http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/ Copyright Elsevier Ltd Intuitiv Ltd (www.intuitiv.net) Sun, 12 Feb 2012 03:26:28 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/_common/img/template/ref/site-logo.gif http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22799/push-and-pull-testing-wind-turbine-blades/ The world wind turbine market is set for continued growth, with the Global Wind Energy Council forecasting up to 1 TW installed by 2020 in its most optimistic scenario. As wind turbines go offshore and into more extreme environments, the demands put on their blades increase. To ensure the blades meet design requirements, they are tested – both internally and by full-scale testing facilities. We see how the testing is done and why. Thu, 09 Feb 2012 13:31:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22799/push-and-pull-testing-wind-turbine-blades/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23816/india-gets-a-solar-plant-in-100-days/ A 5 MW solar PV project has recently been commissioned in 100 days - in the Rawra village near Jodhpur, in India’s northern desert state of Rajasthan. Fri, 10 Feb 2012 12:10:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23816/india-gets-a-solar-plant-in-100-days/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23695/pv-technology-developments-2011-and-beyond/ Part three: Materials is another area where solar manufacturers are looking to improve performance and reduce costs. Wed, 08 Feb 2012 09:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23695/pv-technology-developments-2011-and-beyond/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23694/pv-technology-developments-2011-and-beyond/ Part two: The industry needs to continue to innovate and address costs, so what are the equipment manufacturers doing to address this need? Tue, 07 Feb 2012 09:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23694/pv-technology-developments-2011-and-beyond/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23669/five-reasons-to-be-pessimistic-for-solar-pv/ Not yet in full swing, the year 2012 has already hit the solar photovoltaic (PV) industry with several unpleasant reports. The discussion about a tough cap on Germany, the most important sales market, or a temporary suspension of renewable energy incentives in Spain are only two of the news items now posing challenges to the international solar PV branch. Mon, 06 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23669/five-reasons-to-be-pessimistic-for-solar-pv/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23668/restored-italian-mill-generates-power-from-micro-hydropower-scheme/ A former water mill, sited on the River Cosa at Travesio in northern Italy, has been renovated and converted into a micro hydropower scheme using the Archimedes’ screw concept. Fri, 03 Feb 2012 14:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23668/restored-italian-mill-generates-power-from-micro-hydropower-scheme/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23642/pv-technology-developments-2011-and-beyond/ Part one: despite a tough market last year, innovation in PV was alive and well. We look back at some of the developments that were making (and in some cases continue to make) the headlines... Fri, 03 Feb 2012 09:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23642/pv-technology-developments-2011-and-beyond/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23640/speeding-up-small-scale-anaerobic-digestion/ Anaerobic digestion has been cited by the UK Government as a way of reducing carbon emissions, providing energy security and generating green jobs. A new project aims to push the technology forward... Thu, 02 Feb 2012 14:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23640/speeding-up-small-scale-anaerobic-digestion/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23637/wind-turbine-blade-production-new-products-keep-pace-as-scale-increases/ Production challenges grow as wind turbines get bigger, and some blades now exceed 80 m in length. So what are some of the new products and processes being developed to meet the needs of utility-scale blade producers? Thu, 02 Feb 2012 11:47:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23637/wind-turbine-blade-production-new-products-keep-pace-as-scale-increases/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23613/could-the-renewables-industry-suffer-from-a-lack-of-scarce-metals/ It is not just in laptop computers, mobile telephones and LED screens that scarce metals are to be found but also in solar cells, batteries for mobile technologies and many other similar applications. And the rising demand for these metals increases the risk of a bottleneck in supplies... Wed, 01 Feb 2012 14:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23613/could-the-renewables-industry-suffer-from-a-lack-of-scarce-metals/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23549/corporates-venture/ Corporate venture capital could prove the vital lifeline for renewable energy developers facing an exodus of private equity investors from the market. Tue, 31 Jan 2012 09:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23549/corporates-venture/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23545/a-chinese-fortune-company-profile-of-trina-solar/ How has Trina Solar got to where it is today, and where is it going in the future, as the market becomes even more competitive, and a potential backlash against China comes into sight? Mon, 30 Jan 2012 09:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23545/a-chinese-fortune-company-profile-of-trina-solar/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23443/countdown-to-2020-can-the-uk-meet-its-renewables-targets/ Part three: What is the industry’s role in the UK’s path