OC Renewables blog

February Meeting Recap - Power to the People

2012-02-09T22:54:00.000-08:00

Thanks to James Kao from Power to the People for the informative presentation at tonight's meeting. If you did not get a chance to attend and wanted to learn more, this video is a powerful presentation of the good work this organization does. Enjoy!

Power to the People: Empowering Communities Through Renewable Energy Technologies from Brad Allgood on Vimeo.

Up to Half of Solar Costs are Administrative, DOE Says · Environmental Management & Energy News · Environmental Leader

2012-02-09T10:46:00.000-08:00

Up to Half of Solar Costs are Administrative, DOE Says · Environmental Management & Energy News · Environmental Leader

2013 Solar Decathalon Coming to Irvine in 2013!

2012-02-04T09:54:00.000-08:00

The US Department of Energy announced last week that the 2013 Solar Decathlon will be held in our back yard! In addition to welcoming 20 new collegiate teams and hundreds of new student decathletes to the 2013 competition, DOE announced a new site: the Orange County Great Park in Irvine, California. This venue will provide a stage worthy of displaying the teams’ energy-efficient, solar-powered houses to the world.

The Solar Decathlon challenges international collegiate teams to design and build solar-powered houses that are cost-effective, energy-efficient and attractive while promoting the education and economic benefits of renewable energy and energy efficiency. Visitors will be able to tour the renewable energy houses that combine energy-efficient construction and appliances at a specially-constructed Great Park Solar Village in the fall of 2013.

The Great Park received broad-based community support to stage the 2013 Solar Decathlon from many of the region’s elected officials, educational institutions and clean energy organizations, including Senator Dianne Feinstein, U.S. Representatives John Campbell and Loretta Sanchez, Scott Samuleson, Director of the Advanced Power and Energy Program at the University of California Irvine, Bill Habermehl, Superintendent, Orange County Department of Education, the Orange County Business Council, the Building Industry Association of Orange County, Clean TechOC and Southern California Edison.

We have already made contact with the DOE on volunteer opportunities. How else would you like to help bring international attention to renewable energy here in Orange County? Let us know!

CleanTech San Diego Symposium - March 6

2012-02-02T08:31:00.001-08:00

CleanTECH San Diego &
The Solar Electric Power Association
present
San Diego Solar Energy Symposium
TUESDAY | MARCH 6TH, 2012
1:00 - 4:30 PM

University of San Diego
University Center Forums A, B, and C
Reception to follow from 4:30 - 6:30 PM
University of San Diego
Joan B. Kroc Institute for Peace & Justice

A recent report identified San Diego as having the most rooftop solar installations in the state. To ensure this continued success, CleanTECH San Diego and the Solar Electric Power Association are offering a half-day Solar Energy Symposium on March 6 at the University of San Diego to discuss the future of solar energy in the region. Experts will share information about the expansion of solar energy in San Diego, discuss its benefits, address misconceptions and identify ways to build a foundation for long-term solar growth.

Register for this event at
sdsolarenergysymposium2012.eventbrite.com

About CleanTECH San Diego | CleanTECH San Diego is a private, non-profit member organization formed in 2007. As one of the nation's premier cleantech cluster organizations, its mission is to position the region as a global leader in the cleantech economy. CleanTECH San Diego serves as a catalyst for a diverse group of stakeholders to advance a common agenda.
www.cleantechsandiego.org

About SEPA | The Solar Electric Power Association (SEPA) is an educational non-profit organization dedicated to helping utilities integrate solar energy into their portfolio. From facilitating peer-to-peer interaction between utilities and the solar industry to hosting one of the industry's leading educational forums on utility solar, SEPA is the go-to resource for unbiased utility solar information.
www.solarelectricpower.org

Advocacy - Regional Transportation Plans Are Limited in Renewable Energy

2012-01-29T11:31:00.000-08:00

The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) has been tasked with creating "Sustainable Community Strategies" (SCS) under a law known as SB 375. SB 375 was enacted to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from automobiles and light trucks through integrated transportation, land use, housing and environmental planning. Using the regional GHG emissions reduction targets set by the California Air Resources Board (ARB), SCAG is tasked with developing a Sustainable Communities Strategy (SCS), a newly required element of the 2012 Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) that sets a plan for meeting the GHG emissions reduction targets.

SCAG has drafted a Regional Transportation Plan that spans from 2012 to 2035. There's a tremendous amount of data and reporting going on. But, if you'd like, you can read the entire plan here. You can also visit the draft plan's page at this location - it's much easier to break it down into sections.

The bottom line is this: There is only one mention of renewable energy throughout the entire draft report.

Page 81 says "The [Preliminary Environmental Impact Report] also includes mitigation measures relating to energy designed to reduce consumption and increase the use and availability of renewable sources of energy in the region. Since these measures not only reduce energy consumption but also reduce GHG emissions they are addressed above under GHG."

Public comment ends on Tuesday, February 14. I would encourage everyone to fill out the public comment form in support of renewable energy.

SCAG had an Energy Working Group that was active in this issue up until 2007. Encouraging SCAG to bring back the Energy Working Group to help build some renewable energy infrastructure in Orange County and all of Southern California would be a step in the right direction.

For more questions or comments, please contact Mike Harmanos.

February Meeting Announcement: James Kao

2012-01-24T09:18:00.000-08:00

The next meeting of OC Renewables will be held on Thursday, February 9, 6:30 PM, at the Duck Club in Irvine.

Our speaker will be James Kao, Member of the Advisory Board of Power To The People. James is a city planner with experience in landscape architecture, urban design, smart growth, green building and sustainable communities. He currently works at the City of Signal Hill near Long Beach where he has begun coordinating development and implementation of a sustainable city plan. James holds a BS degree in landscape architecture from Cornell University and a Masters in Real Estate Development from USC. He is a lifelong outdoors and nature enthusiast with a passion for world culture, languages and adventure travel and has traveled extensively throughout Latin America and Europe. James is a proponent of developing sustainable communities powered by renewable energy here and abroad and is also a member of a dozen environmental advocacy organizations that focus on alternative transportation, urban forestry, wildlife conservation, and environmental education.

We will also introduce the Board of Trustees for 2012 and talk about our plans for the upcoming year.

Hope to see you on Thursday the 9th at 6:30!

Holiday Party - Tuesday, December 6th

2011-12-02T11:55:00.000-08:00

Once again, we will co-host our holiday party with Young Professionals in Energy - Orange County. The party will be held at the Red Chair Lounge in the Hyatt in Huntington Beach. The address is 21500 Pacific Coast Highway, HB, CA 92648.

The party will be on Tuesday, December 6th from 7:00 to 9:30 pm.

RSVPs not necessary and it's a cash bar. We will also have a "white elephant" gift exchange, if you're interested. Hope to see you there!

Upcoming 2012 Officer Election

2011-10-06T10:34:00.001-07:00

We will have an election for all six OC Renewables members starting next week.

Voting is eligible to members of OC Renewables only. If you would like to vote, you may become a member by 11:59 PM on Thursday, October 27. Click here to join.

Members will vote on the following offices for the 2012 term:

President
Vice President - Events
Vice President - Membership
Secretary
Treasurer
Social Media and Publicity Director

You may find a list of all job descriptions for each office here.

Nominations will be taken from the floor at the October meeting next Thursday, October 13th.

Each member will receive a ballot by Friday, October 14.
Write in candidates are acceptable.
Ballots are due at noon on Thursday, November 10.
The winners will be announced at the November meeting.

Please contact Lori Greene if you have any questions.

October Meeting

2011-09-29T09:53:00.000-07:00

Join us on Thursday, October 13 at 6:30 PM for OC Renewables next monthly meeting. Our Speaker will be James Campbell, Manager, Orange County Land Development & Renewable Energy Initiatives. His topic will be:

Green is the New Orange
Renewable Energy Initiatives underway by the County of Orange

James Campbell is responsible for several land entitlement and development projects, as well as the creation and implementation of renewable energy initiatives for the County of Orange. This includes the development and implementation of the County's AB811 program, which will allow residential and commercial property owners to finance solar and energy efficiency improvements through their property tax assessments (PACE). The County has selected a team headed by PFM to serve as the program administrator. James and his team are also responsible for the development and implementation of a comprehensive energy master plan to serve the County of Orange. The County has selected Navigant Consulting to assist with the plan and its initiatives. Additionally, James and his team negotiated a 4MW solar power purchase agreement with PsomasFMG to provide power to County facilities at a reduced rate over the next 20 years. Additional duties include the development of the County's 200 acres at the former Marine Corp Air Station El Toro in Irvine, CA, as well as, the entitlement and development of a 4,000 unit master planned community on the 1,658 acre "Greenspot" property. Both of these developments include potential renewable energy projects. James has been with the County since 1994, working previously for 3 members of the Orange County Board of Supervisors before joining the County in his current capacity.

Upcoming Renewable Events for October

2011-09-28T10:56:00.000-07:00

COMMUNITY IMPACT SUMMIT FREE SCREENING

Wednesday, October 5th, 2011, 6-9pm
Los Angeles Community College District Small Business Dream Center
811 Wilshire Blvd., 1st Floor - Los Angeles, CA 90017

You are cordially invited to a Community Impact Summit to launch So Right So Smart - Los Angeles, a program to promote the business case for sustainable business throughout Los Angeles. At this special event hosted by the Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD) at the Small Business Dream Center, the green business community will come together to celebrate the life of Ray Anderson, screen the award-winning documentary So Right So Smart, and convene business and sustainability leaders to advance the So Right So Smart - Los Angeles program.

