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  • Category: Environment
  • Founded: Jul 18, 1999
  • Language: English
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#9283 From: evelyn sardina <evelynsardina@...>
Date: Sun Sep 20, 2009 7:03 pm
Subject: List of venues for Solar Tour
evelynsardina
Send Email Send Email
 
Is there a list for the venues that will be on the tour? If so where can I find it?


#9284 From: mkewert@...
Date: Mon Sep 21, 2009 12:51 am
Subject: Re: List of venues for Solar Tour
mkewert
Send Email Send Email
 
Yes! The full website is up and it looks great!
www.houstonsolartour.org
Click on 'Project Sites'.

----- Original Message -----
From: "evelyn sardina" <evelynsardina@...>
To: "hreg" <hreg@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Sunday, September 20, 2009 2:03:56 PM GMT -06:00 Guadalajara / Mexico City / Monterrey
Subject: [hreg] List of venues for Solar Tour

 

Is there a list for the venues that will be on the tour? If so where can I find it?


#9285 From: mkewert@...
Date: Tue Sep 22, 2009 2:31 am
Subject: Re: Houston Green Radio Shows
mkewert
Send Email Send Email
 
Everyone,
Be sure to call in to your favorite radio shows and tell them about the solar tour Oct 3rd!
www.houstonsolartour.org

Another one that advertised for us last year was Home Improvement Hotline Saturdays 9-11am on 950am.

Mike
----- Original Message -----
From: "Tyra Rankin" <tyra@...>
To: hreg@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Friday, September 18, 2009 4:22:52 PM GMT -06:00 Guadalajara / Mexico City / Monterrey
Subject: [hreg] Houston Green Radio Shows

 

Hello everyone:

 

Here is a new Houston AM green radio program – 2 hours on how to cut energy costs.

http://houston.bizjournals.com/houston/stories/2009/09/14/daily48.html?ed=2009-09-18&ana=e_du_pub

 

Public FM radio - KPFT 90.1 Pacifica has several really great green shows. A favorite is Progressive Forum, Thursdays at 7pm.

http://www.progressiveforum.org/

 

Also on 90.1, Explorations in Science with Dr. Michio Kaku is another favorite.

http://mkaku.org/

 

Best,

Tyra Rankin

 

 


#9286 From: "Jay" <txses@...>
Date: Tue Sep 22, 2009 4:01 pm
Subject: Plan for solar plant in Mojave scrapped
jay.ring...
Send Email Send Email
 
Oakland's BrightSource Energy Inc. said this week that it has scrapped a
controversial plan to build a major solar thermal power plant in eastern Mojave
Desert wilderness that Democratic Sen. Dianne Feinstein wants to transform into
a national monument.

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/09/20/MN4T19OTBJ.DTL

#9287 From: Ariel Thomann <ajthomann@...>
Date: Tue Sep 22, 2009 10:20 pm
Subject: How others see it
ariel_thomann
Send Email Send Email
 
I'm sure they're not the least bit biased, but here IS a challenge to the US.  I hope Obama will react constructively, whereas I know Dubya would not.  Now, if just our Congress....

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2009-09/23/content_8722789.htm

Ariel
- We are all Human beings here together.  We have to help one another, since otherwise there is NO ONE who will help.
- All countries need a NO REGRETS strategic policy regarding non-renewable resources, starting with water.
- Plan ahead seven generations -- reduce all your consumption, and eliminate waste.
- Insurance companies are in the business of collecting premiums and denying benefits.  Let's boot their CEO's and lesser bureaucrats out of the health care system.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -


#9288 From: noyes livingston <noyesliv@...>
Date: Tue Sep 22, 2009 11:37 pm
Subject: backup and portable system
noyesliv@...
Send Email Send Email
 
Please read and respond if you have an idea.  Else, direct me to a group or forum who does.  My primary goal is to find a company either in the Houston area or on the internet to start...
 
A)  What is the best one stop shop for purchasing a simple, portable emergency backup system?  The only reference point I have is Northern tools that sells a system for $4700 (BPS 1250-S Solar Standby Power System)
which comes with:
-mounting rack
-two x 120 watt PV panels
-two x 220Ah sealed AGM batteries
-3 stage 30 Amp battery charger
-BPS inverter/charger providing 1250 running watts
 
I want to run two halogen or LED lights, a fan, a small TV or radio and perhaps a hotplate for at least two weeks considering spotty solar recharging capability.  It would weight around 100-200 pounds, be assembled easily and mounted just about anywhere.
 
* I do have a Tripp Lite 1000 watt inverter (PV 1000 FC) in my garage for last two years, but it is military issue and supposed to be able to run forever if this reduces my cost
 
** I am also interested in adding a low cost, small DC refigerator/cooler and can add to my budget if not excessive.
 
*** the most important criterea of all is that I have a "mad money" budget of around $1500 for this.
My goal is to prepare for a sustained power outage and learn a little.

B)  Are any classes held in the Houston area or what is the best starting point for learning on the internet?
 
Thanks.



From: Ariel Thomann <ajthomann@...>
To: "Org-PeakOil etc, HREG" <hreg@yahoogroups.com>; Houston-Climate <ProtectHoustonsClimate@...>
Sent: Tuesday, September 22, 2009 5:20:48 PM
Subject: [hreg] How others see it

 

I'm sure they're not the least bit biased, but here IS a challenge to the US.  I hope Obama will react constructively, whereas I know Dubya would not.  Now, if just our Congress....

http://www.chinadai ly.com.cn/ china/2009- 09/23/content_ 8722789.htm

Ariel
- We are all Human beings here together.  We have to help one another, since otherwise there is NO ONE who will help.
- All countries need a NO REGRETS strategic policy regarding non-renewable resources, starting with water.
- Plan ahead seven generations -- reduce all your consumption, and eliminate waste.
- Insurance companies are in the business of collecting premiums and denying benefits.  Let's boot their CEO's and lesser bureaucrats out of the health care system.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -



#9289 From: Bill or Dorothy Swann <dbswann4@...>
Date: Wed Sep 23, 2009 12:41 am
Subject: Re: backup and portable system
dbswann4
Send Email Send Email
 
Animal farm, in Sealy, Tx is an off the grid complex. It is listed on the upcoming solar homes tour. Cas Vanwoerden is the owner, and he teaches a class at llu <http://www.llu.com/sdc/group_classes_llu.html?classgroup=3796>.
Hope this helps.
 




From: noyes livingston <noyesliv@...>
To: hreg@yahoogroups.com
Cc: kevin@...
Sent: Tuesday, September 22, 2009 6:37:34 PM
Subject: [hreg] backup and portable system

 

Please read and respond if you have an idea.  Else, direct me to a group or forum who does.  My primary goal is to find a company either in the Houston area or on the internet to start...
 
A)  What is the best one stop shop for purchasing a simple, portable emergency backup system?  The only reference point I have is Northern tools that sells a system for $4700 (BPS 1250-S Solar Standby Power System)
which comes with:
-mounting rack
-two x 120 watt PV panels
-two x 220Ah sealed AGM batteries
-3 stage 30 Amp battery charger
-BPS inverter/charger providing 1250 running watts
 
I want to run two halogen or LED lights, a fan, a small TV or radio and perhaps a hotplate for at least two weeks considering spotty solar recharging capability.  It would weight around 100-200 pounds, be assembled easily and mounted just about anywhere.
 
* I do have a Tripp Lite 1000 watt inverter (PV 1000 FC) in my garage for last two years, but it is military issue and supposed to be able to run forever if this reduces my cost
 
** I am also interested in adding a low cost, small DC refigerator/ cooler and can add to my budget if not excessive.
 
*** the most important criterea of all is that I have a "mad money" budget of around $1500 for this.
My goal is to prepare for a sustained power outage and learn a little.

