Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Monday, October 24, 2011
Pictures: The NFL Makes a Play for Renewable Energy
Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia (Planned)
Illustration courtesy SolarBlue and Philadelphia Eagles
When the Philadelphia Eagles announced their plan to ring Lincoln Financial Field with eighty 20-foot (6-meter) vertical wind turbines last fall, the manufacturer heralded the project's "strong iconic appeal." "Renewable energy can also look like a piece of art," said Scott Weinbrandt, then chief executive of Helix Wind of Poway, California, in a press release the company put out after the artistic renderings of the project appeared on Monday Night Football last November.
But Helix Wind said in its most recent quarterly report to investors that it is $47 million in debt and has insufficient capital and personnel to fulfill orders and Weinbrandt, no longer at the helm, is now suing the company for breach of contract.
The Eagles would not detail the reasons for delay in their plan to make their stadium energy self-sufficient, announced in November 2010. "I know the project is still a go," said Zeiger, the team spokesman. "The goal is to get as independent on energy as we can be."
Under the venture, as originally unveiled, the Eagles contracted with SolarBlue, of Orlando, Florida, to install the wind turbines and about 2,500 solar panels in a bid to make the facility "the world's first major sports stadium to convert to self-generated renewable energy," as the company says in a release on its website. The $30 million project also included a 7.6-megawatt cogeneration plant, which could run-according to NRDC-on biodiesel or natural gas. The team and SolarBlue said the project would provide more than 1 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity over the next 20 years, more than enough to meet the stadium's needs.
The Eagles, whose "Go Green" slogan is a play on the team's primary color, have been working on environmental issues for years with Hershkowitz and the NRDC. Under team owner Jeffrey Lurie, they have reduced energy consumption at the stadium by 50 percent and spearheaded a major recycling program.
But the Eagles' energy plan included at least one risky technology choice. "Small wind turbines are more expensive and produce less energy relative to their size than big turbines," says wind energy expert Paul Gipe, an industry consultant. "This is a limitation of the physics." Not only such rooftop installations less cost effective, they typically get less wind than anticipated because the building itself interferes with the air flow, he says.
Neither the Eagles nor SolarBlue would respond to further telephone messages or emails regarding the project, leaving the venture's current status as uncertain as who will win this season's Super Bowl.
Sunday, October 16, 2011
The Top Ten Apps To Make You More Green Love the new iTunes section of green apps!
There’s an app for being green, and by an app, I mean a slew of apps. These iPhone apps range from offering general sustainability tips and games to store and product directories.
A lot of green apps focus on offering general tips for everyday actions you can take to help make a difference, which really doesn’t take advantage of the iPhone’s capabilities. Below are the top ten green apps across a range of applications, some of which could help you save money in addition to living on the greener side of the fence.
1. If you need ideas for how to be more green, try Green Genie. iTunes ($0.99) The app suggests more than 100 projects to tackle, like bringing your own grocery bags when you go shopping or reducing your company’s paper usage.
The app includes a glossary of green terms and has a library of “essential reading” on sustainability. For those who want to dive deeper, it also lists recommended websites and green organizations.
Another useful feature of the app is its plastics directory, which helps you understand what the number 5 on your yogurt container means, and why it’s may not be recyclable in your area.
Green Genie allows you to submit project ideas, and the database continues to grow as more people pitch in. This is definitely one of the most social, interactive green apps available.
2. GoodGuide iTunes (free) showcases sustainable products and features a bar code scanner to check an item’s environmental impact before buying it.
GoodGuide’s mission is to become the best information source for products’ and companies’ environmental, health and social impacts. Its database has more than 70,000 ratings in categories ranging from personal care to toys.
If a product catches your eye, you can add it to a shopping list within the app, and if you discover that your favorite deodorant doesn’t live up to your environmental standards, you can make note of that, too. GoodGuide is a TechCrunch50 alum.
3. Carbon Tracker iTunes (free) uses GPS to calculate your carbon footprint based on how much your travel. You can chart your carbon emission changes by month and set goals to decrease them.
The app factors emission for planes, train and automobiles, as well as a few other vehicles. It also allows you to switch between miles and kilometers, in case you need to emit carbon abroad.
4. Green Outlet iTunes ($2.99) tries to predict your electric bill and carbon footprint based on what appliances you use. To get started, you find the types of appliances you have (microwave? PlayStation?) and approximate how many hours per day you use each one.
The app will estimate your electric bill and carbon footprint for the month. You can also see a breakdown of how much each appliance is costing you.