This event is FREE, but those attending are required to RSVP. Click here for more information or to register: http://sorightsosmartla.eventbrite.com/

IRVINE RANCH WATER DISTRICT SITE TOUR AND PRESENTATION
Friday, October 21, 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM
Irvine Ranch Water District - San Joaquin Marsh Campus
Next to the Duck Club in Irvine, CA

IRWD is an innovative urban water supplier, answering its water supply challenge with a comprehensive Recycled Water Program, addressing polluted urban runoff with Natural Treatment Systems, and managing its carbon footprint through a Green House Gas Reduction Plan.

Registration required; space is limited. Click here to register.

LOS ANGELES GREEN FESTIVAL

Saturday, Oct. 29, 10am-7 pm, and Sunday, Oct. 30, 11am-6pm.
LA Convention Center – South Hall G
1201 South Figueroa Street - Los Angeles, CA 90015

The nation’s premier green living event comes to Los Angeles . This year, Green Festival, a nonprofit event, celebrates a ten year milestone. This is a great place to increase your holiday sales! Reserve your spot at the Los Angeles Green Festival and get a 15% discount on your booth. To get this special offer call 828-333-9436 or exhibit@greenfestivals.org.

Click here for more information: www.greenfestivals.org

OC Renewables Election and Positions

2011-09-11T15:47:00.000-07:00

At the last meeting, Lori Greene announced that we would hold elections for a new Board of Trustees. Each position, responsibilities, and questions about the election are as follows:

Offices for Election

OC Renewables has the following positions available with the following responsibilities:

PRESIDENT
Make sure non-profit status is maintained in good standing
Serve as signatory on bank account
Liaise with ASES
Facilitate Board meetings
Oversee the “big picture” goals of OC Renewables - make sure the Board is hitting its milestones
Make sure that the organization adheres to the bylaws
Stay current on important policies in the field (e.g. state regulations)
Devise an annual operating budget and fundraising plan in conjunction with the Treasure and Development Director
Review membership guidelines
Make sure OCR is in full corporate compliance with federal, state, regional & city rules and regulations
Assist with annual government reporting & filing

VICE PRESIDENT – EVENTS
Maintain a database of potential speakers and activities for Chapter Meetings - solicit suggestions from other Board and OCR members
Manage Chapter meetings - we suggest a 2-month lead on speakers/activities
Provide the Social Media & Publicity Director have event information in a timely fashion so they can spread the word. Several publications need 3-4 weeks’ notice.
Coordinate any additional OCR events
Oversee Chapter Meeting venue

VICE PRESIDENT – MEMBERSHIP / DEVELOPMENT
Find incentives for businesses & individuals to join as local chapter members
Oversee fundraising campaign - whether this is an event, a membership drive
Help forge strategic alliances with other organizations & businesses (in consultation with President & other Board members)
Work with President and Board to come up with a fundraising plan
Oversee implementation of fundraising plan
Work with Events Director to plan fundraising events
Assume the duties of the President if the President is unavailable and if the office becomes unoccupied

SECRETARY
Organize regular Board meetings in consultation with President
Create agenda for Board meetings in collaboration with other Board members;
Maintain & distribute Board of Directors meeting Minutes
Keep corporate paperwork organized and up to date
Serve as signatory on bank account
Make sure OCR is in full corporate compliance with federal, state, regional & city rules and regulations
Assist with annual government reporting & filing

TREASURER
Provide monthly treasury reports at board meetings
Serve as signatory on bank account
Assist in procuring any necessary items
Make sure vendors get paid, maintain checkbook / accounting
Assist with annual government reporting & filing

SOCIAL MEDIA AND PUBLICITY DIRECTOR
Write content for weekly e-newsletter
Update & maintain website with announcements of upcoming OCR activities, as well as follow-ups on previous meetings (summaries, photos, etc). May get the help from other OCR Board members in implementing these.
Moderate social media outlets - Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn
Write press releases for the group
Place notices of monthly meetings & special events to community bulletins, local publications, etc
Look for and facilitate media placement
Keep log of press clippings
Make sure someone takes photos of events and other activities

Election Process

If you are interested in any of the above positions, contact Lori Greene to place your name on the ballot.
You must be a member of OC Renewables in order to run for office. If you are not a member, please become one today.

If you are a member of OC Renewables by Thursday, October 27, you will be eligible to vote in this election.

All Members of OC Renewables will receive a ballot by Friday, October 14, 2011. Voting is open until Thursday, November 10 at 11:59 AM Pacific.
Votes will be collected and tabulated on November 10th and announced at the OC Renewables meeting that evening.

Upcoming Renewable Events Around Orange County

2011-09-10T16:29:00.000-07:00

Upcoming events of note...

Thursday, September 22, 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
AEE SoCal Annual Conferernce "Energy Risk: Keeping the Power On"
Association of Electrical Engineers (AEE) - So Cal Chapter
SoCalGas Energy Resource Center
9240 Firestone Boulevard, Downey, CA 90241

Monday, September 26, 6:30 PM
American Vacuum Society, Inc. Presents “Fuels from Sunlight”
dinner & presentation with CalTech professor Nathan Lewis
Il Fornaio Restaurant, Sorrento Room
24 West Union Street, Pasadena, CA 91103
Registration deadline is September 16th!
For more details, visit: www.sccavs.org

Wednesday and Thursday, September 28-29
South Coast AQMD Air Quality Technology Symposium
SCAQMD Auditorium
21865 Copley Drive, Diamond Bar, California 91765
Attendance and exhibit space are free of charge.

September Meeting Wrap-Up

2011-09-10T15:57:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Dr. Jack Brouwer, the Associate Director of the National Fuel Cell Research Center (NFCRC) located at the University of California, Irvine (UCI) for his excellent presentation and questions about fuel cells on Thursday the 8th! The main highlight was Dr. Brouwer and the NFCRC's work a the world's first renewable, high temperature, fuel cell hydrogen, coproduct demonstration at the Orange County Sanitary District in Fountain Valley. In a nutshell, sludge and waste goes into a storage tank. The fuel cell generator takes the methane and uses chemical catalysts to split hydrogen atoms off of methane. The hydrogen is siphoned off to form 300 kilowatts of electricity and the remainder becomes the fuel coming out of the nozzle in the picture above for fuel cell-powered automobiles.

There is incredible innovation taking place right here in Orange County, and we are very thankful to have the quality of speaker like Dr. Brouwer join us and explain it's potential and uses. Thank you, Dr. Brouwer!

Join us for our next meeting on Thursday, October 13th. Speaker to be determined... but they have big shoes to fill.

Create A Sustainable Future With a Green Career

2011-09-04T09:14:00.000-07:00

Cal State Fullerton University Extended Education wants to provide you with the skills to implement green practices in your career or business. Advancements are being made every day to make our world a greener place – and they can provide this specialized training through professional development courses conveniently offered in the evenings or on weekends. Most courses begin in September.

Five sustainability programs are being offered for Fall…
Applied Sustainability is designed to give participants an applied understanding of the concepts, practical knowledge and skills necessary for the adoption of sustainability practices. It’s a great place to start if you’re new to green.
If you already work in a construction or IT related field, your best fit might be to enroll in courses that focus on the sustainability aspects of your industry, choosing from: Green Building, Commercial Building Energy Audit, and Green Data Center Management. Cloud Computing and Emerging Technologies is also a part of our sustainability offerings – courses will be offered at a future date.

Questions? See the contact at the bottom of each program description page (links above).
Register ONLINE today: www.fullerton.edu/greencareers or call 657.278.2611.

University Extended Education
Cal State Fullerton
2600 Nutwood Ave., Suite 100
Fullerton, CA 92831

September Meeting and Reorganization

2011-08-25T10:44:00.000-07:00

Exciting news ahead for OC Renewables!

First, join us at our next regular meeting on Thursday, September 8, 6:30 PM at the Duck Club. Our guest speaker will be Dr. Jack Brouwer, the Associate Director of the National Fuel Cell Research Center (NFCRC) located at the University of California, Irvine (UCI). Dr. Brouwer's topic will be Turning Waste Into Energy: Overview of Fuel Cells. At the NFCRC, Dr. Brouwer has overall responsibility of the management and operations of the center as well as the challenges associated with the development of this unique concept. The NFCRC is breaking new ground in the design and conduct of both a university center and a National Center. This, coupled with the extraordinary changes that are occurring with regard to electric restructuring and global climate requirements, is bringing focused attention of the world's community to high-efficiency, environmental-preferred energy generation options with fuel cell technology serving as the principal target.

Dr. Brouwer will speak to us about his last ten years of hard work bringing the sewage-to-hydrogen project online at the Orange County Sanitation District in Fountain Valley. The Fuel Cell Research Center recently posted the following: "Imagine being able to get the equivalent of 70 miles per gallon in your car, keep your home cool and power your computer – all from sewage. Thanks to technology developed by UC Irvine’s National Fuel Cell Research Center and partners, that’s now possible. Ten years of hard work, led by center associate director Jack Brouwer, has paid off in a cutting-edge project at the Orange County Sanitation District in Fountain Valley. A unique fuel cell generator simultaneously and continuously converts gas created in wastewater digesters to hydrogen used for zero-emission vehicle fuel, electricity and heat in a highly efficient manner.

