Haltech Nexus R5 tech WhichCar
* This article was originally published here
Saturday, October 31, 2020
October 30 Green Energy News
Headline News:
- “America Wind Toasts Record Breaking Third Quarter” • The US wind industry installed nearly 2 GW of capacity in the third quarter of 2020, setting a record for third-quarter additions and bringing total capacity to nearly 112 GW, the American Wind Energy Association reported. Installations in 2020 so far are up 72% on the first nine months of 2019. [reNEWS]
Wind turbines (AWEA image)
- “Renewables Dominate As Demand Shows Strong Recovery Across Europe” • In Europe, with demand increasing, renewable power was the largest source of electricity generation for the sixth quarter in a row. Renewables provided 40.3% of the total electricity generated in Q3 while fossil fuels produced 35.2% and nuclear 24.4%. [Power Engineering International]
- “Zeta Leaves Over 2.1 Million Customers Without Power” • At least six people have died and more than 2.1 million customers are without power after former Hurricane Zeta hit the Gulf Coast and rushed inland. Zeta made landfall in Louisiana as a Category 2 storm before weakening to a post-tropical cyclone. It is the 27th storm of the Atlantic hurricane season. [CNN]
- “Trump Fires NOAA’s Chief Scientist In Fear Of 5th National Climate Assessment” • Craig McLean, NOAA’s chief scientist, has been forced out from the position by Erik Noble, a former White House policy adviser who had just been appointed NOAA’s chief of staff. At issue was NOAA policy banning manipulating research or presenting ideologically driven findings. [CleanTechnica]
Wildfire at Glacier National Park (NOAA image, public domain)
- “Tesla Expanding Into Solar Microgrids And Virtual Power Plants” • Elon Musk says he expects Tesla’s energy business will one day be equal to or exceed its automotive business. That day may be some time in the future but the company is certainly expanding its solar and battery operations rapidly, both for grid scale and residential applications. [CleanTechnica]
- “Nearly 30 US States See Renewables Generate More Power Than Either Coal Or Nuclear” • Renewables generated 20.8% of US electricity during the first eight months of 2020, ahead of 19.4% from nuclear and 18.4% from coal. Nearly 30 US states have seen renewable energy resources generate more electricity than either coal or nuclear in that time. [Energy Live News]
For more news, please visit geoharvey – Daily News about Energy and Climate Change.
* This article was originally published here
October 31 Green Energy News
Headline News:
- “Energy At Largest Air Force Base in US “Suddenly” Drops 35%” • The Commander-in-Chief has written off climate change, but the US Armed Services sure haven’t. In the latest development, the US Air Force is tooting its own horn for ripping the title of #1 energy consumer off the nameplate of the sprawling Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma. [CleanTechnica]
Tinker Air Force Base (credit: Paul Shirk | US Air Force)
- “Chevrolet Electric Connect And Cruise Package To Debut At SEMA 360” • Do you have a great old car with a bad old engine? The performance people at Chevrolet see the value of engine swaps and created a whole new business unit called Connect and Cruise with its mission to make converting a gas-burner to EV as close to plug and play as possible. [CleanTechnica]
- “How Joe Biden May Have Outmaneuvered Donald Trump On Energy, Climate, And The Economic Recovery” • President Trump thought he had hit the jackpot during the debate when his opponent, former Vice President Joe Biden, declared that he would “transition away from the oil industry.” His reaction points to a basic misunderstanding of the issue. [TIME]
- “New Satellites Can Pinpoint Methane Leaks To Help Us Beat Climate Change” • Dial down methane, and you’ll see results by the time Greta Thunberg can get a PhD. “Dramatically reducing or even zeroing industry CH₄ emissions should be a no-brainer,” says Gabrielle Pétron, a NOAA affiliate research scientist. New satellites can help with that. [Popular Science]
- “Eco Wave Power Enters MOU Regarding Wave Energy Array In Vietnam” • Eco Wave Power announced that it had signed an agreement with MSMART Future Technology on development of a 50-MW wave energy array in Vietnam. After an in-depth feasibility study, the companies will work on a joint venture in Vietnam. [Renewable Energy Magazine]
For more news, please visit geoharvey – Daily News about Energy and Climate Change.
