Evolution of Energy

Thanks in part to unusually strong winds, Germany has already met the EU’s national target that Germany have 12.5% of electricity from renewables. Further, Germany is rapidly growing it’s own renewable industry. Employment in the industry was 250K in 2007 and is expected to blossom to 710K come 2030. This renewables boom can be attributed to Germany’s 1991 renewable energy law. The law mandates utilities purchase renewables and sets a price well above the wholesale price. The fixed rate substantially decreases the risk associated with the long-term investment. Interesting stat: Germany leads the nation with installed capacity of renewable energy, with just over 25 gigawatts. Read more HERE.

NASA is analyzing satellite data to determine the sunniest and windiest spots in the world. If anybody can create a giant solar array in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, an energy bonanza awaits. More feasible is a site in the Sahara Desert, which receives slightly less solar energy than water bound site: 6.78 kilowatt hours of solar energy per square meter per day. Interesting note: wind speeds can be inferred from wave heights and direction. Read more here.