heat as a green solution

Study: Car exhaust heat may power vehicles CARDIFF, Wales (UPI) -- Welsh scientists are investigating the possible use of heat generated from automobile exhausts to provide a greener power supply for vehicles.
Cardiff University Professor Mike Rowe and colleagues are researching thermoelectric generation -- employing thermocouples to convert heat into electricity. The scientists said such conversion technology is used in controlling central heating systems or refrigerator temperatures and might be able to generate electricity from the waste heat in vehicles.
"The main interest in cars is to decrease (fuel) consumption and reduce CO2 emissions," said Rowe. "If you can utilize the exhaust heat, you could replace the alternator. This would provide a 5 percent saving in fuel straightaway."
Although U.S. auto makers have expressed interest in such technology, Rowe said interest has been lacking in the United Kingdom.
"Thermoelectric generation is a green solution," he added. "It can in many instances cost less than solar energy. It has huge future potential, yet it has been neglected to date in the United Kingdom."

SkySails - Turn Wind into Profit

SkySails - Turn Wind into Profit: "W I N D P O W E R U S E D P R O F I T A B L Y



It's a simple fact: wind is cheaper than oil and the most cost-effective offshore energy source. Yet, despite its attractive saving potential, it is not presently being used by cargo ships - for a simple reason: so far no sailing system has met the requirements of commercial shipping.

SkySails is now offering a wind propulsion system based on large towing kites, which, for the first time, meets the requirements of shipping companies.

By using the SkySails-System, a ship‘s fuel costs can be reduced by 10- 35% on annual average, depending on wind conditions. Under optimal wind conditions, fuel consumption can temporarily be reduced by up to 50%."