First Solar in China

Interesting Washington Post article on China highlighting the challenge of US businesses operating there. Doesn't mean we should now embrace the Homer Simpson philosophy of "never try" but it does reflect the need for greater, sustained engagement with the largest energy consumer and greenhouse gas (GHG) emitter in the world.

DoD and DoE work together in perfect harmony

In the aftermath of a failed climate change bill, it's good to see the Department of Energy and the Department of Defense working together. On Tuesday, the two departments announced a Memorandum of Understanding "to accelerate clean energy innovation and enhance national energy security."

Wind and the West

I just came across this article from the NY Times on a recent study published by the Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Lab (NREL). Essentially it debunks the notion that renewables can not significantly displace conventional power sources.

It's also interesting to note that a record breaking amount of wind energy capacity was installed last year in the US. And while a recent industry study projects a positive mid-term outlook, "2010 marks the first time since 2004 that the U.S. wind industry will not surpass the previous year's growth level."

It makes you wonder what's needed to increase and sustain long-term growth? Hmmm, right, regulatory certainty and significant financial flows.