Researchers able to dramatically increase solar panel efficiency

Solar energy is an integral part of our renewable energy game plan. Yet as useful as solar is, their efficiency has always seemed incredibly low. Who would consider 15-25 percent “good” if it were your electricity delivery?

Geothermal use could grow over 300 percent in the U.S.

According to a new report, some 6,442 megawatts worth of new geothermal energy are projected to come into operation in the next few years, more than doubling their current levels.

California currently leads the US with more than 2,605 MW in capacity. The next closest is Nevada at 448 MW. No other state  has more than 50 MW.

 

A number of states have geothermal projects under development.

There is, however, an important question to consider. With the continually dropping water table, what is the real future of the capacity of geothermal over the long run?

EPA ranks San Jose-Santa Clara in top 20 for green power

The U.S. EPA has recognized San Jose-Santa Clara among the top 20 partners across the country in their Green Power Partnership for generating the most green electricity onsite.

The San Jose-Santa Clara Pollution Control Plant – one of 8 California organizations to be recognized by the EPA – generates 56 percent green power from biogas.

Green power – from renewable resources such as solar, wind, geothermal, biomass, biogas, and low-impact hydropower – generates less pollution than conventional power and produces no net increase in greenhouse gas emissions. The EPA’s Green Power Partnership works with over 1,100 partner organizations – Fortune 500 companies,  local, state and federal governments, and a growing number of colleges and universities – to voluntarily purchase green power to reduce the environmental impacts of conventional electricity use.

Once again, San Jose-Santa Clara County have raised the bar for their commitment to sustainability. Wonder what they’ll do next?