
</a><a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/?p=11229" target="_blank">Exclusive Interview With Panasonic Vice President</a></em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em>Travel and accommodations provided by Panasonic Corporation.</em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em>Check out <a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/emmie-lam/" target="_blank">more articles</a> by E.Q. Lam.</em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em>© 2011 SCGH, LLC.</em></p>
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		<title>Smart Grid: Smart Idea</title>
		<link>http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/go-green/renewable-energy/the-smart-grid-ultimate-energy-solution/</link>
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		<pubDate>Mon, 07 Nov 2011 09:00:38 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Debra Atlas</dc:creator>
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		<description><![CDATA[While few consumers understand how a Smart Grid works, it has the potential to transform the way we generate energy. From the beginnings of energy-regulating grids to going open source, to getting hundreds of companies to work on refining it, this technology is growing in a way that promises to revolutionize our energy consumption. (Photo © Jean Schweitzer &#124; Dreamstime.com)]]></description>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><em>Editor’s Note: This is the first of three stories about the Smart Grid.</em></span></em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em><em>By <a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/debra-atlas/" target="_blank">Debra Atlas</a></em></em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Few consumers really understand what the Smart Grid is. Newspapers keep churning out stories about it, but these stories may leave you wondering why you should care about it. The how’s and why’s of the Smart Grid are both complex and important to understand, but let’s focus on the “what” first.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The intent of the Smart Grid is to allow utilities and consumers to monitor and adjust electrical use on a continual basis. That will involve a stable national Smart Grid and the installation of SmartMeters.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The idea of an energy-regulating grid has been around for a few years. First, the <a href="http://www.epri.com/#EPRI">Electric Power Research Institute</a> (EPRI) started <a href="http://intelligrid.epri.com/intelligrid.html#the%20IntelliGrid%20research%20project">a project</a> to use an open network to integrate data networks and equipment so that the devices and their systems could communicate. This project, which was called the <a href="http://my.epri.com/portal/server.pt?open=512&amp;objID=386&amp;mode=2#the%20IntelliGrid">IntelliGrid</a>, focused on creating the grid itself.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Around this same time, IBM was creating their <a href="http://www.ibm.com/podcasts/howitworks/#IBM%20and%20their%20Intelligent%20Utility%20Netwo">Intelligent Utility Network</a> for smart networking. It was designed to connect all parts of the utility company: its equipment, control systems, applications, and employees. This way, the network could automatically collect data from all of these sources and deliver system performance that is efficient and reliable.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://venturebeat.com/2010/03/16/grid-net-snags-austin-energy-cio-andres-carvallo/#Andres%20Carvallo">Andres Carvallo</a>, the man who coined the term “Smart Grid” in 2004, also was instrumental in its creation. Carvallo was the chief architect of <a href="http://www.eet-d.com/?page=show_article&amp;mag=60&amp;article=451#the%201st%20Smart%20Grid%20deplyed%20in%20the%20US">the first</a><a href="http://www.eet-d.com/?page=show_article&amp;mag=60&amp;article=451#the%201st%20Smart%20Grid%20deplyed%20in%20the%20US"> grid</a> to be successfully used in the United States. Both the IntelliGrid and IBM’s Network were similar, says Carvallo. He saw the need, however, for an open-source version of this network. Thus, the Smart Grid was born. It would be free and everybody could use it.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“The Smart Grid,” <a href="http://www.greentechmedia.com/articles/read/guest-post-the-past-and-future-of-smart-grid/#Carvallo%20explains%20the%20Smart%20Grid">says Carvallo</a> in a guest post, “is the integration of an electric grid, a communications network, software, and hardware to monitor, control, and manage the creation, distribution, storage, and consumption of energy. The Smart Grid of the future will be distributed, interactive, self-healing, and will reach every electric device.”</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Many consumers want to use energy more efficiently, but Carvallo says this is not why we need such a Grid. Currently, the way we are generating electricity (nuclear aside) is by burning something (wood, oil, gas, or coal) to boil water, which then creates the steam needed to turn turbines. “We have a short-term issue with not enough supply for the demand that’s coming our way,” he explains.