All around the world researches teams are working on finding new ways to reduce battery consumptions of our devices, such as phones, mp3 players, etc. Here we make a summary of most interesting techonologies that could be soon used (or already are available) to the end user!

• In Texas, a team of researchers has created a new material that can use the audio signal created by your voice to create enough electricity to power a cell phone. According to them, a certain type of piezoelectric material at 21 nanometers in diameter, it can increase the energy production of that material by 100 percent. The technology could be applied to cell phones, and other low-powered electronics devices. Such devices could then operate without a battery.

• A U.K.-based company called MotionTouch introduced a new charger today that can recharge phones through solar energy. The Powcell — initially designed for iPhones and certain BlackBerries — is a sleeve that fits around the sides and back of the phone. It has an internal battery that is always charging when exposed to light. It can be attached to a phone to recharge a dead battery or continuously charge the phone. According to MotionTouch, the Powcell is designed for each phone and is styled accordingly to match the design of the handset. MotionTouch says that it will build Powcells for other handsets depending on demand. By using solar energy, the Powcell could help to reduce the dependency on chargers that must be plugged into electrical outlets.

• A company called M2E Power is developing technology that will harness the kinetic movement of the human body to charge electronic devices, including cellular phones. The charging station would be a small device worn on the body. Whenever the wearer moves, such as walking or running, the movement will create and store electrical energy in a battery. The battery can then be used to charge or power a mobile device. M2E Power suggests that 6 hours worth of activity could provide 30 to 60 minutes of talk time. The company expects to have the device to market in 2009.

• Nokia has recently announced that a research team is working on a wireless energy harvesting mechanism, which captures ambient radio waves and turns it into electrical current. Radio waves are emitted by all sorts of electronics, and Nokia’s research is focused on a way to harvest this energy as it hits the phone’s battery. Their goal is about to capture about 50 milliwatts of power for “ambient charging” — which would at least be enough to top off the battery while the phone is off. Unfortunately, right now their current prototypes are only pulling down 3 to 5 milliwatts, and many in the industry are convinced it can’t be done. To be honest, we’re not totally sure were comfortable with the thought that there’s enough RF floating around to make this even theoretically possible, but as we slowly come to grips with our own mortality, we imagine we’d gladly pay an extra $70 or so for the privilege of never having to charge our phone again. Nokia itself isn’t over promising: they plan on supplementing this juice with solar power, and thinks it’ll be three or four years until it makes its way into a handset — probably around the time your existing iPhone contract dries up.

1 Postdoc: evolutionary immune genetics of mate choice (ref: 13/2009) The postdoc will co-ordinate the network, study the MHC of both study
species and co-ordinate lab and field work in Berlin. The successful candidate will have a PhD in evolutionary genetics, zoology or related
disciplines, a strong background in behavioural ecology, genetics and evolution, excellent knowledge of statistics, organisational skills, and
a strong publication record. Experience in evolutionary immune genetics, particularly MHC, olfaction, and mammalian mating systems will be an
advantage.

1 Phd: mate choice and olfaction in bats (ref: 14/2009) This project will focus on mate choice mechanisms in the harem-polygynous social system of the greater sac-winged bat (Saccopteryx
bilineata) by combining behavioural, immunological and genetic work. In colonies of Saccopteryx bilineata territorial males each defend a group of females,
despite their incapability to monopolise the reproductive success with harem females. During courtship, males display scent compounds from pouches in their wing membranes in front of females
and females probably base their mate choice decision mostly on volatiles. Field work will include odour collection, tissue collection and
behavioural observations including choice experiments. Laboratory work includes chemical, immunological and/or genetic work. The successful candidate
will have a diploma or MSc in Biology, Zoology or related disciplines, a strong background in behavioural ecology, genetics and evolution, above average achievements in undergraduate studies,
excellent knowledge of statistics, organisational skills, ability to work under difficult conditions in a team and profound knowledge of English (speaking and
writing). Experience in field work, immunological or molecular genetic lab work and knowledge of Spanish will be an advantage.

1 Phd: mate choice and olfaction in spotted hyenas (ref: 15/2009) This project will integrate genetic, chemical and behavioural aspects of olfaction to investigate the importance of olfactory
cues in mate choice in the spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta); a social carnivore that exhibits strong female mate choice. The candidate will conduct field work for approximately six months per year on a well
studied population of individually known spotted hyenas in the Serengeti, Tanzania. Field work will entail both the collection of detailed behaviour data and odour
and genetic samples from known individuals. Laboratory work will involve olfactory analyses, immunological and/or genetic work. The successful candidate will have a diploma or MSc in Biology, Zoology or
related disciplines, require experience of behavioural research, above average achievements in undergraduate studies, excellent knowledge of statistics, organisational skills, a proven ability in the lab, a
driving licence, good spoken and written English, and an ability to work independently in challenging field situations in Africa.