* This article was originally published here
Friday, October 30, 2020
Amazon goes green with electric delivery vans
Many people have bought at least an item or two from Amazon, and some Prime members have regular deliveries from this online retailer. But the carbon emissions from all of those deliveries really add up, and it has become a big problem for the planet. As part of its sustainability pledges, Amazon has unveiled an all-electric delivery vehicle to reduce carbon emissions. The company’s plan is to have 10,000 of these electric delivery vans on the road by 2022. By 2030, Amazon plans to expand its fleet to 100,000 electric delivery vehicles. The company has committed to the Climate Pledge to reach net-zero carbon by 2040. This first electric vehicle is a start. “We wanted drivers to love using it and customers to feel excited when they saw it driving through their neighborhood and pulling up to their home,” said Ross Rachey, director of Amazon Global Fleet and Products. Related: Critics question Amazon’s sustainability amidst Bezos’ Earth Fund launch The custom vehicle has many features to feel excited about. In addition to being fully electric , the vehicle has sensor detection, traffic assist technology and exterior cameras that provide a 360-degree view. Alexa is integrated into the vehicle for hands-free access to traffic info and weather updates. The driver’s side door is made to be extra strong to provide added protection. “We’re trying to build the most sustainable transportation fleet in the world,” Rachey said. Amazon worked with Rivian to create these electric delivery vehicles. Rivian produces emissions-free electric vehicles right outside of Detroit. “We are focused on driving efficiency into every aspect of the vehicle design — everything from cabin heating to driver ergonomics to drivetrain design has been optimized for time and energy,” said Rivian’s CEO, R.J. Scaringe. The new delivery vehicle can drive for 150 miles on a single charge, a range that makes it extremely competitive. + Amazon Images via Rivian
More here:
Amazon goes green with electric delivery vans
* This article was originally published here
Thursday, October 29, 2020
Learn to Make Your Own Amish Friendship Bread!
My grandmother’s recipe for Amish Friendship Bread brings back great memories! Making it is simple and I’ll show you how to make the starter.
Growing up, we didn’t have a lot of money. We made a lot of our own foods, including bread. I remember getting flour everywhere and kneading for what seemed like hours. Then one day my grandmother brought home a jar of goo. That goo was a starter for Amish Friendship Bread.
Making Amish Friendship Bread Starter
If you’re lucky enough and can get some starter from a friend, this will greatly speed up the process. Making your own starter is easy, but can take 10 days to get going. You will need:
- 3 cups flour
- 3 cups of milk
- 0.25 ounces dry yeast (usually one packet)
- ¼ cup of warm water, around 110°F
- 3 cups of sugar
Day 1
Dissolve the yeast in the water and let sit for 10 minutes. If the water is too hot it will kill the yeast.
In a large bowl, mix one cup of sugar and one cup of flour. Mix thoroughly or you’ll end up with glue when adding the liquid.
Add one cup of milk and the yeast mixture and stir well. The mixture will start to get bubbly. Cover loosely and push to the back of the counter. Leave the Amish friendship bread starter alone until the next day.
Days 2-4
Stir well and recover. Leave alone until the next day.
Day 5
Add one cup flour, one cup of milk, and one cup of sugar. Stir well and leave alone until the next day.
Days 6-9
Stir well, then leave alone until the next day. Be patient, trust me, this Amish friendship bread is worth it!
Day 10
Add the last cup of milk, sugar, and flour. Mix well. You should have a lot at this point!
Pull out one cup to make Amish friendship bread (see the following recipe) and give 2 cups to friends. Don’t forget to include the recipe! Any remaining starter can be used right away, stored in the refrigerator for a week or so, or used to start a new starter.
Amish Friendship Bread Recipe
My grandmother's recipe for Amish Friendship Bread brings back great memories! Making it is simple and I'll show you how to make the starter.
