Solar Energy Investing

PCAuthority.com reports that Australia is introducing a new line of battery extenders called PowerTravellers. The battery will run from the internal “PowerChimp” that recharges from main power sources. The company also makes portable solar cells.

TheAge.com.au reports that Australian solar companies have a plan in the works to create some of the largest solar energy facilities on Earth. Government officials said there has been $1.5 billion allocated towards building four plants (thermal and photovoltaic). The plants are expected to create over 1,000 megawatts of power.

Narooma News reports that residents of Narooma, New South Wales, attended a meeting on cheap solar panels at the Narooma Surf Club on April 22. Clean Energy for Eternity held the meeting to talk about a community bulk-buy of solar panels. The bulk-buy scheme would include 30 homeowners that would each buy a 1-kw solar panel for under $2000.

EnergyMatters.com reports that The Blyth Development Board in Australia is spreading the word about solar power benefits and tax incentives. The region, mid-north, is an ideal spot for solar power due to the level of sunlight that is receives.

Bloomberg.com reports that Investec private bank could invest in solar and geothermal energy projects in Austrailia. The financial establishment is trying to expand their horizons and become more involved in solar energy opportunities.

Sunshine Coast Daily reports that the Sunshine Coast Environment Council in Australia has started a campaign to implement solar power to 1,000 homes. The group as well as some businesses in the area have created a 1 kilowatt plan for around $1,590. They predict it could save homeowners an average of $600 per year in electric bills.

TheDaily.com reports that Auzion Limited in Austrailia has experienced a huge increase in solar panel installations. The main reason is simple — people have realized they can save money by going “green.” A single kilowatt system can save people an average of 25% on their total power charges.

SMH.com.au reports the recently appointed Environment Minister and the Minister of the Department of Climate Change and Water are running several programs to encourage renewable energy usage.  Amongst the programs are the National Solar Schools Program, which will provide funding to schools for the installation of solar hot water heating systems, and the Solar Homes Community Plan that will encourage solar panel system installation with rebates and grants to households with an income of less than $100,000 a year. 

Energy Matters reports solar power systems have good intentions, and people who are passionate about solar power are often easy prey fro companies.  A recent scandal caused 50 people to invest twice as much money as their solar power system was worth thinking they would receive a 100% government rebate, which never happened.  Energy Matters has recently published a guide to buying solar power systems for consumers to avoid these pitfalls.

finchannel.com reports the 2009 Eni Awards have been announced.  In the category of Renewable Energy & Non-Conventional Energy the award was given to Martin Green. Green and his team have identified the limitations of solar cell efficiency and then successfully increased the efficiency of silicon cells to 25%.  His research is most likely to increase the mass use of solar power.