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">In Carvallo’s latest book, <em><a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/1608071278/ref%3Dasc_df_16080712781737711/%3Ftag%3Daskcom05el-20%26creative%3D394997%26creativeASIN%3D1608071278%26linkCode%3Dasn" target="_blank">The Advanced Smart Grid: Edge Power Driving Sustainability</a></em>, he outlines two types of energy economies: the fuel-based economy and the technology-based economy where everything is energy.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Over the next 20 years, we need to transform ourselves into that new, unlimited energy economy, according to Carvallo. Energy will be abundant across the planet at an inexpensive price.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“The Smart Grid,” says Carvallo, “is a platform that enables that transformation. … Without a Smart Grid, you’ll have a hard time bringing in renewable energy to the grid regardless of where it’s created. The Grid needs to be intelligent because we need abundant energy.”</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">To break it down and look ahead at the same time, consider this scenario: If consumers suddenly demanded and were able to get the number of electric cars we wanted, we would not be able to support them all! Currently there is insufficient infrastructure nationwide to support and power that many electric cars. That is where this Grid comes in, according to Carvallo. What needs to happen next is just what happened to the Internet. It started with a few people at the university level using it, then everyone started using it.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Currently, more than 1,000 companies worldwide are working on solving the problems involved with creating the Smart Grid.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“The genie’s out of the bottle. The question isn’t if [we’ll get a Smart Grid],” he says, “[it’s] when.”</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em>Check out more articles by <a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/debra-atlas/" target="_blank">Debra Atlas</a>.</em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em>© 2011 SCGH, LLC.</em></p>
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		<title>Top 10 Tips to Lower Your Home Energy Bills</title>
		<link>http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/eco-money-saver/top-10-tips-to-lower-your-home-energy-bills/</link>
		<comments>http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/eco-money-saver/top-10-tips-to-lower-your-home-energy-bills/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 30 Oct 2011 14:00:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Janice Zaltman</dc:creator>
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		<description><![CDATA[The one question that comes up time and time again from homeowners is: “What steps can I can take to lower my home energy costs?” Here are some tips to help you look at your energy consumption and things you can easily change.]]></description>
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		<div class="ngg-imagebrowser-desc"><p>Here's a glance at where the energy bill comes from for a typical, single-family home. (Energy Star)</p></div>
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</em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em><br />
By <a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/our-writers/" target="_blank">Janice Zaltman</a><a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/our-writers/" target="_blank"> </a></em></p>
<p>In my real estate and consulting business, the one question that comes up time and time again is:<strong> </strong>&#8220;What steps can I can take to lower my home energy costs?&#8221;</p>
<p>&#8220;Ask your neighbors what they spend on their energy bill each month,&#8221; advises Ben Millar of E3 Building Sciences in Fort Myers, Florida. &#8220;If you are spending the same as everyone else with similar square footage in your neighborhood, maybe your home is okay,&#8221; he explains.</p>
<p>Once you have an idea of how your costs measure up, look at your consumption and the things that you can easily change. Here are some examples:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Lighting:</strong> Do you tend to leave the lights on when you leave the room? Keeping the home well lit can be a big concern for families with children. Luckily, there are several solutions to this issue. Energy-efficient lighting involves both the light source and the fixture. In many cases, you can simply change the light bulb to either a compact fluorescent lightbulb (CFL) or a light emitting diode (LED). Energy-efficient bulbs may require a certain type of fixture by having a pin base that cannot fit into traditional fixtures. By replacing the five most frequently used light fixtures in your home with Energy Star qualified models, you can save $70 each year, according to <a href="http://www.energystar.gov" target="_blank">energystar.gov</a>. Other solutions include occupancy sensors, which automatically shut off the lights once everyone leaves the room.</li>
