Nurturing Clean Tech Companies in Austin, Texas; Supporting Renewables in the Farm Bill

<p>I feel better about bio fuels today than I did yesterday.&nbsp; This podcast came in at the same time as my National Geographic mag, who had a great article about biofuels called &quot;Growing Fuel&quot;.&nbsp; While the conversion of corn based fuels is a bit gray instead of green, the other options such as sugar cane show promise.&nbsp; Now all we have to do is convince people in other countries not to abuse human beings in the process of growing biomass fuels.</p><p>&nbsp;In regard to National Geographic article, finally renewable energy is getting serious about transportation fuel issues.&nbsp; Our transportation fuel needs greatly eclipse our heat and light needs, which represent a small fraction of the energy we consume.&nbsp; Dr. Duncan and Dr. Youngquist at Berkley ran about screaming &quot;The sky is falling!&quot; in regard to energy losses in the future, while the rest of us look for solutions.&nbsp; At 50 plus years of age I personally still hold great hope for mankind.</p>

<p>Regarding the gas guzzling SUV's, John, I agree almost completely with you.&nbsp; The flip side, however, is that in all my travels, with the exception of those excursions to CA, I see no place else with more Pruis hybrids than Austin.&nbsp; I know that it is little comfort but it is something I continue to notice, especially since buying my own Prius a few months ago.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Not really on the topic&nbsp; of&nbsp; Austin, but&nbsp; I&nbsp; am reminded by your guests comments about home energy generation, of the&nbsp; solar tower...&nbsp; I wondered if such a technology has been scaled down for home use, ie the roof structure being converted to reap energy for the home. </p>