Solar Energy Investing

GreenProphet.com reports that 3G Solar has been turning their efforts to dye-sensitized technology in Africa. The type of solar cell has many advantages, including low cost, both production and wholesale value. It also does not use silicon, which makes it very environmentally friendly.

EnnaharOnline.com reports that the town of Ain Touta in Algeria has implemented an array of lights that run off solar power. The street lights were manufactured by the National Company of Electronic Industries. They hope that it serves as an example that other towns start to follow.

Herald-Dispatch.com reports the 2nd West Virginia Coal Forum warned that solar power is a real threat to the coal industry.  The solar cell industry is growing at 35% a year and has become more competitive with coal prices due to the alternative of silicon based cells.  To further the threat, Germany has abandoned their coal technology research and South Africa has closed the world’s largest coal plant.

Canada.com reports European Union has determined that 10% of road transportation fuel must come from renewable energy sources, this percent will be made up of electric trains and cars versus biofuels.  This meeting also concluded that countries can team up on various EU renewable energy projects, Italy is currently looking at North Africa’s potential for producing solar power.

Business Report reports that research done from the University of Cape Town syas a renewable energy target of 15% by 2020 is feasible for South Africa.  This percentage would be made up from solar thermal energy and wind sources.  The largest challenge the country will face is the funding for the investment requirement.

The Open Press reports the Sahara Destert could feature the Sahara Forest Project that will combine the technology of Seater Greenhouse and Concentrated Solar Power for reforestation.  The sun’s heat will be used to evaporate and distil seawater to provide an environment suitable for growing crops while mirrors will concentrate the sun’s heat  to turn water into steam to power a turbine for electricity.  This is a biofriendly solution to produce fresh water and solve food and energy shortages.

Eco Worldy reports South Africa’s first solar car race took place featuring the Joule electric Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV).  Optimal Energy designed the car using $6.2 million.  It made its debut at the Paris Motor Show.  Joules seats 6, reaches an acceleration of 135, and can use a variety of battery packs.  The car is a zero emissions vehicle, except when powering up.  As wind and solar power are brought to the grid emissions will continue to decrease.

Mmegi Online reports Japan visited Botswana to discuss their mission of African development.  A Japanese member met with the Minister of Minerals, Energy, and Waste Resources to view a presentation of interest on solar energy and technology development.

Alternative Energy reports across the globe 40% of companies have installed are are looking to install a renewable energy source.  The international study shows that companies are looking to solar power and other sources to reduce their rising energy costs and to address environmental issues.

TradingMarkets.com reports ZBB Energy has entered a memorandum of understanding with Envision Solar International to provide energy storage systems.  These storage systems will be used for the LifeVillage solar project in Africa.  The prototype of photovoltaic panels is expected to be completed in the United States by October 2008 and then shipped to the west coast of Africa.