to15% renewables by 2020, and what happens to 2030 and beyond? Fri, 27 Jan 2012 09:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23443/countdown-to-2020-can-the-uk-meet-its-renewables-targets/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23378/how-viable-are-biofuels/ Part three: BP and Neste are looking to biofuels in the future. Thu, 26 Jan 2012 09:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23378/how-viable-are-biofuels/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23377/how-viable-are-biofuels/ Part two: Biofuels Standards. For European players, sustainability requirements add extra pressure... Wed, 25 Jan 2012 09:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23377/how-viable-are-biofuels/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23376/how-viable-are-biofuels/ Part one: With an increased focus on biofuels as an energy solution, have policy makers been too optimistic about how soon second-generation biofuels can be developed? Tue, 24 Jan 2012 09:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23376/how-viable-are-biofuels/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23379/countdown-to-2020-can-the-uk-meet-its-renewables-targets/ Part two: What are the main challenges the UK faces in reaching 15% renewables by 2020? Mon, 23 Jan 2012 09:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23379/countdown-to-2020-can-the-uk-meet-its-renewables-targets/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23211/us-blade-test-facility-to-aid-us-competitiveness/ America's first commercial large wind turbine blade test facility opened in May last year, its aim being to help the U.S. industry remain competitive with its overseas counterparts. Fri, 20 Jan 2012 09:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23211/us-blade-test-facility-to-aid-us-competitiveness/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23335/exclusive-interview-uk-minister-defends-december-12-feedin-tariff-deadline/ UK Energy Minister Charles Hendry has defended the Government's decision to slash feed-in tariff rates for solar PV from 12 December, despite the fact that it landed the Government in the High Court. Thu, 19 Jan 2012 11:24:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23335/exclusive-interview-uk-minister-defends-december-12-feedin-tariff-deadline/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23205/germany-helps-fund-indias-largest-solar-power-plant-/ One of the world’s largest solar power projects is to be built in Sakri, in the western Indian state of Maharashtra. Thu, 19 Jan 2012 09:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23205/germany-helps-fund-indias-largest-solar-power-plant-/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23298/chinese-solar-pv-equipment-suppliers-increase-marketshare/ Ambitious solar photovoltaic (PV) manufacturing capacity investments across the Asia Pacific region during 2011 have provided substantial revenue growth for local solar PV equipment suppliers, according to the latest NPD Solarbuzz PV Equipment Quarterly report. Thu, 19 Jan 2012 08:30:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23298/chinese-solar-pv-equipment-suppliers-increase-marketshare/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/19155/wind-power-200-bc-to-2010/ Wind devices date all the way back to vertical axis wind mills from the Persian-Afghanistan borders around 200 BC, to today’s efforts to develop 10 MW wind turbines... Wed, 18 Jan 2012 09:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/19155/wind-power-200-bc-to-2010/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23150/solar-in-hawaii-the-supernova-syndrome/ Hawaii has been a red hot solar success story in recent times, but can this success continue without important Federal and State incentives? Tue, 17 Jan 2012 13:32:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23150/solar-in-hawaii-the-supernova-syndrome/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23203/countdown-to-2020-can-the-uk-meet-its-renewables-targets/ Part one: In the last days of 2011 the UK government submitted its first report to the European Union, detailing progress towards its 2020 renewables targets. So is it on the right path to achieving its legally binding targets? Tue, 17 Jan 2012 09:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23203/countdown-to-2020-can-the-uk-meet-its-renewables-targets/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23144/renewable-energy-project-monitor/ November/December: Our regular column, written by the Energy Industries Council, reports on project development in the renewable energy marketplace... Mon, 16 Jan 2012 09:36:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23144/renewable-energy-project-monitor/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23129/what-is-the-outlook-for-solar-pv-in-2012-/ In the first of a regular series of articles, Paula Mints looks at the outlook for Solar PV moving forward, as we leave behind a turbulent 2011… Fri, 13 Jan 2012 09:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23129/what-is-the-outlook-for-solar-pv-in-2012-/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23037/renewable-power-generation-2010-figures/ Special report. Part eight: Ocean and tidal power transition continues... Thu, 12 Jan 2012 09:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23037/renewable-power-generation-2010-figures/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23039/renewable-power-generation-2010-figures/ Special report. Conclusion: how much renewable electricity capacity was installed worldwide at the end of 2010, and which technologies were the most popular? Thu, 12 Jan 2012 09:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23039/renewable-power-generation-2010-figures/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23035/offshore-coup-china-style/ Despite some high profile WTO successes for the West, China plans to dominate its offshore wind sector in the long term. Wed, 11 Jan 2012 09:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23035/offshore-coup-china-style/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23029/renewable-power-generation-2010-figures/ Special report. Part seven: Geothermal power makes stuttering progress... Tue, 10 Jan 2012 09:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23029/renewable-power-generation-2010-figures/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23033/company-profile-3ms-new-facility-tests-solar-products-/ With a range of products designed to help improve solar module performance, the addition of a new all-weather testing facility will help ensure 3M and its customers can bring more efficient products to market faster, the company tells Joyce Laird. Mon, 09 Jan 2012 09:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23033/company-profile-3ms-new-facility-tests-solar-products-/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23011/renewable-power-generation-2010-figures/ Special report. Part six: Setting the scene for biomass... Fri, 06 Jan 2012 09:47:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/23011/renewable-power-generation-2010-figures/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22993/book-review-daniel-yergin-the-quest/ In his new book, Daniel Yergin can't quite fully support wind, but tries hard. Thu, 05 Jan 2012 13:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22993/book-review-daniel-yergin-the-quest/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22992/renewable-power-generation-2010-figures/ Special report. Part five: Solar CSP – strong 2010, but at a crossroads... Wed, 04 Jan 2012 09:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22992/renewable-power-generation-2010-figures/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22991/renewable-power-generation-2010-figures/ Special report. Part four: Solar (PV) hit the heights in 2010 despite market concerns... Tue, 03 Jan 2012 09:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22991/renewable-power-generation-2010-figures/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22887/comment-unlikely-coalition-recommends-changes-to-ontarios-feedin-tariff/ Renewable energy advocates and a solar industry trade group filed a joint submission on December 14, 2011 as part of the province of Ontario's scheduled two-year review of its groundbreaking feed-in tariff (FIT) programme. Mon, 02 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22887/comment-unlikely-coalition-recommends-changes-to-ontarios-feedin-tariff/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22880/renewable-power-generation-2010-figures/ Special report. Part three: Wind market achieves steady year in 2010... Sat, 31 Dec 2011 10:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22880/renewable-power-generation-2010-figures/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22881/windpower-2011-revisited-innovation-in-wind/ One of the trends at this year's Windpower 2011 event in Anaheim, California was a heavy emphasis on new technology – as well as the continuing debate about how to make wind a more reliable and grid-friendly source of power. Fri, 30 Dec 2011 14:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22881/windpower-2011-revisited-innovation-in-wind/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22869/renewable-power-generation-2010-figures/ Special report. Part two: Hydropower remained top of the renewable league table in 2010... Fri, 30 Dec 2011 10:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22869/renewable-power-generation-2010-figures/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22873/wind-power-poised-for-a-busy-year-five-trends-to-watch-in-2012/ A big year is in store for the U.S. wind power industry in 2012, both in the policy arena and out in the field... Fri, 30 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22873/wind-power-poised-for-a-busy-year-five-trends-to-watch-in-2012/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22829/renewable-power-generation-2010-figures/ Special report. Part one: how much renewable electricity capacity was installed worldwide at the end of 2010, and which technologies were the most popular? Thu, 29 Dec 2011 10:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22829/renewable-power-generation-2010-figures/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22858/us-wind-year-in-review/ The American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) has established a tradition of taking a look back in December at the events that shaped the year in wind power. Here is their 2011 offering. Wed, 28 Dec 2011 11:33:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22858/us-wind-year-in-review/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22857/obituary-brian-robertson/ The CEO of Amonix passed away on 22 December 2011. Wed, 28 Dec 2011 11:22:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22857/obituary-brian-robertson/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22827/building-wind-farms/ Part two: when it comes to offshore wind farms, while the basic steps are the same on the surface, the actual construction is quite different... Wed, 28 Dec 2011 10:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22827/building-wind-farms/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22825/building-wind-farms/ Part one: the precarious construction phase of a wind farm development needs careful preparation. Fri, 23 Dec 2011 10:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22825/building-wind-farms/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22833/uk-industry-wins-latest-solar-salvo/ A solar industry campaign to slow down government-planned cuts to solar subsidies in the UK has won a significant legal victory, but what does this mean for the industry? Thu, 22 Dec 2011 13:21:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22833/uk-industry-wins-latest-solar-salvo/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22748/solar-pv-in-perspective-2011/ Part five: While part four of this mini series showed that film technology has found times tough of late, crystalline silicon is expected to be the mainstay PV technology for some time to come. Thu, 22 Dec 2011 10:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22748/solar-pv-in-perspective-2011/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22746/comment-could-asia-have-its-own-supergrid/ By 2050, Asia could be connected by a massive energy and information architecture, believes Stewart Taggart. Wed, 21 Dec 2011 10:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22746/comment-could-asia-have-its-own-supergrid/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22739/comment-putting-the-case-for-wind/ In light of the recent criticisms of wind power, Rick Eggleston, managing director of REpower's UK operation has his say. Tue, 20 Dec 2011 09:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22739/comment-putting-the-case-for-wind/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22649/solar-pv-in-perspective-2011/ Part four: for thin film technology it has been a thin line between its popularity - and subsequent talk of its demise. Just three years back, it was projected to be heading towards dominion over silicon. Instead, it finds itself stalled at around 10% of the market... Mon, 19 Dec 2011 09:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22649/solar-pv-in-perspective-2011/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22648/wind-power-in-german-forests-technical-case-study/ As hub heights of wind turbines increase, new sites such as forests are becoming more attractive. Important technological and geophysical features must however be taken into account – together with ensuring the accuracy of data – as this case study from Germany shows. Fri, 16 Dec 2011 09:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22648/wind-power-in-german-forests-technical-case-study/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22623/wave-and-tidal-establishes-presence-in-the-us-/ There are few contexts in which the U.S. can be described as a minnow, but in terms of exploiting wave and tidal energy it is – for the moment. George Marsh looks at the sector as it tries to establish a foothold in the states. Thu, 15 Dec 2011 10:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22623/wave-and-tidal-establishes-presence-in-the-us-/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22620/solar-pv-in-perspective-2011/ Part three: Describing the relationship between supply and demand in the solar photovoltaic (PV) industry is no mean feat – especially when the industry does not follow the rules. Wed, 14 Dec 2011 10:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22620/solar-pv-in-perspective-2011/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22625/latest-webinar-sustainability-in-bioenergy/ The latest Refocus webinar is now online, and makes for fascinating listening. Register here (free of charge) to listen. Tue, 13 Dec 2011 12:18:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22625/latest-webinar-sustainability-in-bioenergy/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22527/solar-pv-in-perspective-2011/ Part two: No time to panic - a solar history lesson Tue, 13 Dec 2011 10:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22527/solar-pv-in-perspective-2011/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22624/latest-white-paper-download-saving-resources-through-active-energy-efficiency/ This white paper from Schneider Electric argues strongly that meeting greenhouse gas emissions targets set within the Kyoto Protocol will fail - unless Active Energy Efficiency becomes compulsory... Tue, 13 Dec 2011 10:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22624/latest-white-paper-download-saving-resources-through-active-energy-efficiency/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22512/solar-pv-in-perspective-2011/ Part one: Paula Mints looks at the background of the great solar squeeze, pre Solyndra. Mon, 12 Dec 2011 09:22:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22512/solar-pv-in-perspective-2011/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22511/renewable-energy-in-the-developing-world-case-studies/ Accolades like the Ashden Awards for Sustainable Energy raise the profile of community energy schemes in the developing world. We look at a few of those that impressed the judges this year. Fri, 09 Dec 2011 15:46:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22511/renewable-energy-in-the-developing-world-case-studies/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22502/smart-grid-will-raise-ceiling-for-use-of-renewables/ The EU wants electricity distribution systems that can utilise more solar and wind energy – and 16 European partners from 10 countries are now playing a key role in preparing for them. Thu, 08 Dec 2011 10:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22502/smart-grid-will-raise-ceiling-for-use-of-renewables/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22499/uk-latest-fit-cut-timing-provoked-outrage-across-the-board/ Since the UK Government went public with its decision to slash subsidies for Solar PV – setting a cut off date of 12 December for the old tariff level – the repercussions continue to reverberate around the industry with a legal challenge