If you exceed the U.S. Government’s recommended carbon limits, the app will warn you and give you the option to purchase carbon offsets.
5. Green Gas Saver iTunes (free) tracks your driving habits and warns you through gauges and sounds if you accelerate too quickly or take a turn too hard. The app saves your score from each trip to help you improve over time. It’s a good way to become a better driver overall, in addition to saving on fuel costs. It uses the accelerometer to detect sharp turns, but if may also GPS to constantly calculate how fast you are going, which could make it a battery hog.
6. Find Green iTunes (free) points you to nearby sustainable businesses. There are a few apps that focus on local food, but Find Green can also point you to other categories, like wellness, office and landscaping. It also lets you select distance by type of transportation, so you can choose whether to bring groceries home by foot, bike or car. You can also submit green businesses you know of to the database.
7. Get Green iTunes ($0.99) offers relevant green tips by tailoring them to the season. Getting advice on keeping your house draft-free is less relevant in summer, as are gardening tips in winter. Most of the “green tips” apps available offer randomized advice that are often pointless or laughable in the wrong weather. Get Green is the best of the bunch for being smart about the context and timing of the tips it offers.
8. Green Me is designed for list-maker types. It iTunes ($1.99) displays a calendar and asks you to list five “green” things you’ve done each day. The built-in calendar is then marked with a shade of green correlated to how many things you did to be sustainable. The more accomplishments you list, the darker the green for that date. It’s a handy way of tracking how diligent you’ve been over time with a little game mechanics thrown in.
9. Green Charging iTunes ($0.99) makes your phone vibrate and sound an alarm when it’s fully charged to save energy. It also displays how much talk time you have at your current battery level. This app is handy because phones and other devices can use up a significant amount of energy even when they’re no longer charging. Unplugging electronics when you’re not using them is a good green habit to develop, and this app can help you get into it.
If you ever goofed off in math class by playing Drug Wars on your graphing calculator, you might enjoy Green Wars iTunes ($1.99, or free for the lite version). It’s a green twist on the classic buy low/sell high game.
In the original game, you deal drugs, but in Green Wars your inventory is packed with things like reusable shopping bags and hybrid cars. I know, it’s not as fun, but if you can forgive that it can be an engaging game.
Your goal is to buy cheap green products, travel to a different area in the game, and try to sell them at a profit. Loans are available to buy more items, and once you start earning, you can deposit your bounty to start earning interest.
It won’t make you more green directly, but it might help you keep those green thoughts front and center.
Many other green apps exist that encourage sustainability, but some things still have to be done manually. Separating and taking out the recycling or turning the compost? No, there’s still no app for that.
A lot of green apps focus on offering general tips for everyday actions you can take to help make a difference, which really doesn’t take advantage of the iPhone’s capabilities. Below are the top ten green apps across a range of applications, some of which could help you save money in addition to living on the greener side of the fence.
1. If you need ideas for how to be more green, try Green Genie. iTunes ($0.99) The app suggests more than 100 projects to tackle, like bringing your own grocery bags when you go shopping or reducing your company’s paper usage.
The app includes a glossary of green terms and has a library of “essential reading” on sustainability. For those who want to dive deeper, it also lists recommended websites and green organizations.
Another useful feature of the app is its plastics directory, which helps you understand what the number 5 on your yogurt container means, and why it’s may not be recyclable in your area.
Green Genie allows you to submit project ideas, and the database continues to grow as more people pitch in. This is definitely one of the most social, interactive green apps available.
2. GoodGuide iTunes (free) showcases sustainable products and features a bar code scanner to check an item’s environmental impact before buying it.
GoodGuide’s mission is to become the best information source for products’ and companies’ environmental, health and social impacts. Its database has more than 70,000 ratings in categories ranging from personal care to toys.
If a product catches your eye, you can add it to a shopping list within the app, and if you discover that your favorite deodorant doesn’t live up to your environmental standards, you can make note of that, too. GoodGuide is a TechCrunch50 alum.
3. Carbon Tracker iTunes (free) uses GPS to calculate your carbon footprint based on how much your travel. You can chart your carbon emission changes by month and set goals to decrease them.
The app factors emission for planes, train and automobiles, as well as a few other vehicles. It also allows you to switch between miles and kilometers, in case you need to emit carbon abroad.
4. Green Outlet iTunes ($2.99) tries to predict your electric bill and carbon footprint based on what appliances you use. To get started, you find the types of appliances you have (microwave? PlayStation?) and approximate how many hours per day you use each one.