For an introduction to the publications of the participating groups see:
the role of MHC in mate choice - Sommer (2005) Frontiers in Zool; Ziegler et al (2005) Trends Immunol; Schwensow et al (2008) Proc R Soc Lond B;
Schwensow et al (2008) Evol Ecol; spotted hyenas - East et al (2001) PNAS; East et al (2003) Proc Roy Soc Lond B; Höner et al (2007) Nature; Burgener et al (2009) Anim Behav; bats - Voigt & von
Helversen (1998) Behav Ecol Sociobiol; Nagy et al. (2007) Proc R Soc Lond B; Voigt et al (2008) J Mammal; Caspers et al. (2009) Behav Ecol Sociobiol.

All positions are limited to three years - starting dates are at the earliest on 1st September 2009. The IZW is determined to increase the
proportion of women in successful scientific careers and particularly encourages female scientists to apply. For further information please contact Prof Dr Simone Sommer (immune genetics,
+49-30-5168-315, sommer@izw-berlin.de), PD Dr Christian Voigt (bats, +49-30-5168-517, voigt@izw-berlin.de), Dr Marion East or Prof Dr Heribert Hofer (hyenas,
+49-30-5168-512, east@ izw-berlin.de). Candidates should submit an electronic application with a letter clearly indicating which position they apply for, explain their interests in it and
particular skills for it, enclose a CV, a summary of their PhD thesis (postdoc position), Diploma or Master Thesis (PhD positions), copies of relevant degrees,
two letters of recommendation and publication list (if available) preferentially before 15 July 2009 (PhD positions) and 15 August 2009
(Postdoc position). We will consider applications until the position is filled and expect to hold an initial round of PhD candidate interviews on Friday 24 July 2009. Applications should be sent to the
Leibniz-Institut für Zoo- und Wildtierforschung im Forschungsverbund Berlin e. V., Stephanie Vollberg, vollberg@izw-berlin.de, Postfach 60 11 03, D-10252
Berlin, Germany.

Prof Dr Simone Sommer
Evolutionary Genetics, Leibniz-Institute for Zoo- and
Wildlife Research
& Evolutionary Ecology, University of Potsdam
Leibniz-Institute for Zoo- and Wildlife Research (IZW)
Alfred-Kowalke Str. 17
D-10315 Berlin
Tel. +49 30 5168 315
Fax +49 30 5126 104

New York/London/Nairobi, 3 June 2009 - $155 billion was invested in 2008 in clean energy companies and projects worldwide - not including large hydro, a new report launched today says.

Of this $13.5 billion of new private investment went into companies developing and scaling-up new technologies alongside $117 billion of investment in renewable energy projects from geothermal and wind to solar and biofuels.

Extremely difficult financial market conditions prevailed during 2008 as a result of the global economic crisis.

Nevertheless investment in clean energy topped 2007’s record investments by 5% in large part as a result of China, Brazil and other emerging economies.

Of the $155 billion, $105 billion was spent directly developing 40 GW of power generating capacity from wind, solar, small-hydro, biomass and geothermal sources.

A further $35 billion was spent on developing 25 GW of large hydropower, according to the report.

This $140 billion investment in 65 GW of low carbon electricity generation compares with the estimated $250 billion spent globally in 2008 constructing 157GW of new power generating capacity from all sources.

It means that renewables currently account for the majority of investment and over 40% of actual power generation capacity additions last year.

Achim Steiner, UN Under-Secretary General and UNEP Executive Director, said: “Without doubt the economic crisis has taken its toll on investments in clean energy when set against the record-breaking growth of recent years. Investment in the United States fell by two per cent and in Europe growth was very much muted. However, there were also some bright points in 2008 especially in developing economies—China became the world’s second largest wind market in terms of new capacity and the world’s biggest photovoltaic manufacturer and a rise in geothermal energy may be getting underway in countries from Australia to Japan and Kenya”.

“Meanwhile other developing economies such as Brazil, Chile, Peru and the Philippines have brought in, or are poised to introduce policies and laws fostering clean energy as part of a Green Economy. Mexico for example, the Global host of World Environment Day on 5 June, is expected to double its target for energy from renewables to 16 per cent as part of a new national energy policy,” he added.

