Investing In a Better World; Renewable Energy, Cleantech and Water Industry and Investing Affiliate Program
Affiliate websites in the sector can now feature stock directories in cleantech
POINT ROBERTS, Wash., Delta B.C., January 18 2009 - www.InvestorIdeas.com, and its global investor and industry Greentech portals announce the launch of a new affiliate program for renewable energy, green and water industry and investing websites.
Affiliate websites in the sector can now feature memberships to access investing info and stock directories in cleantech.
Investor Ideas was one of the first investor websites covering renewable energy and water investing and is known as a global destination for research tools and resources. Affiliates can now offer the research directories as an added tool to their site visitors and members, as well as create a new online revenue stream.
Investor Ideas memberships includes access to restricted content at the Water Stocks Directory, Renewable Energy Stocks Directory, the Biotech Stocks Directory, Defense Stocks Directory and the Insiders Corner by Michael Brush. New content and features are added regularly and each stock directory is updated monthly with additions and changes.
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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 within the renewable energy sector.
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News & Stories Published at Clean Energy Stocks Blog
Research Renewable Energy and Cleantech stocks as an Investor Ideas member and gain access to the stock directories. Learn More:http://www.investorideas.com/membership/
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Sunday, January 18, 2009
Massachusetts Moves Closer to Having Nation’s First Offshore Wind Farm and More Secure Energy
Massachusetts Moves Closer to Having Nation’s First Offshore Wind Farm and More Secure Energy
Future Cape Wind Project Draws Near As Final Report Released
BOSTON- After seven and a half years of comprehensive environmental review, scores of public hearings and community meetings, and energy challenges that make Cape Wind more essential now than when it was first proposed in 2001, the lead agency in charge of offshore energy projects today released its 2,800-page Final Environmental Impact Statement on Cape Wind.
“This report validates the project will create new jobs, increase energy independence and fight global warming while being a good neighbor to the ecosystem of Nantucket Sound,” said the project’s developer, Jim Gordon. “Massachusetts is one major step closer to becoming home to America’s first offshore wind farm and becoming a global leader in the production of offshore renewable energy,” Gordon added. “This moment would not have arrived without the steadfast support of environmental, labor, health and citizen advocacy groups throughout the region and I want to thank them for the important role they have played throughout this public process.”
From the Minerals Management Service (MMS) Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS):
Horseshoe Shoal in Nantucket Sound is environmentally and economically superior to the alternative site locations that were studied. Cape Wind will reduce regional air pollution emissions of sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide and mercury, pollutants that harm human health. Cape Wind will reduce regional greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change by 880,000 tons per year. Building Cape Wind will create hundreds of jobs and generate over a half-billion dollars in non-labor purchases in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Cape Wind will not increase energy prices in New England and could help to lower energy clearing prices. Most of Cape Wind’s electricity will be consumed on Cape Cod and the Islands where it will supply ¾ of that region’s electricity and improve electric transmission performance. Cape Wind will have a substantial positive impact on electrical generating capacity and help Massachusetts achieve its renewable energy requirements under the State’s Renewable Portfolio Standard. Cape Wind will have no major impacts on navigation, fishing, or tourism. Now that the MMS has issued the FEIS, its Record of Decision on granting a lease to Cape Wind could come within 30 days. According to the MMS FEIS its, “...final decision would account for the regional, state, and local benefits and impacts as well as for the overall public interest of the United States.”
The FEIS comes one year after MMS issued a Draft EIS which generated over 42,000 written public comments, over 40,000 of which were in support of the project. Prior to the MMS becoming the lead Federal Reviewing Agency, the US Army Corps of Engineers issued a comprehensive 3,800-page DEIS on Cape Wind in November, 2004 that found significant public benefits and few impacts.
In March, 2007, Secretary of the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs Ian A. Bowles certified that Cape Wind’s environmental impact report on the proposed transmission lines adequately and properly complied with the statutory requirements of the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act. At that time, Secretary Bowles noted that Cape Wind’s impact on reducing greenhouse gas emissions was the equivalent of removing 175,000 cars off the road each year.
In 2005, the Massachusetts Energy Facilities Sting Board approved Cape Wind’s application after a 32-month review that included 2,900 pages of transcripts, 923 exhibits and 50,000 pages of documentary evidence. The Siting Board found that Cape Wind would meet an identified need for electricity and would provide a reliable energy supply for Massachusetts, with a minimum impact on the environment at the least cost. The Siting Board’s approval was later upheld by the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court.
Cape Wind officials expect to complete the permitting process by March, 2009.
Cape Wind’s proposal to build America’s first offshore wind farm on Horseshoe Shoal would provide three-quarters of the electricity used on Cape Cod and the Islands from clean, renewable energy - reducing this region’s need to import oil, coal and gas. Cape Wind will create new jobs, stable electric costs, contribute to a healthier environment, increase energy independence and establish Massachusetts as a leader in offshore wind power. For more information visit www.capewind.org.
Contacts For Cape Wind
News & Stories Published at Clean Energy Stocks Blog
Research Renewable Energy and Cleantech stocks as an Investor Ideas member and gain access to the stock directories. Learn More:http://www.investorideas.com/membership/
Future Cape Wind Project Draws Near As Final Report Released
BOSTON- After seven and a half years of comprehensive environmental review, scores of public hearings and community meetings, and energy challenges that make Cape Wind more essential now than when it was first proposed in 2001, the lead agency in charge of offshore energy projects today released its 2,800-page Final Environmental Impact Statement on Cape Wind.
“This report validates the project will create new jobs, increase energy independence and fight global warming while being a good neighbor to the ecosystem of Nantucket Sound,” said the project’s developer, Jim Gordon. “Massachusetts is one major step closer to becoming home to America’s first offshore wind farm and becoming a global leader in the production of offshore renewable energy,” Gordon added. “This moment would not have arrived without the steadfast support of environmental, labor, health and citizen advocacy groups throughout the region and I want to thank them for the important role they have played throughout this public process.”
From the Minerals Management Service (MMS) Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS):
Horseshoe Shoal in Nantucket Sound is environmentally and economically superior to the alternative site locations that were studied. Cape Wind will reduce regional air pollution emissions of sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide and mercury, pollutants that harm human health. Cape Wind will reduce regional greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change by 880,000 tons per year. Building Cape Wind will create hundreds of jobs and generate over a half-billion dollars in non-labor purchases in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Cape Wind will not increase energy prices in New England and could help to lower energy clearing prices. Most of Cape Wind’s electricity will be consumed on Cape Cod and the Islands where it will supply ¾ of that region’s electricity and improve electric transmission performance. Cape Wind will have a substantial positive impact on electrical generating capacity and help Massachusetts achieve its renewable energy requirements under the State’s Renewable Portfolio Standard. Cape Wind will have no major impacts on navigation, fishing, or tourism. Now that the MMS has issued the FEIS, its Record of Decision on granting a lease to Cape Wind could come within 30 days. According to the MMS FEIS its, “...final decision would account for the regional, state, and local benefits and impacts as well as for the overall public interest of the United States.”
The FEIS comes one year after MMS issued a Draft EIS which generated over 42,000 written public comments, over 40,000 of which were in support of the project. Prior to the MMS becoming the lead Federal Reviewing Agency, the US Army Corps of Engineers issued a comprehensive 3,800-page DEIS on Cape Wind in November, 2004 that found significant public benefits and few impacts.
In March, 2007, Secretary of the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs Ian A. Bowles certified that Cape Wind’s environmental impact report on the proposed transmission lines adequately and properly complied with the statutory requirements of the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act. At that time, Secretary Bowles noted that Cape Wind’s impact on reducing greenhouse gas emissions was the equivalent of removing 175,000 cars off the road each year.
In 2005, the Massachusetts Energy Facilities Sting Board approved Cape Wind’s application after a 32-month review that included 2,900 pages of transcripts, 923 exhibits and 50,000 pages of documentary evidence. The Siting Board found that Cape Wind would meet an identified need for electricity and would provide a reliable energy supply for Massachusetts, with a minimum impact on the environment at the least cost. The Siting Board’s approval was later upheld by the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court.
Cape Wind officials expect to complete the permitting process by March, 2009.
Cape Wind’s proposal to build America’s first offshore wind farm on Horseshoe Shoal would provide three-quarters of the electricity used on Cape Cod and the Islands from clean, renewable energy - reducing this region’s need to import oil, coal and gas. Cape Wind will create new jobs, stable electric costs, contribute to a healthier environment, increase energy independence and establish Massachusetts as a leader in offshore wind power. For more information visit www.capewind.org.
Contacts For Cape Wind
News & Stories Published at Clean Energy Stocks Blog
Research Renewable Energy and Cleantech stocks as an Investor Ideas member and gain access to the stock directories. Learn More:http://www.investorideas.com/membership/
Thursday, January 15, 2009
'ASES Green Collar Jobs Report Forecasts 37 Million Jobs From Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency in U.S. by 2030
'ASES Green Collar Jobs' Report Forecasts 37 Million Jobs From Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency in U.S. by 2030
ASES / MISI study reveals opportunities, warnings in nation's first update of groundbreaking study; hottest sectors: solar, wind, biofuels, fuel cells
BOULDER, Colo., Jan. 15 /2009 -- The renewable energy and energy efficiency (RE&EE) industries represented more than 9 million jobs and $1,045 billion in U.S. revenue in 2007, according to a new report offering the most detailed analysis yet of the green economy. The renewable energy industry grew three times as fast as the U.S. economy, with the solar thermal, photovoltaic, biodiesel, and ethanol sectors leading the way, each with 25%+ annual revenue growth.
View the report at: www.ases.org/greenjobs
The new ASES Green Collar Jobs report from the nonprofit American Solar Energy Society (ASES) based in Boulder, and Management Information Services, Inc (MISI), an internationally recognized economic research firm in Washington D.C., provides a sector-by-sector analysis of where the opportunities are in the renewable energy and energy efficiency industries.
"There's a new sense of optimism in the green economy," said Brad Collins, ASES' Executive Director. "But while the U.S. could see million of new jobs in renewable energy and energy efficiency, this will only happen with the necessary leadership, research, development, and public policy at the federal and state levels."
Key conclusions from this report include:
Renewable energy and energy efficiency currently provide more than 9 million jobs and $1,045 billion in revenue in the U.S. (2007). The previous year (2006) renewable energy and energy efficiency represented 8.5 million jobs and $972 billion in revenue. 95% of the jobs are in private industry. As many as 37 million jobs can be generated by the renewable energy and energy efficiency industries in the U.S. by 2030 - more than 17% of all anticipated U.S. employment. Hottest sectors include solar thermal, photovoltaics, biofuels, and fuel cells. Hot job areas include electricians, mechanical engineers, welders, metal workers, construction managers, accountants, analysts, and environmental scientists.
The report forecasts job and revenue growth under three scenarios for U.S. as well as a case study from Colorado.
About the American Solar Energy Society
For more than 50 years the American Solar Energy Society has been leading national efforts to promote education, public outreach, and research about solar energy and other sustainable technologies. www.ases.org
Website: http://www.ases.org/
News & Stories Published at Clean Energy Stocks Blog
Research Renewable Energy and Cleantech stocks as an Investor Ideas member and gain access to the stock directories. Learn More:http://www.investorideas.com/membership/
ASES / MISI study reveals opportunities, warnings in nation's first update of groundbreaking study; hottest sectors: solar, wind, biofuels, fuel cells
BOULDER, Colo., Jan. 15 /2009 -- The renewable energy and energy efficiency (RE&EE) industries represented more than 9 million jobs and $1,045 billion in U.S. revenue in 2007, according to a new report offering the most detailed analysis yet of the green economy. The renewable energy industry grew three times as fast as the U.S. economy, with the solar thermal, photovoltaic, biodiesel, and ethanol sectors leading the way, each with 25%+ annual revenue growth.
View the report at: www.ases.org/greenjobs
The new ASES Green Collar Jobs report from the nonprofit American Solar Energy Society (ASES) based in Boulder, and Management Information Services, Inc (MISI), an internationally recognized economic research firm in Washington D.C., provides a sector-by-sector analysis of where the opportunities are in the renewable energy and energy efficiency industries.
"There's a new sense of optimism in the green economy," said Brad Collins, ASES' Executive Director. "But while the U.S. could see million of new jobs in renewable energy and energy efficiency, this will only happen with the necessary leadership, research, development, and public policy at the federal and state levels."
Key conclusions from this report include:
Renewable energy and energy efficiency currently provide more than 9 million jobs and $1,045 billion in revenue in the U.S. (2007). The previous year (2006) renewable energy and energy efficiency represented 8.5 million jobs and $972 billion in revenue. 95% of the jobs are in private industry. As many as 37 million jobs can be generated by the renewable energy and energy efficiency industries in the U.S. by 2030 - more than 17% of all anticipated U.S. employment. Hottest sectors include solar thermal, photovoltaics, biofuels, and fuel cells. Hot job areas include electricians, mechanical engineers, welders, metal workers, construction managers, accountants, analysts, and environmental scientists.
The report forecasts job and revenue growth under three scenarios for U.S. as well as a case study from Colorado.
About the American Solar Energy Society
For more than 50 years the American Solar Energy Society has been leading national efforts to promote education, public outreach, and research about solar energy and other sustainable technologies. www.ases.org
Website: http://www.ases.org/
News & Stories Published at Clean Energy Stocks Blog
Research Renewable Energy and Cleantech stocks as an Investor Ideas member and gain access to the stock directories. Learn More:http://www.investorideas.com/membership/
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
T. Boone Pickens Launches Monthly Update on Foreign Oil Purchases
T. Boone Pickens Launches Monthly Update on Foreign Oil Purchases
US Sent Nearly $20 Billion Overseas and Imported 66.5% of Oil in December 2008
Pickens Highlights Disparity in Spending on Infrastructure:
Oil Rich Middle East Nations Spend Billions of US Energy Dollars on New Schools, Roads, Airports while US Infrastructure Crumbles
With Gas Prices Back on the Rise and Middle East Threatening Oil Embargo Pickens Warns:
Our Kids Are Falling Behind While Our Enemies Get Richer
Washington, DC – January 13, 2009 – Highlighting the impact of America’s staggering dependence on foreign on investment in domestic programs and infrastructure development, T. Boone Pickens, at a press conference today in Washington, DC, launched a program that will track monthly the amount of foreign oil imported from foreign countries. Mr. Pickens will continue his campaign for the Pickens Plan in 2009 by providing monthly updates of the United States’ monthly imports of foreign oil and focusing the American people’s attention on the progress the nation is making to reduce foreign oil imports.
Based on the latest figures from the US Department of Energy’s Energy Information Administration (EIA), the US imported 66.5 percent of its oil, or 380 million barrels in December 2008, sending approximately $19.3 billion overseas to foreign governments. In total, the US spent approximately $475 billion on imported oil in 2008.
“Our dependence on foreign oil remains at a critical stage” said Mr. Pickens. “Last month alone we imported nearly 380 million barrels of oil at a cost of nearly $20 billion. It is outrageous that we are sending billions of dollars-- $432,000 per minute-- overseas to foreign countries while domestic programs at home remain severely underfunded. This transfer of wealth is among the greatest in human history and is streaming revenue away from investment in our own communities into other countries, many of which are not our allies. These countries are taking our dollars and building beautiful state of the art schools, airports, roads, government buildings while our roads and bridges are full of holes, our schools remain in poor condition, and our infrastructure is in dire need of an upgrade. There are better choices for where we spend our money, and I’d say it should be right here in the United States.
“On the day Steven Chu is considered before the Senate to serve as Energy Secretary for Obama—who has committed to reducing foreign oil dependency and even eliminating Middle East imports within a decade—we’re launching this monthly update to help them track their progress. I’ve criss-crossed the country and know that people are hungry for this type of change.
“The events of recent days in the Middle East, the comments of the Iranian leadership threatening an oil embargo to any country supporting Israel, the actions of the Russians to control the supply of natural gas and OPEC’s decision to cut production should be a major reminder that when we import oil from these nations we do not control our own destiny and we are vulnerable. Oil prices are volatile-- so is the price of gasoline, and that creates uncertainty, which is bad for the economy,” said Mr. Pickens.
“Crisis means danger to us but also an opportunity for us to fix this situation once and for all. Now more than ever we need to take control of our energy future, keeping jobs and dollars on our own soil.”
According to Mr. Pickens, the U.S. Department of Education currently administers a budget of $59.2 billion per year. Oil-rich nations such as Saudi Arabia and Venezuela, both of whose populations total approximately 1/12 of the U.S. population, have dedicated $32.5 billion and $19.7 billion respectively towards education in 2009.