B)  Are any classes held in the Houston area or what is the best starting point for learning on the internet?
 
Thanks.



From: Ariel Thomann <ajthomann@pol. net>
To: "Org-PeakOil etc, HREG" <hreg@yahoogroups. com>; Houston-Climate <ProtectHoustonsClim ate@lists. riseup.net>
Sent: Tuesday, September 22, 2009 5:20:48 PM
Subject: [hreg] How others see it

 

I'm sure they're not the least bit biased, but here IS a challenge to the US.  I hope Obama will react constructively, whereas I know Dubya would not.  Now, if just our Congress....

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2009-09/23/content_8722789.htm

Ariel
- We are all Human beings here together.  We have to help one another, since otherwise there is NO ONE who will help.
- All countries need a NO REGRETS strategic policy regarding non-renewable resources, starting with water.
- Plan ahead seven generations -- reduce all your consumption, and eliminate waste.
- Insurance companies are in the business of collecting premiums and denying benefits.  Let's boot their CEO's and lesser bureaucrats out of the health care system.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -



#9290 From: "Jay" <txses@...>
Date: Wed Sep 23, 2009 1:14 pm
Subject: Re: How others see it
jay.ring...
Send Email Send Email
 
What exactly is an intensity goal?  This paragraph has me confused:

"Industries can carry out trade for carbon intensity quotas, which will
facilitate for overall carbon emission reductions in China, even though there is
no cap for the absolute carbon emissions," said Yang."

But it isn't clear to me what that is or how it works.  Anyone know?




--- In hreg@yahoogroups.com, Ariel Thomann  <ajthomann@...> wrote:
>
> I'm sure they're not the least bit biased, but here IS a challenge to the US.
I hope Obama will react constructively, whereas I know Dubya would not. Now, if
just our Congress....
>
>
> http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2009-09/23/content_8722789.htm Ariel
> - We are all Human beings here together. We have to help one another, since
otherwise there is NO ONE who will help.
> - All countries need a NO REGRETS strategic policy regarding non-renewable
resources, starting with water.
> - Plan ahead seven generations -- reduce all your consumption, and eliminate
waste.
> - Insurance companies are in the business of collecting premiums and denying
benefits. Let's boot their CEO's and lesser bureaucrats out of the health care
system.
> - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
>

#9291 From: "Jay" <txses@...>
Date: Wed Sep 23, 2009 2:18 pm
Subject: Re: backup and portable system
jay.ring...
Send Email Send Email
 
Hey,

Well at $1500 you are not going to get much, but you can still put together a
-very- basic system that will work well.  They key is to keep your expectations
reasonable.

I would look at getting a "power pack" inverter.  These are batteries plus
inverters.   Here is an example model, it costs about $140 - very reasonable:

http://www.amazon.com/Duracell-DPP-600HD-Powerpack-Starter-Emergency/dp/B000TKHM\
WK

The great thing about these is they can be used all the time.  I keep one in my
car in case I need a jump start.  It also works well as a general purpose
automotive inverter, and you can carry it away from the car if you need to.

Now, to attach a solar panel, all you need is a panel and a charge controller. 
The charge controller keeps the solar panel from over charging the battery.

Here is a 7A, 100W charge controller for about $25:
http://www.amazon.com/Sunforce-7-Amp-Charge-Controller/dp/B0006JO0XI

This can be used with up to about a 100W panel.  You may want to get a better
charge controller, more power or better features.  This one will work and is
very, very cheap.

Last, pick a panel.  Any 12V panel will work.  Most 12V panels are actually 12V
nominal, meaning they are used for charging 12V batteries.  They actually
produce 17-21V (or so).  Don't let that confuse you :)

Here is a nice 85W unit for about $430:
http://www.affordable-solar.com/kyocera.kc85.85.watt.solar.panel.htm

So, this is a 85W system, which can handle peak loads of 600W, with battery
backup, for about $600.

I would probably leave it there, but if you want more, look at getting a better
charge controller (30A instead of 7) for around $100, and then buy a second
panel.  That would give you a 170W system for about $1100.

The main downside to this system is the short battery life (12AH)  It won't last
very long after the sun goes down (maybe a hour or two).  The power pack comes
with jumper cables for use on your car.  If you would like, you can buy another
12V battery and attach it directly using these jumper cables - this will
significantly extend your battery life.

Here is a list of batteries you might look at:
http://www.affordable-solar.com/deka.mk.batteries.htm

They have a 97AH battery for about $250, or you can get the 183AH for about
$500.  These are both good buys, it's more a question of how much you want to
spend.  Remember, they are completely optional.

You might start off with the good charge controller and one panel, but no extra
battery.  Once that works and you are comfortable, decide if you need more
battery or the second panel and add that next.

You can scale this system up a little as you go, up to around 500W or so.  Keep
in mind that it is a very low cost system, and keep your expectations reasonably
low.  But it will serve you well.

Anyway, that's what I would do, given the budget.  I don't have any preference
to Affordable Solar or Amazon, they are just convenient pictures and prices. 
Shop around a bit.  If you have any questions feel free to ask, and good luck
with your project!

   - Jay





--- In hreg@yahoogroups.com, noyes livingston <noyesliv@...> wrote:
>
> Please read and respond if you have an idea.  Else, direct me to a group or
forum who does.  My primary goal is to find a company either in the Houston area
or on the internet to start...
>
> A)  What is the best one stop shop for purchasing a simple, portable emergency
backup system?  The only reference point I have is Northern tools that sells a
system for $4700 (BPS 1250-S Solar Standby Power System)
> which comes with:
> -mounting rack
> -two x 120 watt PV panels
> -two x 220Ah sealed AGM batteries
> -3 stage 30 Amp battery charger
> -BPS inverter/charger providing 1250 running watts
>
> I want to run two halogen or LED lights, a fan, a small TV or radio and
perhaps a hotplate for at least two weeks considering spotty solar recharging
capability.  It would weight around 100-200 pounds, be assembled easily and
mounted just about anywhere.
>
> * I do have a Tripp Lite 1000 watt inverter (PV 1000 FC) in my garage for last
two years, but it is military issue and supposed to be able to run forever if
this reduces my cost
>
> ** I am also interested in adding a low cost, small DC refigerator/cooler and
can add to my budget if not excessive.
>
> *** the most important criterea of all is that I have a "mad money" budget of
around $1500 for this.
> My goal is to prepare for a sustained power outage and learn a little.
>
> B)  Are any classes held in the Houston area or what is the best starting
point for learning on the internet?
>
> Thanks.
>
>
>

#9292 From: "J P Malone" <JPMALONE@...>
Date: Wed Sep 23, 2009 2:30 pm
Subject: Top 10 Green building products of 2009
jpmalone42
Send Email Send Email
 
#9293 From: noyes livingston <noyesliv@...>
Date: Wed Sep 23, 2009 3:30 pm
Subject: Re: Re: backup and portable system
noyesliv@...
Send Email Send Email
 
Jay,
 
Outstanding information.  I have received some other advice from another member and this has really fueled my fire.  I have to get on the RE ride somewhere and I set the $1500 budget because 1) I am not sure how long I intend to stay in Houston and it doesn't make sense to get a loan to grid-intertie my home 2) I have to live within my means while I pursue some learning 3) it just makes sense to be prepared for the next sustained power outage. 