The app will estimate your electric bill and carbon footprint for the month. You can also see a breakdown of how much each appliance is costing you.
If you exceed the U.S. Government’s recommended carbon limits, the app will warn you and give you the option to purchase carbon offsets.
5. Green Gas Saver iTunes (free) tracks your driving habits and warns you through gauges and sounds if you accelerate too quickly or take a turn too hard. The app saves your score from each trip to help you improve over time. It’s a good way to become a better driver overall, in addition to saving on fuel costs. It uses the accelerometer to detect sharp turns, but if may also GPS to constantly calculate how fast you are going, which could make it a battery hog.
6. Find Green iTunes (free) points you to nearby sustainable businesses. There are a few apps that focus on local food, but Find Green can also point you to other categories, like wellness, office and landscaping. It also lets you select distance by type of transportation, so you can choose whether to bring groceries home by foot, bike or car. You can also submit green businesses you know of to the database.
7. Get Green iTunes ($0.99) offers relevant green tips by tailoring them to the season. Getting advice on keeping your house draft-free is less relevant in summer, as are gardening tips in winter. Most of the “green tips” apps available offer randomized advice that are often pointless or laughable in the wrong weather. Get Green is the best of the bunch for being smart about the context and timing of the tips it offers.
8. Green Me is designed for list-maker types. It iTunes ($1.99) displays a calendar and asks you to list five “green” things you’ve done each day. The built-in calendar is then marked with a shade of green correlated to how many things you did to be sustainable. The more accomplishments you list, the darker the green for that date. It’s a handy way of tracking how diligent you’ve been over time with a little game mechanics thrown in.
9. Green Charging iTunes ($0.99) makes your phone vibrate and sound an alarm when it’s fully charged to save energy. It also displays how much talk time you have at your current battery level. This app is handy because phones and other devices can use up a significant amount of energy even when they’re no longer charging. Unplugging electronics when you’re not using them is a good green habit to develop, and this app can help you get into it.
If you ever goofed off in math class by playing Drug Wars on your graphing calculator, you might enjoy Green Wars iTunes ($1.99, or free for the lite version). It’s a green twist on the classic buy low/sell high game.
In the original game, you deal drugs, but in Green Wars your inventory is packed with things like reusable shopping bags and hybrid cars. I know, it’s not as fun, but if you can forgive that it can be an engaging game.
Your goal is to buy cheap green products, travel to a different area in the game, and try to sell them at a profit. Loans are available to buy more items, and once you start earning, you can deposit your bounty to start earning interest.
It won’t make you more green directly, but it might help you keep those green thoughts front and center.
Many other green apps exist that encourage sustainability, but some things still have to be done manually. Separating and taking out the recycling or turning the compost? No, there’s still no app for that.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Friday, April 22, 2011
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Just Right offers new Solar Roofing systems
04/09/2010
CertainTeed Powers New Generation of Roofing Products with EnerGen Photovoltaic Solar Roofing System
(Valley Forge, Pa.) – CertainTeed Corporation is powering a new generation of green, sustainable energy solutions with the introduction of the EnerGenTM Photovoltaic Solar Power Roofing System at the 2010 International Roofing Expo in New Orleans. Unlike other photovoltaic (PV) systems on the market, EnerGen is specifically designed with building professionals and conventional roofing contractors in mind offering ease of installation and vastly improved aesthetics for homeowners.
The EnerGen system features integrated UNI-SOLAR® thin-film laminates, the world leader in flexible solar modules, that seamlessly integrate with traditional asphalt roofing shingles. The system’s lightweight design requires no rooftop penetrations, making it easier for contractors to install while maintaining roof deck integrity. The laminates lie flush with the remainder of the traditional roofing shingles, providing a streamlined, visually appealing appearance. By providing a more aesthetically pleasing, unobtrusive roof plane with no roof penetrations, the product overcomes the largest objection to the acceptance of solar panels.
“Photovoltaics continue to gain momentum as the world’s fastest growing energy technology,” says Guillaume Texier, president of CertainTeed Roofing. “Through the development of EnerGen, a lightweight, easy-to-install system, we are helping building professionals and roofing contractors expand their product offering and seize new opportunities for growth.”
The EnerGen system is offered in pre-engineered kits containing all components necessary for installation. Its flexible design allows it to be customized to meet a home’s specific energy needs and environmental conditions. EnerGen’s versatility makes it perfect for residential remodeling or new construction projects.