COUNTRY
POPULATION
2009 EDUCATION BUDGET
United States
303,824,640
$59.2 billion
Saudi Arabia
27,601,038
$32.5 billion
Venezuela
28,400,457
$19.7 billion
Continued Mr. Pickens, “Our kids are falling behind while our enemies get richer. We must reduce our dependency on foreign oil—now. The Pickens Plan can get us there.”
Unveiled on July 8, 2008 by T. Boone Pickens, the Pickens Plan is a detailed solution for ending the United States’ growing dependence on foreign oil. Earlier this year, when oil prices reached $140/barrel, America was spending about $700 billion for foreign oil, equaling the greatest transfer of wealth in human history. That figure has decreased some while oil prices have retreated, but the U.S. is still dependent on foreign nations for nearly 70 percent of its oil, representing a continuing national economic and national security threat. The plan calls for investing in power generation from domestic renewable resources such as wind and using our abundant supplies of natural gas as a transportation fuel, replacing more than one-third of our imported oil.
More than 1,350,000 people have joined the Pickens Army through the website www.pickensplan.com , which has had over 14,000,000 hits. For more information on the Pickens Plan please visit our website.
Contact: Jay Rosser
214 265 4165
Jay@bpcap.net
Melissa McKay
212 446 1898
press@pickensplan.com
News & Stories Published at Clean Energy Stocks Blog
Research Renewable Energy and Cleantech stocks as an Investor Ideas member and gain access to the stock directories. Learn More:http://www.investorideas.com/membership/
US Sent Nearly $20 Billion Overseas and Imported 66.5% of Oil in December 2008
Pickens Highlights Disparity in Spending on Infrastructure:
Oil Rich Middle East Nations Spend Billions of US Energy Dollars on New Schools, Roads, Airports while US Infrastructure Crumbles
With Gas Prices Back on the Rise and Middle East Threatening Oil Embargo Pickens Warns:
Our Kids Are Falling Behind While Our Enemies Get Richer
Washington, DC – January 13, 2009 – Highlighting the impact of America’s staggering dependence on foreign on investment in domestic programs and infrastructure development, T. Boone Pickens, at a press conference today in Washington, DC, launched a program that will track monthly the amount of foreign oil imported from foreign countries. Mr. Pickens will continue his campaign for the Pickens Plan in 2009 by providing monthly updates of the United States’ monthly imports of foreign oil and focusing the American people’s attention on the progress the nation is making to reduce foreign oil imports.
Based on the latest figures from the US Department of Energy’s Energy Information Administration (EIA), the US imported 66.5 percent of its oil, or 380 million barrels in December 2008, sending approximately $19.3 billion overseas to foreign governments. In total, the US spent approximately $475 billion on imported oil in 2008.
“Our dependence on foreign oil remains at a critical stage” said Mr. Pickens. “Last month alone we imported nearly 380 million barrels of oil at a cost of nearly $20 billion. It is outrageous that we are sending billions of dollars-- $432,000 per minute-- overseas to foreign countries while domestic programs at home remain severely underfunded. This transfer of wealth is among the greatest in human history and is streaming revenue away from investment in our own communities into other countries, many of which are not our allies. These countries are taking our dollars and building beautiful state of the art schools, airports, roads, government buildings while our roads and bridges are full of holes, our schools remain in poor condition, and our infrastructure is in dire need of an upgrade. There are better choices for where we spend our money, and I’d say it should be right here in the United States.
“On the day Steven Chu is considered before the Senate to serve as Energy Secretary for Obama—who has committed to reducing foreign oil dependency and even eliminating Middle East imports within a decade—we’re launching this monthly update to help them track their progress. I’ve criss-crossed the country and know that people are hungry for this type of change.
“The events of recent days in the Middle East, the comments of the Iranian leadership threatening an oil embargo to any country supporting Israel, the actions of the Russians to control the supply of natural gas and OPEC’s decision to cut production should be a major reminder that when we import oil from these nations we do not control our own destiny and we are vulnerable. Oil prices are volatile-- so is the price of gasoline, and that creates uncertainty, which is bad for the economy,” said Mr. Pickens.
“Crisis means danger to us but also an opportunity for us to fix this situation once and for all. Now more than ever we need to take control of our energy future, keeping jobs and dollars on our own soil.”
According to Mr. Pickens, the U.S. Department of Education currently administers a budget of $59.2 billion per year. Oil-rich nations such as Saudi Arabia and Venezuela, both of whose populations total approximately 1/12 of the U.S. population, have dedicated $32.5 billion and $19.7 billion respectively towards education in 2009.
COUNTRY
POPULATION
2009 EDUCATION BUDGET
United States
303,824,640
$59.2 billion
Saudi Arabia
27,601,038
$32.5 billion
Venezuela
28,400,457
$19.7 billion
Continued Mr. Pickens, “Our kids are falling behind while our enemies get richer. We must reduce our dependency on foreign oil—now. The Pickens Plan can get us there.”
Unveiled on July 8, 2008 by T. Boone Pickens, the Pickens Plan is a detailed solution for ending the United States’ growing dependence on foreign oil. Earlier this year, when oil prices reached $140/barrel, America was spending about $700 billion for foreign oil, equaling the greatest transfer of wealth in human history. That figure has decreased some while oil prices have retreated, but the U.S. is still dependent on foreign nations for nearly 70 percent of its oil, representing a continuing national economic and national security threat. The plan calls for investing in power generation from domestic renewable resources such as wind and using our abundant supplies of natural gas as a transportation fuel, replacing more than one-third of our imported oil.
More than 1,350,000 people have joined the Pickens Army through the website www.pickensplan.com , which has had over 14,000,000 hits. For more information on the Pickens Plan please visit our website.
Contact: Jay Rosser
214 265 4165
Jay@bpcap.net
Melissa McKay
212 446 1898
press@pickensplan.com
News & Stories Published at Clean Energy Stocks Blog
Research Renewable Energy and Cleantech stocks as an Investor Ideas member and gain access to the stock directories. Learn More:http://www.investorideas.com/membership/
Monday, January 12, 2009
Indications for cleantech and renewable energy sector outlook
Scanning news today trying to get some insight into the thoughts and outlook within the industry - in spite of some of the stocks down today - the outlook still seems strong
If investors think long term and are patient - the rewards will be there moving forward.
Green energy firms upbeat about prospects despite economic woes
Lauren Krugel, THE CANADIAN PRESS January 11, 2009 CALGARY -
It's easier being green these days than one might think, say renewable energy companies, which have honed in on some lucrative opportunities amid the wreckage of the global economic crisis.
full story- http://finance.sympatico.msn.ca/investing/insight/article.aspx?cp-documentid=16760539
Israel seeks 10 percent of energy from renewables by 2020
Reuters \Mon, 12 Jan 2009
Israel's government on Monday set a target of producing 10 percent of the country's electricity from renewable energy sources such as solar and wind by 2020.
http://uk.news.yahoo.com/22/20090112/twl-environment-us-israel-energy-1202b49.html
Dem Senators:Stimulus Renewable Energy Tax Credits To Increase
Nasdaq -(Dow Jones)- Tax credits aimed at spurring growth in renewable energy sources are likely to be increased to around $25 billion from an earlier proposal of $10 billion as part of the economic recovery package, several Democratic senators said Sunday.
http://www.nasdaq.com/aspxcontent/NewsStory.aspx?cpath=20090111/ACQDJON200901111843DOWJONESDJONLINE000350.htm&&mypage=newsheadlines&title=Dem%20Senators:Stimulus%20Renewable%20Energy%20Tax%20Credits%20To%20Increase
News & Stories Published at Clean Energy Stocks Blog
Research Renewable Energy and Cleantech stocks as an Investor Ideas member and gain access to the stock directories. Learn More:http://www.investorideas.com/membership/
If investors think long term and are patient - the rewards will be there moving forward.
Green energy firms upbeat about prospects despite economic woes
Lauren Krugel, THE CANADIAN PRESS January 11, 2009 CALGARY -
It's easier being green these days than one might think, say renewable energy companies, which have honed in on some lucrative opportunities amid the wreckage of the global economic crisis.
full story- http://finance.sympatico.msn.ca/investing/insight/article.aspx?cp-documentid=16760539
Israel seeks 10 percent of energy from renewables by 2020
Reuters \Mon, 12 Jan 2009
Israel's government on Monday set a target of producing 10 percent of the country's electricity from renewable energy sources such as solar and wind by 2020.
http://uk.news.yahoo.com/22/20090112/twl-environment-us-israel-energy-1202b49.html
Dem Senators:Stimulus Renewable Energy Tax Credits To Increase
Nasdaq -(Dow Jones)- Tax credits aimed at spurring growth in renewable energy sources are likely to be increased to around $25 billion from an earlier proposal of $10 billion as part of the economic recovery package, several Democratic senators said Sunday.
http://www.nasdaq.com/aspxcontent/NewsStory.aspx?cpath=20090111/ACQDJON200901111843DOWJONESDJONLINE000350.htm&&mypage=newsheadlines&title=Dem%20Senators:Stimulus%20Renewable%20Energy%20Tax%20Credits%20To%20Increase
News & Stories Published at Clean Energy Stocks Blog
Research Renewable Energy and Cleantech stocks as an Investor Ideas member and gain access to the stock directories. Learn More:http://www.investorideas.com/membership/
WorldWater Solar Technologies Changes Name to Entech Solar
WorldWater & Solar Technologies Changes Name to Entech Solar
FORT WORTH, Texas--January 12 2009 --WorldWater & Solar Technologies Corp., (OTC BB: WWAT), a leader in concentrating solar energy systems, announced today that it has changed its corporate name to Entech Solar, Inc. (the “Company”), effective January 12, 2009. The Company’s ticker will remain “WWAT.OB” temporarily until the Company is reassigned a new one. ENTECH, Inc. will continue as a subsidiary of Entech Solar, Inc.
“Entech Solar is a name that more accurately reflects the transformation of our business since our acquisition of ENTECH in January 2008,” said Frank Smith, Entech Solar’s CEO. “Today, we are a concentrating solar technology company focused on providing our advanced, cost-competitive modules to commercial and industrial customers. Entech’s core strategy will be on manufacturing and selling the company’s breakthrough ThermaVolt™ product, a combined photovoltaic and thermal concentrating solar system.”
WorldWater & Solar Technologies acquired ENTECH, Inc. in January 2008. ENTECH has been researching and developing concentrating solar systems for 25 years, making it one of the most experienced concentrating solar companies in the industry. Since the acquisition, the Company has dedicated its resources to commercializing its ThermaVolt system, which produces both electricity and thermal energy, making it one of the most efficient solar systems today.
“We have seen a lot of solar technologies, but haven’t found anything as exciting as the ThermaVolt system, which is a true game changer for the industry. We believe it will be the leader in the combined heat and power market,” said David Anthony, Director of Entech Solar and Managing Director of 21 Ventures.
In conjunction with the name change, Entech Solar has also relocated its headquarters from Ewing, NJ, to Fort Worth, TX, where its state-of-the-art, 70,000 square foot, 200MW capacity manufacturing facility is located.
About Entech Solar
Entech Solar is a leading provider of concentrating solar energy systems. Entech designs, manufactures and installs systems that provide both electricity and thermal energy for commercial and industrial applications. Entech uses its proprietary concentrating photovoltaic and thermal (CPVT) technology to deliver the ThermaVolt™ system, which produces cost-competitive distributed energy. For more information, please visit http://www.entechsolar.com/.
Contacts Entech Solar Press:Amy Copeman, 609-818-0700 ext. 58acopeman@entechsolar.comorEntech Solar Investor Relations:Chris Witty, 646-438-9385cwitty@darrowir.com
News & Stories Published at Clean Energy Stocks Blog
Research Renewable Energy and Cleantech stocks as an Investor Ideas member and gain access to the stock directories. Learn More:http://www.investorideas.com/membership/
FORT WORTH, Texas--January 12 2009 --WorldWater & Solar Technologies Corp., (OTC BB: WWAT), a leader in concentrating solar energy systems, announced today that it has changed its corporate name to Entech Solar, Inc. (the “Company”), effective January 12, 2009. The Company’s ticker will remain “WWAT.OB” temporarily until the Company is reassigned a new one. ENTECH, Inc. will continue as a subsidiary of Entech Solar, Inc.
“Entech Solar is a name that more accurately reflects the transformation of our business since our acquisition of ENTECH in January 2008,” said Frank Smith, Entech Solar’s CEO. “Today, we are a concentrating solar technology company focused on providing our advanced, cost-competitive modules to commercial and industrial customers. Entech’s core strategy will be on manufacturing and selling the company’s breakthrough ThermaVolt™ product, a combined photovoltaic and thermal concentrating solar system.”
WorldWater & Solar Technologies acquired ENTECH, Inc. in January 2008. ENTECH has been researching and developing concentrating solar systems for 25 years, making it one of the most experienced concentrating solar companies in the industry. Since the acquisition, the Company has dedicated its resources to commercializing its ThermaVolt system, which produces both electricity and thermal energy, making it one of the most efficient solar systems today.
“We have seen a lot of solar technologies, but haven’t found anything as exciting as the ThermaVolt system, which is a true game changer for the industry. We believe it will be the leader in the combined heat and power market,” said David Anthony, Director of Entech Solar and Managing Director of 21 Ventures.
In conjunction with the name change, Entech Solar has also relocated its headquarters from Ewing, NJ, to Fort Worth, TX, where its state-of-the-art, 70,000 square foot, 200MW capacity manufacturing facility is located.
About Entech Solar
Entech Solar is a leading provider of concentrating solar energy systems. Entech designs, manufactures and installs systems that provide both electricity and thermal energy for commercial and industrial applications. Entech uses its proprietary concentrating photovoltaic and thermal (CPVT) technology to deliver the ThermaVolt™ system, which produces cost-competitive distributed energy. For more information, please visit http://www.entechsolar.com/.
Contacts Entech Solar Press:Amy Copeman, 609-818-0700 ext. 58acopeman@entechsolar.comorEntech Solar Investor Relations:Chris Witty, 646-438-9385cwitty@darrowir.com
News & Stories Published at Clean Energy Stocks Blog
Research Renewable Energy and Cleantech stocks as an Investor Ideas member and gain access to the stock directories. Learn More:http://www.investorideas.com/membership/
Renewable Energy Stocks Sector Close-Up; First Solar, Inc. (NasdaqNM: FSLR) up $7.18 (4.62%)
Renewable Energy Stocks Sector Close-Up; First Solar, Inc. (NasdaqNM: FSLR) up $7.18 (4.62%)
Obama’s Green Energy Plan Endorsed by Investors Including T.Boone Pickens (Pickensplan.com)
POINT ROBERTS, WA —January 12, 2009 -- 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 stocks trading Friday January 9th. The sector is showing continued strength and optimism in spite of lower oil prices, and scepticism from short-term thinking industry critics.
In President-elect Obama's speech Thursday morning, he stated, "To finally spark the creation of a clean energy economy, we will double the production of alternative energy in the next three years. We will modernize more than 75% of federal buildings and improve the energy efficiency of two million American homes, saving consumers and taxpayers billions on our energy bills. In the process, we will put Americans to work in new jobs that pay well and can’t be outsourced – jobs building solar panels and wind turbines; constructing fuel-efficient cars and buildings; and developing the new energy technologies that will lead to even more jobs, more savings, and a cleaner, safer planet in the bargain."
T.Boone Pickens (Pickensplan.com) followed with a press release stating, “President-Elect Obama’s comments in his speech this morning represent an important first step in solving our nation’s energy crisis and getting our economy moving again. Investing in alternative energy, focusing on conservation and rebuilding our power grid to deliver that energy to every corner of our country are critical components of this effort. As the new Congress and new Administration begin work, it will be critical that they focus on the need to dramatically reduce our dependency on foreign oil, which strangles our economy and threatens our national security. President-Elect Obama made it clear that he also understands the important role that transportation will play in solving our energy crisis and I am confident that he will recognize that as we reduce our imports of foreign oil, there the only domestic resources available are natural gas and plug-in batteries that can have an immediate impact on this effort.
A program focused on renewable energy, conservation, improving the grid and replacing
foreign oil with domestic resources in our transportation system is something that I believe will
create hundreds of thousands of jobs and revitalizes our economy.”
Sector Close-Up as of Trading Close January 9, 2009:
Akeena Solar Inc. (NASDAQ:AKNS) (Market, News) closed down on the day, but up 4.15% in after hours trading.
Archer-Daniels-Midland Co. (NYSE:ADM) (Market, News) had gains of $0.20 (0.72%).
