Photovoltaic Systems

Archive for the ‘Energy Efficiency’ Category

Building transmission to accommodate utility-scale renewable energy generation in the U.S. is seen as essential by much of the renewable energy industry. But can it be justified? Doing so will necessarily involve constructing some of the longest stretches of wire ever undertaken in this country. Much of the best wind and solar resource is located quite distant from the load. Ultimately, thousands of miles of huge power lines will have to be built. It is not illogical to ask whether investment in such massive infrastructure “costs too much and provides too little.” It is also not illogical to answer “no,” not if the value proposition is laid out appropriately and a well crafted policy and regulatory approach can be established that effectively addresses the issues.

Building transmission to accommodate utility-scale renewable energy generation in the U.S. is seen as essential by much of the renewable energy industry. But can it be justified? Doing so will necessarily involve constructing some of the longest stretches of wire ever undertaken in this country. Much of the best wind and solar resource is located quite distant from the load. Ultimately, thousands of miles of huge power lines will have to be built. It is not illogical to ask whether investment in such massive infrastructure “costs too much and provides too little.” It is also not illogical to answer “no,” not if the value proposition is laid out appropriately and a well crafted policy and regulatory approach can be established that effectively addresses the issues.

At CES 2012, Wireless Glue Networks launched its second-generation in-home display called SmartLook.  SmartLook provides direct wireless access to smart meters with real-time information and is “The World’s First Refrigerator Magnet In-home Display,” according to Wireless Glue Networks.  SmartLook relays pricing information so homeowners can learn what saves energy and money at the same time.  It also stores historical usage and pricing information.  NRG Energy has a booth at CES showcasing the display; keep an eye out for something like this through your local electricity provider.

[+] More about SmartLook by Wireless Glue Networks.

Credit: Wireless Glue Networks.

Related Articles on JetsonGreen.com:

1. New App Provides Basic Energy Use Data
2. GE Nucleus: Home Energy Manager
3. Pilot Users Satisfied with Energy Displays

On December 16th I wrote: “My favorites for a strong 2012 include AONE, MXWL, AXPW.OB, ZBB, JCI, ENS, ACPW and XIDE. They all merit serious attention from investors who want exposure to the energy storage sector.” Since then four of my favorites have bottomed and turned sharply higher while the Pride of Palo Alto endures a short circuit. The following table compares today’s closing prices with the December 16th closing prices for those five companies.