Scott Sklar

November 5, 2009

Renewable Fuel Standard 2.0

by Scott Sklar

I have heard that some people are worried that renewable fuel standards or low-carbon fuel standards or simple market forces favoring biofuels will "cause people to rip up sustainable soybean fields and turn them into big switchgrass plantations." And that EPA...

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August 25, 2009

Clean Energy Scams and What To Do About Them

by Scott Sklar

As a clean energy installer, it really infuriates me when I read inflated and bogus marketing claims put forth by obvious scammers. What do you think we, as an industry, should do about this? Why don't you expose them? – Bill...

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July 7, 2009

House and Senate Move to Address Climate and Energy: Mixed Bag for Clean Energy

by Scott Sklar

The world of Washington, DC has been on overdrive to push Climate and Energy Legislation this past month. The House of Representatives narrowly passed the 1,000-plus page comprehensive climate and energy bill, the "American Clean Energy and Security Act (ACES)," by...

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June 2, 2009

Glass Half Full or Half Empty?

by Scott Sklar

The House Energy and Commerce Committee voted out the long awaited climate change bill, HR 2454, America's Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009, known as the "Waxman-Markey" bill. Everyone in and outside of Washington, DC has a different view --...

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April 17, 2009

Two Early Solar Lions - Extraordinary Men with Extraordinary Visions

by Scott Sklar

With a heavy heart, I write a farewell to not only two astoundingly great solar pioneers, but of two especially close friends and mentors. It may be hard for many of you to imagine that the modern solar industries began in...

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April 9, 2009

Why Are Renewable Energy Systems for Homeowners Still So Expensive?

by Scott Sklar

Can you explain to me and the readers why solar panels are so expensive? Why can we not get the cost of this energy down to US $0.15 per kWh while we're paying off the equipment? Why are we paying for...

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March 24, 2009

Why Don't We Bury More Power Lines?

by Scott Sklar

I was wondering if we changed the way we transmitted electricity from high voltage to high current, wouldn't that make it easier to bury the lines underground thereby mitigating the objection to spoiling the scenery for the new eco-power plants that...

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March 12, 2009

Goat Farming or Renewable Energy?

by Scott Sklar

I have not seen an analysis of what President Obama really plans to do for renewable energy. I would like to know. I had hoped to work on one renewable energy project before I retired to goat farming. So far it...

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December 18, 2008

One Last Chance: Starting a Green Business

by Scott Sklar

I live in Michigan with my family. We have owned our own construction business for over 10 years now, but with the economy we have watched everything we built slip away and like many others, we now find ourselves at a...

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December 3, 2008

Reading the Tea Leaves of an Economic Meltdown

by Scott Sklar

After the euphoria for winning federal tax incentives as part of an economic bailout package in October, the financial free fall has begun. Not only does the global and U.S. financial situation provide economic challenges, a series of other related problems...

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October 30, 2008

Time to Step Out - Walk the Talk

by Scott Sklar

I begin this column with a tad more care than I usually do, when I am angered about some policy or market issue. In a short time the American electorate has to make decisions on candidates. I have preached throughout my...

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September 30, 2008

Fuming in DC: Time to Draw the Line

by Scott Sklar

Congress just adjourned for the Rosh Hashanah holiday and we in the clean energy industries are without a tax credit extension. And I am hopping mad, as Congress will soon adjourn for the national elections....

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August 26, 2008

Mileage Costs of Plug-in Hybrids

by Scott Sklar

I continue to read with optimism the PHEV (plug-in hybrid vehicle) concept, especially the Chevy Volt. TESLA also put out a paper a while back (July, 2006) regarding its entry. My question is this: At US $0.10-0.12 a kWh from my...

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July 30, 2008

Great Leadership in the Face of a Cynical Power Structure

by Scott Sklar

While we are importing ever more petroleum and natural gas, fighting two wars in the Middle East region, experiencing changes in our global climate -- it's time to acknowledge and support four U.S. leaders who are trying to make a difference....

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June 17, 2008

National Electric Rate Comparisons

by Scott Sklar

Where can I find local and national electrical rate statistics? Specifically, I'm interested in the figures for average annual rate increases to help calculate the payback on renewable energy systems. Is anyone collecting this information? -- Alana N., Mount Vernon, WA...