“CertainTeed is transforming a niche technology into a product that is more accessible to the building industry and, therefore, a broader range of homeowners,” adds Texier. “EnerGen is the first step in what will be a comprehensive portfolio of photovoltaic roofing products for residential and commercial applications.”
For more information, visit JustRightatHome.com
CertainTeed Powers New Generation of Roofing Products with EnerGen Photovoltaic Solar Roofing System
(Valley Forge, Pa.) – CertainTeed Corporation is powering a new generation of green, sustainable energy solutions with the introduction of the EnerGenTM Photovoltaic Solar Power Roofing System at the 2010 International Roofing Expo in New Orleans. Unlike other photovoltaic (PV) systems on the market, EnerGen is specifically designed with building professionals and conventional roofing contractors in mind offering ease of installation and vastly improved aesthetics for homeowners.
The EnerGen system features integrated UNI-SOLAR® thin-film laminates, the world leader in flexible solar modules, that seamlessly integrate with traditional asphalt roofing shingles. The system’s lightweight design requires no rooftop penetrations, making it easier for contractors to install while maintaining roof deck integrity. The laminates lie flush with the remainder of the traditional roofing shingles, providing a streamlined, visually appealing appearance. By providing a more aesthetically pleasing, unobtrusive roof plane with no roof penetrations, the product overcomes the largest objection to the acceptance of solar panels.
“Photovoltaics continue to gain momentum as the world’s fastest growing energy technology,” says Guillaume Texier, president of CertainTeed Roofing. “Through the development of EnerGen, a lightweight, easy-to-install system, we are helping building professionals and roofing contractors expand their product offering and seize new opportunities for growth.”
The EnerGen system is offered in pre-engineered kits containing all components necessary for installation. Its flexible design allows it to be customized to meet a home’s specific energy needs and environmental conditions. EnerGen’s versatility makes it perfect for residential remodeling or new construction projects.
“CertainTeed is transforming a niche technology into a product that is more accessible to the building industry and, therefore, a broader range of homeowners,” adds Texier. “EnerGen is the first step in what will be a comprehensive portfolio of photovoltaic roofing products for residential and commercial applications.”
For more information, visit JustRightatHome.com
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Helix Wind Turbine Renderings As Part of Philadelphia Eagles Renewable Energy Project As Shown on Monday Night Football - 80 Helix Wind Turbines planned to be installed on top of Lincoln Financial Field
Poway, CA – November 29, 2010 – Helix Wind, Corp. (OTCBB: HLXW), a global renewable energy company confirmed today what many people saw and heard discussed on Monday Night Football were actual renderings of Helix Wind turbines lining the top of Lincoln Financial Field. In cooperation with Solar Blue, the official energy provider of the Philadelphia Eagles, the two companies are in the concept and design phase for the wind portion of the renewable energy plan. The energy plan will be operational by September 2011. Additional information will follow.
Scott Weinbrandt, Chairman, CEO & President of Helix Wind said, “We are confident that Helix Wind vertical axis turbines will meet the renewable energy needs for electrical wind generation required for such a large project while adding a strong iconic appeal to Lincoln Financial Field. Renewable energy can also look like a piece of art and Helix Wind turbines do just that.”
About Helix: Helix Wind, Corp., a global renewable energy company is engaged in the design, manufacturing and sales of small wind vertical axis turbines designed to generate 300W, 1kW, 2.0kW, and 4.5kW of clean, renewable electricity. Additional information can be found at www.helixwind.com.
Forward Looking Statements: A number of statements contained in this press release are forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable federal securities laws, including, without limitation, anything relating or referring to future financial results and plans for future business development activities, and are thus prospective. These forward-looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties, including our ability to attract and retain management and field personnel with experience in the small wind turbine industry, our ability to raise capital when needed and on acceptable terms and conditions, our ability to secure adequate capital and project purchase order with Solar Blue, the ability of our wind turbines to perform and handle the energy needs of our customers, the intensity of competition and general economic factors. The actual results Helix Wind may achieve could differ materially from any forward-looking statements due to such risks and uncertainties. Helix Wind encourages the public to read the information provided here in conjunction with its most recent filings, which may be viewed at www.sec.gov.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
BE AWARE
ENERGY CHOICE
BE AWARE. As a sustainability/energy consultant I feel it's my moral obligation to spread info and help the environment. There are many companies soliciting power for energy choice (your choice to choose an electric supplier). Many of the companies don't quote an "all in rates" so there are hidden charges many times. Others have contracts and cancellation fees. They buy power on the open market at the cheapest rate from fossil fuel driven companies. If anyone wants "Green" power that is cheaper with no contract or if you have any questions about what your options are feel free to contact me. I represent several companies that already exceed the alternative power mandates and provide power with purpose. HELP THE ENVIRONMENT AND EVEN SAVE SOME MONEY!
