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  • Members: 749
  • Category: Environment
  • Founded: Jul 18, 1999
  • Language: English
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#4325 From: "Michael Ewert" <mewert@...>
Date: Sun Jun 4, 2006 10:18 pm
Subject: Do something! 		mkewert
Send Email Send Email
 

We spend a lot of time discussing and complaining about global warming, imported oil and pollution.  So let’s all do something (joining HREG was a great start.  J ).

 

I invite you all to take the “Energy Wise Challenge” on our home page:

http://www.txses.org/hreg/index.php

Click right below the ad for our renewable energy tour in the fall (mark that date on your calendar while you’re at it).  Please check the box that says you are already an HREG member; otherwise you’ll get another invitation to join.

 

Of course, that’s just the first step.  Once you’ve taken the quiz, see how you can improve over the next week or 2 and then come back and update your score.  Hopefully it will make you feel better to be an active HREG member.

 

If all goes well with our database, we will have statistics and even prizes at future HREG meetings for our most “energy wise” members.

 

Thank you,

Mike


Reply | Messages in this Topic (3)
#4326 From: Sarah Carriger <sjcarriger@...>
Date: Sun Jun 4, 2006 11:53 pm
Subject: Re: Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth 		sarafina159
Send Email Send Email
 
I do not understand the comment of where the children are going to play.  Same place they played before the turn of the 20th century - before oil production became a big business - outside.  If fossil fuel is causing global warming, then isn't this a good thing that we run out of fossil fuels???  This planet and her inhabitants survived just fine without oil and we can do it again.  It appears that only when the supply is indeed limited will there be any advances in alternative energy production, because at that point there will be no choice.


Edward Kramer wrote:
Thanks for the invite, but I would rather conserve my fuel, as the round trip from my house is costly and I will do my part to help the future. Remeber, there is only 70-80 year supply of fossil fuel in the world. Where are the chiildren going to play?


Reply | Messages in this Topic (23)
#4327 From: "Edward Kramer" <onekindr@...>
Date: Mon Jun 5, 2006 12:33 am
Subject: Re: Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth 		onekindrtx
Send Email Send Email
 
A geophysicist will argue that we are in a natural warming caused by changing sea levels, shift in plates and natural changes in the jet stream. Global warming might be a small cause of the natural warming trend, and the earth atmosphee can handle any Co2 gases that we humans combust. Electricity is suppose to make our life better, and if we do not find a sustainable source of electricity, life for our children and theirs will revert to prehistoric times. We are here for a very short time, we should only borrow from mother nature, not take. If we deplete the carbon resources,
what is the next generation going to do for the very basic building life of all matter-black carbon. Rather than utilizing the carbon for the solid production of physical goods, we are burning it up in combustion for electricity. Once its gone, its gone. If we do not wake up and make some serious changes in our lifestyles, how we use the exiting resources, the future does not look so bright the children. 
----- Original Message -----
Sent: Sunday, June 04, 2006 6:53 PM
Subject: Re: [hreg] Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth

I do not understand the comment of where the children are going to play.  Same place they played before the turn of the 20th century - before oil production became a big business - outside.  If fossil fuel is causing global warming, then isn't this a good thing that we run out of fossil fuels???  This planet and her inhabitants survived just fine without oil and we can do it again.  It appears that only when the supply is indeed limited will there be any advances in alternative energy production, because at that point there will be no choice.


Edward Kramer wrote:
Thanks for the invite, but I would rather conserve my fuel, as the round trip from my house is costly and I will do my part to help the future. Remeber, there is only 70-80 year supply of fossil fuel in the world. Where are the chiildren going to play?


Reply | Messages in this Topic (23)
#4328 From: "pencil1959" <junk1@...>
Date: Mon Jun 5, 2006 4:37 am
Subject: Re: Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth 		pencil1959
Send Email Send Email
  
Maybe I'm misunderstanding your comments, but please note that:
(1) "black carbon" is not the basic building block of life; (2)
carbon is an element that is indeed the building block of life; (3)
carbon in various molecular forms is "burned" by animals every day
to form CO2; (4) CO2 is "recycled" by plants that convert it into
sugars, cellulose, etc. that are then used by animals via #2, as
well as used for building houses, burning to heat them, etc.; marine
invertebrates fix a lot of CO2 by incorporation into carbonates,
which we humans also use in various ways; (5) I haven't read any
serious scientists proposing that we will exhaust the world's carbon
supply by burning it up; (6) none of this is to dispute that CO2
levels are at record highs, but simply to remind HREG readers that
the chemistry of the carbon cycle is complex and varied because it
IS the foundation of life--let's try to keep the basic facts
straight.

Robert Johnston


--- In hreg@yahoogroups.com, "Edward Kramer" <onekindr@...> wrote:
>
> A geophysicist will argue that we are in a natural warming caused
by changing sea levels, shift in plates and natural changes in the
jet stream. Global warming might be a small cause of the natural
warming trend, and the earth atmosphee can handle any Co2 gases that
we humans combust. Electricity is suppose to make our life better,
and if we do not find a sustainable source of electricity, life for
our children and theirs will revert to prehistoric times. We are
here for a very short time, we should only borrow from mother
nature, not take. If we deplete the carbon resources,
> what is the next generation going to do for the very basic
building life of all matter-black carbon. Rather than utilizing the
carbon for the solid production of physical goods, we are burning it
up in combustion for electricity. Once its gone, its gone. If we do
not wake up and make some serious changes in our lifestyles, how we
use the exiting resources, the future does not look so bright the
children.
>   ----- Original Message -----
>   From: Sarah Carriger
>   To: hreg@yahoogroups.com
>   Sent: Sunday, June 04, 2006 6:53 PM
>   Subject: Re: [hreg] Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth
>
>
>   I do not understand the comment of where the children are going
to play.  Same place they played before the turn of the 20th
century - before oil production became a big business - outside.  If
fossil fuel is causing global warming, then isn't this a good thing
that we run out of fossil fuels???  This planet and her inhabitants
survived just fine without oil and we can do it again.  It appears
that only when the supply is indeed limited will there be any
advances in alternative energy production, because at that point
there will be no choice.
>
>
>   Edward Kramer wrote:
>     Thanks for the invite, but I would rather conserve my fuel, as
the round trip from my house is costly and I will do my part to help
the future. Remeber, there is only 70-80 year supply of fossil fuel
in the world. Where are the chiildren going to play?
>
>
>
>   SPONSORED LINKS Renewable energy  Renewable energy resources
Renewable energy sources
>         Renewable energy system  Renewable energy news  Houston
texas
>
>
> -------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------
>   YAHOO! GROUPS LINKS
>
>     a..  Visit your group "hreg" on the web.
>
>     b..  To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
>      hreg-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
>
>     c..  Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms
of Service.
>
>
> -------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------
>

Reply | Messages in this Topic (23)
#4329 From: "Edward Kramer" <onekindr@...>
Date: Mon Jun 5, 2006 12:28 pm
Subject: Re: Re: Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth 		onekindrtx
Send Email Send Email
 
Maybe what I meant to say is carbon is in your every day life -from the tires on the car (are they rubber): or the PC housing, to the packageing of your groceries etc. That is our foundation of consumer products. Does a barrel of oil go for 100 % usage of  gasoline and petrol products? Next time you eat a chocolate bar, think of what is in that chocolate bar. The real treasure thats in  oil is the refined black carbon, the building block of a plastics. Plastics equate to consumption which equals growth. The delimea we face is how to conserve. If you watch PBS, even Chevron advertises that half the worlds energy supply is used up, the problem is how to effectively use the rest. For sure, it is going to be more expensive, and hence under a capitilistic system, the growth of other competing dollar entities are going to shrink. That is not a good thing at all. The city of Houston has not not taken heed to this warning. they are by far the largest user of electricity, yet have not one action plan to make changes. I heard they found some federal money and invested in a wind farm at King Ranch. Maybe they can open an annex buiding next door.
----- Original Message -----
From: pencil1959
Sent: Sunday, June 04, 2006 11:37 PM
Subject: [hreg] Re: Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth

Maybe I'm misunderstanding your comments, but please note that: 
(1) "black carbon" is not the basic building block of life; (2)
carbon is an element that is indeed the building block of life; (3)
carbon in various molecular forms is "burned" by animals every day
to form CO2; (4) CO2 is "recycled" by plants that convert it into
sugars, cellulose, etc. that are then used by animals via #2, as
well as used for building houses, burning to heat them, etc.; marine
invertebrates fix a lot of CO2 by incorporation into carbonates,
which we humans also use in various ways; (5) I haven't read any
serious scientists proposing that we will exhaust the world's carbon
supply by burning it up; (6) none of this is to dispute that CO2
levels are at record highs, but simply to remind HREG readers that
the chemistry of the carbon cycle is complex and varied because it
IS the foundation of life--let's try to keep the basic facts
straight.

Robert Johnston


--- In hreg@yahoogroups.com, "Edward Kramer" <onekindr@...> wrote:
>
> A geophysicist will argue that we are in a natural warming caused
by changing sea levels, shift in plates and natural changes in the
jet stream. Global warming might be a small cause of the natural
warming trend, and the earth atmosphee can handle any Co2 gases that
we humans combust. Electricity is suppose to make our life better,
and if we do not find a sustainable source of electricity, life for
our children and theirs will revert to prehistoric times. We are
here for a very short time, we should only borrow from mother
nature, not take. If we deplete the carbon resources,
> what is the next generation going to do for the very basic
building life of all matter-black carbon. Rather than utilizing the
carbon for the solid production of physical goods, we are burning it
up in combustion for electricity. Once its gone, its gone. If we do
not wake up and make some serious changes in our lifestyles, how we
use the exiting resources, the future does not look so bright the
children.
>   ----- Original Message -----
>   From: Sarah Carriger
>   To: hreg@yahoogroups.com
>   Sent: Sunday, June 04, 2006 6:53 PM
>   Subject: Re: [hreg] Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth
>
>
>   I do not understand the comment of where the children are going
to play.  Same place they played before the turn of the 20th
century - before oil production became a big business - outside.  If
fossil fuel is causing global warming, then isn't this a good thing
that we run out of fossil fuels???  This planet and her inhabitants
survived just fine without oil and we can do it again.  It appears
that only when the supply is indeed limited will there be any
advances in alternative energy production, because at that point
there will be no choice.
>
>
>   Edward Kramer wrote:
>     Thanks for the invite, but I would rather conserve my fuel, as
the round trip from my house is costly and I will do my part to help
the future. Remeber, there is only 70-80 year supply of fossil fuel
in the world. Where are the chiildren going to play?
>
>
>
>   SPONSORED LINKS Renewable energy  Renewable energy resources 
Renewable energy sources 
>         Renewable energy system  Renewable energy news  Houston
texas 
>
>
> -------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------
>   YAHOO! GROUPS LINKS
>
>     a..  Visit your group "hreg" on the web.
>      
>     b..  To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
>      hreg-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
>      
>     c..  Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms
of Service.
>
>
> -------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------
>






Reply | Messages in this Topic (23)
#4330 From: "J. P. Malone" <JPMALONE@...>
Date: Mon Jun 5, 2006 1:04 pm
Subject: China solar hot water 		jpmalone42
Send Email Send Email
 

I have provide a link to a lengthy article below on how China is using solar hot water heaters.  I would guess the US does not have 30 households using solar hot water.

 

http://today.reuters.com/business/newsArticle.aspx?type=ousiv&storyid=2006-06-04T012846Z_01_PEK298574_RTRIDST_0_BUSINESSPRO-ENERGY-CHINA-SOLAR-DC.XML&WTmodLoc=InvArt-R3-MostViewedBiz-1

 

 

…company has earned a fortune manufacturing solar heaters, relatively low-tech rooftop devices which capture the sun's energy to provide water for baths and washing and are at the forefront of a renewable energy drive.

At least 30 million Chinese households now have one and last year the country accounted for around 80 percent of the world market, said Eric Martinot, visiting scholar at Beijing's Tsinghua University. "We are at 15 to 20 percent annual growth and I don't see that slowing down." …

See link for full article.

 

 

J. Patrick Malone

 


--
No virus found in this outgoing message.
Checked by AVG Free Edition.
Version: 7.1.394 / Virus Database: 268.8.1/355 - Release Date: 6/2/2006


Reply | Messages in this Topic (3)
#4331 From: Paul Archer <tigger@...>
Date: Mon Jun 5, 2006 1:08 pm
Subject: Re: China solar hot water 		geek65535
Send Email Send Email
  
Just FYI: If you have a really long URL like this, go to www.tinyurl.com and
compact it:

http://tinyurl.com/kn48n
It's a lot easier to post. (And that is the same link as below, BTW).

Paul



8:04am, J. P. Malone wrote:

> I have provide a link to a lengthy article below on how China is using solar
> hot water heaters.  I would guess the US does not have 30 households using
> solar hot water.
>
> HYPERLINK
> "http://today.reuters.com/business/newsArticle.aspx?type=ousiv&storyid=2006-
> 06-04T012846Z_01_PEK298574_RTRIDST_0_BUSINESSPRO-ENERGY-CHINA-SOLAR-DC.XML&W
> TmodLoc=InvArt-R3-MostViewedBiz-1"http://today.reuters.com/business/newsArti
> cle.aspx?type=ousiv&storyid=2006-06-04T012846Z_01_PEK298574_RTRIDST_0_BUSINE
> SSPRO-ENERGY-CHINA-SOLAR-DC.XML&WTmodLoc=InvArt-R3-MostViewedBiz-1
>
>
> …company has earned a fortune manufacturing solar heaters, relatively
> low-tech rooftop devices which capture the sun's energy to provide water for
> baths and washing and are at the forefront of a renewable energy drive.
> At least 30 million Chinese households now have one and last year the
> country accounted for around 80 percent of the world market, said Eric
> Martinot, visiting scholar at Beijing's Tsinghua University. "We are at 15
> to 20 percent annual growth and I don't see that slowing down." …
> See link for full article.
>
>
> J. Patrick Malone
>
>
> --
> No virus found in this outgoing message.
> Checked by AVG Free Edition.
> Version: 7.1.394 / Virus Database: 268.8.1/355 - Release Date: 6/2/2006
>
>



----------------------------------------------------------
"Fun's over fellows. If you're going to beat up my friends
in my bar, there's a two-drink minimum." -- Moe --
----------------------------------------------------------

Reply | Messages in this Topic (3)
#4332 From: "will thurmond" <willthurmond@...>
Date: Mon Jun 5, 2006 1:00 pm
Subject: Re: Re: Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth 		willthurmond...
Send Email Send Email
 
Edward

I'll try to say this politely - please step off the soapbox. You have repeatedly made unsubstantiated statements on the HREG listserv, much to the chagrin of its members.   You should know what you're talking about before making declarations.  If you research what you wish to discuss before you enter the "soapbox zone", you will understand the issue.  You will also have factual, actual, information to substantiate your argument, and a solid platform to stand on. Please employ more facts and less conjecture and hyperbole in your entries.

One example - you said "The city of Houston has not not taken heed to this warning. they are by far the largest user of electricity, yet have not one action plan to make changes."   Where did you get this information from Edward? An update to your statement in the p.s. will bring you current on this "declaration."

I wish you all the best in expressing yourself as factually as you do actually.  You will find greater support for your ideas if they are defend-able.  Good luck.

Will

p.s.  here is some information on Houston's Alternative Energy initiatives that will update your last statement. You will learn there are "more than a few" Alt-Energy initiatives in Houston, contrary to your previous statements.   That is, if you have a real interest in Renewable Energy and Alt-Energy projects. Otherwise, you wouldn't be here, right?

========================================

Alternative Energy Industry Guide to Houston
http://www.houston.org/industryGuide/alternativeEnergy.asp

As the Energy Capital of the World, Houston uses its spirit of innovation and collaboration to forge new ground across all aspects of the energy sector.

Extensive research and development is underway on developing energy sources that are not based on the burning of fossil fuels or the splitting of atoms. These include geothermal, wind, tide, solar, ground source heat pumps, biofuels hydroelectric and hydrogen fuel cells. The Greater Houston Partnership is working with area organizations to develop and demonstrate advanced hydrogen and fuel cell technologies that will reduce our nation's dependency on oil, improve air quality and maintain the region's economic competitiveness.

Houston has the tools and infrastructure in place to capitalize on this emerging sector of the energy industry.

Industry Facts:

  • Texas is one of the top three states in the country in wind power potential
  • In 2003, Texas installed more wind power than the entire United States had in any other year
  • Many of Houston's school crossing lights are powered by solar energy

Green Mountain Energy Case Study

Green Mountain Energy is one of 11 electric retailers from whom Houstonians can purchase their electric power. Much of Green Mountain Energy's source for electricity is wind power.

The Green Mountain Energy Wind Farm in Borden and Scurry counties in West Texas produces enough electricity to power 30,000 homes.

Alternative Energy Downloadable Fact Sheet

Who's Who in Houston Alternative Enery:

Alternative Energy Resources:

  • Business Development Division of the Greater Houston Partnership
  • Houston Advanced Research Center
  • Houston Energy Collaborative
  • Houston Technology Center

Energy Events in Houston

Energy events bring together top talent, innovation and information.