Servings 2 loaves
Calories 1695kcal
Ingredients
- 1 cup Amish Friendship Bread Starter
- 2/3 cup coconut oil
- 3 eggs
- 2 cups flour (I use half white flour and half whole wheat)
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1-1/4 tsp baking powder
- 2 tsp vanilla extract (make your own)
Instructions
- Mix all the ingredients together in a large bowl.
- Grease two loaf pans and pour mixture into the pans.
- Bake at 350°F for about 60 minutes.
- Check the center with a toothpick to see if it’s done.
- Serve warm with butter.
Notes
This bread is softer and doesn’t hold well in the toaster, but will toast in a toaster oven.
I’ve also added raisins and coconut for a delicious twist. You can add oatmeal for a heartier bread, but it will need more moisture, so increase the liquid to include 1/4 cup milk.
I’ve also seen recipes that call for peaches or plums. This time of the year I’m thinking apples would be perfect! The variations are endless. My grandmother only made the traditional bread, but I can imagine she would have loved any of these additions.
Nutrition
Calories: 1695kcal | Carbohydrates: 222g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 80g | Saturated Fat: 65g | Cholesterol: 246mg | Sodium: 1016mg | Potassium: 225mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 101g | Vitamin A: 356IU | Calcium: 116mg | Iron: 7mg
Notes on The Sugar
I know some people don’t want to add the amount of sugar this Amish friendship bread recipe calls for. In the starter, the bulk of the sugar is processed by the yeast. Once the starter is complete, it will make over 100 servings and each only has 5 grams of sugar. That’s less than most yogurt!
I haven’t tried this recipe with other sugar-type sweeteners like honey or molasses, but I think it would work. You may need to decrease the liquid some.
The starter recipe won’t work with sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit. You need sugar to feed the yeast. But these sweeteners would work in the final recipe.
Have you made Amish Friendship Bread? Tell us about it!
*******
Learn to Make Your Own Amish Friendship Bread! was written by Debra Maslowski.
* This article was originally published here
How Splice, which paid out $11m in royalties to musicians in the first 9 months of 2020, wants to help a 'million more people to make music' - Music Business Worldwide
Amazon’s new eco-friendly shopping platform
During the pandemic, it seems like Amazon has come to dominate our world, especially during lockdowns when few vehicles save Amazon delivery vans traveled the roads. Many people have been relying on the website throughout the pandemic. But now, the e-commerce giant is trying to save the Earth by promoting eco-friendly shopping on its new platform. The new platform made its U.S. debut in September. This week, shoppers in the U.K., Germany, France, Spain and Italy will be able to browse more than 40,000 items certified by the Carbon Trust, Fairtrade International and other environmental certifying organizations. From bamboo toothbrushes to plant-based garbage bags, Amazon will display these products in a dedicated section of its website. Many small businesses across Europe are participating, including U.K. brands Kite Clothing, which sews sustainable kids’ clothes, and Faith in Nature, makers of shampoo bars. Related: The pros and cons of online versus in-store shopping According to Doug Gurr, Amazon U.K. manager, customers will more easily discover sustainable products on the new platform. “With 18 external certification programs and our own new certification, we’re incentivizing selling partners to create sustainable products that help protect the planet for future generations,” Gurr said, as reported by The Guardian . But not everybody is impressed. Some large environmental nonprofits think the giant company is doing too little. “Amazon sells millions of products and this latest initiative covers just a tiny fraction of the total,” said Will McCallum, senior campaigner at Greenpeace U.K. “By certifying only a limited range of goods, Amazon is implicitly admitting that the rest of its business model isn’t up to scratch. The environmental and climate crises we are facing demand more than token gestures and piecemeal action.” Further, environmental campaigners also found some discrepancies within the new platform, with single-use items like cotton swabs, disposable wipes and novelty Donald Trump toilet paper all labeled with Amazon’s own sustainable certification. After being contacted, Amazon removed the label from these products, citing this as a mistake. In the perfect world, everybody in the supply chain would care about the planet, from the manufacturer to the seller to the end consumer. Here’s hoping that Amazon shoppers will make a point of purchasing sustainable products via the new platform, if not from local shops in their neighborhood. Via The Guardian Image via Christian Wiediger