I was recommended the Xantrex powerhub 1800 which is an outstanding product becuase it is an all-in-one charger/inverter but I already have a Tripp Lite 1000 watt inverter and two 125 Amp hour marine batteries (which gave us power to run a fan during Hurricane Ike at night when we had no power for  a week) which would allow me to get two solar panels, charger, wiring and maybe better batteries?
 
My dad and I are looking at some property in south central Texas in the next year, and I certainly intend on being "off grid" by then.

What about internet courses to learn the fundamentals of system design?

Noyes


From: Jay <txses@...>
To: hreg@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Wednesday, September 23, 2009 9:18:11 AM
Subject: [hreg] Re: backup and portable system

 

Hey,

Well at $1500 you are not going to get much, but you can still put together a -very- basic system that will work well. They key is to keep your expectations reasonable.

I would look at getting a "power pack" inverter. These are batteries plus inverters. Here is an example model, it costs about $140 - very reasonable:

http://www.amazon. com/Duracell- DPP-600HD- Powerpack- Starter-Emergenc y/dp/B000TKHMWK

The great thing about these is they can be used all the time. I keep one in my car in case I need a jump start. It also works well as a general purpose automotive inverter, and you can carry it away from the car if you need to.

Now, to attach a solar panel, all you need is a panel and a charge controller. The charge controller keeps the solar panel from over charging the battery.

Here is a 7A, 100W charge controller for about $25:
http://www.amazon. com/Sunforce- 7-Amp-Charge- Controller/ dp/B0006JO0XI

This can be used with up to about a 100W panel. You may want to get a better charge controller, more power or better features. This one will work and is very, very cheap.

Last, pick a panel. Any 12V panel will work. Most 12V panels are actually 12V nominal, meaning they are used for charging 12V batteries. They actually produce 17-21V (or so). Don't let that confuse you :)

Here is a nice 85W unit for about $430:
http://www.affordab le-solar. com/kyocera. kc85.85.watt. solar.panel. htm

So, this is a 85W system, which can handle peak loads of 600W, with battery backup, for about $600.

I would probably leave it there, but if you want more, look at getting a better charge controller (30A instead of 7) for around $100, and then buy a second panel. That would give you a 170W system for about $1100.

The main downside to this system is the short battery life (12AH) It won't last very long after the sun goes down (maybe a hour or two). The power pack comes with jumper cables for use on your car. If you would like, you can buy another 12V battery and attach it directly using these jumper cables - this will significantly extend your battery life.

Here is a list of batteries you might look at:
http://www.affordab le-solar. com/deka. mk.batteries. htm

They have a 97AH battery for about $250, or you can get the 183AH for about $500. These are both good buys, it's more a question of how much you want to spend. Remember, they are completely optional.

You might start off with the good charge controller and one panel, but no extra battery. Once that works and you are comfortable, decide if you need more battery or the second panel and add that next.

You can scale this system up a little as you go, up to around 500W or so. Keep in mind that it is a very low cost system, and keep your expectations reasonably low. But it will serve you well.

Anyway, that's what I would do, given the budget. I don't have any preference to Affordable Solar or Amazon, they are just convenient pictures and prices. Shop around a bit. If you have any questions feel free to ask, and good luck with your project!

- Jay

--- In hreg@yahoogroups. com, noyes livingston <noyesliv@.. .> wrote:
>
> Please read and respond if you have an idea.  Else, direct me to a group or forum who does.  My primary goal is to find a company either in the Houston area or on the internet to start...
>
> A)  What is the best one stop shop for purchasing a simple, portable emergency backup system?  The only reference point I have is Northern tools that sells a system for $4700 (BPS 1250-S Solar Standby Power System)
> which comes with:
> -mounting rack
> -two x 120 watt PV panels
> -two x 220Ah sealed AGM batteries
> -3 stage 30 Amp battery charger
> -BPS inverter/charger providing 1250 running watts
>
> I want to run two halogen or LED lights, a fan, a small TV or radio and perhaps a hotplate for at least two weeks considering spotty solar recharging capability.  It would weight around 100-200 pounds, be assembled easily and mounted just about anywhere.
>
> * I do have a Tripp Lite 1000 watt inverter (PV 1000 FC) in my garage for last two years, but it is military issue and supposed to be able to run forever if this reduces my cost
>
> ** I am also interested in adding a low cost, small DC refigerator/ cooler and can add to my budget if not excessive.
>
> *** the most important criterea of all is that I have a "mad money" budget of around $1500 for this.
> My goal is to prepare for a sustained power outage and learn a little.
>
> B)  Are any classes held in the Houston area or what is the best starting point for learning on the internet?
>
> Thanks.
>
>
>



#9294 From: "Robert Johnston" <junk1@...>
Date: Wed Sep 23, 2009 4:45 pm
Subject: RE: Re: How others see it
pencil1959
Send Email Send Email
 

Intensity:  output per unit carbon emissions, I’m assuming, since that is how we use the phrase “energy intensity” (product produced per unit energy consumed in its production)

 

From: hreg@yahoogroups.com [mailto:hreg@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Jay
Sent: Wednesday, September 23, 2009 8:15 AM
To: hreg@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [hreg] Re: How others see it

 

 

What exactly is an intensity goal? This paragraph has me confused:

"Industries can carry out trade for carbon intensity quotas, which will facilitate for overall carbon emission reductions in China, even though there is no cap for the absolute carbon emissions," said Yang."

But it isn't clear to me what that is or how it works. Anyone know?

--- In hreg@yahoogroups.com, Ariel Thomann <ajthomann@...> wrote:
>
> I'm sure they're not the least bit biased, but here IS a challenge to the US. I hope Obama will react constructively, whereas I know Dubya would not. Now, if just our Congress....
>
>
> http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2009-09/23/content_8722789.htm Ariel
> - We are all Human beings here together. We have to help one another, since otherwise there is NO ONE who will help.
> - All countries need a NO REGRETS strategic policy regarding non-renewable resources, starting with water.
> - Plan ahead seven generations -- reduce all your consumption, and eliminate waste.
> - Insurance companies are in the business of collecting premiums and denying benefits. Let's boot their CEO's and lesser bureaucrats out of the health care system.
> - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
>


#9295 From: "Jim & Janet" <jhd1@...>
Date: Wed Sep 23, 2009 4:55 pm
Subject: backup and portable system
txsolarguy
Send Email Send Email
 
Noyes
I hope you will be at the Renewable Energy Roundup this weekend in Fredericksburg. If you can make it there, please come by my booth and say hi. I would like to address some issues about a backup energy system that you may not have considered.
Jays insight has made some great points but there is a lot more to talk about when planning a system with any batteries.
 
best regards
Jim Duncan
North Texas Renewable Energy Inc
817.917.057
ntrei@...
 
----- Original Message -----
Sent: Wednesday, September 23, 2009 10:30 AM
Subject: Re: [hreg] Re: backup and portable system

 

Jay,
 
Outstanding information.  I have received some other advice from another member and this has really fueled my fire.  I have to get on the RE ride somewhere and I set the $1500 budget because 1) I am not sure how long I intend to stay in Houston and it doesn't make sense to get a loan to grid-intertie my home 2) I have to live within my means while I pursue some learning 3) it just makes sense to be prepared for the next sustained power outage. 

I was recommended the Xantrex powerhub 1800 which is an outstanding product becuase it is an all-in-one charger/inverter but I already have a Tripp Lite 1000 watt inverter and two 125 Amp hour marine batteries (which gave us power to run a fan during Hurricane Ike at night when we had no power for  a week) which would allow me to get two solar panels, charger, wiring and maybe better batteries?
 
My dad and I are looking at some property in south central Texas in the next year, and I certainly intend on being "off grid" by then.

What about internet courses to learn the fundamentals of system design?

