Department of Energy commits $2 Billion for Solar
In Sunday's Presidential radio address Obama announced that the US Department of Energy would commit $2 billion to two solar companies in an ongoing effort to build a clean energy economy. The hopes is that the solar stimulus will create thousands of jobs.
The bulk of the funds will go to Abengoa Solar to build the world's largest solar power plant in Arizona. This plant will be the first large scale solar project in the US that will be capable of storing its energy for future use. The 280-MW station is expected to create over 1,600 construction jobs , supply electric power to 70,000 homes as well as cut carbon emissions.
$400 million will be given to Abound Solar Manufacturing for two solar projects to be based in Colorado and Indiana. While the Colorado plant is currently in operation, the Indiana plant will be built in an empty Chrysler factory. Around 840 MW worth of solar panels are likely to be manufactured at these plants and employment to over 2000 construction workers and 1,500 jobs are anticipated.
Obama said that the projects would help to accelerate the economic revival by doubling the use of renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power and thereby create local employment and give hope to the people of America.
Cooking oil is being purified and used as jet fuel.
The US military is turning to biofuels for the future searching for ways to limit dependence on foreign oil.
Solar power is becoming a more viable option for the masses these days as companies such as Green Mountain and Google are promoting huge public service movements on the solar energy platform.
Despite the softening world economies wind energy projects have remained popular and in demand. Global wind turbine markets have weathered recent economic storms with remarkable aplomb.
Google is making a stand for the environment and backing a large green energy project.