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Amazon’s new eco-friendly shopping platform
* This article was originally published here
Wednesday, October 28, 2020
University in Germany designs an alpine hut from reeds
A team of craftspeople and students from the University of Stuttgart’s Institute for Building Material, Building Physics, Building Technology and Design have created an alpine hut designed from sustainable, renewable reed material. The project, SkinOver Reed, is meant to research the feasibility of the material as facade and roof cladding for use in high-altitude Alpine regions. Also known as thatch , reed is a carbon-neutral resource, known generationally for its rapid growth, short process chain, low-energy demand, low emissions and lack of pollutants. According to the designers, reed generates better water quality where it grows and helps to provide home to many different animals in the natural environment. It is harvested by cutting off the dead part of the plant, which is replaced by natural growth every year. Using the dead reed as cladding requires no need for any further treatment. At the end of its life, the construction material can be composted, closing the life cycle organically. Related: Prefab alpine shelter boasts phenomenal views and a small footprint The SkinOver Reed project was developed after two years of research, with reed chosen for the facade and roof to help generate a monolithic, three-dimensional design with a single material. The prototype thatched hut was built in Austria using local reed and wood with a foundation of stone from an existing building. The team researched examples of contemporary thatch architecture from France, Denmark and Sweden for inspiration and insight into building with reed. The first hut was completed in 2019, so the team spent summer 2020 monitoring, documenting and analyzing the effects of last winter’s cold weather on the reed. Long-term, they plan to implement both permanent and periodic measurements to monitor the hut’s aging process, hopefully inspiring other architects to see the favorability and quality of renewable materials like reed. The project has already garnered favorable attention, as it was shortlisted in the small building category for the Dezeen Awards 2020. + University of Stuttgart Via Dezeen Images via University of Stuttgart
Read more:
University in Germany designs an alpine hut from reeds
* This article was originally published here
October 28 Green Energy News
Headline News:
- “Three Tidal Turbines Pop Into New York City’s East River” • Marine energy company Verdant Power has plopped three tidal power turbines into New York City’s East River on one array. The Roosevelt Island Tidal Energy Project is the first US-licensed tidal power project. The project is a demonstration, and more turbines are on the way. [CleanTechnica]
Turbine installation (Verdant Power image)
- “Fraunhofer To Develop Battery Inverter For Whole-Area UPS And Renewables Integration” • Fraunhofer and its industrial and academic partners are developing a battery inverter that can be grid connected under normal operation but can use renewables generators within its area to form an island grid, for whole-area uninterrupted power supply. [pv magazine Australia]
- “MBTA Switches To 100% Renewable Energy Starting Jan 1” • The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority has signed a contract to switch its electricity supply to 100% renewable energy starting January 1. The move will save an estimated $3.5 million dollars annually at a time the agency faces large budget cuts from Covid-19 ridership dips. [Cambridge Day]
- “Rhode Island Requests Proposals For 600 MW Of Offshore Wind Energy” • Rhode Island Gov Gina M Raimondo announced a competitive request for proposals to procure up to 600 MW of offshore wind energy. The request is in line with an executive order putting Rhode Island on a path toward 100% renewable electricity by 2030. [Windpower Engineering]
- “Trapping Light Inside Solar Cells Can Boost Solar Panel Output By 125%” • Researchers at the University of York, working with the NOVA University of Lisbon, say they found a way to boost solar cell output by up to 125%. The research permits use of much thinner slices of PV silicon to produce the same amount of electricity as the thicker PVs used today. [CleanTechnica]
For more news, please visit geoharvey – Daily News about Energy and Climate Change.
* This article was originally published here
Tuesday, October 27, 2020
USDA RD Invests $891 Million in Rural Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Improvements in 43 States
Projects Include Rural Water Infrastructure for 2733 Rural Residents and Businesses Across New Hampshire and Vermont
WASHINGTON, Oct. 27, 2020 – The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investing $891 million to modernize rural drinking water and wastewater infrastructure in 43 states.