now underway. Wed, 07 Dec 2011 09:49:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22499/uk-latest-fit-cut-timing-provoked-outrage-across-the-board/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22497/analysis-us-itc-backs-solarworlds-dumping-action/ Fierce competition in the solar industry between China and the U.S. has taken a further step closer to becoming an all-out trade war, after the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) concurred with the CASM that China has a dumping case to answer. Mon, 05 Dec 2011 13:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22497/analysis-us-itc-backs-solarworlds-dumping-action/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22493/could-the-solar-industry-help-greeces-woes/ Thinking about Greece used to create a picture of a summer holiday spent on the beach in the sun, sailing the steady winds of the Meltemi in the Cyclades. But today the country is intent on becoming the energy hub of Southeast Europe. So should the financial troubles facing it put off potential investors? Fri, 02 Dec 2011 12:23:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22493/could-the-solar-industry-help-greeces-woes/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22492/renewable-energy-project-monitor/ September/October: Our monthly column, written by the Energy Industries Council, reports on project development in the renewable energy marketplace. Thu, 01 Dec 2011 09:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22492/renewable-energy-project-monitor/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22106/finance-for-wind-farms/ When it comes to financing a wind farm there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Tailoring the right funding structure for a wind development depends on where in the world you plan to build, what scale of project you have in mind, and whether it's a purely private or community endeavour. Thu, 17 Nov 2011 13:15:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/22106/finance-for-wind-farms/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/21860/the-challenge-of-wind-turbine-blade-repair/ WITH A growing number of composite wind turbine blades now in service, rotor blade maintenance is becoming a major issue. George Marsh looks at the techniques used to inspect and repair blades, and experiences first hand a new system designed to speed up the repair process. Mon, 07 Nov 2011 12:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/21860/the-challenge-of-wind-turbine-blade-repair/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/21829/greening-the-appalachians/ A GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION system (GIS) has been developed as a first step towards an integrated support system, which will study the impact of investments in renewable energy. It is being used in the greater southern Appalachian U.S. mountain region, which currently gets over 83% of its energy from coal. Fri, 04 Nov 2011 12:38:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/21829/greening-the-appalachians/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/21761/comment-singapore-conference-documents-asias-leadership-on-climate-change/ The 4th Singapore International Energy Week (SIEW) was opened by a key-note speech of H.E. S. Iswaran, Minister in the Prime Minister's Office and Second Minister for Trade and Industry of Singapore. The Minister outlined Singapore's focus on the clean energy industry as a key growth area, which is expected to attract clean energy companies to set up their operations in Singapore, encourage research and development and test-bedding in clean energy technologies, create 7000 jobs and contributing AU$1.4 billion to GDP by 2015. Wed, 02 Nov 2011 12:21:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/21761/comment-singapore-conference-documents-asias-leadership-on-climate-change/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/21739/scaling-clean-energy-innovation/ Clean technology is one of the great global opportunities of the 21st century, but how is technology innovation being harnessed? Tue, 01 Nov 2011 13:49:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/21739/scaling-clean-energy-innovation/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/21660/perspective-system-output-must-improve/ Following SPI2011, four experts – including Argonne National Laboratory’s Mark Petrie and Dr. Seth B. Darling - volunteer their insight on the state of play in solar. Fri, 28 Oct 2011 12:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/21660/perspective-system-output-must-improve/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/21412/advertorial-lubricants-can-make-a-big-difference/ FOR WIND turbine operators, choosing the right lubricants can make a big difference. Michael Hawkins, global brand manager for ExxonMobil's Mobil SHC brand of synthetic lubricants details how ExxonMobil's flagship lubricants and application expertise is helping the wind energy sector to expand and become more cost competitive. Fri, 21 Oct 2011 10:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/21412/advertorial-lubricants-can-make-a-big-difference/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/21401/movers-and-shakers-10-companies-to-watch-in-the-solar-space/ Innovation is happening in all stages of the solar value chain. We look at 10 companies to watch in the solar space. Thu, 20 Oct 2011 10:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/21401/movers-and-shakers-10-companies-to-watch-in-the-solar-space/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/21400/partner-in-solar-power/ Part two: Whilst the micro-inverter revolution looks set to spread, central and string inverters remain the mainstream. Wed, 19 Oct 2011 10:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/21400/partner-in-solar-power/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/21399/remote-controlling-wind/ The increase in wind power coming onto the grid has seen network operators get much tougher on generators. Tue, 18 Oct 2011 10:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/21399/remote-controlling-wind/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/21396/sunshot-solar-pvs-falling-costs/ Part 3. In the final part of our series covering the U.S. Department of Energy's (DoE) SunShot-US$1/W program, balance of system (BOS) costs – are addressed. Mon, 17 Oct 2011 10:50:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/21396/sunshot-solar-pvs-falling-costs/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/20715/comment-pna-ports-getting-ready-for-offshore-wind/ Ports of Normandy Authority (PNA) is getting ready to support the European offshore wind power industry. Wed, 14 Sep 2011 08:30:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/20715/comment-pna-ports-getting-ready-for-offshore-wind/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/20383/fighting-the-nimby-war-with-a-gamble/ THE COST of owning or operating an onshore wind project of 5 MW or more in England has just risen by a minimum of £5000 a year, or £100,000–125,000 over the average 20–25 year lifespan of an onshore wind farm. Why? At the instigation of the industry itself. Mon, 05 Sep 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/20383/fighting-the-nimby-war-with-a-gamble/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/20381/all-hands-to-the-heat-pump/ GROUND SOURCE heat pump systems are being installed in a wide variety of applications, from individual homes to district energy systems. Fri, 02 Sep 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/20381/all-hands-to-the-heat-pump/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/20380/california-the-green-state/ By signing SB X 1-2 into law, Governor Jerry Brown has marked a new milestone in California’s electricity history, turning the state into a deeper shade of green. Thu, 01 Sep 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/20380/california-the-green-state/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/20379/the-biofuel-generation-gap/ Turning from 1st generation biofuels produced from food crops to 2nd generation biofuels produced from ligno-cellulosic feedstocks has been praised by many, but 2nd generation has a long way to go to reach full commercialisation. Wed, 31 Aug 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/20379/the-biofuel-generation-gap/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/20377/could-gasification-power-cars/ New and improved energy from waste technologies such as advanced gasification are going to be essential if many countries are to address their considerable waste problems. Advanced gasification can reduce the amount of waste going to landfill, as well as maximise the renewable energy produced. Tue, 30 Aug 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/20377/could-gasification-power-cars/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/19294/new-materials-tackle-weight-strength-and-cure-time-issues-for-wind-turbine-blades/ Bernd Hoevel, Senior R&D Manager, and Alain Sagnard, Senior R&D Engineer, at the Dow Chemical Company, describe how the company's foam core material and epoxy resin systems can help manufacture lighter, stronger wind turbine blades. Mon, 29 Aug 2011 15:49:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/19294/new-materials-tackle-weight-strength-and-cure-time-issues-for-wind-turbine-blades/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/20376/case-study-lao-pdr-runs-hybrid-mini-grid/ Sunlabob, a rural energy provider in Laos (located in Southeast Asia, and surrounded by Thailand, Myanmar, China, Vietnam, and Cambodia) has developed a hybrid mini grid which feeds 105 households with a daily peak load of 8kW. Mon, 29 Aug 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/20376/case-study-lao-pdr-runs-hybrid-mini-grid/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/20297/switched-on-to-mini-grids/ A BILLION AND a half people around the world still don't have access to electricity. Could hybrid mini grids be the best way to provide electricity – particularly to rural, often isolated, areas? Fri, 26 Aug 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/20297/switched-on-to-mini-grids/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/20288/uk-are-we-heading-for-a-nuclear-future/ The renewable energy industry is mulling over the announcements coming out of the UK regarding what seem on the surface to be ambitious emissions reduction targets. But what does it actually mean for renewable energy? Thu, 25 Aug 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/20288/uk-are-we-heading-for-a-nuclear-future/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/20257/can-uk-lead-the-world-on-reducing-climate-change/ THE UK is to put in place the most ambitious targets on greenhouse gas reduction of any developed country, with the Government saying it will halve carbon dioxide emissions by 2025. Wed, 24 Aug 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/20257/can-uk-lead-the-world-on-reducing-climate-change/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/19497/sunshot-solar-pvs-falling-costs/ Part 2: With its SunShot program, the Department of Energy (DoE) has greatly expanded the reach past the one goal of a delivered US$1/W of solar power by 2017. Tue, 23 Aug 2011 08:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/19497/sunshot-solar-pvs-falling-costs/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/20207/ernst-young-find-fixed-feedin-tariffs-attractive-/ The British arm of giant financial consultant