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Save an extra 10% on top of an average of 15% on your electric starting Monday 11/22/2010 with NO contract
Welcome to Viridian! I am so excited to welcome you to Viridian Energy. Viridian offers customers a simple and powerful product - greener energy at affordable prices. I am thrilled to be a part of a company that empowers its customers to save money AND help the environment. How is this possible? The deregulation of energy has allowed customers the opportunity to choose their electricity supplier. Switch your energy supplier today in just minutes on my site and you are on your way to a cleaner, more affordable energy for your home or small business. My power is Viridian.
Enrollment is fast and easy. It only takes a few minutes of your time and no one has to come to your house to set anything up. Just make sure you have your latest utility bill handy when you click or call to sign up.
- No Enrollment Fee
- No Cancellation Fee
- Cancel Service at Any Time
Thursday, November 18, 2010
NFL's Eagles to be energy self-sufficient
Sports: The NFL's Philadelphia Eagles Go Green
The team announced today that it will be installing 2,500 solar panels, 80 20-ft high wind turbines and a generator that runs on natural gas and biodiesel, making its home park Lincoln Financial Field the first stadium capable of generating all of its own electricity.
Read more: http://ecocentric.blogs.time.com/2010/11/18/sports-the-nfls-philadelphia-eagles-go-green/#ixzz15fYACNrf
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Monday, November 8, 2010
JUST RIGHT GREEN LIVING
Just Right Inc is taking "Green" in the right direction. We post discussions on how to be green in your home and business, everything from tips to construction to affordable green solutions. Please join us in our vision. People more and more understand the need for a more environmentally friendly world but wait for society to spell it out for them. Many myths surround this way of doing things. There are many Easy, Cost effective "Green" solutions you can go RIGHT NOW so we can speed up the process of restoring our planet. Join us here or on Facebook to raise awareness and see how we can help you with a natural way of life.
Monday, November 1, 2010
VIRIDIAN The Cheaper/Greener choice
Making a difference doesn't have to break the budget. You can help the environment and save money at the same time.
A Higher Standard
In order to promote an increased usage of renewable energy and the development of renewable products, many states have adopted Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS). An RPS is a statewide benchmark for the percentage of electricity that must come from green, renewable energy sources such as wind and solar. Continued development of renewable resources is largely driven by the adoption of these standards. As many states continue to work toward green energy solutions and higher renewable standards, Viridian is proud to lead the way with our commitment to a minimum standard of 20% green energy in all our markets.
Learn more about Renewable Portfolio Standards from EPA.gov
How does "green energy" work?
To help facilitate the sale of renewable electricity nationally, a system was established that separates renewable electricity generation into two parts: the electricity produced by a renewable generator and the renewable "attributes" of that generation. These renewable attributes are sold separately as renewable energy certificates (RECs). One REC is issued for each megawatt-hour (MWh) unit of renewable electricity produced. Buying RECs helps build a market for renewable electricity and contributes to environmental sustainability.
Learn more about Renewable Energy Certificates from EPA.gov
What's so great about being green?
By purchasing Viridian products, customers will support currently available renewable resources as well as aid the development of new renewable resources to be built in the U.S. As a company we love to track the collective reduction in carbon emissions from our family of customers. As we all work together making simple choices we can contribute to the reduction of global pollution and together we can make a difference.
In addition to feeling better about your contribution to our world, there are many widespread benefits of greener standards. Some of these benefits include:
- Environmental improvement
- Increased diversity and security of energy supply
- Lower natural gas prices
- Reduced volatility of power prices
- Local economic development
How "Green" Are Viridian's Products?
Viridian offers two products so customers can choose the green standard that is best for their lifestyle. All Viridian products adhere to the highest quality standards in the industry.
Our Everyday Green product is our most popular product and offers a 20% renewable energy option that feels good for the conscience and the budget. For the more environmentally conscious customer, our Green-E certified Pu
Sunday, October 31, 2010
JUST 22 More days til you can go GREEN and save money doing it.
NOV 22 you can go GREEN and save money while doing it. Now an addition 10% on top of the already lower electricity rate!!!
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Brazil government gives go-ahead for huge Amazon dam.http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-latin-america-11101842
Monday, June 21, 2010
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