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May 27, 2008

The Chemical Composition of Coal and Its Negative Impact

by Scott Sklar

My friend and I are unable to find the exact chemical composition of coal in either books or the Internet and were wondering if you could please help us? Also if you know any information that would help us out regarding...

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May 6, 2008

Is Ethanol To Blame for All Our Global Woes?

by Scott Sklar

The last two weeks ethanol has got more bad press then ever. But oil is at record high prices, so what's going on? Ethanol is getting more flack than OPEC. I hope you guys know that OPEC's mid-east fund made up...

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April 25, 2008

What Are They Thinking?

by Scott Sklar

A famous political columnist once labeled Washington, DC as the steering wheel of the nation -- not connected to anything. The recent Senate Finance Committee action sure seems that way to me....

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April 22, 2008

What is the Efficiency of Solar-Powered Fuel Cell Vehicles?

by Scott Sklar

I just read a news release on SMUD's PV installation providing hydrogen (H2) via electrolysis for a fleet of fuel-cell vehicles. I made a feeble attempt, using Wikipedia, to figure out how much solar energy was captured, how much H2 was...

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March 25, 2008

RPS Versus Cap and Trade

by Scott Sklar

Which would be of greater benefit: a cap and trade system to limit CO2 production or an RPS approach? Recently I have been reading about the resistance of large utilities to buy into a national RPS as a means of limiting...

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March 4, 2008

Pumped Storage To Back Up Renewable Energy

by Scott Sklar

Scott, I was informed by the lead engineer for the NY Power Authority that our hydropower systems like Niagara Falls operate at efficiencies over 95%. If this is true, wouldn't it make sense to use wind powered electrical generation to pump...

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February 29, 2008

Dueling Renewable Energy Studies - Read the Fine Print

by Scott Sklar

On February 21st, a story that made headline news was "Study Finds PV Economically Unfeasible, Even in Carbon-constrained Environment." According to this new study by Severin Borenstein, a professor at the University of California, Berkeley's Haas School of Business and director...

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January 8, 2008

The Units Commonly Applied to Renewable Energy Are WRONG!

by Scott Sklar

The units commonly applied to renewable energy are WRONG! It is wrong and tremendously misleading, albeit politically favorable to use PEAK POWER units to describe the capacity of energy conversion devices applied to diffuse and intermittent sources such as wind, solar,...

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December 17, 2007

Energy in Washington: Licking our Wounds for Another Fight

by Scott Sklar

Everyone in the renewable energy community tried to put a good face on it, but let's face it -- we have a second recent Energy Bill with little support for renewable energy and energy efficiency....

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December 5, 2007

Energy Bill Update: A Washington Insider's View

by Scott Sklar

The Congressional Democratic leadership will soon bring to the floor a comprehensive set of policies to drive clean energy into the coming decades which face the risk of a presidential veto by including $21 billion in tax incentives paid for by...

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November 13, 2007

What Will the Future Hold for Marine Energy Technologies?

by Scott Sklar

I've heard a lot about underwater turbine windows to harness the kinetic energies of the earth's ocean currents, which have the potential to create enough electricity to supply world demand. Supposedly, the underwater grids could be routed to all countries in...

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November 13, 2007

Lessons from The Political Process: Energy Bill Woes

by Scott Sklar

One thing you learn in Washington, D.C., is that politics is never predictable. After a nine year career as an aide in the US Senate and over 25 years as a registered renewable energy lobbyist, I am still always amazed at...

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October 23, 2007

What's the Difference Between Solar Energy and Solar Power?

by Scott Sklar

Scott, I'm confused about the use of the terms solar energy and solar power. Is solar energy both a type of energy and a type of technology? Is solar power both a type of power and a type of technology? It...

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October 9, 2007

Is it Possible to Direct Solar-Heated Air to the Condenser of a Heat Pump?

by Scott Sklar

Would there be any problem with using a solar air collector or green house to pre-heat the airstream that feeds the standard heat pump condensing unit? Wouldn't this keep it running at very high COP's? - Tom B., Seattle, WA...

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October 8, 2007

Bold Moves for Renewables in 110th Congress

by Scott Sklar

While the renewable energy industries have been focused on extending or expanding the investment and production tax credits, adopting a renewable energy portfolio standard (which passed the House of Representatives), and addressing access issues from interconnection rules to accelerating clean energy...