  • Energy events in Houston include: the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) and the Energy Venture Forum. Held annually in Houston, OTC is the energy industry's premier conference and exhibition focused on deepwater offshore technology. The 51,320 participants from 110 nations in 2005 represented OTC's highest attendance since 1985. The exhibition included 2,087 exhibiting companies, totaling more than 410,000 net square feet, filling all available indoor and outdoor space.
  • The Energy Venture Forum at Houston's Rice University introduces the most promising early-stage energy-related technology companies to leading venture capitalists. Participants hear about cutting-edge research and learn about emerging technology developments in traditional and alternative energy. Approximately 450 attendees participated in 2004.

Energy Resources in Houston

Where to go and what to do if you're thinking of starting, moving or expanding your business in Houston.

Some fuel for thought: From oil and gas to chemical development and production, the 10-county Houston region is the center of all things energy. The region offers a solid energy and chemical foundation and a workforce skilled in meeting the sector's needs. The region's large concentration of oil expertise and experience is a magnet attracting more oil expertise and experience to the area.

The Greater Houston Partnership has a unique place among business organizations. It combines opportunities for economic development, international business and public policy development. As the Houston region's primary business advocate, the Partnership helps keep businesses connected and works in their interests.

Energy Facts

  • Forty-eight percent of the region's economic base employment is related to energy.
  • Houston is headquarters for 17 energy-related Fortune 500 companies.
  • Houston is home to the cutting-edge Offshore Technology Conference (OTC).
  • Houston houses more than 3,600 energy-related establishments.
  • Houston is home to 13 of the nation's 20 largest natural gas transmission companies.
  • Houston has nearly 600 exploration and production firms.
  • Houston has more than 170 pipeline operators.
  • Hundreds of manufacturers of energy-sector products call Houston home.

In recent years, industry giants such as CITGO and Noble and smaller energy-related companies including Johnson Engineering and Hydralift, Inc. have relocated to Houston. Another 192 energy businesses have found Houston fertile ground for growth. In every case, expansions and relocations equal jobs for the Houston region.

Houston Entrepreneurial Enterprises Facts:

  • The Houston region is home to more than 85,000 small businesses
  • Houston's dynamic economy, well-developed information technology sector, talented workforce, business-friendly environment, low costs of living and ease of doing business make it a natural magnet for entrepreneurs.
  • Houston ranked #2 on the Milken Institute's 2003 Best-Performing Cities Index
  • Site Selection magazine ranked the Houston-Baytown-Sugar Land metro area in the top 10 of Metro Areas for Investment in its March, 2004 issue
  • Houston has the lowest cost of living among the country's 24 largest metropolitan areas, according to the ACCRA Cost of Living Index for the first quarter of 2005
  • With no state personal income or state property taxes, Houston has one of the lowest per-family tax burdens of any major U.S. city

Enterpreneurial Enterprises Resources:

  • The Greater Houston Partnership Emerging Business Council
  • The Greater Houston Partnership Business Development Division
  • Texas Economic Development Web site
  • Small Business Administration
  • University of Houston Small Business Development Center

Enterpreneurial Enterprises Events:

The Greater Houston Partnership Super Summit, held yearly, helps emerging businesses learn to better partner with established corporations


============================================

Oil Companies, Experts Discuss Alternative Energy Development
http://www.voanews.com/english/archive/2006-02/2006-02-07-voa1.cfm?CFID=14451546&CFTOKEN=59544590
By Greg Flakus Houston 07 February 2006


Around 1,800 oil and gas company executives, government energy ministers and other players in the world energy sector have gathered in Houston for a special emphasis on developing new sources of energy.

The theme for this year's conference is "The New Prize: Energy's Next Era," and that encompasses everything from extraction of oil from Canada's extensive tar sands to development of solar power and ethanol.

CERA Senior Advisor James Rosenfield is one of the three men who founded the conference in 1983. He tells VOA that many of the big oil companies represented here are already investing a lot of money in alternative energy programs.

"A lot of the new economy of energy is going to be driven by the international oil companies such as Shell, BP and Exxon, who are really investing billions and billions of dollars in R and D (Research and Development) for new sources of supply, solar alternatives, fuel cells, distributed generation, really across the spectrum," Rosenfield said. "In the case of BP, their focus has been on electric power, actually, using a lot of their technology to look at alternative and renewable sources of electric power generation."

Rosenfield says using CERAWeek to focus on such issues as alternative energy, non-conventional oil sources and conservation could have important consequences worldwide because participants represent every aspect of the international energy business.

"We will have exploration and production companies, national oil companies, integrated oil companies, but also utilities, energy end users, consumers such as Dow and Boeing and some of the automotive companies as well and then the financial institutions that provide the capital, in many cases, for the industry," he said.

Included in the mix of participants are representatives from several member nations of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries, known as OPEC. One of the chief speakers at the opening ceremony Tuesday will be Saudi Arabia's Oil Minister, Ali Naimi.

OPEC leaders have at times expressed concern over US and European efforts to develop alternative energy because it could divert investment from development of conventional energy sources. In an appearance here in Houston last year, the head of the Saudi oil company, Aramco, said his nation's vast oil reserves represent a reliable supply of energy that alternative energy programs are not likely to equal any time soon.

But Rosenfield says he does not believe the Saudis are against development of other energy sources.

"I think that the Saudis actually take a view that we are in this together, that we need to build the world's oil and energy supply, to build a stable and diversified supply base," he added. "We will hear from Mr. Naimi and what he has to say, but, while they are committed to an oil and hydrocarbon economy, they also recognize that over multi-decades we are going to be looking towards a lot of different sources of supply as well."

In his state of the union address last week, President Bush called for programs that would lessen U.S. dependence on foreign sources of oil and gave special emphasis to the development of biofuels like ethanol. Brazil, which has a successful ethanol program based on fuel from sugar cane, is also represented at CERAWeek and Rosenfield says he expects a lot of discussion among participants about such programs.

=====================================



On 6/5/06, Edward Kramer <onekindr@...> wrote:
Maybe what I meant to say is carbon is in your every day life -from the tires on the car (are they rubber): or the PC housing, to the packageing of your groceries etc. That is our foundation of consumer products. Does a barrel of oil go for 100 % usage of  gasoline and petrol products? Next time you eat a chocolate bar, think of what is in that chocolate bar. The real treasure thats in  oil is the refined black carbon, the building block of a plastics. Plastics equate to consumption which equals growth. The delimea we face is how to conserve. If you watch PBS, even Chevron advertises that half the worlds energy supply is used up, the problem is how to effectively use the rest. For sure, it is going to be more expensive, and hence under a capitilistic system, the growth of other competing dollar entities are going to shrink. That is not a good thing at all. The city of Houston has not not taken heed to this warning. they are by far the largest user of electricity, yet have not one action plan to make changes. I heard they found some federal money and invested in a wind farm at King Ranch. Maybe they can open an annex buiding next door.
----- Original Message -----
From: pencil1959
Sent: Sunday, June 04, 2006 11:37 PM
Subject: [hreg] Re: Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth

Maybe I'm misunderstanding your comments, but please note that: 
(1) "black carbon" is not the basic building block of life; (2)
carbon is an element that is indeed the building block of life; (3)
carbon in various molecular forms is "burned" by animals every day
to form CO2; (4) CO2 is "recycled" by plants that convert it into
sugars, cellulose, etc. that are then used by animals via #2, as
well as used for building houses, burning to heat them, etc.; marine
invertebrates fix a lot of CO2 by incorporation into carbonates,
which we humans also use in various ways; (5) I haven't read any
serious scientists proposing that we will exhaust the world's carbon
supply by burning it up; (6) none of this is to dispute that CO2
levels are at record highs, but simply to remind HREG readers that
the chemistry of the carbon cycle is complex and varied because it
IS the foundation of life--let's try to keep the basic facts
straight.

Robert Johnston


--- In hreg@yahoogroups.com, "Edward Kramer" <onekindr@...> wrote:
>
> A geophysicist will argue that we are in a natural warming caused
by changing sea levels, shift in plates and natural changes in the
jet stream. Global warming might be a small cause of the natural
warming trend, and the earth atmosphee can handle any Co2 gases that
we humans combust. Electricity is suppose to make our life better,
and if we do not find a sustainable source of electricity, life for
our children and theirs will revert to prehistoric times. We are
here for a very short time, we should only borrow from mother
nature, not take. If we deplete the carbon resources,
> what is the next generation going to do for the very basic
building life of all matter-black carbon. Rather than utilizing the
carbon for the solid production of physical goods, we are burning it
up in combustion for electricity. Once its gone, its gone. If we do
not wake up and make some serious changes in our lifestyles, how we
use the exiting resources, the future does not look so bright the
children.
>   ----- Original Message -----
>   From: Sarah Carriger
>   To: hreg@yahoogroups.com
>   Sent: Sunday, June 04, 2006 6:53 PM
>   Subject: Re: [hreg] Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth
>
>
>   I do not understand the comment of where the children are going
to play.  Same place they played before the turn of the 20th
century - before oil production became a big business - outside.  If
fossil fuel is causing global warming, then isn't this a good thing
that we run out of fossil fuels???  This planet and her inhabitants
survived just fine without oil and we can do it again.  It appears
that only when the supply is indeed limited will there be any
advances in alternative energy production, because at that point
there will be no choice.
>
>
>   Edward Kramer wrote:
>     Thanks for the invite, but I would rather conserve my fuel, as
the round trip from my house is costly and I will do my part to help
the future. Remeber, there is only 70-80 year supply of fossil fuel
in the world. Where are the chiildren going to play?
>
>
>
>   SPONSORED LINKS Renewable energy  Renewable energy resources 
Renewable energy sources 
>         Renewable energy system  Renewable energy news  Houston
texas 
>
>
> -------------------------------------------------------------------
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>
>     a..  Visit your group "hreg" on the web.
>      
>     b..  To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
>      hreg-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
>      
>     c..  Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms
of Service.
>
>
> -------------------------------------------------------------------
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Reply | Messages in this Topic (23)
#4333 From: Garth & Kim Travis <gartht@...>
Date: Mon Jun 5, 2006 1:07 pm
Subject: Re: Do something! 		airdriel
Send Email Send Email
 
Greetings,
I see a real problem with the energy challenge, 17 of the questions are not applicable to my home and I am not sure how to answer them.  For example:  Turn your water heater down to 120° F (49° C)   I use a tankless heater that does no have a temperature setting?  What about people who use solar?  This just one example of questions that don't apply.  I have no central HVAC unit, no thermostats, etc.  We average about 450 kwh per month on our electric and 15 gal of diesel.



Any suggestions on how to answer?

Bright Blessings,
Kim



At 05:18 PM 6/4/2006, you wrote:
We spend a lot of time discussing and complaining about global warming, imported oil and pollution.  So let’s all do something (joining HREG was a great start.  J ).
 
I invite you all to take the “Energy Wise Challenge” on our home page:
http://www.txses.org/hreg/index.php
Click right below the ad for our renewable energy tour in the fall (mark that date on your calendar while you’re at it).  Please check the box that says you are already an HREG member; otherwise you’ll get another invitation to join.
 
Of course, that’s just the first step.  Once you’ve taken the quiz, see how you can improve over the next week or 2 and then come back and update your score.  Hopefully it will make you feel better to be an active HREG member.
 
If all goes well with our database, we will have statistics and even prizes at future HREG meetings for our most “energy wise” members.
 
Thank you,
Mike


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Reply | Messages in this Topic (3)
#4334 From: "J. P. Malone" <JPMALONE@...>
Date: Mon Jun 5, 2006 2:40 pm
Subject: FW: China solar hot water 		jpmalone42
Send Email Send Email
 

Sorry for the typo’s.  I doubt the US has 30 “million” households with solar hot water heaters as the article states China has.

 

J. Patrick Malone

 

From: J. P. Malone [mailto:jpmalone@...]
Sent: Monday, June 05, 2006 8:04 AM
To: 'hreg@yahoogroups.com'
Subject: China solar hot water

 

I have provide a link to a lengthy article below on how China is using solar hot water heaters.  I would guess the US does not have 30 households using solar hot water.

 

http://today.reuters.com/business/newsArticle.aspx?type=ousiv&storyid=2006-06-04T012846Z_01_PEK298574_RTRIDST_0_BUSINESSPRO-ENERGY-CHINA-SOLAR-DC.XML&WTmodLoc=InvArt-R3-MostViewedBiz-1

 

 

…company has earned a fortune manufacturing solar heaters, relatively low-tech rooftop devices which capture the sun's energy to provide water for baths and washing and are at the forefront of a renewable energy drive.

At least 30 million Chinese households now have one and last year the country accounted for around 80 percent of the world market, said Eric Martinot, visiting scholar at Beijing's Tsinghua University. "We are at 15 to 20 percent annual growth and I don't see that slowing down." …

See link for full article.

 

 

J. Patrick Malone

 


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Reply | Messages in this Topic (1)
#4335 From: Paul Archer <tigger@...>
Date: Mon Jun 5, 2006 2:38 pm
Subject: Re: Re: Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth 		geek65535
Send Email Send Email
  
7:00am, will thurmond wrote:

> Edward
>
> I'll try to say this politely - please step off the soapbox. You have
> repeatedly made unsubstantiated statements on the HREG listserv, much to the
> chagrin of its members.   You should know what you're talking about before
> making declarations.  If you research what you wish to discuss before you
> enter the "soapbox zone", you will understand the issue.  You will also have
> factual, actual, information to substantiate your argument, and a solid
> platform to stand on. Please employ more facts and less conjecture and
> hyperbole in your entries.
>
> One example - you said "The city of Houston has not not taken heed to this
> warning. they are by far the largest user of electricity, yet have not one
> action plan to make changes."   Where did you get this information from
> Edward? An update to your statement in the p.s. will bring you current on
> this "declaration."
>
> I wish you all the best in expressing yourself as factually as you do
> actually.  You will find greater support for your ideas if they are
> defend-able.  Good luck.
>
> Will
>
> p.s.  here is some information on Houston's Alternative Energy initiatives
> that will update your last statement. You will learn there are "more than a
> few" Alt-Energy initiatives in Houston, contrary to your previous
> statements.   That is, if you have a real interest in Renewable Energy and
> Alt-Energy projects. Otherwise, you wouldn't be here, right?
>
[massive snippage]

Will, I wholeheartedly agree with you in that *whoever* is speaking in a
forum like this should have his/her facts together first.
And I agree that Edward did not back up his claim that "[t]he City of
Houston ...have not one action plan to make changes." However, I think you
misread his statement, as the the information you included (which I've
snipped for space) did not counter that charge.
The specific claim was, I believe, that the City of Houston (that is the
munincipal government, not the inhabitants of Houston as a whole), which
most likely is the single largest consumer of electricity in the city, has
not taken action to reduce its energy usage. Your included information did
mention solar-powered school "crossing" lights (although I think it meant
school zone lights). I've seen these and similar lights all over the
country. They do save electricity, but considering how much light they put
out (a blink or two a second for two hours a day 5 days a week, 9 months a
year), I would guess that the primary motivation for them is to save
installation costs rather than power.

Anyway, the point I'm trying to make is just that I think Edward does bring
up a good point: I don't know *what* the City of Houston is up to as far as
energy consumption and conservation, but I'd like to find out.


Paul

Reply | Messages in this Topic (23)
#4336 From: Paul Archer <tigger@...>
Date: Mon Jun 5, 2006 2:57 pm
Subject: roof sprinkler 		geek65535
Send Email Send Email
  
I have been interested in a roof sprinkler for some time (thanks primarily
to the Travis'), and I finally put one in.

My house has a flat roof with a surface like standard asphalt shingles, but
rolled out (composition, I think they call it). I am planning on putting on
a white elastometric coating (www.coolroofs.org), as there are supposedly
coatings with reflectivity ratings of .90 or so (for comparison, a mirror
reflects around 97% or .97). But I can't afford it right now, so I figured
the sprinkler would help in the meantime.

The system is fairly simple. I'm using a cheap oscillating sprinkler in the
middle of the roof (covers about 80% of the roof, and about 90% of the
living space--misses the garages), and fed by a standard garden hose hidden
by running it up a drain spout.
The water is controlled by a standard underground sprinkler valve, which is
in turn controlled by an X-10 "universal" module, which is in turn
controlled by a X-10 CM11A computer interface module. The advantage to this
setup is two-fold. I didn't have to do any electronics work (it's all off
the shelf parts), and I can very easily change the pattern right from my
machine.

Right now the sprinkler comes on from 9am to 7pm, in 10 minute increments
for 10 seconds at a time. I still need to tweak this a bit. I have noticed
that I don't get any runoff with this, which means all the water is
evaporating. If I go to 10 minute increments with 15 second runs, I do get
some runoff. I'm not sure if that's good or not. On the one hand, it means
the roof is staying wet. On the other hand, it means the roof is staying
wet.
I'd also like to add a temprature sensor into the mix. That way I can modify
the pattern or stop it entirely, depending on the outside temperature.

Paul Archer


-------------------------------------------------------------
witzelsucht (vit'sel-zoocht) [Ger.]
    "A mental condition characteristic of frontal lobe lesions
    and marked by the making of poor jokes and puns and
    the telling of pointless stories, at which
    the patient himself is intensely amused."
From Dorland's Illustrated Medical Dictionary, 26th edition.
-------------------------------------------------------------

Reply | Messages in this Topic (5)
#4337 From: chasmauch@...
Date: Mon Jun 5, 2006 11:18 am
Subject: Re: Re: Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth 		charlesleemauch
Send Email Send Email
 
It seems pretty obvious to me that there is a lot of wasted energy in Houston, although I have no idea exactly how much. Here are a couple of things I have long wondered about:
 
1.  You can look at the city's skyline at any hour - say 2am - and all the big buildings are lit up like Christmas trees. They have to be lit during the day when people are working there, but why all night too - in essence 24 hours per day? I know the cleaning crews are at work but presumably they only do one or two floors at a time, after which it seems they could turn out the lights and go to the next floor. I have heard that it's cheaper (considering bulb life) to leave a florescent light on all the time than it is to turn it on and off - is that the reason they do it? And might that have been true in the days of cheap energy but no longer so?
 
