Renewable Energy Stocks Sector Close-Up; Renewable Energy and Green Stocks up on Obama Optimism
Overall Markets Up Monday on Obama’s Planned Infrastructure Spending
POINT ROBERTS, WA —December 9, 2008 -- www.RenewableEnergyStocks.com,
a leading investor news and research portal for the renewable energy sector within Investorideas.com, presents a sector close-up on renewable energy and green stocks following a general rally in the market Monday, incited by President-elect Obama’s discussion on the weekend of proposed significant infrastructure spending moving forward.
President-elect Obama has aggressive plans for the greentech and tech sectors as well, which has investors looking at the stocks with renewed optimism. According to www.change.gov, The Obama-Biden New Energy for America plan has goals to “create five million new jobs by strategically investing $150 billion over the next ten years to catalyze private efforts to build a clean energy future.”
Energy and Environment http://change.gov/agenda/energy_and_environment_agenda/
Renewable Energy Stocks solar expert, J. Peter Lynch noted,” I think that solar stocks have moved to an extremely oversold position and certain companies (ones with management, strong cash positions and some form of product differentiation) will be positioned to take advantage of the long range planning of the Obama administration in the area of renewables.”
Sector Close-Up as of Trading December 8, 2008:
The WilderHill Clean Energy Index (^ECO) was up $ 6.99 (8.48%). ECO was the first Index for clean renewable energy and has since become a benchmark Index for the sector. http://www.wildershares.com/.
The First Trust Global Wind Energy (FAN) ETF was up $ 0.90 (8.08%) and the Claymore/MAC Global Solar Energy (TAN) was up 0.4537 (6.11%). The Claymore ETF (TAN) tracks the MAC Global Solar Energy Index (^SUNIDX) that was up 6.61 % on the day.
Akeena Solar Inc. (NASDAQ:AKNS) was up over 4%.
Archer-Daniels-Midland Co. (NYSE:ADM) (Market, News) was up$ 0.98 (3.79%).
Clean Energy Fuels Corp. (NASDAQ:CLNE) (Market, News) was up $ 0.26 (5.32%).
Evergreen Solar Inc (NASDAQ:ESLR) (Market, News) closed with gains of $0.18 (7.29%).
First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ: FSLR) (Market, News) closed up $6.30 (4.90%).
SunPower Corporation (SPWRA) (Market, News ) closed up $ 2.19 (6.70%).
Suntech Power Holdings Co. Ltd. (STP) (Market, News) closed up $1.54 (18.12%).
Yingli Green Energy (YGE) (Market, News) ended the day up $0.76 (17.47%).
For investors following solar stocks, the RenewableEnergyStocks.com website provides a comprehensive list of photovoltaic and solar stocks to research.
http://www.investorideas.com/Companies/RenewableEnergy/Stock_List.asp
Featured Showcase Renewable Energy Stocks:
XsunX Inc. : (OTCBB: XSNX) Based in Aliso Viejo, Calif., XsunX is developing amorphous silicon thin film photovoltaic (TFPV) solar cell manufacturing processes to produce TFPV solar modules. To deliver its products the Company has begun to build a multi- megawatt TFPV solar module production facility in the United States to meet the growing demand for solar cell products used in large scale commercial projects, utility power fields, and other on-grid applications. Employing a phased roll out of production capacity, it plans to grow manufacturing capacities to over 100 megawatts by 2010. More info on XsunX, Inc. can be found on our media profile at: http://www.investorideas.com/co/xsnx/default.asp or http://www.xsunx.com/
OriginOil, Inc: (OTCBB: OOIL)
OriginOil, Inc. is developing a breakthrough technology that will transform algae, the most promising source of renewable oil, into a true competitor to petroleum. Much of the world's oil and gas is made up of ancient algae deposits. Today, our technology will produce "new oil" from algae, through a cost-effective, high-speed manufacturing process. This endless supply of new oil can be used for many products such as diesel, gasoline, jet fuel, plastics and solvents without the global warming effects of petroleum. Other oil producing feedstock such as corn and sugarcane often destroy vital farmlands and rainforests, disrupt global food supplies and create new environmental problems. Our unique technology, based on algae, is targeted at fundamentally changing our source of oil without disrupting the environment or food supplies. www.originoil.com.
Carbon Sciences, Inc. (OTCBB: CABN)
Carbon Sciences, Inc. is developing a breakthrough technology to transform carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions into the basic fuel building blocks required to produce gasoline, diesel fuel, jet fuel and other portable fuels. Innovating at the intersection of chemical engineering and bio-engineering disciplines, we are developing a highly scalable biocatalytic process to meet the fuel needs of the world. Company Showcase Profile page: http://www.investorideas.com/co/cabn/
About Our Green Investor Portals:
www.RenewableEnergyStocks.com® is one of several green investor portals within Investorideas.com and provides investors with stock news, exclusive articles and financial columnists, audio interviews, investor conferences and a directory of stocks within the renewable energy sector.
Become an Investorideas.com Member
Gain Exclusive Insight on Leading Sectors, Global Trends, and Insider Trading Ideas, News, Articles and Investor Ideas Members only Restricted Content including the complete renewable energy stocks directory .Learn more: - click here http://www.investorideas.com/membership/
Disclaimer: Our sites do not make recommendations. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. We attempt to research thoroughly, but we offer no guarantees as to the accuracy of information presented. All Information relating to featured companies is sourced from public documents and/ or the company and is not the opinion of our web sites. This site is currently compensated by featured companies, news submissions and online advertising. Disclosure: www.InvestorIdeas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp
Compensation disclosure for XSNX, CABN and OOIL:
http://www.investorideas.com/About/News/Clientspecifics.asp
For more information contact:
Dawn Van Zant 800.665.0411
Email: dvanzant@investorideas.com,
Source: RenewableEnergyStocks.com, XsunX, OriginOil, Inc, Carbon Sciences, Inc
Get insight into cleantech and renewable energy stocks with news and the cleantech and climate change podcast. This blog is part of www.investorideas.com cleantech investor content .
Tuesday, December 09, 2008
Monday, December 08, 2008
Green Government Facility Named Canada's Solar Project of the Year
Green Government Facility Named Canada's Solar Project of the Year
Carmanah receives CanSIA Award for "Jean Canfield Building" Solar Power System
VICTORIA, BC, CANADA December 8, 2008- Carmanah Technologies Corporation (TSX:CMH) today received the CanSIA "Solar PV Project of the Year Award" for a grid-tied solar power system installed on the Jean Canfield Building in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. In accepting the award at the Canadian Solar Industries Association (CanSIA) conference in Toronto earlier today, Carmanah CEO Ted Lattimore expressed his thanks on behalf of the entire project team, and commented on the global shift towards using renewable energy technology to create healthier and more efficient environments in which to live and work.
At the Jean Canfield Building's grand opening celebration this spring, the Department of Public Works and Government Services Canada had declared the 500-person facility "one of the most environmentally friendly buildings ever constructed by the Government of Canada." Complementing the building's impressive list of environmental technologies and design efficiencies, the Carmanah grid-tied solar power system uses a 636-square meter rooftop array to generate up to 111,000 watts of electrical power from the sun's energy. A web-based interface displays key system information -- including the amount of energy produced and greenhouse gases avoided -- online (www.solarforbuildings.com) and on a display screen in the lobby.
As a complement to the building's primary electricity supply, the grid-tie solar power system offsets the amount of power drawn from the grid and helps keep monthly power bills low, all while reducing the building's dependency on the electrical utility. According to Ron St. Onge, project manager with Public Works and Government Services Canada, the grid-tie solar power system supplies approximately 8-10% of the building's electrical requirements, helping to keep demand, and electricity bills, under control. "It requires virtually zero maintenance, and aside from monitoring electrical production, it's self sufficient," said St. Onge.
The CanSIA solar conference is held annually to help highlight opportunities, programs and achievements within the solar industry. For more information, visit CanSIA at www.cansia.ca, or visit Carmanah at www.carmanah.com.
About Carmanah Technologies CorporationAs one of the most trusted names in solar technology, Carmanah has earned a reputation for delivering strong and effective products for industrial applications worldwide. Industry proven to perform reliably in some of the world's harshest environments, Carmanah solar LED lights and solar power systems provide a durable, dependable and cost effective energy alternative. Carmanah is a publicly traded company, with common shares listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol "CMH". For more information, visit carmanah.com
Investor RelationsRoland Sartorius, Chief Financial OfficerToll-Free: 1.877.722.8877 investors@carmanah.com Media Relations David DaviesTel: +1.250.382.4332
ddavies@carmanah.com
This release may contain forward-looking statements. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "expects," "plans," "estimates," "intends," "believes," "could," "might," "will" or variations of such words and phrases. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of Carmanah to be materially different from any future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. These statements are based on management's current expectations and beliefs and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties which are described under the caption "Note Regarding Forward-looking Statements" and "Key Information - Risk Factors" and elsewhere in Carmanah's Annual Report for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2007, as filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. The risk factors identified in Carmanah's Annual Report are not intended to represent a complete list of factors that could affect Carmanah. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Carmanah does not assume any obligation to update the forward-looking information contained in this press release.
Carmanah receives CanSIA Award for "Jean Canfield Building" Solar Power System
VICTORIA, BC, CANADA December 8, 2008- Carmanah Technologies Corporation (TSX:CMH) today received the CanSIA "Solar PV Project of the Year Award" for a grid-tied solar power system installed on the Jean Canfield Building in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. In accepting the award at the Canadian Solar Industries Association (CanSIA) conference in Toronto earlier today, Carmanah CEO Ted Lattimore expressed his thanks on behalf of the entire project team, and commented on the global shift towards using renewable energy technology to create healthier and more efficient environments in which to live and work.
At the Jean Canfield Building's grand opening celebration this spring, the Department of Public Works and Government Services Canada had declared the 500-person facility "one of the most environmentally friendly buildings ever constructed by the Government of Canada." Complementing the building's impressive list of environmental technologies and design efficiencies, the Carmanah grid-tied solar power system uses a 636-square meter rooftop array to generate up to 111,000 watts of electrical power from the sun's energy. A web-based interface displays key system information -- including the amount of energy produced and greenhouse gases avoided -- online (www.solarforbuildings.com) and on a display screen in the lobby.
As a complement to the building's primary electricity supply, the grid-tie solar power system offsets the amount of power drawn from the grid and helps keep monthly power bills low, all while reducing the building's dependency on the electrical utility. According to Ron St. Onge, project manager with Public Works and Government Services Canada, the grid-tie solar power system supplies approximately 8-10% of the building's electrical requirements, helping to keep demand, and electricity bills, under control. "It requires virtually zero maintenance, and aside from monitoring electrical production, it's self sufficient," said St. Onge.
The CanSIA solar conference is held annually to help highlight opportunities, programs and achievements within the solar industry. For more information, visit CanSIA at www.cansia.ca, or visit Carmanah at www.carmanah.com.
About Carmanah Technologies CorporationAs one of the most trusted names in solar technology, Carmanah has earned a reputation for delivering strong and effective products for industrial applications worldwide. Industry proven to perform reliably in some of the world's harshest environments, Carmanah solar LED lights and solar power systems provide a durable, dependable and cost effective energy alternative. Carmanah is a publicly traded company, with common shares listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol "CMH". For more information, visit carmanah.com
Investor RelationsRoland Sartorius, Chief Financial OfficerToll-Free: 1.877.722.8877 investors@carmanah.com Media Relations David DaviesTel: +1.250.382.4332
ddavies@carmanah.com
This release may contain forward-looking statements. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "expects," "plans," "estimates," "intends," "believes," "could," "might," "will" or variations of such words and phrases. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of Carmanah to be materially different from any future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. These statements are based on management's current expectations and beliefs and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties which are described under the caption "Note Regarding Forward-looking Statements" and "Key Information - Risk Factors" and elsewhere in Carmanah's Annual Report for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2007, as filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. The risk factors identified in Carmanah's Annual Report are not intended to represent a complete list of factors that could affect Carmanah. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Carmanah does not assume any obligation to update the forward-looking information contained in this press release.
Better Place Plugs First Charge Spot to Electric Car
Better Place Plugs First Charge Spot to Electric Car
Better Place Unveils Design and Deployment of Charging Spot and Electric Parking Lots in Israel
Moshe Kaplinsky, CEO of Better Place Israel: “This is another stage in the fulfillment of the electric vehicle vision. By the end of this year, we will install approximately 800 charging spots within the pilot.”
TEL AVIV, Israel - Dec 8, 2008 - Better Place Israel, which is deploying the world’s first nationwide network for charging electric vehicles, today demonstrated for the first time its charging spot plugged in and charging an electric car in Israel. The company unveiled its first plugged in parking lots as well as the charging spot design that will be used in deployments around the world.
Better Place Israel CEO Moshe Kaplinsky displayed the first electric parking lot in Israel today at the Cinema City parking lot in Pi-Glilot. He showcased the charging spots and the charging process of the electric vehicle. Several months ago, the company announced the beginning of the pilot planning in Israel that will constitute the first deployment for the Better Place infrastructure in the world.
The company started the network deployment pilot in Israel with several municipalities including Tel Aviv, Haifa, Kefar Sava, Holon, and Jerusalem, and it plans to continue to deploy the network in public places in these cities.
With the pilot, the company has signed an agreement with "Ahuzat Hof's" parking lots while it also simultaneously finished infrastructure deployment in other areas including the Bazel parking lot, Europe house, Axelrod and the IBM corporate campus.
In every parking lot, charging spot infrastructure has been planned and implemented. The deployment included production planning of electricity board installation and deployment of electric cables from the board to the charging spot, with emphasize on safety, quality and the electric network reliability.
The charging spot is part of the Better Place electric car charging infrastructure. The Better Place infrastructure includes charging spots, battery exchange stations and a service control center that plans the energy consumption of the car and the whole system.
The Better Place charging spots have been developed in Israel with the cooperation of "Nekuda D.M designing and technology Israel". During the development of the charging spot, Better Place evaluated a number of strategic criteria including: safety, user experience, mass deployment ability, maintenance, cost, and the need to blend the charging spot with the urban view.
The charging spot that has been developed in Israel, complies with international standards and is destined to be deployed in Israel, Denmark, Australia, Californian, Hawaii and in other countries where Better Place will deploy its infrastructure.
The Better Place charging spot has been designed by San Francisco-based strategic design agency, “New Deal Design.” The charge spot is designed to be compact and to blend in with the environment. It includes a friendly connector that has been developed and designed by Better Place. It complies with the international standards and is characterized in a material that helps the connection act to be accessible and convenient to use.
Tal Agassi, director of infrastructure products and international deployment development for Better Place, said: “In designing and deploying the charge spot, our top priority is the driver’s experience. We set out to design a user friendly and simple charging experience for the user that will encourage drivers to switch from the pump to the plug.”
In every electric car on the network, Better Place will install its operating system, which serves as the intelligence for the car and the network. The system centralizes the energy consumption of the car and helps the driver to plan an intelligent destination path so that the car always has enough power and more to get to and from a destination.
The Better Place software in the car is connected to the service control center, which is designed to provide information and solutions for driving destinations in real time. The control center centralizes the energy consumption, regulates the different demands, and produces an energy consumption plan that is fitted to each car.
Better Place Israel CEO Moshe Kaplinsky said, “The progress of the company in the implementation of this project is the proof that the vision of the transition to a mass use of electric vehicles is becoming reality. Today marks a significant milestone in the process and it is happening in Israel.”
“We are glad for the cooperation with the ministries, the municipalities, the electric company, the owners of the parking lots and large corporate companies. This cooperation derives from the fact that the economic, environmental and national importance of moving to electric vehicles and off oil-based transportation is being widely recognized in Israel and around the world.”
About Better Place
Better Place is a mobility operator that aims to reduce oil dependence by delivering personal transportation as a sustainable service. Launched in 2007 with $200 million of venture funding, the company builds electric-vehicle networks powered by renewable energy to give consumers an affordable, sustainable alternative for personal mobility. Better Place is working with partners to build its first standards-based networks in Israel, Denmark, Australia and California. Better Place will activate networks on a country-by-country basis with initial deployments beginning in 2010.
Contacts Debby CommunicationsAya Achimeir+972-52-8748746/ +972-3-5683000aya@debby.co.il
Better Place Unveils Design and Deployment of Charging Spot and Electric Parking Lots in Israel
Moshe Kaplinsky, CEO of Better Place Israel: “This is another stage in the fulfillment of the electric vehicle vision. By the end of this year, we will install approximately 800 charging spots within the pilot.”
TEL AVIV, Israel - Dec 8, 2008 - Better Place Israel, which is deploying the world’s first nationwide network for charging electric vehicles, today demonstrated for the first time its charging spot plugged in and charging an electric car in Israel. The company unveiled its first plugged in parking lots as well as the charging spot design that will be used in deployments around the world.
Better Place Israel CEO Moshe Kaplinsky displayed the first electric parking lot in Israel today at the Cinema City parking lot in Pi-Glilot. He showcased the charging spots and the charging process of the electric vehicle. Several months ago, the company announced the beginning of the pilot planning in Israel that will constitute the first deployment for the Better Place infrastructure in the world.
The company started the network deployment pilot in Israel with several municipalities including Tel Aviv, Haifa, Kefar Sava, Holon, and Jerusalem, and it plans to continue to deploy the network in public places in these cities.
With the pilot, the company has signed an agreement with "Ahuzat Hof's" parking lots while it also simultaneously finished infrastructure deployment in other areas including the Bazel parking lot, Europe house, Axelrod and the IBM corporate campus.
In every parking lot, charging spot infrastructure has been planned and implemented. The deployment included production planning of electricity board installation and deployment of electric cables from the board to the charging spot, with emphasize on safety, quality and the electric network reliability.
The charging spot is part of the Better Place electric car charging infrastructure. The Better Place infrastructure includes charging spots, battery exchange stations and a service control center that plans the energy consumption of the car and the whole system.
The Better Place charging spots have been developed in Israel with the cooperation of "Nekuda D.M designing and technology Israel". During the development of the charging spot, Better Place evaluated a number of strategic criteria including: safety, user experience, mass deployment ability, maintenance, cost, and the need to blend the charging spot with the urban view.
The charging spot that has been developed in Israel, complies with international standards and is destined to be deployed in Israel, Denmark, Australia, Californian, Hawaii and in other countries where Better Place will deploy its infrastructure.
The Better Place charging spot has been designed by San Francisco-based strategic design agency, “New Deal Design.” The charge spot is designed to be compact and to blend in with the environment. It includes a friendly connector that has been developed and designed by Better Place. It complies with the international standards and is characterized in a material that helps the connection act to be accessible and convenient to use.
