Solar Energy Investing

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.

Guradian.co.uk reports European Union scientists are working on a plan to harness the desert sun with solar panels in the Sahara.  Capturing only .3% would of the desert’s sunlight would provide enough power for all of Europe.  The European supergrid would allow countries to share green sources, including wind power from the U.K. and Denmark, and geothermal power from Iceland and Italy.

World Tribune.com reports Kyocera Corp of Japan will install 500 solar systems to generate electricity in Tunisia, Africa.  The use of energy batteries will provide electricity during night hours.  Tunisia currently has the smallest energy reserve in North Africa.

ecorazzi reports on Tom Hanks’ charity auction for the Freeplay Foundation that benefits rural areas of Africa. Hanks is auctioning wind-up and solar power radios that he has personally autographed.

The Times reports on the need for South Africa to make changes in order to bring the electrical system back into balance. Programs are being implemented to reduce electricity consumption.

The Cheers News reports on the scheme in Nigeria to provide electricity to as many as 10 rural communities. Construction on the project has begun and they are expected to be delivered around January of next year. The scheme will benefit about 5,000 people.

SciDevNet reports on Nigeria’s solar scheme that will provide electricity to as many as ten rural communities that have no access the national electrical grid. Construction has begun on the projects and contractors are expected to deliver them soon.

Middle East Times reports Bayti Real Estate Development Company plans to build a brand new Arab town. The town will cost 200 million dollars and house 25,000 people. The company said it would build 4,000 affordable homes on Palestinian-controlled land that is an easy commute to Ramallah.