Same goes with computers - I have heard that they use a surprising amount of energy when you leave them on all the time (as most folks like me do) because for some reason it is harmful to turn them on and off every day. There are millions of them around these days in both offices and residences.
 
I realize the buildings and most of the computers do not belong to the city - they are privately owned, but still the city could provide leadership in doing something about fairly simple things like that (and various other things) if they just gathered up some data and publicized it. Or are these two items of much less importance? I admit I don't have the facts.
 
Charlie Mauch

Reply | Messages in this Topic (23)
#4338 From: "Bashir Syed" <bsyed@...>
Date: Mon Jun 5, 2006 3:53 pm
Subject: Re: Re: Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth 		drycellsc
Send Email Send Email
 
I have been reading this discussion after returning from China, previous weekend. As a physicist who  spent two years working for Rockwell International Science Center in early seventies incharge of the instrumentation to collect Air Pollution data under an EPA contract. We must understand the Solar Energy which comes from SUN in the form of Electromagentic Waves (light is a part of visible portion of the electromagnetic waves of the electromagnetic waves spectrum) called Photons. The energy of the photons according to deBroglie, the energy of photons is proportional to the frequency of the photons (or inversely proportional to the wavelength of photons) striking matter (solid, liquid, and gas). This energy is transfered to the receiving medium atmosphere and earth. Our atmosphere is composed of many gases (which abosrb energy from these photons) and solid particulate matter (which scatters radiation).  When we look at the Irradiance of incident solar radiation plotted against the wavelength of photons, we find many absorption bands characteristic of various components of our atmosphere (Ozone, water vapor, oxygen, and carbon dioxide). It turns out that in the case of Carbon-dioxide, this absorbed energy appears in the form of Thermal energy or heat which is transfered to other molecules in the air. Thus the larger the number of carbon dioxide molecules are present in the atmosphere the more heat transfer takes place which in turn apears as increase in the temperature of materials in contact with air on earth. Thus the earth warming is a reality and not fiction. The increase of Carbon-dioxide translates into cummulative effect of all molecules which is observed as increased thermal energy. Carbon dioxide has absorption bands in the region of about 1.8 microns  and beyond 2.4 microns  of wavelength ( one micron = 0.000,001 meter). Ozone absorbs photons in the UV range, and any depletion of Ozone translates into transmission of Photons of Ultra-Violet (UV) which interacts with the cells of our skin, and long exposure of UV translates into Carecenoma or Skin Cancer.
Unless people become aware of this phenomenon based on laws of Physics, which are universal in nature (and do not obey the laws of Oil industry), the scientists are not talking rubbish as often conveyed in the media to confuse citizens/tax-payers.
There was an article published in "IEEE Spectrum magazine" regarding the RF pollution caused by Cellular Phone Networks, in December 2002 issue pertaining to interaction of radiation emanating from the cell phones with brain, which penetrates to a depth of about three inches inside our skull/brain. As we know that RF energy interacts with cells which contain water molecules. The high frequencies used  by most Cell phones caused transfer of energy in the form of heat to water molecules, causing damage to cells in the brain tissue, which may eventually take the shape of tumors in the brain if a person is not careful about the time spent on the Cell phones (the effects of any kind of radiation are cummulative).
 
Here is something which will startle you. During the 1991 Gulf War, our government blamed Iraqi troops for setting up the "oil well fires in Kuwait," but the truth is far from this PR job. According to an article "Why Are Data from Kuwait Being Withheld?" [by John Horgan, Scientific American, page 20, July 1991] The  Bush administration in 1991, ordered NOAA to withhold  Satellite data being forwarded to EPA, and later on when this matter was exposed by the media they had the same attitude of coverup using the excuse "the task force is supposed to give information to Kuwait and Saudi Arabia first" before considering it for release to US scientists. I would recommend all to read this one page article in Scientific American in order to learn how politics plays the role to spread disinformation in order to sway public opinion, by the politicians supported by their industrial supporters/constituents.   
 
Bashir A. Syed
Member: ASES, ISES, APS, IEEE, UCS, New York Academy of Sciences
Member of Radiation Safety Committee NASA/JSC (1995-2003).
----- Original Message -----
Sent: Monday, June 05, 2006 7:28 AM
Subject: Re: [hreg] Re: Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth

Maybe what I meant to say is carbon is in your every day life -from the tires on the car (are they rubber): or the PC housing, to the packageing of your groceries etc. That is our foundation of consumer products. Does a barrel of oil go for 100 % usage of  gasoline and petrol products? Next time you eat a chocolate bar, think of what is in that chocolate bar. The real treasure thats in  oil is the refined black carbon, the building block of a plastics. Plastics equate to consumption which equals growth. The delimea we face is how to conserve. If you watch PBS, even Chevron advertises that half the worlds energy supply is used up, the problem is how to effectively use the rest. For sure, it is going to be more expensive, and hence under a capitilistic system, the growth of other competing dollar entities are going to shrink. That is not a good thing at all. The city of Houston has not not taken heed to this warning. they are by far the largest user of electricity, yet have not one action plan to make changes. I heard they found some federal money and invested in a wind farm at King Ranch. Maybe they can open an annex buiding next door.
----- Original Message -----
From: pencil1959
Sent: Sunday, June 04, 2006 11:37 PM
Subject: [hreg] Re: Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth

Maybe I'm misunderstanding your comments, but please note that: 
(1) "black carbon" is not the basic building block of life; (2)
carbon is an element that is indeed the building block of life; (3)
carbon in various molecular forms is "burned" by animals every day
to form CO2; (4) CO2 is "recycled" by plants that convert it into
sugars, cellulose, etc. that are then used by animals via #2, as
well as used for building houses, burning to heat them, etc.; marine
invertebrates fix a lot of CO2 by incorporation into carbonates,
which we humans also use in various ways; (5) I haven't read any
serious scientists proposing that we will exhaust the world's carbon
supply by burning it up; (6) none of this is to dispute that CO2
levels are at record highs, but simply to remind HREG readers that
the chemistry of the carbon cycle is complex and varied because it
IS the foundation of life--let's try to keep the basic facts
straight.

Robert Johnston


--- In hreg@yahoogroups.com, "Edward Kramer" <onekindr@...> wrote:
>
> A geophysicist will argue that we are in a natural warming caused
by changing sea levels, shift in plates and natural changes in the
jet stream. Global warming might be a small cause of the natural
warming trend, and the earth atmosphee can handle any Co2 gases that
we humans combust. Electricity is suppose to make our life better,
and if we do not find a sustainable source of electricity, life for
our children and theirs will revert to prehistoric times. We are
here for a very short time, we should only borrow from mother
nature, not take. If we deplete the carbon resources,
> what is the next generation going to do for the very basic
building life of all matter-black carbon. Rather than utilizing the
carbon for the solid production of physical goods, we are burning it
up in combustion for electricity. Once its gone, its gone. If we do
not wake up and make some serious changes in our lifestyles, how we
use the exiting resources, the future does not look so bright the
children.
>   ----- Original Message -----
>   From: Sarah Carriger
>   To: hreg@yahoogroups.com
>   Sent: Sunday, June 04, 2006 6:53 PM
>   Subject: Re: [hreg] Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth
>
>
>   I do not understand the comment of where the children are going
to play.  Same place they played before the turn of the 20th
century - before oil production became a big business - outside.  If
fossil fuel is causing global warming, then isn't this a good thing
that we run out of fossil fuels???  This planet and her inhabitants
survived just fine without oil and we can do it again.  It appears
that only when the supply is indeed limited will there be any
advances in alternative energy production, because at that point
there will be no choice.
>
>
>   Edward Kramer wrote:
>     Thanks for the invite, but I would rather conserve my fuel, as
the round trip from my house is costly and I will do my part to help
the future. Remeber, there is only 70-80 year supply of fossil fuel
in the world. Where are the chiildren going to play?
>
>
>
>   SPONSORED LINKS Renewable energy  Renewable energy resources 
Renewable energy sources 
>         Renewable energy system  Renewable energy news  Houston
texas 
>
>
> -------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------
>   YAHOO! GROUPS LINKS
>
>     a..  Visit your group "hreg" on the web.
>      
>     b..  To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
>      hreg-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
>      
>     c..  Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms
of Service.
>
>
> -------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------
>






Reply | Messages in this Topic (23)
#4339 From: "Edward Kramer" <onekindr@...>
Date: Mon Jun 5, 2006 4:25 pm
Subject: Re: Re: Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth 		onekindrtx
Send Email Send Email
 
Will, 
 
   Why does the city of Austin have a rebate plan, allocated from the tax revenues it receives from electric bills to promote the installation of PV systems.?  why dioes Walgreen does install 122 of their stores in California with PV systems. Why does Whole Foods Markets, based out of Austin , with four stores in Houston install PV systems in their California stores and "green" it up on their web site.Could it be they are good stewards of the environment, or that they are taking advantage of Federal and local financial (rebate) incentives to add solar. What incentive plan does the city of Houston have? One nice thing about this forum is that we exchange ideas and might come to some important dialogue.  Just briefing thru your add on I see a lot of wind farms. They are nice, but where are they located? West Texas is nie for wind farms, but that is a long way from my home.
----- Original Message -----
Sent: Monday, June 05, 2006 8:00 AM
Subject: Re: [hreg] Re: Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth

Edward

I'll try to say this politely - please step off the soapbox. You have repeatedly made unsubstantiated statements on the HREG listserv, much to the chagrin of its members.   You should know what you're talking about before making declarations.  If you research what you wish to discuss before you enter the "soapbox zone", you will understand the issue.  You will also have factual, actual, information to substantiate your argument, and a solid platform to stand on. Please employ more facts and less conjecture and hyperbole in your entries.

One example - you said "The city of Houston has not not taken heed to this warning. they are by far the largest user of electricity, yet have not one action plan to make changes."   Where did you get this information from Edward? An update to your statement in the p.s. will bring you current on this "declaration."

I wish you all the best in expressing yourself as factually as you do actually.  You will find greater support for your ideas if they are defend-able.  Good luck.

Will

p.s.  here is some information on Houston's Alternative Energy initiatives that will update your last statement. You will learn there are "more than a few" Alt-Energy initiatives in Houston, contrary to your previous statements.   That is, if you have a real interest in Renewable Energy and Alt-Energy projects. Otherwise, you wouldn't be here, right?

========================================

Alternative Energy Industry Guide to Houston
http://www.houston.org/industryGuide/alternativeEnergy.asp

As the Energy Capital of the World, Houston uses its spirit of innovation and collaboration to forge new ground across all aspects of the energy sector.

Extensive research and development is underway on developing energy sources that are not based on the burning of fossil fuels or the splitting of atoms. These include geothermal, wind, tide, solar, ground source heat pumps, biofuels hydroelectric and hydrogen fuel cells. The Greater Houston Partnership is working with area organizations to develop and demonstrate advanced hydrogen and fuel cell technologies that will reduce our nation's dependency on oil, improve air quality and maintain the region's economic competitiveness.

Houston has the tools and infrastructure in place to capitalize on this emerging sector of the energy industry.

Industry Facts:

  • Texas is one of the top three states in the country in wind power potential
  • In 2003, Texas installed more wind power than the entire United States had in any other year
  • Many of Houston's school crossing lights are powered by solar energy

Green Mountain Energy Case Study

Green Mountain Energy is one of 11 electric retailers from whom Houstonians can purchase their electric power. Much of Green Mountain Energy's source for electricity is wind power.

The Green Mountain Energy Wind Farm in Borden and Scurry counties in West Texas produces enough electricity to power 30,000 homes.

Alternative Energy Downloadable Fact Sheet

Who's Who in Houston Alternative Enery:

Alternative Energy Resources:

  • Business Development Division of the Greater Houston Partnership
  • Houston Advanced Research Center
  • Houston Energy Collaborative
  • Houston Technology Center

Energy Events in Houston

Energy events bring together top talent, innovation and information.

  • Energy events in Houston include: the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) and the Energy Venture Forum. Held annually in Houston, OTC is the energy industry's premier conference and exhibition focused on deepwater offshore technology. The 51,320 participants from 110 nations in 2005 represented OTC's highest attendance since 1985. The exhibition included 2,087 exhibiting companies, totaling more than 410,000 net square feet, filling all available indoor and outdoor space.
  • The Energy Venture Forum at Houston's Rice University introduces the most promising early-stage energy-related technology companies to leading venture capitalists. Participants hear about cutting-edge research and learn about emerging technology developments in traditional and alternative energy. Approximately 450 attendees participated in 2004.

Energy Resources in Houston

Where to go and what to do if you're thinking of starting, moving or expanding your business in Houston.

Some fuel for thought: From oil and gas to chemical development and production, the 10-county Houston region is the center of all things energy. The region offers a solid energy and chemical foundation and a workforce skilled in meeting the sector's needs. The region's large concentration of oil expertise and experience is a magnet attracting more oil expertise and experience to the area.

The Greater Houston Partnership has a unique place among business organizations. It combines opportunities for economic development, international business and public policy development. As the Houston region's primary business advocate, the Partnership helps keep businesses connected and works in their interests.

Energy Facts

  • Forty-eight percent of the region's economic base employment is related to energy.
  • Houston is headquarters for 17 energy-related Fortune 500 companies.
  • Houston is home to the cutting-edge Offshore Technology Conference (OTC).
  • Houston houses more than 3,600 energy-related establishments.
  • Houston is home to 13 of the nation's 20 largest natural gas transmission companies.
  • Houston has nearly 600 exploration and production firms.
  • Houston has more than 170 pipeline operators.
  • Hundreds of manufacturers of energy-sector products call Houston home.

In recent years, industry giants such as CITGO and Noble and smaller energy-related companies including Johnson Engineering and Hydralift, Inc. have relocated to Houston. Another 192 energy businesses have found Houston fertile ground for growth. In every case, expansions and relocations equal jobs for the Houston region.

Houston Entrepreneurial Enterprises Facts:

  • The Houston region is home to more than 85,000 small businesses
  • Houston's dynamic economy, well-developed information technology sector, talented workforce, business-friendly environment, low costs of living and ease of doing business make it a natural magnet for entrepreneurs.
  • Houston ranked #2 on the Milken Institute's 2003 Best-Performing Cities Index
  • Site Selection magazine ranked the Houston-Baytown-Sugar Land metro area in the top 10 of Metro Areas for Investment in its March, 2004 issue
  • Houston has the lowest cost of living among the country's 24 largest metropolitan areas, according to the ACCRA Cost of Living Index for the first quarter of 2005
  • With no state personal income or state property taxes, Houston has one of the lowest per-family tax burdens of any major U.S. city

Enterpreneurial Enterprises Resources:

  • The Greater Houston Partnership Emerging Business Council
  • The Greater Houston Partnership Business Development Division
  • Texas Economic Development Web site
  • Small Business Administration
  • University of Houston Small Business Development Center

Enterpreneurial Enterprises Events:

The Greater Houston Partnership Super Summit, held yearly, helps emerging businesses learn to better partner with established corporations


============================================

Oil Companies, Experts Discuss Alternative Energy Development
http://www.voanews.com/english/archive/2006-02/2006-02-07-voa1.cfm?CFID=14451546&CFTOKEN=59544590
By Greg Flakus Houston 07 February 2006


Around 1,800 oil and gas company executives, government energy ministers and other players in the world energy sector have gathered in Houston for a special emphasis on developing new sources of energy.

The theme for this year's conference is "The New Prize: Energy's Next Era," and that encompasses everything from extraction of oil from Canada's extensive tar sands to development of solar power and ethanol.

CERA Senior Advisor James Rosenfield is one of the three men who founded the conference in 1983. He tells VOA that many of the big oil companies represented here are already investing a lot of money in alternative energy programs.

"A lot of the new economy of energy is going to be driven by the international oil companies such as Shell, BP and Exxon, who are really investing billions and billions of dollars in R and D (Research and Development) for new sources of supply, solar alternatives, fuel cells, distributed generation, really across the spectrum," Rosenfield said. "In the case of BP, their focus has been on electric power, actually, using a lot of their technology to look at alternative and renewable sources of electric power generation."

Rosenfield says using CERAWeek to focus on such issues as alternative energy, non-conventional oil sources and conservation could have important consequences worldwide because participants represent every aspect of the international energy business.

"We will have exploration and production companies, national oil companies, integrated oil companies, but also utilities, energy end users, consumers such as Dow and Boeing and some of the automotive companies as well and then the financial institutions that provide the capital, in many cases, for the industry," he said.

Included in the mix of participants are representatives from several member nations of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries, known as OPEC. One of the chief speakers at the opening ceremony Tuesday will be Saudi Arabia's Oil Minister, Ali Naimi.

OPEC leaders have at times expressed concern over US and European efforts to develop alternative energy because it could divert investment from development of conventional energy sources. In an appearance here in Houston last year, the head of the Saudi oil company, Aramco, said his nation's vast oil reserves represent a reliable supply of energy that alternative energy programs are not likely to equal any time soon.