Carbon Sciences, Inc. (OTCBB: CABN) (Market, News) closed up $0.01 (5.56%).
China Technology Development (NASDAQ: CTDC) (Market, News) closed up $0.28 (9.72%).
Clean Energy Fuels Corp. (NASDAQ:CLNE) (Market, News) was down over 4 %.
Evergreen Solar Inc (NASDAQ:ESLR) (Market, News) was down on the day but up in after hours.
Evolution Solar Corporation (OTCPK: EVSO) (Market, News) ended up 3.16%.
First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ: FSLR) (Market, News) closed at $162.54, up 7.18 (4.62%)
GWS TECHNOLOGIES INC (OTC BB: GWSC) (Market, News) was down $0.04.
ICP Solar Technologies Inc. (OTCBB: ICPR) closed at $0.20.
Mantra Venture Group Ltd. (OTCBB: MVTG) (Market, News) closed at $0.37.
OriginOil, Inc (OTCBB: OOIL) (Market, News) closed at $0.42, trading stronger following recent Reuters media .
SunPower Corporation (SPWRA) (Market, News ) closed down, but up $0.74 (1.91%) in after- hours trading.
Suntech Power Holdings Co. Ltd. (STP) (Market, News) closed off $0.04 (0.31%).
Sustainable Energy Technologies Ltd (TSX.V: STG) (Market, News) closed up 4.55%.
Westport Innovations Inc. (WPT.TO) (Market, News) closed down 1.27%.
Yingli Green Energy (YGE) (Market, News) had gains of $0.17 (2.45%) and continued up after hours trading.
XsunX Inc. (OTCBB: XSNX) (Market, News) closed at $0.18.
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.
Renewable Energy Stocks Directory:
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: 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, OOIL, MVTG:
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
Obama’s Green Energy Plan Endorsed by Investors Including T.Boone Pickens (Pickensplan.com)
POINT ROBERTS, WA —January 12, 2009 -- 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 stocks trading Friday January 9th. The sector is showing continued strength and optimism in spite of lower oil prices, and scepticism from short-term thinking industry critics.
In President-elect Obama's speech Thursday morning, he stated, "To finally spark the creation of a clean energy economy, we will double the production of alternative energy in the next three years. We will modernize more than 75% of federal buildings and improve the energy efficiency of two million American homes, saving consumers and taxpayers billions on our energy bills. In the process, we will put Americans to work in new jobs that pay well and can’t be outsourced – jobs building solar panels and wind turbines; constructing fuel-efficient cars and buildings; and developing the new energy technologies that will lead to even more jobs, more savings, and a cleaner, safer planet in the bargain."
T.Boone Pickens (Pickensplan.com) followed with a press release stating, “President-Elect Obama’s comments in his speech this morning represent an important first step in solving our nation’s energy crisis and getting our economy moving again. Investing in alternative energy, focusing on conservation and rebuilding our power grid to deliver that energy to every corner of our country are critical components of this effort. As the new Congress and new Administration begin work, it will be critical that they focus on the need to dramatically reduce our dependency on foreign oil, which strangles our economy and threatens our national security. President-Elect Obama made it clear that he also understands the important role that transportation will play in solving our energy crisis and I am confident that he will recognize that as we reduce our imports of foreign oil, there the only domestic resources available are natural gas and plug-in batteries that can have an immediate impact on this effort.
A program focused on renewable energy, conservation, improving the grid and replacing
foreign oil with domestic resources in our transportation system is something that I believe will
create hundreds of thousands of jobs and revitalizes our economy.”
Sector Close-Up as of Trading Close January 9, 2009:
Akeena Solar Inc. (NASDAQ:AKNS) (Market, News) closed down on the day, but up 4.15% in after hours trading.
Archer-Daniels-Midland Co. (NYSE:ADM) (Market, News) had gains of $0.20 (0.72%).
Carbon Sciences, Inc. (OTCBB: CABN) (Market, News) closed up $0.01 (5.56%).
China Technology Development (NASDAQ: CTDC) (Market, News) closed up $0.28 (9.72%).
Clean Energy Fuels Corp. (NASDAQ:CLNE) (Market, News) was down over 4 %.
Evergreen Solar Inc (NASDAQ:ESLR) (Market, News) was down on the day but up in after hours.
Evolution Solar Corporation (OTCPK: EVSO) (Market, News) ended up 3.16%.
First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ: FSLR) (Market, News) closed at $162.54, up 7.18 (4.62%)
GWS TECHNOLOGIES INC (OTC BB: GWSC) (Market, News) was down $0.04.
ICP Solar Technologies Inc. (OTCBB: ICPR) closed at $0.20.
Mantra Venture Group Ltd. (OTCBB: MVTG) (Market, News) closed at $0.37.
OriginOil, Inc (OTCBB: OOIL) (Market, News) closed at $0.42, trading stronger following recent Reuters media .
SunPower Corporation (SPWRA) (Market, News ) closed down, but up $0.74 (1.91%) in after- hours trading.
Suntech Power Holdings Co. Ltd. (STP) (Market, News) closed off $0.04 (0.31%).
Sustainable Energy Technologies Ltd (TSX.V: STG) (Market, News) closed up 4.55%.
Westport Innovations Inc. (WPT.TO) (Market, News) closed down 1.27%.
Yingli Green Energy (YGE) (Market, News) had gains of $0.17 (2.45%) and continued up after hours trading.
XsunX Inc. (OTCBB: XSNX) (Market, News) closed at $0.18.
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.
Renewable Energy Stocks Directory:
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: 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, OOIL, MVTG:
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
Friday, January 09, 2009
Energy and Environmental Security Require Integrated Policy Solutions
Energy & Environmental Security Require Integrated Policy Solutions
Public Policy Must Support Innovation, Competition & Free Trade
WASHINGTON--Jan 8 2009 --National and international energy and environmental security can be achieved through policies that support innovation, competition and free trade, Rex Tillerson, chairman and chief executive officer of Exxon Mobil Corporation (NYSE:XOM), said today.
In a speech to the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars, Tillerson outlined the energy challenge facing America and the world: global energy demand is expected to be 35 percent higher in 2030 than it was in 2005 despite the current economic slowdown, efficiency improvements and growth in alternative energy sources such as wind and solar.
Providing energy to meet that demand, which is driven by economic expansion largely in developing countries, while protecting the environment will require development of all viable sources of energy and multiple technology breakthroughs, he said.
“Meeting our many energy challenges requires a multidimensional approach,” said Tillerson.
“We need to put in place policies that support an integrated set of solutions that help us find new energy supplies, increase energy efficiency, and discover the innovations that can address climate risks in the most effective manner. By combining energy, efficiency and environmental goals, integrated solutions help us develop and deploy new technologies at every point in the energy chain. In this way, we can meet our multiple energy challenges with multiple solutions.”
One example of a policy challenge provided by Tillerson is the current discussion about whether a cap-and-trade system or a carbon tax would be a more effective option for reducing carbon dioxide emissions.
A cap-and-trade system, which allows businesses to trade emissions allowances set by government, has problems with verification and accountability and requires new market infrastructure -- “a Wall Street of emissions brokers” -- as well as a costly and substantial expansion of regulatory and administrative oversight, he said.
“A carbon tax strikes us as a more direct, transparent and effective approach,” said Tillerson. It is easier to apply globally, avoids the establishment of new markets for trading emissions and new regulators to monitor them, can be implemented through the existing tax infrastructure and made revenue neutral to mitigate the impact on the economy.
“It is the most efficient means of reflecting the cost of carbon in all economic decisions -- from investments made by companies to fuel and product choices made by consumers,” said Tillerson.
Tillerson said Americans increasingly understand that there is no single answer to our energy, efficiency and environmental needs, as illustrated by public support and Congressional action in favor of lifting the moratorium on development of the country’s vast offshore oil and natural gas resources.
“Opening up U.S. supplies of oil and natural gas would boost our economy by simultaneously lowering the cost of energy, increasing employment and providing a new source of government revenue,” he said, referencing a recent study’s conclusion that developing areas of the United States that have been kept off limits would generate more than $1.7 trillion in new government revenue and create 160,000 jobs.
CAUTIONARY STATEMENT: This press release includes forward-looking statements. Actual future conditions, including growth in energy demand, energy supply mix, the impact of carbon tax or trading regimes, and the impact of new resource developments could differ materially due to changes in rates of economic growth; the development of new technologies or energy supply sources; future regulatory requirements and political events; demographic changes; and other factors discussed under the heading "Factors Affecting Future Results" in the "Investors" section of our website (http://www.exxonmobil.com/) and in Item 1A of our most recent Form 10-K.
Contacts ExxonMobilAlan Jeffers, 972-444-1107
News & Stories Published at Clean Energy Stocks Blog
Research Renewable Energy and Cleantech stocks as an Investor Ideas member and gain access to the stock directories. Learn More:http://www.investorideas.com/membership/
Public Policy Must Support Innovation, Competition & Free Trade
WASHINGTON--Jan 8 2009 --National and international energy and environmental security can be achieved through policies that support innovation, competition and free trade, Rex Tillerson, chairman and chief executive officer of Exxon Mobil Corporation (NYSE:XOM), said today.
In a speech to the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars, Tillerson outlined the energy challenge facing America and the world: global energy demand is expected to be 35 percent higher in 2030 than it was in 2005 despite the current economic slowdown, efficiency improvements and growth in alternative energy sources such as wind and solar.
Providing energy to meet that demand, which is driven by economic expansion largely in developing countries, while protecting the environment will require development of all viable sources of energy and multiple technology breakthroughs, he said.
“Meeting our many energy challenges requires a multidimensional approach,” said Tillerson.
“We need to put in place policies that support an integrated set of solutions that help us find new energy supplies, increase energy efficiency, and discover the innovations that can address climate risks in the most effective manner. By combining energy, efficiency and environmental goals, integrated solutions help us develop and deploy new technologies at every point in the energy chain. In this way, we can meet our multiple energy challenges with multiple solutions.”
One example of a policy challenge provided by Tillerson is the current discussion about whether a cap-and-trade system or a carbon tax would be a more effective option for reducing carbon dioxide emissions.
A cap-and-trade system, which allows businesses to trade emissions allowances set by government, has problems with verification and accountability and requires new market infrastructure -- “a Wall Street of emissions brokers” -- as well as a costly and substantial expansion of regulatory and administrative oversight, he said.
“A carbon tax strikes us as a more direct, transparent and effective approach,” said Tillerson. It is easier to apply globally, avoids the establishment of new markets for trading emissions and new regulators to monitor them, can be implemented through the existing tax infrastructure and made revenue neutral to mitigate the impact on the economy.
“It is the most efficient means of reflecting the cost of carbon in all economic decisions -- from investments made by companies to fuel and product choices made by consumers,” said Tillerson.
Tillerson said Americans increasingly understand that there is no single answer to our energy, efficiency and environmental needs, as illustrated by public support and Congressional action in favor of lifting the moratorium on development of the country’s vast offshore oil and natural gas resources.
“Opening up U.S. supplies of oil and natural gas would boost our economy by simultaneously lowering the cost of energy, increasing employment and providing a new source of government revenue,” he said, referencing a recent study’s conclusion that developing areas of the United States that have been kept off limits would generate more than $1.7 trillion in new government revenue and create 160,000 jobs.
CAUTIONARY STATEMENT: This press release includes forward-looking statements. Actual future conditions, including growth in energy demand, energy supply mix, the impact of carbon tax or trading regimes, and the impact of new resource developments could differ materially due to changes in rates of economic growth; the development of new technologies or energy supply sources; future regulatory requirements and political events; demographic changes; and other factors discussed under the heading "Factors Affecting Future Results" in the "Investors" section of our website (http://www.exxonmobil.com/) and in Item 1A of our most recent Form 10-K.
Contacts ExxonMobilAlan Jeffers, 972-444-1107
News & Stories Published at Clean Energy Stocks Blog
Research Renewable Energy and Cleantech stocks as an Investor Ideas member and gain access to the stock directories. Learn More:http://www.investorideas.com/membership/
Thursday, January 08, 2009
Spire (Nasdaq: SPIR )Enters into Contract with Solaria Energia of Spain for 100MW Production Line
Spire (Nasdaq: SPIR )Enters into Contract with Solaria Energia of Spain for 100MW Production Line
Multiple Solar Cell Assembly and Module Testing Machines to be Provided for 100MW Expansion
BEDFORD, Mass.--Jan 8 2009 --Spire Corporation (Nasdaq: SPIR ), a global solar company providing turnkey solar factories and capital equipment to manufacture photovoltaic (PV) modules worldwide, today announced that it has received its sixth contract from Solaria Energia y Medio Ambiente, S.A. (Solaria Energia) to provide module manufacturing equipment for Solaria Energia’s new facility located in Fuenmayor, Spain. Under the contract, Spire will provide state-of-the-art assembly machines, laminators, and a module simulator, all together capable of processing over 100 megawatts (MW) of PV modules per year.
“We are pleased to continue to work with Solaria on this latest increase in their production. They recognize the need to automate key manufacturing steps to increase their production. Spire has more than eighty assemblers in the field or under contract. Using today’s high efficiency cells, this represents nearly a gigawatt of production capacity. Our system is a workhorse in the industry,” said, Roger G. Little, Chairman and CEO of Spire Corporation.
Mr. Dario Lopez, Deputy General Manager of Solaria Energia, says, “This contract represents an important milestone in our expansion process and it is also an expression of our commitment and confidence in a supplier, as Spire Corporation. Solaria Energia today is one of the biggest module manufacturers in Spain and with this agreement we will be able to strengthen our position not only in Spain but also in global markets.”
About Solaria Energia y Medio Ambiente S.A.
Solaria Energia y Medio Ambiente S.A. designs, manufacturers, supplies and installs photovoltaic and thermal solutions for the utilization of Solar Power. It’s rapid expansion and technological innovation have in a few years made it one of the leading companies in the sector of renewable energies. Solaria Energia is headquartered in Puertollano, Spain with manufacturing plants in Puertollano and Fuenmayor, Spain.
About Spire Corporation
Spire Corporation is a global solar company providing turnkey production lines and capital equipment to manufacture photovoltaic cells and modules worldwide. Spire Semiconductor provides processing technology for Spire’s silicon solar cell manufacturing lines and offers custom gallium arsenide cells for solar concentrator systems. For corporate or product information, contact Spire Corporation, “The Turnkey Solar Factory Company,” at 781-275-6000, or visit www.spirecorp.com.
Certain matters described in this news release may be forward-looking statements subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the risk of dependence on market growth, competition and dependence on government agencies and other third parties for funding contract research and services, as well as other factors described in the Company's Form 10-K and other periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Contacts Spire CorporationRoger G. Little, 781-275-6000Chairman & CEO
Multiple Solar Cell Assembly and Module Testing Machines to be Provided for 100MW Expansion
BEDFORD, Mass.--Jan 8 2009 --Spire Corporation (Nasdaq: SPIR ), a global solar company providing turnkey solar factories and capital equipment to manufacture photovoltaic (PV) modules worldwide, today announced that it has received its sixth contract from Solaria Energia y Medio Ambiente, S.A. (Solaria Energia) to provide module manufacturing equipment for Solaria Energia’s new facility located in Fuenmayor, Spain. Under the contract, Spire will provide state-of-the-art assembly machines, laminators, and a module simulator, all together capable of processing over 100 megawatts (MW) of PV modules per year.
“We are pleased to continue to work with Solaria on this latest increase in their production. They recognize the need to automate key manufacturing steps to increase their production. Spire has more than eighty assemblers in the field or under contract. Using today’s high efficiency cells, this represents nearly a gigawatt of production capacity. Our system is a workhorse in the industry,” said, Roger G. Little, Chairman and CEO of Spire Corporation.
Mr. Dario Lopez, Deputy General Manager of Solaria Energia, says, “This contract represents an important milestone in our expansion process and it is also an expression of our commitment and confidence in a supplier, as Spire Corporation. Solaria Energia today is one of the biggest module manufacturers in Spain and with this agreement we will be able to strengthen our position not only in Spain but also in global markets.”
About Solaria Energia y Medio Ambiente S.A.
Solaria Energia y Medio Ambiente S.A. designs, manufacturers, supplies and installs photovoltaic and thermal solutions for the utilization of Solar Power. It’s rapid expansion and technological innovation have in a few years made it one of the leading companies in the sector of renewable energies. Solaria Energia is headquartered in Puertollano, Spain with manufacturing plants in Puertollano and Fuenmayor, Spain.