Overall Highlights from the Report

Wind attracted the highest new investment ($51.8 billion, 1% growth on 2007), although solar made the largest gains ($33.5 billion, 49% growth) while biofuels dropped somewhat ($16.9 billion, 9% decrease).

Total transaction value in the sustainable energy sector during 2008 – including corporate acquisitions, asset re-financings and private equity buy-outs – was $223 billion, an increase of 7% over 2007. But capital raised via the public stock markets fell 51% to $11.4 billion as clean energy share prices lost 61% of their value during 2008.

Investment in the second half of 2008 was down 17% on the first half, and down 23% on the final six months of 2007, a trend that has continued into 2009.

One response to the global economic crisis has been announcements of stimulus packages with specific, multi-billion dollar provisions for energy efficiency up to boosts to renewable energies.

“These ‘green new deals’ lined up by some economies, including China, Japan, the Republic of Korea, European countries and the United States contain some serious clean energy provisions. These will help support the market,” said Mr. Steiner.

“However, the biggest renewables stimulus package of them all can come at the UN climate convention meeting in Copenhagen in just over 180 days time. This is where governments need to Seal the Deal on a new climate agreement—one that can bring certainty to the carbon markets, one that can unleash transformative investments in lean and clean green tech,” he added.

Green Energy Costs Coming Down - Solar Costs Set to Fall 43%

The investment surge of recent years and softened commodity markets have started to ease supply chain bottlenecks, especially in the wind and solar sectors, which will cause prices to fall towards marginal costs and several players to consolidate. The price of solar PV modules, for example, is predicted to fall by over 43% in 2009.

Carbon Markets Continue Upward

Despite the turmoil in the world’s financial markets, transaction value in the global carbon market grew 87% during 2008, reaching a total of $120 billion. Following the lead of the EU and Kyoto compliance markets, several countries are now putting in place a system of interlinked carbon markets and working towards a global scheme under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

Growth Shifts to the Developing World

On a regional basis, investment in Europe in 2008 was $49.7 billion, a rise of 2%, and in North America was $30.1 billion, a fall of 8%.

These regions experienced a slow-down in the financing of new renewable energy projects due to the lack of project finance and the fact that tax credit-driven markets are mostly ineffective in a downturn.

With developed country market growth stalled (down 1.7%), developing countries surged forward 27% over 2007 to $36.6 billion, accounting for nearly one third of global investments.

China led new investment in Asia, with an 18% increase over 2007 to $15.6 billion, mostly in new wind projects, and some biomass plants.

Investment in India grew 12% to $4.1 billion in 2008. Brazil accounted for almost all renewable energy investment in Latin America in 2008, with ethanol receiving $10.8 billion, up 76% from 2007. Africa achieved a modest increase by comparison, with investments up 10% to approximately $1.1 billion.

The Greening of Economic Stimulus Packages

Not surprisingly given market conditions, private sector investment was stalling in late 2008 but government investment looks ready to take up some of the slack in 2009.

Sustainable energy investments are a core part of key government fiscal stimulus packages announced in recent months, accounting for an estimated $183 billion of commitments to date.

Countries vary significantly in terms of investment and the clarity of their measures. The US and China remain the leaders, each devoting roughly $67 billion, but South Korea’s package is the “greenest” with 20% devoted to clean energy. This green stimuli illustrates the political will of an increasing number of governments for securing future growth through greener economic development.

According to Michael Liebreich, Chairman & CEO of New Energy Finance, “There is a strong case for further measures, such as requiring state-supported banks to raise lending to the sector, providing capital gains tax exemptions on investments in clean technology, creating a framework for Green Bonds and so on, all targeted at getting investment flowing”.

“What’s most important is that stimulus funds start flowing immediately, not in a year or so. Many of the policies to achieve growth over the medium term are already in place, including feed-in tariff regimes, mandatory renewable energy targets and tax incentives. There is too much emphasis amongst some policy-makers on support mechanisms, and not enough on the urgent needs of investors right now.”

Between 2009 and 2011 UNEP estimates that a minimum of $750 billion – or 37% of current economic stimulus packages and 1% of global GDP – is needed to finance a sustainable economic recovery by investing in the greening of five key sectors of the global economy: buildings, energy, transport, agriculture and water.

2009 and beyond: Climate change, energy security and green jobs

New investments in the first quarter of 2009 fell by 53% to $13.3 billion compared to the same period in 2008, reflecting the depth of the global financial crisis, according to the report, which notes “‘green-shoots’ of recovery during the second quarter of 2009, but the sector has a long way to go this year to reach the investment levels of late 2007 and early 2008.”

Climate change, economic recovery and energy security will spur far greater investments in coming years.