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August 8, 2007

House Energy Bill: A Portfolio of Benefits for Clean Energy

by Scott Sklar

While the national media focused mostly on the Renewable Energy Standard (RES) approved by the U.S. House of Representatives this past weekend, there are many more pieces to the entire energy package that have important implications for clean energy....

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July 31, 2007

How Can I Develop a Portfolio of Renewable Energy Options?

by Scott Sklar

Is there a list of national companies that take a multiple approach to home renewable energy systems? I am looking for companies that can assess a home's energy needs and the possibilities available in terms of wind, water, sun, geothermal etc....

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July 17, 2007

Where is the Data on Climate Change?

I thought I'd ask you for help in an online debate with some sharp folks who don't believe we are warming the earth. What's the most convincing science you know of on this? --Bob W, Pepe'ekeo, Hawaii...

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July 10, 2007

Solar Lighting for Community Development

by Scott Sklar

In Spain, we are faced with redevelopment of 'urbanization.' Our resident's association would like to propose low level, renewable energy street lighting (solar power) be installed. I understand that the Spanish Government will provide grants for renewable energy solutions.... [Can] you...

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June 19, 2007

What Is the Best Way to Finance Solar Power for Home Improvements?

by Scott Sklar

With all of your past experience with solar energy, how did most of the successful roof-mounted hot water systems get financed? Would the homeowner take out a second loan or refinance his/her home? --Monte L., Middleton, WI...

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June 12, 2007

Will Incentives Ever Reward a Whole-System Approach?

by Scott Sklar

What do you think the chances are that the energy tax credits and rebates will be extended, enlarged and set up in a way that rewards a whole house approach rather than individual items? - Frank P, Douglas, MA...

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May 22, 2007

Is There a Reliable Source for Renewable Energy Information?

by Scott Sklar

As a non-professional investor, I want legitimate and honest up-to-date info on today's renewable energy world. There are many companies making claims just to get your attention; it's so hard to find honest sites for legitimate information. What do you suggest?...

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April 24, 2007

How Does Energy Efficiency Relate to Renewable Energy?

by Scott Sklar

There is a lot happening in renewable energy right now, which is great and what we need. But what about conservation? ... Are there any studies showing how much we could save and at what cost if we insulated all the...

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April 3, 2007

Seeking Careers in the Renewable Energy Field

by Scott Sklar

If a person wanted to make a career designing residential and some commercial projects, what would be your suggestion as a starting point? In my area, we receive both good wind and periods of good sunshine for developing systems that employ...

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March 6, 2007

How Do Costs Compare between Renewable and Traditional Energy Sources?

by Scott Sklar

Power utilities/producers continually plan to meet future power supply options using a mixture of various technologies. These technologies are evolving daily. The cost of renewable energy needs to compete with traditional options for utilities to buy-in. Can you tell me what...

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February 13, 2007

How Economical is the Energy of Hydrogen?

by Scott Sklar

I have heard that the economics of using hydrogen fuel cells in the automotive industry just isn't feasible as more energy is needed to isolate H2 from natural compounds than can be recovered from its use. Is this true? --Pete L.,...

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January 3, 2007

What is the Right Size for a Solar Thermal Collector?

by Scott Sklar

What size collector is necessary for thermal energy storage in solar air heaters? What is the practical approach to use this system for heating one's own house? -- S. Ranjit, Punjab, India...

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December 27, 2006

Where's the Change in U.S. Energy Policy?

by Scott Sklar

I have been watching a Renewable Energy Tax Credit Bill, S.2677 and HR.5206, which increases the Solar Energy Tax Credit to $2,000 per kilowatt with no cap and extends the Sunset Provision to 2015. There seems to be new co-sponsors every...

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December 20, 2006

What Does the Future Hold for Solar Energy Farms?

by Scott Sklar

Is anyone developing solar energy farms? I live next to a city with its own municipal utility for electricity and I have a south-facing hillside that could be used for a solar energy source. I have read about energy development in...

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December 12, 2006

What about Solar Thermal Systems?

by Scott Sklar

Please tell me about solar air heaters. There are commercial ones that are built into walls, retrofits for residences and window models. - James G., Bandon, OR...