Tal Agassi, director of infrastructure products and international deployment development for Better Place, said: “In designing and deploying the charge spot, our top priority is the driver’s experience. We set out to design a user friendly and simple charging experience for the user that will encourage drivers to switch from the pump to the plug.”
In every electric car on the network, Better Place will install its operating system, which serves as the intelligence for the car and the network. The system centralizes the energy consumption of the car and helps the driver to plan an intelligent destination path so that the car always has enough power and more to get to and from a destination.
The Better Place software in the car is connected to the service control center, which is designed to provide information and solutions for driving destinations in real time. The control center centralizes the energy consumption, regulates the different demands, and produces an energy consumption plan that is fitted to each car.
Better Place Israel CEO Moshe Kaplinsky said, “The progress of the company in the implementation of this project is the proof that the vision of the transition to a mass use of electric vehicles is becoming reality. Today marks a significant milestone in the process and it is happening in Israel.”
“We are glad for the cooperation with the ministries, the municipalities, the electric company, the owners of the parking lots and large corporate companies. This cooperation derives from the fact that the economic, environmental and national importance of moving to electric vehicles and off oil-based transportation is being widely recognized in Israel and around the world.”
About Better Place
Better Place is a mobility operator that aims to reduce oil dependence by delivering personal transportation as a sustainable service. Launched in 2007 with $200 million of venture funding, the company builds electric-vehicle networks powered by renewable energy to give consumers an affordable, sustainable alternative for personal mobility. Better Place is working with partners to build its first standards-based networks in Israel, Denmark, Australia and California. Better Place will activate networks on a country-by-country basis with initial deployments beginning in 2010.
Contacts Debby CommunicationsAya Achimeir+972-52-8748746/ +972-3-5683000aya@debby.co.il
Tuesday, December 02, 2008
Renewable Energy Stocks Showcases, Carbon Sciences, Inc. (OTCBB: CABN), Currently Developing Biocatalytic Technology for Transforming CO2 Emissions in
Renewable Energy Stocks Showcases, Carbon Sciences, Inc. (OTCBB: CABN), Currently Developing Biocatalytic Technology for Transforming CO2 Emissions into Fuels
POINT ROBERTS, WA --December 2, 2008 www.RenewableEnergyStocks.com, a leading investor news and research portal for the renewable energy sector within Investorideas.com, announces new featured showcase company Carbon Sciences, Inc.(OTCBB:CABN), a company developing biocatalytic technology to transform carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions into the basic fuel building blocks required to produce gasoline, diesel fuel, jet fuel and other portable fuels.
Derek McLeish, CEO Carbon Sciences recently commented regarding President-elect Obama's New Energy for America plan, “The timing for our technology couldn't be better and we look forward to the highly anticipated legislative changes next year in support of renewable energy technology."
Company Showcase Profile page: http://www.investorideas.com/co/cabn/
Recent CNN article: http://www.cnn.com/2008/TECH/science/10/08/co2.fuel/
Popular Mechanics Article: http://www.popularmechanics.com/science/earth/4274541.html
About Carbon Sciences, Inc. (OTCBB: CABN)
Carbon Sciences, Inc. is developing a breakthrough technology to transform carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions into the basic fuel building blocks required to produce gasoline, diesel fuel, jet fuel and other portable fuels. Innovating at the intersection of chemical engineering and bio-engineering disciplines, we are developing a highly scalable biocatalytic process to meet the fuel needs of the world.
About InvestorIdeas.com: One of the first online investor resources providing in-depth information on renewable energy, greentech and water sectors.
Become an Investorideas.com Member
Gain Exclusive Insight on Leading Sectors, Global Trends, and Insider Trading Ideas, News, Articles and the complete renewable energy stocks directory.
Learn more: - click here http://www.investorideas.com/membership/
Disclaimer: Our sites do not make recommendations, but offer information portals to research news, articles, stock lists and recent research. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. All Information relating to featured companies is sourced from public documents and/ or the company and is not the opinion of our web sites. This site is currently compensated by featured companies, news submissions and online advertising. Disclosure: CABN is a featured showcase company and compensates Investor Ideas $4000 month www.InvestorIdeas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp
For more information contact:
Investorideas.com
Dawn Van Zant 800.665.0411
Email: dvanzant@investorideas.com,
Source: RenewableEnergyStocks.com, Carbon Sciences, Inc.
POINT ROBERTS, WA --December 2, 2008 www.RenewableEnergyStocks.com, a leading investor news and research portal for the renewable energy sector within Investorideas.com, announces new featured showcase company Carbon Sciences, Inc.(OTCBB:CABN), a company developing biocatalytic technology to transform carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions into the basic fuel building blocks required to produce gasoline, diesel fuel, jet fuel and other portable fuels.
Derek McLeish, CEO Carbon Sciences recently commented regarding President-elect Obama's New Energy for America plan, “The timing for our technology couldn't be better and we look forward to the highly anticipated legislative changes next year in support of renewable energy technology."
Company Showcase Profile page: http://www.investorideas.com/co/cabn/
Recent CNN article: http://www.cnn.com/2008/TECH/science/10/08/co2.fuel/
Popular Mechanics Article: http://www.popularmechanics.com/science/earth/4274541.html
About Carbon Sciences, Inc. (OTCBB: CABN)
Carbon Sciences, Inc. is developing a breakthrough technology to transform carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions into the basic fuel building blocks required to produce gasoline, diesel fuel, jet fuel and other portable fuels. Innovating at the intersection of chemical engineering and bio-engineering disciplines, we are developing a highly scalable biocatalytic process to meet the fuel needs of the world.
About InvestorIdeas.com: One of the first online investor resources providing in-depth information on renewable energy, greentech and water sectors.
Become an Investorideas.com Member
Gain Exclusive Insight on Leading Sectors, Global Trends, and Insider Trading Ideas, News, Articles and the complete renewable energy stocks directory.
Learn more: - click here http://www.investorideas.com/membership/
Disclaimer: Our sites do not make recommendations, but offer information portals to research news, articles, stock lists and recent research. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. All Information relating to featured companies is sourced from public documents and/ or the company and is not the opinion of our web sites. This site is currently compensated by featured companies, news submissions and online advertising. Disclosure: CABN is a featured showcase company and compensates Investor Ideas $4000 month www.InvestorIdeas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp
For more information contact:
Investorideas.com
Dawn Van Zant 800.665.0411
Email: dvanzant@investorideas.com,
Source: RenewableEnergyStocks.com, Carbon Sciences, Inc.
Friday, November 28, 2008
Will The Alternative Energy Industry Survive The Oil Price Crash?
Will The Alternative Energy Industry Survive The Oil Price Crash?
Householders who were considering installing renewable energy technology as a hedge against the rising cost, and potential scarcity, of fossil fuels are now shelving plans as heating bills fall. CarbonFree points out that the green building sector is particularly vulnerable as falling property prices have already made renewable energy technology look more expensive in relation to the total price of a property. CarbonFree believes that companies exploiting the growing market for alternative energy should ensure their technology and services remain competitive, even if the price of oil falls as low as $30 per barrel.
Cambridge, UK -November 28, 2008 -- Two years ago CarbonFree warned that companies exploiting the growing market for alternative energy should ensure their technology and services remain competitive, even if the price of oil fell as low as $30 per barrel.
In recent weeks the price of oil has eased. The overshoot in the price of oil that inflated the market for renewable energy is being replaced by an undershoot, based on anticipated energy price reductions. Householders who were considering installing renewable energy technology as a hedge against the rising cost, and potential scarcity, of fossil fuels are now shelving plans as heating bills fall. CarbonFree points out that the green building sector is particularly vulnerable as falling property prices have already made renewable energy technology look more expensive in relation to the total price of a property.
While CarbonFree sees the oil price stabilising at a level reflecting its true underlying value, it believes house prices will continue to fall - perhaps by as much as 70% of their 2007 prices. It points out, in a report on domestic energy microgeneration, that as well as the credit crunch cutting off the supply of finance for new houses in the short term, a shift in demographics could keep house prices depressed for over a decade. It predicts that as more elderly people move out of private houses into residential care there will be a shortfall in the number of young householders who want to buy the vacated properties.
CarbonFree regards developers with business models based on the construction of low cost sustainable houses as being particularly exposed at the moment - especially in the UK where the government is scaling back plans for 'eco' housing developments.
Peter Kruger, founder of CarbonFree, who sponsored research into large scale solar energy schemes during the 1980s, believes the renewable energy sector is facing a crisis similar to the one it experienced 20 years ago. "The main difference today is that while in the 1980s the industry was in its infancy, today some key players have achieved the scale required to survive a downturn. Just as the Dot Com crash did not totally destroy the IT and communications sector so companies with robust business models will survive the bursting of the Green Tech bubble," explains Kruger, who goes on to state: "Just before the credit crunch triggered the current recession the global economy was experiencing problems caused by a shortage of energy and raw materials. A return to economic growth without sustainability is not really an option and any economic revival must also include an expansion of the renewable energy sector."
CarbonFree has produced reports that examine both large-scale and small-scale renewable energy generation markets and see both becoming realistic propositions if the technology can produce energy at the right price. The reports describe technologies and scenarios that would make this possible. At $30 per barrel of oil equivalent, given that renewable energy is cleaner for the consumer and has less environmental impact than burning fossil fuels, CarbonFree predicts that renewables would eventually displace most other incumbent energy sources.
CarbonFree reports are available from http://www.carbonfree.co.uk
About CarbonFree:
CarbonFree carries out research and analysis in a wide range of alternative energy related fields and disseminates results in its highly focused CarbonFree reports.
http://www.carbonfree.co.uk
Householders who were considering installing renewable energy technology as a hedge against the rising cost, and potential scarcity, of fossil fuels are now shelving plans as heating bills fall. CarbonFree points out that the green building sector is particularly vulnerable as falling property prices have already made renewable energy technology look more expensive in relation to the total price of a property. CarbonFree believes that companies exploiting the growing market for alternative energy should ensure their technology and services remain competitive, even if the price of oil falls as low as $30 per barrel.
Cambridge, UK -November 28, 2008 -- Two years ago CarbonFree warned that companies exploiting the growing market for alternative energy should ensure their technology and services remain competitive, even if the price of oil fell as low as $30 per barrel.
In recent weeks the price of oil has eased. The overshoot in the price of oil that inflated the market for renewable energy is being replaced by an undershoot, based on anticipated energy price reductions. Householders who were considering installing renewable energy technology as a hedge against the rising cost, and potential scarcity, of fossil fuels are now shelving plans as heating bills fall. CarbonFree points out that the green building sector is particularly vulnerable as falling property prices have already made renewable energy technology look more expensive in relation to the total price of a property.
While CarbonFree sees the oil price stabilising at a level reflecting its true underlying value, it believes house prices will continue to fall - perhaps by as much as 70% of their 2007 prices. It points out, in a report on domestic energy microgeneration, that as well as the credit crunch cutting off the supply of finance for new houses in the short term, a shift in demographics could keep house prices depressed for over a decade. It predicts that as more elderly people move out of private houses into residential care there will be a shortfall in the number of young householders who want to buy the vacated properties.
CarbonFree regards developers with business models based on the construction of low cost sustainable houses as being particularly exposed at the moment - especially in the UK where the government is scaling back plans for 'eco' housing developments.
Peter Kruger, founder of CarbonFree, who sponsored research into large scale solar energy schemes during the 1980s, believes the renewable energy sector is facing a crisis similar to the one it experienced 20 years ago. "The main difference today is that while in the 1980s the industry was in its infancy, today some key players have achieved the scale required to survive a downturn. Just as the Dot Com crash did not totally destroy the IT and communications sector so companies with robust business models will survive the bursting of the Green Tech bubble," explains Kruger, who goes on to state: "Just before the credit crunch triggered the current recession the global economy was experiencing problems caused by a shortage of energy and raw materials. A return to economic growth without sustainability is not really an option and any economic revival must also include an expansion of the renewable energy sector."
CarbonFree has produced reports that examine both large-scale and small-scale renewable energy generation markets and see both becoming realistic propositions if the technology can produce energy at the right price. The reports describe technologies and scenarios that would make this possible. At $30 per barrel of oil equivalent, given that renewable energy is cleaner for the consumer and has less environmental impact than burning fossil fuels, CarbonFree predicts that renewables would eventually displace most other incumbent energy sources.
CarbonFree reports are available from http://www.carbonfree.co.uk
About CarbonFree:
CarbonFree carries out research and analysis in a wide range of alternative energy related fields and disseminates results in its highly focused CarbonFree reports.
http://www.carbonfree.co.uk
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Renewable Energy Stocks Sector Close-Up on Solar Stocks; Solar Stocks Get a Two Day Run with General Markets
Renewable Energy Stocks Sector Close-Up on Solar Stocks; Solar Stocks Get a Two Day Run with General Markets
POINT ROBERTS, WA and DELTA, BC—November 26, 2008 -- www.RenewableEnergyStocks.com,
a leading investor news and research portal for the renewable energy sector within Investorideas.com, presents a sector close-up on solar stocks following a two day run for some of the leaders. Solar stocks traded up with the general markets but investors are cautiously optimistic following the recent speech from President-elect Obama, discussing job creation in the sector.
Renewable Energy Stocks solar expert, J. Peter Lynch commented in his most recent column, that this market may represent a generational buying opportunity, “I agree that solar P/E’s and expectations were FAR too optimistic and missed a number of rather obvious problems that were rapidly approaching (i.e. coming silicon over supply), however, at this time I believe that current expectations have moved equally to the opposite extreme with FAR too much pessimism.”
Renewable and Solar Energy Perspectives with J. Peter Lynch http://www.renewableenergystocks.com/PL/
XsunX, Inc.(OTC Bulletin Board: XSNX), a solar technology company engaged in the build-out of its multi-megawatt thin film photovoltaic (TFPV) solar manufacturing facilities in Oregon, announced that it had entered into a two-year supply contract for the sale of fifteen (15) megawatts of it ASI-120 TFPV solar modules (representing approximately $37 million dollars in total contract value ) to a full service solar power company specializing in commercial and solar farm projects located in the California and Hawaiian markets. The stock traded volume of 1,672,300 and was up on the day, closing at just under $0.25, from its opening of $0.19 on the news.
Investors can also track the Ardour Solar Energy Index (^SOLRX) (Market, News), a compilation of global solar energy stocks in three primary solar energy sectors: Photovoltaics, Solar Thermal, and Solar Lighting for sector indications.
Sector Close-Up as of Trading November 25, 2008:
First Solar, Inc. (BASDAQ: FSLR) (Market, News) closed at $117.19
Akeena Solar Inc. (NASDAQ:AKNS) closed at $1.79
Evergreen Solar Inc (NASDAQ:ESLR) (Market, News) closed at $2.38
LDK Solar ADR (LDK) (Market, News) closed at $12.73
SunPower Corporation (SPWRA) (Market, News ) closed at $30.57
Yingli Green Energy (YGE) (Market, News) closed at $4.49
XsunX: (OTCBB: XSNX) closed up at $0.245 on significant volume on news.
ICP SOLAR (OTCBB: ICPR) (Market, News ) closed at $0.211
WorldWater & Solar Technologies (OTCBB: WWAT) (Market, News) traded at $0.271.
For investors following solar stocks, the RenewableEnergyStocks.com website provides a comprehensive list of photovoltaic and solar stocks to research.
http://www.investorideas.com/Companies/RenewableEnergy/Stock_List.asp
Featured Showcase Solar Company XsunX: (OTCBB: XSNX) Based in Aliso Viejo, Calif., XsunX is developing amorphous silicon thin film photovoltaic (TFPV) solar cell manufacturing processes to produce TFPV solar modules. To deliver its products the Company has begun to build a multi- megawatt TFPV solar module production facility in the United States to meet the growing demand for solar cell products used in large scale commercial projects, utility power fields, and other on-grid applications. Employing a phased roll out of production capacity, it plans to grow manufacturing capacities to over 100 megawatts by 2010. More info on XsunX, Inc. can be found on our media profile at: http://www.investorideas.com/co/xsnx/default.asp or http://www.xsunx.com/
About Our Green Investor Portals:
www.RenewableEnergyStocks.com® is one of several green investor portals within Investorideas.com and provides investors with stock news, exclusive articles and financial columnists, audio interviews, investor conferences and a directory of stocks within the renewable energy sector.
Green News Feeds:
Peter Lynch RSS Feed: http://www.investorideas.com/RSS/feeds/PL.xml
Renewable Energy and GreenTech Business and Stock News RSS Feed: http://www.investorideas.com/RSS/feeds/RES.xml
Become an Investorideas.com Member
With markets and investor sentiment changing daily- it is more important than ever to stay on top of key trends! Gain Exclusive Insight on Leading Sectors, Global Trends, and Insider Trading Ideas, News, Articles and Investor Ideas Members only Restricted Content including the complete renewable energy stocks directory and the Insiders Corner by Michael Brush.
Become an InvestorIdeas.com Member -Learn more: - click here http://www.investorideas.com/membership/
Disclaimer: Our sites do not make recommendations. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. We attempt to research thoroughly, but we offer no guarantees as to the accuracy of information presented. All Information relating to featured companies is sourced from public documents and/ or the company and is not the opinion of our web sites. This site is currently compensated by featured companies, news submissions and online advertising. Disclosure: XsunX compensate the website $5000 per month www.InvestorIdeas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp
For more information contact:
Dawn Van Zant 800.665.0411
Email: dvanzant@investorideas.com,
Source: RenewableEnergyStocks.com, XsunX
POINT ROBERTS, WA and DELTA, BC—November 26, 2008 -- www.RenewableEnergyStocks.com,
a leading investor news and research portal for the renewable energy sector within Investorideas.com, presents a sector close-up on solar stocks following a two day run for some of the leaders. Solar stocks traded up with the general markets but investors are cautiously optimistic following the recent speech from President-elect Obama, discussing job creation in the sector.
Renewable Energy Stocks solar expert, J. Peter Lynch commented in his most recent column, that this market may represent a generational buying opportunity, “I agree that solar P/E’s and expectations were FAR too optimistic and missed a number of rather obvious problems that were rapidly approaching (i.e. coming silicon over supply), however, at this time I believe that current expectations have moved equally to the opposite extreme with FAR too much pessimism.”
Renewable and Solar Energy Perspectives with J. Peter Lynch http://www.renewableenergystocks.com/PL/
XsunX, Inc.(OTC Bulletin Board: XSNX), a solar technology company engaged in the build-out of its multi-megawatt thin film photovoltaic (TFPV) solar manufacturing facilities in Oregon, announced that it had entered into a two-year supply contract for the sale of fifteen (15) megawatts of it ASI-120 TFPV solar modules (representing approximately $37 million dollars in total contract value ) to a full service solar power company specializing in commercial and solar farm projects located in the California and Hawaiian markets. The stock traded volume of 1,672,300 and was up on the day, closing at just under $0.25, from its opening of $0.19 on the news.