<li><strong>Electronics:</strong> Do you have power strips on your high-consumption technology such as televisions, computers, stereo, or DVD player? As long as your gadgets remain attached to a power source, they are generating heat and electricity. Use a power strip switch which turns everything off when<strong> </strong>not in use.</li>
<li><strong>Program the thermostat: </strong>Give your air conditioner a break during the day. Installing a programmable thermostat can regulate the temperature throughout your house whether you are home or <span class="Apple-style-span">away.</span></li>
<li><strong>Solar water heaters:</strong> Solar water heaters can be a cost-effective way to reduce your hot water bills. They can be used in any climate, and the fuel they use (sunshine) is free.</li>
<li><strong>Give your home an update:</strong> Improve outdated home appliances for the best return on your investment. Outdated appliances can be a drain on your utility bill. When I purchased a new Energy Star refrigerator and dishwasher last year using the <a href="http://www.energystar.gov/" target="_blank">Energy Star Rebate Program</a>, my utility bill went down 40 percent.</li>
<li><strong>Heating and cooling:</strong> As much as half of your energy costs go towards heating and cooling, according to Energy Star.<strong> </strong>If you have an <a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/glossary/glossary-of-green-terms/" target="_blank">HVAC</a> system that is at least 12 years old, it may be beneficial to consider a newer and more efficient model. Changing the filter monthly and having your system checked at least once per year helps ensure energy efficiency.  Your HVAC system, like your body, needs a good tune-up each year to remain in good health.</li>
<li><strong>Weather-strip your windows:</strong> Plug up those drafts! If you have old windows and are considering changing them, check out <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Climatemapusa2.PNG" target="_blank">Energy Star windows</a> and pick one for your appropriate climate condition.</li>
<li><strong>Rebates and incentives: </strong>Check out rebates and incentives at the <a href="http://www.dsireusa.org/" target="_blank">Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency</a>. They can significantly reduce the cost of your upgrade and lower the time it takes to recoup your investment.</li>
<li><strong>Get help from the local utility:</strong> In some areas, the local utility offers a free or low-cost service to come to your home and do an energy audit.</li>
</ul>
<p>By following the above suggestions, you can save between 10 and 40 percent on your home energy bills, depending on your individual usage.</p>
<p><em>For related article:</em><br />
<em><a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/home-health/10-quick-ways-to-green-your-home/#more-5806" target="_blank">10 Quick Ways to Green Your Home </a></em></p>
<p><em>© 2011 SCGH, LLC.</em></p>
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		<title>Huge Solar Factory Coming to Colorado</title>
		<link>http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/go-green/renewable-energy/huge-new-solar-factory-coming-to-colorado/</link>
		<comments>http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/go-green/renewable-energy/huge-new-solar-factory-coming-to-colorado/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 29 Oct 2011 13:25:03 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jake Richardson</dc:creator>
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		<description><![CDATA[AURORA, CO — An exciting new solar panel factory is coming to Colorado! General Electric just announced plans to build its latest factory in Aurora. (Photo: Wikimedia Commons) ]]></description>
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		<div class="ngg-imagebrowser-desc"><p>A new GE factory in Colorado will produce solar panels. (Wikimedia Commons)</p></div>
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<p><em>By <a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/our-writers/" target="_blank">Jake Richardson<br />
</a></em><br />
AURORA, CO — General Electric has decided to <a href="http://www.bizjournals.com/denver/news/2011/10/17/new-york-state-asking-why-it-lost-ge.html" target="_blank">locate a new solar panel factory</a> near Aurora, Colorado. The company also was considering the state of New York but could not find a suitable building there and did not want to wait for a new building to be constructed. Another factor is that GE already is collaborating with Primestar Solar, which is located in Arvada, Colorado, about 20 miles away.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The new factory will require $300 million to make it fully operational, and it is scheduled to open next year.</p>
<p>The solar industry continues to grow as the cost of solar technology decreases, and this clean energy source becomes affordable and practical to both residences and businesses.</p>
<p><em>© 2011 SCGH, LLC.  </em></p>
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		<title>Solar Clovers and Gadgets Galore</title>
		<link>http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/go-green/appliances/san-joses-clean-energy-showcase/</link>