About Spire Corporation
Spire Corporation is a global solar company providing turnkey production lines and capital equipment to manufacture photovoltaic cells and modules worldwide. Spire Semiconductor provides processing technology for Spire’s silicon solar cell manufacturing lines and offers custom gallium arsenide cells for solar concentrator systems. For corporate or product information, contact Spire Corporation, “The Turnkey Solar Factory Company,” at 781-275-6000, or visit www.spirecorp.com.
Certain matters described in this news release may be forward-looking statements subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the risk of dependence on market growth, competition and dependence on government agencies and other third parties for funding contract research and services, as well as other factors described in the Company's Form 10-K and other periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Contacts Spire CorporationRoger G. Little, 781-275-6000Chairman & CEO
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
Idaho Governor Signs Pickens Pledge
Idaho Governor Signs Pickens Pledge
Joins More Than 1,350,000 Americans Who Want to Break Our Addiction to Foreign Oil
BOISE, January 7, 2009 – Idaho Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter today signed the pledge to join T. Boone Pickens’ campaign to reduce America’s dependence on foreign oil.
“One of my goals as Governor is to fully utilize Idaho’s resources to increase our own state’s energy supply,” Otter said. “Establishing energy security for this state and this country should be a top priority. While there are some aspects of the Pickens plan I still have concerns about, I am signing this pledge to lend my voice to T. Boone Pickens and others calling for a comprehensive energy plan to end our reliance on foreign oil.”
“Governor Otter recognizes that importing nearly 70% of the oil this country uses every day not only hurts our economy, but is a threat to national security,” Pickens said. “In order to reduce America’s dependence on foreign oil, this country needs a plan. I am proud to have Governor Otter on my side as we call on President-elect Barack Obama and Congress to enact an energy plan within the first 100 days of the new administration.”
============================
The Pickens Pledge reads:
We will no longer stand by and watch as America’s national security and economy become more dependent on the unstable foreign nations that we rely on for nearly 70% of the oil we use each day.
We spend nearly $700 billion every year buying foreign oil, which represents the greatest transfer of wealth in the history of mankind.
The new President and the 111th Congress need to enact an energy plan that reduces our foreign oil dependence by at least 30% within ten years.
This plan must include proven American technology and resources; the development of new energy sources; and the expansion and modernization of the national electrical grid to transport renewable energy to homes and businesses.
Delaying any further means tacit support for continuing America’s addiction to foreign oil.
I join with T. Boone Pickens and his army of supporters in calling for an Energy Independence Plan to be enacted within the first 100 days of the new administration.
Unveiled on July 8, 2008 by T. Boone Pickens, the Pickens Plan is a detailed solution for ending the United States’ growing dependence on foreign oil. Earlier this year, when oil prices reached $140/barrel, America was spending about $700 billion for foreign oil, equaling the greatest transfer of wealth in human history. That figure has decreased some while oil prices have retreated, but the U.S. is still dependent on foreign nations for nearly 70 percent of its oil, representing a continuing national economic and national security threat. The plan calls for investing in power generation from domestic renewable resources such as wind and using our abundant supplies of natural gas as a transportation fuel, replacing more than one-third of our imported oil.
For more information on the Pickens Plan, please visit www.pickensplan.com. More than 1,350,000 people have joined the Pickens Army through the website, which has had over 13,700,000 hits.
Contact: Jay Rosser
214 265 4165
Jay@bpcap.net
Melissa McKay
212 446 1898
press@pickensplan.com
Joins More Than 1,350,000 Americans Who Want to Break Our Addiction to Foreign Oil
BOISE, January 7, 2009 – Idaho Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter today signed the pledge to join T. Boone Pickens’ campaign to reduce America’s dependence on foreign oil.
“One of my goals as Governor is to fully utilize Idaho’s resources to increase our own state’s energy supply,” Otter said. “Establishing energy security for this state and this country should be a top priority. While there are some aspects of the Pickens plan I still have concerns about, I am signing this pledge to lend my voice to T. Boone Pickens and others calling for a comprehensive energy plan to end our reliance on foreign oil.”
“Governor Otter recognizes that importing nearly 70% of the oil this country uses every day not only hurts our economy, but is a threat to national security,” Pickens said. “In order to reduce America’s dependence on foreign oil, this country needs a plan. I am proud to have Governor Otter on my side as we call on President-elect Barack Obama and Congress to enact an energy plan within the first 100 days of the new administration.”
============================
The Pickens Pledge reads:
We will no longer stand by and watch as America’s national security and economy become more dependent on the unstable foreign nations that we rely on for nearly 70% of the oil we use each day.
We spend nearly $700 billion every year buying foreign oil, which represents the greatest transfer of wealth in the history of mankind.
The new President and the 111th Congress need to enact an energy plan that reduces our foreign oil dependence by at least 30% within ten years.
This plan must include proven American technology and resources; the development of new energy sources; and the expansion and modernization of the national electrical grid to transport renewable energy to homes and businesses.
Delaying any further means tacit support for continuing America’s addiction to foreign oil.
I join with T. Boone Pickens and his army of supporters in calling for an Energy Independence Plan to be enacted within the first 100 days of the new administration.
Unveiled on July 8, 2008 by T. Boone Pickens, the Pickens Plan is a detailed solution for ending the United States’ growing dependence on foreign oil. Earlier this year, when oil prices reached $140/barrel, America was spending about $700 billion for foreign oil, equaling the greatest transfer of wealth in human history. That figure has decreased some while oil prices have retreated, but the U.S. is still dependent on foreign nations for nearly 70 percent of its oil, representing a continuing national economic and national security threat. The plan calls for investing in power generation from domestic renewable resources such as wind and using our abundant supplies of natural gas as a transportation fuel, replacing more than one-third of our imported oil.
For more information on the Pickens Plan, please visit www.pickensplan.com. More than 1,350,000 people have joined the Pickens Army through the website, which has had over 13,700,000 hits.
Contact: Jay Rosser
214 265 4165
Jay@bpcap.net
Melissa McKay
212 446 1898
press@pickensplan.com
Tuesday, January 06, 2009
Carbonetworks Launches Corporate Carbon Portal for Enterprise Customers
Carbonetworks Launches Corporate Carbon Portal for Enterprise Customers
Customized Web Portal Demonstrates Corporate Carbon Reduction Efforts
VICTORIA, British Columbia, Jan. 6 2009 -- Carbonetworks today announced the launch of the Corporate Carbon Portal, an online web tool that allows enterprise customers to create a customized web presence demonstrating how they are reducing carbon emissions. Hosted by Carbonetworks, the online web portals are customized for each client to showcase environmental stewardship by publishing their carbon management strategies, reduction activities and other corporate environmental initiatives.
"Through the Corporate Carbon Portal we're providing our customers with the opportunity to demonstrate the tremendous strides they're making in an effort to reduce carbon emissions," said Michael Meehan, president & CEO of Carbonetworks. "Not only does it show our clients' corporate commitment to the environment, it also provides an easy way to communicate to employees, shareholders and customers how the company has taken steps to meet this commitment and how these steps will affect the financial bottom line."
The Corporate Carbon Portal provides a snapshot of carbon reduction initiatives running on the Carbonetworks platform, as well as graphics and charts to illustrate emissions reduction activities in action. The portal page is highly customizable allowing corporations to add branding, links to other environmental projects or partners and even a note from the CEO to discuss the corporate commitment to the environment. The portal can be shared internally or externally and is included in a Carbonetworks subscription, all powered by the Carbonetworks Platform.
The Corporate Carbon Portal helps enterprise customers realize the potential of managing carbon information and data on the network while communicating these efforts to their customers. Content for the Corporate Carbon Portal is pulled directly from Carbonetworks' Emissions Management Platform, which provides in-depth analysis of corporate emissions and reduction strategies.
Carbonetworks' Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) model assesses the corporate carbon footprint, pinpoints emission reduction opportunities and develops robust carbon management strategies that are based on company-specific data. Its network of carbon reduction projects is the only one of its kind, creating a highly diversified carbon investment portfolio for clients.
About Carbonetworks
Carbonetworks is a software platform designed to help organizations participate in global carbon markets, even in countries without carbon regulation. The Carbonetworks Emissions Management Platform allows companies to manage emissions as financial assets or liabilities and connects them to a global network of carbon reductions. Its innovative solutions help private and public sector organizations prepare for entry into emerging global carbon markets by first consolidating clients' carbon inventories and then evaluating alternatives on a financial basis (e.g., carbon trading, offsets or investments) to determine the best course of action for their business. Carbonetworks currently serves hundreds of subscribers in over 30 countries including some of the largest and most active companies and governments in the world.
Customized Web Portal Demonstrates Corporate Carbon Reduction Efforts
VICTORIA, British Columbia, Jan. 6 2009 -- Carbonetworks today announced the launch of the Corporate Carbon Portal, an online web tool that allows enterprise customers to create a customized web presence demonstrating how they are reducing carbon emissions. Hosted by Carbonetworks, the online web portals are customized for each client to showcase environmental stewardship by publishing their carbon management strategies, reduction activities and other corporate environmental initiatives.
"Through the Corporate Carbon Portal we're providing our customers with the opportunity to demonstrate the tremendous strides they're making in an effort to reduce carbon emissions," said Michael Meehan, president & CEO of Carbonetworks. "Not only does it show our clients' corporate commitment to the environment, it also provides an easy way to communicate to employees, shareholders and customers how the company has taken steps to meet this commitment and how these steps will affect the financial bottom line."
The Corporate Carbon Portal provides a snapshot of carbon reduction initiatives running on the Carbonetworks platform, as well as graphics and charts to illustrate emissions reduction activities in action. The portal page is highly customizable allowing corporations to add branding, links to other environmental projects or partners and even a note from the CEO to discuss the corporate commitment to the environment. The portal can be shared internally or externally and is included in a Carbonetworks subscription, all powered by the Carbonetworks Platform.
The Corporate Carbon Portal helps enterprise customers realize the potential of managing carbon information and data on the network while communicating these efforts to their customers. Content for the Corporate Carbon Portal is pulled directly from Carbonetworks' Emissions Management Platform, which provides in-depth analysis of corporate emissions and reduction strategies.
Carbonetworks' Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) model assesses the corporate carbon footprint, pinpoints emission reduction opportunities and develops robust carbon management strategies that are based on company-specific data. Its network of carbon reduction projects is the only one of its kind, creating a highly diversified carbon investment portfolio for clients.
About Carbonetworks
Carbonetworks is a software platform designed to help organizations participate in global carbon markets, even in countries without carbon regulation. The Carbonetworks Emissions Management Platform allows companies to manage emissions as financial assets or liabilities and connects them to a global network of carbon reductions. Its innovative solutions help private and public sector organizations prepare for entry into emerging global carbon markets by first consolidating clients' carbon inventories and then evaluating alternatives on a financial basis (e.g., carbon trading, offsets or investments) to determine the best course of action for their business. Carbonetworks currently serves hundreds of subscribers in over 30 countries including some of the largest and most active companies and governments in the world.
Clean Technology Venture Investment Reaches Record $8.4 Billion in 2008 Despite Credit Crisis and Broadening Recession
Clean Technology Venture Investment Reaches Record $8.4 Billion in 2008 Despite Credit Crisis and Broadening Recession
Even With Diminished 4Q08 Results, Clean Technology Investment Fundamentals Remain Strong
SAN FRANCISCO--January 6 2009 --The Cleantech Group™, founders of the clean technology investment category and providers of leading global market research and other services for the clean technology ecosystem, today announced preliminary 2008 results for clean technology venture investments in North America, Europe, China and India totaling a record $8.4 billion, up 38% from $6.1 billion in 2007. The 2008 total represents the seventh consecutive year of growth in venture investing, widely recognized as a leading indicator of overall investment patterns:
Historical Clean Technology VC Investment By Year – North America, Europe & Israel, China, India 2001 $506,780,774 2002 $883,269,409 2003 $1,258,565,762 2004 $1,398,256,823 2005 $2,077,524,074 2006 $4,520,208,949 2007 $6,087,179,844 2008 (preliminary) $8,414,259,610 Source: Cleantech Group (cleantech.com)
“As expected, clean technology venture investing slowed in 4Q08, but it’s important not to miss the forest for the trees,” said Nicholas Parker, Executive Chairman, Cleantech Group. “In 2008, there was a quantum leap in talent, resources and institutional appetite for clean technologies. Now, more than ever, clean technologies represent the biggest opportunities for job and wealth creation.”
Preliminary results for 4Q08 indicate venture investment commitments worldwide of $1.7 billion across 99 disclosed investments, the smallest quarterly total in 6 quarters. 4Q08 was down 35% from 3Q08, yet down only 4% from 4Q07 despite a much more difficult economy.
The top clean technology sectors in 2008 were solar, biofuels, transportation, and wind. Solar accounted for almost 40% of total clean technology investment dollars in 2008, followed by biofuels at 11%.
“2008 saw solar take a 40% share of clean technology venture investment dollars, led by mega-investment rounds in thin-film solar, concentrated solar thermal and solar service provider companies,” said Brian Fan, Senior Director of Research, Cleantech Group. “Investors also continued to migrate from first-generation ethanol and biodiesel technologies to next-generation biofuels technologies, led by algae and synthetic biology companies. Other sectors with healthy investor interest included smart grid companies, small-scale wind turbines, plastics recycling, green buildings and agriculture technologies.”
Top Venture Capital Clean Technology Sectors in 2008 Technology Sector Amount Invested % of total Solar $3.3 billion 40% Biofuels (including ethanol, biodiesel, synthetic biology, algae) $904 million 11% Transportation (including electric vehicles, advanced batteries, fuel cells) $795 million 9.5% Wind $502 million 6.0% Smart Grid $345 million 4.1% Agriculture $166 million 2.0% Water $148 million 1.8%
Top clean technology funding rounds in 2008 were dominated by US-based solar companies:
Five Largest Clean Technology Rounds in 2008 Company Description Amount Raised NanoSolar (USA) Thin-film solar (CIGS) $300 million Solyndra (USA) Thin-film solar (CIGS) $219 million SoloPower (USA) Thin-film solar (CIGS) $200 million WinWinD Oy (Finland) Wind Turbines $177 million Solar Reserve (USA) Concentrated Solar Thermal $140 million
BY WORLD REGION:
EUROPE AND ISRAEL
European and Israeli companies raised $1.8 billion in 146 disclosed rounds, up 43% from 2007. Europe and Israel accounted for 21% of the global total. The traditionally strong energy generation sector increased its share of total investment to 71% ($1.279 billion) from 56% ($ 703 million) in 2007, with a strong increase in investments in wind ($322.6 million, an increase of 294% from 2007) and solar ($589.3 million, an increase of 64% from 2007) leading the way. Outside of the energy generation sectors, energy efficiency investing led the way, representing 8% ($137.6 million) of the total invested.
The most significant country growth was seen in Germany ($383 million invested, an increase of 217% from 2007) and Israel ($247 million invested, an increase of 224% from 2007), both led by very large solar deals. Germany overtook the UK as the country receiving the most venture capital in 2008, helped significantly by the region’s largest deal of 2008, the $133.7 million investment in Berlin-based solar thin-film manufacturer Sulfurcell Solartechnik. The UK’s decline in total investment ($337.8 million, down 11% from 2007) left it second in the country league table, with Israel moving into third place from sixth in 2007.
CHINA:
In 2008, Chinese cleantech companies raised $430 million in 18 disclosed rounds, up 22% from 2007. China accounted for 5% of the global total.
As expected, 2008 witnessed steady gains in clean technology investment in China. Solar accounted for 60% of the total, reflecting the continuing migration of solar module manufacturing from Europe and the US to China, as well as the opportunity of a large domestic market for solar water heating. Other active sectors include agriculture, lighting, and wind.
The underlying fundamentals driving cleantech investment in China, including government efficiency targets in energy, water and resource utilization, emission reduction targets, government and corporate goals for cleaner supply chains and industrial operations, and corporate social responsibility goals, remain in place.
INDIA:
Indian companies raised $277 million in 14 disclosed rounds, down 20% from 2007. India accounted for 3% of the global total. Although 2008 was down from 2007, new investors including Kleiner Perkins and Garage Technology Ventures, as well as corporate investors such as Applied Materials, entered the India clean technology market.
The clean technology sector in India remains nascent compared to more mature markets such as North America and Europe. Much of the interest has been in addressing the energy shortage challenges faced by the country, therefore, energy generation and infrastructure, with solar and wind deals leading the way, attracted the majority of investment dollars. However, new sectors received capital, such as electronic waste recycling, energy efficiency and water management.