Investors can also track the Ardour Solar Energy Index (^SOLRX) (Market, News), a compilation of global solar energy stocks in three primary solar energy sectors: Photovoltaics, Solar Thermal, and Solar Lighting for sector indications.
Sector Close-Up as of Trading November 25, 2008:
First Solar, Inc. (BASDAQ: FSLR) (Market, News) closed at $117.19
Akeena Solar Inc. (NASDAQ:AKNS) closed at $1.79
Evergreen Solar Inc (NASDAQ:ESLR) (Market, News) closed at $2.38
LDK Solar ADR (LDK) (Market, News) closed at $12.73
SunPower Corporation (SPWRA) (Market, News ) closed at $30.57
Yingli Green Energy (YGE) (Market, News) closed at $4.49
XsunX: (OTCBB: XSNX) closed up at $0.245 on significant volume on news.
ICP SOLAR (OTCBB: ICPR) (Market, News ) closed at $0.211
WorldWater & Solar Technologies (OTCBB: WWAT) (Market, News) traded at $0.271.
For investors following solar stocks, the RenewableEnergyStocks.com website provides a comprehensive list of photovoltaic and solar stocks to research.
http://www.investorideas.com/Companies/RenewableEnergy/Stock_List.asp
Featured Showcase Solar Company XsunX: (OTCBB: XSNX) Based in Aliso Viejo, Calif., XsunX is developing amorphous silicon thin film photovoltaic (TFPV) solar cell manufacturing processes to produce TFPV solar modules. To deliver its products the Company has begun to build a multi- megawatt TFPV solar module production facility in the United States to meet the growing demand for solar cell products used in large scale commercial projects, utility power fields, and other on-grid applications. Employing a phased roll out of production capacity, it plans to grow manufacturing capacities to over 100 megawatts by 2010. More info on XsunX, Inc. can be found on our media profile at: http://www.investorideas.com/co/xsnx/default.asp or http://www.xsunx.com/
About Our Green Investor Portals:
www.RenewableEnergyStocks.com® is one of several green investor portals within Investorideas.com and provides investors with stock news, exclusive articles and financial columnists, audio interviews, investor conferences and a directory of stocks within the renewable energy sector.
Green News Feeds:
Peter Lynch RSS Feed: http://www.investorideas.com/RSS/feeds/PL.xml
Renewable Energy and GreenTech Business and Stock News RSS Feed: http://www.investorideas.com/RSS/feeds/RES.xml
Become an Investorideas.com Member
With markets and investor sentiment changing daily- it is more important than ever to stay on top of key trends! Gain Exclusive Insight on Leading Sectors, Global Trends, and Insider Trading Ideas, News, Articles and Investor Ideas Members only Restricted Content including the complete renewable energy stocks directory and the Insiders Corner by Michael Brush.
Become an InvestorIdeas.com Member -Learn more: - click here http://www.investorideas.com/membership/
Disclaimer: Our sites do not make recommendations. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. We attempt to research thoroughly, but we offer no guarantees as to the accuracy of information presented. All Information relating to featured companies is sourced from public documents and/ or the company and is not the opinion of our web sites. This site is currently compensated by featured companies, news submissions and online advertising. Disclosure: XsunX compensate the website $5000 per month www.InvestorIdeas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp
For more information contact:
Dawn Van Zant 800.665.0411
Email: dvanzant@investorideas.com,
Source: RenewableEnergyStocks.com, XsunX
Monday, November 24, 2008
The Market and Solar Stocks- Renewable and Solar Energy Perspectives with J. Peter Lynch
The Market and Solar Stocks
Renewable and Solar Energy Perspectives with J. Peter Lynch
By Peter Lynch Exclusively for InvestorIdeas.com
First of all, the market has simply put, been terrible. This is certainly shaping up to be a year for the record books. In fact, as of the close Friday (8-21-08) the Dow Jones is having the SECOND WORST year in its history, with 1931 being the worst year with a yearly loss of -52.67%. The numbers below reflect the performance of the three main market indexes since June 1 2008.
DJIA Dow Jones Industrials -36.3
SPX Standard and Poor’s 500 -42.9
NASD NASDAQ -45.1
As to my opinion of this general market situation, I think it is either the beginning of very bad times or a generational buying opportunity in the market.
There is really no way to tell for sure, but based upon my experience in the market over the past 30 years and the opinions of numerous others that I respect, I believe we are very close to a great buying opportunity. It is impossible to ever “catch” the exact bottom, but I do feel that most of potential future bad times have already been incorporated into current stock prices by the market. Therefore, barring a financial Armageddon, I think that prices will be significantly higher in 6 months than they are now.
Regarding my opinion on solar stocks, the numbers below reflect the performance of solar stocks since June 1 2008. Obviously there has been a near total collapse of the average stock which was brought on by a combination of: sky high P/E multiples, an insanely volatile general stock market and dire predictions of future industry progress.
Symbol Name Performance %
AKNS Akeena Solar, Inc. -73.9
ASTI Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc. -77.9
CSIQ Canadian Solar Inc. -89.8
CSUN China Sunergy Company Ltd. -87.1
DSTI DayStar Technologies Inc. -78.1
EMKR EMCORE Corporation -85.6
ENER Energy Conversion Devices Inc -66.9
ESLR Evergreen Solar, Inc. -77.4
FSLR First Solar, Inc. -65.3
JASO JA Solar Holdings Co., Ltd -90.1
LDK LDK Solar Company Ltd. -76.1
RSOL Real Goods Solar, Inc. -44.6
SOL ReneSola, Ltd. (United Kingdom) ADR -90.6
SOLF Solarfun Power Holdings Co. -85.8
SOLR GT Solar International Inc -83.38
SPIR Spire Corporation -77.1
SPWRA Sunpower Corporation -74.8
STP Suntech Power Holdings (China) ADR -85.8
TSL Trina Solar Limited -85.9
WFR MEMC Electronic Materials, Inc. -83.4
YGE Yingli Green Energy Holding Company Limited (China) ADR -86
Average Loss = -79.31%
I agree that solar P/E’s and expectations were FAR too optimistic and missed a number of rather obvious problems that were rapidly approaching (i.e. coming silicon over supply), however, at this time I believe that current expectations have moved equally to the opposite extreme with FAR too much pessimism.
A great degree (a vast majority in my opinion) of this current activity in the market and in solar stocks is principally driven by FEAR. People are afraid NOT to sell because stocks are going to ZERO and people are afraid to buy because stocks are going to ZERO. Obviously BOTH cannot be correct. But the point is that the market is currently in the phase of market dynamics that is totally dominated by emotions. These emotions are rampant and further fueled by the silly people in the media jumping on every tidbit of information and trying to draw a conclusion from each of them (which is impossible), thereby helping, in a way, to compound and extend the panic underlying this this crisis.
With this said is there a way to look at solar stocks today and try to “pick” the ones that have the most potential? Once again, it is impossible to accurately determine which will be the winners and which will be the losers. However I think that there are at least three of areas an investor should look at that I would consider to be critically important. If a company possesses ALL three of these characteristics it would have much higher probability that it will be a leader in the next phase of the emerging solar boom.
First: CASH. During times like this CASH IS KING. So an investor will have to make sure to check each potential company’s balance sheet and insure that they have adequate cash reserves to carry them through at least 2009 without need of further financing.
Second: RELATIVE STRENGTH. In periods like this good stocks and bad stocks BOTH are carried down with the general market. However, the better stocks generally drop last and come back (when the tide changes positive) first. These stocks will also most likely be the ones with the most cash (best financial shape) therefore with the best future prospects. As a result, an investor should look for the solar stocks with the highest relative strength compared to the general market - they will be the early leaders in the next market stage.
Third: PRODUCT DIFFERENTIATION. With a new industry like solar the longer term leaders are generally the companies with some form of competitive advantage or product differentiation. Remember these companies may have innovative products, but they must also pass the first two hurdles (cash and relative strength) in order to warrant further consideration as an investment. Five examples of this (not necessarily “official” recommendations) are listed below with their respective “differentiator” to give you a better idea of what I am referring to:
First Solar (FSLR) – low cost market leader in the thin film sector
SunPower (SPWRA) - highest efficiency product, therefore potential leader in the space constrained residential market segment.
Energy Conversion Devices (ENER) – unique product, with high margins in the flexible PV market segment.
SunTech (STP) – low cost producer in the crystalline PV market segment.
Emcore (EMKR) – one of only two producers of very high efficiency PV cells for the Concentrating PV (CPV) market segment.
Remember that even though this MAY BE a generational buying opportunity in the general market and the solar sector you should always consider this as higher risk money and money that you can afford to potential lose and also be money that you can be patient with and allow the situation to work itself out over time.
Mr. Lynch has worked, for 31 years as an independent analyst and investor in small emerging technology companies. He has been actively involved in following developments in the renewable energy sector since 1977 and is regarded as an expert in this field. He was the contributing editor for the past 17 years to the Photovoltaic Insider Report, the leading publication in Photovoltaics industry that was directed at industrial subscribers, such as major energy companies, utilities and governments around the world. He can be reached via e-mail at: solarjpl@aol.com or at his new website: www.sunseries.net.
About Our Green Investor Portals:
http://www.RenewableEnergyStocks.com is one of several green investor portals within Investorideas.com and provides investors with stock news, exclusive articles and financial columnists, audio interviews, investor conferences and a directory of stocks within the renewable energy sector.
Renewable Energy and GreenTech Business and Stock News at Investorideas.com: http://www.investorideas.com/RSS/feeds/RES.xml
Peter Lynch RSS Feed: http://www.investorideas.com/RSS/feeds/PL.xml, Renewable Energy and GreenTech Business and Stock News RSS Feed: http://www.investorideas.com/RSS/feeds/RES.xml
About InvestorIdeas.com: "One of the first online investor resources providing in-depth information on renewable energy, greentech and water sectors." InvestorIdeas.com is a leading global investor and industry research resource portal specialized in sector investing covering over thirty industry sectors and global markets including China, India, Middle East and Australia.
Become an Investorideas.com Member
With markets and investor sentiment changing daily- it is more important than ever to stay on top of key trends! Gain Exclusive Insight on Leading Sectors, Global Trends, and Insider Trading Ideas, News, Articles and Investor Ideas Members only Restricted Content including the complete renewable energy stocks directory.
Become an InvestorIdeas.com -Learn more: - click here http://www.investorideas.com/membership/
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in the research published are those of the individual companies and writers and not necessarily those of Investorideas.com®, or any of the industry sector portals . At the time of publication, writers may hold positions in the stocks or companies mentioned.
Renewable and Solar Energy Perspectives with J. Peter Lynch
By Peter Lynch Exclusively for InvestorIdeas.com
First of all, the market has simply put, been terrible. This is certainly shaping up to be a year for the record books. In fact, as of the close Friday (8-21-08) the Dow Jones is having the SECOND WORST year in its history, with 1931 being the worst year with a yearly loss of -52.67%. The numbers below reflect the performance of the three main market indexes since June 1 2008.
DJIA Dow Jones Industrials -36.3
SPX Standard and Poor’s 500 -42.9
NASD NASDAQ -45.1
As to my opinion of this general market situation, I think it is either the beginning of very bad times or a generational buying opportunity in the market.
There is really no way to tell for sure, but based upon my experience in the market over the past 30 years and the opinions of numerous others that I respect, I believe we are very close to a great buying opportunity. It is impossible to ever “catch” the exact bottom, but I do feel that most of potential future bad times have already been incorporated into current stock prices by the market. Therefore, barring a financial Armageddon, I think that prices will be significantly higher in 6 months than they are now.
Regarding my opinion on solar stocks, the numbers below reflect the performance of solar stocks since June 1 2008. Obviously there has been a near total collapse of the average stock which was brought on by a combination of: sky high P/E multiples, an insanely volatile general stock market and dire predictions of future industry progress.
Symbol Name Performance %
AKNS Akeena Solar, Inc. -73.9
ASTI Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc. -77.9
CSIQ Canadian Solar Inc. -89.8
CSUN China Sunergy Company Ltd. -87.1
DSTI DayStar Technologies Inc. -78.1
EMKR EMCORE Corporation -85.6
ENER Energy Conversion Devices Inc -66.9
ESLR Evergreen Solar, Inc. -77.4
FSLR First Solar, Inc. -65.3
JASO JA Solar Holdings Co., Ltd -90.1
LDK LDK Solar Company Ltd. -76.1
RSOL Real Goods Solar, Inc. -44.6
SOL ReneSola, Ltd. (United Kingdom) ADR -90.6
SOLF Solarfun Power Holdings Co. -85.8
SOLR GT Solar International Inc -83.38
SPIR Spire Corporation -77.1
SPWRA Sunpower Corporation -74.8
STP Suntech Power Holdings (China) ADR -85.8
TSL Trina Solar Limited -85.9
WFR MEMC Electronic Materials, Inc. -83.4
YGE Yingli Green Energy Holding Company Limited (China) ADR -86
Average Loss = -79.31%
I agree that solar P/E’s and expectations were FAR too optimistic and missed a number of rather obvious problems that were rapidly approaching (i.e. coming silicon over supply), however, at this time I believe that current expectations have moved equally to the opposite extreme with FAR too much pessimism.
A great degree (a vast majority in my opinion) of this current activity in the market and in solar stocks is principally driven by FEAR. People are afraid NOT to sell because stocks are going to ZERO and people are afraid to buy because stocks are going to ZERO. Obviously BOTH cannot be correct. But the point is that the market is currently in the phase of market dynamics that is totally dominated by emotions. These emotions are rampant and further fueled by the silly people in the media jumping on every tidbit of information and trying to draw a conclusion from each of them (which is impossible), thereby helping, in a way, to compound and extend the panic underlying this this crisis.
With this said is there a way to look at solar stocks today and try to “pick” the ones that have the most potential? Once again, it is impossible to accurately determine which will be the winners and which will be the losers. However I think that there are at least three of areas an investor should look at that I would consider to be critically important. If a company possesses ALL three of these characteristics it would have much higher probability that it will be a leader in the next phase of the emerging solar boom.
First: CASH. During times like this CASH IS KING. So an investor will have to make sure to check each potential company’s balance sheet and insure that they have adequate cash reserves to carry them through at least 2009 without need of further financing.
Second: RELATIVE STRENGTH. In periods like this good stocks and bad stocks BOTH are carried down with the general market. However, the better stocks generally drop last and come back (when the tide changes positive) first. These stocks will also most likely be the ones with the most cash (best financial shape) therefore with the best future prospects. As a result, an investor should look for the solar stocks with the highest relative strength compared to the general market - they will be the early leaders in the next market stage.
Third: PRODUCT DIFFERENTIATION. With a new industry like solar the longer term leaders are generally the companies with some form of competitive advantage or product differentiation. Remember these companies may have innovative products, but they must also pass the first two hurdles (cash and relative strength) in order to warrant further consideration as an investment. Five examples of this (not necessarily “official” recommendations) are listed below with their respective “differentiator” to give you a better idea of what I am referring to:
First Solar (FSLR) – low cost market leader in the thin film sector
SunPower (SPWRA) - highest efficiency product, therefore potential leader in the space constrained residential market segment.
Energy Conversion Devices (ENER) – unique product, with high margins in the flexible PV market segment.
SunTech (STP) – low cost producer in the crystalline PV market segment.
Emcore (EMKR) – one of only two producers of very high efficiency PV cells for the Concentrating PV (CPV) market segment.
Remember that even though this MAY BE a generational buying opportunity in the general market and the solar sector you should always consider this as higher risk money and money that you can afford to potential lose and also be money that you can be patient with and allow the situation to work itself out over time.
Mr. Lynch has worked, for 31 years as an independent analyst and investor in small emerging technology companies. He has been actively involved in following developments in the renewable energy sector since 1977 and is regarded as an expert in this field. He was the contributing editor for the past 17 years to the Photovoltaic Insider Report, the leading publication in Photovoltaics industry that was directed at industrial subscribers, such as major energy companies, utilities and governments around the world. He can be reached via e-mail at: solarjpl@aol.com or at his new website: www.sunseries.net.
About Our Green Investor Portals:
http://www.RenewableEnergyStocks.com is one of several green investor portals within Investorideas.com and provides investors with stock news, exclusive articles and financial columnists, audio interviews, investor conferences and a directory of stocks within the renewable energy sector.
Renewable Energy and GreenTech Business and Stock News at Investorideas.com: http://www.investorideas.com/RSS/feeds/RES.xml
Peter Lynch RSS Feed: http://www.investorideas.com/RSS/feeds/PL.xml, Renewable Energy and GreenTech Business and Stock News RSS Feed: http://www.investorideas.com/RSS/feeds/RES.xml
About InvestorIdeas.com: "One of the first online investor resources providing in-depth information on renewable energy, greentech and water sectors." InvestorIdeas.com is a leading global investor and industry research resource portal specialized in sector investing covering over thirty industry sectors and global markets including China, India, Middle East and Australia.
Become an Investorideas.com Member
With markets and investor sentiment changing daily- it is more important than ever to stay on top of key trends! Gain Exclusive Insight on Leading Sectors, Global Trends, and Insider Trading Ideas, News, Articles and Investor Ideas Members only Restricted Content including the complete renewable energy stocks directory.
Become an InvestorIdeas.com -Learn more: - click here http://www.investorideas.com/membership/
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in the research published are those of the individual companies and writers and not necessarily those of Investorideas.com®, or any of the industry sector portals . At the time of publication, writers may hold positions in the stocks or companies mentioned.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Obama- Making the U.S. a Leader on Climate Change
The Obama-Biden Plan
http://change.gov/agenda/energy_and_environment_agenda/
The energy challenges our country faces are severe and have gone unaddressed for far too long. Our addiction to foreign oil doesn't just undermine our national security and wreak havoc on our environment -- it cripples our economy and strains the budgets of working families all across America. Barack Obama and Joe Biden have a comprehensive plan to invest in alternative and renewable energy, end our addiction to foreign oil, address the global climate crisis and create millions of new jobs.
The Obama-Biden comprehensive New Energy for America plan will:
Help create five million new jobs by strategically investing $150 billion over the next ten years to catalyze private efforts to build a clean energy future.
Within 10 years save more oil than we currently import from the Middle East and Venezuela combined.
Put 1 million Plug-In Hybrid cars -- cars that can get up to 150 miles per gallon -- on the road by 2015, cars that we will work to make sure are built here in America.
