Storage is one of the most critical problems in the deployment of alternative energy generation solutions. Wind, for instance, is an excellent source of power, but it is generated most effectively when there is the least need for it. Beacon Power Corporation's new flywheel matrix may offer one solution for this challenge. 

The Feds drop and top marks go to two provinces in this year’s Canadian Energy Efficiency Alliance Energy Efficiency 'Report Card'.

By Robert Colman

Recent research reveals that concern for the environment has become a top priority for most Canadians. While many of us are willing to adopt lifestyle changes to make a difference, the simple sustainability solutions that can be integrated into our busy lives aren’t always obvious. One place where consumers can minimize the environmental impact of their daily routine is in the laundry room. Now, a website supported by a multi-stakeholder consortium is working to make this change happen.

Iogen Corporation’s application for funding Canada’s first commercial scale cellulosic ethanol production facility progressed to the due diligence phase in March. Canada’s Environment Minister John Baird was on hand at Globe 2008 to make the announcement.

"Thanks to our government’s allocation of $500 million for next generation biofuels, Canada is well-positioned to be a world leader in the renewable fuels industry," said Minister Baird.

The application, which was submitted to Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC) under the recently launched NextGen Biofuels Fund, is for a cellulosic ethanol biorefinery, to be built in Saskatchewan. Once the due diligence process is complete, SDTC will make a final decision on funding.

"Cellulosic ethanol has the potential to help Canada meet its Renewable Fuels Standard in a sustainable way," said Vicky Sharpe, president and CEO of SDTC.

Next-generation renewable fuels are derived from non-traditional renewable feedstocks, such as fast-growing grasses, agricultural residues and forest biomass. These feedstocks consist largely of materials that are currently considered waste.

"Today’s announcement brings us one step closer to making cellulosic ethanol a commercial reality," said Brian Foody, Iogen president.

The NextGen Biofuels Fund will support up to 40 per cent of eligible project costs for the establishment of first-of-kind large demonstration-scale facilities for the production of next-generation renewable fuels. The contribution is repayable based on free cash flow over a 10-year period after project completion.

The GLOBE Foundation of Canada announced the winners of the 2008 GLOBE Awards for Environmental Excellence at Globe 2008, celebrating Canadian companies that take a proactive approach to sustainable business strategies and have made significant strides towards developing progressive technologies and services.

In his New Year's message, Toyota President Katsuaki Watanabe emphasized the need for a comprehensive technology development perspective to create meaningful change in the auto industry. He also shared a number of examples of how Toyota is planning to do just that, by pushing hybrid tech into more models, pursuing research on battery technology and ethanol, and building new model plants around the world.  

West Virginia Governor Joe Manchin addressed the Economic Club of Toronto in mid-October, outlining the challenges and possible solutions for the United States’ dependence on foreign oil. Asked to address his country’s national energy policy, he stated "we still don’t have one."