“This will reduce smog and greenhouse gases and mean a better quality of life for Southern Californians,” says Brouwer, showing off the white generator box and shiny silver pipes across from a waste settling pond, along with a brand-new hydrogen fueling station. Starting this month, drivers of select hydrogen-run cars will be able to exit the 405 freeway at Euclid Avenue and fill up with converted sewage waste. Numerous major automakers have announced plans to commercially manufacture such vehicles by 2015. Using locally produced hydrogen will increase its supply and bring costs in line with other renewable energy sources.

Also, at this meeting, we will start the process for electing new officers to the Board of Directors. OC Renewables is at the point where we need to find the best, most persuasive case to promote renewable energy to Orange County and celebrate renewable energy success stories. If you think you have an idea, or are willing to make a contribution, this is your chance! Contact Lori Greene to find out more details about being a member of the Board and what Board members do.

See you on Thursday the 8th!

Summer Barbeque Wrap Up and Upcoming Events

2011-07-15T13:09:00.000-07:00

Thanks to those who attended last night's Summer Barbeque! Also, special thanks to Jay and Marquita Miller of the Sea and Sand Chapter of the Audubon Society for conducting a fine tour of the avian wildlife in and around the Irvine Ranch Water District grounds. We have an ecological gem here in the heart of Orange County!

There will be no monthly meeting in August. OC Renewables will kick off again on Thursday, September 8th. We will have a big speaker, networking opportunities, and a good discussion on the future of the OC Renewables chapter.

With that segue, we will select new officers at the September meeting. A job description for each spot will be available here on this website in the next few days. OC Renewables has a critical mass of individuals who promote renewable energy. Finding out the best, most persuasive case to promote renewable energy and taking it to all of Orange County is up to the next group of officers. If you think you have an idea, or are willing to make a contribution, this is your chance! Contact Lori Greene to find out more details about being a member of the Board and what Board members do.

July Barbeque and Meeting

2011-07-06T10:58:00.000-07:00

OC Renewables will hold it's regular monthly meeting on Thursday, July 14 at the Duck Club in Irvine.

We will host a barbeque with food (omnivore and vegetarian options) and soft drinks. The barbeque will start at 6:30 PM. The Sea and Sage Audubon Society of Orange County will provide a guided tour of the San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary. That will start from the Duck Club at 6:00 PM.

You may bring your own food, if you'd like, or you may bring some for all and turn it into a potluck.

We look forward to a good time on Thursday!

No Meeting in June

2011-06-06T14:40:00.000-07:00

There will be no regularly scheduled monthly meeting this Thursday. Join us on July 14 for our annual summer picnic/networking event at the Duck Club in Irvine.

ASES Advocacy: Keep Funding for DOE's Loan Guarantee Program

2011-05-24T11:44:00.000-07:00

Just when we were breathing a sigh of relief over the Dept. of Energy's Loan Guarantee Program for Renewables having survived the Congressional budget bloodbath, ASES hears that some worthy projects that were counting on it may well fall by the wayside.

DOE has informed dozens of loan guarantee applicants that their applications will be put on hold indefinitely. Unless applicants can start their projects and close their loan guarantees by September 30, they won't be considered for a guarantee under the program.

To date, DOE has committed nearly $30 billion in guarantees for 27 clean energy projects, representing some $40 billion in private investment. These projects will be responsible for the creation of tens of thousands of jobs over 21 states; they include utility-scale solar power plants in the southwest and solar manufacturing facilities in California, Colorado and Indiana. But now some 40 applications, representing $15 billion in investments and thousands of jobs, have been placed on hold; the companies involved have together spent millions of dollars to this point, preparing their applications.

To maintain and build on the success of the Loan Guarantee Program, and to ensure that as many viable clean energy projects as possible become reality, it's essential that the program be adequately funded through FY2012.

Can you send a message to the President and Congress, letting them know how much good this program does for jobs and our energy future? It's too good to be allowed to die.

How to send a message:

1) (Simplest way): You can go to the Solar Nation advocacy site and enter your ZIP code.

2) You can copy and paste the message below into any or all of the following links to send it to:

a) the President:
b) your U.S. Senators:
c) your U.S. Representative:

Message:

The Department of Energy Loan Guarantee Program has enabled many vital renewable energy projects to obtain sufficient private investment to proceed; these include utility-scale solar power plants in the southwest and solar manufacturing facilities across the nation. It's a great example of a successful government program that is generating not only clean power but thousands of jobs for Americans.

The Department of Energy has now restricted loan guarantees only to those projects that can be ready by September 30, excluding dozens of worthy, viable clean energy projects from securing funding.

Please use your influence to provide appropriate funding to allow this successful program to continue. Good jobs and our energy future are hanging in the balance.

May Meeting Summary: SB 32 and Feed-In Tariffs

2011-05-16T12:08:00.000-07:00

Allison Arnold from Mitsubishi Electric and Electronics USA spoke with OC Renewables on Thursday, May 12. We had a good conversation about the implementation of SB 32 and the California Feed-In Tariff (FIT).

For a good summary of the passage and status of the FIT, visit the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency's write up of SB 32.

Allison indicated that SB 32's FIT would be available through the publicly owned utilities until the combined statewide cumulative capacity of eligible generation installed equals 750 MW, up from 500 MW. The maximum size of a renewable energy system is increased to 3 MW.

The tariff itself - and the price referent for calculating the tariff - is where the fight is happening now. It's very complicated. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has made a recent ruling (October 2010) for guidance on how the California PUC can set this tariff. Allison mentioned the name of Kevin Fox, a lawyer, working on these issues. The most comprehensive article I could find regarding what it all means can be read here: What Utility Involvement in the Distributed Solar Market Means For the Future of the Solar Industry.

So now the FIT is legal, and under consideration by the CPUC. The proceedings can be followed on the CPUC website. We at OC Renewables will keep track of this issue in the near future.

Finally, some links to share that Allison brought up in her presentation:

The Los Angeles Business Council's two studies regarding proposed FIT's
1. Designing an Effective Feed-in Tariff for Greater Los Angeles
2. Bringing Solar Energy to Los Angeles: An Assessment of the Feasibility and Impacts of an In-basin Solar Feed-in Tariff Program

California Solar Statistics Site. The official public reporting site of the California Solar Initiative (CSI).

Volunteer on a GRID Alternatives solar installation crew! Help make the benefits of solar power accessible to low-income families while learning new skills and having fun outside.

Great meeting! See you on Thursday, June 9 at the Duck Club

May Meeting: "Selling Your Power to the Grid"

2011-04-25T15:34:00.000-07:00

Thursday, May 12th
Speaker: Allison Arnold, Senior Manager, Marketing and Public Policy, Mitsubishi Electric and Electronics USA
Topic: "Selling Your Power to the Grid: The Latest on SB 32"
6:45pm Networking
7:00pm Speaker
Irvine Ranch Water District Duck Club
5 Riparian Way - Irvine, CA
** Enter off of Campus Drive (not Michelson) due to construction

FREE and open to the public!

In 2009 Governor Schwarzenegger signed Senate Bill 32, establishing a feed-in tariff for renewable energy facilities up to 3 megawatts in size. The law allows renewable energy system owners to receive payment from the local utility for electricity fed into the grid at a (yet-to-be-determined) fixed price over 10-20 years. A similar law helped make Germany (a country with less average sunlight than Seattle) a world leader in renewable energy. If implemented successfully, the law would boost California's distributed renewable energy generation capacity by 750MW. Join us at our May OC Renewables meeting, where Allison Arnold, of solar products manufacturer, Mitsubishi Electric, will explain how home and business owners can get paid for creating clean energy. You'll get an update on the rule-making process currently taking place at the California Public Utilities Commission, and find out how you can give your input as a stakeholder.

Allison Arnold, Solar Photovoltaic Division, Senior Manager, Marketing and Public Policy, Mitsubishi Electric and Electronics USA
Allison leads marketing, communications, and public policy for the solar photovoltaic products manufacturing business of Mitsubishi Electric and Electronics USA. She also heads the office Green Team, which helps employees adopt environmentally friendly practices at the company’s Cypress, California headquarters and in the community. Allison serves on a number of boards and committees in support of local and national deployment of photovoltaic technology, including the Board of the California Solar Energy Industries Association, the Executive Committee of the Solar Alliance, Grid Alternatives of Greater LA’s Advisory Council, and the Los Angeles Business Council. Prior to joining the solar industry, Allison worked in ocean conservation policy as a Program Officer for WWF in Wellington, New Zealand, and as a consultant to government agencies and environmental organizations in New Zealand and the U.S. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Earth Systems from Stanford University and a Master of Environmental Studies degree from Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand, where she studied as a Fulbright Scholar. During her career Allison has sought to advance policies that support environmentally sustainable technologies and policies..com

ASES, Sierra Nevada Brewery, and Five Thousand Dollars

2011-04-22T10:41:00.000-07:00

 We're so close to winning $5,000!
If you haven't already done it, sign the Sierra Nevada Earth Day Pledge today and then forward this email to all your friends and relatives. This will only take a minute and won't cost you a thing.

 It's a race to get the most votes and WE CAN WIN TODAY
 
 Earth Day Fundraiser for the Month of April

This Earth Day, Sierra Nevada is helping people get out for a good cause. For every person who takes an online pledge to get outside in April, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. will donate $25 to the American Solar Energy Society. The organization with the most votes will receive $5,000. Click here and select ASES from the list of supporting organizations. 
 
Take the pledge today!
 
Please forward this email to your friends and colleagues or visit ASES' Facebook page and share the post with all your Facebook friends.
 