In particular, the growing understanding that global carbon emissions (CO2) must peak around 2015 to avoid dangerous climate change (based on the 4th assessment of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change- UNEP/World Meteorological Organisation) will make clean energy investments national priorities.

Annual investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency and carbon capture and storage need to reach half a trillion dollars by 2020, representing an average investment of 0.44% of GDP.

These levels of investment are not impossible to achieve, especially in view of the recent four year growth from $35 billion to $155 billion. However, reaching them will require a further scale-up of societal commitments to a more sustainable, low-carbon energy paradigm.

With the current stimulus packages now in play and a hoped-for Copenhagen climate deal in December, the opportunity to meet this challenge is greater than ever, even seen from the depths of an economic downturn.

Global Trends in Sustainable Energy Investment 2009 - Sector Hi-lites

WIND

Wind attracted the highest new investment ($51.8 billion, 1% growth on 2007), confirming its status as the most mature and best-established sustainable generation technology. Wind’s leading position continues to be driven by asset finance, as new generation capacity is added worldwide, particularly in China and the US.

SOLAR

Solar continues to be the fastest-growing sector for new investment ($33.5 billion, 49% growth on 2007), with compound annual growth of 70% between 2006 and 2008.

Solar’s growth reflects the easing of the silicon bottleneck and falling costs, which are expected to decline 43% in 2009. Solar project financing underwent the most dramatic growth in 2008, rising 71% to $22.1 billion.

BIOFUELS

Investment in biofuels fell 9% in 2008 down to $16.9 billion. Although the technology is well established, particularly in Brazil, it has suffered for the past two years from over-investment in early 2007, followed by a fall from grace caused by a combination of high wheat prices, lower oil prices and an increasingly heated food-versus-fuel controversy.

Biofuels technology investment is now focused on finding second-generation / non-food biofuels (such as algae, crop technologies and jatropha): the second half of 2008 saw next-generation technology investment exceed first-generation for the first time.

GEOTHERMAL

Geothermal was the highest growth sector for investment in 2008, with investment up 149% and 1.3 GW of new capacity installed. The competitive cost of electricity from geothermal sources and long output lifetimes have made this an attractive investment despite the high initial capital cost.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY

New private investment in energy efficiency was $1.8 billion – a fall of 33% on 2007 – although this figure doesn’t capture the investments made by corporates, governments and public financing institutions.

The energy efficiency sector recorded the second highest levels of venture capital and private equity investment (after solar), which will help companies develop the next generation of sustainable energy technologies for areas such as the smart grid. Energy efficiency also attracted more than 33% of the estimated $180 billion in green stimulus measures.

Global Trends in Sustainable Energy Investment 2009 - Regional Hi-lites

EUROPE

Europe continues to dominate sustainable energy new investment with $49.7 billion in 2008, an increase of 2% on 2007 (37% CAGR from 2006-2008).This investment is underpinned by government policies supporting new sustainable energy projects, particularly in countries such as Spain, which saw $17.4 billion of asset finance investment in 2008.

NORTH AMERICA

New investment in sustainable energy in North America was $30.1 billion in 2008, a fall of 8% compared to 2007 (15% CAGR from 2006-2008). The US saw a slow-down in asset financing following the glut of investment in corn based ethanol in 2007. Also, the number of tax equity providers fell for wind and solar projects due to the financial crisis.

AFRICA

South Africa - Feed-in Tariffs Kick Start Green Investment

On 31 March 2009, South Africa announced ‘feed-in’ tariffs that guarantee a stable rate-of-return for renewable energy projects. South Africa is hoping to spur the sort of investment spurred in Germany and Denmark through feed-in tariff schemes.

Sub-Saharan Africa - Geothermal Kenya & Sweet Sorghum Ethanol

Elsewhere in Sub-Saharan Africa, lack of finance is the principal barrier to sustainable energy roll-out. However, some notable progress was made in 2008.

In Kenya, a number of investments are underway; including the continents first privately financed geothermal plant and a 300MW wind farm planned for construction near Lake Turkana.

In Ethiopia, French wind turbine manufacturer Vergnet signed a EUR 210 million supply contract in October 2008 with the Ethiopian Electric Power Corporation for the supply and installation of 120 one MW turbines.

In Angola, Brazilian industrial conglomerate Odebrecht set up an Angolan sugar cane processing plant and plans to steer its production from ethanol to sugar when it comes online late next year. UK-based Cams Group announced plans for a 240 million liter per year sweet sorghum ethanol facility in Tanzania.