Ensure 10 percent of our electricity comes from renewable sources by 2012, and 25 percent by 2025.
Implement an economy-wide cap-and-trade program to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 80 percent by 2050.
Energy Plan Overview
Provide Short-term Relief to American Families
Crack Down on Excessive Energy Speculation.
Swap Oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to Cut Prices.
Eliminate Our Current Imports from the Middle East and Venezuela within 10 Years
Increase Fuel Economy Standards.
Get 1 Million Plug-In Hybrid Cars on the Road by 2015.
Create a New $7,000 Tax Credit for Purchasing Advanced Vehicles.
Establish a National Low Carbon Fuel Standard.
A “Use it or Lose It” Approach to Existing Oil and Gas Leases.
Promote the Responsible Domestic Production of Oil and Natural Gas.
Create Millions of New Green Jobs
Ensure 10 percent of Our Electricity Comes from Renewable Sources by 2012, and 25 percent by 2025.
Deploy the Cheapest, Cleanest, Fastest Energy Source – Energy Efficiency.
Weatherize One Million Homes Annually.
Develop and Deploy Clean Coal Technology.
Prioritize the Construction of the Alaska Natural Gas Pipeline.
Reduce our Greenhouse Gas Emissions 80 Percent by 2050
Implement an economy-wide cap-and-trade program to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 80 percent by 2050.
Make the U.S. a Leader on Climate Change.
http://change.gov/agenda/energy_and_environment_agenda/
The energy challenges our country faces are severe and have gone unaddressed for far too long. Our addiction to foreign oil doesn't just undermine our national security and wreak havoc on our environment -- it cripples our economy and strains the budgets of working families all across America. Barack Obama and Joe Biden have a comprehensive plan to invest in alternative and renewable energy, end our addiction to foreign oil, address the global climate crisis and create millions of new jobs.
The Obama-Biden comprehensive New Energy for America plan will:
Help create five million new jobs by strategically investing $150 billion over the next ten years to catalyze private efforts to build a clean energy future.
Within 10 years save more oil than we currently import from the Middle East and Venezuela combined.
Put 1 million Plug-In Hybrid cars -- cars that can get up to 150 miles per gallon -- on the road by 2015, cars that we will work to make sure are built here in America.
Ensure 10 percent of our electricity comes from renewable sources by 2012, and 25 percent by 2025.
Implement an economy-wide cap-and-trade program to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 80 percent by 2050.
Energy Plan Overview
Provide Short-term Relief to American Families
Crack Down on Excessive Energy Speculation.
Swap Oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to Cut Prices.
Eliminate Our Current Imports from the Middle East and Venezuela within 10 Years
Increase Fuel Economy Standards.
Get 1 Million Plug-In Hybrid Cars on the Road by 2015.
Create a New $7,000 Tax Credit for Purchasing Advanced Vehicles.
Establish a National Low Carbon Fuel Standard.
A “Use it or Lose It” Approach to Existing Oil and Gas Leases.
Promote the Responsible Domestic Production of Oil and Natural Gas.
Create Millions of New Green Jobs
Ensure 10 percent of Our Electricity Comes from Renewable Sources by 2012, and 25 percent by 2025.
Deploy the Cheapest, Cleanest, Fastest Energy Source – Energy Efficiency.
Weatherize One Million Homes Annually.
Develop and Deploy Clean Coal Technology.
Prioritize the Construction of the Alaska Natural Gas Pipeline.
Reduce our Greenhouse Gas Emissions 80 Percent by 2050
Implement an economy-wide cap-and-trade program to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 80 percent by 2050.
Make the U.S. a Leader on Climate Change.
Friday, November 21, 2008
Driving Green; Electric Cars on the Rise at LA Auto Show – Oil Prices Might Be Down But Need to Reduce CO2 Emissions Still Driving Force
Driving Green; Electric Cars on the Rise at LA Auto Show – Oil Prices Might Be Down But Need to Reduce CO2 Emissions Still Driving Force
November 21, 2008 - Point Roberts, InvestorIdeas.com and its green investor portal Renewableenergystocks.com announce the most recent Podcast of Driving Green, discussing some of the new electric and green cars featured at the LA Auto show.
As oil and gas prices drop in the short term, the driving force behind electric cars has not diminished. Environmental impact, global warming and CO2 emissions are still concerns for consumers, industry and government. The new Obama administration has pledged to make fuel efficient cars part of their mandate. Just this week, a group of leaders called for 10% of cars to be electric by 2020, increasing to 50% by 2030 to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
To listen to the Podcast: click here: http://s3.amazonaws.com/static.investorideas.com/podcasts/2008/dg112108.mp3
Podcast Transcript:
This is Driving Green at Investorideas.com http://www.investorideas.com/dg/
The Los Angeles auto show showcased the future of electric cars with some new and old players in the game .Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., announced a new electric-vehicle partnership with the state of Oregon, based on Nissan’s commitment to begin offering pure electric cars in 2010 in the United States and Japan.
Carlos Ghosn, president and CEO said “We see in Oregon the vision that is evident in all the places that are eager for sustainable mobility," said Mr. Ghosn. "Demonstrating their care for the environment, the state and its partners are creating the conditions that will promote zero-emission vehicles as an attractive choice for consumers."
He also announced plans to have 10 per cent of his cars with battery electric drivelines by 2010.
BMW also showcased their new line of electric minis. The company has built 500 minis that will be leased to select customers in LA and New York prior to a larger release.
Chrysler also displayed three advanced production-intent electric vehicle prototype vehicles where they will be making their worldwide auto show debut. Chrysler's Electric Vehicles utilize three primary components- an electric motor to drive the wheels, an advanced lithium-ion battery system to power the electric-drive motor, and a controller that manages energy flow. The electric-drive system is being developed for front-wheel-drive, rear-wheel-drive, and body-on-frame four-wheel-drive vehicle applications.
Surprisingly the green car of the year at the LA auto show was not electric or hybrid – it was Volkswagen's new Jetta TDI- a sporty diesel-powered sedan. The Jetta came in ahead of the Ford Fusion gasoline-electric hybrid and the Saturn Vue hybrid.
So with the US auto industry in a state of fear and uncertainty, it is clear that from Obama’s plan for a more fuel efficient auto industry to the LA auto show winners – green is still the color of money for the future .
To research our full list of Green Automotive Stocks - visit our stock directory at RenewableEnergyStocks.com
http://www.renewableenergystocks.com/Companies/RenewableEnergy/stock_list.asp
To research Fuel cell cars – visit Fuelcellcarnews.com within Investorideas.com
Sponsors - Featured Showcase Green Companies at Investorideas.com
OriginOil, Inc. (OTCBB: OOIL) is developing a breakthrough technology that will transform algae, the most promising source of renewable oil, into a true competitor to petroleum.
Carbon Sciences, Inc. (OTCBB:CABN) is developing a breakthrough technology to transform carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions into the basic fuel building blocks required to produce gasoline, diesel fuel, jet fuel and other portable fuels.
About Our Green Investor Portals:
http://www.RenewableEnergyStocks.com is one of several green investor portals within Investorideas.com and provides investors with stock news, exclusive articles and financial columnists, audio interviews, investor conferences and a directory of stocks within the renewable energy sector.
Renewable Energy and GreenTech Business and Stock News at Investorideas.com: http://www.investorideas.com/RSS/feeds/RES.xml
Peter Lynch RSS Feed: http://www.investorideas.com/RSS/feeds/PL.xml, Renewable Energy and GreenTech Business and Stock News RSS Feed: http://www.investorideas.com/RSS/feeds/RES.xml
Publish Your Green and Environment News
Your news is featured on Investorideas.com Newswire, Renewable RSS Feeds, Environment Stocks.com, and Greentechinvestor.com & Renewablenergystocks.com
In addition – our Investorideas.com news feeds and Renewable News feeds are distributed on multiple business and industry sites!
http://www1.investorideas.com/NewsUploader/Default.aspx
About InvestorIdeas.com: "One of the first online investor resources providing in-depth information on renewable energy, greentech and water sectors." InvestorIdeas.com is a leading global investor and industry research resource portal specialized in sector investing covering over thirty industry sectors and global markets including China, India, Middle East and Australia.
Become an Investorideas.com Member
With markets and investor sentiment changing daily- it is more important than ever to stay on top of key trends! Gain Exclusive Insight on Leading Sectors, Global Trends, and Insider Trading Ideas, News, Articles and Investor Ideas Members only Restricted Content including the complete renewable energy stocks directory.
Become an InvestorIdeas.com -Learn more: - click here http://www.investorideas.com/membership/
Disclaimer: Our sites do not make recommendations, but offer information portals to research news, articles, stock lists and recent research. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. We attempt to research thoroughly, but we offer no guarantees as to the accuracy of information presented. All Information relating to featured companies is sourced from public documents and/ or the company and is not the opinion of our web sites. This site is currently compensated by featured companies, news submissions and online advertising. (OOIL and CABN-$4000 month as green showcase company)
http://www.investorideas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp
To sponsor the Driving Green Podcast or send ideas, suggestions and feedback:
Contact: Dawn Van Zant: 800-665-0411 - dvanzant@investorideas.com
November 21, 2008 - Point Roberts, InvestorIdeas.com and its green investor portal Renewableenergystocks.com announce the most recent Podcast of Driving Green, discussing some of the new electric and green cars featured at the LA Auto show.
As oil and gas prices drop in the short term, the driving force behind electric cars has not diminished. Environmental impact, global warming and CO2 emissions are still concerns for consumers, industry and government. The new Obama administration has pledged to make fuel efficient cars part of their mandate. Just this week, a group of leaders called for 10% of cars to be electric by 2020, increasing to 50% by 2030 to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
To listen to the Podcast: click here: http://s3.amazonaws.com/static.investorideas.com/podcasts/2008/dg112108.mp3
Podcast Transcript:
This is Driving Green at Investorideas.com http://www.investorideas.com/dg/
The Los Angeles auto show showcased the future of electric cars with some new and old players in the game .Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., announced a new electric-vehicle partnership with the state of Oregon, based on Nissan’s commitment to begin offering pure electric cars in 2010 in the United States and Japan.
Carlos Ghosn, president and CEO said “We see in Oregon the vision that is evident in all the places that are eager for sustainable mobility," said Mr. Ghosn. "Demonstrating their care for the environment, the state and its partners are creating the conditions that will promote zero-emission vehicles as an attractive choice for consumers."
He also announced plans to have 10 per cent of his cars with battery electric drivelines by 2010.
BMW also showcased their new line of electric minis. The company has built 500 minis that will be leased to select customers in LA and New York prior to a larger release.
Chrysler also displayed three advanced production-intent electric vehicle prototype vehicles where they will be making their worldwide auto show debut. Chrysler's Electric Vehicles utilize three primary components- an electric motor to drive the wheels, an advanced lithium-ion battery system to power the electric-drive motor, and a controller that manages energy flow. The electric-drive system is being developed for front-wheel-drive, rear-wheel-drive, and body-on-frame four-wheel-drive vehicle applications.
Surprisingly the green car of the year at the LA auto show was not electric or hybrid – it was Volkswagen's new Jetta TDI- a sporty diesel-powered sedan. The Jetta came in ahead of the Ford Fusion gasoline-electric hybrid and the Saturn Vue hybrid.
So with the US auto industry in a state of fear and uncertainty, it is clear that from Obama’s plan for a more fuel efficient auto industry to the LA auto show winners – green is still the color of money for the future .
To research our full list of Green Automotive Stocks - visit our stock directory at RenewableEnergyStocks.com
http://www.renewableenergystocks.com/Companies/RenewableEnergy/stock_list.asp
To research Fuel cell cars – visit Fuelcellcarnews.com within Investorideas.com
Sponsors - Featured Showcase Green Companies at Investorideas.com
OriginOil, Inc. (OTCBB: OOIL) is developing a breakthrough technology that will transform algae, the most promising source of renewable oil, into a true competitor to petroleum.
Carbon Sciences, Inc. (OTCBB:CABN) is developing a breakthrough technology to transform carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions into the basic fuel building blocks required to produce gasoline, diesel fuel, jet fuel and other portable fuels.
About Our Green Investor Portals:
http://www.RenewableEnergyStocks.com is one of several green investor portals within Investorideas.com and provides investors with stock news, exclusive articles and financial columnists, audio interviews, investor conferences and a directory of stocks within the renewable energy sector.
Renewable Energy and GreenTech Business and Stock News at Investorideas.com: http://www.investorideas.com/RSS/feeds/RES.xml
Peter Lynch RSS Feed: http://www.investorideas.com/RSS/feeds/PL.xml, Renewable Energy and GreenTech Business and Stock News RSS Feed: http://www.investorideas.com/RSS/feeds/RES.xml
Publish Your Green and Environment News
Your news is featured on Investorideas.com Newswire, Renewable RSS Feeds, Environment Stocks.com, and Greentechinvestor.com & Renewablenergystocks.com
In addition – our Investorideas.com news feeds and Renewable News feeds are distributed on multiple business and industry sites!
http://www1.investorideas.com/NewsUploader/Default.aspx
About InvestorIdeas.com: "One of the first online investor resources providing in-depth information on renewable energy, greentech and water sectors." InvestorIdeas.com is a leading global investor and industry research resource portal specialized in sector investing covering over thirty industry sectors and global markets including China, India, Middle East and Australia.
Become an Investorideas.com Member
With markets and investor sentiment changing daily- it is more important than ever to stay on top of key trends! Gain Exclusive Insight on Leading Sectors, Global Trends, and Insider Trading Ideas, News, Articles and Investor Ideas Members only Restricted Content including the complete renewable energy stocks directory.
Become an InvestorIdeas.com -Learn more: - click here http://www.investorideas.com/membership/
Disclaimer: Our sites do not make recommendations, but offer information portals to research news, articles, stock lists and recent research. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. We attempt to research thoroughly, but we offer no guarantees as to the accuracy of information presented. All Information relating to featured companies is sourced from public documents and/ or the company and is not the opinion of our web sites. This site is currently compensated by featured companies, news submissions and online advertising. (OOIL and CABN-$4000 month as green showcase company)
http://www.investorideas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp
To sponsor the Driving Green Podcast or send ideas, suggestions and feedback:
Contact: Dawn Van Zant: 800-665-0411 - dvanzant@investorideas.com
Energy & Environment -- Of the People, By the People
Share your thoughts and give your opinion on a green future with President Elect Obama at Energy & Environment -- Of the People, By the People
If we really want a green future and want to invest in the sector - you can forward your thoughts and opinions here -
visit -
http://www.change.gov/page/s/energyenviro
If we really want a green future and want to invest in the sector - you can forward your thoughts and opinions here -
visit -
http://www.change.gov/page/s/energyenviro
Thursday, November 20, 2008
The Renault-Nissan Alliance and the State of Oregon Form Zero-Emission Vehicle Partnership
The Renault-Nissan Alliance and the State of Oregon Form Zero-Emission Vehicle Partnership
LOS ANGELES, Nov. 19 2008 -- The Renault-Nissan Alliance today announced that Nissan and the state of Oregon are forming a partnership to advance zero-emission mobility by promoting the development of an electric vehicle (EV) charging network. Portland General Electric (PGE) also is a participant in the partnership and is working toward the development of an easily accessible and reliable network of charging stations.
The Alliance has committed to being a global leader in zero-emission vehicles (ZEV). Nissan will introduce ZEVs in the United States in 2010 and will mass market ZEVs globally two years later. Ghosn announced the Oregon agreement during an address at the Los Angeles Auto Show.
"This partnership represents a major step toward reliable zero-emission mobility in the state of Oregon," said Carlos Ghosn, President and CEO of Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., and Renault SA,. "Together, we are creating conditions that will encourage consumers to consider an electric vehicle as an attractive choice that is also good for the environment."
The partnership supports Oregon Gov. Theodore Kulongoski's commitment to sustainability, which includes the effort to lead the nation in establishing the infrastructure necessary for a greener transportation system.
"Today's announcement shows that a state can create economic opportunity from its commitment to a greener future and the fight against global warming," Gov. Kulongoski said. "Oregon welcomes Nissan and is pleased to help lead the way in the transition to new, greener vehicle technologies. By partnering with Nissan and Portland General Electric, we can work together to build a consistent and reliable refueling infrastructure so consumers can make the switch to electric vehicles."
As part of the agreement, Nissan has committed to make available a supply of ZEVs to the state of Oregon and work with the state to develop plans to promote the EV Charging Network. The state, in partnership with the Oregon Department of Transportation, has committed to promote the deployment, operation and maintenance of the EV Charging Network by developing specifications for charging stations and seeking agreements with suppliers that may be used by entities such as local governments and utility companies.
The state, under Gov. Kulongoski's leadership, and Nissan are working with PGE towards the creation of the EV charging network. PGE, as part of its plug- in vehicle initiative, is striving to find innovative solutions to Oregon's transportation and energy challenges through the development of a model charging station infrastructure, as well as identifying its infrastructure needs related to vehicle-to-grid technology. Over the past several months, PGE has installed six charging stations- with the capability to charge several dozen vehicles - across the Portland and Salem areas, with more on the way.
"PGE is committed to playing a leadership role to bring this zero-emission transportation option to Oregon residents and businesses," said Peggy Fowler, CEO and president, PGE. "We look forward to sharing technical and educational information in the coming months as we grow our network of stations across the region."
The Renault-Nissan Alliance has begun ZEV initiatives in Israel, Denmark, Portugal, Kanagawa Prefecture (Japan), and with French electric utility company EDF. In the United States, the Alliance also has agreed to a ZEV partnership with the state of Tennessee the Tennessee Valley Authority, and other partners, to explore ways to promote zero-emission mobility in Middle Tennessee.
Nissan North America
In North America, Nissan's operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. Nissan is dedicated to improving the environment under the Nissan Green Program 2010, whose key priorities are reducing CO2 emissions, cutting other emissions and increasing recycling. More information on Nissan in North America and the complete line of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles can be found online at www.NissanUSA.com and www.infiniti.com.
Renault-Nissan Alliance
The Renault-Nissan Alliance, founded in 1999, sold 6,160,046 vehicles in 2007. The objective of the Alliance is to rank among the world's top three vehicle manufacturers in terms of quality, technology and profitability.
State of Oregon
Gov. Ted Kulongoski has positioned Oregon as a national leader in sustainability. In his first term, he partnered with the states of Washington and California to create the pioneering West Coast Governors Global Warming Initiative, an effort that produced regional strategies to combat global warming for the entire West Coast. He has built upon that, implementing the most ambitious renewable electricity standard in the nation, among the most aggressive alternative fuel standard in the country, and other groundbreaking policies that promote renewable energy, conservation and energy efficiency, many of which have created economic opportunities for the state of Oregon. Because of Gov. Kulongoski's commitment to a greener future, companies and citizens alike look to Oregon for green business opportunities and increased quality of life.