There has never been a better time than right now to make nationwide solar power a reality.

Earth Day Event A Success!

2011-04-18T19:36:00.000-07:00

The Earth Day event was a big success! Team OC Renewables had a lot of fun at Crystal Cove State Park. We opted to remove a rusty trail fence, and after completing what they thought would take until noon by 10:30am, we removed another fence!

Next time (2012?), we need OC Renewables T-shirts! (Groups from Home Depot & SCE had matching shirts)

Here is an article from the OC Register. Wendy was in our group:
http://www.ocregister.com/news/park-296725-volunteers-state.html

OC Renewables Meeting Is An Earth Day Volunteer Event!!!

2011-04-08T15:09:00.000-07:00

Saturday, April 16

Friends and family invited to join the OC Renewables team for the annual California State Parks Foundation’s Earth Day 2011 Restoration & Cleanup.

*Registration required*
*Update: One Location - Crystal Cove*

For Crystal Cove, contact:
Dr. Lori Greene, lgreene@ocrenewables.org
___________________

Crystal Cove
Saturday, April 16, 8:30 am - 12:00 pm
Volunteers of all ages are needed at Crystal Cove State Park on Saturday, April 16th for the 14th annual California State Parks Foundation’s Earth Day 2011 Restoration & Cleanup. Projects include: removal and replacement of ½ mile of old rusty ranch fencing, planting coastal bluff plants and painting gates and curbs. Registration is required.
Location: Crystal Cove State Park in Laguna Beach. Check-in at Los Trancos parking lot (Pacific Coast Highway, turn inland at stoplight at Los Trancos).
Bring: Water bottle, sunscreen, hat, garden gloves, snacks
REGISTER: Dr. Lori Greene, lgreene@ocrenewables.org

Wind Powering America - Siting, Sizing, and Other Considerations for Distributed Wind

2011-04-04T10:06:00.000-07:00

Wind Powering America - Siting, Sizing, and Other Considerations for Distributed Wind

The American Solar Energy Society (ASES) Small Wind Division hosted a webinar to provide a general overview of small wind technology and 12-step program for a small wind project, covering topics including zoning, interconnection, and the economics of small wind.

The presentation can be found on the Wind Powering America.gov website.

Sierra Nevada Will Make a Donation to ASES on Your Behalf!

2011-04-03T09:57:00.000-07:00

This Earth Day, Sierra Nevada is helping people get out for a good cause. For every consumer who makes an online pledge to get outside in April, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. will donate $25 up to $2500 each to one of the following organizations, based on the consumer's preference. The organization with the most votes will receive $5,000.

Take the pledge! http://www.SierraUnplug.com

Enter the $10,000 CACI Fast Pitch Competition

2011-03-31T09:54:00.000-07:00

The California Clean Innovation Conference is now taking entries for the $10,000 Fast Pitch Business Competition.

Competition Summary
Five early stage, clean technology companies will be chosen from submittals received and given a platform to showcase their business ideas to a panel of industry-leading judges as well as all conference attendees, many of whom are also investors in the space. Additionally, the winner of the competition will receive:

$10,000 in cash
Free entry into the Cleantech Open at the "semi-finalist" level with the opportunity to compete for an additional $250,000 in cash and prizes! ($1,850 value!)
Recognition on the CACI website for the following year

For more information, visit the California Clean Innovation website.

OC Goes Green: County Programs Commended by Grand Jury

2011-03-28T12:55:00.000-07:00

Three County of Orange departments were lauded by the Grand Jury for their commitment to protecting natural resources and employing environmentally conscious practices. In a report titled “Orange County Goes Green,” the Grand Jury described the OC Waste & Recycling department as “one of the most cost-conscious agencies in the county – and one of the most respected in the nation.”

The report praised OC Waste & Recycling’s ability to capture methane gas from the County’s Frank R. Bowerman Landfill, convert it into liquid natural gas, and then sell it to power local bus and truck fleets. In addition, the department, which manages four Household Hazardous Waste Collection Centers, has successfully increased the diversion of self-hauled waste from the landfills by 70% through recycling outreach and the self-hauled waste surcharge.

The County Executive Office’s Procurement Department was also noted in the Grand Jury report for the development of the OC Green Fair, inspired by the Board of Supervisors’ adoption of an Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Policy.

Finally, the environmental stewardship efforts of John Wayne Airport (JWA) were also acclaimed in the report including the early implementation of water conservation, pollution prevention, energy efficiency, air quality, noise abatement and recycling practices.

For more details -

Read the Press Release, or the full Grand Jury Report.

Harris Poll: Americans Improve Energy Efficiency at Home. Knowledge of Energy Issues Remains Unchanged

2011-03-24T11:40:00.001-07:00

GetSolar.com directs us to a very timely Harris poll. While solar panel systems and wind farms have become increasingly ubiquitous over the past few years and the amount of clean energy sources in the U.S. has grown significantly, it is not translating into a better understanding of energy issues amongst Americans, according to a recently released study.

What Really Motivates Customers to Install Solar

2011-03-24T11:40:00.000-07:00

Interesting article that we wanted to share from GreenTechMedia. Not surprising to see that solar motivations are similar to most other buying decisions: price, reliability, and price again.

Click here to read this informative article.

EPA Study: Where You Live Matters More Than How You Live

2011-02-28T10:44:00.001-08:00

From Treehugger.com:

The paper finds that a home's location and access to transit -- in other words, its location efficiency -- are as important to reducing energy use as are energy-efficiency measures in homes and cars.

The Making of the Ultimate Eco-Friendly Technology Workspace - March 9/10

2011-02-27T17:29:00.000-08:00

AEF Consulting will host an open house demonstrating how they transformed a 1,700 square foot office warehouse into ten executive suites. The space you will be viewing is that of a property leasing company (Suites Pro, Inc.) that offers IT integrated and eco-friendly business suites. By implementing AEF’s eco-friendly construction and design principals, Suites Pro, Inc. has developed a green technology driven workplace that not only helps the environment, but provides one of the healthiest and most efficient working spaces to its tenants.
Feel free to stop by and witness the merging of technology, sustainability and property leasing.

There will be beverages and hors d’oeuvres: March 9th and 10th, 4pm-8pm 1260 N. Hancock Street #104, Anaheim, CA 92807

Click on to the flier to the left for more details.

ASES Small Wind Webinar - March 15, 1PM

2011-02-24T18:06:00.000-08:00

To Register, click on:

https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/620025136

Small Wind Turbines (SWT) are wind turbines with a rated capacity up
through 100 kW. Used for a diverse range of applications, SWT
technology has grown at a rapid pace becoming more readily available
for consumers and the general public. Whether used to display
environmental commitment, or to offset energy costs, SWTs have the
potential to make meaningful contributions to energy security,
strategic technology, and long-term economic growth in the United
States.

This webinar will provide a general overview of small wind technology
and 12-step program for a small wind project, covering topics
including zoning, interconnection, and the economics of small wind. A
small group of experts from the SW Division will be available to
answer questions from Chapter members.

Presenter: Trudy Forsyth

Trudy has worked in the wind technology field since May 1994 as a
leader of NREL's distributed wind turbine projects. Since 1995, she
coordinated efforts between the NWTC technical staff and U.S.
manufacturers for designing new small wind turbines and testing new
prototypes. Her work at NREL is also focused on midsize wind turbines.

Trudy serves on a number of US Boards and Committees in support of
distributed wind including the Small Wind Certification Council, the
American Solar Energy Society and the ASES Small Wind Division, the
North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners and on the
steering committee for Women of Wind Energy. She is also the
secretary for an international group of small turbine experts who
revised the IEC Small Wind Turbine Safety standard (61400-2).

Trudy has authored and co-authored technical conference papers on
small wind turbines, their design features, economics, and
commonalities in the U.S. marketplace between PV and small wind. She
has given numerous presentations to both international audiences and
the general public on distributed wind technology, economics, and
applications.

Call For Volunteers! OC Renewables Fundraiser

2011-02-16T19:58:00.000-08:00

We are in need of volunteers to be part of our Event/ Fundraising Committee. These volunteers will help us develop a strategy for our Summer Solstice Celebration event in June. Contact James Matarese for more details. Thanks!

Webinar - Energy Storage - Wednesday, February 23, 10am PST

2011-02-16T19:28:00.000-08:00

Interesting webinar coming up next Wednesday on energy storage.

Grid Energy Storage: Understanding the Market from the End User's Perspective
Join us and over 850 of your peers on Wednesday, February 23 for a free webinar with Josh Gould, Cleantech Group's Energy Storage Analyst, and Jim Kim of Khosla Ventures as they tackle the energy storage market from the end-user’s perspective.
After attending this webinar you will understand:

The State of Energy Storage: How to view and categorize the marketplace

The End User's Perspective on Energy Storage: Revealing the results of a new Cleantech Group survey

Key Cleantech Group Research Insights: What grid storage consumers really want

Investment trends and opportunities across market sectors

Costa Mesa Green Task Force Seminars

2011-02-16T08:00:00.000-08:00

The Costa Mesa Green Task Force are an action oriented coalition providing a network of resources that inspire residents, businesses and local government in Costa Mesa to adopt sustainable lifestyles and practices.

They are into their second weekly speaker and training series. Next Wednesday at 6 PM, they will discuss the following:

Wed, Feb. 23rd, 2011: Conscious Consumerism - The Real Costs of What We Consume

We vote with our pockets and every time we make a purchase, we cast a vote for the way things are. Join Jesse Baker, PhD from Ecofficiency and other speakers as we discuss and breakdown the true costs associated with the things we consume on a daily basis.