Noyes


From: Jay <txses@mailbot.transcendent.us>
To: hreg@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Wednesday, September 23, 2009 9:18:11 AM
Subject: [hreg] Re: backup and portable system

 

Hey,

Well at $1500 you are not going to get much, but you can still put together a -very- basic system that will work well. They key is to keep your expectations reasonable.

I would look at getting a "power pack" inverter. These are batteries plus inverters. Here is an example model, it costs about $140 - very reasonable:

http://www.amazon. com/Duracell- DPP-600HD- Powerpack- Starter-Emergenc y/dp/B000TKHMWK

The great thing about these is they can be used all the time. I keep one in my car in case I need a jump start. It also works well as a general purpose automotive inverter, and you can carry it away from the car if you need to.

Now, to attach a solar panel, all you need is a panel and a charge controller. The charge controller keeps the solar panel from over charging the battery.

Here is a 7A, 100W charge controller for about $25:
http://www.amazon. com/Sunforce- 7-Amp-Charge- Controller/ dp/B0006JO0XI

This can be used with up to about a 100W panel. You may want to get a better charge controller, more power or better features. This one will work and is very, very cheap.

Last, pick a panel. Any 12V panel will work. Most 12V panels are actually 12V nominal, meaning they are used for charging 12V batteries. They actually produce 17-21V (or so). Don't let that confuse you :)

Here is a nice 85W unit for about $430:
http://www.affordab le-solar. com/kyocera. kc85.85.watt. solar.panel. htm

So, this is a 85W system, which can handle peak loads of 600W, with battery backup, for about $600.

I would probably leave it there, but if you want more, look at getting a better charge controller (30A instead of 7) for around $100, and then buy a second panel. That would give you a 170W system for about $1100.

The main downside to this system is the short battery life (12AH) It won't last very long after the sun goes down (maybe a hour or two). The power pack comes with jumper cables for use on your car. If you would like, you can buy another 12V battery and attach it directly using these jumper cables - this will significantly extend your battery life.

Here is a list of batteries you might look at:
http://www.affordab le-solar. com/deka. mk.batteries. htm

They have a 97AH battery for about $250, or you can get the 183AH for about $500. These are both good buys, it's more a question of how much you want to spend. Remember, they are completely optional.

You might start off with the good charge controller and one panel, but no extra battery. Once that works and you are comfortable, decide if you need more battery or the second panel and add that next.

You can scale this system up a little as you go, up to around 500W or so. Keep in mind that it is a very low cost system, and keep your expectations reasonably low. But it will serve you well.

Anyway, that's what I would do, given the budget. I don't have any preference to Affordable Solar or Amazon, they are just convenient pictures and prices. Shop around a bit. If you have any questions feel free to ask, and good luck with your project!

- Jay

--- In hreg@yahoogroups. com, noyes livingston <noyesliv@.. .> wrote:
>
> Please read and respond if you have an idea.  Else, direct me to a group or forum who does.  My primary goal is to find a company either in the Houston area or on the internet to start...
>
> A)  What is the best one stop shop for purchasing a simple, portable emergency backup system?  The only reference point I have is Northern tools that sells a system for $4700 (BPS 1250-S Solar Standby Power System)
> which comes with:
> -mounting rack
> -two x 120 watt PV panels
> -two x 220Ah sealed AGM batteries
> -3 stage 30 Amp battery charger
> -BPS inverter/charger providing 1250 running watts
>
> I want to run two halogen or LED lights, a fan, a small TV or radio and perhaps a hotplate for at least two weeks considering spotty solar recharging capability.  It would weight around 100-200 pounds, be assembled easily and mounted just about anywhere.
>
> * I do have a Tripp Lite 1000 watt inverter (PV 1000 FC) in my garage for last two years, but it is military issue and supposed to be able to run forever if this reduces my cost
>
> ** I am also interested in adding a low cost, small DC refigerator/ cooler and can add to my budget if not excessive.
>
> *** the most important criterea of all is that I have a "mad money" budget of around $1500 for this.
> My goal is to prepare for a sustained power outage and learn a little.
>
> B)  Are any classes held in the Houston area or what is the best starting point for learning on the internet?
>
> Thanks.
>
>
>



#9296 From: "mccrowhurst" <mccrowhurst@...>
Date: Wed Sep 23, 2009 7:15 pm
Subject: Questions for any LEED AP certified HREG members out there
mccrowhurst
Send Email Send Email
 
Hello:

I'm trying to get some questions answered about the LEED AP certification
process and I figured there might be some LEED AP certified people who belong to
the HREG group.

If you are LEED AP certified and able to provide some feedback to the following
questions, please post a reply (you can either reply to the group, or simply
reply to me individually... either one is fine with me).

Questions:
1) Now that the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI) has changed up the
certification exams to include mutiple "tiers" of certifications (e.g. the new
"Green Associate" Tier 1 certification), I'm wondering what might be the best
method to prepare for the exams. I found a website
(http://www.greenexamprep.com) that can provide a study guide, a set of flash
cards, and up to four online practice exams for a flat rate (I forget how much
it is off the top of my head). Do any of you have experience with this
particular company, and are their study guides and related materials worth the
cost?

2) The GBCI has a series of training seminars that supposedly prepare people for
the exams, but they are very expensive (e.g. there's a Level 200 "LEED Core
Concepts and Strategies" course coming up next month in Houston... this one-day
course is $345 for USGBC members and $445 for non-members). Are these
preperation courses worth the money, or can one successfully prepare for the
LEED exams through self-study methods?

Please reply if you can answer these questions, or if you have any other
input/feedback re: the LEED AP certification process.

Thanks, in advance!

Regards,
M. Chad Crowhurst
mccrowhurst@...

#9297 From: <justin@...>
Date: Wed Sep 23, 2009 7:29 pm
Subject: Re: Questions for any LEED AP certified HREG members out there
gcrenewabler...
Send Email Send Email
 
Hey Chad,
 
I may be biased because I serve on the board of committees for the USGBC Galveston Branch, but the exam prep course offers very valuable content pertaining to the content that will be on the exam. However, if you can purchase the LEED handbook pertaining to your level of certification desired, I'd get it and study it good. Then study it again...and again...until you have the entire thing memorized. This should put you in a very good position to pass.
 
-Justin
 
 
----- Original Message -----
Sent: Wednesday, September 23, 2009 2:15 PM
Subject: [hreg] Questions for any LEED AP certified HREG members out there

 

Hello:

I'm trying to get some questions answered about the LEED AP certification process and I figured there might be some LEED AP certified people who belong to the HREG group.

If you are LEED AP certified and able to provide some feedback to the following questions, please post a reply (you can either reply to the group, or simply reply to me individually... either one is fine with me).

Questions:
1) Now that the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI) has changed up the certification exams to include mutiple "tiers" of certifications (e.g. the new "Green Associate" Tier 1 certification), I'm wondering what might be the best method to prepare for the exams. I found a website (http://www.greenexamprep.com) that can provide a study guide, a set of flash cards, and up to four online practice exams for a flat rate (I forget how much it is off the top of my head). Do any of you have experience with this particular company, and are their study guides and related materials worth the cost?

2) The GBCI has a series of training seminars that supposedly prepare people for the exams, but they are very expensive (e.g. there's a Level 200 "LEED Core Concepts and Strategies" course coming up next month in Houston... this one-day course is $345 for USGBC members and $445 for non-members). Are these preperation courses worth the money, or can one successfully prepare for the LEED exams through self-study methods?

Please reply if you can answer these questions, or if you have any other input/feedback re: the LEED AP certification process.

Thanks, in advance!