Portland General Electric
Portland General Electric (NYSE: POR - News), headquartered in Portland, Ore., is a fully integrated electric utility that serves approximately 814,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers in Oregon. Visit PGE's Web site at PortlandGeneral.com
Source: Nissan North America, Inc.
LOS ANGELES, Nov. 19 2008 -- The Renault-Nissan Alliance today announced that Nissan and the state of Oregon are forming a partnership to advance zero-emission mobility by promoting the development of an electric vehicle (EV) charging network. Portland General Electric (PGE) also is a participant in the partnership and is working toward the development of an easily accessible and reliable network of charging stations.
The Alliance has committed to being a global leader in zero-emission vehicles (ZEV). Nissan will introduce ZEVs in the United States in 2010 and will mass market ZEVs globally two years later. Ghosn announced the Oregon agreement during an address at the Los Angeles Auto Show.
"This partnership represents a major step toward reliable zero-emission mobility in the state of Oregon," said Carlos Ghosn, President and CEO of Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., and Renault SA,. "Together, we are creating conditions that will encourage consumers to consider an electric vehicle as an attractive choice that is also good for the environment."
The partnership supports Oregon Gov. Theodore Kulongoski's commitment to sustainability, which includes the effort to lead the nation in establishing the infrastructure necessary for a greener transportation system.
"Today's announcement shows that a state can create economic opportunity from its commitment to a greener future and the fight against global warming," Gov. Kulongoski said. "Oregon welcomes Nissan and is pleased to help lead the way in the transition to new, greener vehicle technologies. By partnering with Nissan and Portland General Electric, we can work together to build a consistent and reliable refueling infrastructure so consumers can make the switch to electric vehicles."
As part of the agreement, Nissan has committed to make available a supply of ZEVs to the state of Oregon and work with the state to develop plans to promote the EV Charging Network. The state, in partnership with the Oregon Department of Transportation, has committed to promote the deployment, operation and maintenance of the EV Charging Network by developing specifications for charging stations and seeking agreements with suppliers that may be used by entities such as local governments and utility companies.
The state, under Gov. Kulongoski's leadership, and Nissan are working with PGE towards the creation of the EV charging network. PGE, as part of its plug- in vehicle initiative, is striving to find innovative solutions to Oregon's transportation and energy challenges through the development of a model charging station infrastructure, as well as identifying its infrastructure needs related to vehicle-to-grid technology. Over the past several months, PGE has installed six charging stations- with the capability to charge several dozen vehicles - across the Portland and Salem areas, with more on the way.
"PGE is committed to playing a leadership role to bring this zero-emission transportation option to Oregon residents and businesses," said Peggy Fowler, CEO and president, PGE. "We look forward to sharing technical and educational information in the coming months as we grow our network of stations across the region."
The Renault-Nissan Alliance has begun ZEV initiatives in Israel, Denmark, Portugal, Kanagawa Prefecture (Japan), and with French electric utility company EDF. In the United States, the Alliance also has agreed to a ZEV partnership with the state of Tennessee the Tennessee Valley Authority, and other partners, to explore ways to promote zero-emission mobility in Middle Tennessee.
Nissan North America
In North America, Nissan's operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. Nissan is dedicated to improving the environment under the Nissan Green Program 2010, whose key priorities are reducing CO2 emissions, cutting other emissions and increasing recycling. More information on Nissan in North America and the complete line of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles can be found online at www.NissanUSA.com and www.infiniti.com.
Renault-Nissan Alliance
The Renault-Nissan Alliance, founded in 1999, sold 6,160,046 vehicles in 2007. The objective of the Alliance is to rank among the world's top three vehicle manufacturers in terms of quality, technology and profitability.
State of Oregon
Gov. Ted Kulongoski has positioned Oregon as a national leader in sustainability. In his first term, he partnered with the states of Washington and California to create the pioneering West Coast Governors Global Warming Initiative, an effort that produced regional strategies to combat global warming for the entire West Coast. He has built upon that, implementing the most ambitious renewable electricity standard in the nation, among the most aggressive alternative fuel standard in the country, and other groundbreaking policies that promote renewable energy, conservation and energy efficiency, many of which have created economic opportunities for the state of Oregon. Because of Gov. Kulongoski's commitment to a greener future, companies and citizens alike look to Oregon for green business opportunities and increased quality of life.
Portland General Electric
Portland General Electric (NYSE: POR - News), headquartered in Portland, Ore., is a fully integrated electric utility that serves approximately 814,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers in Oregon. Visit PGE's Web site at PortlandGeneral.com
Source: Nissan North America, Inc.
CLIMATE COUNTS RELEASES BANKING SCORE CARD-Research Shows Some Banks’ Money is Greener Than Others
CLIMATE COUNTS RELEASES BANKING SCORE CARD
Research Shows Some Banks’ Money is Greener Than Others
Energy Efficiency and Savings Key to Survival in Crisis
MANCHESTER, NH – HSBC, Bank of America and CitiGroup are the banks with the best performance on climate issues according to Climate Counts, which released its first scorecard ranking the climate protection efforts of major commercial banks. The scorecard is a reminder to institutions and consumers alike that energy conservation and waste reduction are important cost-saving measures in times of economic uncertainty.
“These challenging times represent a unique opportunity for the financial sector: consumers and investors have known for years that progress on climate issues can help bring down costs, bolster savings and streamline operations,” said Wood Turner, Climate Counts Project Director. “With the coming turnover in Washington, action on global warming is imminent, and financial institutions can be pacesetters on these issues, given growing consumer demand for climate progress even amidst continued economic uncertainty,” he added.
HSBC leads other major banks with a score of 65 out of a possible 100 points, with Bank of America and CitiGroup not far behind with scores of 60 and JP Morgan Chase in third with a score of 59. Three banks managed to earn just a single point, landing them at the bottom of the scorecard: National City, Regions and SunTrust banks.
Climate Counts’ company scores are on a 0-to-100 point scale and based on 22 criteria, measuring companies’ efforts to assess their climate “footprints,” reduce their global warming pollution, support (or oppose) progress on major climate legislation, and communicate their efforts clearly and comprehensively.
The Climate Counts Company Scorecard was developed with oversight from a panel of business and climate experts from leading non-governmental organizations and academic institutions. Criteria were chosen for their effectiveness at accomplishing a single goal – stopping global warming. Climate Counts researchers used these criteria to rate companies based on a point system for climate-related actions. Companies were given the opportunity to confirm and/or provide additional public data sources.
###
About Climate Counts
Climate Counts is a non-profit organization bringing consumers and companies together in the fight against global climate change. It was launched and funded by Stonyfield Farm. Please visit www.climatecounts.org for more information.
Research Shows Some Banks’ Money is Greener Than Others
Energy Efficiency and Savings Key to Survival in Crisis
MANCHESTER, NH – HSBC, Bank of America and CitiGroup are the banks with the best performance on climate issues according to Climate Counts, which released its first scorecard ranking the climate protection efforts of major commercial banks. The scorecard is a reminder to institutions and consumers alike that energy conservation and waste reduction are important cost-saving measures in times of economic uncertainty.
“These challenging times represent a unique opportunity for the financial sector: consumers and investors have known for years that progress on climate issues can help bring down costs, bolster savings and streamline operations,” said Wood Turner, Climate Counts Project Director. “With the coming turnover in Washington, action on global warming is imminent, and financial institutions can be pacesetters on these issues, given growing consumer demand for climate progress even amidst continued economic uncertainty,” he added.
HSBC leads other major banks with a score of 65 out of a possible 100 points, with Bank of America and CitiGroup not far behind with scores of 60 and JP Morgan Chase in third with a score of 59. Three banks managed to earn just a single point, landing them at the bottom of the scorecard: National City, Regions and SunTrust banks.
Climate Counts’ company scores are on a 0-to-100 point scale and based on 22 criteria, measuring companies’ efforts to assess their climate “footprints,” reduce their global warming pollution, support (or oppose) progress on major climate legislation, and communicate their efforts clearly and comprehensively.
The Climate Counts Company Scorecard was developed with oversight from a panel of business and climate experts from leading non-governmental organizations and academic institutions. Criteria were chosen for their effectiveness at accomplishing a single goal – stopping global warming. Climate Counts researchers used these criteria to rate companies based on a point system for climate-related actions. Companies were given the opportunity to confirm and/or provide additional public data sources.
###
About Climate Counts
Climate Counts is a non-profit organization bringing consumers and companies together in the fight against global climate change. It was launched and funded by Stonyfield Farm. Please visit www.climatecounts.org for more information.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
The Future of Renewable Energy and Cleantech under an Obama Administration; Investorideas.com Themes Online Investor Conference for 2009
The Future of Renewable Energy and Cleantech under an Obama Administration; Investorideas.com Themes Online Investor Conference for 2009
Investing in Renewable Energy Stocks for 2009- Solar Stocks, Wind Stocks, Biofuel and Energy Efficiency
POINT ROBERTS, WA –Nov 19, 2008, Investorideas.com, one of the first online investor resources providing in-depth information on renewable energy, cleantech and water sectors announces initial plans for a 2009 online investor conference themed, The Future of Renewable Energy and Cleantech Under an Obama Administration. Investorideas.com and its green investor portals have hosted several online green investor conferences in the past, featuring some of the industry’s leading experts.
The conference format is a one day presentation of leading experts and CEO’s providing insight into the industry with audio/ slide flash media presentations averaging 15 minutes each. The conferences are free to investors, requiring online registration. Tentative dates are late January, early February. Investorideas.com will announce dates and speakers as the conference progresses. To view previous conference formats and speakers: Forums/Conferences Page: http://www1.investorideas.com/Forums/
About Our Green Investor Portals:
http://www.RenewableEnergyStocks.com is one of several green investor portals within Investorideas.com and provides investors with stock news, exclusive articles and financial columnists, audio interviews, investor conferences and a directory of stocks within the renewable energy sector.
Renewable Energy and GreenTech Business and Stock News at Investorideas.com: http://www.investorideas.com/RSS/feeds/RES.xml
Peter Lynch RSS Feed: http://www.investorideas.com/RSS/feeds/PL.xml, Renewable Energy and GreenTech Business and Stock News RSS Feed: http://www.investorideas.com/RSS/feeds/RES.xml
Publish Your Green and Environment News
Your news is featured on Investorideas.com Newswire, Renewable RSS Feeds, Environment Stocks.com, and Greentechinvestor.com & Renewablenergystocks.com
In addition – our Investorideas.com news feeds and Renewable News feeds are distributed on multiple business and industry sites!
http://www1.investorideas.com/NewsUploader/Default.aspx
About InvestorIdeas.com: "One of the first online investor resources providing in-depth information on renewable energy, greentech and water sectors." InvestorIdeas.com is a leading global investor and industry research resource portal specialized in sector investing covering over thirty industry sectors and global markets including China, India, Middle East and Australia.
Become an Investorideas.com Member
With markets and investor sentiment changing daily- it is more important than ever to stay on top of key trends! Gain Exclusive Insight on Leading Sectors, Global Trends, and Insider Trading Ideas, News, Articles and Investor Ideas Members only Restricted Content including the complete renewable energy stocks directory.
Become an InvestorIdeas.com -Learn more: - click here http://www.investorideas.com/membership/
Disclaimer: Our sites do not make recommendations, but offer information portals to research news, articles, stock lists and recent research. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. We attempt to research thoroughly, but we offer no guarantees as to the accuracy of information presented. All Information relating to featured companies is sourced from public documents and/ or the company and is not the opinion of our web sites. This site is currently compensated by featured companies, news submissions and online advertising.
Industry Speakers and Public Companies can request info on presenting :
For more information contact: Dawn Van Zant: 800-665-0411 - dvanzant@investorideas.com or cvanzant@investorideas.com
Investing in Renewable Energy Stocks for 2009- Solar Stocks, Wind Stocks, Biofuel and Energy Efficiency
POINT ROBERTS, WA –Nov 19, 2008, Investorideas.com, one of the first online investor resources providing in-depth information on renewable energy, cleantech and water sectors announces initial plans for a 2009 online investor conference themed, The Future of Renewable Energy and Cleantech Under an Obama Administration. Investorideas.com and its green investor portals have hosted several online green investor conferences in the past, featuring some of the industry’s leading experts.
The conference format is a one day presentation of leading experts and CEO’s providing insight into the industry with audio/ slide flash media presentations averaging 15 minutes each. The conferences are free to investors, requiring online registration. Tentative dates are late January, early February. Investorideas.com will announce dates and speakers as the conference progresses. To view previous conference formats and speakers: Forums/Conferences Page: http://www1.investorideas.com/Forums/
About Our Green Investor Portals:
http://www.RenewableEnergyStocks.com is one of several green investor portals within Investorideas.com and provides investors with stock news, exclusive articles and financial columnists, audio interviews, investor conferences and a directory of stocks within the renewable energy sector.
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Disclaimer: Our sites do not make recommendations, but offer information portals to research news, articles, stock lists and recent research. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. We attempt to research thoroughly, but we offer no guarantees as to the accuracy of information presented. All Information relating to featured companies is sourced from public documents and/ or the company and is not the opinion of our web sites. This site is currently compensated by featured companies, news submissions and online advertising.
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Friday, November 14, 2008
CEO of Algae-to-Oil Technology Company, OriginOil, Inc. (OTCBB: OOIL) Reminds Investors of the Bright Future for Advanced Biofuels
CEO of Algae-to-Oil Technology Company, OriginOil, Inc. (OTCBB: OOIL) Reminds Investors of the Bright Future for Advanced Biofuels
POINT ROBERTS, WA --November 14, 2008 www.RenewableEnergyStocks.com, a leading investor news and research portal for the renewable energy sector within Investorideas.com, announces new featured showcase company OriginOil, Inc: (OTCBB: OOIL), an algae-to-oil technology company.
The company’s technology is an advanced algae growth system that can grow multiple layers of algae biomass around-the-clock with daily harvests. According to the company, growing and harvesting algae on a high volume production basis is the key breakthrough that will allow algae to compete with petroleum.
The US Department of Energy, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy reports, “Algal biofuels are generating considerable interest around the world. They may represent a sustainable pathway for helping to meet the U.S. biofuel production targets set by the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007.” http://www1.eere.energy.gov/biomass/pdfs/algalbiofuels.pdf
Petroleum is a depleting resource. Future sources of oil, the cost of producing it and the price consumers will have to pay for it are extremely uncertain. According to a recent report from the International Energy Agency, “there are growing fears the simultaneous plunge in oil prices and a pullback in spending on exploration and production will result in another massive energy price spike.”
One week earlier, Riggs Eckelberry, President & CEO of OriginOil, Inc. had made the same case. In his presentation to California lawmakers, he noted, “Energy demand is embedded and oil demand will return. If oil investment is neglected now, there will be new scarcity, driving prices much higher.”
“Climate change and CO2 emissions are also driving trends for renewable energy. These factors, as well as future oil shortages, have created excitement in the algae sector, in spite of the recent decline in oil prices”, Mr. Eckelberry went on to state.
“Current trends in energy supply and consumption are patently unsustainable – environmentally, economically and socially – they can and must be altered”, said Nobuo Tanaka, Executive Director of the International Energy Agency. “Rising imports of oil and gas into OECD regions and developing Asia, together with the growing concentration of production in a small number of countries, would increase our susceptibility to supply disruptions and sharp price hikes. At the same time, greenhouse-gas emissions would be driven up inexorably, putting the world on track for an eventual global temperature increase of up to 6°C.”
Company Showcase Profile page: http://www.investorideas.com/co/ooil/
About OriginOil, Inc: (OTCBB: OOIL)
OriginOil, Inc. is developing a breakthrough technology that will transform algae, the most promising source of renewable oil, into a true competitor to petroleum. Much of the world's oil and gas is made up of ancient algae deposits. Today, our technology will produce "new oil" from algae, through a cost-effective, high-speed manufacturing process. This endless supply of new oil can be used for many products such as diesel, gasoline, jet fuel, plastics and solvents without the global warming effects of petroleum. Other oil producing feedstock such as corn and sugarcane often destroy vital farmlands and rainforests, disrupt global food supplies and create new environmental problems. Our unique technology, based on algae, is targeted at fundamentally changing our source of oil without disrupting the environment or food supplies. www.originoil.com.
About InvestorIdeas.com: One of the first online investor resources providing in-depth information on renewable energy, greentech and water sectors.
www.RenewableEnergyStocks.com® is one of several green investor portals within Investorideas.com and provides investors with stock news, exclusive articles and financial columnists, audio interviews, investor conferences, Blogs, and a directory of stocks.
InvestorIdeas.com is a leading global investor and industry research resource portal specialized in sector investing covering over thirty industry sectors and global markets including China, India, Middle East and Australia.
Become an Investorideas.com Member
With markets and investor sentiment changing daily- it is more important than ever to stay on top of key trends! Gain Exclusive Insight on Leading Sectors, Global Trends, and Insider Trading Ideas, News, Articles and Investor Ideas Members only Restricted Content including the complete renewable energy stocks directory.
Become an InvestorIdeas.com -Learn more: - click here http://www.investorideas.com/membership/
Disclaimer: Our sites do not make recommendations, but offer information portals to research news, articles, stock lists and recent research. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. We attempt to research thoroughly, but we offer no guarantees as to the accuracy of information presented. All Information relating to featured companies is sourced from public documents and/ or the company and is not the opinion of our web sites. This site is currently compensated by featured companies, news submissions and online advertising. Disclosure: OOIL is a featured showcase company and compensates Investor Ideas $4000 month .www.InvestorIdeas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp
For more information contact:
Investorideas.com
Dawn Van Zant 800.665.0411
Email: dvanzant@investorideas.com,
Source: RenewableEnergyStocks.com, OriginOil, Inc: (OTCBB: OOIL)
POINT ROBERTS, WA --November 14, 2008 www.RenewableEnergyStocks.com, a leading investor news and research portal for the renewable energy sector within Investorideas.com, announces new featured showcase company OriginOil, Inc: (OTCBB: OOIL), an algae-to-oil technology company.
The company’s technology is an advanced algae growth system that can grow multiple layers of algae biomass around-the-clock with daily harvests. According to the company, growing and harvesting algae on a high volume production basis is the key breakthrough that will allow algae to compete with petroleum.
The US Department of Energy, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy reports, “Algal biofuels are generating considerable interest around the world. They may represent a sustainable pathway for helping to meet the U.S. biofuel production targets set by the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007.” http://www1.eere.energy.gov/biomass/pdfs/algalbiofuels.pdf
Petroleum is a depleting resource. Future sources of oil, the cost of producing it and the price consumers will have to pay for it are extremely uncertain. According to a recent report from the International Energy Agency, “there are growing fears the simultaneous plunge in oil prices and a pullback in spending on exploration and production will result in another massive energy price spike.”