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December 5, 2006

Shouldn't Renewable Energy Get Tax Breaks Too?

by Scott Sklar

Do you have a list of tax breaks that oil companies receive? Example: They don't pay tax on the first 15% of their profits. Are there others for drilling etc.? It seems that all renewable energy enterprises should get at least...

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December 1, 2006

Can a Solar Chimney Compensate for Heat Loss?

by Scott Sklar

I was wondering about my chimney. I have a fireplace with an insert and the chimney is brick about 10 feet wide and facing south, exposed to the outside in Tacoma, Washington. I keep wondering what would be a good plan...

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November 22, 2006

Balancing Solar Gain and Thermal Storage

by Scott Sklar

Two homeowners -- Tom of Stillwater, Minnesota, and Jan J of New York City -- both asked me related questions about the effects of passive solar gain and the possible diminishing returns of solar thermal mass in their homes....

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November 14, 2006

Environmental Footprints of Renewable Energy vs. Nuclear

by Scott Sklar

A senior nuclear power exec claimed at a recent seminar that the environmental footprint of a nuclear power station was 100 times smaller than an onshore windfarm. (no sizes given unfortunately). What are the comparable eco-footprints? -- Polly H., London, United...

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October 31, 2006

Algae as a Biofuel

by Scott Sklar

Recently a politician informed me of an energy source I was completely unaware of, algae as a biofuel. I did some more research on it and was amazed to find how much more potential algae has other than any other crop...

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October 19, 2006

Wind Turbines: Vertical vs. Horizontal Axis

by Scott Sklar

Why are the wind propellers of wind generators always in the vertical position and never horizontal? It would seem they could be stacked horizontally, could be enclosed easily and would be more aesthetic for building tops. -- Bill V., San Clemente,...

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October 13, 2006

Is Nuclear Energy Renewable Energy?

by Scott Sklar

I just read that President Bush at a renewable energy conference, said, " Nuclear power is renewable." He also said coal could be clean. Is nuclear energy renewable and can coal ever be clean? -- Donna R., Keene, NH...

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October 3, 2006

Does Reducing the 'Urban Heat-Island Effect' Help Renewable Energy?

by Scott Sklar

The world has to adopt a cost for emissions. Could you address changes that help us reduce energy absorption of sunrays? I am thinking of white roof and walls on buildings. White coated asphalt or concrete roads. Reflective cars like white...

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September 19, 2006

Does Fog in Bay Area Interfere with Solar Power?

by Scott Sklar

I live in the San Francisco area, does the fog interfere with using solar? -- several readers...

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September 12, 2006

Why Isn't Butanol More Prevalent?

by Scott Sklar

I was wondering if butanol is a more efficient fuel than ethanol and, if so, why don't we hear more about it? -- Robert M., Kansas City, MO...

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September 6, 2006

Advancing Renewable Energy Storage Technologies

by Scott Sklar

Renewables' success seems to depend on whether the energy produced can be stored for periods when renewables are unavailable. While there are many candidate techniques for this I hear of no research into it as a topic, and your excellent column...

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August 31, 2006

Is a Tankless Water Heater System a Wise Choice?

by Scott Sklar

I am researching tankless hot water heaters to replace my traditional unit. My house has all electric, no gas. Basically, are electric tankless systems efficient? -- Brian D., New Market, MD....

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August 15, 2006

Can the mounting of small wind turbines directly on roof structures be effective?

by Scott Sklar

Where does the wind industry stand on installing wind turbine units on the roofs of high-rise buildings, condos and residential units? And have there been any projects completed to date that would show it's a profitable venture? Terry F, Ontario -...

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August 7, 2006

Will Zoning Laws Prevent Me from Putting Up a Solar Array?

by Scott Sklar

I live in a condominium complex and our association has raised our Homeowners Association Dues many times over the last few years. I made a suggestion to the Board about the benefits of our community purchasing solar panels and installing them...

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August 1, 2006

As a Consumer, How Can I Influence My Co-op Electric Utility?

by Scott Sklar

How can I influence my co-op utility company to stop embracing coal, to believe renewable energy has a place in their power purchased portfolio and to start implementing and offering such programs as 'voluntary load reduction' programs? - Bryan P, Colorado...