Regards,
M. Chad Crowhurst
mccrowhurst@yahoo.com


#9298 From: "Gary Beck" <eco@...>
Date: Wed Sep 23, 2009 7:42 pm
Subject: RE: Questions for any LEED AP certified HREG members out there
garyebeck
Send Email Send Email
 

I am a 'old school' LEED AP ("accredited person") from the original simpler one-LEED-size-fits-all process (study, pay the test fee, pass, get accredited). The multi tier/level accreditation is a newer 'enhanced' approach from the USGBC so I cannot help with the specifics of that. 

 

On studying for LEED accreditation in general, if you are familiar with most construction methods and basically could either design or build an energy efficient 'green' house or building, with a little extra studying on the various point/ranking systems one could pass the original test.

 

With the current multiple tier/level approach now applied by the USGBC for multiple tier/level accreditation, I think that if you were not too experience in construction you could buy a used study guide on Amazon or Ebay for each tier/level. Then sit in a coffee house long enough (and actually read it) and you would pass each exam tier/level.  Of course flash cards or computer driven study may work better for you, or you may be the type that needs a class to keep you more awake through the finer points, than can be accomplished by evenly spaced double espressos.

 

In those immortal words taken from The WaterBoy,… 

 

"Yew Can Do Eet" - Good Luck!

 

Gary Beck, P.E., SECB, LEED AP

Eco-Holdings Engineering Services

www.ecoegr.com & www.txegr.com

4010 Blue Bonnet Blvd. Ste 114, Houston, Texas 77025

Tel: 713-377-4209  Fax: 832-201-5338

 

SECB certified in the Practice of Structural Engineering, a structural inspector for the Texas Residential Construction Commission SIRP program, and a listed Engineer for the Texas Department of Insurance Wind Storm program. Eco provides Engineering and Engineer's Inspection Services for Residential, Commercial, Lodging, Educational, Industrial and Government Facilities. Eco's design engineering services include AutoCAD based construction documents for permitting and building foundations, structures, storm water systems, and detention ponds; and Autodesk Revit based 3D Building Information Modeling for green building practices.

 

From: hreg@yahoogroups.com [mailto:hreg@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of mccrowhurst
Sent: Wednesday, September 23, 2009 2:16 PM
To: hreg@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [hreg] Questions for any LEED AP certified HREG members out there

 

 

Hello:

I'm trying to get some questions answered about the LEED AP certification process and I figured there might be some LEED AP certified people who belong to the HREG group.

If you are LEED AP certified and able to provide some feedback to the following questions, please post a reply (you can either reply to the group, or simply reply to me individually... either one is fine with me).

Questions:
1) Now that the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI) has changed up the certification exams to include multiple "tiers" of certifications (e.g. the new "Green Associate" Tier 1 certification), I'm wondering what might be the best method to prepare for the exams. I found a website (http://www.greenexamprep.com) that can provide a study guide, a set of flash cards, and up to four online practice exams for a flat rate (I forget how much it is off the top of my head). Do any of you have experience with this particular company, and are their study guides and related materials worth the cost?

2) The GBCI has a series of training seminars that supposedly prepare people for the exams, but they are very expensive (e.g. there's a Level 200 "LEED Core Concepts and Strategies" course coming up next month in Houston... this one-day course is $345 for USGBC members and $445 for non-members). Are these preparation courses worth the money, or can one successfully prepare for the LEED exams through self-study methods?

Please reply if you can answer these questions, or if you have any other input/feedback re: the LEED AP certification process.

Thanks, in advance!

Regards,
M. Chad Crowhurst
mccrowhurst@...


#9299 From: "Polly Ledvina" <polly.ledvina@...>
Date: Wed Sep 23, 2009 8:01 pm
Subject: RE: Questions for any LEED AP certified HREG members out there
pledvina2000
Send Email Send Email
 

One good route may be to join the USGBC Greater Houston Chapter and sign up their study sessions.

 

See: http://usgbc-houston.org/ .

 

That’s not what I did, but I probably would have if the sessions had been available when I needed them.

 

Polly Ledvina

(LEED AP Homes)


From: hreg@yahoogroups.com [mailto:hreg@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of mccrowhurst
Sent: Wednesday, September 23, 2009 2:16 PM
To: hreg@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [hreg] Questions for any LEED AP certified HREG members out there

 

 

Hello:

I'm trying to get some questions answered about the LEED AP certification process and I figured there might be some LEED AP certified people who belong to the HREG group.

If you are LEED AP certified and able to provide some feedback to the following questions, please post a reply (you can either reply to the group, or simply reply to me individually... either one is fine with me).

Questions:
1) Now that the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI) has changed up the certification exams to include mutiple "tiers" of certifications (e.g. the new "Green Associate" Tier 1 certification), I'm wondering what might be the best method to prepare for the exams. I found a website (http://www.greenexamprep.com) that can provide a study guide, a set of flash cards, and up to four online practice exams for a flat rate (I forget how much it is off the top of my head). Do any of you have experience with this particular company, and are their study guides and related materials worth the cost?

2) The GBCI has a series of training seminars that supposedly prepare people for the exams, but they are very expensive (e.g. there's a Level 200 "LEED Core Concepts and Strategies" course coming up next month in Houston... this one-day course is $345 for USGBC members and $445 for non-members). Are these preperation courses worth the money, or can one successfully prepare for the LEED exams through self-study methods?

Please reply if you can answer these questions, or if you have any other input/feedback re: the LEED AP certification process.

Thanks, in advance!

Regards,
M. Chad Crowhurst
mccrowhurst@yahoo.com


#9300 From: TROY VUILLEMOT <troyvuillemot@...>
Date: Wed Sep 23, 2009 8:46 pm
Subject: Re: Questions for any LEED AP certified HREG members out there
troyvuillemot
Send Email Send Email
 
I had GREAT luck with the unlimited simulated exams.
http://www.greenexamprep.com/index.html
$49.95.....60 days unlimited!
Good Luck!!!
 
Troy Vuillemot - LEED AP
On Wed, Sep 23, 2009 at 3:01 PM, Polly Ledvina <polly.ledvina@...> wrote:
 

One good route may be to join the USGBC Greater Houston Chapter and sign up their study sessions.

 

See: http://usgbc-houston.org/ .

 

That’s not what I did, but I probably would have if the sessions had been available when I needed them.

 

Polly Ledvina

(LEED AP Homes)


From: hreg@yahoogroups.com [mailto:hreg@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of mccrowhurst
Sent: Wednesday, September 23, 2009 2:16 PM
To: hreg@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [hreg] Questions for any LEED AP certified HREG members out there

 

 

Hello:



I'm trying to get some questions answered about the LEED AP certification process and I figured there might be some LEED AP certified people who belong to the HREG group.

If you are LEED AP certified and able to provide some feedback to the following questions, please post a reply (you can either reply to the group, or simply reply to me individually... either one is fine with me).

Questions:
1) Now that the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI) has changed up the certification exams to include mutiple "tiers" of certifications (e.g. the new "Green Associate" Tier 1 certification), I'm wondering what might be the best method to prepare for the exams. I found a website (http://www.greenexamprep.com) that can provide a study guide, a set of flash cards, and up to four online practice exams for a flat rate (I forget how much it is off the top of my head). Do any of you have experience with this particular company, and are their study guides and related materials worth the cost?

2) The GBCI has a series of training seminars that supposedly prepare people for the exams, but they are very expensive (e.g. there's a Level 200 "LEED Core Concepts and Strategies" course coming up next month in Houston... this one-day course is $345 for USGBC members and $445 for non-members). Are these preperation courses worth the money, or can one successfully prepare for the LEED exams through self-study methods?