But Rosenfield says he does not believe the Saudis are against development of other energy sources.

"I think that the Saudis actually take a view that we are in this together, that we need to build the world's oil and energy supply, to build a stable and diversified supply base," he added. "We will hear from Mr. Naimi and what he has to say, but, while they are committed to an oil and hydrocarbon economy, they also recognize that over multi-decades we are going to be looking towards a lot of different sources of supply as well."

In his state of the union address last week, President Bush called for programs that would lessen U.S. dependence on foreign sources of oil and gave special emphasis to the development of biofuels like ethanol. Brazil, which has a successful ethanol program based on fuel from sugar cane, is also represented at CERAWeek and Rosenfield says he expects a lot of discussion among participants about such programs.

=====================================



On 6/5/06, Edward Kramer <onekindr@...> wrote:
Maybe what I meant to say is carbon is in your every day life -from the tires on the car (are they rubber): or the PC housing, to the packageing of your groceries etc. That is our foundation of consumer products. Does a barrel of oil go for 100 % usage of  gasoline and petrol products? Next time you eat a chocolate bar, think of what is in that chocolate bar. The real treasure thats in  oil is the refined black carbon, the building block of a plastics. Plastics equate to consumption which equals growth. The delimea we face is how to conserve. If you watch PBS, even Chevron advertises that half the worlds energy supply is used up, the problem is how to effectively use the rest. For sure, it is going to be more expensive, and hence under a capitilistic system, the growth of other competing dollar entities are going to shrink. That is not a good thing at all. The city of Houston has not not taken heed to this warning. they are by far the largest user of electricity, yet have not one action plan to make changes. I heard they found some federal money and invested in a wind farm at King Ranch. Maybe they can open an annex buiding next door.
----- Original Message -----
From: pencil1959
Sent: Sunday, June 04, 2006 11:37 PM
Subject: [hreg] Re: Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth

Maybe I'm misunderstanding your comments, but please note that: 
(1) "black carbon" is not the basic building block of life; (2)
carbon is an element that is indeed the building block of life; (3)
carbon in various molecular forms is "burned" by animals every day
to form CO2; (4) CO2 is "recycled" by plants that convert it into
sugars, cellulose, etc. that are then used by animals via #2, as
well as used for building houses, burning to heat them, etc.; marine
invertebrates fix a lot of CO2 by incorporation into carbonates,
which we humans also use in various ways; (5) I haven't read any
serious scientists proposing that we will exhaust the world's carbon
supply by burning it up; (6) none of this is to dispute that CO2
levels are at record highs, but simply to remind HREG readers that
the chemistry of the carbon cycle is complex and varied because it
IS the foundation of life--let's try to keep the basic facts
straight.

Robert Johnston


--- In hreg@yahoogroups.com, "Edward Kramer" <onekindr@...> wrote:
>
> A geophysicist will argue that we are in a natural warming caused
by changing sea levels, shift in plates and natural changes in the
jet stream. Global warming might be a small cause of the natural
warming trend, and the earth atmosphee can handle any Co2 gases that
we humans combust. Electricity is suppose to make our life better,
and if we do not find a sustainable source of electricity, life for
our children and theirs will revert to prehistoric times. We are
here for a very short time, we should only borrow from mother
nature, not take. If we deplete the carbon resources,
> what is the next generation going to do for the very basic
building life of all matter-black carbon. Rather than utilizing the
carbon for the solid production of physical goods, we are burning it
up in combustion for electricity. Once its gone, its gone. If we do
not wake up and make some serious changes in our lifestyles, how we
use the exiting resources, the future does not look so bright the
children.
>   ----- Original Message -----
>   From: Sarah Carriger
>   To: hreg@yahoogroups.com
>   Sent: Sunday, June 04, 2006 6:53 PM
>   Subject: Re: [hreg] Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth
>
>
>   I do not understand the comment of where the children are going
to play.  Same place they played before the turn of the 20th
century - before oil production became a big business - outside.  If
fossil fuel is causing global warming, then isn't this a good thing
that we run out of fossil fuels???  This planet and her inhabitants
survived just fine without oil and we can do it again.  It appears
that only when the supply is indeed limited will there be any
advances in alternative energy production, because at that point
there will be no choice.
>
>
>   Edward Kramer wrote:
>     Thanks for the invite, but I would rather conserve my fuel, as
the round trip from my house is costly and I will do my part to help
the future. Remeber, there is only 70-80 year supply of fossil fuel
in the world. Where are the chiildren going to play?
>
>
>
>   SPONSORED LINKS Renewable energy  Renewable energy resources 
Renewable energy sources 
>         Renewable energy system  Renewable energy news  Houston
texas 
>
>
> -------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------
>   YAHOO! GROUPS LINKS
>
>     a..  Visit your group "hreg" on the web.
>      
>     b..  To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
>      hreg-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
>      
>     c..  Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms
of Service.
>
>
> -------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------
>







SPONSORED LINKS
Renewable energy Renewable energy resources Renewable energy sources
Renewable energy system Renewable energy news Houston texas

YAHOO! GROUPS LINKS




Reply | Messages in this Topic (23)
#4340 From: Paul Archer <tigger@...>
Date: Mon Jun 5, 2006 4:39 pm
Subject: Re: Sunballs - local reps wanted 		geek65535
Send Email Send Email
  
I just ran across this in my personal archive of the list. I've checked the
website, and it looks like they are indeed offering systems for sale now.
In fact, they are offering 3KW systems (3KW inverter plus either 9x330w
SunCubes or 20x150w SunCubes) for AU $10,680. That's about US $8000--plus
shipping, of course.

Just out of curiosity, does anyone have a ballpark on what a traditional
(large panel) 3KW system runs?


Paul



Nov 2005, Nan Hildreth wrote:

> Compared to panels, sunballs are more efficient (33% vs 15%),  work
> better in Houston's heat, should be available in a few
> months.     Their website asks for solar dealers interested in
> selling their product.  http://www.greenandgoldenergy.com.au/
>
> I want a couple.    With federal tax credit they seem to have a
> better payback than getting a new Sears fridge.  (1.5 or 2 years).
>
>
> Nan Hildreth, Houston
> 713-842-6643   NanHildreth@...
> 713-443-3104 cell
> 3939 Luca St.
> Houston, Tx 77021
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>
>
>
>



--------------------------------------------------------------
"I'd cry/cry for the future/but I wouldn't get anything done."
----------------------Hunters + Collectors--------------------

Reply | Messages in this Topic (19)
#4341 From: Steven Shepard <sbtdesigns@...>
Date: Mon Jun 5, 2006 4:47 pm
Subject: Re: Re: Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth 		sbtdesigns
Send Email Send Email
 
I think a better question for us to ask is why do these corporations purchase and install renewable energy in other locations but not in Texas? 
 
The short answer is because utility prices are still relatively low here in Texas and not as high as they are in California and other states.  This is especially true where the taxpayer subsidizes the cost of electricity for municipally owned utilities and rural co-ops.  This subsidy artificially keeps the price of electricity low for large commercial consumers. 
 
The irony is that if a poor electric consumer and taxpayer cannot pay their bill these subsidized utilities will not hesitate to disconnect the user's power.  However, if and when large commercial consumers are late with their payments the utilities will bend over backwards to accomodate them. 



 
-----Original Message-----
From: Edward Kramer
Sent: Jun 5, 2006 11:25 AM
To: hreg@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [hreg] Re: Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth

Will, 
 
   Why does the city of Austin have a rebate plan, allocated from the tax revenues it receives from electric bills to promote the installation of PV systems.?  why dioes Walgreen does install 122 of their stores in California with PV systems. Why does Whole Foods Markets, based out of Austin , with four stores in Houston install PV systems in their California stores and "green" it up on their web site.Could it be they are good stewards of the environment, or that they are taking advantage of Federal and local financial (rebate) incentives to add solar. What incentive plan does the city of Houston have? One nice thing about this forum is that we exchange ideas and might come to some important dialogue.  Just briefing thru your add on I see a lot of wind farms. They are nice, but where are they located? West Texas is nie for wind farms, but that is a long way from my home.
----- Original Message -----
Sent: Monday, June 05, 2006 8:00 AM
Subject: Re: [hreg] Re: Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth

Edward

I'll try to say this politely - please step off the soapbox. You have repeatedly made unsubstantiated statements on the HREG listserv, much to the chagrin of its members.   You should know what you're talking about before making declarations.  If you research what you wish to discuss before you enter the "soapbox zone", you will understand the issue.  You will also have factual, actual, information to substantiate your argument, and a solid platform to stand on. Please employ more facts and less conjecture and hyperbole in your entries.

One example - you said "The city of Houston has not not taken heed to this warning. they are by far the largest user of electricity, yet have not one action plan to make changes."   Where did you get this information from Edward? An update to your statement in the p.s. will bring you current on this "declaration."

I wish you all the best in expressing yourself as factually as you do actually.  You will find greater support for your ideas if they are defend-able.  Good luck.

Will

p.s.  here is some information on Houston's Alternative Energy initiatives that will update your last statement. You will learn there are "more than a few" Alt-Energy initiatives in Houston, contrary to your previous statements.   That is, if you have a real interest in Renewable Energy and Alt-Energy projects. Otherwise, you wouldn't be here, right?

========================================

Alternative Energy Industry Guide to Houston
http://www.houston.org/industryGuide/alternativeEnergy.asp

As the Energy Capital of the World, Houston uses its spirit of innovation and collaboration to forge new ground across all aspects of the energy sector.

Extensive research and development is underway on developing energy sources that are not based on the burning of fossil fuels or the splitting of atoms. These include geothermal, wind, tide, solar, ground source heat pumps, biofuels hydroelectric and hydrogen fuel cells. The Greater Houston Partnership is working with area organizations to develop and demonstrate advanced hydrogen and fuel cell technologies that will reduce our nation's dependency on oil, improve air quality and maintain the region's economic competitiveness.

Houston has the tools and infrastructure in place to capitalize on this emerging sector of the energy industry.

Industry Facts:

  • Texas is one of the top three states in the country in wind power potential
  • In 2003, Texas installed more wind power than the entire United States had in any other year
  • Many of Houston's school crossing lights are powered by solar energy

Green Mountain Energy Case Study

Green Mountain Energy is one of 11 electric retailers from whom Houstonians can purchase their electric power. Much of Green Mountain Energy's source for electricity is wind power.

The Green Mountain Energy Wind Farm in Borden and Scurry counties in West Texas produces enough electricity to power 30,000 homes.

Alternative Energy Downloadable Fact Sheet

Who's Who in Houston Alternative Enery:

Alternative Energy Resources:

  • Business Development Division of the Greater Houston Partnership
  • Houston Advanced Research Center
  • Houston Energy Collaborative
  • Houston Technology Center

Energy Events in Houston

Energy events bring together top talent, innovation and information.

  • Energy events in Houston include: the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) and the Energy Venture Forum. Held annually in Houston, OTC is the energy industry's premier conference and exhibition focused on deepwater offshore technology. The 51,320 participants from 110 nations in 2005 represented OTC's highest attendance since 1985. The exhibition included 2,087 exhibiting companies, totaling more than 410,000 net square feet, filling all available indoor and outdoor space.
  • The Energy Venture Forum at Houston's Rice University introduces the most promising early-stage energy-related technology companies to leading venture capitalists. Participants hear about cutting-edge research and learn about emerging technology developments in traditional and alternative energy. Approximately 450 attendees participated in 2004.

Energy Resources in Houston

Where to go and what to do if you're thinking of starting, moving or expanding your business in Houston.

Some fuel for thought: From oil and gas to chemical development and production, the 10-county Houston region is the center of all things energy. The region offers a solid energy and chemical foundation and a workforce skilled in meeting the sector's needs. The region's large concentration of oil expertise and experience is a magnet attracting more oil expertise and experience to the area.

The Greater Houston Partnership has a unique place among business organizations. It combines opportunities for economic development, international business and public policy development. As the Houston region's primary business advocate, the Partnership helps keep businesses connected and works in their interests.

Energy Facts

  • Forty-eight percent of the region's economic base employment is related to energy.
  • Houston is headquarters for 17 energy-related Fortune 500 companies.
  • Houston is home to the cutting-edge Offshore Technology Conference (OTC).
  • Houston houses more than 3,600 energy-related establishments.
  • Houston is home to 13 of the nation's 20 largest natural gas transmission companies.
  • Houston has nearly 600 exploration and production firms.
  • Houston has more than 170 pipeline operators.
  • Hundreds of manufacturers of energy-sector products call Houston home.

In recent years, industry giants such as CITGO and Noble and smaller energy-related companies including Johnson Engineering and Hydralift, Inc. have relocated to Houston. Another 192 energy businesses have found Houston fertile ground for growth. In every case, expansions and relocations equal jobs for the Houston region.

Houston Entrepreneurial Enterprises Facts:

  • The Houston region is home to more than 85,000 small businesses
  • Houston's dynamic economy, well-developed information technology sector, talented workforce, business-friendly environment, low costs of living and ease of doing business make it a natural magnet for entrepreneurs.
  • Houston ranked #2 on the Milken Institute's 2003 Best-Performing Cities Index
  • Site Selection magazine ranked the Houston-Baytown-Sugar Land metro area in the top 10 of Metro Areas for Investment in its March, 2004 issue
  • Houston has the lowest cost of living among the country's 24 largest metropolitan areas, according to the ACCRA Cost of Living Index for the first quarter of 2005
  • With no state personal income or state property taxes, Houston has one of the lowest per-family tax burdens of any major U.S. city

Enterpreneurial Enterprises Resources:

  • The Greater Houston Partnership Emerging Business Council
  • The Greater Houston Partnership Business Development Division
  • Texas Economic Development Web site
  • Small Business Administration
  • University of Houston Small Business Development Center

Enterpreneurial Enterprises Events:

The Greater Houston Partnership Super Summit, held yearly, helps emerging businesses learn to better partner with established corporations


============================================

Oil Companies, Experts Discuss Alternative Energy Development
http://www.voanews.com/english/archive/2006-02/2006-02-07-voa1.cfm?CFID=14451546&CFTOKEN=59544590
By Greg Flakus Houston 07 February 2006


Around 1,800 oil and gas company executives, government energy ministers and other players in the world energy sector have gathered in Houston for a special emphasis on developing new sources of energy.

The theme for this year's conference is "The New Prize: Energy's Next Era," and that encompasses everything from extraction of oil from Canada's extensive tar sands to development of solar power and ethanol.

CERA Senior Advisor James Rosenfield is one of the three men who founded the conference in 1983. He tells VOA that many of the big oil companies represented here are already investing a lot of money in alternative energy programs.

"A lot of the new economy of energy is going to be driven by the international oil companies such as Shell, BP and Exxon, who are really investing billions and billions of dollars in R and D (Research and Development) for new sources of supply, solar alternatives, fuel cells, distributed generation, really across the spectrum," Rosenfield said. "In the case of BP, their focus has been on electric power, actually, using a lot of their technology to look at alternative and renewable sources of electric power generation."

Rosenfield says using CERAWeek to focus on such issues as alternative energy, non-conventional oil sources and conservation could have important consequences worldwide because participants represent every aspect of the international energy business.

"We will have exploration and production companies, national oil companies, integrated oil companies, but also utilities, energy end users, consumers such as Dow and Boeing and some of the automotive companies as well and then the financial institutions that provide the capital, in many cases, for the industry," he said.

Included in the mix of participants are representatives from several member nations of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries, known as OPEC. One of the chief speakers at the opening ceremony Tuesday will be Saudi Arabia's Oil Minister, Ali Naimi.

OPEC leaders have at times expressed concern over US and European efforts to develop alternative energy because it could divert investment from development of conventional energy sources. In an appearance here in Houston last year, the head of the Saudi oil company, Aramco, said his nation's vast oil reserves represent a reliable supply of energy that alternative energy programs are not likely to equal any time soon.

But Rosenfield says he does not believe the Saudis are against development of other energy sources.

"I think that the Saudis actually take a view that we are in this together, that we need to build the world's oil and energy supply, to build a stable and diversified supply base," he added. "We will hear from Mr. Naimi and what he has to say, but, while they are committed to an oil and hydrocarbon economy, they also recognize that over multi-decades we are going to be looking towards a lot of different sources of supply as well."

In his state of the union address last week, President Bush called for programs that would lessen U.S. dependence on foreign sources of oil and gave special emphasis to the development of biofuels like ethanol. Brazil, which has a successful ethanol program based on fuel from sugar cane, is also represented at CERAWeek and Rosenfield says he expects a lot of discussion among participants about such programs.