North Africa - Sun and Wind

Renewable energy in North Africa remains focused on Morroco, Tunisia and Egypt, particularly in solar and wind. Egypt recently announced its expectation that wind farms in the Saidi area will produce 20% of the country’s energy needs by 2020. Morocco’s government has also outlined plans to meet 10% of its power needs with renewable energy sources.

ASIA

China - Asia’s Green Energy Giant

By 2008, China was the world’s second largest wind market by newly installed capacity and the fourth largest by overall installed capacity. Between 5GW and 6.5GW of new capacity was installed and commissioned in 2008, bringing total capacity to 11GW to 12.5GW.

China became the world’s largest PV manufacturer in 2008, with 95% of its production for the export market.

Some 800MW of biomass power was added in 2008, bringing the total installed capacity for agriculture waste-fired power plants up to 2.88GW. Development of biofuels has all but ground to a halt, mostly due to high feedstock costs.

India - Pressing Need for Grid Improvements and Clean Power Generation

In 2008 the largest portion of new investment in India went to the wind sector, growing 17% - from $2.2 billion to $2.6. Thanks to a supportive policy environment, solar investment grew from $18 million in 2007 to $347 million in 2008, most of which went to setting up module and cell manufacturing facilities.

Small hydro investment in India grew nearly fourfold to $543 million in 2008, while biofuels investment stalled and fell from $251 million in 2007 to only $49 million in 2008.

Japan – A New Push for Sustainable Energy

In December 2008, Japan unveiled a new $9 billion subsidy package for solar roofs, granting JPY 70,000 ($785)/kW for rooftop PV installation. For the first time in three years, domestic shipments of solar cells rose between April to September (up 6%), indicating a fundamental change in domestic solar demand.

Geothermal also seems to be reawakening in Japan, after a twenty-year lull. In January 2009, plans for a 60MW geothermal plant were announced.

Australia – Geothermal and Wind Gaining Support

The Australian government has set up a A$500m ($436 million) Renewable Energy Fund to accelerate the roll-out of sustainable energy in the country. A$50 million has already been committed to helping geothermal developers meet the high up-front costs of exploration and drilling.

Geothermal is expected to provide about 7% of the country’s baseload power by 2030. Wind will also benefit from Australia’s new push for sustainable energy, and is expected to provide most of the 20% renewable energy by 2020 target.

Other Asian Countries - Philippines, Thailand, Malaysia

In late 2008, the Philippine government signed a new Renewable Energy Law, offering specific incentives (mainly tax breaks) for renewable generation - a first for Southeast Asia and perhaps a model for other countries. Thailand and Malaysia have been talking about introducing renewable energy legislation for some time; and other countries are planning biofuel blending mandates, similar to those introduced by the Philippines in 2007 and subsequently by Thailand.

LATIN AMERICA

Brazil - World’s Largest Renewable Energy Market

About 46% of Brazil’s energy comes from renewable sources, and 85% of its power generation capacity thanks to its enormous hydropower resources and long-established bioethanol industry.

Some 90% of Brazil’s new cars run on both ethanol and petrol (all of which is blended with around 25% ethanol). By the end of 2008, ethanol accounted for more than 52% of fuel consumption by light vehicles.

Brazil is now moving into wind. The government has announced a wind-specific auction to take place in mid-2009, for the sale of approximately 1GW of wind energy per year.

Brazil also has a global leader in renewable energy financing. In 2008 the Brazilian Development Bank (BNDES) was the largest provider globally of project finance to renewable energy projects.

Chile, Peru, Mexico and the rest of Latin America

Brazil accounted for more than 90% of new investment in Latin American, but several other countries are looking to implement regulatory frameworks supportive of renewable energy.

Chile’s recently approved Renewable Energy Legislation is responsible for regulating the country’s renewable energy sector, where small hydro, wind and geothermal projects have become increasingly attractive for investors. It requires electricity generators of more than 200MW to source 10% of their energy mix from renewables.

In 2008 Peru introduced legislation that requires 5% of electricity produced in the country to be derived from renewable sources over the next five years, including financial incentives such as preferential feed-in-tariffs and 20-year PPAs for project developers.

Mexico has a non-mandatory target to source 8% of its energy consumption from renewable sources by 2012. However a new national energy plan expected at the end of June 2009 is expected to double that target.

How often am I going to upgrade my equipment based on the new radical improvements that GPS the manufacturer will come out with?

How long before my existing equipment will become obsolete and I will have to replace it?

How long will it be before I have a disadvantage with my existing equipment?

gps

When the time came to choose a GPS system, I decided that I would choose the best GPS that I could afford based on the use of the GPS (and in this case, the least expensive model).