One week earlier, Riggs Eckelberry, President & CEO of OriginOil, Inc. had made the same case. In his presentation to California lawmakers, he noted, “Energy demand is embedded and oil demand will return. If oil investment is neglected now, there will be new scarcity, driving prices much higher.”
“Climate change and CO2 emissions are also driving trends for renewable energy. These factors, as well as future oil shortages, have created excitement in the algae sector, in spite of the recent decline in oil prices”, Mr. Eckelberry went on to state.
“Current trends in energy supply and consumption are patently unsustainable – environmentally, economically and socially – they can and must be altered”, said Nobuo Tanaka, Executive Director of the International Energy Agency. “Rising imports of oil and gas into OECD regions and developing Asia, together with the growing concentration of production in a small number of countries, would increase our susceptibility to supply disruptions and sharp price hikes. At the same time, greenhouse-gas emissions would be driven up inexorably, putting the world on track for an eventual global temperature increase of up to 6°C.”
Company Showcase Profile page: http://www.investorideas.com/co/ooil/
About OriginOil, Inc: (OTCBB: OOIL)
OriginOil, Inc. is developing a breakthrough technology that will transform algae, the most promising source of renewable oil, into a true competitor to petroleum. Much of the world's oil and gas is made up of ancient algae deposits. Today, our technology will produce "new oil" from algae, through a cost-effective, high-speed manufacturing process. This endless supply of new oil can be used for many products such as diesel, gasoline, jet fuel, plastics and solvents without the global warming effects of petroleum. Other oil producing feedstock such as corn and sugarcane often destroy vital farmlands and rainforests, disrupt global food supplies and create new environmental problems. Our unique technology, based on algae, is targeted at fundamentally changing our source of oil without disrupting the environment or food supplies. www.originoil.com.
About InvestorIdeas.com: One of the first online investor resources providing in-depth information on renewable energy, greentech and water sectors.
www.RenewableEnergyStocks.com® is one of several green investor portals within Investorideas.com and provides investors with stock news, exclusive articles and financial columnists, audio interviews, investor conferences, Blogs, and a directory of stocks.
InvestorIdeas.com is a leading global investor and industry research resource portal specialized in sector investing covering over thirty industry sectors and global markets including China, India, Middle East and Australia.
Become an Investorideas.com Member
With markets and investor sentiment changing daily- it is more important than ever to stay on top of key trends! Gain Exclusive Insight on Leading Sectors, Global Trends, and Insider Trading Ideas, News, Articles and Investor Ideas Members only Restricted Content including the complete renewable energy stocks directory.
Become an InvestorIdeas.com -Learn more: - click here http://www.investorideas.com/membership/
Disclaimer: Our sites do not make recommendations, but offer information portals to research news, articles, stock lists and recent research. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. We attempt to research thoroughly, but we offer no guarantees as to the accuracy of information presented. All Information relating to featured companies is sourced from public documents and/ or the company and is not the opinion of our web sites. This site is currently compensated by featured companies, news submissions and online advertising. Disclosure: OOIL is a featured showcase company and compensates Investor Ideas $4000 month .www.InvestorIdeas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp
For more information contact:
Investorideas.com
Dawn Van Zant 800.665.0411
Email: dvanzant@investorideas.com,
Source: RenewableEnergyStocks.com, OriginOil, Inc: (OTCBB: OOIL)
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
New Energy Realities – WEO Calls for Global Energy Revolution Despite Economic Crisis
New Energy Realities – WEO Calls for Global Energy Revolution Despite Economic Crisis
12 November 2008 London -The International Energy Agency (IEA)http://www.iea.org
“We cannot let the financial and economic crisis delay the policy action that is urgently needed to ensure secure energy supplies and to curtail rising emissions of greenhouse gases. We must usher in a global energy revolution by improving energy efficiency and increasing the deployment of low-carbon energy,” said Nobuo Tanaka, Executive Director of the International Energy Agency (IEA) today in London at the launch of the World Energy Outlook (WEO) 2008 – the latest edition of the annual IEA flagship publication. The WEO-2008 provides invaluable analysis to help policy makers around the world assess and address the challenges posed by worsening oil supply prospects, higher energy prices and rising emissions of greenhouse gases.
In the WEO-2008 Reference Scenario, which assumes no new government policies, world primary energy demand grows by 1.6% per year on average between 2006 and 2030 – an increase of 45%. This is slower than projected last year, mainly due to the impact of the economic slowdown, prospects for higher energy prices and some new policy initiatives. Demand for oil rises from 85 million barrels per day now to 106 mb/d in 2030 – 10 mb/d less than projected last year. Demand for coal rises more than any other fuel in absolute terms, accounting for over a third of the increase in energy use. Modern renewables grow most rapidly, overtaking gas to become the second-largest source of electricity soon after 2010. China and India account for over half of incremental energy demand to 2030 while the Middle East emerges as a major new demand centre. The share of the world’s energy consumed in cities grows from two-thirds to almost three-quarters in 2030. Almost all of the increase in fossil-energy production occurs in non-OECD countries. These trends call for energy-supply investment of $26.3 trillion to 2030, or over $1 trillion/year. Yet the credit squeeze could delay spending, potentially setting up a supply-crunch that could choke economic recovery.
“Current trends in energy supply and consumption are patently unsustainable – environmentally, economically and socially – they can and must be altered”, said Nobuo Tanaka. “Rising imports of oil and gas into OECD regions and developing Asia, together with the growing concentration of production in a small number of countries, would increase our susceptibility to supply disruptions and sharp price hikes. At the same time, greenhouse-gas emissions would be driven up inexorably, putting the world on track for an eventual global temperature increase of up to 6°C.”
In addition to providing a comprehensive update of long-term energy projections to 2030, WEO-2008 takes a detailed look at the prospects for oil and gas production. Oil will remain the world’s main source of energy for many years to come, even under the most optimistic of assumptions about the development of alternative technology. But the sources of oil, the cost of producing it and the prices that consumers will have to pay for it are extremely uncertain. “One thing is certain”, stated Mr. Tanaka, “while market imbalances will feed volatility, the era of cheap oil is over”.
“A sea change is underway in the upstream oil and gas industry with international oil companies facing dwindling opportunities to increase their reserves and production. In contrast, national companies are projected to account for about 80% of the increase of both oil and gas production to 2030”, said Mr. Tanaka. But it is far from certain that these companies will be willing to make this investment themselves or to attract sufficient capital to keep up the necessary pace of investment. Upstream investment has been rising rapidly in the last few years, but much of the increase is due to surging costs. Expanding production in the lowest-cost countries – most of them in OPEC – will be central to meeting the world’s oil needs at reasonable cost.
The prospect of accelerating declines in production at individual oilfields is adding to these uncertainties. The findings of an unprecedented field-by-field analysis of the historical production trends of 800 oilfields indicate that decline rates are likely to rise significantly in the long term, from an average of 6.7% today to 8.6% in 2030. “Despite all the attention that is given to demand growth, decline rates are actually a far more important determinant of investment needs. Even if oil demand was to remain flat to 2030, 45 mb/d of gross capacity – roughly four times the current capacity of Saudi Arabia – would need to be built by 2030 just to offset the effect of oilfield decline”, Mr. Tanaka added.
WEO-2008 also analyses policy options for tackling climate change after 2012, when a new global agreement – to be negotiated at the UN Conference of the Parties in Copenhagen next year – is due to take effect. This analysis assumes a hybrid policy approach, comprising a plausible combination of cap-and-trade systems, sectoral agreements and national measures. On current trends, energy-related CO2 emissions are set to increase by 45% between 2006 and 2030, reaching 41 Gt. Three-quarters of the increase arises in China, India and the Middle East, and 97% in non-OECD countries as a whole.
Stabilising greenhouse gas concentration at 550 ppm of CO2-equivalent, which would limit the temperature increase to about 3°C, would require emissions to rise to no more than 33 Gt in 2030 and to fall in the longer term. The share of low-carbon energy – hydropower, nuclear, biomass, other renewables and fossil-fuel power plants equipped with carbon capture and storage (CCS) – in the world primary energy mix would need to expand from 19% in 2006 to 26% in 2030. This would call for $4.1 trillion more investment in energy-related infrastructure and equipment than in the Reference Scenario – equal to 0.2% of annual world GDP. Most of the increase is on the demand side, with $17 per person per year spent worldwide on more efficient cars, appliances and buildings. On the other hand, improved energy efficiency would deliver fuel-cost savings of over $7 trillion.
The scale of the challenge in limiting greenhouse gas concentration to 450 ppm of CO2-eq, which would involve a temperature rise of about 2°C, is much greater. World energy-related CO2 emissions would need to drop sharply from 2020 onwards, reaching less than 26 Gt in 2030. “We would need concerted action from all major emitters. Our analysis shows that OECD countries alone cannot put the world onto a 450-ppm trajectory, even if they were to reduce their emissions to zero”, Mr. Tanaka warned. Achieving such an outcome would require even faster growth in the use of low-carbon energy – to account for 36% of global primary energy mix by 2030. In this case, global energy investment needs are $9.3 trillion (0.6% of annual world GDP) higher; fuel savings total $5.8 trillion.
WEO-2008 demonstrates that measures to curb CO2 emissions will also improve energy security by reducing global fossil-fuel energy use. But the world’s major oil producers should not be alarmed. “Even in the 450 Policy Scenario, OPEC production will need to be 12 mb/d higher in 2030 than today.” Mr. Tanaka noted. “It is clear that the energy sector will have to play the central role in tackling climate change. The analysis set out in this Outlook will provide a solid basis for all countries seeking to negotiate a new global climate deal in Copenhagen.”
Fact sheet PDF- http://www.iea.org/weo/docs/weo2008/fact_sheets_08.pdf
Communication and Information Office: (+33) 1 40 57 65 50 ; e-mail IEAPressOffice@iea.org
12 November 2008 London -The International Energy Agency (IEA)http://www.iea.org
“We cannot let the financial and economic crisis delay the policy action that is urgently needed to ensure secure energy supplies and to curtail rising emissions of greenhouse gases. We must usher in a global energy revolution by improving energy efficiency and increasing the deployment of low-carbon energy,” said Nobuo Tanaka, Executive Director of the International Energy Agency (IEA) today in London at the launch of the World Energy Outlook (WEO) 2008 – the latest edition of the annual IEA flagship publication. The WEO-2008 provides invaluable analysis to help policy makers around the world assess and address the challenges posed by worsening oil supply prospects, higher energy prices and rising emissions of greenhouse gases.
In the WEO-2008 Reference Scenario, which assumes no new government policies, world primary energy demand grows by 1.6% per year on average between 2006 and 2030 – an increase of 45%. This is slower than projected last year, mainly due to the impact of the economic slowdown, prospects for higher energy prices and some new policy initiatives. Demand for oil rises from 85 million barrels per day now to 106 mb/d in 2030 – 10 mb/d less than projected last year. Demand for coal rises more than any other fuel in absolute terms, accounting for over a third of the increase in energy use. Modern renewables grow most rapidly, overtaking gas to become the second-largest source of electricity soon after 2010. China and India account for over half of incremental energy demand to 2030 while the Middle East emerges as a major new demand centre. The share of the world’s energy consumed in cities grows from two-thirds to almost three-quarters in 2030. Almost all of the increase in fossil-energy production occurs in non-OECD countries. These trends call for energy-supply investment of $26.3 trillion to 2030, or over $1 trillion/year. Yet the credit squeeze could delay spending, potentially setting up a supply-crunch that could choke economic recovery.
“Current trends in energy supply and consumption are patently unsustainable – environmentally, economically and socially – they can and must be altered”, said Nobuo Tanaka. “Rising imports of oil and gas into OECD regions and developing Asia, together with the growing concentration of production in a small number of countries, would increase our susceptibility to supply disruptions and sharp price hikes. At the same time, greenhouse-gas emissions would be driven up inexorably, putting the world on track for an eventual global temperature increase of up to 6°C.”
In addition to providing a comprehensive update of long-term energy projections to 2030, WEO-2008 takes a detailed look at the prospects for oil and gas production. Oil will remain the world’s main source of energy for many years to come, even under the most optimistic of assumptions about the development of alternative technology. But the sources of oil, the cost of producing it and the prices that consumers will have to pay for it are extremely uncertain. “One thing is certain”, stated Mr. Tanaka, “while market imbalances will feed volatility, the era of cheap oil is over”.
“A sea change is underway in the upstream oil and gas industry with international oil companies facing dwindling opportunities to increase their reserves and production. In contrast, national companies are projected to account for about 80% of the increase of both oil and gas production to 2030”, said Mr. Tanaka. But it is far from certain that these companies will be willing to make this investment themselves or to attract sufficient capital to keep up the necessary pace of investment. Upstream investment has been rising rapidly in the last few years, but much of the increase is due to surging costs. Expanding production in the lowest-cost countries – most of them in OPEC – will be central to meeting the world’s oil needs at reasonable cost.
The prospect of accelerating declines in production at individual oilfields is adding to these uncertainties. The findings of an unprecedented field-by-field analysis of the historical production trends of 800 oilfields indicate that decline rates are likely to rise significantly in the long term, from an average of 6.7% today to 8.6% in 2030. “Despite all the attention that is given to demand growth, decline rates are actually a far more important determinant of investment needs. Even if oil demand was to remain flat to 2030, 45 mb/d of gross capacity – roughly four times the current capacity of Saudi Arabia – would need to be built by 2030 just to offset the effect of oilfield decline”, Mr. Tanaka added.
WEO-2008 also analyses policy options for tackling climate change after 2012, when a new global agreement – to be negotiated at the UN Conference of the Parties in Copenhagen next year – is due to take effect. This analysis assumes a hybrid policy approach, comprising a plausible combination of cap-and-trade systems, sectoral agreements and national measures. On current trends, energy-related CO2 emissions are set to increase by 45% between 2006 and 2030, reaching 41 Gt. Three-quarters of the increase arises in China, India and the Middle East, and 97% in non-OECD countries as a whole.
Stabilising greenhouse gas concentration at 550 ppm of CO2-equivalent, which would limit the temperature increase to about 3°C, would require emissions to rise to no more than 33 Gt in 2030 and to fall in the longer term. The share of low-carbon energy – hydropower, nuclear, biomass, other renewables and fossil-fuel power plants equipped with carbon capture and storage (CCS) – in the world primary energy mix would need to expand from 19% in 2006 to 26% in 2030. This would call for $4.1 trillion more investment in energy-related infrastructure and equipment than in the Reference Scenario – equal to 0.2% of annual world GDP. Most of the increase is on the demand side, with $17 per person per year spent worldwide on more efficient cars, appliances and buildings. On the other hand, improved energy efficiency would deliver fuel-cost savings of over $7 trillion.
The scale of the challenge in limiting greenhouse gas concentration to 450 ppm of CO2-eq, which would involve a temperature rise of about 2°C, is much greater. World energy-related CO2 emissions would need to drop sharply from 2020 onwards, reaching less than 26 Gt in 2030. “We would need concerted action from all major emitters. Our analysis shows that OECD countries alone cannot put the world onto a 450-ppm trajectory, even if they were to reduce their emissions to zero”, Mr. Tanaka warned. Achieving such an outcome would require even faster growth in the use of low-carbon energy – to account for 36% of global primary energy mix by 2030. In this case, global energy investment needs are $9.3 trillion (0.6% of annual world GDP) higher; fuel savings total $5.8 trillion.
WEO-2008 demonstrates that measures to curb CO2 emissions will also improve energy security by reducing global fossil-fuel energy use. But the world’s major oil producers should not be alarmed. “Even in the 450 Policy Scenario, OPEC production will need to be 12 mb/d higher in 2030 than today.” Mr. Tanaka noted. “It is clear that the energy sector will have to play the central role in tackling climate change. The analysis set out in this Outlook will provide a solid basis for all countries seeking to negotiate a new global climate deal in Copenhagen.”
Fact sheet PDF- http://www.iea.org/weo/docs/weo2008/fact_sheets_08.pdf
Communication and Information Office: (+33) 1 40 57 65 50 ; e-mail IEAPressOffice@iea.org
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Next X Prize: A $10 Billion Renewable Energy 401(k) Challenge?
Next X Prize: A $10 Billion Renewable Energy 401(k) Challenge?
First Company or Corporate team to Generate $10 billion in Renewable Energy Investment via Retirement Plans Could be the Winner of a Proposed New X Prize. Adding a renewable energy sector fund to 401(k) retirement plans will: 1)generate a significant number of new jobs 2)create a healthy economy, 3)increase clean energy production, 4)lower energy costs and combat climate change
Boulder, CO November 11, 2008 -- The X Prize Foundation, creator of the Ansari X Prize for suborbital spaceflight, has launched a contest to design a new X Prize that will boost renewable energy production. A unique entry format requires contestants to pitch their X Prize contest idea via a two minute video (http://www.TheRenewableEnergyInitiative.org) posted to YouTube.
Ken Beitel, a computer systems analyst and documentary film producer ("Grizzlies of the Canadian Rockies" Discovery Channel), has entered the contest and is proposing that the next X Prize be a $10 billion corporate challenge focusing on renewable energy investment. The first round of judging for the contest to design the next X Prize closes Friday (November 14, 2008).
"It will be outstanding for employees to have the opportunity to invest in renewable energy," explains contest entrant Ken Beitel, "Renewable energy is clean, cost effective, fast to build, and is ready to create a significant number of new jobs."
Set against the spectacular backdrop of Colorado National Monument during a desert sunset, the video includes majestic shots of wind turbines and a huge solar power plant. During the video, Beitel explains how retirement plan investment could play a major role in increasing renewable energy production.
The renewable energy sector is also expected to experience rapid expansion under President Elect Barack Obama who backs federal investment in renewable energy, along with regulatory and tax support for clean electricity and alternative fuels. The Obama administration plans to invest $15 billion annually in renewable energy, and sees the industry as a key source of new American jobs. This year in Colorado, Vestas, one of the world's largest wind turbine manufactures, has opened 2 new manufacturing plants that will employ more than 1,300 people.
Beitel acknowledges the tough economic times: "While $10 billion dollars sounds like a lot of retirement dollars to invest in renewable energy, in reality it is only about 1/3 of 1% of the roughly $2.7 trillion dollars in US 401(k) plans."