=====================================



On 6/5/06, Edward Kramer <onekindr@...> wrote:
Maybe what I meant to say is carbon is in your every day life -from the tires on the car (are they rubber): or the PC housing, to the packageing of your groceries etc. That is our foundation of consumer products. Does a barrel of oil go for 100 % usage of  gasoline and petrol products? Next time you eat a chocolate bar, think of what is in that chocolate bar. The real treasure thats in  oil is the refined black carbon, the building block of a plastics. Plastics equate to consumption which equals growth. The delimea we face is how to conserve. If you watch PBS, even Chevron advertises that half the worlds energy supply is used up, the problem is how to effectively use the rest. For sure, it is going to be more expensive, and hence under a capitilistic system, the growth of other competing dollar entities are going to shrink. That is not a good thing at all. The city of Houston has not not taken heed to this warning. they are by far the largest user of electricity, yet have not one action plan to make changes. I heard they found some federal money and invested in a wind farm at King Ranch. Maybe they can open an annex buiding next door.
----- Original Message -----
From: pencil1959
Sent: Sunday, June 04, 2006 11:37 PM
Subject: [hreg] Re: Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth

Maybe I'm misunderstanding your comments, but please note that: 
(1) "black carbon" is not the basic building block of life; (2)
carbon is an element that is indeed the building block of life; (3)
carbon in various molecular forms is "burned" by animals every day
to form CO2; (4) CO2 is "recycled" by plants that convert it into
sugars, cellulose, etc. that are then used by animals via #2, as
well as used for building houses, burning to heat them, etc.; marine
invertebrates fix a lot of CO2 by incorporation into carbonates,
which we humans also use in various ways; (5) I haven't read any
serious scientists proposing that we will exhaust the world's carbon
supply by burning it up; (6) none of this is to dispute that CO2
levels are at record highs, but simply to remind HREG readers that
the chemistry of the carbon cycle is complex and varied because it
IS the foundation of life--let's try to keep the basic facts
straight.

Robert Johnston


--- In hreg@yahoogroups.com, "Edward Kramer" <onekindr@...> wrote:
>
> A geophysicist will argue that we are in a natural warming caused
by changing sea levels, shift in plates and natural changes in the
jet stream. Global warming might be a small cause of the natural
warming trend, and the earth atmosphee can handle any Co2 gases that
we humans combust. Electricity is suppose to make our life better,
and if we do not find a sustainable source of electricity, life for
our children and theirs will revert to prehistoric times. We are
here for a very short time, we should only borrow from mother
nature, not take. If we deplete the carbon resources,
> what is the next generation going to do for the very basic
building life of all matter-black carbon. Rather than utilizing the
carbon for the solid production of physical goods, we are burning it
up in combustion for electricity. Once its gone, its gone. If we do
not wake up and make some serious changes in our lifestyles, how we
use the exiting resources, the future does not look so bright the
children.
>   ----- Original Message -----
>   From: Sarah Carriger
>   To: hreg@yahoogroups.com
>   Sent: Sunday, June 04, 2006 6:53 PM
>   Subject: Re: [hreg] Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth
>
>
>   I do not understand the comment of where the children are going
to play.  Same place they played before the turn of the 20th
century - before oil production became a big business - outside.  If
fossil fuel is causing global warming, then isn't this a good thing
that we run out of fossil fuels???  This planet and her inhabitants
survived just fine without oil and we can do it again.  It appears
that only when the supply is indeed limited will there be any
advances in alternative energy production, because at that point
there will be no choice.
>
>
>   Edward Kramer wrote:
>     Thanks for the invite, but I would rather conserve my fuel, as
the round trip from my house is costly and I will do my part to help
the future. Remeber, there is only 70-80 year supply of fossil fuel
in the world. Where are the chiildren going to play?
>
>
>
>   SPONSORED LINKS Renewable energy  Renewable energy resources 
Renewable energy sources 
>         Renewable energy system  Renewable energy news  Houston
texas 
>
>
> -------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------
>   YAHOO! GROUPS LINKS
>
>     a..  Visit your group "hreg" on the web.
>      
>     b..  To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
>      hreg-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
>      
>     c..  Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms
of Service.
>
>
> -------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------
>







SPONSORED LINKS
Renewable energy Renewable energy resources Renewable energy sources
Renewable energy system Renewable energy news Houston texas

YAHOO! GROUPS LINKS





SPONSORED LINKS
Renewable energy Renewable energy resources Renewable energy sources
Renewable energy system Renewable energy news Houston texas

YAHOO! GROUPS LINKS 



SBT Designs
25581 IH-10 West
San Antonio, Texas 78257
(210) 698-7109
www.sbtdesigns.com

Reply | Messages in this Topic (23)
#4342 From: Steven Shepard <sbtdesigns@...>
Date: Mon Jun 5, 2006 4:52 pm
Subject: Re: Sunballs - local reps wanted 		sbtdesigns
Send Email Send Email
  
We offer a 3500Watt for $27,500.00.



-----Original Message-----
>From: Paul Archer <tigger@...>
>Sent: Jun 5, 2006 11:39 AM
>To: hreg@yahoogroups.com
>Cc: Cindy Yepez <cindy.yepez@...>
>Subject: Re: [hreg] Sunballs - local reps wanted
>
>I just ran across this in my personal archive of the list. I've checked the
>website, and it looks like they are indeed offering systems for sale now.
>In fact, they are offering 3KW systems (3KW inverter plus either 9x330w
>SunCubes or 20x150w SunCubes) for AU $10,680. That's about US $8000--plus
>shipping, of course.
>
>Just out of curiosity, does anyone have a ballpark on what a traditional
>(large panel) 3KW system runs?
>
>
>Paul
>
>
>
>Nov 2005, Nan Hildreth wrote:
>
>> Compared to panels, sunballs are more efficient (33% vs 15%),  work
>> better in Houston's heat, should be available in a few
>> months.     Their website asks for solar dealers interested in
>> selling their product.  http://www.greenandgoldenergy.com.au/
>>
>> I want a couple.    With federal tax credit they seem to have a
>> better payback than getting a new Sears fridge.  (1.5 or 2 years).
>>
>>
>> Nan Hildreth, Houston
>> 713-842-6643   NanHildreth@...
>> 713-443-3104 cell
>> 3939 Luca St.
>> Houston, Tx 77021
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> Yahoo! Groups Links
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>
>
>
>--------------------------------------------------------------
>"I'd cry/cry for the future/but I wouldn't get anything done."
>----------------------Hunters + Collectors--------------------
>
>
>
>
>Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>
>
>
>


SBT Designs
25581 IH-10 West
San Antonio, Texas 78257
(210) 698-7109
www.sbtdesigns.com

Reply | Messages in this Topic (19)
#4343 From: Paul Archer <tigger@...>
Date: Mon Jun 5, 2006 4:58 pm
Subject: Re: Sunballs - local reps wanted 		geek65535
Send Email Send Email
  
I almost forgot: does anyone have information (perhaps a link to a website)
on payback information for PV in Houston? I just need something that links
electricity prices, inverter efficiencies (etc) and average sunshine figures
so I can get an idea how long the payback would be on one of these systems.

Paul


11:39am, Paul Archer wrote:

> I just ran across this in my personal archive of the list. I've checked the
> website, and it looks like they are indeed offering systems for sale now.
> In fact, they are offering 3KW systems (3KW inverter plus either 9x330w
> SunCubes or 20x150w SunCubes) for AU $10,680. That's about US $8000--plus
> shipping, of course.
>
> Just out of curiosity, does anyone have a ballpark on what a traditional
> (large panel) 3KW system runs?
>
>
> Paul
>
>
>
> Nov 2005, Nan Hildreth wrote:
>
>> Compared to panels, sunballs are more efficient (33% vs 15%),  work
>> better in Houston's heat, should be available in a few
>> months.     Their website asks for solar dealers interested in
>> selling their product.  http://www.greenandgoldenergy.com.au/
>>
>> I want a couple.    With federal tax credit they seem to have a
>> better payback than getting a new Sears fridge.  (1.5 or 2 years).
>>
>>
>> Nan Hildreth, Houston
>> 713-842-6643   NanHildreth@...
>> 713-443-3104 cell
>> 3939 Luca St.
>> Houston, Tx 77021
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> Yahoo! Groups Links
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>
>
>
> --------------------------------------------------------------
> "I'd cry/cry for the future/but I wouldn't get anything done."
> ----------------------Hunters + Collectors--------------------
>
>
>
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>
>
>
>



-------------------------------------------
I judge a religion as being good or bad
based on whether its adherents become
better people as a result of practicing it.
- Joe Mullally, computer salesman
-------------------------------------------

Reply | Messages in this Topic (19)
#4344 From: "Edward Kramer" <onekindr@...>
Date: Mon Jun 5, 2006 5:02 pm
Subject: Re: Re: Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth 		onekindrtx
Send Email Send Email
 
I would disagree with you, an installed 50 k system after rebates and incentives produces electricity for roughly 6-7 cents a killowatt for a minimum of 25 years-really forever. I would say that is a good business investment. When you have a "free" power source such as the sun, no moving parts to wear out (no maintenace costs), I would call that a win -win-win and oh yes, not a single ounce of greenhouse gas emmision. Subsidies, why does oil and gas, coal and rail pay no taxes!
----- Original Message -----
Sent: Monday, June 05, 2006 11:47 AM
Subject: Re: [hreg] Re: Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth

I think a better question for us to ask is why do these corporations purchase and install renewable energy in other locations but not in Texas? 
 
The short answer is because utility prices are still relatively low here in Texas and not as high as they are in California and other states.  This is especially true where the taxpayer subsidizes the cost of electricity for municipally owned utilities and rural co-ops.  This subsidy artificially keeps the price of electricity low for large commercial consumers. 
 
The irony is that if a poor electric consumer and taxpayer cannot pay their bill these subsidized utilities will not hesitate to disconnect the user's power.  However, if and when large commercial consumers are late with their payments the utilities will bend over backwards to accomodate them. 



 
-----Original Message-----
From: Edward Kramer
Sent: Jun 5, 2006 11:25 AM
To: hreg@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [hreg] Re: Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth

Will, 
 
   Why does the city of Austin have a rebate plan, allocated from the tax revenues it receives from electric bills to promote the installation of PV systems.?  why dioes Walgreen does install 122 of their stores in California with PV systems. Why does Whole Foods Markets, based out of Austin , with four stores in Houston install PV systems in their California stores and "green" it up on their web site.Could it be they are good stewards of the environment, or that they are taking advantage of Federal and local financial (rebate) incentives to add solar. What incentive plan does the city of Houston have? One nice thing about this forum is that we exchange ideas and might come to some important dialogue.  Just briefing thru your add on I see a lot of wind farms. They are nice, but where are they located? West Texas is nie for wind farms, but that is a long way from my home.
----- Original Message -----
Sent: Monday, June 05, 2006 8:00 AM
Subject: Re: [hreg] Re: Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth

Edward

I'll try to say this politely - please step off the soapbox. You have repeatedly made unsubstantiated statements on the HREG listserv, much to the chagrin of its members.   You should know what you're talking about before making declarations.  If you research what you wish to discuss before you enter the "soapbox zone", you will understand the issue.  You will also have factual, actual, information to substantiate your argument, and a solid platform to stand on. Please employ more facts and less conjecture and hyperbole in your entries.

One example - you said "The city of Houston has not not taken heed to this warning. they are by far the largest user of electricity, yet have not one action plan to make changes."   Where did you get this information from Edward? An update to your statement in the p.s. will bring you current on this "declaration."

I wish you all the best in expressing yourself as factually as you do actually.  You will find greater support for your ideas if they are defend-able.  Good luck.

Will

p.s.  here is some information on Houston's Alternative Energy initiatives that will update your last statement. You will learn there are "more than a few" Alt-Energy initiatives in Houston, contrary to your previous statements.   That is, if you have a real interest in Renewable Energy and Alt-Energy projects. Otherwise, you wouldn't be here, right?

========================================

Alternative Energy Industry Guide to Houston
http://www.houston.org/industryGuide/alternativeEnergy.asp

As the Energy Capital of the World, Houston uses its spirit of innovation and collaboration to forge new ground across all aspects of the energy sector.

Extensive research and development is underway on developing energy sources that are not based on the burning of fossil fuels or the splitting of atoms. These include geothermal, wind, tide, solar, ground source heat pumps, biofuels hydroelectric and hydrogen fuel cells. The Greater Houston Partnership is working with area organizations to develop and demonstrate advanced hydrogen and fuel cell technologies that will reduce our nation's dependency on oil, improve air quality and maintain the region's economic competitiveness.

Houston has the tools and infrastructure in place to capitalize on this emerging sector of the energy industry.

Industry Facts:

  • Texas is one of the top three states in the country in wind power potential
  • In 2003, Texas installed more wind power than the entire United States had in any other year
  • Many of Houston's school crossing lights are powered by solar energy

Green Mountain Energy Case Study

Green Mountain Energy is one of 11 electric retailers from whom Houstonians can purchase their electric power. Much of Green Mountain Energy's source for electricity is wind power.

The Green Mountain Energy Wind Farm in Borden and Scurry counties in West Texas produces enough electricity to power 30,000 homes.

Alternative Energy Downloadable Fact Sheet

Who's Who in Houston Alternative Enery:

Alternative Energy Resources:

  • Business Development Division of the Greater Houston Partnership
  • Houston Advanced Research Center
  • Houston Energy Collaborative
  • Houston Technology Center

Energy Events in Houston

Energy events bring together top talent, innovation and information.

  • Energy events in Houston include: the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) and the Energy Venture Forum. Held annually in Houston, OTC is the energy industry's premier conference and exhibition focused on deepwater offshore technology. The 51,320 participants from 110 nations in 2005 represented OTC's highest attendance since 1985. The exhibition included 2,087 exhibiting companies, totaling more than 410,000 net square feet, filling all available indoor and outdoor space.
  • The Energy Venture Forum at Houston's Rice University introduces the most promising early-stage energy-related technology companies to leading venture capitalists. Participants hear about cutting-edge research and learn about emerging technology developments in traditional and alternative energy. Approximately 450 attendees participated in 2004.

Energy Resources in Houston

Where to go and what to do if you're thinking of starting, moving or expanding your business in Houston.

Some fuel for thought: From oil and gas to chemical development and production, the 10-county Houston region is the center of all things energy. The region offers a solid energy and chemical foundation and a workforce skilled in meeting the sector's needs. The region's large concentration of oil expertise and experience is a magnet attracting more oil expertise and experience to the area.

The Greater Houston Partnership has a unique place among business organizations. It combines opportunities for economic development, international business and public policy development. As the Houston region's primary business advocate, the Partnership helps keep businesses connected and works in their interests.

Energy Facts

  • Forty-eight percent of the region's economic base employment is related to energy.
  • Houston is headquarters for 17 energy-related Fortune 500 companies.
  • Houston is home to the cutting-edge Offshore Technology Conference (OTC).
  • Houston houses more than 3,600 energy-related establishments.
  • Houston is home to 13 of the nation's 20 largest natural gas transmission companies.
  • Houston has nearly 600 exploration and production firms.
  • Houston has more than 170 pipeline operators.
  • Hundreds of manufacturers of energy-sector products call Houston home.

In recent years, industry giants such as CITGO and Noble and smaller energy-related companies including Johnson Engineering and Hydralift, Inc. have relocated to Houston. Another 192 energy businesses have found Houston fertile ground for growth. In every case, expansions and relocations equal jobs for the Houston region.

Houston Entrepreneurial Enterprises Facts:

  • The Houston region is home to more than 85,000 small businesses
  • Houston's dynamic economy, well-developed information technology sector, talented workforce, business-friendly environment, low costs of living and ease of doing business make it a natural magnet for entrepreneurs.
  • Houston ranked #2 on the Milken Institute's 2003 Best-Performing Cities Index
  • Site Selection magazine ranked the Houston-Baytown-Sugar Land metro area in the top 10 of Metro Areas for Investment in its March, 2004 issue
  • Houston has the lowest cost of living among the country's 24 largest metropolitan areas, according to the ACCRA Cost of Living Index for the first quarter of 2005
  • With no state personal income or state property taxes, Houston has one of the lowest per-family tax burdens of any major U.S. city

Enterpreneurial Enterprises Resources:

  • The Greater Houston Partnership Emerging Business Council
  • The Greater Houston Partnership Business Development Division
  • Texas Economic Development Web site
  • Small Business Administration
  • University of Houston Small Business Development Center

Enterpreneurial Enterprises Events:

The Greater Houston Partnership Super Summit, held yearly, helps emerging businesses learn to better partner with established corporations


============================================

Oil Companies, Experts Discuss Alternative Energy Development
http://www.voanews.com/english/archive/2006-02/2006-02-07-voa1.cfm?CFID=14451546&CFTOKEN=59544590
By Greg Flakus Houston 07 February 2006


Around 1,800 oil and gas company executives, government energy ministers and other players in the world energy sector have gathered in Houston for a special emphasis on developing new sources of energy.

The theme for this year's conference is "The New Prize: Energy's Next Era," and that encompasses everything from extraction of oil from Canada's extensive tar sands to development of solar power and ethanol.

CERA Senior Advisor James Rosenfield is one of the three men who founded the conference in 1983. He tells VOA that many of the big oil companies represented here are already investing a lot of money in alternative energy programs.

"A lot of the new economy of energy is going to be driven by the international oil companies such as Shell, BP and Exxon, who are really investing billions and billions of dollars in R and D (Research and Development) for new sources of supply, solar alternatives, fuel cells, distributed generation, really across the spectrum," Rosenfield said. "In the case of BP, their focus has been on electric power, actually, using a lot of their technology to look at alternative and renewable sources of electric power generation."

Rosenfield says using CERAWeek to focus on such issues as alternative energy, non-conventional oil sources and conservation could have important consequences worldwide because participants represent every aspect of the international energy business.

"We will have exploration and production companies, national oil companies, integrated oil companies, but also utilities, energy end users, consumers such as Dow and Boeing and some of the automotive companies as well and then the financial institutions that provide the capital, in many cases, for the industry," he said.