“Upgrading water infrastructure provides a path to economic growth and protects the health and safety of people who live and work in rural areas,” USDA Deputy Under Secretary for Rural Development Bette Brand said. “Under the leadership of President Trump and Secretary Perdue, USDA continues to be a strong partner to rural communities, because we know that when rural America thrives, all of America thrives.”
These 220 projects will help improve rural water infrastructure for 787,000 residents. The projects are being funded through the Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant Program, and they include initiatives across New Hampshire and Vermont.
USDA Rural Development State Director Anthony Linardos was pleased to announce the investments in a recent statement. “Delivering safe drinking water and modernizing wastewater management improves public health and drives economic development,” he said. “Upgrading and replacing this core infrastructure is crucial in securing the well- being of rural Americans. These essential projects will provide a healthier place to live and do business in New Hampshire and Vermont.”
Relevant initiatives in VT & NH include:
- Deer Estates Cooperative in Milan, N.H. — $131,000 loan to modernize its water and sewer systems;
- Bridgewater, Vt. — $789,000 in loans and grants to replace and upgrade aging components of the town’s wastewater treatment facility and collection system from 1978. The investment will improve pollution control by reducing maintenance and repair costs, as well as excessive infill;
- Epping, N.H. — $13 million in loans and grants to replace two sludge lagoons with a solar field to power its wastewater treatment facility (previously released);
- Woody Hollow Cooperative in Boscawen, N.H. — $956,000 in loans and grants to replace aging pipes and improve water quality for its users (previously released).
Background:
The Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant Program provides funding for clean and reliable drinking water systems, sanitary sewage disposal, sanitary solid waste disposal, and storm water drainage to households and businesses in eligible rural areas with populations of 10,000 or less.
For example, as part of today’s announcement:
- The city of Epping, N.H. is receiving more than $13 million in loans and grants to decommission two sludge lagoons that pose a public health hazard. After the lagoons are emptied, the town will install a solar array in their place to power its modern wastewater treatment
- The Woody Hollow Cooperative in Boscawen, N.H. received $956,000 in grants and loans to replace aging pipes and other materials in order to improve water quality for its dozens of
Contacts: Kevin Lambert, (802) 828-6080, Kevin.Lambert@usda.gov.
U.S. Department of Agriculture: 1400 Independence Avenue SW Washington, DC 20250. www.rd.usda.gov
* This article was originally published here
Monday, October 26, 2020
INTRODUCTION TO BATTERY SYSTEMS 10-28-2020 WEBINAR @ 3PM EST
This is a perfect start to learning about the aggressively growing battery market.
Learn how to design a battery system that meets customer expectations by starting with project fundamentals!
Topics
Industry Overview
Lithium chemistry
2 Hour Sizing and other design rules
Battery System Components
Learning Objectives
- Learn how various applications of lithium batteries enhance grid-tied health, safety, and welfare of buildings and their inhabitants.
- Relate battery voltages to system performance to develop pragmatic understanding of battery bank capabilities.
- Understand common battery under-sizing errors by examining battery specification sheets.
- Explore various battery management system components to protect the battery against protection cases.
10-28-20 WEBINAR
3:00PM EST
Earn NABCEP Credit
Classes are available for 1 continuing education credit for NABCEP PV Installers, Associates, Technical Sales, Design Specialists, Commissioning and Maintenance Experts and System Inspectors.