NORTH AMERICA:
In 2008, U.S. companies raised $5.8 billion in 241 disclosed rounds, up 56% from 2007. US companies accounted for 68% of the global total. Canadian companies raised $159 million in 14 disclosed rounds, down 58 percent from 2007.
TOP INVESTORS:
Leading clean technology investors in 2008, as measured by the number of disclosed financing rounds the fund participated in, were:
Full-Year 2008 Top Five Most Active Clean Technology Venture Funds Venture Capital Firm # of rounds Khosla Ventures 21 Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers 18 Quercus Trust 16 RockPort Capital Partners 13 Draper Fisher Jurvetson 13 Source: Cleantech Group (cleantech.com)
M&As and IPOs:
For full-year 2008, clean technology M&A totaled an estimated 163 disclosed transactions, totaling $40.4 billion. Top M&A transactions included:
Top 5 Clean Technology M&A Transactions in 2008 Acquiring Company Target Company Amount Type Iberdrola SA Energy East Corp. $4.6 billion Acquisition LBO France Converteam Group SAS $3.1 billion Minority Stake Scottish & Southern Energy Plc. Airtricity Holdings, Ltd. $2.6 billion Acquisition International Power Plc. Trinergy Ltd. $2.5 billion Acquisition Arcapita Honiton Energy Ltd. $2.0 billion Joint Venture Source: Cleantech Group (cleantech.com)
In 2008, clean technology public offerings totaled an estimated $5.1 billion in 16 IPOs.
Top 5 Clean Technology IPOs in 2008 Company IPO Date Amount Raised Exchange EDP Renovaveis, S.A. 6/4/2008 $2.4 billion NYSE Euronext Lisbon American Water Works Company, Inc. 4/23/2008 $1.2 billion NYSE SMA Solar Technology 6/26/2008 $570 million Frankfurt GT Solar, Inc. 7/24/2008 $500 million NASDAQ Energy Recovery, Inc. 7/2/2008 $69 million NASDAQ Source: Cleantech Group (cleantech.com)
The Cleantech Group has issued projections for what the sector may see in 2009. Those predictions are available at http://cleantech.com/about/pressreleases/120408.cfm
Key takeaways reviewed in webinar next week
The Cleantech Group will review key findings of its 4Q08 and full-year 2008 data in a live webinar January 13, 2009 at 11AM EST / 8AM PST / 16:00 GMT, exclusively for members of the Cleantech Group’s Cleantech Network. Members may join the live meeting at http://cleantech.acrobat.com/research/ a few minutes before the event begins, and will need their email address and Cleantech Network password to log in. Members unsure of their passwords can contact Cleantech Group at +1 810-224-4310 x.7151 or can retrieve their password at http://cleantech.com/memberpassword.cfm
Cleantech Forum® XXI San Francisco February 23-25, 2009
Join Cleantech Group’s 21st Cleantech Forum® in San Francisco February 23-25. "Cleantech in 2009: Upside Driver in a Downside Market" will bring together over 800 of the industry's most influential clean technology innovators, investors and policymakers. Visit http://www.cleantech.com/ for information and registration.
About the Cleantech Group, LLC
The Cleantech Group pioneered the clean technology investment category in 2002. Today, it accelerates the development and market adoption of clean technologies globally through membership in the largest global network of investors and companies representing more than $3 trillion in assets. Member investors, growth companies/vendors, enterprises, service providers, and others receive access to capital, investment deal flow, market leading research and data, insight, sales leads, human capital, and promotional opportunities. The Cleantech Group also produces the premier Cleantech Forum events worldwide. Details at http://www.cleantech.com/.
Contacts Cleantech Group, LLCZakiya Johnson, (+1 415) 684-1020 x6610zakiya.johnson@cleantech.comWEB SITE: http://www.cleantech.com/
Even With Diminished 4Q08 Results, Clean Technology Investment Fundamentals Remain Strong
SAN FRANCISCO--January 6 2009 --The Cleantech Group™, founders of the clean technology investment category and providers of leading global market research and other services for the clean technology ecosystem, today announced preliminary 2008 results for clean technology venture investments in North America, Europe, China and India totaling a record $8.4 billion, up 38% from $6.1 billion in 2007. The 2008 total represents the seventh consecutive year of growth in venture investing, widely recognized as a leading indicator of overall investment patterns:
Historical Clean Technology VC Investment By Year – North America, Europe & Israel, China, India 2001 $506,780,774 2002 $883,269,409 2003 $1,258,565,762 2004 $1,398,256,823 2005 $2,077,524,074 2006 $4,520,208,949 2007 $6,087,179,844 2008 (preliminary) $8,414,259,610 Source: Cleantech Group (cleantech.com)
“As expected, clean technology venture investing slowed in 4Q08, but it’s important not to miss the forest for the trees,” said Nicholas Parker, Executive Chairman, Cleantech Group. “In 2008, there was a quantum leap in talent, resources and institutional appetite for clean technologies. Now, more than ever, clean technologies represent the biggest opportunities for job and wealth creation.”
Preliminary results for 4Q08 indicate venture investment commitments worldwide of $1.7 billion across 99 disclosed investments, the smallest quarterly total in 6 quarters. 4Q08 was down 35% from 3Q08, yet down only 4% from 4Q07 despite a much more difficult economy.
The top clean technology sectors in 2008 were solar, biofuels, transportation, and wind. Solar accounted for almost 40% of total clean technology investment dollars in 2008, followed by biofuels at 11%.
“2008 saw solar take a 40% share of clean technology venture investment dollars, led by mega-investment rounds in thin-film solar, concentrated solar thermal and solar service provider companies,” said Brian Fan, Senior Director of Research, Cleantech Group. “Investors also continued to migrate from first-generation ethanol and biodiesel technologies to next-generation biofuels technologies, led by algae and synthetic biology companies. Other sectors with healthy investor interest included smart grid companies, small-scale wind turbines, plastics recycling, green buildings and agriculture technologies.”
Top Venture Capital Clean Technology Sectors in 2008 Technology Sector Amount Invested % of total Solar $3.3 billion 40% Biofuels (including ethanol, biodiesel, synthetic biology, algae) $904 million 11% Transportation (including electric vehicles, advanced batteries, fuel cells) $795 million 9.5% Wind $502 million 6.0% Smart Grid $345 million 4.1% Agriculture $166 million 2.0% Water $148 million 1.8%
Top clean technology funding rounds in 2008 were dominated by US-based solar companies:
Five Largest Clean Technology Rounds in 2008 Company Description Amount Raised NanoSolar (USA) Thin-film solar (CIGS) $300 million Solyndra (USA) Thin-film solar (CIGS) $219 million SoloPower (USA) Thin-film solar (CIGS) $200 million WinWinD Oy (Finland) Wind Turbines $177 million Solar Reserve (USA) Concentrated Solar Thermal $140 million
BY WORLD REGION:
EUROPE AND ISRAEL
European and Israeli companies raised $1.8 billion in 146 disclosed rounds, up 43% from 2007. Europe and Israel accounted for 21% of the global total. The traditionally strong energy generation sector increased its share of total investment to 71% ($1.279 billion) from 56% ($ 703 million) in 2007, with a strong increase in investments in wind ($322.6 million, an increase of 294% from 2007) and solar ($589.3 million, an increase of 64% from 2007) leading the way. Outside of the energy generation sectors, energy efficiency investing led the way, representing 8% ($137.6 million) of the total invested.
The most significant country growth was seen in Germany ($383 million invested, an increase of 217% from 2007) and Israel ($247 million invested, an increase of 224% from 2007), both led by very large solar deals. Germany overtook the UK as the country receiving the most venture capital in 2008, helped significantly by the region’s largest deal of 2008, the $133.7 million investment in Berlin-based solar thin-film manufacturer Sulfurcell Solartechnik. The UK’s decline in total investment ($337.8 million, down 11% from 2007) left it second in the country league table, with Israel moving into third place from sixth in 2007.
CHINA:
In 2008, Chinese cleantech companies raised $430 million in 18 disclosed rounds, up 22% from 2007. China accounted for 5% of the global total.
As expected, 2008 witnessed steady gains in clean technology investment in China. Solar accounted for 60% of the total, reflecting the continuing migration of solar module manufacturing from Europe and the US to China, as well as the opportunity of a large domestic market for solar water heating. Other active sectors include agriculture, lighting, and wind.
The underlying fundamentals driving cleantech investment in China, including government efficiency targets in energy, water and resource utilization, emission reduction targets, government and corporate goals for cleaner supply chains and industrial operations, and corporate social responsibility goals, remain in place.
INDIA:
Indian companies raised $277 million in 14 disclosed rounds, down 20% from 2007. India accounted for 3% of the global total. Although 2008 was down from 2007, new investors including Kleiner Perkins and Garage Technology Ventures, as well as corporate investors such as Applied Materials, entered the India clean technology market.
The clean technology sector in India remains nascent compared to more mature markets such as North America and Europe. Much of the interest has been in addressing the energy shortage challenges faced by the country, therefore, energy generation and infrastructure, with solar and wind deals leading the way, attracted the majority of investment dollars. However, new sectors received capital, such as electronic waste recycling, energy efficiency and water management.
NORTH AMERICA:
In 2008, U.S. companies raised $5.8 billion in 241 disclosed rounds, up 56% from 2007. US companies accounted for 68% of the global total. Canadian companies raised $159 million in 14 disclosed rounds, down 58 percent from 2007.
TOP INVESTORS:
Leading clean technology investors in 2008, as measured by the number of disclosed financing rounds the fund participated in, were:
Full-Year 2008 Top Five Most Active Clean Technology Venture Funds Venture Capital Firm # of rounds Khosla Ventures 21 Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers 18 Quercus Trust 16 RockPort Capital Partners 13 Draper Fisher Jurvetson 13 Source: Cleantech Group (cleantech.com)
M&As and IPOs:
For full-year 2008, clean technology M&A totaled an estimated 163 disclosed transactions, totaling $40.4 billion. Top M&A transactions included:
Top 5 Clean Technology M&A Transactions in 2008 Acquiring Company Target Company Amount Type Iberdrola SA Energy East Corp. $4.6 billion Acquisition LBO France Converteam Group SAS $3.1 billion Minority Stake Scottish & Southern Energy Plc. Airtricity Holdings, Ltd. $2.6 billion Acquisition International Power Plc. Trinergy Ltd. $2.5 billion Acquisition Arcapita Honiton Energy Ltd. $2.0 billion Joint Venture Source: Cleantech Group (cleantech.com)
In 2008, clean technology public offerings totaled an estimated $5.1 billion in 16 IPOs.
Top 5 Clean Technology IPOs in 2008 Company IPO Date Amount Raised Exchange EDP Renovaveis, S.A. 6/4/2008 $2.4 billion NYSE Euronext Lisbon American Water Works Company, Inc. 4/23/2008 $1.2 billion NYSE SMA Solar Technology 6/26/2008 $570 million Frankfurt GT Solar, Inc. 7/24/2008 $500 million NASDAQ Energy Recovery, Inc. 7/2/2008 $69 million NASDAQ Source: Cleantech Group (cleantech.com)
The Cleantech Group has issued projections for what the sector may see in 2009. Those predictions are available at http://cleantech.com/about/pressreleases/120408.cfm
Key takeaways reviewed in webinar next week
The Cleantech Group will review key findings of its 4Q08 and full-year 2008 data in a live webinar January 13, 2009 at 11AM EST / 8AM PST / 16:00 GMT, exclusively for members of the Cleantech Group’s Cleantech Network. Members may join the live meeting at http://cleantech.acrobat.com/research/ a few minutes before the event begins, and will need their email address and Cleantech Network password to log in. Members unsure of their passwords can contact Cleantech Group at +1 810-224-4310 x.7151 or can retrieve their password at http://cleantech.com/memberpassword.cfm
Cleantech Forum® XXI San Francisco February 23-25, 2009
Join Cleantech Group’s 21st Cleantech Forum® in San Francisco February 23-25. "Cleantech in 2009: Upside Driver in a Downside Market" will bring together over 800 of the industry's most influential clean technology innovators, investors and policymakers. Visit http://www.cleantech.com/ for information and registration.
About the Cleantech Group, LLC
The Cleantech Group pioneered the clean technology investment category in 2002. Today, it accelerates the development and market adoption of clean technologies globally through membership in the largest global network of investors and companies representing more than $3 trillion in assets. Member investors, growth companies/vendors, enterprises, service providers, and others receive access to capital, investment deal flow, market leading research and data, insight, sales leads, human capital, and promotional opportunities. The Cleantech Group also produces the premier Cleantech Forum events worldwide. Details at http://www.cleantech.com/.
Contacts Cleantech Group, LLCZakiya Johnson, (+1 415) 684-1020 x6610zakiya.johnson@cleantech.comWEB SITE: http://www.cleantech.com/
Thin Film Technologies Changing the Solar PV Business
Thin Film Technologies Changing the Solar PV Business
Solar Stocks: First Solar, Inc.(NasdaqGS: FSLR),Energy Conversion Devices, Inc.( United Solar Ovonics) (NasdaqGS: ENER) , XsunX (OTCBB:XSNX), SolarWorld (SRWRF.PK), Sanyo Electric (SANYY.PK)
POINT ROBERTS, WA, January 6, 2009- Green Investor at Investorideas.com
http://www.investorideas.com/gi/ reports on Thin Film Technologies Changing the Solar PV Business.
By Paulo Nery
The solar photovoltaic (PV) industry is clearly in a rapid growth phase. The worldwide industry size was recently estimated at $50 billion. Over the past few years, production capacity is thought to have grown at an average of 48% each year and cumulative global production is now at 12.4 Giga Watts (GW). It is also an industry on the brink of change. New technologies are emerging that seem certain have an impact on the entire shape of the PV industry.
Since they were first developed in the 50’s there have been no major changes to the basic crystalline silicon solar cell. But significant improvements are now taking place with several competing innovations vying for position. Crystalline silicon cells, which come in mono and poly crystalline forms, are now being referred to as “first generation” PV. These mature technologies have experienced dramatic growth in volumes. But with shortages of silicon and high prices affecting finished costs, the volumes are dropping. If silicon prices drop further we could yet see more competitive prices for these solar PV modules. But there’s only so much that prices can drop with that technology.
Second generation PV, or thin film technology, holds out the real promise of more price competitive systems because they can be manufactured with dramatically less material, shorter supply chains and cheaper, faster processes. Thin film is still a nascent industry and competition between players is much more about intellectual property and access to capital than the manufacturing efficiencies that drive the first generation PV makers. So there are lower prices from improved efficiency to be anticipated still.
There are three main approaches to thin film technologies based on different materials that can be used for the semi-conductor of a PV cell. The first to be established was amorphous silicon pioneered by United Solar Ovonics (NasdaqGS: ENER) which sells under the brand Uni-Solar. This technique, now used by a few dozen manufacturers around the world, relies on a small amount of amorphous silicon alloy and accounts for about 60% of the thin film PV made today. These systems have been sold for several years as building-integrated PV offering the advantage of nearly undetectable systems on rooftops for both commercial and residential buildings. United Solar sales amounted to 73 megawatts in 2008 and their sales pipeline has $1.8 billion. Their production capacity is currently at 118 Mega Watts (MW) with planned growth to 1 GW by 2012.
XsunX, (XSNX.OB) is also manufacturing thin-film modules using amorphous silicon and has taken aim at utility scale and grid-tied commercial installations. XsunX has developed proprietary techniques that have enabled it to achieve outstanding efficiency levels for amorphous silicon. The company plans to have production capacity of 25 MW in 2009 and is aiming for 100 MW in a few years. It has also recently contracted to supply 15 MW of its solar modules, worth over $37 million, over 2 years. XsunX and United Solar Ovonics are the only listed companies that are real investment plays on silicon based thin-film technology. Yes, Canon, Sharp and even Mitsubishi are in the game, but those companies are diversified into so many other products that investing in them wouldn’t be a play on solar. Other companies manufacturing amorphous silicon thin film include Auria Solar in Taiwan, EPV in New Jersey, Free Energy Europe in France, Heliodomi in Greece, Polar PV in China, Shenzhen Topray in China, Sinonar in Taiwan, TerraSolar in New York and VHF-Technologies in Switzerland.