March Speaker - Samantha Simonnet

2011-02-15T16:28:00.000-08:00

Samantha Simonnet is the Founder and Managing Director of C-MONet, The Cleantech Management and Organization Network, a Cleantech & Sustainability Human Capital Consulting Firm.
Because Human Capital is an organization’s greatest asset, C-MONet unlocks its clients GREENOVATION potential starting with the most important component of the TRIPLE BOTTOM LINE: People. C-MONet addresses the energy workforce deficit through talent acquisition and talent management, building and shaping great teams and preparing global professionals for new heights of leadership. Samantha has extensive international organizational consulting, corporate training and executive coaching experience, acquired in Asia and Europe with leading outfits such as Boyden Executive Search & the Center for Creative Leadership Asian Research Institute. Samantha serves on the board of Cleantech Open, Cleantech Orange County and the Workforce Investment Board and teaches cleantech and sustainability at UCI and CSUF.
Presentation Title and Description
Just How Clean is Cleantech?
A recent article in GreenBiz.com dated Feb 2 2011 raised an interesting point that is gaining an increasing amount of attention: Just How Clean is Cleantech? There's a significant difference between clean technology and sustainable technology and as sustainability and carbon footprinting gain momentum, cleantech business models, deemed green and clean by essence, will be under as much if not even more scrutiny as “traditional” companies. Recognizing that sustainability and cleantech are not synonyms, the Cleantech Open, whose mission is to find, fund, and foster the big ideas that address today’s most urgent energy, environmental, and economic challenges, has developed a Sustainability Program which strives to highlight the relevance and promote the philosophy of sustainability throughout its activities. The primary goal is to give the tools and motivation to embed sustainability into every aspect of a company. The Cleantech Open sees cleantech as the end product or service, and sustainability as a key driver in determining the process to get to that end point. Join us to learn about the Cleantech Open, the benefits of entering the competition, how sustainability is now at the top of the judging criteria and why it matters.

Greening the World, One Project At A Time

2011-02-10T19:09:00.000-08:00

The California Center for Sustainable Energy has an excellent article in their newsletter this month.

You’re going to hear a lot about energy efficiency and home performance during 2011, not just from us at CCSE, but also from local municipalities, San Diego Gas & Electric and various energy-related businesses and contractors. That’s because there are several federally funded and state-mandated programs rolling out now and over the next few months to help us reduce energy use, save on utility bills and curb greenhouse gas emissions. Those are truly wonderful goals, but I believe the best part of these efforts is that energy efficiency can make your home life more comfortable.

Read more by clicking here.

Webinar: RETScreen Solar Thermal Tutorials

2011-02-09T20:20:00.000-08:00

From ASES and the New York Solar Energy Society:

The New York Solar Energy Society will present three RETScreen solar thermal tutorials for utilizing the software available from RETScreen Canada. At the same time NYSES will be preparing status reports on your experience with their software thanks to a grant from RETScreen. The American Solar Energy Society is providing the webinar time for NYSES.

What is this RETScreen software? Want to know how a solar hot water system will work for you? If you know the basic parameters of your location and how big your system needs to be you can find out the pay back time, the carbon off sets, and more. Watch our instructor, Dan Connors take you through a few examples. You won't need to take notes as the examples will be sent out after the tutorial.

How to sign up? Go to www.nyses.org and the RETScreen logo and fill in your registration information. Your invitation to join the webinar will be sent to you and you'll get reminders for your class.

Upcoming solar thermal tutorials:
February 10 at 6:30 pm (EST)
February 11 at 10:00 am (EST)
March 3 at 6:30 pm (EST)

A tutorial runs about 2 hours and 15 minutes and includes time for questions and answers. Your input is very important.

The RETScreen Conference for advanced workshops will be on June 20, 21, and 22 in Niagara Falls, Canada.

Join us!

Dan Connors, Instructor
President, Renewable Energy Strategies, LLC

*New York Solar Energy Society** - The solar resource network*
* 5270 Sycamore Avenue, Bronx, NY 10471-2838*
*www.NYSES.org*
*wyldon1@gmail.com*
*Mobile: 917 974 4606 FAX: 347 269 4141*
* NYSES is a chapter of the American Solar Energy Society*

LATimes: Fool's Gold Catches Eye of UCI Solar Energy Researchers

2011-02-03T10:29:00.000-08:00

Great article in the Los Angeles Times about solar research and technologies here in Orange County. Iron pyrite — also known as fool's gold — may be worthless to treasure hunters, but it could become a bonanza to the solar industry. The mineral, among the most abundant in the earth's crust, is usually discarded by coal miners or sold as nuggets in novelty stores. Read more by clicking here.

AB 920 Update

2011-01-20T10:53:00.000-08:00

Here at OCRenewables, we have eagerly anticipated the implementation of AB 920. Here's a great article from the Solar Home and Business Journal on the latest developments.

California Solar Owners to Start Gaining Payments for Net Surplus Generation

Some highlights from the article:

Although fewer than 10 percent of solar PV system owners are expected to be affected, and the compensation in most cases will be small, the frequency with which this question comes up demonstrates that it packs a symbolic wallop.
Conversations with hundreds of small-scale prospective solar owners suggest that a majority believe that they are entitled to be paid for excess generation at the highest retail price they pay the utility to provide electricity to them, not the wholesale price the utility pays conventional suppliers.

They aren’t going to get it, at least not yet.

Under a proposed decision by an administrative law judge in a proceeding before the California Public Utilities Commission, the compensation for net surplus generation is to be based on a formula suggested by Pacific Gas and Electric Co. that reflects short-term wholesale electricity prices. Because these prices vary, the plan calls for averaging out 12 months of daily fluctuations.
In 2009, the average price for Pacific Gas and Electric was a nickel per kilowatt-hour for energy purchased between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. The draft decision calls for adding a payment to the wholesale electricity price that reflects the cleaner-energy attributes of solar or other renewable generation. This amount is to be based on the average market price of renewable energy credits, which are not yet traded on a public market in California. Under other pricing mechanisms suggested by the utilities, the added compensation for cleaner energy could have ranged from about 1 to 3 cents per kilowatt-hour.

According to Pacific Gas and Electric, a total of 2,450 customers on net energy metering were net exporters of electricity in 2009. Of those, more than 40 percent had net surplus generation of only 100 kilowatt-hours or less annually. San Diego Gas & Electric Co. said it had fewer than 1,000 customers who would have been eligible for net surplus compensation, while Southern California Edison reported fewer than 1,500 would have been eligible. At 5 cents per kilowatt-hour, the average annual payment would have been less than $125 in the service areas of SCE and SDG&E, the proposed decision said.

We will continue to keep you posted on this important development as events warrant.

February Speaker - Kevin Ross

2011-01-18T19:33:00.000-08:00

Our next meeting will be held on Thursday, February 10, 2011 at the Duck Club in Irvine.

Topic:

Current status of California Solar Initiative (CSI) Rebates and Economic Viability of Commercial PV Projects in 2011 and Beyond.

Speaker Bio:

Kevin Ross manages commercial-scale and small utility-scale project development in California for SunPower’s Commercial Systems Division. Mr. Ross has developed many large commercial projects under various financing structures; Power Purchase Agreements, ARRA-supported Bonds, municipal tax leases, CEC loans, and direct procurement, including the 3.9 MW multi-site PPA project for Inland Empire Utility Agency in Chino, CA. Mr. Ross also manages Solar project development for the Water & Waste Treatment Industry in California, and remains an active associate of the Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA), having completed over 20 large projects, representing 20+ MWs in this market sector. He was directly responsible for starting up SunPower’s Southern California office located in Irvine, CA, currently staffed with Project Development Managers, Sales Analysts, Project Managers, and Construction Managers. Mr. Ross has over 24 years in specialty contracting and design engineering in the Semiconductor & Photovoltaic Industries, and holds BS degrees in Business Management and Manufacturing Engineering.

Duck Club Directions - Our Apologies

2011-01-14T11:09:00.000-08:00

Despite our best efforts to inform everyone of the new route to the Duck Club, it seems many of you had trouble getting to the location last night. We apologize for the inconvenience and will include a detailed map with our February event information. Thank you for your support and we look forward to seeing you in February.

January Speaker - Shawn Gehle

2010-12-22T22:04:00.000-08:00

OC Renewables is proud to announce our first speaker for 2011. Our next meeting will be held on Thursday, January 13, 2011 at the Duck Club in Irvine.

Topic:

“Consumers as Producers“
Motivators for Reconsidering our Aging Distribution and Consumption-Centric Energy Model

Speaker Bio:

Shawn Gehle has sought a diverse experience in his career, which includes professional practice and teaching in the U.S. and abroad, believing that cross-disciplinary interaction contributes to his rigorous methodology for thinking and making.

Having formerly worked for BNIM Architects, one of the nation’s most recognized sustainable design firms, Shawn was instrumental in leading the design direction of projects and introducing BNIM to emerging materials and technologies. During his tenure at BNIM he was an integral part of the design and research team that worked on The David & Lucile Packard Foundation headquarters in Los Altos, California, a project that was nationally recognized with awards in sustainability and applied research. The experience solidified his commitment to long term thinking and the consequences of designing in our fragile environment, while reaffirming his interest in multidisciplinary design teams as means of achieving a balance the between the art and science in architecture.