REGISTER HERE
If you have any questions, please email Jamie Brill – jamieb@fortresspower.com
* This article was originally published here
Affordable and sustainable fashion trends for fall
The changing of the seasons always signals a change in style. But no season is as hard to dress for as fall. You have to be prepared for all kinds of weather, yet you still want to look put together. With the ongoing pandemic, it’s also important to be cozy and comfortable as you spend more time at home. So how can you dress for fall, dress for style and make sure you’re still doing it with comfort and sustainability in mind? There are many clothing brands that are dedicated to ethical, eco-friendly clothing that won’t break your budget. Jeans Jeans are truly the cornerstone of great fall fashion. They’re perfect in all weather situations, and they complement every fall 2020 trend from velvet blouses to platform boots. MUD Jeans is committed to maintaining an environmental standard with every pair of jeans it produces. It uses eco-friendly materials like recycled cotton and non-toxic dyes. As a company, MUD jeans closely monitors health and safety issues for all employees as well as its own supply chain to ensure that sustainable practices are followed. PETA has rated MUD Jeans as vegan . Activewear Activewear is really shining in 2020 as more people turn to yoga pants for lounging or workout clothes to keep up their fitness routines at home. Workout clothes are a great go-to for casual autumn outfits. They’re already designed to work well in layered outfits, and they’re available in a wide range of colors and designs so you can show off your personality. Vege Threads offers cotton activewear that is 100% certified Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS). Vege Threads clothing is made in Australia, where all products are certified by Ethical Clothing Australia. The supply chain is audited to ensure that all workers are treated and compensated ethically and fairly. Jewelry An outfit just isn’t complete without a little jewelry , which can also elevate any outfit for your next virtual meeting or happy hour. With the ongoing pandemic, jewelry has become one of the simplest ways to elevate your work-from-home outfit. Complete your wardrobe with jewelry from makers like Bario Neal . This ethical designer makes handmade rings with conflict-free gems and diamonds. Using recycled jewelry and recycled packaging, Bario Neal traces its entire supply chain and sources fair-trade materials. Article22 is another company to consider when purchasing jewelry for your fall outfits. This jewelry is handmade in Laos using recycled materials — namely shrapnel from the Vietnam War. Article22 ‘s mission is to not only provide beautiful jewelry but to improve social conditions in Laos by turning shrapnel into jewelry and clearing contaminated land. Accessories The scarf is fall’s quintessential accessory. A scarf can instantly add personality and class to any outfit. Frances Austen makes ethical cashmere scarves that are soft, beautiful and sustainably made with spun yarn. Each scarf is completely traceable all the way to the source. Cashmere is wrinkle-resistant and with Frances Austen, it’s responsibly sourced. The company’s clothing and accessories are made in Scotland in a family-owned factory that has been in business for 200 years. Related: These biodegradable sweaters ditch fast fashion in favor of sustainable cashmere New to this season, masks are the “it” item for fall 2020. By now, plenty of people and brands are making comfortable, stylish and eco-friendly reusable masks to match any outfit. Check Etsy for a wide range of handmade options, from plain to patterned to embroidered. Footwear Your choose can make or break a fall outfit. For one, fall footwear needs to be functional. As the weather turns cold, you want shoes that can keep your feet warm and hold their ground when ice and snow are around. It doesn’t hurt to have shoes that are stylish to boot, whether you go with flats, sneakers, mules or boots. If you’re on the hunt for a new pair to invest in for your fall wardrobe, you can find all of these styles at Everlane . This sustainable fashion company maintains a policy of “Radical Transparency”, so you know where its materials come from and how the products are made. This footwear is ethically made with recycled materials and a strong commitment to sustainability. Dresses Take all the guesswork out of getting dressed with cute dresses from Pact . No need to stare at your closet, wondering which separates will pair best together. Pact offers comfortable, chic and ethically made dresses that will look just as cute while you are at the pumpkin patch as they will when you are on the couch. Pact clothing is made in factories that follow fair-trade clothing guidelines. Everything is also made with organic cotton . Outerwear Fall weather isn’t always warm and welcoming. On those blustery days, you need jackets and vests to keep yourself warm. Patagonia has a gorgeous selection of outerwear items in varying styles. That includes puffy parkas, short jackets, hooded coats and vests, all of which are on-trend for fall 2020. Patagonia even offers a Worn Wear program , wear you can purchase used gear to save money and the resources required in making new garments . Best of all, Patagonia is a champion of change. This company engages in activism to prevent mining, protect public lands and save the planet. Patagonia is all about being active, getting involved and doing its part to promote not just sustainable clothing but also global change. Images via Ryan Wheatley / Vege Threads, Orders Mudjeans (MUD Jeans), Article22, Austin Wade and Adobe Stock
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Affordable and sustainable fashion trends for fall
* This article was originally published here
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