Reserachers have devised a new system that encompasses a grid of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) placed on the bottom of the river, the undulating movement of which will generate electricity. The electrical current generated would pass to substations along the river bank, ultimately charging a group of batteries. The city is looking to harness enough power from the river to cover 20-40% of its needs.

Very nice, right? If areas with bodies of moving water could do the same, the world would probably be greener. And come to think of it, the world is mostly made up of water. So if we all knew how to hone the power from such, just think how we all would be living in a better Earth.

Post from: Blisstree

Power From The Water

William lives completely off the grid. He collects rainwater via his roof gutters and filters it for his water. He has a septic system. Solar panels placed in the windows of his home juice up a rechargeable battery for limited electrical needs and he uses propane, kerosene and wood for heating in the winter. He stores his perishable food in the cool basement, never watches television but does listen to a battery-powered radio. Absolutely no wires or pipes connect his home to the world at large.

From an article in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette…

A self-proclaimed arch enemy of utility companies, he said, he stands determined to show the world how to stretch a dollar, reduce reliance on foreign oil and live the simple life. He also vows to fight for the right to refuse to use any public utilities.

And if the power company wasn’t enough of a hassle, officials from the local public sewer system are also insisting that he connect his home to the sewers. The threat of a lien on his property if he refuses is being held over his head.

You’d think that once you made it to the age of 76, you’d have earned the right to be left alone if you weren’t bothering anyone else. I hope William wins his chance soon.

Here’s that article from the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

[via The Good Human]

Post from: Blisstree

Off-the-Gridder Fighting ‘The Man’

As part of the academic curriculum in renewable and sustainable energy, Solar Scholars offers undergraduate and graduate students an opportunity for in-depth, hands-on study, training and research in the application of photovoltaic (PV) solar technology. The program offers funding and incentives to enable students to design, build, operate and maintain a solar system of significant impact on their campus, for which they will receive academic credit.

Successful student applicants get financial sponsorship to attend a training and certification workshop on applied photovoltaics and the participating schools will be able to offer a state-of-the-art, Internet-based academic curriculum on solar and other clean energy methods.

Those participating partner schools include Bucknell University, Clarion University, Mercyhurst College, Messiah College, The Pennsylvania State University, and Villanova University.

Check out the Sustainable Energy Fund web site here for more details.

[via Renewable Energy Access]

Post from: Blisstree

Pennsylvania’s Solar Scholars Program