GPS means Global Positioning System. By use of the network of 24 satellites that constantly circle the earth, a GPS receiver calculates your location (latitude, longitude, and altitude) using information from a minimum of three of the GPS satellites. This allows you to know where you are (and to navigate to a destination) anywhere on earth. A GPS receiver can take your outdoor adventures further than ever, but make sure to also bring a map of the area with you. Never trust a GPS to help your navigate your entire outdoor adventure since all electrical equipment malfunctions.

The GPS allows you to mark any special place that you would like to return to with a waypoint. This allows you, next time, to find your way back to that special place without getting lost, or tracking the path you have walked and place it over maps, dowloading tracks and waypoints once you’re at home. Just remember the GPS usually has trouble receiving satellite transmissions deep in the woods with high trees, underground, underwater and indoors.

WAAS technology
Make sure the GPS has WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System) technology. WAAS technology allows the GPS to give you accuracy within 3 meters.

Multi-channel design
Single-channel GPS receivers are outdated and the GPS that you should consider should have a parallel multi-channel design. The GPS has a specific circuit dedicated to a single satellite signal. This allows the GPS to lock in your position fast and accurately with easier navigation through tougher terrain. Take the GPS outside (if you are able to) to see how fast the GPS locks into at least 3 satellites.

GPS memory
The more internal memory the GPS has, the more information that can be stored - waypoints, routes, POI (Points Of Interest), maps, etc. Make sure the GPS has at least 32MB or more of memory if you are going to use mapping. If you are going to use the GPS for sea as well as land, more memory will allow the GPS to get to street-level on land for exact directions. Most memory will be fixed (built into the GPS), but some GPS receivers have removable memory cards.

Waterproof or water resistant?
If you are going to use the GPS for kayaking and canoeing and the GPS is water resistant, a special see-through drybag made especially for a GPS has to be used. Water resistant will be acceptable for all other types of outdoor adventure activities such as hiking and backpacking.

Batteries and battery life?
What type of batteries are used with the GPS? Are they normal rechargeable AA batteries or are they special manufacturer batteries? Extra batteries must be carried along at all times just in case. How long do the batteries last? Is there a battery saver mode (sleep mode)? Do you have to turn the GPS on and off each time to save the batteries? How long can the GPS remain on without turning the receiver off before the battery power runs out?

Map or non-mapping?
The least expensive GPS is the Non-Mapping receiver that just includes a plotter screen that displays overhead the waypoints, the POI (Points of Interest - cities, gas stations, lighthouses, buoy markers, parks, etc.) and routes. No maps are displayed in this receivers. This receiver is actually quite effective for sea kayaking or hiking. The price of this receiver makes this receiver very attractive. A Base Map GPS (the next expensive GPS) displays all the information as the non-mapping unit, but also displays major roads, coastlines, lakes, rivers, highway exits, etc. Mapping GPS receivers bring the GPS to its highest level - total map control with real land and sea maps, marine navigation, restaurants, street addresses, topography, trails and much more (most expensive). You can actually navigate to an exact street address using a map. Usually all maps are downloaded from a CD (extra $). It is really your choice on which type of GPS fits your needs. Remember GPS technology changes very rapidly and the $500 unit that you purchase last year will be sold for $150 next year (or it may not even be available any more). All receivers will get you from point A, to B, to C and to D. If you also want your GPS to be used as navigation for your car, then you must choose the Mapping GPS. I use my GPS for kayaking and hiking and I decided that the Non-Mapping GPS fits my needs quite effectively. Since I must still bring a waterproof map of the area, I prefer to use the waterproof maps as I can see the whole area much better than a GPS screen.

Other features?
There are many other features, too numerous to mention, that are available on a GPS. Some include compass, altimeter, high and low tides, moon phases, communication (2-way radio built in), etc. Find out about all the extra features and one of them might be important to you.

Don’t forget to learn how to maintain your GPS correctly because incorrect methods might damage your GPS and choose a GPS wisely. Always remember to remove the batteries out of the GPS if you are not going to use it for over 6 months (GPS set up might have to be done again when the batteries are replaced).

How often am I going to binocular upgrade my equipment based on the new radical improvements that the manufacturer will come out with?

How long before my existing equipment will become obsolete and I will have to replace it?

How long will it be before I have a disadvantage with my existing equipment?

When the time came to choose binoculars, I decided that I would choose the best binoculars that I could afford based on the use of the binoculars. I didn’t want the binoculars to be so heavy that I didn’t want to hike with them. I wanted to have a wide FOV (field of view) and I wanted the binoculars to be powerful enough. I wanted to be able to focus fast and at the same time be able to see close up.