Please reply if you can answer these questions, or if you have any other input/feedback re: the LEED AP certification process.

Thanks, in advance!

Regards,
M. Chad Crowhurst
mccrowhurst@...




--
Troy

#9301 From: tstranger@...
Date: Wed Sep 23, 2009 9:42 pm
Subject: Re: Questions for any LEED AP certified HREG members out there
tystrangerth...
Send Email Send Email
 
I took a study class through USGBC at the end of last year, and then I took
another one through a local architectural firm, BNIM. Catherine Callaway
was the instructor for the second one and I truly learned a lot. The
classes were indeed expensive, but I passed the "old school" test on the
first try.
Good luck!
ty


Ty Stranger-Thorsen, LEED® AP
Houston, TX
The Garland Company, Inc.
www.garlandco.com
c 281-989-1740
f 281-754-4550






        [hreg] Questions for any LEED AP certified HREG members out there


        mccrowhurst
                    to:
                      hreg
                                                             09/23/2009 02:16 PM




        Sent by:
              hreg@yahoogroups.com
       Please respond to hreg










Hello:

I'm trying to get some questions answered about the LEED AP certification
process and I figured there might be some LEED AP certified people who
belong to the HREG group.

If you are LEED AP certified and able to provide some feedback to the
following questions, please post a reply (you can either reply to the
group, or simply reply to me individually... either one is fine with me).

Questions:
1) Now that the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI) has changed
up the certification exams to include mutiple "tiers" of certifications
(e.g. the new "Green Associate" Tier 1 certification), I'm wondering what
might be the best method to prepare for the exams. I found a website (
http://www.greenexamprep.com) that can provide a study guide, a set of
flash cards, and up to four online practice exams for a flat rate (I forget
how much it is off the top of my head). Do any of you have experience with
this particular company, and are their study guides and related materials
worth the cost?

2) The GBCI has a series of training seminars that supposedly prepare
people for the exams, but they are very expensive (e.g. there's a Level 200
"LEED Core Concepts and Strategies" course coming up next month in
Houston... this one-day course is $345 for USGBC members and $445 for
non-members). Are these preperation courses worth the money, or can one
successfully prepare for the LEED exams through self-study methods?

Please reply if you can answer these questions, or if you have any other
input/feedback re: the LEED AP certification process.

Thanks, in advance!

Regards,
M. Chad Crowhurst
mccrowhurst@...





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#9302 From: Christy Hitchens <chitchens1@...>
Date: Thu Sep 24, 2009 5:56 pm
Subject: Re: Questions for any LEED AP certified HREG members out there
hchristy31
Send Email Send Email
 
You also now need to show you were listed as a member of a green
building project in the last 3 years for the nre LEED AP exam.

Sent from my iPhone

#9303 From: jcargas@...
Date: Thu Sep 24, 2009 9:26 pm
Subject: Houston will double Texas' solar power capacity with new solar power plant
jpcargas
Send Email Send Email
 
 
Just in case you'll missed this morning's announcemet in the Chronical that the City of Houston has committed to purchasing the output of a 10 MW solar power plant to be built here in Houston, I have included the link below.  It is important to know that the price quoted is essentially static so that as inflation increases slightly each year, the true cost will decrease.  It is also worth noting that the City will be getting all of the Renewable Energy Credits generated.  This may become more important in the future if large consumers, like the City of Houston, are required to reduce their carbon footprint.  Houston will not need to spend tax payer dollars to purchase any credits. It will mearly go to the bank of credits this plant, and other projects, are generating.  Oh, and by the way, it is also good for Houston's air quality.
 

Solar power may shine for Houston

If council OKs $40 million deal, NRG will create largest such plant in Texas by July

By TOM FOWLER
HOUSTON CHRONICLE

 
 
 
I would appreciate hearing from HREG members what they think of the announcement.  If you want to make your comments public, you can do so on the above Chronicle web page below the story.

#9304 From: mkewert@...
Date: Thu Sep 24, 2009 11:43 pm
Subject: Re: Houston will double Texas' solar power capacity with new solar power plant
mkewert
Send Email Send Email
 
Thanks for the news.  It looks like we better get on and comment to counter the folks who have no use for new, clean energy sources.
----- Original Message -----
From: jcargas@...
To: hreg@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Thursday, September 24, 2009 4:26:10 PM GMT -06:00 Guadalajara / Mexico City / Monterrey
Subject: [hreg] Houston will double Texas' solar power capacity with new solar power plant

 

 
Just in case you'll missed this morning's announcemet in the Chronical that the City of Houston has committed to purchasing the output of a 10 MW solar power plant to be built here in Houston, I have included the link below.  It is important to know that the price quoted is essentially static so that as inflation increases slightly each year, the true cost will decrease.  It is also worth noting that the City will be getting all of the Renewable Energy Credits generated.  This may become more important in the future if large consumers, like the City of Houston, are required to reduce their carbon footprint.  Houston will not need to spend tax payer dollars to purchase any credits. It will mearly go to the bank of credits this plant, and other projects, are generating.  Oh, and by the way, it is also good for Houston's air quality.
 

Solar power may shine for Houston

If council OKs $40 million deal, NRG will create largest such plant in Texas by July

By TOM FOWLER
HOUSTON CHRONICLE

 
 
 
I would appreciate hearing from HREG members what they think of the announcement.  If you want to make your comments public, you can do so on the above Chronicle web page below the story.


#9305 From: mkewert@...
Date: Fri Sep 25, 2009 12:28 am
Subject: Fwd: Net-Zero Energy Homes Report and Press Conference
mkewert
Send Email Send Email
 
HREG members (especially business members),
Would one or more of you be willing to represent HREG at this press event next week 10/1?
It seems like a good idea.
Please let me know ASAP.
Thanks,
Mike

P.S. the attached report draft is pretty interesting

----- Forwarded Message -----
From: "Alejandro Savransky" <asavransky@...>
To: hreg@...
Sent: Wednesday, September 23, 2009 8:47:46 PM GMT -06:00 Guadalajara / Mexico City / Monterrey
Subject: Net-Zero Energy Homes Report and Press Conference

Dear Sir/Madam,

 

My name is Alejandro Savransky. I’m the field organizer for Environment Texas. We are a statewide, citizen-based, environmental advocacy organization that works for clean air, clean water, and open spaces. You can check out our website at www.environmenttexas.org.

 

We will be releasing a statewide report highlighting the potential of Net-Zero Energy Homes to Save Energy, Reduce Pollution and Cut Energy Bills. In order to do this, we will be holding press conferences across the state, including one in Houston, on Thursday, October 1st. I’ve done a few press events like this one in Houston, which have been very successful, below are some pictures of our work in Houston:

 

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=213992&id=506005430&l=c8106dc6c0

 

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=223324&id=506005430&l=cd9adaf371

 

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=204218&id=506005430&l=826683ecdc

 

I was wondering if the Houston Renewable Energy Group is interested in partnering with us to release the report. Having the local expertise that your group has would be great to highlight the issue and broaden our audience. I’d love to have someone from your organization as a speaker at the press conference.

 

Let me know as soon as you can if you are interested in joining with us in this event. Either way, I’d love to stay in touch with you; there will be other issues and opportunities for us to work together.

 

Thanks, and I hope to hear from you soon.

 

Alejandro Savransky

Field Organizer

Environment Texas and Environment Texas Research & Policy Center

815 Brazos, Suite 600

Austin, TX 78701

512-610-0084 (office)

954-257-7137 (cell)

512-479-0400 (fax)

asavransky@...