Since moving to Los Angeles in 2005, Shawn has continued his material and sustainability research, most recently as a contributor to Blaine Brownell’s book "Transmaterial 2: A Catalog of Materials That Redefine Our Physical Environment". A brief stint working at Clive Wilkinson Architects, found him working directly with creative workplace guru Clive Wilkinson, helping to shape his interest in color and the role of graphic design in architecture.

While working with Gensler, Shawn has balanced his time between projects and applied research ranging from the recently completed Ritz Carlton Hotel and Residences at L.A. Live to the creation of the Los Angeles Community College District’s pioneering Sustainability Guidelines.

Call For Presenters!

2010-12-11T20:50:00.000-08:00

We are looking for presenters to speak at future Orange County Renewable Energy Society (OC Renewables) chapter meetings. OC Renewables is the local chapter of the American Solar Energy Society. The Chapter's primary focus is to increase the intelligent use of solar energy, energy efficiency, and other sustainable technologies in Orange County. Made up of industry professionals, renewable energy providers, municipalities, and concerned citizens, the Chapter promotes the commercialization of renewable energy in order to facilitate its use in residential and commercial buildings.

The Chapter meets on the second Thursday of each month. The presentation topic should be in line with the organization’s vision and should consist of about 20 to 30 slides for a total presentation of approximately 30 to 45 minutes. Potential presenters are asked to email their bio and an outline of their presentation to info@ocrenewables.org.

Helpful Links

2010-12-11T15:27:00.000-08:00

OC Renewables is a chapter of the American Solar Energy Society. Established in 1954, the American Solar Energy Society is the nation's leading association of solar professionals & advocates. Our fellow ASES chapters in San Diego and Northern California are on the web and doing great things in their local communities.

We have broken down this page into different sections: Renewables Providers, Renewables-Friendly Businesses, Renewables Education, Renewables Non-Profit Organizations, and Green Marketers and Events. Our members belong to these organizations and give them our highest recommendation.

Renewables Providers

Mehr Solar has planned, designed, and delivered more than 3.7 megawatts of solar energy systems throughout the United States. Mehr Solar is an approved contractor by the Electric & Gas Industries Association of America, licensed by the the California State License Board in excellent standing and a member of the American Solar Energy Society and the Solar Energy Industries Association. Mehr Solar has certified engineers, designers, and installation crews on staff.

Renewables-Friendly Businesses

Canopy Energy Consulting is a full service energy management solutions provider. They specialize in helping homeowner’s gauge their home’s efficiency by performing a comprehensive energy assessment, reduce their energy usage and save money on their utility bills through efficiency upgrades. Canopy’s holistic approach to energy efficiency provides you with the tools you need to successfully reduce your carbon footprint.

KPR Consulting provides Structural and General Civil consulting services for Buildings and Non-Building Projects. As a strong advocate of implementing renewable energies, KPR provides green solutions for clients interested in environmentally friendly technologies.

Permaculture Properties is Orange County's Green Real Estate Sales and Marketing Specialist. Permaculture is headed by Evan Little. His services range from standard real estate sales and leases to specialized green real estate consultation.

BrightKnoll is a professional services firm focused on helping clients identify, plan, and execute initiatives to enhance profitability, increase customer reach, and improve business operations. Targeted results are achieved from the development of innovative ideas applied through business strategy, technology, and outsourcing.

One Block Off The Grid is a community-based program that organizes group discounts on residential solar panels.

Renewables Education

The Advanced Power and Energy Program (APEP) at UCI has had numerous demonstration projects. For example, the Center includes ZEVNET, a demonstration project with the City of Irvine with electric cars (with company and community participation), a Distributed Technology Testing Facility, a combustion lab which can test different fuels as well as other testing and evaluation capabilities (the center has had a solar panel system on its building since the mid-90’s and has capability of testing connections of systems to the grid).

The Center for Solar Energy at UCI is doing research in:

Metal-Semiconductor Hybrid Nanowires Utilizing Plasmonics for Concentrating Solar Radiation
Quantum Dot Solar Cells
Molecular Machines for Solar-Powered Photochemistry
Direct Solar Thermal-to-Electrical Energy Conversion using Thermoelectric Nanowires
Developing Sustainable Materials for Solar Energy Conversion

UCI also has an active student environmental community, with 11 different student clubs. One of those in particular is the Sustainable Energy Technology Club (SETC). The Sustainable Energy Technology Club is a student organization that promotes the inspiration, education, and application of sustainable ideas to students, particularly in science and engineering related fields. With the common theme of energy, club members will explore how science and technology can be used as a driving factor behind making changes in society with respect to a cleaner environment and less wasteful lifestyles. SETC will accomplish its goals by means of SETC's Energy Sustainability Seminar Series, monthly field trips or activities, and through the support of engineering student senior design projects where students are able to come up with their own solutions and to physically build or model them.

Allied Schools - Training for Green
At Allied, students can train to meet the growing demands of the renewables industry in a convenient, online environment. From the Business of Solar and LEED Green Building Practices to Advanced Principles of Photovoltaic Installation, Allied offers a variety of self-paced training courses create a strong foundation for students who are working towards taking certification exams, such as:

NABCEP Entry Level Certification (Allied is an Approved Provider of the NABCEP Entry Level Exam)

NABCEP PV Certification
RESNET Home Energy Survey Professional Certification
LEED Green Associate Certification Exam

After you complete training, Allied makes it easy to keep your credentials current. Allied offers online, self paced courses that have been approved by the USGBC, BPI, NABCEP and IREC for Continuing Education (CE) credits.

In addition to serving the needs of individual renewable energy students, Allied creates training solutions for companies in the renewables industry. Allied can supply your company with renewable energy graduates, as well as customized courses that meet the unique training needs of existing employees.

Allied is nationally accredited by the Accrediting Commission of the Distance Education and Training Council (DETC). With over 825,000 enrollments since 1992, quality online education is their specialty. Please visit www.training4green.com to learn more.

Renewables Non-Profit Organizations

The U.S. Green Building Council Orange County Chapter's mission is to engage all Green Building stakeholders to be the conduit of change for a more sustainable Orange County through innovative communication, education, resources and advocacy. We envision Orange County to be a vibrant place to live, learn, work and play. USGBC-OC promotes the integration of the built and natural environments to foster sustainable, healthy, and prosperous communities.

OC Renewables is also a big fan of the Solar Energy Industries Association. Since 1974, SEIA works to expand the use of solar technologies, strengthen research and development, remove market barriers, and improve education and outreach for solar. They are also home to the Solar Bill of Rights.©

The California Center for Sustainable Energy is a non-profit organization dedicated to Greening Your World®. They are based in San Diego. They have a number of free workshops and are a handy resource for all things renewable.

Green Marketers and Events

Three Squares Inc. believes in designing strategies that ensure sustainable growth, communicate your commitment to social responsibility and instill loyalty from your customers.

Cyberia Media tells your story. Video. Motion Graphics. Print. ID. Web. Events. Booth. Kiosk. iPhone. Regional. National. Global. Personal. An audience of one... thousand... million... No screen is too small... No audience too big.

Honest Conversation.com is an internet marketing firm in Costa Mesa. Honest Conversation builds custom sites, optimizes those sites with search engines, integrates those platforms in social networks, manages online campaigns, and helps improve the relationship your organization has with your customers. A part of Honest Conversation.com's profits are donated to CarbonFund.org.

Get Involved with an OC Renewables Committee

2010-12-11T14:20:00.000-08:00

OC Renewables is made up of the following committees with certain responsibilities. They are:

• Membership - Making sure that members are getting the most value of their membership in the organization.

• Education - Educating the public and stakeholders of renewable energy and energy efficiency.

• Advocacy - Advocating for public policies that advance the renewable energy and energy efficiency industry.

• Communications - Getting the word out about OC Renewables in Orange County and throughout Southern California.

Overview of OC Renewables

2010-12-11T13:58:00.000-08:00

Per the bylaws, the purpose of OC Renewables is to:

Promote wide utilization of renewable energy through such means as providing renewable energy education, promoting the application of renewable energy technologies, and acting as a renewable energy technologies expert resource for the people of Orange County, CA, thereby increasing public awareness of renewable technologies and insuring its proper application.

A copy of the bylaws of this organization can be found here.

ASES Holiday Gift Offer - Sustainable Gifts

2010-12-09T13:40:00.000-08:00

You may click on this logo for a PDF version.

Profit Plus Planet Conference - March 24-25, 2011

2010-12-06T20:54:00.000-08:00

OC Renewables is proud to sponsor the Profit + Planet Conference hosted by The Paul Merage School of Business at UC Irvine. The event will be take place at the Marriott Irvine on March 24-25, 2011. More info at www.profitplusplanet.com.

Long Beach Solar Grand Prix will be held on April 9, 2011

2010-12-06T16:13:00.000-08:00

Long Beach Councilwoman Gerrie Schipske is sponsoring the second Annual Solar Grand Prix (April 9, 2011) competition in which students, grade 6-12, are invited to design and build a solar-powered model car that will complete a race in the shortest possible time using the available power.