If you are fortunate to have an Outdoor Retail Store nearby that allows you to take out several pairs of binoculars to try, use and compare, you will really see the difference between several binoculars looking at the same subject. And at the same time, you will feel the difference between the weight and how they handle. There are many binocular features to consider when choosing binoculars and all the options available are important.

What power binoculars do you need?
All binoculars have a pair of numbers ##x##, for example 7×42, 8×30, 10×50. The first number is the power (magnification) and the second number is the size of the lens (42, 30 or 50mm). In this example, the 7 (or 8 or 10) means 7 (or 8 or 10) times closer than seeing the subject with only your own eyesight. The lower the magnification, the brighter the subject will appear and the wider the area that you will be able to see. So, decide on what you are normally looking at: birds, landscape, etc. The more powerful binocular will be harder to keep steady because of the small FOV (field of view). If you are going to use the binoculars at dusk a lot, you will need a larger lens size (maybe a 50mm instead of the 42mm lens. The larger the lens size, the more light that is let in to your eyes.

Coated or non coated lens?
Coated lens also affects the brightness of the subject that you are looking at. Coated lenses increase the amount of light that will make it all the way through the binoculars to your eyes. The more light, the more contrast. Do you need that option? The coating of the lens will increase the cost of the binoculars.

How close do you need the binoculars to focus?
Always test the binoculars to see how close you can focus. Look around the store and focus on the closest subject that you can find. Measure the distance from your binoculars to the subject. Do you need to focus any closer (wildlife, mushrooms, etc.)?

How wide do you need the field of view (FOV)?
Field of view is the width of the area you see through the binoculars. Take two different pairs of binoculars (7×42 and 8×42) and look at the same subject. You will see that the 7×42 has a large FOV than the more powerful 8×42 binoculars (the larger the magnification, the smaller the FOV). How important is it for you to have a larger FOV? The smaller the FOV, the harder it is to spot smaller subjects (birds for instance).

How heavy is the binoculars?
Are you going to be hiking with the binoculars? Are the binoculars going to be carried in a backpack or are they going to be worn all the time? Weight is a very important factor when choosing binoculars.

Do you need water resistant or waterproof binoculars?
Are you going to be kayaking with your binoculars or just walking through the rain? Waterproof binoculars are more expensive than water resistant binoculars.

How durable are the binoculars?
Are you going to be climbing, hiking, kayaking or just walking and not putting your binoculars in situations that you need extreme durability? If you need durability, choose the binoculars that have that feature.

How do the binoculars feel in your hands? There are adjustments for focusing the binoculars. Are the adjustments and the balancing weight of the binoculars comfortable in your hands?

Do you wear glasses?
If you wear glasses, the binoculars must have eyepieces that have eyecups that either retract or roll down. This is important for people who wear glasses and will wear them when using binoculars. Check to make sure that the eyecups are replaceable if they become damaged.

What is the warrantee and the repair service for the binoculars?
Some expensive binocular manufacturers will give you a new pair of binoculars when they can’t repair them when they become damaged. Check out the reliability of the manufacturer.

Bino Straps
The bino straps are a great accessory for your binoculars. Make sure there are bino straps available for the pair of binoculars you choose.

Don’t forget to learn how to maintain your binoculars correctly because incorrect methods might damage your binoculars and choose your binoculars wisely.

The 15 facilities represent 5.1MW of renewable energy generating assets developed to sell electricity to the host customers under commercial PPAs. The projects include 8 rooftop systems for one of the largest grocery store chains in America, a 2MW single-axis tracking ground-mount system for a California airport, a 400kW fixed groundmount system for a county juvenile detention center, and systems serving a boutique winery, a series of walnut processing facilities, a northern California water district, and the headquarters of a major Central Valley religious organization. All 15 projects are expected to be completed and fully operational

by end of June 2008.

SPP’s industry leading project development processes and system design and construction management standards helped insure that these solar energy facilities met the strict quality guidelines required to provide predictable power production over the expected life of the systems. SPP teamed with Suntechnics Energy Systems, Borrego Solar, Premier Power, Advance Solar, World Water and Solar, Solar Power Inc. and 3rd Rock Technologies in the development of the diverse portfolio of facilities.