Included in the mix of participants are representatives from several member nations of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries, known as OPEC. One of the chief speakers at the opening ceremony Tuesday will be Saudi Arabia's Oil Minister, Ali Naimi.

OPEC leaders have at times expressed concern over US and European efforts to develop alternative energy because it could divert investment from development of conventional energy sources. In an appearance here in Houston last year, the head of the Saudi oil company, Aramco, said his nation's vast oil reserves represent a reliable supply of energy that alternative energy programs are not likely to equal any time soon.

But Rosenfield says he does not believe the Saudis are against development of other energy sources.

"I think that the Saudis actually take a view that we are in this together, that we need to build the world's oil and energy supply, to build a stable and diversified supply base," he added. "We will hear from Mr. Naimi and what he has to say, but, while they are committed to an oil and hydrocarbon economy, they also recognize that over multi-decades we are going to be looking towards a lot of different sources of supply as well."

In his state of the union address last week, President Bush called for programs that would lessen U.S. dependence on foreign sources of oil and gave special emphasis to the development of biofuels like ethanol. Brazil, which has a successful ethanol program based on fuel from sugar cane, is also represented at CERAWeek and Rosenfield says he expects a lot of discussion among participants about such programs.

=====================================



On 6/5/06, Edward Kramer <onekindr@...> wrote:
Maybe what I meant to say is carbon is in your every day life -from the tires on the car (are they rubber): or the PC housing, to the packageing of your groceries etc. That is our foundation of consumer products. Does a barrel of oil go for 100 % usage of  gasoline and petrol products? Next time you eat a chocolate bar, think of what is in that chocolate bar. The real treasure thats in  oil is the refined black carbon, the building block of a plastics. Plastics equate to consumption which equals growth. The delimea we face is how to conserve. If you watch PBS, even Chevron advertises that half the worlds energy supply is used up, the problem is how to effectively use the rest. For sure, it is going to be more expensive, and hence under a capitilistic system, the growth of other competing dollar entities are going to shrink. That is not a good thing at all. The city of Houston has not not taken heed to this warning. they are by far the largest user of electricity, yet have not one action plan to make changes. I heard they found some federal money and invested in a wind farm at King Ranch. Maybe they can open an annex buiding next door.
----- Original Message -----
From: pencil1959
Sent: Sunday, June 04, 2006 11:37 PM
Subject: [hreg] Re: Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth

Maybe I'm misunderstanding your comments, but please note that: 
(1) "black carbon" is not the basic building block of life; (2)
carbon is an element that is indeed the building block of life; (3)
carbon in various molecular forms is "burned" by animals every day
to form CO2; (4) CO2 is "recycled" by plants that convert it into
sugars, cellulose, etc. that are then used by animals via #2, as
well as used for building houses, burning to heat them, etc.; marine
invertebrates fix a lot of CO2 by incorporation into carbonates,
which we humans also use in various ways; (5) I haven't read any
serious scientists proposing that we will exhaust the world's carbon
supply by burning it up; (6) none of this is to dispute that CO2
levels are at record highs, but simply to remind HREG readers that
the chemistry of the carbon cycle is complex and varied because it
IS the foundation of life--let's try to keep the basic facts
straight.

Robert Johnston


--- In hreg@yahoogroups.com, "Edward Kramer" <onekindr@...> wrote:
>
> A geophysicist will argue that we are in a natural warming caused
by changing sea levels, shift in plates and natural changes in the
jet stream. Global warming might be a small cause of the natural
warming trend, and the earth atmosphee can handle any Co2 gases that
we humans combust. Electricity is suppose to make our life better,
and if we do not find a sustainable source of electricity, life for
our children and theirs will revert to prehistoric times. We are
here for a very short time, we should only borrow from mother
nature, not take. If we deplete the carbon resources,
> what is the next generation going to do for the very basic
building life of all matter-black carbon. Rather than utilizing the
carbon for the solid production of physical goods, we are burning it
up in combustion for electricity. Once its gone, its gone. If we do
not wake up and make some serious changes in our lifestyles, how we
use the exiting resources, the future does not look so bright the
children.
>   ----- Original Message -----
>   From: Sarah Carriger
>   To: hreg@yahoogroups.com
>   Sent: Sunday, June 04, 2006 6:53 PM
>   Subject: Re: [hreg] Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth
>
>
>   I do not understand the comment of where the children are going
to play.  Same place they played before the turn of the 20th
century - before oil production became a big business - outside.  If
fossil fuel is causing global warming, then isn't this a good thing
that we run out of fossil fuels???  This planet and her inhabitants
survived just fine without oil and we can do it again.  It appears
that only when the supply is indeed limited will there be any
advances in alternative energy production, because at that point
there will be no choice.
>
>
>   Edward Kramer wrote:
>     Thanks for the invite, but I would rather conserve my fuel, as
the round trip from my house is costly and I will do my part to help
the future. Remeber, there is only 70-80 year supply of fossil fuel
in the world. Where are the chiildren going to play?
>
>
>
>   SPONSORED LINKS Renewable energy  Renewable energy resources 
Renewable energy sources 
>         Renewable energy system  Renewable energy news  Houston
texas 
>
>
> -------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------
>   YAHOO! GROUPS LINKS
>
>     a..  Visit your group "hreg" on the web.
>      
>     b..  To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
>      hreg-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
>      
>     c..  Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms
of Service.
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-----------
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SPONSORED LINKS
Renewable energy Renewable energy resources Renewable energy sources
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SPONSORED LINKS
Renewable energy Renewable energy resources Renewable energy sources
Renewable energy system Renewable energy news Houston texas

YAHOO! GROUPS LINKS 



SBT Designs
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(210) 698-7109
www.sbtdesigns.com

Reply | Messages in this Topic (23)
#4345 From: "Edward Kramer" <onekindr@...>
Date: Mon Jun 5, 2006 5:15 pm
Subject: Re: Sunballs - local reps wanted 		onekindrtx
Send Email Send Email
 
Paul,
 
  The solar calculator says our average production rate is 4.898 hours a day. Be aware of the Federal income tax credit, 30% residential (2000.00) ceiling and unlimited for commercial. If you lived in Austin, you could get a rebate of 4.00 a watt!
----- Original Message -----
Sent: Monday, June 05, 2006 11:58 AM
Subject: Re: [hreg] Sunballs - local reps wanted

I almost forgot: does anyone have information (perhaps a link to a website)
on payback information for PV in Houston? I just need something that links
electricity prices, inverter efficiencies (etc) and average sunshine figures
so I can get an idea how long the payback would be on one of these systems.

Paul


11:39am, Paul Archer wrote:

> I just ran across this in my personal archive of the list. I've checked the
> website, and it looks like they are indeed offering systems for sale now.
> In fact, they are offering 3KW systems (3KW inverter plus either 9x330w
> SunCubes or 20x150w SunCubes) for AU $10,680. That's about US $8000--plus
> shipping, of course.
>
> Just out of curiosity, does anyone have a ballpark on what a traditional
> (large panel) 3KW system runs?
>
>
> Paul
>
>
>
> Nov 2005, Nan Hildreth wrote:
>
>> Compared to panels, sunballs are more efficient (33% vs 15%),  work
>> better in Houston's heat, should be available in a few
>> months.     Their website asks for solar dealers interested in
>> selling their product.  http://www.greenandgoldenergy.com.au/
>>
>> I want a couple.    With federal tax credit they seem to have a
>> better payback than getting a new Sears fridge.  (1.5 or 2 years).
>>
>>
>> Nan Hildreth, Houston
>> 713-842-6643   NanHildreth@...
>> 713-443-3104 cell
>> 3939 Luca St.
>> Houston, Tx 77021
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> Yahoo! Groups Links
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>
>
>
> --------------------------------------------------------------
> "I'd cry/cry for the future/but I wouldn't get anything done."
> ----------------------Hunters + Collectors--------------------
>
>
>
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>
>
>
>



-------------------------------------------
I judge a religion as being good or bad
based on whether its adherents become
better people as a result of practicing it.
- Joe Mullally, computer salesman
-------------------------------------------


Reply | Messages in this Topic (19)
#4346 From: "will thurmond" <willthurmond@...>
Date: Mon Jun 5, 2006 5:03 pm
Subject: Re: Re: Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth 		willthurmond...
Send Email Send Email
 
Paul,

Thanks for your reply on this one.  Here is some more information on what the city is doing.  It isn't "nothing", and it's hardly what it could be.  But, given the fact that a large portion of the city's income is from petroleum producing companies, and given that the key lobbyists in local/state government favor petroleum companies, "anything" is a good thing. Houston could do much, much more!! 

It does leave a bit of a quandry for the local tax-hungry government to ask people to conserve energy.  Lets assume, for a moment, that the city of Houston makes $1 billion dollars a year in tax revenue off $12 billion dollars a year in gasoline sales. If you ask consumers of gasoline to reduce their consumption, the city makes less money.  The same thing goes for electricity.   For every residential consjumer that pays an average of say $150 a month in electricity, if they reduce their electric power bills by $50 a month, then the city makes less money in tax revenues.   What is the incentive for the city to discourage energy consumption (and lower tax revenues) unless it is a catastrophic problem ( i.e. no supply)?  There would need to be a "tipping point" in voter behavior where 50+ % or more of voters insist the government institute alternative energy policies in order for the elected leaders (and tax hungry politicians) to budge. Even then, legislation would face tough, embedded, local energy lobbies.  The good news is, over time, this "tipping point" will occur and politicians will have to eventually institute alternative energy policies and programs to keep their voters and constituencies happy.   This momentum is already underway.  There is evidence of change - but it's happening slowly.   The rate of change in consumer/voter behavior towards majority opinions, and towards public action, is expected to accelerate as we run out of oil, as oil gets more expensive, and as consumers get pissed at the pump and with home electric bills.

This happened in California six years ago after the big energy crisis.    Californians have found a way to grow their population and, at the same time, use less electricity per capita vs. the U.S.' growing per capita energy needs!  See the end of this message for an article on this.  Contributing factors to the reduction of electric power consumption per consumer include: the  installation of flourescent light bulbs, greater use of alternative energy by power generation utilities, rebates to consumers who install more energy-efficient air conditioners, refrigerators, and heating system,. and some other home insulation ideas many have discussed here that can be applied to Houston's residential and commercial properties.  California's measures are a tough act to follow in oil-friendly Texas. 

Like Charlie Mauch said, Houston has a ways to go and lots of measures it could implement and mandate as  policy and in cooperation with utilities to do better (as California has been doing).  Hopefully we'll get there sooner than later.

Will

==========================================
Here is the 411 on Alternative Energy Initiatives in Houston Area:

Hybrid Technology  - Mayor Bill White announced in April 2005 plans to convert a substantial portion of the City's fleet of cars, pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles to hybrids by the year 2010. The City fleet comprises more than 11,000 vehicles of which 3,554 are the civilian, light-duty, "non-specialty" fleet.  As of April, the City fleet included 130 hybrids with 76 Toyota Prius and 7 For Escape hybrids on order.
Ethanol

Ethanol  -  Houston's first ethanol (E85) fuel dispensing facility opened in October 2004 at NASA's Johnson Space Center. JSC is the second federal fleet in Texas to use E85, the first being a Department of Energy facility in Amarillo. Installation of the 1,000gallon, on-site, fuel-dispensing unit brings JSC into compliance with the Energy Policy Act of 1992 (EPAct) and Presidential Executive Order 13149. EPAct requires the acquisition of alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs) for federal fleets and Executive Order 13149 requires that federal fleets reduce their petroleum use 20 percent by 2005. AFVs are designed to run on any ethanol fuel blend up to 85 percent ethanol. JSC is now the fifth NASA center to add ethanol fueling capability. JSC employees are now mandated to use E85 in the 25 Flexible Fuel Vehicles in the GSA fleet assigned for employee use, if their official business takes them within a 50-mile radius of JSC. E85 is U.S.-made fuel from corn or corn by-products and offers superior performance because of its high octane rating (110 compared to 89 for gasoline). E85 cannot be used in conventional gasoline vehicles. Ethanol is not available at retail fuel stations within the state of Texas. 

Wind  - Texas has leased an 11,000-acre region of the Gulf of Mexico, seven miles off Galveston Island, for gigantic wind turbines that could eventually power 40,000 homes and generate millions of dollars for state schools. The project marks a new era of pollution-free energy production for the Gulf.
Biodiesel

Biodiesel (private, not Houston government)- Houston Biodiesel educates about and promotes the use of clean, renewable, domestically produced biodiesel in all diesel engines. The company also sells high quality biodiesel that conforms to ASTM specifications and invites consumers to make their own biodiesel in their "BIG" batch reactor.   TexCom, Inc. is building and will operate a new 30 million gallon per year biodiesel plant at the LBC Houston LP bulk liquids terminal in Seabrook, Texas. TexCom plans to construct the multi-million dollar plant that will convert virgin soybean oil into biodiesel and utilize existing on-site storage capacity and other terminal facilities under a long-term lease from LBC. Project design includes the capability to store conventional petroleum diesel, allowing TexCom to blend and market B20 and other biodiesel blends as well as B100. Feedstock will be brought in via barge to the site, located near the Houston Ship Channel, to produce the renewable fuel.

=========================================

Energy: Wiser on the West Coast
http://www.businessweek.com/technology/content/jun2006/tc20060602_187912.htm

From "smart meters" to white roofs, California is putting its crisis behind it

It was six years ago this summer that the great California energy crisis began. The state hadn't built enough power plants to meet demand. Rogue energy traders swooped in, prices soared, and the state's largest utility went bankrupt.

The crisis branded the nation's most populated state as a energy-industry basket case. "What's the difference between California and the Titanic?" recently convicted former Enron CEO Jeffrey Skilling once joked. "The Titanic went down with the lights on."

Now, as temperatures creep up in much of the country and the peak air-conditioning season begins, it's worth noting that from an energy perspective, there's much good happening in California. More than 30 new power plants have come online in the past six years, generating 12,000 megawatts. The California Energy Commission estimates that it will have generation reserves of more than 20% this August, nearly three times what's required should power usage spike.

The better story, though, lies on the demand side of the equation, or what the state's fitness-focused governor might call portion control. Since California began aggressively pursuing energy efficiency in the mid-1970s, the state's per-capita electricity usage has remained flat at around 6,500 kilowatt-hours per person. In the rest of the country, consumption has risen from 8,000 to 12,000 kilowatt-hours in the same time frame. In terms of carbon emissions, that's the equivalent of keeping 12 million cars off the road.

UTILITIES ON BOARD.  How does California do it? Here's one way: The state requires that fluorescent bulbs be used in new construction or major remodels in many rooms of the house. Fluorescent lights are more than four times more efficient than incandescents, so if you're remodeling a kitchen, laundry, or bathroom in the Golden State, you have no choice. The standards are part of a massive set of statewide building codes called Title 24 that was passed in 1978. They get toughened every couple of years or so, and consumers get used to them. "They kind of accept it and move on," says Santa Monica architect Aleks Istanbullu.

California has also succeeded by getting utilities involved in conservation. The state's big electric distributors shell out hundreds of millions of dollars every year in rebates to consumers who install more energy-efficient air conditioners, refrigerators, and heating systems. The rebates, budgeted at $2 billion between now and 2008, are intended to save $5 billion in power purchases. "Before we invest in traditional pipes and wires, we have to implement these programs," says Anne Shen Smith, senior vice-president for customer relations at San Diego Gas & Electric. "It's the equivalent of avoiding three new power plants."

Utilities are also required to get more of their power from renewable sources, such as wind, solar, biomass, and geothermal. In 2002, California instituted one of the most extensive renewable programs in the country, requiring 20% of power from such sources by 2010, up from 10% today. The utilities are also being allowed to earn their regulated rate of return on new "smart meters" that collect customer-usage information in real time, allowing the energy providers to recommend ways for them to cut costs. "California's unique," says Greg Ander, chief architect for Southern California Edison. "Utilities have gotten very aggressive since the meltdown."

WHITE-ROOF INITIATIVE.  Politicians have gotten into the game, too. Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, who is campaigning for reelection in November, has jumped on the green bandwagon, earmarking $2.8 billion over 10 years to put small solar systems in place. His "Million Solar Roofs" program, started in January, provides cash to homeowners who choose to install such systems.

The state has other initiatives in the works. California Energy Commissioner Arthur H. Rosenfeld, who has been called the father of energy conservation in the state, says his office is now working on regulations that would require all new roofs in the state to be white, because they absorb less heat and cut air-conditioning bills. "The pharaohs and the Greeks have known this for 5,000 years," he says. Regulations presently call for flat roofs to be white. The state is working with roofing manufacturers who have created pigments that mimic the energy-saving nature of white so that the regulations can be extended to sloped roofs and tiles by 2008.

It may seem goofy, but what happens in California usually doesn't stay there. In the mid-1970s, California was a leader in pushing for more efficient appliances. Similar federal standards came into effect in 1992. The result is that even as the average size of refrigerators has increased, the power they use has fallen 75%, to roughly 400 kilowatt-hours per year. It's funny how fast things can turn around. It's not California that's sinking anymore.




