Hydrovolts is sponsoring Asia’s Largest Clean Technology Investment Conference. Click here for more information.
Thirty seven states have adopted renewable portfolio standards (RPS) or non-binding renewable energy goals, and the once-distant deadlines for deriving a minimum percentage of electricity set by these standards are fast approaching or have already passed, sometimes without being met. As states scramble to generate more electricity with renewable sources, some are turning to less mature technologies, such as hydrokinetic turbines, to fill the gap. Hydrokinetic turbines draw energy from the natural movements of water in rivers and tidal systems. Though there are many sites, particularly on the Mississippi and along the Northwest and Northeast shorelines, that are in the initial planning phase, and even a fewthat have obtained licenses to proceed with development, as a whole, the technology is essentially untested in the US.
The BlueTech Forum is a a boutique water innovation event which brings together the world’s leading water technology companies, water entrepreneurs, water investors, and leading research centres to network with peers. The event is organized by O2 Environmental and provides an exclusive setting where you can increase your knowledge and expand your network.
Bill would boost hydropower development, create jobs
Washington, DC (May 9, 2011) Legislation to improve the regulatory framework for hydropower development continued moving forward on Capitol Hill today as the Energy and Power Subcommittee of the House Energy and Commerce Committee held a hearing on draft legislation based on a bipartisan bill previously introduced by Reps. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) and Diane DeGette (D-CO).
The Hydropower Regulatory Efficiency Act of 2012 directs FERC to examine the feasibility of a two-year licensing process for certain low-impact hydropower projects, such as converting existing non-powered dams; removes small conduit projects from FERC jurisdiction; allows more small projects to qualify for the exemption process; and directs the Energy Department to study the role of pumped storage hydropower for integrating intermittent renewables. Similar legislation co-sponsored by Sens. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Jeff Bingaman (D-NM), the Hydropower Improvement Act of 2011, passed the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee on a voice vote last April.
Click here for the article.
The small Hydrovolts hydrokinetic turbine that was placed recently in the Roza Canal near Yakima can generate enough power to support three or four homes. That’s not huge, but the devices take only about an hour to install and don’t block the flow of water or obstruct the canal’s other water distribution functions.
After winning several clean technology awards, Seattle-based Hydrovolts raised $3 million from various angel groups and is actively looking for manufacturing sites in Washington state. It could have a turbine product on the market as early as 2013.
“It’s a huge advantage to us to be located …
Bringing Together Water Networks
May 22 — 23, 2012
University of Dayton River Campus
1700 South Patterson Blvd
The 2012 Water Technology Innovation Cluster Conference will feature targeted networking along with unique excursions and tours designed to allow participants to make water connections. Network with representatives from water utilities, industrial water users, students, researchers, regulators, entrepreneurs, and investors while visiting the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, kayaking down the Mad River, or relaxing at the Wine Gallery and Café.
The conference is an initiative of the Water Technology Innovation Cluster and the Dayton Water Roundtable. Keynote presentations and panel discussions will provide valuable insights in the regulatory environment, market demand, and emerging technologies, while the conference tracks explore specific practices and opportunities.