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July 12, 2006

Ethanol from Corn, Sure. But from Artichokes?

by Scott Sklar

I live in the Phoenix Arizona metropolitan area where we have a lot of sunshine, hot days in the summer, and warm days the rest of the year. Do you think it would be practical to grow Jerusalem artichokes, and harvest...

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June 29, 2006

What's Up with Methane?

by Scott Sklar

I'm a retired electrician and 30 years ago I did the instrument work on a coal to gas plant in Pittsburgh, Pa. It was nearly pollution free and made methane, which is very clean burning. Why after 30 years do I...

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June 13, 2006

How Can Schools Lead by Example?

by Scott Sklar

I am a senior at Whatcom Community College in Bellingham Washington. I have gotten together with one of my professors to investigate the possibility of incorporating solar (or alternative energies) into our public schools. I believe that for this new technology...

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April 25, 2006

The Solar Subsidy Crutch or an Uneven Playing Field?

by Scott Sklar

Critics of solar energy often cite the subsidies it requires to even come close to being cost effective with utility provided energy. How do you respond to such criticism? Specifically, can you quantify the subsidies that are provided to coal, natural...

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April 18, 2006

So is Ethanol a Net-Energy Producer or Not?

by Scott Sklar

Controversy surrounds the use of ethanol, because, with certain exceptions, it is not regarded as a net energy producer. Could you please comment? ESB, Irvine, CA...

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April 13, 2006

Should coal be used to create ethanol? Could ethanol itself be used instead?

by Scott Sklar

Rather than burning dirty coal to power ethanol plants, why not use this same ethanol to make more ethanol? Is this a good idea or a bad idea? What are the pro and cons? -- Kenneth M., Rockford, IL...

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April 4, 2006

How Can We Get Solar Components and Assistance in Nigeria?

by Scott Sklar

How best do we get international agencies, organization, manufacturers, vendors, and individuals to be part of our developmental effort through financial assistance or donation of solar components? - Thanks, Ona O., Lagos, Nigeria (The small system I use at home as an alternative...

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March 22, 2006

Will Biodiesel Get a Boost from the New EPA Diesel Mandates?

by Scott Sklar

Will the EPA mandated change to Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel fuel next October provide any stimulus for biodiesel in the U.S.? - Thomas S., Boston, MA...

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March 14, 2006

How Can One Push for Renewable Energy in Developing Countries like Tanzania?

by Scott Sklar

How can I convince our country of Tanzania, which is blessed with sunshine almost 365 days a year, to go for renewable energy -- especially solar power? It is shameful to see that we don't use the renewable good energy we...

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March 6, 2006

Is there a New Case for Non-Conventional Hydropower Technologies?

by Scott Sklar

Sure there's the old hydropower technologies that we're all familiar with but I believe it could be more efficient to use the water power to compress air, using the principle of hydraulic air compression. The compressed air would be used in...

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March 2, 2006

How Does the US Compare to Europe with Biofuels?

by Scott Sklar

Given the high gas pump prices that have prevailed for years in Europe, have the Europeans gone significantly further than the US in producing alternative fuels (including methanol from coal)? If not, why not? Michael C, New York, NY...

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February 21, 2006

Are Solar Technologies Viable in Northerly, Cooler Climates?

by Scott Sklar

I live in southwest Michigan and am interested in PV solar and solar water heating. But considering the sun only shines practically half of the year in this northerly state, how viable are either option for me as a homeowner. Should...

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February 15, 2006

The Karanja Plant for Biomass Purposes?

by Scott Sklar

I wish people would get away from talking PV and wind, or even reforestation and improved stoves. There's room for all those but liquid fuels seem to be most important and in my region of India, karanja was chosen over other...

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February 9, 2006

How did the silicon shortage situation catch so many by surprise?

by Scott Sklar

Dear Scott Sklar, I am having a hard time understanding how this so called "shortage" of raw materials used in the production of photovoltaic cells, manifested itself in the PV industry so quickly and with very little warning. It would almost seem...

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February 2, 2006

Solar PV: Buy Now or Wait for a Better Deal Later?

by Scott Sklar

Dear Scott, I'm seriously considering adding PV to my passive solar home. I've heard a rumor that new, more efficient PV technology is on the horizon. Should I wait a few years to get the most effective PV system? Evette H., Chapel...