On 6/5/06, Paul Archer <tigger@...> wrote:
7:00am, will thurmond wrote:

> Edward
>
> I'll try to say this politely - please step off the soapbox. You have
> repeatedly made unsubstantiated statements on the HREG listserv, much to the
> chagrin of its members.   You should know what you're talking about before
> making declarations.  If you research what you wish to discuss before you
> enter the "soapbox zone", you will understand the issue.  You will also have
> factual, actual, information to substantiate your argument, and a solid
> platform to stand on. Please employ more facts and less conjecture and
> hyperbole in your entries.
>
> One example - you said "The city of Houston has not not taken heed to this
> warning. they are by far the largest user of electricity, yet have not one
> action plan to make changes."   Where did you get this information from
> Edward? An update to your statement in the p.s. will bring you current on
> this "declaration."
>
> I wish you all the best in expressing yourself as factually as you do
> actually.  You will find greater support for your ideas if they are
> defend-able.  Good luck.
>
> Will
>
> p.s.  here is some information on Houston's Alternative Energy initiatives
> that will update your last statement. You will learn there are "more than a
> few" Alt-Energy initiatives in Houston, contrary to your previous
> statements.   That is, if you have a real interest in Renewable Energy and
> Alt-Energy projects. Otherwise, you wouldn't be here, right?
>
[massive snippage]

Will, I wholeheartedly agree with you in that *whoever* is speaking in a
forum like this should have his/her facts together first.
And I agree that Edward did not back up his claim that "[t]he City of
Houston ...have not one action plan to make changes." However, I think you
misread his statement, as the the information you included (which I've
snipped for space) did not counter that charge.
The specific claim was, I believe, that the City of Houston (that is the
munincipal government, not the inhabitants of Houston as a whole), which
most likely is the single largest consumer of electricity in the city, has
not taken action to reduce its energy usage. Your included information did
mention solar-powered school "crossing" lights (although I think it meant
school zone lights). I've seen these and similar lights all over the
country. They do save electricity, but considering how much light they put
out (a blink or two a second for two hours a day 5 days a week, 9 months a
year), I would guess that the primary motivation for them is to save
installation costs rather than power.

Anyway, the point I'm trying to make is just that I think Edward does bring
up a good point: I don't know *what* the City of Houston is up to as far as
energy consumption and conservation, but I'd like to find out.


Paul



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Reply | Messages in this Topic (23)
#4347 From: "Andrew McCalla" <andrew@...>
Date: Mon Jun 5, 2006 5:49 pm
Subject: RE: Sunballs - local reps wanted 		andrew@...
Send Email Send Email
  
Paul,

I couldn't tell from their website, but do they have a product yet?

If so, could you link me directly to documentation on it?  All I could find
in my preliminary perusal was some sketches and models.

Andrew H. McCalla
NABCEP Certified Solar PV System Installer (TM)

Meridian Energy Systems
2300 S. Lamar, Ste. 107
Austin, TX  78704

Voice: (512) 448-0055
Fax:    (512) 448-0045
www.meridiansolar.com




-----Original Message-----
From: hreg@yahoogroups.com [mailto:hreg@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Paul
Archer
Sent: Monday, June 05, 2006 11:40 AM
To: hreg@yahoogroups.com
Cc: Cindy Yepez
Subject: Re: [hreg] Sunballs - local reps wanted

I just ran across this in my personal archive of the list. I've checked the
website, and it looks like they are indeed offering systems for sale now.
In fact, they are offering 3KW systems (3KW inverter plus either 9x330w
SunCubes or 20x150w SunCubes) for AU $10,680. That's about US $8000--plus
shipping, of course.

Just out of curiosity, does anyone have a ballpark on what a traditional
(large panel) 3KW system runs?


Paul



Nov 2005, Nan Hildreth wrote:

> Compared to panels, sunballs are more efficient (33% vs 15%),  work
> better in Houston's heat, should be available in a few
> months.     Their website asks for solar dealers interested in
> selling their product.  http://www.greenandgoldenergy.com.au/
>
> I want a couple.    With federal tax credit they seem to have a
> better payback than getting a new Sears fridge.  (1.5 or 2 years).
>
>
> Nan Hildreth, Houston
> 713-842-6643   NanHildreth@...
> 713-443-3104 cell
> 3939 Luca St.
> Houston, Tx 77021
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>
>
>
>



--------------------------------------------------------------
"I'd cry/cry for the future/but I wouldn't get anything done."
----------------------Hunters + Collectors--------------------




Yahoo! Groups Links

Reply | Messages in this Topic (19)
#4348 From: "J. P. Malone" <JPMALONE@...>
Date: Mon Jun 5, 2006 6:05 pm
Subject: RE: China solar hot water 		jpmalone42
Send Email Send Email
  
Paul,
Thanks.

J. Patrick Malone


-----Original Message-----
From: hreg@yahoogroups.com [mailto:hreg@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Paul
Archer
Sent: Monday, June 05, 2006 8:09 AM
To: hreg@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [hreg] China solar hot water

Just FYI: If you have a really long URL like this, go to www.tinyurl.com and

compact it:

http://tinyurl.com/kn48n
It's a lot easier to post. (And that is the same link as below, BTW).

Paul



8:04am, J. P. Malone wrote:

> I have provide a link to a lengthy article below on how China is using
solar
> hot water heaters.  I would guess the US does not have 30 households using
> solar hot water.
>
> HYPERLINK
>
"http://today.reuters.com/business/newsArticle.aspx?type=ousiv&storyid=2006-
>
06-04T012846Z_01_PEK298574_RTRIDST_0_BUSINESSPRO-ENERGY-CHINA-SOLAR-DC.XML&W
>
TmodLoc=InvArt-R3-MostViewedBiz-1"http://today.reuters.com/business/newsArti
>
cle.aspx?type=ousiv&storyid=2006-06-04T012846Z_01_PEK298574_RTRIDST_0_BUSINE
> SSPRO-ENERGY-CHINA-SOLAR-DC.XML&WTmodLoc=InvArt-R3-MostViewedBiz-1
>
>
> …company has earned a fortune manufacturing solar heaters, relatively
> low-tech rooftop devices which capture the sun's energy to provide water
for
> baths and washing and are at the forefront of a renewable energy drive.
> At least 30 million Chinese households now have one and last year the
> country accounted for around 80 percent of the world market, said Eric
> Martinot, visiting scholar at Beijing's Tsinghua University. "We are at 15
> to 20 percent annual growth and I don't see that slowing down." …
> See link for full article.
>
>
> J. Patrick Malone
>
>
> --
> No virus found in this outgoing message.
> Checked by AVG Free Edition.
> Version: 7.1.394 / Virus Database: 268.8.1/355 - Release Date: 6/2/2006
>
>



----------------------------------------------------------
"Fun's over fellows. If you're going to beat up my friends
in my bar, there's a two-drink minimum." -- Moe --
----------------------------------------------------------



Yahoo! Groups Links





--
No virus found in this incoming message.
Checked by AVG Free Edition.
Version: 7.1.394 / Virus Database: 268.8.1/355 - Release Date: 6/2/2006


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Reply | Messages in this Topic (3)
#4349 From: "Kevin L. Conlin" <kconlin@...>
Date: Mon Jun 5, 2006 6:22 pm
Subject: RE: Re: Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth 		kconlin@...
Send Email Send Email
 

Edward,  your production cost estimate for PV seems a little low at $.06-.07 per kWh, would you mind sharing your calculations with us?

 

Thanks and regards,  Kevin

 

________________________

Kevin Conlin
Solarcraft, Inc.
13130 Stafford Road, Suite 125
Stafford, TX 77477-4536
(281)495-0438
fax (281)495-0440
kconlin@...
www.solarcraft.net

 

From: Edward Kramer [mailto:onekindr@...]
Sent: Monday, June 05, 2006 12:02 PM
To: hreg@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [hreg] Re: Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth

 

I would disagree with you, an installed 50 k system after rebates and incentives produces electricity for roughly 6-7 cents a killowatt for a minimum of 25 years-really forever. I would say that is a good business investment. When you have a "free" power source such as the sun, no moving parts to wear out (no maintenace costs), I would call that a win -win-win and oh yes, not a single ounce of greenhouse gas emmision. Subsidies, why does oil and gas, coal and rail pay no taxes!

----- Original Message -----

Sent: Monday, June 05, 2006 11:47 AM

Subject: Re: [hreg] Re: Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth

 

I think a better question for us to ask is why do these corporations purchase and install renewable energy in other locations but not in Texas? 

 

The short answer is because utility prices are still relatively low here in Texas and not as high as they are in California and other states.  This is especially true where the taxpayer subsidizes the cost of electricity for municipally owned utilities and rural co-ops.  This subsidy artificially keeps the price of electricity low for large commercial consumers. 

 

The irony is that if a poor electric consumer and taxpayer cannot pay their bill these subsidized utilities will not hesitate to disconnect the user's power.  However, if and when large commercial consumers are late with their payments the utilities will bend over backwards to accomodate them. 




 

-----Original Message-----
From: Edward Kramer
Sent: Jun 5, 2006 11:25 AM
To: hreg@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [hreg] Re: Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth


Will, 

 

   Why does the city of Austin have a rebate plan, allocated from the tax revenues it receives from electric bills to promote the installation of PV systems.?  why dioes Walgreen does install 122 of their stores in California with PV systems. Why does Whole Foods Markets, based out of Austin , with four stores in Houston install PV systems in their California stores and "green" it up on their web site.Could it be they are good stewards of the environment, or that they are taking advantage of Federal and local financial (rebate) incentives to add solar. What incentive plan does the city of Houston have? One nice thing about this forum is that we exchange ideas and might come to some important dialogue.  Just briefing thru your add on I see a lot of wind farms. They are nice, but where are they located? West Texas is nie for wind farms, but that is a long way from my home.

----- Original Message -----

Sent: Monday, June 05, 2006 8:00 AM

Subject: Re: [hreg] Re: Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth

 

Edward

I'll try to say this politely - please step off the soapbox. You have repeatedly made unsubstantiated statements on the HREG listserv, much to the chagrin of its members.   You should know what you're talking about before making declarations.  If you research what you wish to discuss before you enter the "soapbox zone", you will understand the issue.  You will also have factual, actual, information to substantiate your argument, and a solid platform to stand on. Please employ more facts and less conjecture and hyperbole in your entries.

One example - you said "The city of Houston has not not taken heed to this warning. they are by far the largest user of electricity, yet have not one action plan to make changes."   Where did you get this information from Edward? An update to your statement in the p.s. will bring you current on this "declaration."

I wish you all the best in expressing yourself as factually as you do actually.  You will find greater support for your ideas if they are defend-able.  Good luck.

Will

p.s.  here is some information on Houston's Alternative Energy initiatives that will update your last statement. You will learn there are "more than a few" Alt-Energy initiatives in Houston, contrary to your previous statements.   That is, if you have a real interest in Renewable Energy and Alt-Energy projects. Otherwise, you wouldn't be here, right?

========================================

Alternative Energy Industry Guide to Houston
http://www.houston.org/industryGuide/alternativeEnergy.asp

As the Energy Capital of the World, Houston uses its spirit of innovation and collaboration to forge new ground across all aspects of the energy sector.

Extensive research and development is underway on developing energy sources that are not based on the burning of fossil fuels or the splitting of atoms. These include geothermal, wind, tide, solar, ground source heat pumps, biofuels hydroelectric and hydrogen fuel cells. The Greater Houston Partnership is working with area organizations to develop and demonstrate advanced hydrogen and fuel cell technologies that will reduce our nation's dependency on oil, improve air quality and maintain the region's economic competitiveness.

Houston has the tools and infrastructure in place to capitalize on this emerging sector of the energy industry.

Industry Facts:

  • Texas is one of the top three states in the country in wind power potential
  • In 2003, Texas installed more wind power than the entire United States had in any other year
  • Many of Houston's school crossing lights are powered by solar energy

Green Mountain Energy Case Study

Green Mountain Energy is one of 11 electric retailers from whom Houstonians can purchase their electric power. Much of Green Mountain Energy's source for electricity is wind power.

The Green Mountain Energy Wind Farm in Borden and Scurry counties in West Texas produces enough electricity to power 30,000 homes.

Alternative Energy Downloadable Fact Sheet

Who's Who in Houston Alternative Enery:

Alternative Energy Resources:

  • Business Development Division of the Greater Houston Partnership
  • Houston Advanced Research Center
  • Houston Energy Collaborative
  • Houston Technology Center

Energy Events in Houston

Energy events bring together top talent, innovation and information.

  • Energy events in Houston include: the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) and the Energy Venture Forum. Held annually in Houston, OTC is the energy industry's premier conference and exhibition focused on deepwater offshore technology. The 51,320 participants from 110 nations in 2005 represented OTC's highest attendance since 1985. The exhibition included 2,087 exhibiting companies, totaling more than 410,000 net square feet, filling all available indoor and outdoor space.
  • The Energy Venture Forum at Houston's Rice University introduces the most promising early-stage energy-related technology companies to leading venture capitalists. Participants hear about cutting-edge research and learn about emerging technology developments in traditional and alternative energy. Approximately 450 attendees participated in 2004.

Energy Resources in Houston

Where to go and what to do if you're thinking of starting, moving or expanding your business in Houston.

Some fuel for thought: From oil and gas to chemical development and production, the 10-county Houston region is the center of all things energy. The region offers a solid energy and chemical foundation and a workforce skilled in meeting the sector's needs. The region's large concentration of oil expertise and experience is a magnet attracting more oil expertise and experience to the area.

The Greater Houston Partnership has a unique place among business organizations. It combines opportunities for economic development, international business and public policy development. As the Houston region's primary business advocate, the Partnership helps keep businesses connected and works in their interests.

Energy Facts

  • Forty-eight percent of the region's economic base employment is related to energy.
  • Houston is headquarters for 17 energy-related Fortune 500 companies.
  • Houston is home to the cutting-edge Offshore Technology Conference (OTC).
  • Houston houses more than 3,600 energy-related establishments.
  • Houston is home to 13 of the nation's 20 largest natural gas transmission companies.
  • Houston has nearly 600 exploration and production firms.
  • Houston has more than 170 pipeline operators.
  • Hundreds of manufacturers of energy-sector products call Houston home.

In recent years, industry giants such as CITGO and Noble and smaller energy-related companies including Johnson Engineering and Hydralift, Inc. have relocated to Houston. Another 192 energy businesses have found Houston fertile ground for growth. In every case, expansions and relocations equal jobs for the Houston region.

Houston Entrepreneurial Enterprises Facts:

  • The Houston region is home to more than 85,000 small businesses
  • Houston's dynamic economy, well-developed information technology sector, talented workforce, business-friendly environment, low costs of living and ease of doing business make it a natural magnet for entrepreneurs.
  • Houston ranked #2 on the Milken Institute's 2003 Best-Performing Cities Index
  • Site Selection magazine ranked the Houston-Baytown-Sugar Land metro area in the top 10 of Metro Areas for Investment in its March, 2004 issue
  • Houston has the lowest cost of living among the country's 24 largest metropolitan areas, according to the ACCRA Cost of Living Index for the first quarter of 2005
  • With no state personal income or state property taxes, Houston has one of the lowest per-family tax burdens of any major U.S. city

Enterpreneurial Enterprises Resources:

  • The Greater Houston Partnership Emerging Business Council
  • The Greater Houston Partnership Business Development Division
  • Texas Economic Development Web site
  • Small Business Administration
  • University of Houston Small Business Development Center

Enterpreneurial Enterprises Events:

The Greater Houston Partnership Super Summit, held yearly, helps emerging businesses learn to better partner with established corporations

 

============================================

Oil Companies, Experts Discuss Alternative Energy Development

http://www.voanews.com/english/archive/2006-02/2006-02-07-voa1.cfm?CFID=14451546&CFTOKEN=59544590
By Greg Flakus Houston 07 February 2006

 

 

Around 1,800 oil and gas company executives, government energy ministers and other players in the world energy sector have gathered in Houston for a special emphasis on developing new sources of energy.

The theme for this year's conference is "The New Prize: Energy's Next Era," and that encompasses everything from extraction of oil from Canada's extensive tar sands to development of solar power and ethanol.

CERA Senior Advisor James Rosenfield is one of the three men who founded the conference in 1983. He tells VOA that many of the big oil companies represented here are already investing a lot of money in alternative energy programs.

"A lot of the new economy of energy is going to be driven by the international oil companies such as Shell, BP and Exxon, who are really investing billions and billions of dollars in R and D (Research and Development) for new sources of supply, solar alternatives, fuel cells, distributed generation, really across the spectrum," Rosenfield said. "In the case of BP, their focus has been on electric power, actually, using a lot of their technology to look at alternative and renewable sources of electric power generation."

Rosenfield says using CERAWeek to focus on such issues as alternative energy, non-conventional oil sources and conservation could have important consequences worldwide because participants represent every aspect of the international energy business.

"We will have exploration and production companies, national oil companies, integrated oil companies, but also utilities, energy end users, consumers such as Dow and Boeing and some of the automotive companies as well and then the financial institutions that provide the capital, in many cases, for the industry," he said.

Included in the mix of participants are representatives from several member nations of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries, known as OPEC. One of the chief speakers at the opening ceremony Tuesday will be Saudi Arabia's Oil Minister, Ali Naimi.

OPEC leaders have at times expressed concern over US and European efforts to develop alternative energy because it could divert investment from development of conventional energy sources. In an appearance here in Houston last year, the head of the Saudi oil company, Aramco, said his nation's vast oil reserves represent a reliable supply of energy that alternative energy programs are not likely to equal any time soon.