The next approach to thin film uses cadmium telluride (CdTe) as the semi-conductor material. While CdTe modules are cheaper and faster to produce, so far they are much less efficient at around 10%. For utility scale installations, that seems not to be a critical factor however. The leader in this field is First Solar (FSLR) with over 1 gigawatt of production capacity, over 600 megawatts shipped so far, and over 3.8 gigawatts of contracted sales, worth $6.3 billion through 2013. According to their annual report, First Solar’s gross margins are 56%, which is twice that of most of their competitors’ costs. And they claim their cost per Watt to be $1.29, half to a third of their competitors. First Solar’s objective, though, is to be at $0.65-0.70 per Watt by 2012. After a tremendous run through 2007 up to May of 2008, when the stock went from about 28 to over 300, it tumbled to 85 for a brief while in November of 2008 only to rebound recently to around 130. One of the other CdTe developments was an Ohio company, Solar Fields, which was bought last year by Q-Cells, a German company. Ava Solar, in Colorado, has recently secured $104 million in funding and plans to large scale manufacturing in 2009.
Another group of companies is manufacturing cells with Copper Indium Gallium Di-Selenide (CIGS) as the semi-conductor. These include ICP Solar in Quebec, Solyndra in California, Global Solar in Arizona, MiaSole in California, Heliovolt in Texas, TerraSolar in New York and Nanosolar in California. All of these companies remain private. One of the biggest efforts currently is coming from Honda, who is a major player in crystalline silicon cells. CIGS systems have demonstrated efficiencies that approach 20%, which is significantly higher that CdTe modules and close to the efficiency of crystalline silicon modules. However, to date at least, the manufacturing processes are less tolerant to change.
All of the thin-film technologies have the advantage of requiring much less semiconductor material. It can be less than 1 percent of silicone used in crystalline cells. And they can be manufactured using high-speed techniques such as roll-to-roll printing. Their disadvantage is their lower efficiency. Even so, many new manufacturers in each three types are coming online every month.
Third-generation PV technologies includes approaches such as dye-sensitized solar cells, quantum dots, nano-antennaes, nanomodified materials and organic cells. These all offer the promise of higher efficiencies and lower costs than even second generation technology. But none is yet clearly established as a leader, and none of these technologies is yet available as an exchange traded investment.
Both second and third generation solar technology companies are highly concentrated in the US. So some observers have concluded that there will be a shift back to the US of the solar cell manufacturing that went to Asia. However, as the companies in this sector scale up their operations they’ll be tempted to manufacture where prices are lower to keep their costs down. But it’s by no means clear since as fast as companies shift manufacturing to Asia, overseas companies are building facilities in the US. For instance, SolarWorld (SRWRF.PK) from Germany has opened what they say is the US’s largest solar cell factory in Hillsboro, OR. Meantime, Sanyo Electric (SANYY.PK) from Japan is building a factory in Salem, OR.
Thomas Friedman, author of “Hot, Flat and Crowded”, has said that energy technology is the industrial sector where global leadership will be established in the next several years. With the rush of new innovation taking place in advanced solar technologies in the US, there’s still a chance that the US can claim that leadership position. But the game is still wide open.
Paulo J. Nery
Disclaimer: Nothing in the above article in no way constitutes a recommendation to buy or invest in these or any other stocks. You should always seek professional financial advice when planning your investments or trading in the stock markets.
Featured Showcase Solar Stock:
XsunX Inc. : (OTCBB: XSNX) and (OTCBB:XSNXE) 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/
Renewable Energy Stocks Directory:
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: http://www.investorideas.com/membership/
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, Blogs, and a directory of stocks.
Disclaimer: Paulo Nery is an independent columnist for Green Investor at Investorideas.com .Paulo J. Nery writes about green business, green investing and green lifestyle. www.InvestorIdeas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp.
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:http://www.investorideas.com/About/News/Clientspecifics.asp
Solar Stocks: First Solar, Inc.(NasdaqGS: FSLR),Energy Conversion Devices, Inc.( United Solar Ovonics) (NasdaqGS: ENER) , XsunX (OTCBB:XSNX), SolarWorld (SRWRF.PK), Sanyo Electric (SANYY.PK)
POINT ROBERTS, WA, January 6, 2009- Green Investor at Investorideas.com
http://www.investorideas.com/gi/ reports on Thin Film Technologies Changing the Solar PV Business.
By Paulo Nery
The solar photovoltaic (PV) industry is clearly in a rapid growth phase. The worldwide industry size was recently estimated at $50 billion. Over the past few years, production capacity is thought to have grown at an average of 48% each year and cumulative global production is now at 12.4 Giga Watts (GW). It is also an industry on the brink of change. New technologies are emerging that seem certain have an impact on the entire shape of the PV industry.
Since they were first developed in the 50’s there have been no major changes to the basic crystalline silicon solar cell. But significant improvements are now taking place with several competing innovations vying for position. Crystalline silicon cells, which come in mono and poly crystalline forms, are now being referred to as “first generation” PV. These mature technologies have experienced dramatic growth in volumes. But with shortages of silicon and high prices affecting finished costs, the volumes are dropping. If silicon prices drop further we could yet see more competitive prices for these solar PV modules. But there’s only so much that prices can drop with that technology.
Second generation PV, or thin film technology, holds out the real promise of more price competitive systems because they can be manufactured with dramatically less material, shorter supply chains and cheaper, faster processes. Thin film is still a nascent industry and competition between players is much more about intellectual property and access to capital than the manufacturing efficiencies that drive the first generation PV makers. So there are lower prices from improved efficiency to be anticipated still.
There are three main approaches to thin film technologies based on different materials that can be used for the semi-conductor of a PV cell. The first to be established was amorphous silicon pioneered by United Solar Ovonics (NasdaqGS: ENER) which sells under the brand Uni-Solar. This technique, now used by a few dozen manufacturers around the world, relies on a small amount of amorphous silicon alloy and accounts for about 60% of the thin film PV made today. These systems have been sold for several years as building-integrated PV offering the advantage of nearly undetectable systems on rooftops for both commercial and residential buildings. United Solar sales amounted to 73 megawatts in 2008 and their sales pipeline has $1.8 billion. Their production capacity is currently at 118 Mega Watts (MW) with planned growth to 1 GW by 2012.
XsunX, (XSNX.OB) is also manufacturing thin-film modules using amorphous silicon and has taken aim at utility scale and grid-tied commercial installations. XsunX has developed proprietary techniques that have enabled it to achieve outstanding efficiency levels for amorphous silicon. The company plans to have production capacity of 25 MW in 2009 and is aiming for 100 MW in a few years. It has also recently contracted to supply 15 MW of its solar modules, worth over $37 million, over 2 years. XsunX and United Solar Ovonics are the only listed companies that are real investment plays on silicon based thin-film technology. Yes, Canon, Sharp and even Mitsubishi are in the game, but those companies are diversified into so many other products that investing in them wouldn’t be a play on solar. Other companies manufacturing amorphous silicon thin film include Auria Solar in Taiwan, EPV in New Jersey, Free Energy Europe in France, Heliodomi in Greece, Polar PV in China, Shenzhen Topray in China, Sinonar in Taiwan, TerraSolar in New York and VHF-Technologies in Switzerland.
The next approach to thin film uses cadmium telluride (CdTe) as the semi-conductor material. While CdTe modules are cheaper and faster to produce, so far they are much less efficient at around 10%. For utility scale installations, that seems not to be a critical factor however. The leader in this field is First Solar (FSLR) with over 1 gigawatt of production capacity, over 600 megawatts shipped so far, and over 3.8 gigawatts of contracted sales, worth $6.3 billion through 2013. According to their annual report, First Solar’s gross margins are 56%, which is twice that of most of their competitors’ costs. And they claim their cost per Watt to be $1.29, half to a third of their competitors. First Solar’s objective, though, is to be at $0.65-0.70 per Watt by 2012. After a tremendous run through 2007 up to May of 2008, when the stock went from about 28 to over 300, it tumbled to 85 for a brief while in November of 2008 only to rebound recently to around 130. One of the other CdTe developments was an Ohio company, Solar Fields, which was bought last year by Q-Cells, a German company. Ava Solar, in Colorado, has recently secured $104 million in funding and plans to large scale manufacturing in 2009.
Another group of companies is manufacturing cells with Copper Indium Gallium Di-Selenide (CIGS) as the semi-conductor. These include ICP Solar in Quebec, Solyndra in California, Global Solar in Arizona, MiaSole in California, Heliovolt in Texas, TerraSolar in New York and Nanosolar in California. All of these companies remain private. One of the biggest efforts currently is coming from Honda, who is a major player in crystalline silicon cells. CIGS systems have demonstrated efficiencies that approach 20%, which is significantly higher that CdTe modules and close to the efficiency of crystalline silicon modules. However, to date at least, the manufacturing processes are less tolerant to change.
All of the thin-film technologies have the advantage of requiring much less semiconductor material. It can be less than 1 percent of silicone used in crystalline cells. And they can be manufactured using high-speed techniques such as roll-to-roll printing. Their disadvantage is their lower efficiency. Even so, many new manufacturers in each three types are coming online every month.
Third-generation PV technologies includes approaches such as dye-sensitized solar cells, quantum dots, nano-antennaes, nanomodified materials and organic cells. These all offer the promise of higher efficiencies and lower costs than even second generation technology. But none is yet clearly established as a leader, and none of these technologies is yet available as an exchange traded investment.
Both second and third generation solar technology companies are highly concentrated in the US. So some observers have concluded that there will be a shift back to the US of the solar cell manufacturing that went to Asia. However, as the companies in this sector scale up their operations they’ll be tempted to manufacture where prices are lower to keep their costs down. But it’s by no means clear since as fast as companies shift manufacturing to Asia, overseas companies are building facilities in the US. For instance, SolarWorld (SRWRF.PK) from Germany has opened what they say is the US’s largest solar cell factory in Hillsboro, OR. Meantime, Sanyo Electric (SANYY.PK) from Japan is building a factory in Salem, OR.
Thomas Friedman, author of “Hot, Flat and Crowded”, has said that energy technology is the industrial sector where global leadership will be established in the next several years. With the rush of new innovation taking place in advanced solar technologies in the US, there’s still a chance that the US can claim that leadership position. But the game is still wide open.
Paulo J. Nery
Disclaimer: Nothing in the above article in no way constitutes a recommendation to buy or invest in these or any other stocks. You should always seek professional financial advice when planning your investments or trading in the stock markets.
Featured Showcase Solar Stock:
XsunX Inc. : (OTCBB: XSNX) and (OTCBB:XSNXE) 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/
Renewable Energy Stocks Directory:
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: http://www.investorideas.com/membership/
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, Blogs, and a directory of stocks.
Disclaimer: Paulo Nery is an independent columnist for Green Investor at Investorideas.com .Paulo J. Nery writes about green business, green investing and green lifestyle. www.InvestorIdeas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp.
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:http://www.investorideas.com/About/News/Clientspecifics.asp
Monday, January 05, 2009
CTDC to Build 30MW On-Grid Solar Power Station in Qaidam Basin
CTDC to Build 30MW On-Grid Solar Power Station in Qaidam Basin
HONG KONG, Jan. 2, 2009 -- China Technology Development Group Corporation (NasdaqCM:CTDC - News) (``CTDC'' or ``the Company''), a provider of solar energy products and solutions in China focusing on a-Si thin film technology, announced that the Company and Qinghai New Energy Group Co., Ltd (``QNE'') have signed an agreement with local government of Qinghai Haixi Mongolian-Tibetan Autonomous Region to build a 30MW on-grid solar power station in Qaidam Basin of northwestern China. The signing ceremony was held at Xining, the capital city of Qinghai Province, and many important government leaders, including Mr. Luo Yulin, Vice Governor of Qinghai Province and Mayor of Xining, attended the event.
Under the agreement, CTDC and QNE will design, construct and manage the solar power station. The local government of Haixi Region will provide strong support to CTDC and QNE, such as helping them obtain various local and central government-backed incentives and providing land.
The installed power-generating capacity of the first phase of Qaidam solar power station came to 30 MW and the total long-term objective of the project came up to 1GW. The Qaidam solar power station, the first of its kind in China to integrate crystalline silicon and thin-film solar modules, will be the largest on-grid solar power station in China after full completion. CTDC and QNE will begin construction of the project in 2009 with initial investment of US$150 million.
With ample sunshine, vast desert landmass and broad power grids, Qaidam Basin is generally regarded as one of the optimal locations in China to build a large scale on-grid solar power plant. In 2005, Chinese government approved to establish Qinghai's Qaidam as a special Economic Experimental Zone to develop circular economy and renewable energy projects. Qaidam Circular Economic Experimental Zone is the biggest circular economic experimental zone in China, covering an area of 256,000 square kilometers.
``The ambitious plan to build such a large scale solar power plant is a significant step for Qinghai Province to develop and deploy solar energy by taking full advantage of our abundance in solar and desert resources of Qaidam Basin,'' commented by Mr. Luo Yulin, Vice Governor of Qinhas Province and Mayor of Xining. ``It also reflects the commitment by our government to meet the challenges posed by climate change with reliable and renewable energy.''
``With the recognition and commitment of the Chinese government to developing renewable energy technology, we expect that the domestic solar energy and application market will expand rapidly in the near future,'' commented by Mr. Alan Li, Chairman and CEO of CTDC. ``The signing of the Qaidam solar power plant project is another great milestone for CTDC management and shareholders. CTDC, along with our great partner QNE, will apply our combined experience and technology to ensure the successful launch of our initial 30MW project in 2009.''
About CTDC:
CTDC is a provider of solar energy products and solutions in China focusing on a-Si thin-film technology. CTDC's ultimate principal shareholder is China Merchants Group (http://www.cmhk.com), one of the biggest state-owned conglomerates in China.
For more information, please visit our website at http://www.chinactdc.com
About QNE:
Qinghai New Energy (Group) Co., Ltd, which is one of the earliest solar PV technology research organizations in China, was established in 1983. Simultaneously obtaining Designing Qualification of New Energy Power Generation Engineering and Qualification of Construction and Installation, Qinghai New Energy is capable and qualified to undertake the engineering construction of national key projects, to carry out international cooperation as well as national key scientific and research projects.
For more information, please visit the website at http://www.qssolar.com
Forward-Looking Statement Disclosure:
It should be noted that certain statements herein which are not historical facts, including, without limitation, those regarding: A) the timing of product, service and solution deliveries; B) our ability to develop, implement and commercialize new products, services, solutions and technologies; C) expectations regarding market growth, developments and structural changes; D) expectations regarding our product volume growth, market share, prices and margins; E) expectations and targets for our results of operations; F) the outcome of pending and threatened litigation; G) expectations regarding the successful completion of contemplated acquisitions on a timely basis and our ability to achieve the set targets upon the completion of such acquisitions; and H) statements preceded by ``believe,'' ``expect,'' ``anticipate,'' ``foresee,'' ``target,'' ``estimate,'' ``designed,'' ``plans,'' ``will'' or similar expressions are forward-looking statements. These statements are based on management's best assumptions and beliefs in light of the information currently available to it. Because they involve risks and uncertainties, actual results may differ materially from the results that we currently expect. Factors that could cause these differences include the risk factors specified on our annual report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2007 under ``Item 3.D Risk Factors.'' Other unknown or unpredictable factors or underlying assumptions subsequently proving to be incorrect could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update publicly or revise forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except to the extent legally required.
Contact: China Technology Development Group Corporation
PR/IR Department
Selina Xing
+852 3112 8461
ir@chinactdc.com
HONG KONG, Jan. 2, 2009 -- China Technology Development Group Corporation (NasdaqCM:CTDC - News) (``CTDC'' or ``the Company''), a provider of solar energy products and solutions in China focusing on a-Si thin film technology, announced that the Company and Qinghai New Energy Group Co., Ltd (``QNE'') have signed an agreement with local government of Qinghai Haixi Mongolian-Tibetan Autonomous Region to build a 30MW on-grid solar power station in Qaidam Basin of northwestern China. The signing ceremony was held at Xining, the capital city of Qinghai Province, and many important government leaders, including Mr. Luo Yulin, Vice Governor of Qinghai Province and Mayor of Xining, attended the event.
Under the agreement, CTDC and QNE will design, construct and manage the solar power station. The local government of Haixi Region will provide strong support to CTDC and QNE, such as helping them obtain various local and central government-backed incentives and providing land.
The installed power-generating capacity of the first phase of Qaidam solar power station came to 30 MW and the total long-term objective of the project came up to 1GW. The Qaidam solar power station, the first of its kind in China to integrate crystalline silicon and thin-film solar modules, will be the largest on-grid solar power station in China after full completion. CTDC and QNE will begin construction of the project in 2009 with initial investment of US$150 million.