 


1 of 1 File(s)


#9306 From: "mccrowhurst" <mccrowhurst@...>
Date: Fri Sep 25, 2009 4:41 am
Subject: GE says, "Solar business is our 'next wind'"...
mccrowhurst
Send Email Send Email
 
I found an interesting article on CNN.com regarding GE's production of
"thin-film" solar panels. I'm not sure if this is a good or a bad thing with
regards to current and future costs of solar PV's.

http://www.cnn.com/2009/TECH/09/24/cnet.general.electric.solar.panels/index.html

Regards,
M. Chad Crowhurst

#9307 From: mkewert@...
Date: Sat Sep 26, 2009 4:51 am
Subject: Houston Solar Tour - Getting Media Coverage
mkewert
Send Email Send Email
 
Here is the link to the feature story on Kathleen and the Tour that appeared in yesterday's Houston Chronicle, Neighborhood Section (Bellaire, River Oaks and West U).  Way to go, Kathleen!



Houston Community Newspapers coverage of tour:


Houston Business Journal:




Make the most of this media coverage by posting links on web sites and passing along to customers, prospects and social media networks.



Thanks to our Tour Media Coordinator:

Pamela A. McConathy
Principal
Foresight Communications Group
713.416.4410
www.thinkforesight.com
blog: http://foresightcommunications.x.iabc.com
www.linkedin.com/in/pmcconathy
twitter: @pmcconathy


#9308 From: "MichaelE" <mkewert@...>
Date: Mon Sep 28, 2009 11:17 pm
Subject: Houston Solar Tour is 5 days away
mkewert
Send Email Send Email
 
You knew it was coming, but now it's almost here!
Saturday October 3, 9-11am Social at Discovery Green; 11-5 Tour

New HST website launched!  It has all the details.
www.houstonsolartour.org

We even have a re-branded interactive map that you can check out provided by the
Houston Solar Initiative.

Don't forget to tell friends and family to come out and enjoy the Social and the
Tour - October 3. We have over $1,500 in giveaways!

#9309 From: pebbaranski@...
Date: Mon Sep 28, 2009 7:55 pm
Subject: Re: Houston Solar Tour is 5 days away
naturewoman2009
Send Email Send Email
 
The web site looks great!  It says to visit the HREG table to sign up for the free bus tour.  Any chance we can get a preview of which sites will be included on the Metro bus tour? 
 

Pat Baranski
LEED Accredited Professional
(Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)
www.greenscenehouston.com
832-731-5292

Please consider the environment before printing this email.
 
In a message dated 9/28/2009 6:17:47 P.M. Central Daylight Time, mkewert@... writes:
 

You knew it was coming, but now it's almost here!
Saturday October 3, 9-11am Social at Discovery Green; 11-5 Tour

New HST website launched! It has all the details.
www.houstonsolartour.org

We even have a re-branded interactive map that you can check out provided by the Houston Solar Initiative.

Don't forget to tell friends and family to come out and enjoy the Social and the Tour - October 3. We have over $1,500 in giveaways!


#9310 From: El Sid <el.sid.713@...>
Date: Tue Sep 29, 2009 6:35 pm
Subject: Re: Houston Solar Tour is 5 days away
elcid1212
Send Email Send Email
 
4 days and counting.....
 
I wanted to give everyone Big Props who organized the event.
 
This going to be  great
 
Fun Fun Fun til daddy takes the T-bird away.....

On Mon, Sep 28, 2009 at 6:17 PM, MichaelE <mkewert@...> wrote:
 

You knew it was coming, but now it's almost here!
Saturday October 3, 9-11am Social at Discovery Green; 11-5 Tour

New HST website launched! It has all the details.
www.houstonsolartour.org

We even have a re-branded interactive map that you can check out provided by the Houston Solar Initiative.

Don't forget to tell friends and family to come out and enjoy the Social and the Tour - October 3. We have over $1,500 in giveaways!



#9311 From: "Randy" <redscott77092@...>
Date: Wed Sep 30, 2009 5:20 pm
Subject: Re: Houston will double Texas' solar power capacity with new solar power plant
redscott77092
Send Email Send Email
 
http://app1.kuhf.org/houston_public_radio-news-display.php?articles_id=125382833\
1

Houston Commissions State's Largest Solar Project

September 24, 2009

by: Laurie Johnson

The City of Houston plans to partner with NRG Texas to build the state's largest
solar farm. The 40-million dollar project will go online next year and provide
energy exclusively for city buildings. Laurie Johnson has more.

City of Houston General Services Director Issa Dadoush says NRG Texas won the
bid to build the state's largest solar project.

"What makes this project very, very unique, if you look at the state of Texas
and look at all the solar projects that we have and you add them all up together
cumulatively, they come out to about six megawatts. This project by itself is 10
megawatts, so this will almost double the capacity of what we have right now in
the state of Texas."

NRG Texas will pay the $40 million cost of building and operating the solar
farm.

The 10 megawatt facility in northwest Houston will house dozens of solar panels
that soak up the sun's rays.

Kevin Howell, the company's president, says the city will then enter into a
25-year agreement to purchase 100 percent of the energy generated from those
panels.

"We're going to sell that power back to the city, but we're going to do it as a
blended product so that they get their power regardless if the sun is shining or
not. So the way to think about that is when the sun is shining they'll be taking
all of the power off the solar array. If for some reason it's a cloudy or rainy
day, then we're going to supplement that commitment to them on our traditional
generation. That has the benefit of giving the city a steady supply of power and
also has blended the price down to make it more economic for them."

Dadoush says a third of the city's power already comes from wind energy. The
solar farm will represent an additional 1.5 percent of the city's energy
consumption.

"And I hope we get to a point where 50 percent of our load is coming from
renewable power. We need to think big. We need to think of the future. We can't
think of what's happening today, we have to set up plans that will be good for
the environment, at the same time that does make economic sense."

The deal with NRG has to pass muster in the city's fiscal affairs committee next
week. After that, councilmembers have to approve the agreement.

If all goes as planned, the solar farm will go online by July of next year.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

http://www.reuters.com/article/marketsNews/idUSN2445821820090924

Houston selects NRG for 10-MW solar project

HOUSTON, Sept 24 (Reuters) - The City of Houston has selected NRG Energy Inc
(NRG.N) to develop and operate a 10-megawatt solar project, the mayor's office
said on Thursday.
Under the agreement, the city will purchase the power under a 25-year,
fixed-price contract for 8.2 cents per kilowatt-hour the first year.

The price will change over time and is a blended rate that includes
higher-priced solar power and back-up power from NRG's nuclear, coal and natural
gas-fired generating portfolio for periods when solar power is unavailable.

The solar power price tag is 19.8 cents per kwh under the contract.

NRG will build the facility, expected to be operational next year, on 70 acres
(28 hectares) at its Wharton Generating Station in northwest Houston, according
to a release.

NRG, the second largest power producer in Texas, plans to use photovoltaic
modules manufactured by First Solar Inc (FSLR.O).

The agreement is subject to approval by the Houston City Council and the mayor.

Ten megawatts is roughly 6 percent of the city's annual consumption. One
megawatt serves about 500 homes in Texas.

Texas is already the leading wind-power state with installed capacity of 8,100
megawatts and a number of utilities and municipal utilities are exploring
options to add other renewable power resources, such as solar and biomass.

NRG is also working to develop a 92-MW solar thermal power plant in New Mexico
as part of its plan to have 500 MW of solar generation in its U.S. generating
fleet of 24,000 MW. (Reporting by Eileen O'Grady; Editing by Marguerita Choy)

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

http://industry.bnet.com/energy/10002134/nrg-energy-teams-with-first-solar-for-h\
ouston-project/

NRG Energy Teams With First Solar For Houston Project

First Solar has snagged its latest utility-scale solar deal, alongside NRG
Energy. The two will build a 10 megawatt plant that will supply the city
government of Houston, Texas with 1.5 percent of its energy needs, according to
the Houston Chronicle.