But Rosenfield says he does not believe the Saudis are against development of other energy sources.

"I think that the Saudis actually take a view that we are in this together, that we need to build the world's oil and energy supply, to build a stable and diversified supply base," he added. "We will hear from Mr. Naimi and what he has to say, but, while they are committed to an oil and hydrocarbon economy, they also recognize that over multi-decades we are going to be looking towards a lot of different sources of supply as well."

In his state of the union address last week, President Bush called for programs that would lessen U.S. dependence on foreign sources of oil and gave special emphasis to the development of biofuels like ethanol. Brazil, which has a successful ethanol program based on fuel from sugar cane, is also represented at CERAWeek and Rosenfield says he expects a lot of discussion among participants about such programs.

=====================================


On 6/5/06, Edward Kramer <onekindr@...> wrote:

Maybe what I meant to say is carbon is in your every day life -from the tires on the car (are they rubber): or the PC housing, to the packageing of your groceries etc. That is our foundation of consumer products. Does a barrel of oil go for 100 % usage of  gasoline and petrol products? Next time you eat a chocolate bar, think of what is in that chocolate bar. The real treasure thats in  oil is the refined black carbon, the building block of a plastics. Plastics equate to consumption which equals growth. The delimea we face is how to conserve. If you watch PBS, even Chevron advertises that half the worlds energy supply is used up, the problem is how to effectively use the rest. For sure, it is going to be more expensive, and hence under a capitilistic system, the growth of other competing dollar entities are going to shrink. That is not a good thing at all. The city of Houston has not not taken heed to this warning. they are by far the largest user of electricity, yet have not one action plan to make changes. I heard they found some federal money and invested in a wind farm at King Ranch. Maybe they can open an annex buiding next door.

----- Original Message -----

From: pencil1959

Sent: Sunday, June 04, 2006 11:37 PM

Subject: [hreg] Re: Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth

 

Maybe I'm misunderstanding your comments, but please note that: 
(1) "black carbon" is not the basic building block of life; (2)
carbon is an element that is indeed the building block of life; (3)
carbon in various molecular forms is "burned" by animals every day
to form CO2; (4) CO2 is "recycled" by plants that convert it into
sugars, cellulose, etc. that are then used by animals via #2, as
well as used for building houses, burning to heat them, etc.; marine
invertebrates fix a lot of CO2 by incorporation into carbonates,
which we humans also use in various ways; (5) I haven't read any
serious scientists proposing that we will exhaust the world's carbon
supply by burning it up; (6) none of this is to dispute that CO2
levels are at record highs, but simply to remind HREG readers that
the chemistry of the carbon cycle is complex and varied because it
IS the foundation of life--let's try to keep the basic facts
straight.

Robert Johnston


--- In hreg@yahoogroups.com, "Edward Kramer" <onekindr@...> wrote:
>
> A geophysicist will argue that we are in a natural warming caused
by changing sea levels, shift in plates and natural changes in the
jet stream. Global warming might be a small cause of the natural
warming trend, and the earth atmosphee can handle any Co2 gases that
we humans combust. Electricity is suppose to make our life better,
and if we do not find a sustainable source of electricity, life for
our children and theirs will revert to prehistoric times. We are
here for a very short time, we should only borrow from mother
nature, not take. If we deplete the carbon resources,
> what is the next generation going to do for the very basic
building life of all matter-black carbon. Rather than utilizing the
carbon for the solid production of physical goods, we are burning it
up in combustion for electricity. Once its gone, its gone. If we do
not wake up and make some serious changes in our lifestyles, how we
use the exiting resources, the future does not look so bright the
children.
>   ----- Original Message -----
>   From: Sarah Carriger
>   To: hreg@yahoogroups.com
>   Sent: Sunday, June 04, 2006 6:53 PM
>   Subject: Re: [hreg] Roger Ebert reviews An Inconvenient Truth
>
>
>   I do not understand the comment of where the children are going
to play.  Same place they played before the turn of the 20th
century - before oil production became a big business - outside.  If
fossil fuel is causing global warming, then isn't this a good thing
that we run out of fossil fuels???  This planet and her inhabitants
survived just fine without oil and we can do it again.  It appears
that only when the supply is indeed limited will there be any
advances in alternative energy production, because at that point
there will be no choice.
>
>
>   Edward Kramer wrote:
>     Thanks for the invite, but I would rather conserve my fuel, as
the round trip from my house is costly and I will do my part to help
the future. Remeber, there is only 70-80 year supply of fossil fuel
in the world. Where are the chiildren going to play?
>
>
>
>   SPONSORED LINKS Renewable energy  Renewable energy resources 
Renewable energy sources 
>         Renewable energy system  Renewable energy news  Houston
texas 
>
>
> -------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------
>   YAHOO! GROUPS LINKS
>
>     a..  Visit your group "hreg" on the web.
>      
>     b..  To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
>      hreg-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
>      
>     c..  Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms
of Service.
>
>
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>






SPONSORED LINKS

Renewable energy

Renewable energy resources

Renewable energy sources

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Renewable energy news

Houston texas

 

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SPONSORED LINKS

Renewable energy

Renewable energy resources

Renewable energy sources

Renewable energy system

Renewable energy news

Houston texas

 

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(210) 698-7109
www.sbtdesigns.com

 


Reply | Messages in this Topic (23)
#4350 From: "Kevin L. Conlin" <kconlin@...>
Date: Mon Jun 5, 2006 6:39 pm
Subject: RE: Sunballs - local reps wanted 		kconlin@...
Send Email Send Email
  
I wouldn't run out and buy some quite yet.  I haven't had a chance to
thoroughly check out their web site, but it seems to have a lot of hype, and
few facts.  Their home page touts a 1200 sq meter home that produces 2MW per
month, but there are no photo's.  I looked at some of the construction
details of their system, and it definitely is not designed to last 25 years.
They also claim their system produces 5X flat panels, yet their production
numbers say a 330W system will produce 660kWh per year.  Their numbers just
don't add up.
This would not be the first time a new solar product was oversold and over
-hyped, buyer beware, if it sounds too good to be true it probably isn't.

________________________
Kevin Conlin
Solarcraft, Inc.
13130 Stafford Road, Suite 125
Stafford, TX 77477-4536
(281)495-0438
fax (281)495-0440
kconlin@...
www.solarcraft.net


-----Original Message-----
From: Paul Archer [mailto:tigger@...]
Sent: Monday, June 05, 2006 11:40 AM
To: hreg@yahoogroups.com
Cc: Cindy Yepez
Subject: Re: [hreg] Sunballs - local reps wanted

I just ran across this in my personal archive of the list. I've checked the
website, and it looks like they are indeed offering systems for sale now.
In fact, they are offering 3KW systems (3KW inverter plus either 9x330w
SunCubes or 20x150w SunCubes) for AU $10,680. That's about US $8000--plus
shipping, of course.

Just out of curiosity, does anyone have a ballpark on what a traditional
(large panel) 3KW system runs?


Paul



Nov 2005, Nan Hildreth wrote:

> Compared to panels, sunballs are more efficient (33% vs 15%),  work
> better in Houston's heat, should be available in a few
> months.     Their website asks for solar dealers interested in
> selling their product.  http://www.greenandgoldenergy.com.au/
>
> I want a couple.    With federal tax credit they seem to have a
> better payback than getting a new Sears fridge.  (1.5 or 2 years).
>
>
> Nan Hildreth, Houston
> 713-842-6643   NanHildreth@...
> 713-443-3104 cell
> 3939 Luca St.
> Houston, Tx 77021
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>
>
>
>



--------------------------------------------------------------
"I'd cry/cry for the future/but I wouldn't get anything done."
----------------------Hunters + Collectors--------------------




Yahoo! Groups Links

Reply | Messages in this Topic (19)
#4351 From: Nan Hildreth <nanhildreth@...>
Date: Mon Jun 5, 2006 6:39 pm
Subject: Call Congress on Global Warming 		nanhildreth@...
Send Email Send Email
 
Call Congress especially if your member of Congress is Sheila Jackson-Lee or Al Green.  Tell the clerk who answers the phone "My name is _________   I'm a constituent calling to ask you to vote for CAFE standards to raise fuel economy."  Vote should be today or in a couple of days.

Sheila Jackson-Lee (202) 225-3816
Al Green (202) 225-7508

If you're not sure who your member of Congress is http://www.house.gov/writerep/

Sheila Jackson-Lee's District includes much of the inner city, Heights, Montrose, Med Center,  and also northeast, near southeast and northwest. 
Al Green's district is southwest, outside the loop, west of Mykawa, south of Westheimer.  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:TX09_109.gif


From: "Luke Metzger" <luke@...>
To: <NanHildreth@...>

Dear Houston Environmental Leaders,
 
As you know, increasing the gas mileage of cars and trucks is one of the best things we can do to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases. According to the Union of Concerned Scientists, raising gas mileage to just 33 mpg would reduce global warming pollution by 344 million metric tons and would save drivers more than $3,800 in gasoline costs over the life of the vehicle. The current uproar over gas prices gives us one of the best opportunities in years to get Congress to increase mileage standards, but automobile manufacturers are doing everything they can to block action. As early as this week, Representatives Boehlert and Markey will offer an amendment on the floor of the House of Representatives to raise CAFÉ standards to 33 mpg. We expect the vote to be very close, so I’m writing to ask you to call two key swing votes from Houston – Rep. Sheila Jackson-Lee and Rep. Al Green. Jackson-Lee has voted against increasing gas mileage standards in the past, but with enough contact from her constituents and Houston leaders she may switch her vote this time. Rep. Green has not yet voted on CAFÉ standards, but his poor performance on environmental issues thus far leaves his vote in doubt. Please call their offices today (phone numbers below) and urge them to support the Boehlert-Markey amendment to raise gas mileage standards. Learn more at: http://www.environmenttexas.org/energy/fuel-efficient-cars.
 
Sincerely,
 
Luke Metzger
Environment Texas
 
Sheila Jackson-Lee (202) 225-3816
Al Green (202) 225-7508
 
Letter to Editor in Houston Chronicle: http://chron.com/disp/story.mpl/editorial/outlook/3852038.html



Like cutting fuel costs in half







WITH gas prices once again on the rise, members of Congress are rushing to propose everything from $100 rebate checks to opening our beautiful coasts to drilling. Yet Americans are rejecting these false solutions ­ they won't reduce our dependence on oil. The real solution is to make cars go farther on a gallon of gas. Currently available technology would allow us to nearly double average gas mileage to 40 mpg, and for a family's budget, that would be like cutting the price of gas in half. Raising gas mileage standards to 40 mpg would also cut 600 million tons of global warming pollution. And we'd save more than eight times as much oil as we imported from Iraq in 2004. Our congressional representatives should support legislation to raise our gas mileage standards.

LUKE METZGER Environment Texas, Austin
 
***We have moved! Please note my new address and phone number****
 
************************************************************
Luke Metzger
Advocate
Environment Texas: The New Home of TexPIRG's environmental work
1009 West Sixth Street
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Austin, Texas 78703
(512) 479-0388
(512) 479-0400 fax
www.EnvironmentTexas.org
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Nan Hildreth, 713-842-6643 NanHildreth@...
3939 Luca St.  Houston, Tx 77021

"Life is a daring adventure, or nothing. To keep our faces toward change and behave like free spirits in the presence of fate is strength undefeatable."
Helen Keller


Reply | Messages in this Topic (1)
#4352 From: Paul Archer <tigger@...>
Date: Mon Jun 5, 2006 7:23 pm
Subject: RE: Sunballs - local reps wanted 		geek65535
Send Email Send Email
  
1:39pm, Kevin L. Conlin wrote:

> I wouldn't run out and buy some quite yet.  I haven't had a chance to
> thoroughly check out their web site, but it seems to have a lot of hype, and
> few facts.  Their home page touts a 1200 sq meter home that produces 2MW per
> month, but there are no photo's.  I looked at some of the construction
> details of their system, and it definitely is not designed to last 25 years.
> They also claim their system produces 5X flat panels, yet their production
> numbers say a 330W system will produce 660kWh per year.  Their numbers just
> don't add up.
> This would not be the first time a new solar product was oversold and over
> -hyped, buyer beware, if it sounds too good to be true it probably isn't.
>
I agree with you that it's extremely important to be careful with a new
vendor hyping a new product that's baded on a new technology.
But the numbers you cite do actually add up. 330w times 5.5 hours usable sun
a day times 365 days a year equals 660kwh.

Paul



>
> I just ran across this in my personal archive of the list. I've checked the
> website, and it looks like they are indeed offering systems for sale now.
> In fact, they are offering 3KW systems (3KW inverter plus either 9x330w
> SunCubes or 20x150w SunCubes) for AU $10,680. That's about US $8000--plus
> shipping, of course.
>
> Just out of curiosity, does anyone have a ballpark on what a traditional
> (large panel) 3KW system runs?
>
>
>> Compared to panels, sunballs are more efficient (33% vs 15%),  work
>> better in Houston's heat, should be available in a few
>> months.     Their website asks for solar dealers interested in
>> selling their product.  http://www.greenandgoldenergy.com.au/
>>
>> I want a couple.    With federal tax credit they seem to have a
>> better payback than getting a new Sears fridge.  (1.5 or 2 years).
>>

Reply | Messages in this Topic (19)
#4353 From: "Gary Beck" <eco@...>
Date: Mon Jun 5, 2006 7:20 pm
Subject: RE: ICF open house 		garyebeck
Send Email Send Email
 

I would be interested in the cost and thermal performance difference between wood frame/icynene insulation and wood frame/batt insulation.

 

From: hreg@yahoogroups.com [mailto:hreg@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of n/ a
Sent: Friday, June 02, 2006 8:22 PM
To: hreg@yahoogroups.com
Subject: RE: [hreg] ICF open house

 

LOL.  poor thing.

 

you don't need the industry to tell you the differences, and then tout their findings.  do your own homework.

 

geeze. 

From: "Kathleen Carrier" <kathleencarrier@...>
Reply-To: hreg@yahoogroups.com
To: <hreg@yahoogroups.com>
Subject: [hreg] ICF open house
Date: Wed, 17 May 2006 23:01:02 -0500

We are having another ICF open house.? See attached.? We are working closely with Icynene to create energy calculations that compare the house with ICF/Icynene insulation to the same house built with a wood frame and batt insulation.? When the final numbers are in, I?ll be happy to share.? Looks like energy costs will be between half to a third of traditional construction.

?

Talked with the Icynene installer a bit today ? their business is growing like crazy.?

?

Hope to see some of you at the open house.? Please come say hi to me.? (but only if you want to say nice things)

?

Kathleen Carrier

?

?

 

YAHOO! GROUPS LINKS

 

 

 

><< ghwebemail.jpg >>

 


Reply | Messages in this Topic (5)
#4354 From: "Kevin L. Conlin" <kconlin@...>
Date: Mon Jun 5, 2006 7:50 pm
Subject: RE: Sunballs - local reps wanted 		kconlin@...
Send Email Send Email
  
Hi Paul,  You're right, those numbers do add up, but it is hardly 5 times
the output of flat panels. In addition, that production would only occur in
an ideal situation, with no derating for inverters or cell heating, which
typically reduces output up to 20%.  That is what made me think they weren't
for real, any time you promise that kind of improvement over proven
technology, I'm suspect.

________________________
Kevin Conlin
Solarcraft, Inc.
13130 Stafford Road, Suite 125
Stafford, TX 77477-4536
(281)495-0438
fax (281)495-0440
kconlin@...
www.solarcraft.net


-----Original Message-----
From: Paul Archer [mailto:tigger@...]
Sent: Monday, June 05, 2006 2:24 PM
To: hreg@yahoogroups.com
Subject: RE: [hreg] Sunballs - local reps wanted

1:39pm, Kevin L. Conlin wrote:

> I wouldn't run out and buy some quite yet.  I haven't had a chance to
> thoroughly check out their web site, but it seems to have a lot of hype,
and
> few facts.  Their home page touts a 1200 sq meter home that produces 2MW
per
> month, but there are no photo's.  I looked at some of the construction
> details of their system, and it definitely is not designed to last 25
years.
> They also claim their system produces 5X flat panels, yet their production
> numbers say a 330W system will produce 660kWh per year.  Their numbers
just
> don't add up.
> This would not be the first time a new solar product was oversold and over
> -hyped, buyer beware, if it sounds too good to be true it probably isn't.
>
I agree with you that it's extremely important to be careful with a new
vendor hyping a new product that's baded on a new technology.
But the numbers you cite do actually add up. 330w times 5.5 hours usable sun

a day times 365 days a year equals 660kwh.

Paul



>
> I just ran across this in my personal archive of the list. I've checked
the
> website, and it looks like they are indeed offering systems for sale now.
> In fact, they are offering 3KW systems (3KW inverter plus either 9x330w
> SunCubes or 20x150w SunCubes) for AU $10,680. That's about US $8000--plus
> shipping, of course.
>
> Just out of curiosity, does anyone have a ballpark on what a traditional
> (large panel) 3KW system runs?
>
>
>> Compared to panels, sunballs are more efficient (33% vs 15%),  work
>> better in Houston's heat, should be available in a few
>> months.     Their website asks for solar dealers interested in
>> selling their product.  http://www.greenandgoldenergy.com.au/
>>
>> I want a couple.    With federal tax credit they seem to have a
>> better payback than getting a new Sears fridge.  (1.5 or 2 years).
>>




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