With ample sunshine, vast desert landmass and broad power grids, Qaidam Basin is generally regarded as one of the optimal locations in China to build a large scale on-grid solar power plant. In 2005, Chinese government approved to establish Qinghai's Qaidam as a special Economic Experimental Zone to develop circular economy and renewable energy projects. Qaidam Circular Economic Experimental Zone is the biggest circular economic experimental zone in China, covering an area of 256,000 square kilometers.
``The ambitious plan to build such a large scale solar power plant is a significant step for Qinghai Province to develop and deploy solar energy by taking full advantage of our abundance in solar and desert resources of Qaidam Basin,'' commented by Mr. Luo Yulin, Vice Governor of Qinhas Province and Mayor of Xining. ``It also reflects the commitment by our government to meet the challenges posed by climate change with reliable and renewable energy.''
``With the recognition and commitment of the Chinese government to developing renewable energy technology, we expect that the domestic solar energy and application market will expand rapidly in the near future,'' commented by Mr. Alan Li, Chairman and CEO of CTDC. ``The signing of the Qaidam solar power plant project is another great milestone for CTDC management and shareholders. CTDC, along with our great partner QNE, will apply our combined experience and technology to ensure the successful launch of our initial 30MW project in 2009.''
About CTDC:
CTDC is a provider of solar energy products and solutions in China focusing on a-Si thin-film technology. CTDC's ultimate principal shareholder is China Merchants Group (http://www.cmhk.com), one of the biggest state-owned conglomerates in China.
For more information, please visit our website at http://www.chinactdc.com
About QNE:
Qinghai New Energy (Group) Co., Ltd, which is one of the earliest solar PV technology research organizations in China, was established in 1983. Simultaneously obtaining Designing Qualification of New Energy Power Generation Engineering and Qualification of Construction and Installation, Qinghai New Energy is capable and qualified to undertake the engineering construction of national key projects, to carry out international cooperation as well as national key scientific and research projects.
For more information, please visit the website at http://www.qssolar.com
Forward-Looking Statement Disclosure:
It should be noted that certain statements herein which are not historical facts, including, without limitation, those regarding: A) the timing of product, service and solution deliveries; B) our ability to develop, implement and commercialize new products, services, solutions and technologies; C) expectations regarding market growth, developments and structural changes; D) expectations regarding our product volume growth, market share, prices and margins; E) expectations and targets for our results of operations; F) the outcome of pending and threatened litigation; G) expectations regarding the successful completion of contemplated acquisitions on a timely basis and our ability to achieve the set targets upon the completion of such acquisitions; and H) statements preceded by ``believe,'' ``expect,'' ``anticipate,'' ``foresee,'' ``target,'' ``estimate,'' ``designed,'' ``plans,'' ``will'' or similar expressions are forward-looking statements. These statements are based on management's best assumptions and beliefs in light of the information currently available to it. Because they involve risks and uncertainties, actual results may differ materially from the results that we currently expect. Factors that could cause these differences include the risk factors specified on our annual report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2007 under ``Item 3.D Risk Factors.'' Other unknown or unpredictable factors or underlying assumptions subsequently proving to be incorrect could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update publicly or revise forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except to the extent legally required.
Contact: China Technology Development Group Corporation
PR/IR Department
Selina Xing
+852 3112 8461
ir@chinactdc.com
WorldWater & Solar Technologies (OTCBB:WWAT) Completes Solar Installation at Valley Center Municipal Water District
WorldWater & Solar Technologies Completes Solar Installation at Valley Center Municipal Water District
EWING, N.J.--Jan 5 2009 --WorldWater & Solar Technologies Corp. (OTC BB: WWAT.OB - News), developer and marketer of proprietary high-horsepower solar systems, today announced that it has completed installation of a 1.1 MW solar power system for the Valley Center Municipal Water District (VCMWD) of Valley Center, California. The system, which was financed and will be owned, operated, and maintained by Solar Power Partners, Inc. (SPP) of Mill Valley, California, will provide 2.1 million kWh per year of electricity for the district, offsetting up to 20% of the electricity required by their largest pumping station. The project was developed using a solar Power Purchase Agreement, which required no cash outlay from VCMWD, who will purchase the generated power from SPP for the twenty-five year life of the agreement.
“I am pleased to announce the successful completion of our flat-plate solar installation at Valley Center, on schedule and to the client’s specifications,” said Frank Smith, CEO, WorldWater and Solar Technologies. “This is another example of our ability to deliver ‘best in class’ solar technology to large commercial clients, as we did for Denver International Airport and Fresno Yosemite International Airport. The experience gained from these installations will serve us well as we look to bring our ENTECH CPV and CPVT modules to the market this year.”
“Solar Power Partners is proud to partner with WorldWater and Valley Center on this exciting solar solution. This facility is a wonderful example of what can be accomplished when water districts adopt solar and support renewable energy,” said Alexander v. Welczeck, President and CEO of Solar Power Partners.
“After almost three years of negotiating, planning, and implementation, it is very rewarding to finally see this 'double green' project come to life,” says Gary Arant, General Manager, Valley Center Municipal Water District. “This will provide long-term financial benefits for our agency and community, as well as a reduced carbon production environment - thus double green.”
Additional partners on this project included Sharp Solar, which supplied the panels for the project, and Xantrex Technology Inc., a subsidiary of Schneider Electric, which provided the inverters.
About WorldWater & Solar Technologies Corp. and ENTECH:
WorldWater & Solar Technologies Corp. is a full-service, solutions-driven solar electric engineering and design company offering unique, high-powered and patented solar technology. ENTECH, Inc., a subsidiary of WorldWater, is a high-technology solar energy company specializing in patented solar concentrating and CPVT (Concentrating Photovoltaic Thermal) systems. ENTECH’s systems can produce electrical output, a combination of electricity and thermal energy or thermal energy alone. Commercial applications vary in size from one kilowatt remote power units to large, multi-megawatt utility power plants. For more information, visit www.worldwater.com or www.entechsolar.com.
About Solar Power Partners, Inc.:
Solar Power Partners, Inc. (SPP) is a California-based renewable energy company that is leading the way in streamlining the adoption of clean solar energy by businesses, institutions and municipalities throughout the United States. Combining the financing strength of solar Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with the expertise and best practices of top solar and building industry professionals, SPP gives building owners a clear path to achieving energy independence with predictable electrical rates and without the risks or costs of owning and maintaining solar facilities. For more information please see www.solarpowerpartners.com.
About Valley Center Municipal Water District:
Valley Center Water District is a public water agency located in north central San Diego County, serving a 100 square mile rural agricultural community with 42 reservoirs, over 300 miles of pipe and 26 electric and natural gas powered pumping stations. It is one of the top 20 power purchasers in the San Diego Gas and Electric Service area and is a recognized leader in the areas of energy efficiency and alternative power development.
Contact:WorldWater & Solar Technologies Corp.Press:Amy Copeman, 609-818-0700 ext. 58acopeman@worldwater.comorInvestor Relations:Chris Witty, 646-438-9385cwitty@darrowir.comorSolar Power Partners, Inc.Sierra Fong, 415-389-8981 x 719sfong@solarpowerpartners.comorValley Center Water DistrictGary Arant, 760-749-1603, ext. 215garant@valleycenterwater.org
Source: WorldWater & Solar Technologies Corp.
EWING, N.J.--Jan 5 2009 --WorldWater & Solar Technologies Corp. (OTC BB: WWAT.OB - News), developer and marketer of proprietary high-horsepower solar systems, today announced that it has completed installation of a 1.1 MW solar power system for the Valley Center Municipal Water District (VCMWD) of Valley Center, California. The system, which was financed and will be owned, operated, and maintained by Solar Power Partners, Inc. (SPP) of Mill Valley, California, will provide 2.1 million kWh per year of electricity for the district, offsetting up to 20% of the electricity required by their largest pumping station. The project was developed using a solar Power Purchase Agreement, which required no cash outlay from VCMWD, who will purchase the generated power from SPP for the twenty-five year life of the agreement.
“I am pleased to announce the successful completion of our flat-plate solar installation at Valley Center, on schedule and to the client’s specifications,” said Frank Smith, CEO, WorldWater and Solar Technologies. “This is another example of our ability to deliver ‘best in class’ solar technology to large commercial clients, as we did for Denver International Airport and Fresno Yosemite International Airport. The experience gained from these installations will serve us well as we look to bring our ENTECH CPV and CPVT modules to the market this year.”
“Solar Power Partners is proud to partner with WorldWater and Valley Center on this exciting solar solution. This facility is a wonderful example of what can be accomplished when water districts adopt solar and support renewable energy,” said Alexander v. Welczeck, President and CEO of Solar Power Partners.
“After almost three years of negotiating, planning, and implementation, it is very rewarding to finally see this 'double green' project come to life,” says Gary Arant, General Manager, Valley Center Municipal Water District. “This will provide long-term financial benefits for our agency and community, as well as a reduced carbon production environment - thus double green.”
Additional partners on this project included Sharp Solar, which supplied the panels for the project, and Xantrex Technology Inc., a subsidiary of Schneider Electric, which provided the inverters.
About WorldWater & Solar Technologies Corp. and ENTECH:
WorldWater & Solar Technologies Corp. is a full-service, solutions-driven solar electric engineering and design company offering unique, high-powered and patented solar technology. ENTECH, Inc., a subsidiary of WorldWater, is a high-technology solar energy company specializing in patented solar concentrating and CPVT (Concentrating Photovoltaic Thermal) systems. ENTECH’s systems can produce electrical output, a combination of electricity and thermal energy or thermal energy alone. Commercial applications vary in size from one kilowatt remote power units to large, multi-megawatt utility power plants. For more information, visit www.worldwater.com or www.entechsolar.com.
About Solar Power Partners, Inc.:
Solar Power Partners, Inc. (SPP) is a California-based renewable energy company that is leading the way in streamlining the adoption of clean solar energy by businesses, institutions and municipalities throughout the United States. Combining the financing strength of solar Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with the expertise and best practices of top solar and building industry professionals, SPP gives building owners a clear path to achieving energy independence with predictable electrical rates and without the risks or costs of owning and maintaining solar facilities. For more information please see www.solarpowerpartners.com.
About Valley Center Municipal Water District:
Valley Center Water District is a public water agency located in north central San Diego County, serving a 100 square mile rural agricultural community with 42 reservoirs, over 300 miles of pipe and 26 electric and natural gas powered pumping stations. It is one of the top 20 power purchasers in the San Diego Gas and Electric Service area and is a recognized leader in the areas of energy efficiency and alternative power development.
Contact:WorldWater & Solar Technologies Corp.Press:Amy Copeman, 609-818-0700 ext. 58acopeman@worldwater.comorInvestor Relations:Chris Witty, 646-438-9385cwitty@darrowir.comorSolar Power Partners, Inc.Sierra Fong, 415-389-8981 x 719sfong@solarpowerpartners.comorValley Center Water DistrictGary Arant, 760-749-1603, ext. 215garant@valleycenterwater.org
Source: WorldWater & Solar Technologies Corp.
Monday, December 29, 2008
Be ready for Investing in 2009 with Water Stocks Directory, Renewable Energy Stocks Directory
Be ready for Investing in 2009 with Water Stocks Directory, Renewable Energy Stocks Directory
POINT ROBERTS, Wash., Delta B.C., December 29, 2008 - www.InvestorIdeas.com, one of the first online investor resources providing in-depth information on renewable energy, greentech and water, provides independent investors access to research tools for making investment decisions moving into 2009 with a new Obama administration.
With Obama’s mandate for renewable energy and infrastructure spending and job creation, investors researching the sectors can use the stock directories and resources at Investorideas.com to make their investment decisions.
Investors in Biotech are also anticipating an upbeat year in the sector in 2009. Investor Ideas has just added the updated Biotech Stocks Directory to the growing list of tools and resources for members.
Investorideas.com has upgraded memberships to include access to restricted content at the Water Stocks Directory, Renewable Energy Stocks Directory and the most recent addition; the Biotech Stocks Directory.
Investor Ideas research tools empower independent investors to facilitate their own research. The
Stock directories are also a useful tool for brokers, institutions and funds in the relative sectors.
The water stocks directory is part of the content at the Water-stocks.com portal at Investorideas.com that also features the Investing in Water Podcast.
Water stocks directory: http://www.investorideas.com/Water-Stocks/Stock_List.asp
The complete renewable energy stocks directory is now members only access page.
The directory features stocks listed on the TSX, OTC, NASDAQ, NYSE, AMEX, ASX, AIM markets and other leading exchanges. The directory includes info and links on Alternative Energy Funds, Biogas and Ethanol Stocks, Energy Efficiency Stocks, Flywheel Stocks, Fuel Cell Stocks, Geothermal Stocks, Hydrogen Production, Micro Turbine Stocks, Solar Stocks, Green Transportation, Wind Power and Wind Energy Stocks and recently added Green Infrastructure Stocks.
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.
Subscribe to the Renewable Energy and GreenTech Business and Stock News RSS Feed:
http://www.investorideas.com/RSS/feeds/RES.xml
“The Insiders Corner “http://www.investorideas.com/insiderscorner/ By Michael Brush is also an Investorideas.com members only feature. 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.
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/
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.
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., Delta B.C., December 29, 2008 - www.InvestorIdeas.com, one of the first online investor resources providing in-depth information on renewable energy, greentech and water, provides independent investors access to research tools for making investment decisions moving into 2009 with a new Obama administration.
With Obama’s mandate for renewable energy and infrastructure spending and job creation, investors researching the sectors can use the stock directories and resources at Investorideas.com to make their investment decisions.
Investors in Biotech are also anticipating an upbeat year in the sector in 2009. Investor Ideas has just added the updated Biotech Stocks Directory to the growing list of tools and resources for members.
Investorideas.com has upgraded memberships to include access to restricted content at the Water Stocks Directory, Renewable Energy Stocks Directory and the most recent addition; the Biotech Stocks Directory.
Investor Ideas research tools empower independent investors to facilitate their own research. The
Stock directories are also a useful tool for brokers, institutions and funds in the relative sectors.
The water stocks directory is part of the content at the Water-stocks.com portal at Investorideas.com that also features the Investing in Water Podcast.
Water stocks directory: http://www.investorideas.com/Water-Stocks/Stock_List.asp
The complete renewable energy stocks directory is now members only access page.
The directory features stocks listed on the TSX, OTC, NASDAQ, NYSE, AMEX, ASX, AIM markets and other leading exchanges. The directory includes info and links on Alternative Energy Funds, Biogas and Ethanol Stocks, Energy Efficiency Stocks, Flywheel Stocks, Fuel Cell Stocks, Geothermal Stocks, Hydrogen Production, Micro Turbine Stocks, Solar Stocks, Green Transportation, Wind Power and Wind Energy Stocks and recently added Green Infrastructure Stocks.
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.
Subscribe to the Renewable Energy and GreenTech Business and Stock News RSS Feed:
http://www.investorideas.com/RSS/feeds/RES.xml
“The Insiders Corner “http://www.investorideas.com/insiderscorner/ By Michael Brush is also an Investorideas.com members only feature. 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.
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/
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.
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
American Wind Energy Association (AWEA): Wind Power Trends to Watch for in 2009
American Wind Energy Association (AWEA): Wind Power Trends to Watch for in 2009
WASHINGTON--Dec 29 2008 --As the wind industry closes out another banner year, the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) is looking ahead to further progress in 2009. Although the industry is buffeted by the financial crisis and economic downturn, it is also buoyed by a strong strategic position and the prospect of strong policy support from Congress and the new President. Here are some wind energy projections for the New Year:
“The world’s largest operating wind power project” will be a hotly contested designation this year: At least one new project may soon surpass FPL Energy’s 736-megawatt (MW) Horse Hollow wind farm, which has been the world’s largest for three years running. One project under expansion, by E.ON Climate & Renewables (EC&R) North America, and currently scheduled to go online in mid-2009, would have a total capacity of 781.5 megawatts (MW) when it is completed. The Horse Hollow Wind Energy Center, located in Taylor and Nolan counties, Texas, claimed the title in 2006. “The Horse Hollow Wind Energy Center is an important new source of clean, renewable power for the region that also provides significant economic benefits to the area in the form of taxes, new jobs, lease payments to landowners, and the purchase of local goods and services,” said FPL Energy President Jim Robo at the time of its commissioning. Gigawatt-size projects (in the thousands of megawatts) like the ones proposed by T. Boone Pickens and Shell Wind Energy are also in the pipeline but will take several years to be built.