“Our success in completing development of this distributed solar PV portfolio demonstrates a commitment to provide reliable long-term renewable solar energy by SPP and its partners, and it validates SPP’s dedication to building long term quality assets for our Investor/Owners” said Alexander v. Welczeck, SPP’s Co-Founder and CEO. “Working closely with our financial partners to constantly improve internal development processes and to enhance our risk management and quality assurance methodologies will continue to differentiate SPP as we strive to exceed our customers’ and partners’ expectations.” added Hugh A. Kuhn, SPP’s Vice President of Operations & Technology.

About Solar Power Partners
Solar Power Partners, Inc. is a California-based renewable energy company that helps businesses, institutions, municipalities and agricultural customers embrace solar energy. SPP develops and operates distributed solar energy facilities and sells solar-generated electricity through Power Purchase Agreements, long-term energy financing solutions that help customers go green without the hassles or costs of solar facility ownership and maintenance. SPP serves the continental United States and Hawaii and teams with the nation’s best solar integrators for customized, renewable energy installations.

You will find today that solar panel manufacture and solar wholesaler companies are starting up all over the world. There are also tons of solar contractor positions that are opening up as a result of the high demand for a solar energy system to be installed at people’s homes or offices. The solar rebate is something that many people have also begun to recognize and take notice of and this has increased the demand for solar electric energy even more.

Solar thin film is basically another word for solar panels and represents the thin cellular compounds that are installed on the roof of a building to attract and hold the energy that the sun provides. Energy from the sun is called renewable because it can never run out, which means that it is affordable solar power and one that will not cause harm to the environment in terms of pollution and using up oil and gas resources which are running out slowly. In order to preserve our planet, the

solar electric component must be taken advantage of. This solar electricity will power buildings and homes even at night. The solar power designer will have made these panels very durable and good at maintaining the heat that they attract during the day. This means that at night and during days where there is no sun, the energy can still be used to power lights, fridges, heated pools, and other appliances in the home or office. The solar module that you can have installed can be as large or small as you want and need. The more modules you use, the more power you will get and the solar energy company that supplies major buildings will attest to the fact that entire buildings are covered in solar power panels to ensure that they don’t use any traditional forms of electricity.

If you want to get solar home panels, there are various solar panel installer and solar power installation companies that can assist you. They will make sure that it is professionally done so that you can gain the most solar incentive from your purchase and help make the world a greener and cleaner place to live. You will be helping to solve the world’s energy crisis by getting a solar energy system or solar power system from a solar wholesaler or solar power contractor to power you home and office. Even if you just start off by getting a single residential solar panel for your pool, you will be saving a large portion of energy. While purchasing any kind of solar panel module or solar thin film will be costly, the long term benefits are tremendous and will save you tons of money in energy bills over the years.

Article found on Solar System Benefits. Find more information about Solar Panel here.

Wind Power uses massive wind mills that turn powerful turbines, usually found in large scale wind farms, to create an effective amount of power all over the world, providing power to remote regions. Siemens has 6,300 wind turbines all over the world, including their offshore wind Farms. A report from Siemens USA states that Wind power is the quickest growing power source in the world.

Hydro-power or water power has been in use for hundreds of years and is still the most popular form of power used today. The downfall of this has been that electric plants could only be erected near a water supply and a river would have to be dammed up to create a water fall to turn the turbines. This gives hydro power a limited range for users. , Clean Power may be purchased in some 30 states, unfortunately, not in all 50 of them, from an alternative electricity supplier. Even if your state doesn’t offer alternative power, you may still be able to buy green energy certificates. This means that you might have to transfer from your current power company in order to purchase these green tags.

Solar power takes power from the sun and converts this power into electricity. Solar power has been used for many years, mostly to heat water heaters and swimming pools; they have recently created solar panels that heat residential homes. You can buy mobile solar panels that may be installed on caravans, motorhomes and Boats. Solar panels are cheaper today than in previous years.

With all the types of power we have today, people are still researching a more efficient and cheaper source of power due to the continued use of fossil energy polluting the earth’s atmosphere. After many years of research and development, a new power cell, called the EFOY (Energy For You), has been developed by the company SFC (Smart Fuel Cell). This new power cell is quiet, light weight, environmentally friendly, and it is fully automatic, it can produce power for caravans, cars, boats and motor homes. There is a distinct difference between a battery and a fuel cell. A fuel cell converts chemical energy directly to electrical energy by using a liquid fuel (methanol) as its power source. They work efficiently at low temperatures, which make fuel cells more suitable for mobile uses, as it can be used as a generator when no other power is available, and it is totally maintenance free. This low cost energy efficient fuel cell is now available from TSW Comsat, a company in the UK that provides green power equipment.

This article has been produced by TSW-COMSAT ( www.tsw-comsat-sales.co.uk ) to promote the use of green power and fuel.