The Solar Grand Prix challenges students to use scientific know-how, creative thinking, experimentation, and teamwork to design and build high-performance model solar vehicles.
Teams will receive a Solar Car Kit, which includes a solar panel and an electric motor. Using any other materials, competitors will design and build a model solar-powered vehicle that will race on a 20-meter (65-foot) racecourse. The winner of the competition will be the team whose vehicle is the top finisher in a series of head to head elimination rounds.
For more information about the Solar Grand Prix, contact Jacob Sangiorgio, Neighborhood Liaison in the Office of Councilwoman Gerrie Schipske, 562-570-3102 or jacob.sangiorg@longbeach.gov

December 9 Holiday Mixer

2010-12-01T11:12:00.000-08:00

OC Renewables and the Young Professionals in Energy Holiday Mixer

Thursday, December 9th, 2010 at 6:30pm
Kimera Restaurant and Lounge located at
19530 Jamboree Road, Irvine CA.

*Complimentary Valet Parking

The Orange County Renewables Society (OC Renewables) and the Young Professionals in Energy (YPE) have teamed up for a Holiday Mixer! Join us for a casual networking cocktail party in a stylish setting at Kimera Restaurant and Lounge in Irvine.

For more information on Kimera, please visit their website at www.kimerarestaurant.com.

Contact info@ocrenewables.org or visit www.ocrenewables.org for more information.

Thanks to our partner!

Photo Gallery of Tesla Event

2010-11-12T09:21:00.000-08:00

Some photos to share of last night's event. More details about what Kyrstin Muson had to say coming soon. Enjoy!

November OC Renewables Meeting - Tesla Motors

2010-10-28T09:33:00.000-07:00

We have just announced details of our November monthly meeting. Kyrstin Munson of Tesla Motors will join us. Palo Alto, CA based Tesla Motors designs and manufactures Electric Vehicles (EVs) and EV powertrain components. Tesla Motors' goal is to produce increasingly affordable electric cars to mainstream buyers – relentlessly driving down the cost of EVs. It is currently the only U.S. automaker that builds and sells highway-capable EVs in serial production.

If you love beautiful cars of the future, you do NOT want to miss this event!

Mission Statement

2010-10-19T14:12:00.000-07:00

The Orange County Renewable Energy Society (OC Renewables) is a non-profit member organization and a local chapter of the American Solar Energy Society (ASES) founded to promote the use of renewable energy and energy efficient technology through education, outreach, and public policy advocacy.

Western Riverside, state Energy Commission battle over $33 million in energy-efficiency funds

2010-10-14T19:45:00.000-07:00

Western Riverside, state Energy Commission battle over $33 million in energy-efficiency funds

October OC Renewables Meeting Review

2010-10-14T15:29:00.000-07:00

Thursday, October 14, 2010
Speaker: James Matarese, Principal, Canopy Energy Consulting
Topic: Residential Energy Efficiency

James Matarese is an Energy Consultant and Principal of Canopy Energy Consulting, specializing in commercial, industrial and utility grade energy management solutions. He has over ten years experience working with utility, municipal, commercial and residential clients. Areas of expertise include building performance, sustainable design and renewable energy. His technical specialties include Energy Audits, Solar Thermal, Solar Electric (PV), Lighting Retrofits, Water Management, Electric Vehicle Charging Stations, Sales and Marketing.

James has worked with SCE, SDG&E and ten Southern California municipalities to implement the Community Energy Partnership (CEP), where he provided energy tune-ups for low income and small business customers. He has also worked with PG&E to perform energy audits on large commercial facilities in downtown San Francisco as part of the Business Energy Coalition (BEC) demand response program. By partnering with large facilities such as Bank of America Plaza, Transamerica Tower and Union Bank of California the BEC was capable of shedding up to 50 MW during times of peak demand.

Click above to access the presentation.

October OC Renewables Meeting - 10.14.10 7 pm

2010-10-05T14:32:00.001-07:00

James Matarese, Owner of Canopy Energy Consulting, will be our October meeting speaker!

Topic: Residential Energy Efficiency

When: Thursday, October 14. 6:45 pm Meet and Greet, 7:00 pm Meeting.

Where: Irvine Ranch Water District's "Duck Club" meeting room located at 5 Riparian View, Irvine CA. (Look for the OC Renewables Signs!!)

CleanTech OC - September 27, 2010

2010-09-08T13:38:00.000-07:00

OC Renewables members may be interested in this event:

CleanTech OC 2010
http://cleantechoc.org/conference/index.htm

CleanTech OC 2010 is the first annual conference and expo promoting economic growth in the Orange County clean technology industry, likely to be one of the most significant engines for job growth over the next decade. CleanTech OC 2010 will provide a forum for the exchange of ideas, information, and business opportunities among clean tech companies, government entities, and academia, including facilitating investment, joint business ventures, and other collaborations.

The 2010 conference will be held Monday, September 27, 2010, from 9:00am - 6:00pm at the Hyatt Regency Irvine, 17900 Jamboree Road, Irvine, CA 92614.

September OC Renewables meeting - 09.09.10 7pm

2010-09-08T13:35:00.000-07:00

Thursday, September 9, 2010
Speaker: Virginia Nicols, Corporate and Community Relations, EcoMotion
Topic: Making Sense of the Solar Deal: Top 10 Questions to Ask

Virginia Nicols, Certified Green Building Professional, is responsible for marketing and communications at EcoMotion. She has 20 years of business marketing experience, and ten years of promoting energy and water efficiency and solar power in Southern California cities. These projects have included city-utility partnerships funded by public goods funds. Virginia has managed communications efforts for partnerships involving Southern California Edison, Pacific Gas and Electric, Southern California Gas, and San Diego Gas & Electric.

Solar sales people, trainers and trainees, and potential purchasers of solar may pick up some pointers on September 9 that will keep a deal from going off the tracks. Over the past four years, as independent “owner’s representative,” Irvine-based EcoMotion has counseled hundreds of homeowners and dozens of businesses about the solar potential of their roofs and parking lots. EcoMotion helps compare bids and even draft RFPs so that all parties can make sense of the deal. Virginia Nicols, head of Corporate and Community Relations for EcoMotion, will identify TOP TEN MISTAKES to avoid when presenting – or comparing – a solar deal.

Recovery Act Propels 3 GW of Solar Projects in California

2010-09-02T11:06:00.000-07:00

From CleanTechnica:

Recovery Act Propels 3 GW of Solar Projects to Front in California

In a last-minute race to the finish-line, the CEC has approved a staggering 2,800 MW (or 3 GW) of solar projects this month in California. Click the link above to read the entire article.

A Tesla!!!

2010-08-31T21:20:00.000-07:00

This beauty showed up at a recent meeting. Thanks to Tesla Motors of Irvine for bringing it by!

Evan Little Profiled in Solar Today

2010-08-24T21:32:00.000-07:00

One of our members, Evan Little, was profiled in the July/August Edition of Solar Today, the magazine of the American Solar Energy Society. OC Renewables is, of course, the local chapter of ASES. Congratulations, Evan!

Click on the picture to read the article.

Westminster Green Expo

2010-08-21T19:03:00.000-07:00

The City of Westminster's 2nd Annual Green Expo is right around the corner!

When? Thursday, August 26,2010

Where? Civic Center, Sunken Gardens, 8200 Westminster Blvd., Westminster, CA

Who? Photovoltaic systems, electric cars, hydrogen cars, tankless water heaters, water conservation kits, cool roof, sustainable architecture, LEED Certified Point Systems, Whole House Energy Audit, AB811 Low Interest Financing, Organic Fruits and Vegetables, and Much More!

Cost? FREE

Seminar is from 1:30 to 3:30 pm on the CA Green Building Standards Code. Expo from 3:30 to 6:30 pm. Live Music at 6:00 pm by "The Music Factor" Delicious homemade food for purchase by local non-profit groups Abrazar, Inc. and Kiwanis Club of Westminster.

August 11 Meeting Review

2010-08-15T22:49:00.000-07:00

We had a

very good meeting on Thursday, August 11 with Jack Sahl, Ph.D. Director, Environment and Resource Sustainability at Southern California Edison. Here are some of the highlights.

Per capita use of power has stayed relatively the same since the 1970s.
Technology is so much better with vehicles than even five years ago
End to end life cycle assessments help SCE prioritize. Conducting these assessments will be one of the most fun professions of the future.
As citizens and interested persons in renewables and power, we must get involved in the PUC proceedings.
SCE is focusing on the following areas in the near future: Renewables and Storage Integration, Grid Control and Asset Optimization, Workforce Effectiveness, Smart Metering, and Energy Smart Customer Solutions

Smart Grid: California Solar Associations Push for Feed-in Tariffs

2010-08-13T08:49:00.000-07:00

Smart Grid: California Solar Associations Push for Feed-in Tariffs

Feed-in Tariff programs from a Smart Grid perspective. Interesting stuff and wanted to share.

Thanks to you all for an excellent meeting last night!

Westminster Green Expo on Thursday, August 26

2010-08-09T18:13:00.000-07:00

The City of Westminster will host their 2nd Annual Green Expo on Thursday, August 26. The seminar on Cal Green Building Code starts at 1:30 pm. The expo starts at 3:30 pm and runs until 6:30. More information can be found here:

http://www.westminster-ca.gov/depts/cd/building/green_events/green_expo.asp

Hope to see you there!

Helpful Links Page Overhaul

2010-07-29T15:16:00.000-07:00

The OC Renewables Helpful Links page went through a major overhaul today. This page strives to be the one-stop center for green and renewables in Orange County. If you would like to see your organization on here, contact us for more details.

Federal Lenders Threaten National PACE Loans. But is their logic sound?