Wind power: second-largest source of new U.S. power generating capacity for 5th year in a row? Wind is now a mainstream option for new power generation, second only to natural gas plants in new capacity built from 2005 through 2007, and probably again in 2008, pending year-end figures. Measured by market share, wind provided 35% of all new generation added in the U.S. in 2007. And with 7,500 MW of new capacity expected when 2008 figures are released, wind is likely to contribute at least 35% of new capacity added this year. This is one more indicator that wind power is abundant, affordable and available now to contribute a growing portion of our national electricity supply.
Hopes run high for greater federal policy stability: President-elect Obama has outlined a range of policies that would encourage investments in wind and renewables, and these policies are expected to be on the table for serious discussion and possible early action in 2009. The policies would signal a welcome shift for renewable energy technologies, whose deployment has been hampered by the absence of long-term policy stability. New policies include: adjusting the federal production tax credit (PTC) to make it more effective in the midst of the current economic downturn and extending it for a longer term (it expires at the end of 2009);
establishing a national renewable electricity standard (RES) with a target of generating at least 25% of the nation’s electricity from renewables by 2025, and a near-term target of 10% by 2012 (a Washington Post poll in early December found that 84% of Americans support such a standard); legislation and initiatives to develop a high-voltage interstate transmission “highway” for renewable energy; and strong national climate change legislation.
For a full list and description of the policies, see http://www.newwindagenda.org/.
States will focus on RES, transmission for renewables: Expect one or more states to implement (Indiana) or strengthen (Wisconsin and New York) their Renewable Electricity Standards (RES), bringing the number of states with an RES from 28 to perhaps 30. Look also for some states, including some without an RES (Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska) to develop a process to facilitate investment in transmission for electricity generated using renewables. Texas, Colorado, Minnesota, and California have already shown the way with pro-active transmission policies for renewable energy. “Baseload/peaking” is “out” and “smart mix” is “in”: The electric industry faces dramatic transformations as it wrestles with the challenges of the 21st century. The old paradigm that assumed “baseload” power plants were necessary is being replaced by a new paradigm where both demand and supply are managed in tandem, and electricity is supplied by a smart, clean mix including a high level of renewable and flexible technologies. Under its 20% wind by 2030 scenario (http://www.20percentwind.org/), the U.S. Department of Energy found that 20% wind would likely reduce the need for new coal and leave the level of nuclear power unchanged.
More community wind projects in 2009: The fast-growing wind power market is also opening up opportunities for community wind, which are projects owned by farmers, ranchers or other local investors or public entities. Look for more community wind proposals in 2009, and more AWEA education and outreach on the topic over the course of the year.
AWEA business membership will surge past 2,000 by mid-year: More companies see opportunities in the wind energy industry, and the expanding AWEA business membership roll is a measure of that interest. AWEA business membership increased from 200 in 2000, to more than 600 in 2005, and has soared over the 1,800 mark in 2008. If the trend continues, the roll of AWEA member companies could pass 2,000 by mid-2009. Most of the new members are companies in the wind power supply chain. Industry will finalize guidelines for wind turbine O&M: When an industry becomes mainstream, it needs to put in place a variety of standards and guidelines, and wind power is no exception. AWEA and the wind power industry are working with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to develop safety guidelines for wind turbine technicians and O&M workers at utility-scale wind projects. AWEA will be presenting educational webinars to OSHA personnel in early 2009. AWEA expects to finalize standards for small wind turbines: Standards for small wind turbines will help ensure qualification for the new small wind turbine federal investment credit that is now available for homeowners and small businesses investing in a small wind system. Manufacturing standards have long been in place for utility-scale wind turbines and continue to evolve with the technology.
Larger incentive for small wind? Homeowners, farmers, and small-business owners now benefit from a federal incentive enacted in late 2008 for the purchase of small wind systems. However, this credit is capped. Owners of small wind systems with 100 kilowatts (kW) of capacity and less can receive a credit for 30% of the total installed cost of the system, not to exceed $4,000. For turbines used for homes, the credit is additionally limited to the lesser of $4,000 or $1,000 per kW of capacity. Look for an effort to remove this limitation, so that consumers can benefit from a credit of a full 30% of the total cost of a small wind turbine purchased for an individual home or business.
Denise Bode takes the helm at AWEA: Denise Bode steps in as the new CEO for the American Wind Energy Association on January 5, succeeding Randall Swisher, who retired in 2008 after leading the association and industry for 19 years. Bode takes over at an exceptional time for the industry. Also new is AWEA’s logo at the top of this page. The logo has been updated to reflect the new era for wind energy in the U.S.
AWEA is the national trade association of America’s wind industry, with more than 1,800 member companies, including global leaders in wind power and energy development, wind turbine manufacturing, component and service suppliers, and the world’s largest wind power trade show. AWEA is the voice of wind energy in the U.S. promoting renewable energy to power a cleaner, stronger America. More information on wind energy is available at the AWEA Web site: http://www.awea.org/.
Contacts For AWEAShawna Seldon, 917-971-7852
WASHINGTON--Dec 29 2008 --As the wind industry closes out another banner year, the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) is looking ahead to further progress in 2009. Although the industry is buffeted by the financial crisis and economic downturn, it is also buoyed by a strong strategic position and the prospect of strong policy support from Congress and the new President. Here are some wind energy projections for the New Year:
“The world’s largest operating wind power project” will be a hotly contested designation this year: At least one new project may soon surpass FPL Energy’s 736-megawatt (MW) Horse Hollow wind farm, which has been the world’s largest for three years running. One project under expansion, by E.ON Climate & Renewables (EC&R) North America, and currently scheduled to go online in mid-2009, would have a total capacity of 781.5 megawatts (MW) when it is completed. The Horse Hollow Wind Energy Center, located in Taylor and Nolan counties, Texas, claimed the title in 2006. “The Horse Hollow Wind Energy Center is an important new source of clean, renewable power for the region that also provides significant economic benefits to the area in the form of taxes, new jobs, lease payments to landowners, and the purchase of local goods and services,” said FPL Energy President Jim Robo at the time of its commissioning. Gigawatt-size projects (in the thousands of megawatts) like the ones proposed by T. Boone Pickens and Shell Wind Energy are also in the pipeline but will take several years to be built.
Wind power: second-largest source of new U.S. power generating capacity for 5th year in a row? Wind is now a mainstream option for new power generation, second only to natural gas plants in new capacity built from 2005 through 2007, and probably again in 2008, pending year-end figures. Measured by market share, wind provided 35% of all new generation added in the U.S. in 2007. And with 7,500 MW of new capacity expected when 2008 figures are released, wind is likely to contribute at least 35% of new capacity added this year. This is one more indicator that wind power is abundant, affordable and available now to contribute a growing portion of our national electricity supply.
Hopes run high for greater federal policy stability: President-elect Obama has outlined a range of policies that would encourage investments in wind and renewables, and these policies are expected to be on the table for serious discussion and possible early action in 2009. The policies would signal a welcome shift for renewable energy technologies, whose deployment has been hampered by the absence of long-term policy stability. New policies include: adjusting the federal production tax credit (PTC) to make it more effective in the midst of the current economic downturn and extending it for a longer term (it expires at the end of 2009);
establishing a national renewable electricity standard (RES) with a target of generating at least 25% of the nation’s electricity from renewables by 2025, and a near-term target of 10% by 2012 (a Washington Post poll in early December found that 84% of Americans support such a standard); legislation and initiatives to develop a high-voltage interstate transmission “highway” for renewable energy; and strong national climate change legislation.
For a full list and description of the policies, see http://www.newwindagenda.org/.
States will focus on RES, transmission for renewables: Expect one or more states to implement (Indiana) or strengthen (Wisconsin and New York) their Renewable Electricity Standards (RES), bringing the number of states with an RES from 28 to perhaps 30. Look also for some states, including some without an RES (Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska) to develop a process to facilitate investment in transmission for electricity generated using renewables. Texas, Colorado, Minnesota, and California have already shown the way with pro-active transmission policies for renewable energy. “Baseload/peaking” is “out” and “smart mix” is “in”: The electric industry faces dramatic transformations as it wrestles with the challenges of the 21st century. The old paradigm that assumed “baseload” power plants were necessary is being replaced by a new paradigm where both demand and supply are managed in tandem, and electricity is supplied by a smart, clean mix including a high level of renewable and flexible technologies. Under its 20% wind by 2030 scenario (http://www.20percentwind.org/), the U.S. Department of Energy found that 20% wind would likely reduce the need for new coal and leave the level of nuclear power unchanged.
More community wind projects in 2009: The fast-growing wind power market is also opening up opportunities for community wind, which are projects owned by farmers, ranchers or other local investors or public entities. Look for more community wind proposals in 2009, and more AWEA education and outreach on the topic over the course of the year.
AWEA business membership will surge past 2,000 by mid-year: More companies see opportunities in the wind energy industry, and the expanding AWEA business membership roll is a measure of that interest. AWEA business membership increased from 200 in 2000, to more than 600 in 2005, and has soared over the 1,800 mark in 2008. If the trend continues, the roll of AWEA member companies could pass 2,000 by mid-2009. Most of the new members are companies in the wind power supply chain. Industry will finalize guidelines for wind turbine O&M: When an industry becomes mainstream, it needs to put in place a variety of standards and guidelines, and wind power is no exception. AWEA and the wind power industry are working with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to develop safety guidelines for wind turbine technicians and O&M workers at utility-scale wind projects. AWEA will be presenting educational webinars to OSHA personnel in early 2009. AWEA expects to finalize standards for small wind turbines: Standards for small wind turbines will help ensure qualification for the new small wind turbine federal investment credit that is now available for homeowners and small businesses investing in a small wind system. Manufacturing standards have long been in place for utility-scale wind turbines and continue to evolve with the technology.
Larger incentive for small wind? Homeowners, farmers, and small-business owners now benefit from a federal incentive enacted in late 2008 for the purchase of small wind systems. However, this credit is capped. Owners of small wind systems with 100 kilowatts (kW) of capacity and less can receive a credit for 30% of the total installed cost of the system, not to exceed $4,000. For turbines used for homes, the credit is additionally limited to the lesser of $4,000 or $1,000 per kW of capacity. Look for an effort to remove this limitation, so that consumers can benefit from a credit of a full 30% of the total cost of a small wind turbine purchased for an individual home or business.
Denise Bode takes the helm at AWEA: Denise Bode steps in as the new CEO for the American Wind Energy Association on January 5, succeeding Randall Swisher, who retired in 2008 after leading the association and industry for 19 years. Bode takes over at an exceptional time for the industry. Also new is AWEA’s logo at the top of this page. The logo has been updated to reflect the new era for wind energy in the U.S.
AWEA is the national trade association of America’s wind industry, with more than 1,800 member companies, including global leaders in wind power and energy development, wind turbine manufacturing, component and service suppliers, and the world’s largest wind power trade show. AWEA is the voice of wind energy in the U.S. promoting renewable energy to power a cleaner, stronger America. More information on wind energy is available at the AWEA Web site: http://www.awea.org/.
Contacts For AWEAShawna Seldon, 917-971-7852
Sunday, December 28, 2008
DOE Announces Funding Opportunity of up to $200 Million for Pilot and Demonstration Scale Biorefinery Projects
DOE Announces Funding Opportunity of up to $200 Million for Pilot and Demonstration Scale Biorefinery Projects
Projects Will Demonstrate Continued Commitment to Develop Sustainable, Cost-Competitive Advanced Biofuels
December 22, 2008
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today announced the issuance of a Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) for up to $200 million over six years (FY 2009 – FY 2014), subject to annual appropriations, to support the development of pilot and demonstration-scale biorefineries including the use of feedstocks such as algae and production of advanced biofuels such as bio-butanol, green gasoline and other innovative biofuels. The projects will support the Administration’s comprehensive energy strategy of increasing the nation’s energy, economic and national security by reducing our reliance on foreign oil, and reducing greenhouse gases. While supporting deployment and increased biofuels usage, DOE continues to focus on research and development of advanced biofuels technologies.
“This funding opportunity will look for the most promising technologies that can advance the potential of renewable biomass as a resource for second generation transportation biofuels,” Acting Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy John F. Mizroch said. “The Department of Energy will select breakthrough integrated biorefinery projects that have technical and economic performance data at the bench or pilot scale to prove they are ready to move a step closer toward commercial readiness.”
The FOA has two topic areas for biorefinery development:
Pilot-scale, minimum throughput of one dry tonne of feedstock per day with a minimum non-federal cost-share at 30 percent. Demonstration-scale minimum throughput of 50 dry tonnes of feedstock per day, with a minimum non-federal cost-share at 50 percent.DOE anticipates making approximately 5-12 awards under this announcement, depending on the topic area, and size of awards. Projects selected under this FOA will provide operational data that reduces the risk associated with commercialization. The intent of this FOA is to have integrated biorefinery projects at the pilot and demonstration scale levels operational within three to four years after applicants are selected. All projects must be located within the U.S., use feedstock from domestic biomass resources, and demonstrate significant greenhouse gas reductions on a lifecycle basis. This FOA adds to over $1 billion DOE has committed to research, development, and demonstration of cellulosic biofuels technology.
These pilot and demonstration-scale facilities are intended to lead to commercialization in the near term. If deployed on a large scale, these commercial facilities could produce volumes that could significantly contribute to the Energy and Independence Security Act (EISA) Renewable Fuels Standard goal of 21 billion gallons of advanced biofuels by 2022. The projects selected will demonstrate the commercial viability for producing advanced biofuels from a variety of biomass conversion technologies and non-food feedstocks, therefore reducing U.S. dependence on oil. Advanced biofuels produced from these projects are expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by a minimum of 50 percent, as determined by the Environmental Protection Agency.
Mandatory letters of intent are due February, 20, 2009, and completed applications are due April 30, 2009. The complete FOA (number DE-PS36-09GO99038), can be viewed at www.grants.gov. Projects are expected to begin in Fiscal Year 2009 and continue through Fiscal Year 2014. Funding is subject to annual Congressional appropriations.
Media contact(s):Jennifer Scoggins, (202) 586-4940
Projects Will Demonstrate Continued Commitment to Develop Sustainable, Cost-Competitive Advanced Biofuels
December 22, 2008
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today announced the issuance of a Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) for up to $200 million over six years (FY 2009 – FY 2014), subject to annual appropriations, to support the development of pilot and demonstration-scale biorefineries including the use of feedstocks such as algae and production of advanced biofuels such as bio-butanol, green gasoline and other innovative biofuels. The projects will support the Administration’s comprehensive energy strategy of increasing the nation’s energy, economic and national security by reducing our reliance on foreign oil, and reducing greenhouse gases. While supporting deployment and increased biofuels usage, DOE continues to focus on research and development of advanced biofuels technologies.
“This funding opportunity will look for the most promising technologies that can advance the potential of renewable biomass as a resource for second generation transportation biofuels,” Acting Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy John F. Mizroch said. “The Department of Energy will select breakthrough integrated biorefinery projects that have technical and economic performance data at the bench or pilot scale to prove they are ready to move a step closer toward commercial readiness.”
The FOA has two topic areas for biorefinery development:
Pilot-scale, minimum throughput of one dry tonne of feedstock per day with a minimum non-federal cost-share at 30 percent. Demonstration-scale minimum throughput of 50 dry tonnes of feedstock per day, with a minimum non-federal cost-share at 50 percent.DOE anticipates making approximately 5-12 awards under this announcement, depending on the topic area, and size of awards. Projects selected under this FOA will provide operational data that reduces the risk associated with commercialization. The intent of this FOA is to have integrated biorefinery projects at the pilot and demonstration scale levels operational within three to four years after applicants are selected. All projects must be located within the U.S., use feedstock from domestic biomass resources, and demonstrate significant greenhouse gas reductions on a lifecycle basis. This FOA adds to over $1 billion DOE has committed to research, development, and demonstration of cellulosic biofuels technology.
These pilot and demonstration-scale facilities are intended to lead to commercialization in the near term. If deployed on a large scale, these commercial facilities could produce volumes that could significantly contribute to the Energy and Independence Security Act (EISA) Renewable Fuels Standard goal of 21 billion gallons of advanced biofuels by 2022. The projects selected will demonstrate the commercial viability for producing advanced biofuels from a variety of biomass conversion technologies and non-food feedstocks, therefore reducing U.S. dependence on oil. Advanced biofuels produced from these projects are expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by a minimum of 50 percent, as determined by the Environmental Protection Agency.
Mandatory letters of intent are due February, 20, 2009, and completed applications are due April 30, 2009. The complete FOA (number DE-PS36-09GO99038), can be viewed at www.grants.gov. Projects are expected to begin in Fiscal Year 2009 and continue through Fiscal Year 2014. Funding is subject to annual Congressional appropriations.
Media contact(s):Jennifer Scoggins, (202) 586-4940
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