Ernst & Young's 2011 issue of its "Renewable energy country attractiveness indices" concludes that fixed feed-in tariffs (FiTs) are preferable to premium-based FiTs as well as bidding systems. Mon, 22 Aug 2011 09:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/20207/ernst-young-find-fixed-feedin-tariffs-attractive-/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/18553/core-material-reduces-cost-and-weight-of-longer-wind-turbine-blades/ Fred Stoll, Chief Engineer, WebCore Technologies LLC, explains how TYCOR® W core material is helping wind turbine blade designers reduce the cost and weight of bigger blades while giving operations managers improved quality. Mon, 01 Aug 2011 14:33:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/18553/core-material-reduces-cost-and-weight-of-longer-wind-turbine-blades/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/19438/technology-agnostic-solar-pv/ Based at Dow's European headquarters in Seneffe, Belgium, vice president Eric Peeters is on a mission to drive down the cost of solar power. Mon, 01 Aug 2011 10:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/19438/technology-agnostic-solar-pv/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/19395/sunshot-solar-pvs-falling-costs/ Part 1: In the U.S., the DoE is pioneering research in order to reduce the cost of installed PV to below a dollar-per-Watt by 2017. Wed, 20 Jul 2011 10:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/19395/sunshot-solar-pvs-falling-costs/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/19394/partner-in-solar-power/ Part one: Solar PV modules would be of little use was it not for an electronic box of tricks that is normally out of sight and out of mind - the inverter. Tue, 19 Jul 2011 10:11:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/19394/partner-in-solar-power/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/18954/meeting-the-challenge-of-wind-turbine-blade-repair/ With a growing number of composite wind turbine blades now in service, rotor blade maintenance is becoming a major issue. George Marsh looks at the techniques used to inspect and repair blades and investigates a new system designed to speed up the repair process. Mon, 18 Jul 2011 15:49:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/18954/meeting-the-challenge-of-wind-turbine-blade-repair/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/19367/vestas-engel-we-believe-the-gearbox-is-the-best-solution/ David Hopwood speaks to Vestas' CEO Ditlev Engel. Mon, 18 Jul 2011 10:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/19367/vestas-engel-we-believe-the-gearbox-is-the-best-solution/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/19365/generation-innovation-for-wind-turbines/ Part two: We continue our focus on cost reduction in wind energy, and ask some major innovators in the sector where we are heading for in the major markets. Sat, 16 Jul 2011 10:11:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/19365/generation-innovation-for-wind-turbines/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/19362/keep-the-wind-turbine-blades-turning/ Equipment and product innovation plays a vital role in the financial viability of wind power. But industry players should also share understanding of key O&M issues. Fri, 15 Jul 2011 10:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/19362/keep-the-wind-turbine-blades-turning/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/19361/spotlight-on-due-diligence-for-wind-power/ The more cautious lending environment means wind projects will only get off the ground once they pass the scrutiny of some major due diligence investigations. Thu, 14 Jul 2011 10:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/19361/spotlight-on-due-diligence-for-wind-power/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/19187/uk-electricity-market-reform-nuclear-funding-from-thin-air/ As the public reels from the impact of seemingly never-ending fuel price rises, the UK Government seems to be on the way to pulling off a conjuring trick of shifting incentives towards nuclear and away from renewables, without hardly a whimper of opposition. And despite the tragedy at the Fukushima Dai-ichi nuclear plant in Japan, unlike in countries such as Germany there is no cast iron guarantee that the UK will seriously water down its future nuclear ambitions. Wed, 13 Jul 2011 10:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/19187/uk-electricity-market-reform-nuclear-funding-from-thin-air/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/19338/comment-new-italian-solar-pv-tariffs-are-complex-and-robust/ Despite last minute mixed-signals by the Berlusconi Government, it now appears that Italian solar photovoltaic (PV) tariffs for the remainder of 2011 and 2012 are fixed. Tue, 12 Jul 2011 14:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/19338/comment-new-italian-solar-pv-tariffs-are-complex-and-robust/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/19186/uk-uturn-on-renewable-energy/ Clean Energy investment in the United Kingdom dropped by 70% in 2010, and the nation's position among G-20 leaders fell from fifth in 2009 to 13th, according to new research released by The Pew Charitable Trusts. Tue, 12 Jul 2011 10:00:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/19186/uk-uturn-on-renewable-energy/ http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/19185/wind-powers-community-service/ The Introduction of the Community Benefit Protocol in the UK could make a significant difference to communities close to proposed wind farms. So how does this work, and could it be a model adopted by other countries? Mon, 11 Jul 2011 10:12:00 GMT http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com/view/19185/wind-powers-community-service/