In this section we explore renewable energy technologies include solar power, wind power, hydroelectricity, micro hydro, biomass energy, biofuels, and hydrogen. Here are the stories of how we can harness today’s sunshine in all its many forms to meet today’s and tomorrows energy needs. This is where our journalists bring you the stories of those who are making this happen.
Green Power
Written by Garnet McPherson Sunday, 02 November 2008 19:29
Green Power is electricity that is generated from resources such as solar, wind, geothermal, biomass, and low-impact hydro facilities. Conventional electricity generation, based on the combustion of fossil fuels, is the nation's single largest industrial source of air pollution.
The increasing availability of green power enables electricity customers to accelerate installation of renewable energy technologies. As more green power sources are developed - displacing conventional generation - the overall environmental impacts associated with electricity generation will be significantly reduced. The more we shift to green power, the more we yeild positive results.
“On or Off the Grid?” That is the Question.
Written by Simon Boone Monday, 27 October 2008 15:59
Imagine the web of power lines stretching and intersecting across the continent. They begin at large power generation plants and end at the electric meters on our homes. It’s this web that we refer to as the “grid”. The grid has been getting a lot of press lately; it’s old, it’s strained; it delivers “dirty” coal or nuclear generated electricity into our homes and business. Who wouldn’t want to be disconnected from this mess?
In Canada, solar generated electricity has a definite “off-grid” stigma to it, but did you know that throughout the world more than 80% of solar electric technology is grid connected? This means that solar electric modules are used with special devices called “grid-tie inverters” to create utility grade power. This power is then used in parallel with the grid power to meet our electrical needs.
