Eco Gadgets: Flexible solar panel for rechargeable batteries.
Disposable batteries did transform technology and let to the advent of a range of portable electronic devices that were powered by them. However, since most of these batteries end up in the landfill after they’re discharged, rechargeables are considered a better option for the environment.
Eco Factor: Solid-state rechargeable lithium-air battery reduces risk of explosion.
Engineers at the University of Dayton Research Institute (UDRI) have developed the first solar-state, rechargeable lithium-air battery that addresses the fire and explosion risks common with lithium-ion batteries.
Eco Factor: Carbon neutral homes designed to be powered on renewable energy.
After developing the best in solar technology, Sanyo has announced that it will soon be marketing solar-powered sustainable homes in Japan. The Sanyo Home will be equipped with a 3.78KW solar array and a 1.57KW Sanyo lithium-ion battery for backup.
Eco Factor: Zero-emission supercar runs on batteries.
Electric Cars of Springfield (ECOS) has recently unveiled its all-electric supercar at SEMA 2009. The Lamborghini-styled Harbinger™ is designed to reach a speed of 60mph in just 5 seconds and has an electronically-imposed limit of 117mph.
Eco Factor: Pedal-powered energy generators developed by Duracell.
Duracell has kicked off its energy collection system that will power the iconic 2010 numerals on New Year’s Eve. The Power Rovers developed by the company ask visitors to pedal to generate energy, which will be stored for use December 31st.
Eco Factor: Renewable energy storage system provides compressed air to generate energy.
While renewable energy giants are in a race to develop the biggest and the most efficient renewable energy farms, there are few who are thinking of ways to store all that energy in a system that can provide power when the generators aren’t working.
Eco Factor: Sustainable building designed to reduce energy consumption.
NL Architects has proposed SOZAWE, a sustainable development for Groningen City that will provide office spaces, a large interior public space and ample space to park 215 cars. The building carries green areas on every level, which apart from beautifying the structure also reduces the heat gain during daytime.
Eco Factor: Storing renewable energy in ice to reduce peak daytime energy demand.
Of the total amount of electricity generated by all sources, about 75% is used by buildings, a major fraction of which is consumed by air conditioners. With the demand of renewable energy increasing with every passing day, inventors are trying to find the best possible means to store the generated energy during the best time, to provide power when the generators aren’t getting the sources they need.
Eco Factor: Concept electric vehicle designed to be powered by renewable energy.
Designed by Vlad Icobet, the Renault Aeon is a concept electric vehicle that makes sure that your daily commute to the office has minimum impact on the ecosystem. The all-electric car is inspired by modern architectural structures that are blended with natural organic forms.
Eco Factor: Students develop bio-cell to clean sewage water and generate electricity.
A team of engineering students at the Indian Institute of Technology in Kharagpur have developed a bio-cell, which they claim can be used to treat sewage water and also generate renewable electricity – a solution that can solve the energy and water crisis in one go.