The plant itself will come in at about $40 million, with NRG doing the
financing. What's a little more interesting, though, is the model they're
working under, which will combine gas and solar generation.

Houston will be paying NRG only 8.2 cents per kilowatt-hour, says the Chron. But
NRG is primarily a coal-firing utility, with some natural gas plants. So the 8.2
cent figure appears to be an average for all the power that NRG is supplying
under the deal. The solar component is valued at 19.8 cents per kilowatt hour.

NRG is also setting its reputation as a utility that likes to strike numerous
small, innovative deals. In another example, the solar thermal plants that NRG
is building with eSolar are much smaller than those being built by companies
like Abengoa and BrightSource Energy. But eSolar uses a cutting-edge computer
guidance technology to direct the sun's rays that it says will make its small,
modular plants cheaper than the competition.

That's definitely the case with First Solar. Traditional photovoltaics are still
coming down in cost from 30 cents per kilowatt hour (or more). That figure is
falling fairly quickly, but NRG is obviously expecting to make a profit on less
than 20 cents with First Solar's thin-film panels.

First Solar may not yet be at grid parity, as an analyst claimed late last year,
but it's at least approaching the cost of the best solar thermal technology.

#9312 From: "Jim & Janet" <jhd1@...>
Date: Wed Sep 30, 2009 10:35 pm
Subject: Houston will double Texas' solar power capacity with new solar power plant
txsolarguy
Send Email Send Email
 
This is great news!
But my question is this, does the City of Houston plan to create a PPA [power purchase agreement] with NRG Texas? If so, this may set a record for such agreements in Texas. Most PPAs are not this large.
I hope that HREG readers will keep the rest of thus abreast on how this project progresses.
thanks
Jim Duncan
 
NRG Texas, LLC, through its subsidiaries, operates as a wholesale electric power generating company in the United States. As of September 30, 2004, it owned 60 generating units at 11 electric power generation facilities located in Texas; and also a 30.8% interest in the south Texas Project Electric Generating Station, a nuclear generating station with two 1,250 megawatts (MW) nuclear generating units. As of the above date, its net generating capacity was 14,153 MW, of which approximately 2,585 MW of gas-fired capacity was mothballed.....
 

----- Original Message -----
From: Randy
Sent: Wednesday, September 30, 2009 12:20 PM
Subject: [hreg] Re: Houston will double Texas' solar power capacity with new solar power plant

 

http://app1.kuhf.org/houston_public_radio-news-display.php?articles_id=1253828331

Houston Commissions State's Largest Solar Project

September 24, 2009

by: Laurie Johnson

The City of Houston plans to partner with NRG Texas to build the state's largest solar farm. The 40-million dollar project will go online next year and provide energy exclusively for city buildings. Laurie Johnson has more.

City of Houston General Services Director Issa Dadoush says NRG Texas won the bid to build the state's largest solar project.

"What makes this project very, very unique, if you look at the state of Texas and look at all the solar projects that we have and you add them all up together cumulatively, they come out to about six megawatts. This project by itself is 10 megawatts, so this will almost double the capacity of what we have right now in the state of Texas."

NRG Texas will pay the $40 million cost of building and operating the solar farm.

The 10 megawatt facility in northwest Houston will house dozens of solar panels that soak up the sun's rays.

Kevin Howell, the company's president, says the city will then enter into a 25-year agreement to purchase 100 percent of the energy generated from those panels.

"We're going to sell that power back to the city, but we're going to do it as a blended product so that they get their power regardless if the sun is shining or not. So the way to think about that is when the sun is shining they'll be taking all of the power off the solar array. If for some reason it's a cloudy or rainy day, then we're going to supplement that commitment to them on our traditional generation. That has the benefit of giving the city a steady supply of power and also has blended the price down to make it more economic for them."

Dadoush says a third of the city's power already comes from wind energy. The solar farm will represent an additional 1.5 percent of the city's energy consumption.

"And I hope we get to a point where 50 percent of our load is coming from renewable power. We need to think big. We need to think of the future. We can't think of what's happening today, we have to set up plans that will be good for the environment, at the same time that does make economic sense."

The deal with NRG has to pass muster in the city's fiscal affairs committee next week. After that, councilmembers have to approve the agreement.

If all goes as planned, the solar farm will go online by July of next year.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

http://www.reuters.com/article/marketsNews/idUSN2445821820090924

Houston selects NRG for 10-MW solar project

HOUSTON, Sept 24 (Reuters) - The City of Houston has selected NRG Energy Inc (NRG.N) to develop and operate a 10-megawatt solar project, the mayor's office said on Thursday.
Under the agreement, the city will purchase the power under a 25-year, fixed-price contract for 8.2 cents per kilowatt-hour the first year.

The price will change over time and is a blended rate that includes higher-priced solar power and back-up power from NRG's nuclear, coal and natural gas-fired generating portfolio for periods when solar power is unavailable.

The solar power price tag is 19.8 cents per kwh under the contract.

NRG will build the facility, expected to be operational next year, on 70 acres (28 hectares) at its Wharton Generating Station in northwest Houston, according to a release.

NRG, the second largest power producer in Texas, plans to use photovoltaic modules manufactured by First Solar Inc (FSLR.O).

The agreement is subject to approval by the Houston City Council and the mayor.

Ten megawatts is roughly 6 percent of the city's annual consumption. One megawatt serves about 500 homes in Texas.

Texas is already the leading wind-power state with installed capacity of 8,100 megawatts and a number of utilities and municipal utilities are exploring options to add other renewable power resources, such as solar and biomass.

NRG is also working to develop a 92-MW solar thermal power plant in New Mexico as part of its plan to have 500 MW of solar generation in its U.S. generating fleet of 24,000 MW. (Reporting by Eileen O'Grady; Editing by Marguerita Choy)

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

http://industry.bnet.com/energy/10002134/nrg-energy-teams-with-first-solar-for-houston-project/

NRG Energy Teams With First Solar For Houston Project

First Solar has snagged its latest utility-scale solar deal, alongside NRG Energy. The two will build a 10 megawatt plant that will supply the city government of Houston, Texas with 1.5 percent of its energy needs, according to the Houston Chronicle.

The plant itself will come in at about $40 million, with NRG doing the financing. What's a little more interesting, though, is the model they're working under, which will combine gas and solar generation.

Houston will be paying NRG only 8.2 cents per kilowatt-hour, says the Chron. But NRG is primarily a coal-firing utility, with some natural gas plants. So the 8.2 cent figure appears to be an average for all the power that NRG is supplying under the deal. The solar component is valued at 19.8 cents per kilowatt hour.

NRG is also setting its reputation as a utility that likes to strike numerous small, innovative deals. In another example, the solar thermal plants that NRG is building with eSolar are much smaller than those being built by companies like Abengoa and BrightSource Energy. But eSolar uses a cutting-edge computer guidance technology to direct the sun's rays that it says will make its small, modular plants cheaper than the competition.

That's definitely the case with First Solar. Traditional photovoltaics are still coming down in cost from 30 cents per kilowatt hour (or more). That figure is falling fairly quickly, but NRG is obviously expecting to make a profit on less than 20 cents with First Solar's thin-film panels.

First Solar may not yet be at grid parity, as an analyst claimed late last year, but it's at least approaching the cost of the best solar thermal technology.


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