The proposed "Invest Renewable" X Prize will encourage Fortune 500 and smaller companies in the US and Canada to add a renewable energy sector investment option, such as the Calvert, Guinness Atkinson or Firsthand alternative energy fund to retirement plans. The first company or team of companies to generate $10 billion in renewable energy investment through their corporate retirement plans will split the $10 million X Prize amongst employees who have chosen to invest in renewables.
Ken Beitel is optimistic about his contest entry designing the next X Prize, "The 'Invest Renewable' X Prize will make it possible for employees to invest in the renewable energy sector which will help create a healthy economy and lower energy costs."
The "Invest Renewable" X Prize contest entry can be viewed at http://www.TheRenewableEnergyInitiative.org or http://www.youtube.com/xprize
For more information or to schedule an interview, please contact:
Ken Beitel at 720 436-2465.
Contest video can be used for B-Roll. Stills and video can be downloaded at http://www.TheRenewableEnergyInitiative.org
Courtesy credit GE for use of wind turbine or solar production plant video/stills
Background Information:
About Ken Beitel:
Originally from Calgary, Canada, Ken Beitel currently lives in Boulder, Colorado where he works as Computer Systems Analyst. A passionate environmental communicator, in 1997, Ken was awarded an International Digital Media Award for producing the "Windows On Wildlife" interactive kiosk for Parks Canada and the Calgary Zoo. The multimedia display features the hit game "Eat Like A Grizzly!"
Mr. Beitel used publicity from the 1999 national broadcast of "Grizzlies of the Canadian Rockies" documentary to lead the successful call for the creation of a new protected wilderness area in the mountains adjacent to Banff National Park in Canada. The rugged and spectacular Spray Valley Provincial Park area is featured in the Hollywood "X-Men" feature film series. Ken's hobby is to use his environmental communication talents to promote a rapid societal transition to renewable energy as an effective method of building a healthy economy, securing energy independence and combating climate change.
About the X PRIZE Foundation:
The X PRIZE Foundation is an educational nonprofit prize institute whose mission is to create radical breakthroughs for the benefit of humanity. In 2004, the Foundation captured the world's attention when the Burt Rutan-led team, backed by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, built and flew the world's first private spaceship to win the $10 million Ansari X PRIZE for suborbital spaceflight. The Foundation has since launched the $10 million Archon X PRIZE for Genomics, the $30 million Google Lunar X PRIZE, and the $10 million Progressive Insurance Automotive X PRIZE. The Foundation and its partner BT Global Services are creating prizes in Exploration (Space and Oceans), Life Sciences, Energy & Environment, Education and Global Development. The Foundation is widely recognized as the leading model for fostering innovation through competition. For more information, please visit http://www.xprize.org.
First Company or Corporate team to Generate $10 billion in Renewable Energy Investment via Retirement Plans Could be the Winner of a Proposed New X Prize. Adding a renewable energy sector fund to 401(k) retirement plans will: 1)generate a significant number of new jobs 2)create a healthy economy, 3)increase clean energy production, 4)lower energy costs and combat climate change
Boulder, CO November 11, 2008 -- The X Prize Foundation, creator of the Ansari X Prize for suborbital spaceflight, has launched a contest to design a new X Prize that will boost renewable energy production. A unique entry format requires contestants to pitch their X Prize contest idea via a two minute video (http://www.TheRenewableEnergyInitiative.org) posted to YouTube.
Ken Beitel, a computer systems analyst and documentary film producer ("Grizzlies of the Canadian Rockies" Discovery Channel), has entered the contest and is proposing that the next X Prize be a $10 billion corporate challenge focusing on renewable energy investment. The first round of judging for the contest to design the next X Prize closes Friday (November 14, 2008).
"It will be outstanding for employees to have the opportunity to invest in renewable energy," explains contest entrant Ken Beitel, "Renewable energy is clean, cost effective, fast to build, and is ready to create a significant number of new jobs."
Set against the spectacular backdrop of Colorado National Monument during a desert sunset, the video includes majestic shots of wind turbines and a huge solar power plant. During the video, Beitel explains how retirement plan investment could play a major role in increasing renewable energy production.
The renewable energy sector is also expected to experience rapid expansion under President Elect Barack Obama who backs federal investment in renewable energy, along with regulatory and tax support for clean electricity and alternative fuels. The Obama administration plans to invest $15 billion annually in renewable energy, and sees the industry as a key source of new American jobs. This year in Colorado, Vestas, one of the world's largest wind turbine manufactures, has opened 2 new manufacturing plants that will employ more than 1,300 people.
Beitel acknowledges the tough economic times: "While $10 billion dollars sounds like a lot of retirement dollars to invest in renewable energy, in reality it is only about 1/3 of 1% of the roughly $2.7 trillion dollars in US 401(k) plans."
The proposed "Invest Renewable" X Prize will encourage Fortune 500 and smaller companies in the US and Canada to add a renewable energy sector investment option, such as the Calvert, Guinness Atkinson or Firsthand alternative energy fund to retirement plans. The first company or team of companies to generate $10 billion in renewable energy investment through their corporate retirement plans will split the $10 million X Prize amongst employees who have chosen to invest in renewables.
Ken Beitel is optimistic about his contest entry designing the next X Prize, "The 'Invest Renewable' X Prize will make it possible for employees to invest in the renewable energy sector which will help create a healthy economy and lower energy costs."
The "Invest Renewable" X Prize contest entry can be viewed at http://www.TheRenewableEnergyInitiative.org or http://www.youtube.com/xprize
For more information or to schedule an interview, please contact:
Ken Beitel at 720 436-2465.
Contest video can be used for B-Roll. Stills and video can be downloaded at http://www.TheRenewableEnergyInitiative.org
Courtesy credit GE for use of wind turbine or solar production plant video/stills
Background Information:
About Ken Beitel:
Originally from Calgary, Canada, Ken Beitel currently lives in Boulder, Colorado where he works as Computer Systems Analyst. A passionate environmental communicator, in 1997, Ken was awarded an International Digital Media Award for producing the "Windows On Wildlife" interactive kiosk for Parks Canada and the Calgary Zoo. The multimedia display features the hit game "Eat Like A Grizzly!"
Mr. Beitel used publicity from the 1999 national broadcast of "Grizzlies of the Canadian Rockies" documentary to lead the successful call for the creation of a new protected wilderness area in the mountains adjacent to Banff National Park in Canada. The rugged and spectacular Spray Valley Provincial Park area is featured in the Hollywood "X-Men" feature film series. Ken's hobby is to use his environmental communication talents to promote a rapid societal transition to renewable energy as an effective method of building a healthy economy, securing energy independence and combating climate change.
About the X PRIZE Foundation:
The X PRIZE Foundation is an educational nonprofit prize institute whose mission is to create radical breakthroughs for the benefit of humanity. In 2004, the Foundation captured the world's attention when the Burt Rutan-led team, backed by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, built and flew the world's first private spaceship to win the $10 million Ansari X PRIZE for suborbital spaceflight. The Foundation has since launched the $10 million Archon X PRIZE for Genomics, the $30 million Google Lunar X PRIZE, and the $10 million Progressive Insurance Automotive X PRIZE. The Foundation and its partner BT Global Services are creating prizes in Exploration (Space and Oceans), Life Sciences, Energy & Environment, Education and Global Development. The Foundation is widely recognized as the leading model for fostering innovation through competition. For more information, please visit http://www.xprize.org.
Investorideas.com Green Investor Podcast Series; Interview with CEO of Solar Company, BrightSource Energy, Inc.
Investorideas.com Green Investor Podcast Series; Interview with CEO of Solar Company, BrightSource Energy, Inc.
POINT ROBERTS, Wash. November 11, 2008 - www.InvestorIdeas.com, one of the first online investor resources providing in-depth information on renewable energy, greentech and water, provides an audio interview/Podcast with John Woolard, CEO of a private California-based solar energy company called BrightSource Energy.
The Green Investor Audio series, hosted by well- known financial columnist Michael Brush, who also writes the Insiders Corner for Investorideas.com, is a series of audio interviews/Podcasts with some of the leading CEO's, investment banking and industry leaders in the sector.
The interview took place at the ACORE conference in New York earlier this year.
Investorideas.com Green Investor Audio Series
http://www.investorideas.com/gi/
Podcast Summary:
An Insider’s Outlook on the Potential for Solar Energy: John Woolard, CEO of a private California-based solar energy company called BrightSource Energy, offers his outlook on solar energy.
Listen to Podcast:
http://s3.amazonaws.com/static.investorideas.com/podcasts/2008/gi111108.mp3
Michael Brush writes a weekly market column for MSN Money. Mr. Brush has also covered business and investing for the New York Times, Money magazine and the Economist Group.
Michael also writes the Insiders Corner Exclusively for Investorideas.com.
About BrightSource Energy, Inc.
BrightSource Energy, Inc. designs, builds, finances and operates utility-scale solar power plants
that deliver clean, low-cost solar energy to utility and industrial customers worldwide at prices
that compete with fossil fuels. BrightSource was formed with seed capital from VantagePoint
Venture Partners, which has increased its investment steadily over time. Privately held,
BrightSource is headquartered in Oakland, California.
Luz II Ltd. is a wholly owned subsidiary of BrightSource Energy, Inc. Based in Israel, Luz II is
responsible for solar technology development, plant design and engineering.
Further information about BrightSource Energy and Luz II may be found at
www.brightsourceenergy.com.
About Our Green Investor Portals:
www.RenewableEnergyStocks.com is one of several green investor portals within Investorideas.com and provides investors with stock news, exclusive articles and financial columnists, audio interviews, investor conferences and a directory of stocks within the renewable energy sector.
Renewable Energy and GreenTech Business and Stock News RSS Feed:
http://www.investorideas.com/RSS/feeds/RES.xml
Submit green, cleantech and renewable energy news & press releases
News is featured on Investorideas.com Newswire, Renewable RSS Feeds, and Greentechinvestor.com & Renewablenergystocks.com - click here
http://www.renewableenergystocks.com/NewsUploader/Default.aspx
The Global Green Marketplace at Investorideas.com – a meeting place for investors and business in cleantech: http://www.investorideas.com/marketplace/.
About InvestorIdeas.com:
"One of the first online investor resources providing in-depth information on renewable energy, greentech and water sectors." InvestorIdeas.com is a leading global investor and industry research resource portal specialized in sector investing covering over thirty industry sectors and global markets including China, India, Middle East and Australia.
Become an Investorideas.com Member
With markets and investor sentiment changing daily- it is more important than ever to stay on top of key trends! Gain Exclusive Insight on Leading Sectors, Global Trends, and Insider Trading Ideas, News, Articles and Investor Ideas Members only Restricted Content.
Become an InvestorIdeas.com -Learn more: - click here http://www.investorideas.com/membership/
Disclaimer: Our sites do not make recommendations. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. We attempt to research thoroughly, but we offer no guarantees as to the accuracy of information presented. All Information relating to featured companies is sourced from public documents and/ or the company and is not the opinion of our web sites. This site is currently compensated by featured companies, news submissions and online advertising. www.InvestorIdeas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp
For Additional Information:
Dawn Van Zant: 800-665-0411 - dvanzant@investorideas.com
Source – Investorideas.com
POINT ROBERTS, Wash. November 11, 2008 - www.InvestorIdeas.com, one of the first online investor resources providing in-depth information on renewable energy, greentech and water, provides an audio interview/Podcast with John Woolard, CEO of a private California-based solar energy company called BrightSource Energy.
The Green Investor Audio series, hosted by well- known financial columnist Michael Brush, who also writes the Insiders Corner for Investorideas.com, is a series of audio interviews/Podcasts with some of the leading CEO's, investment banking and industry leaders in the sector.
The interview took place at the ACORE conference in New York earlier this year.
Investorideas.com Green Investor Audio Series
http://www.investorideas.com/gi/
Podcast Summary:
An Insider’s Outlook on the Potential for Solar Energy: John Woolard, CEO of a private California-based solar energy company called BrightSource Energy, offers his outlook on solar energy.
Listen to Podcast:
http://s3.amazonaws.com/static.investorideas.com/podcasts/2008/gi111108.mp3
Michael Brush writes a weekly market column for MSN Money. Mr. Brush has also covered business and investing for the New York Times, Money magazine and the Economist Group.
Michael also writes the Insiders Corner Exclusively for Investorideas.com.
About BrightSource Energy, Inc.
BrightSource Energy, Inc. designs, builds, finances and operates utility-scale solar power plants
that deliver clean, low-cost solar energy to utility and industrial customers worldwide at prices
that compete with fossil fuels. BrightSource was formed with seed capital from VantagePoint
Venture Partners, which has increased its investment steadily over time. Privately held,
BrightSource is headquartered in Oakland, California.
Luz II Ltd. is a wholly owned subsidiary of BrightSource Energy, Inc. Based in Israel, Luz II is
responsible for solar technology development, plant design and engineering.
Further information about BrightSource Energy and Luz II may be found at
www.brightsourceenergy.com.
About Our Green Investor Portals:
www.RenewableEnergyStocks.com is one of several green investor portals within Investorideas.com and provides investors with stock news, exclusive articles and financial columnists, audio interviews, investor conferences and a directory of stocks within the renewable energy sector.
Renewable Energy and GreenTech Business and Stock News RSS Feed:
http://www.investorideas.com/RSS/feeds/RES.xml
Submit green, cleantech and renewable energy news & press releases
News is featured on Investorideas.com Newswire, Renewable RSS Feeds, and Greentechinvestor.com & Renewablenergystocks.com - click here
http://www.renewableenergystocks.com/NewsUploader/Default.aspx
The Global Green Marketplace at Investorideas.com – a meeting place for investors and business in cleantech: http://www.investorideas.com/marketplace/.
About InvestorIdeas.com:
"One of the first online investor resources providing in-depth information on renewable energy, greentech and water sectors." InvestorIdeas.com is a leading global investor and industry research resource portal specialized in sector investing covering over thirty industry sectors and global markets including China, India, Middle East and Australia.
Become an Investorideas.com Member
With markets and investor sentiment changing daily- it is more important than ever to stay on top of key trends! Gain Exclusive Insight on Leading Sectors, Global Trends, and Insider Trading Ideas, News, Articles and Investor Ideas Members only Restricted Content.
Become an InvestorIdeas.com -Learn more: - click here http://www.investorideas.com/membership/
Disclaimer: Our sites do not make recommendations. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. We attempt to research thoroughly, but we offer no guarantees as to the accuracy of information presented. All Information relating to featured companies is sourced from public documents and/ or the company and is not the opinion of our web sites. This site is currently compensated by featured companies, news submissions and online advertising. www.InvestorIdeas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp
For Additional Information:
Dawn Van Zant: 800-665-0411 - dvanzant@investorideas.com
Source – Investorideas.com
Monday, November 10, 2008
SunPower and Ecoware Sign 130 Megawatt, Four-Year Customer Agreement
SunPower and Ecoware Sign 130 Megawatt, Four-Year Customer Agreement
SAN JOSE, Calif., Nov. 10 2008 -- SunPower Corporation (Nasdaq: SPWRA, SPWRB), a Silicon Valley-based manufacturer of high-efficiency solar cells, solar panels and solar systems, today announced it has signed a customer contract with Italian solar plant integrator Ecoware, S.p.A.
Under the terms of the agreement, SunPower will provide Ecoware with at least 130 megawatts of its high-efficiency solar panels over the next four years. Ecoware will begin receiving SunPower's solar panels under the agreement in the first quarter of 2009.
"As electric rates continue to rise, SunPower recognizes the long-term growth opportunity for solar power in Italy and throughout Europe," said Howard Wenger, SunPower's president, global business units. "SunPower's high-efficiency solar panels improve the energy delivery and will lower the levelized cost of energy of Ecoware's ground mounted trackers."
Ecoware is a leading Italian systems integrator, designing turn-key power plant solutions. It manufactures dual-axis ground mounted tracker systems, and has designed and installed many solar parks throughout Italy. Ecoware also plans to expand its business into Southern and Eastern Europe.
"SunPower's high-efficiency solar panels maximize the energy output from each of our proprietary ground-mounted tracker systems by up to 50 percent when compared to conventional solar panels," said Leopoldo Franceschini, president of Ecoware. "Italy's abundant sunshine and strong support for solar power offer us the opportunity to substantially expand our operations as one of Italy's leading solar integrators."
About SunPower
SunPower Corporation (Nasdaq: SPWRA, SPWRB) designs, manufactures and delivers high-performance solar electric systems worldwide for residential, commercial and utility-scale power plant customers. SunPower high-efficiency solar cells and solar panels generate up to 50 percent more power than conventional solar technologies and have a uniquely attractive, all-black appearance. With headquarters in San Jose, Calif., SunPower has offices in North America, Europe, Australia, and Asia. For more information, visit http://www.sunpowercorp.com.
About Ecoware
Ecoware (belonging to Kerself Group, listed on the Italian Stock Exchange - Expandi Market), a leading Italian turn-key PV contractor, designs, manufactures and installs commercial and utility-scale power plants with its brand of bankable fixed and biaxial solutions. Member of Kerself Group, Ecoware offers a truly unique range of services including well established scouting operations in Italy and is expanding into both Southern and Eastern European markets. Ecoware headquarters are in Padua, Italy, forty minutes from Venice, Marco Polo Airport. For more information, visit http://www.ecoware.eu.
Forward-Looking Statement
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are statements that do not represent historical facts. We use words such as "growing," "will," "continue," "plan," "expand," and similar expressions to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to, our plans and expectations regarding (a) the growing demand for solar and the long term growth opportunity for solar power in Italy and throughout Europe, (b) electrical rates continuing to rise, (c) providing Ecoware with at least 130 megawatts of its high-efficiency solar panels over the next four years, beginning in the first quarter of 2009, (d) lowering the levelized cost of energy of Ecoware's ground mounted trackers, and (e) Ecoware's expansion plans into Southern and Eastern Europe. These forward-looking statements are based on information available to the company as of the date of this release and management's current expectations, forecasts and assumptions, and involve a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated by these forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include a variety of factors, some of which are beyond the company's control. In particular, risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ include: (i) the company's ability to obtain and maintain an adequate supply of polysilicon, ingots, wafers and other materials, components and products to manufacture its component products; (ii) business and economic conditions, including the current uncertain economic environment and credit crisis, and growth trends in the solar power industry; (iii) the continuation of governmental and related economic incentives promoting the use of solar power; (iv) the continued availability of third-party financing arrangements for the company's and Ecoware's customers; (v) construction difficulties or potential delays in the project implementation process, including transmission access and upgrades; (vi) unanticipated delays or difficulties securing necessary permits, licenses or other governmental approvals; (vii) the risk of continuation of supply of products and components from suppliers; (viii) unanticipated problems with deploying the system on the sites; (ix) the company's ability to ramp new production lines and realize expected manufacturing efficiencies; (x) unforeseen manufacturing equipment delays at the company's fabrication facilities and panel factories; (xi) the company's ability to utilize thinner wafers, reduce kerf loss and otherwise achieve anticipated improvements in polysilicon usage efficiency; (xii) production difficulties that could arise; (xiii) the success of the company's ongoing research and development efforts; (xiv) the company's ability to compete with other companies and competing technologies; (xv) liquidated damages or customer refunds for late installations arising on large scale solar projects (xvi) unanticipated changes in the mix of balance of systems sales; (xvii) unanticipated volatility in market rates for electricity; and (xviii) other risks described in the company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 28, 2008, and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing the company's views as of any subsequent date, and the company is under no obligation to, and expressly disclaims any responsibility to, update or alter its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
SunPower is a registered trademark of SunPower Corp. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
SOURCE SunPower Corporation
SAN JOSE, Calif., Nov. 10 2008 -- SunPower Corporation (Nasdaq: SPWRA, SPWRB), a Silicon Valley-based manufacturer of high-efficiency solar cells, solar panels and solar systems, today announced it has signed a customer contract with Italian solar plant integrator Ecoware, S.p.A.