		<comments>http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/go-green/appliances/san-joses-clean-energy-showcase/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 27 Oct 2011 08:00:52 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Debra Atlas</dc:creator>
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		<description><![CDATA[SAN JOSE, CA — San Jose’s Clean Energy Showcase displays solar, wind, and electric vehicle technologies to the public from a display across City Hall. Close to 6,000 people have toured the showcase since it opened in December of last year, including local schoolchildren, Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts, and a group of Russian entrepreneurs. (Photo courtesy of the City of San Jose)]]></description>
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		<div class="ngg-imagebrowser-desc"><p>A view of the showcase, with San Jose City Hall in the background. (Courtesy of the City of San Jose)</p></div>
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</em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em><br />
Editor’s Note: This is the final piece in a four-part series looking at the environmental efforts of the city of San Jose, California.</em></em></p>
<p><em>By <a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/debra-atlas/" target="_blank">Debra Atlas</a></em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">SAN JOSE, CA — Solar installations <a href="http://www.linkedin.com/news?viewArticle=&amp;articleID=810639746&amp;gid=664267&amp;type=member&amp;item=73998286&amp;articleURL=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.baltimoresun.com%2Ffeatures%2Fgreen%2Fbs-gr-solar-20111001%2C0%2C1476208.story&amp;urlhash=AnAc&amp;goback=.gde_664267_member_73#growth of solar over the past year" target="_blank">grew</a> by 69 percent nationwide over the last year, and the City of San Jose is at the head of the race. Last year, San Jose made more solar installations than any other city in the state. The U.S. Department of Energy named San Jose one of three &#8220;Solar American Showcase&#8221; cities in 2007, and in 2008 the city was designated one of the <a href="http://solaramericacommunities.energy.gov/cities#the 25 Solar American Cities" target="_blank">25 Solar America Cities</a>.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The Solar America Cities program was created so the designated cities could share their experiences and best practices with other cities. Cities interested in using the technology more can then adapt this information to their own community. The designated cities cover different climates from around the country. It was a way to help break down barriers to this energy source, both commercial and residential, according to Mike Foster, who manages the city’s community energy efficiency and green building programs.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">San Jose has always been at the forefront of innovation, ever since it became California’s first established city in 1777, and using technology to go green came naturally. To promote public awareness of clean-tech, San Jose created the Clean Energy Showcase, which puts solar, wind, and electric vehicle (EV) technologies on display across from City Hall.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Close to 6,000 people have toured the showcase since it opened in December 2010, including groups as varied as local schoolchildren, Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts, and Russian entrepreneurs. The block-long exhibit is a hands-on demonstration area created to help educate the community about the benefits of the clean energy technology and how to save money by adopting it.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Among the various solar technologies the exhibit features are the Solar Clover by <a href="http://www.armageddonenergy.com/#Armegeddon Energy" target="_blank">Armageddon Energy</a>, a Sun Oven solar cooker that scouts use to bake their favorite cookies, and a solar heating and cooling unit reminiscent of a bay window. The Showcase is a great example of the city’s <a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/success-stories/san-jose%E2%80%99s-green-vision/" target="_blank">Green Vision Plan</a> and the possibilities it holds for the future of San Jose.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em>For related stories, see:<br />
</em><em><a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/success-stories/northern-california-city-reinvents-itself-as-green/" target="_blank">Northern California City Reinvents Itself as Green<br />
</a></em><em><a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/success-stories/san-jose%E2%80%99s-green-vision/" target="_blank">San Jose’s Green Vision<br />
</a></em><em><a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/success-stories/the-solar-power-of-san-jose/" target="_blank">The Solar Power of San Jose</a></em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em><em>Check out more articles by <a href="http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/debra-atlas/" target="_blank">Debra Atlas</a>.</em></em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em><em></em>© 2011 SCGH, LLC. </em></p>
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