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January 16, 2006

Federal Solar Tax Credit: Do I Focus on the Credit or the Cap?

by Scott Sklar

I'm struggling to decide whether to focus my solar water heating system marketing with a highlight on the 30% tax credit as opposed to a $2,000 figure. Frankly I would love to charge $6,700 per residential SHW install, but wanted your...

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December 1, 2005

Is 'Waste-to-Energy' Really a Renewable Energy Process?

by Scott Sklar

I recently saw notice of a trash-to-energy plant being proposed for construction in Ireland. It said this project was eligible for renewable energy credits. Do you believe this to be true? I have never heard trash considered in this category. Jim...

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October 27, 2005

Why can't we get a standard net-metering policy across the entire country?

by Scott Sklar

The Net-Metering standards in every area are very different. It's by Utility here in Arizona. Some only give avoided cost of about 1/3 the real cost. For time of day they want extra for special meters, and some zero out each...

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October 14, 2005

What is the current largest single wind turbine ever built?

by Scott Sklar

What is the current largest single wind turbine ever built? I know of a GE turbine circa 2003 that is rated for 3.6 MW, but I thought there were offshore turbines planned as large as 100 MW for a single turbine?...

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September 29, 2005

What are some opportunities in renewable energy for small investors like me...

by Scott Sklar

I am a small business owner. I am looking to invest in the renewable energy sector. I would like to know more about the business opportunities for small investors in this sector. Sarah O, Frisco, TX...

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September 21, 2005

How Can Homes and Businesses Cope with Rising Energy Prices?

by Scott Sklar

I am a high school senior in New England. A recent "Current Events" project at school involved reading news articles on the rising costs of home heating oil, gasoline and natural gas. So I was wondering what would you first recommend...

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September 12, 2005

House Resale Value Rises with Solar Installations

by Scott Sklar

I have been looking into adding solar panels to my house. I would like to for the environmental benefits, but I know that my wife is concerned about what this will do to the property value of our house. Do you...

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September 6, 2005

After Katrina: Rebuild with Solar?

by Scott Sklar

Should the US government make a policy to use solar energy products to re-build Katrina-affected states? --Pradeep M, Chhattisgarh, India...

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August 16, 2005

Could photosynthesis be harnessed for electrical power?

by Scott Sklar

I was wondering if anyone is exploring the possibility of being able to extract electrical energy directly from trees? They do such a great job using photosynthesis, I thought someone might find a way to tap into this for energy. There's...

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July 29, 2005

What do you think about so-called surplus energy homes?

by Scott Sklar

We are producing with a standard PV module electricity while at the same time using the thermal heat during operation, we can make a household independent from any use of fossil fuel. Together with a well-insulted long-term thermal energy storage tank,...

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July 19, 2005

What are some of the best books about renewable energy?

by Scott Sklar

I want to learn a lot more about renewable energy. Could you tell me the best technical books and books on the economics of renewables. I'm looking both for survey type books written at an undergraduate level and more technical books...

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July 12, 2005

Supplementing Radiant Heating with Solar Thermal

by Scott Sklar

I live in upstate New York. I have an existing 1200 sq ft hot water radiant heated area. It is well insulated. I have a relatively large south facing roof area available. I need information on solar heating to supplement and/or...

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July 5, 2005

How do I find a green energy provider in my area?

by Scott Sklar

I'm trying to find a green energy provider in my area to switch to. I would like to take the full plunge into 95% good, if you know what I'm saying. Is there a website or a contact that might help...

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June 29, 2005

How does a consumer shop around for the best equipment?

by Scott Sklar

Why isn't there a who's who when it comes to solar, wind, hydro power equipment that's based on superior service, technology, cost, guarantees etc.? And furthermore, who are the movers and shakers in these industries and why are they considered the...

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June 17, 2005

How do I find the right installer for a solar thermal system?

by Scott Sklar

Where do I find distributors of residential solar water heating equipment for my State? And if I'm going this route, is there any advantage to installing a rooftop solar water heater at the time that you are replacing your roof? - Jonathon...