Under the terms of the agreement, SunPower will provide Ecoware with at least 130 megawatts of its high-efficiency solar panels over the next four years. Ecoware will begin receiving SunPower's solar panels under the agreement in the first quarter of 2009.
"As electric rates continue to rise, SunPower recognizes the long-term growth opportunity for solar power in Italy and throughout Europe," said Howard Wenger, SunPower's president, global business units. "SunPower's high-efficiency solar panels improve the energy delivery and will lower the levelized cost of energy of Ecoware's ground mounted trackers."
Ecoware is a leading Italian systems integrator, designing turn-key power plant solutions. It manufactures dual-axis ground mounted tracker systems, and has designed and installed many solar parks throughout Italy. Ecoware also plans to expand its business into Southern and Eastern Europe.
"SunPower's high-efficiency solar panels maximize the energy output from each of our proprietary ground-mounted tracker systems by up to 50 percent when compared to conventional solar panels," said Leopoldo Franceschini, president of Ecoware. "Italy's abundant sunshine and strong support for solar power offer us the opportunity to substantially expand our operations as one of Italy's leading solar integrators."
About SunPower
SunPower Corporation (Nasdaq: SPWRA, SPWRB) designs, manufactures and delivers high-performance solar electric systems worldwide for residential, commercial and utility-scale power plant customers. SunPower high-efficiency solar cells and solar panels generate up to 50 percent more power than conventional solar technologies and have a uniquely attractive, all-black appearance. With headquarters in San Jose, Calif., SunPower has offices in North America, Europe, Australia, and Asia. For more information, visit http://www.sunpowercorp.com.
About Ecoware
Ecoware (belonging to Kerself Group, listed on the Italian Stock Exchange - Expandi Market), a leading Italian turn-key PV contractor, designs, manufactures and installs commercial and utility-scale power plants with its brand of bankable fixed and biaxial solutions. Member of Kerself Group, Ecoware offers a truly unique range of services including well established scouting operations in Italy and is expanding into both Southern and Eastern European markets. Ecoware headquarters are in Padua, Italy, forty minutes from Venice, Marco Polo Airport. For more information, visit http://www.ecoware.eu.
Forward-Looking Statement
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are statements that do not represent historical facts. We use words such as "growing," "will," "continue," "plan," "expand," and similar expressions to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to, our plans and expectations regarding (a) the growing demand for solar and the long term growth opportunity for solar power in Italy and throughout Europe, (b) electrical rates continuing to rise, (c) providing Ecoware with at least 130 megawatts of its high-efficiency solar panels over the next four years, beginning in the first quarter of 2009, (d) lowering the levelized cost of energy of Ecoware's ground mounted trackers, and (e) Ecoware's expansion plans into Southern and Eastern Europe. These forward-looking statements are based on information available to the company as of the date of this release and management's current expectations, forecasts and assumptions, and involve a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated by these forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include a variety of factors, some of which are beyond the company's control. In particular, risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ include: (i) the company's ability to obtain and maintain an adequate supply of polysilicon, ingots, wafers and other materials, components and products to manufacture its component products; (ii) business and economic conditions, including the current uncertain economic environment and credit crisis, and growth trends in the solar power industry; (iii) the continuation of governmental and related economic incentives promoting the use of solar power; (iv) the continued availability of third-party financing arrangements for the company's and Ecoware's customers; (v) construction difficulties or potential delays in the project implementation process, including transmission access and upgrades; (vi) unanticipated delays or difficulties securing necessary permits, licenses or other governmental approvals; (vii) the risk of continuation of supply of products and components from suppliers; (viii) unanticipated problems with deploying the system on the sites; (ix) the company's ability to ramp new production lines and realize expected manufacturing efficiencies; (x) unforeseen manufacturing equipment delays at the company's fabrication facilities and panel factories; (xi) the company's ability to utilize thinner wafers, reduce kerf loss and otherwise achieve anticipated improvements in polysilicon usage efficiency; (xii) production difficulties that could arise; (xiii) the success of the company's ongoing research and development efforts; (xiv) the company's ability to compete with other companies and competing technologies; (xv) liquidated damages or customer refunds for late installations arising on large scale solar projects (xvi) unanticipated changes in the mix of balance of systems sales; (xvii) unanticipated volatility in market rates for electricity; and (xviii) other risks described in the company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 28, 2008, and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing the company's views as of any subsequent date, and the company is under no obligation to, and expressly disclaims any responsibility to, update or alter its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
SunPower is a registered trademark of SunPower Corp. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
SOURCE SunPower Corporation
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
An ideal cleantech environment- the three basic macro trends behind the cleantech investment thesis remain wholly intact
Reprinted with permission from author- I thought this was a great article - reminding us of the key drivers behind investing in the sector. The general financial media focuses very short term and has forgotten about global warming in the midst of the economic crisis
An ideal cleantech environment- the three basic macro trends behind the cleantech investment thesis remain wholly intact
By Glen Schwaber- Israel Cleantech Ventures http://www.israelcleantech.com/
Now is a perfect time for Israeli cleantech entrepreneurs..
Crude oil has plummeted over 55% since it peaked at $147 in mid-July. Credit markets, necessary for large scale project finance in solar, wind, and water, have dried up. As of October 16th, the Goldman Sachs Renewables Composite was down 59% for the year, almost twice the drop in the Nasdaq and S&P 500 indexes. Q-Cells, one of the darlings of the solar industry is down nearly 60% in the last month alone, trading at just 24% of its peak value. M&A values will surely drop in tandem with the stock currency of the acquirers and the IPO window is shut completely. Meanwhile, rhetoric by world leaders on climate change is beginning to factor in the challenge of maintaining policy goals in the face of broader economic concerns.
So why are we not stopping our investments or recommending that our portfolio company CEOs stop theirs? The reason is simple. Banking crisis notwithstanding, the fundamental drivers of cleantech innovation have not changed one iota in the past few months.
Mean temperatures on the planet have not suddenly fallen with the stock market. Melting glaciers have not frozen up like the market for sub-prime loans. Endangered species have not stopped going extinct. People haven’t stopped needing to drink clean water. Nor have they ceased using electricity or driving their cars. Nor have they stopped having babies. And the Iranians have not suddenly become our friends.
Put another way, the three basic macro trends behind the cleantech investment thesis remain wholly intact:
Climate change is real and is unfortunately here to stay. Global mean temperatures have already risen in close correlation to greenhouse gas emissions / carbon dioxide equivalents. The pace of carbon dioxide emissions is still accelerating. We are already at over 384 parts per million of CO2 in the atmosphere, where we haven’t been for millions of years and are on pace to warm our planet by an additional 2 degrees Celsius by mid-century, with resulting known and unforeseeable changes to sea levels, weather patterns, and humankind’s living conditions on earth.
The world’s population is rising at a remarkable pace. There are about 6.7 billion people on earth today, with projections reaching 9.2 billion by 2050. Even more significant than the raw population growth, the number of people moving to cities in search of a middle-class livelihood afforded through industrialization and economic growth has accelerated rapidly. According to the UN, by 2015 (which is just around the corner and is incidentally well within the 10 year time frame of a new cleantech venture fund) there will be 26 cities with 10 million people or more. In 1975, the number of these “mega-cities” was just 5. More people, particularly more middle class urban people mean far greater consumption of natural resources, potable water, and energy.
The West is dependent on oil and natural gas supplies from unstable and unpredictable regimes, some of whom are using oil revenues to fund terrorism and war. Regardless of whether oil is at $140 per barrel or $40 per barrel, the Western industrialized world is dependent on OPEC supplies and is therefore stuck in the position of funding some of its own worst enemies.
Taken together, these three drivers will continue to push policy, innovation, and investment in cleantech over the coming years. But even in the short term, we have already seen at least two encouraging signals about the future direction of the cleantech industry. First, on the policy side, it is noteworthy that the $700 billion Emergency Economic Stabilization Act passed in the US, included a tax extenders bill containing several tax breaks and incentives for renewable energy and clean technologies.
This $17 Billion bill mandates an eight year extension of the investment tax credits (ITC) for all solar systems, and removes the $2,000 cap on residential systems. Passage of this bill gave long-awaited certainty to the solar markets in the US with both residential and utility scale solar companies set to benefit. In addition, the bill offers substantial incentives for wind, biofuels, and fuel cells. This is likely just a first step toward a more active US national policy approach towards renewables, given that President-elect Barak Obama supports carbon mitigation legislation at the federal level. And with the US consuming nearly 25% of the world’s energy, once the federal government starts putting effective price signals in place, the pace of cleantech innovation is likely to balloon.
A second encouraging sign came in the form of GE’s public announcement on October 20th, which included results and expectations from its environmental business. Despite the economic downturn, GE said it expects 2008 revenue from its energy efficiency products to increase by 21% to $17 billion since last year. Its annual investment in cleaner research and development will surpass $1.4 billion, a $300M increase over last year. GE also said it has cut greenhouse gas emissions from its own operations by 8%, from about 7.7 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent, since 2004. Energy cost savings to GE have so far been $100 million. "There is a green lining among the current economic storm clouds and GE customers and investors are benefiting," said Jeff Immelt, GE’s CEO. "Cleaner innovation and technology resonate in the marketplace, while we slash our own energy and water costs and emissions, further strengthening GE's competitive position and the advantage GE offers to its customers."
GE is betting its future on cleantech innovation, and they are not the only large company doing so. Policymakers in Washington extended renewable energy tax credits for 8 years and that is likely just a prelude to more far-reaching national legislation. So yes, in the short term, cleantech markets will likely be jittery as a result of financial volatility and the precipitous decline in oil prices. A reduction in the price of oil will go hand in hand with reductions in the price of natural gas and even coal-generated electricity. The immediate impetus for change at the consumer level may ease as energy bills come down.
Later stage cleantech companies that were counting on access to public markets or significant debt financing to fund their future growth are going to have a challenging time ahead. We can expect a drop in cleantech VC investments in Q4, as compared to Q3, and likely continuing into 2009. But the bigger picture is that unlike with previous oil price declines, this time the larger, more sustained drivers for cleantech innovation are not likely to disappear from the consciousness of policymakers and industrial giants.
To conclude, let me put things into a slightly more personal perspective. When we completed the first closing of Israel Cleantech Ventures in January 2007, oil prices were at $55 per barrel. At the time, that price was considered relatively high. We have now made nine investments and, despite the unprecedented drop in commodity prices of late, oil still has not returned to that price point. Yet just since January 2007, we humans have emitted about 50 billion additional metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalents into the atmosphere, increased the world’s population by 150 million people (that’s about 20x Israel’s total population), and provided OPEC (including countries like Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Libya) with $1.6 trillion worth of oil revenues (that’s the equivalent of 10x Israel’s GDP).
Needless to say, the motivating forces behind cleantech are here to stay. In fact, as former President Bill Clinton recently remarked, once we stop looking to make money out of money and go back to making money out of business innovation, the cleantech industry will be at the center of that innovation, leading us out of recession and into the next great phase of economic growth. Now, more than ever, is a perfect time for Israeli cleantech entrepreneurs to start new businesses and to secure this country’s part in that next great phase of growth.
The author is a partner at Israel Cleantech Ventures. http://www.israelcleantech.com/
An ideal cleantech environment- the three basic macro trends behind the cleantech investment thesis remain wholly intact
By Glen Schwaber- Israel Cleantech Ventures http://www.israelcleantech.com/
Now is a perfect time for Israeli cleantech entrepreneurs..
Crude oil has plummeted over 55% since it peaked at $147 in mid-July. Credit markets, necessary for large scale project finance in solar, wind, and water, have dried up. As of October 16th, the Goldman Sachs Renewables Composite was down 59% for the year, almost twice the drop in the Nasdaq and S&P 500 indexes. Q-Cells, one of the darlings of the solar industry is down nearly 60% in the last month alone, trading at just 24% of its peak value. M&A values will surely drop in tandem with the stock currency of the acquirers and the IPO window is shut completely. Meanwhile, rhetoric by world leaders on climate change is beginning to factor in the challenge of maintaining policy goals in the face of broader economic concerns.
So why are we not stopping our investments or recommending that our portfolio company CEOs stop theirs? The reason is simple. Banking crisis notwithstanding, the fundamental drivers of cleantech innovation have not changed one iota in the past few months.
Mean temperatures on the planet have not suddenly fallen with the stock market. Melting glaciers have not frozen up like the market for sub-prime loans. Endangered species have not stopped going extinct. People haven’t stopped needing to drink clean water. Nor have they ceased using electricity or driving their cars. Nor have they stopped having babies. And the Iranians have not suddenly become our friends.
Put another way, the three basic macro trends behind the cleantech investment thesis remain wholly intact:
Climate change is real and is unfortunately here to stay. Global mean temperatures have already risen in close correlation to greenhouse gas emissions / carbon dioxide equivalents. The pace of carbon dioxide emissions is still accelerating. We are already at over 384 parts per million of CO2 in the atmosphere, where we haven’t been for millions of years and are on pace to warm our planet by an additional 2 degrees Celsius by mid-century, with resulting known and unforeseeable changes to sea levels, weather patterns, and humankind’s living conditions on earth.
The world’s population is rising at a remarkable pace. There are about 6.7 billion people on earth today, with projections reaching 9.2 billion by 2050. Even more significant than the raw population growth, the number of people moving to cities in search of a middle-class livelihood afforded through industrialization and economic growth has accelerated rapidly. According to the UN, by 2015 (which is just around the corner and is incidentally well within the 10 year time frame of a new cleantech venture fund) there will be 26 cities with 10 million people or more. In 1975, the number of these “mega-cities” was just 5. More people, particularly more middle class urban people mean far greater consumption of natural resources, potable water, and energy.
The West is dependent on oil and natural gas supplies from unstable and unpredictable regimes, some of whom are using oil revenues to fund terrorism and war. Regardless of whether oil is at $140 per barrel or $40 per barrel, the Western industrialized world is dependent on OPEC supplies and is therefore stuck in the position of funding some of its own worst enemies.
Taken together, these three drivers will continue to push policy, innovation, and investment in cleantech over the coming years. But even in the short term, we have already seen at least two encouraging signals about the future direction of the cleantech industry. First, on the policy side, it is noteworthy that the $700 billion Emergency Economic Stabilization Act passed in the US, included a tax extenders bill containing several tax breaks and incentives for renewable energy and clean technologies.
This $17 Billion bill mandates an eight year extension of the investment tax credits (ITC) for all solar systems, and removes the $2,000 cap on residential systems. Passage of this bill gave long-awaited certainty to the solar markets in the US with both residential and utility scale solar companies set to benefit. In addition, the bill offers substantial incentives for wind, biofuels, and fuel cells. This is likely just a first step toward a more active US national policy approach towards renewables, given that President-elect Barak Obama supports carbon mitigation legislation at the federal level. And with the US consuming nearly 25% of the world’s energy, once the federal government starts putting effective price signals in place, the pace of cleantech innovation is likely to balloon.
A second encouraging sign came in the form of GE’s public announcement on October 20th, which included results and expectations from its environmental business. Despite the economic downturn, GE said it expects 2008 revenue from its energy efficiency products to increase by 21% to $17 billion since last year. Its annual investment in cleaner research and development will surpass $1.4 billion, a $300M increase over last year. GE also said it has cut greenhouse gas emissions from its own operations by 8%, from about 7.7 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent, since 2004. Energy cost savings to GE have so far been $100 million. "There is a green lining among the current economic storm clouds and GE customers and investors are benefiting," said Jeff Immelt, GE’s CEO. "Cleaner innovation and technology resonate in the marketplace, while we slash our own energy and water costs and emissions, further strengthening GE's competitive position and the advantage GE offers to its customers."
GE is betting its future on cleantech innovation, and they are not the only large company doing so. Policymakers in Washington extended renewable energy tax credits for 8 years and that is likely just a prelude to more far-reaching national legislation. So yes, in the short term, cleantech markets will likely be jittery as a result of financial volatility and the precipitous decline in oil prices. A reduction in the price of oil will go hand in hand with reductions in the price of natural gas and even coal-generated electricity. The immediate impetus for change at the consumer level may ease as energy bills come down.
Later stage cleantech companies that were counting on access to public markets or significant debt financing to fund their future growth are going to have a challenging time ahead. We can expect a drop in cleantech VC investments in Q4, as compared to Q3, and likely continuing into 2009. But the bigger picture is that unlike with previous oil price declines, this time the larger, more sustained drivers for cleantech innovation are not likely to disappear from the consciousness of policymakers and industrial giants.
To conclude, let me put things into a slightly more personal perspective. When we completed the first closing of Israel Cleantech Ventures in January 2007, oil prices were at $55 per barrel. At the time, that price was considered relatively high. We have now made nine investments and, despite the unprecedented drop in commodity prices of late, oil still has not returned to that price point. Yet just since January 2007, we humans have emitted about 50 billion additional metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalents into the atmosphere, increased the world’s population by 150 million people (that’s about 20x Israel’s total population), and provided OPEC (including countries like Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Libya) with $1.6 trillion worth of oil revenues (that’s the equivalent of 10x Israel’s GDP).
Needless to say, the motivating forces behind cleantech are here to stay. In fact, as former President Bill Clinton recently remarked, once we stop looking to make money out of money and go back to making money out of business innovation, the cleantech industry will be at the center of that innovation, leading us out of recession and into the next great phase of economic growth. Now, more than ever, is a perfect time for Israeli cleantech entrepreneurs to start new businesses and to secure this country’s part in that next great phase of growth.
The author is a partner at Israel Cleantech Ventures. http://www.israelcleantech.com/
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