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May 31, 2005

Has the Sheen Been Blown Off Wind?

by Scott Sklar

With recent Exxon Mobil ads relegating wind to less than one percent of future energy use and recent introduction of legislation to restrict wind farms by Senators Alexander and Warner, has the sheen been blown off wind? - Haley R, Winchester,...

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May 24, 2005

Could Renewables Help with Low-Income Heating Assistance?

by Scott Sklar

Many low-come individuals are on fuel assistance. The elderly and people with disabilities who needed such assistance struggled to keep warm this past winter waiting to get on the program. According to a magazine article, the fuel assistance program costs a...

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May 2, 2005

Will the Cost of Silicon Keep PV Prices High?

by Scott Sklar

I was wondering about the high cost of silicon and whether that will prevent the price drop in Solar residential systems that everyone is counting on. Given the high demand any significant price drop appears unlikely. Do you know of any...

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April 12, 2005

Can renewables even keep up with ballooning energy demands?

by Scott Sklar

The Chairman and CEO of Exxon Mobil Corporation, said that by 2030, "the combination of economic growth and population increases can be expected to lead to a rise in primary energy demand of about 50 percent worldwide." Renewables, he says, will...

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April 4, 2005

Will Renewable Energy Use Catch-up to Energy Demands?

by Scott Sklar

Would you say that the world renewables energy is now in line with world energy growth? Are we moving forward to a global influence - standing still - or still not catching up in your opinion? Tony, UK...

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March 22, 2005

Where would we find recycled building material suppliers?

by Scott Sklar

We are looking to retire in New England, and are interested in a modular home using recycled materials, where would we find suppliers? Husband and Wife NH...

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March 15, 2005

Where Can I get Entrepreneurial Training for Clean Energy Business?

by Scott Sklar

I once operated a business supplying electricity from diesel generating sets in the third world and am now interested in receiving training to enable me become an entrepreneur generating electricity from renewable and environment friendly. I would be grateful if you...

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February 28, 2005

How Do I Figure Out the Electric Load for my Appliances?

by Scott Sklar

I am very interested to install a small solar system that would power our lights and water pump. We live in a new log home and use a wood-burning stove to heat the upstairs, and back up the stove with an...

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February 28, 2005

Are There Ship-Based Marine Energy Projects?

by Scott Sklar

Given that economies of scale ought to apply to ship-based or some kind of floating wind-driven electricity or hydrogen generation, why isn't there more interest in this as an off shore (and out of sight) solution? It seems to me that...

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February 15, 2005

Which Field Should I Study for an RE Career?

by Scott Sklar

I am currrently an undergrad in Electrical Engineering, and I just switched majors from Materials Engineering because I felt like I would have a better knowledge of renewable energy. Was this a good move? Christa I, Birmingham, Alabama...

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February 15, 2005

How Viable is a Solar Trough?

by Scott Sklar

I have been hearing on and off about the Solar Tower project, first in India and then in Australia, which envisages the construction of a gigantic 1000 m tall chimney around a green house. Is this concept viable and has there...

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February 1, 2005

Which solar techologies are big in the market?

by Scott Sklar

I am interested in a sales/marketing career in solar (photovoltaics). What are your views on the technologies that will emerge into the market place that will show the quantum leap in competitiveness that is required for solar to be less dependent...

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February 1, 2005

How do I get a renewable energy industry job?

by Scott Sklar

I have a technical background and I want to know how I get an ultimate job in the renewable energy industry? Ian P. Agoura Hills, California...

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November 24, 2004

How do I Experiment with Solar?

by Scott Sklar

I am a middle school student at the Colegio Atid in Mexico City. I would like to ask your expert opinion on the subject (solar energy), which is the topic I am investigating for our school's upcoming Science Fair - what...

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November 24, 2004

Can Renewable Energy Compete?

by Scott Sklar

I just got in an argument with someone who said that renewable energy should just compete in a free market like every other industry and stop getting government and state subsidies. I wanted to disagree with him, but I didn't have...

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November 24, 2004

Hot Air or Hot Water?

by Scott Sklar

I am interested in building a straw bale studio on my property and would like to heat the slab with hot air from a solar collector. Our climate is very mild, some frosts but no snow. Could you give me information...

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Articles by Scott Sklar: 106

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