2010-07-13T12:15:00.000-07:00

It was a topic of discussion at last week's OC Renewables meeting that lenders Freddie Mac & Fannie Mae could jeopardize national Property Assessed Clean Energy loan programs (PACE loans). PACE loans allow private property owners to pay for energy efficiency upgrades (such as solar installation) through their monthly property tax bills, thus avoiding the steep up-front expense and keeping the fees associated with the house rather than the individual making the upgrades. PACE programs have been successful in towns across the country. But Freddie & Fannie may put an end to PACE:
"...[T]he two government-chartered agencies that buy and resell most home mortgages are threatening to derail the effort by warning that they might not accept loans for homes that take advantage of the special financing." -- NY Times: "Loan Giants Threaten Energy-Efficiency Programs"
The logic is that if the property owner takes advantage of a PACE program, but later defaults on their mortgage and the house remains unsold and must be federally "bailed out", taxpayers could be left holding the bill. (For more on the local credit crisis, check out our neighbors at Irvine Housing Blog.)

But Grist reports that property owners who have taken advantage of PACE programs are actually 11% LESS likely to default on their homes than the national average.

Grist also reports that successful PACE participants are taking action. The Long Island town of Babylon is suing Fannie and Freddie over this threat to PACE loans, because their Long Island Green Homes program has enabled 300 homeowners to invest more than $3M in energy-efficiency retrofits.

What can we do? WRITE TO YOUR CONGRESSIONAL REPRESENTATIVES.

Says Grist:
Long Island Rep. Steve Israel (D) and other members of Congress are considering introducing legislation to resolve the dispute, but there's no guarantee a bill would pass through Congress's busy schedule any time soon (or ever).

Free Webinar on Tuesday, July 13 10 AM PDT: Clean Energy Federal Legislation

2010-07-09T09:27:00.000-07:00

To register, visit www.efficiencycouncil.org/webinar

OC Renewables Meeting: July 8th, 6:30pm

2010-07-06T14:20:00.000-07:00

We'll be having a BBQ and hearing from Phil Hodgets, City of Westminster.

Irvine Ranch Water District's "Duck Club."
5 Riparian View, Irvine CA. (Look for the OC Renewables Signs!!)

Please join us!

State & Municipal Loans Make Solar Affordable for Californians

2010-07-06T13:34:00.000-07:00

The LA Times published an article this week about Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE). This is a program in which homeowners don't have to pay the price up front for solar panels. Rather, a small fee is added to their property taxes, which residents pay off over many years. The assessment (and energy savings!) stay with the house even if the owners move.

Says Gary Gerber, President of the California Solar Energy Industries Association:
"Let's say you replace your $100 utility bill with a $100-a-month payment to your property taxes — it's pretty close to a wash," said Gerber... "And if it isn't a wash this year, then two or three years from now it will be, because energy costs are going up.

California is one of 19 states that have passed PACE legislation. On Earth Day 2010, Governor Schwarzenegger signed SB 77, authored by Senator Fran Pavley (D-Santa Monica). According to the Governor's website, SB 77 enables commercial and residential property owners to make energy upgrades using bonds and/or loans that can be repaid through their property tax bill. Up to $30 million will be available for California's PACE Reserve Program.

The LA Times article tells the story of one happy PACE participant, Ed Smith of Santa Rosa:

[Smith] figures his property taxes rose $100 a month while his electric bill has dropped as much as $300 a month over the last four months.

"It's been totally fantastic," Smith said. "We'd been wanting to do something green. I've been recommending it to my neighbors. It would be a great thing for schools to do since they have flat roofs that catch a lot of sun. Plus school districts need to save money."

Tune in to future OC Renewables posts & meetings -- we are working to bring local experts in to tell us how to take advantage of these new incentives.

Full article:
PACE loan program makes solar energy more affordable for homeowners - latimes.com

May OC Renewables Meeting - Economics of Solar Thermal

2010-05-13T15:32:00.000-07:00

Thursday, May 13, 2010

Speaker: Dr. Burkhard von Spreckelsen, President of Valliant Solar Systems, Inc.
Topic: Economics of solar thermal under the new California incentive CSI Thermal and Solar-Thermal PPA

Click above to access the presentation.

Speaker for April 8th Meeting

2010-03-26T10:56:00.000-07:00

OC Renewables is proud to announce that Dr. Darr Hashempour will be speaking at the next regular meeting on Thursday, April 8 at 6:45 PM.

Dr. Hashempour is one of the pioneers in our industry and an authority in clean energy, renewables and Green power. He has been with fortune 500's for many years and is the founder of Expedient energy and co-founder of Omni Power, both headquartered in Orange County.

We will meet at the Duck Club once again. Click here for a Google Map. Looking forward to seeing you on the 8th!

Webinar on AB811 financing

2010-03-16T20:57:00.000-07:00

Looks like a good presentation this Wednesday at 9 AM. Hat tip: Dix Henneke

Dear California Efficiency First Supporters,
Please register here for a California-focused webinar this Wednesday, March 17, at 9am PST to learn about upcoming home performance property assessed clean energy (PACE) financing (aka Assembly Bill 811). Presenters will include:
•   Steven Schiller, Board Chair, California Energy Efficiency Industry Council (webinar Co-host)
•   Kelley McKanna, Project Manager, Renewable Funding (PACE administrator for San Francisco, San Diego and Los Angeles Counties and 14 counties for the California First Program)
•   Mark Fischer, Sr. Vice President of Operations, The Grupe Company (home owner services)
•   Doug Donovan, Director of Residential Services, Greener Dawn (sustainability advisors)
In addition, Panama Bartholomy, who is an Advisor to the Chair of the California Energy Commission will discuss California-related workforce development issues.
Please sign-up for the webinar by registering here: https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/852286730
Efficiency First wants to make sure our California supporters gain key insights into how to best leverage PACE legislation and related initiatives to expand business and become a leader in the industry.
California is ramping up its home energy efficiency incentives programs, so please join us for this webinar to hear the latest.

March OC Renewables Meeting - Introduction to Concentrated Photovoltaic

2010-03-11T15:34:00.000-08:00

Thursday March 11, 2010

Speaker: Adam Plesniak, Lead Engineer - Boeing Solar Energy Team
Topic: Introduction to Concentrated Photovoltaic

ASES Board Member speaking in Los Angeles

2010-03-10T21:58:00.000-08:00

The Los Angeles Section of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers presents:

LA ASME January Presentation:
“Are Renewables Enough to Avoid Hitting the
Climate Change Wall”

At The Metropolitan Water District, Conference Room 101.
Thursday, March 18th, 2010, 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
All ASME members, student members, public, engineering students and teaching staff are invited.
Plenty of free parking is available.

Prior to the presentation there will be a short business meeting of the LA Section Executive Committee.

Topic: Solutions to the dual crisis of peaking global oil production and global warming will be presented. Nine non-carbon energy options are considered and we will see how they stack up against the goal of an 80% reduction of carbon emissions by 2050. Superseding the technical issues is the inability to reach policy support long enough to support solutions to a century long problem. The concept of “energy tribes” is borrowed from the cultural anthropologists as an aid in understanding the nature of the conflicts over energy perceptions and policy. An attempt is made to find a way to use the conflicts to fashion an approach to a solution. This presentation is taken from the book, Hitting the Wall: A Vision of a Secure Energy Future.

Speaker: Richard Caputo, author of Hitting the Wall: a Vision of a Secure Energy Future. He obtained his MSME at Carnegie-Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and his BME at Manhattan College, New York City, New York. Richard has retired after 25 years as an engineer at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory of Caltech and has been a mediator who has done court mediations in three states. He is currently on the Board of Directors of the American Solar Energy Society and is active in the San Diego Chapter.

Directions:
Fwy 110: Drive to downtown LA, Take 101 South Fwy and exit at Alameda East to the Union Station.
Fwy 5: If going North, take 101 Fwy and exit at Alameda East. If going south, take Fwy 10 exit to downtown, and then Fwy 101 and take Alameda East exit.
Fwy 10: Drive to downtown LA, take 101 North Fwy and exit at Alameda East to the Union Station.

Park anywhere in the underground garage (it’s after hours so there is plenty of parking). Take an elevator to the lobby, and register at the Lobby guard desk. The Meeting is in the MWD Conference Room 101 on the Lobby level, diagonally across from the guard desk.

Pasted Graphic

AB 920 update

2010-03-10T10:27:00.000-08:00

From our good friends at CleanTechnica...

AB 920 now gives solar homeowners two additional options for the excess kilowatt-hours in our credit at the end of the year. We now have the option of rolling over month-to-month indefinitely – banking credits for later, when we can finally buy an electric car, maybe! – or we can take the cash at the end of each year. (The exact cash amount won’t be finalized by the CPUC till By January 1, 2011.)
So, if you are installing solar this year, you should feel free to overbuild your solar system, because now you can be paid cash (or rollover credits) for the excess. But be sure to sign up for one or other of the new end-of-year credits options with your solar estimator. Otherwise, per DSIRE: “If the customer makes no affirmative election for either option, the utility will be granted their NEG at the end of the 12 month period with no compensation to the customer”.
OC Renewables will be keeping a close eye on this going forward. Keep us posted as well if and when you hear the latest!

Meeting Thursday (Tomorrow) Night!

2010-03-10T10:25:00.000-08:00

Just a friendly reminder that OC Renewables meets tomorrow, Thursday March 11th, 2010 7pm (6:45 meet & greet).

Speaker: Adam Plesniak, Lead Engineer - Boeing Solar Energy Team

Topic: Introduction to Concentrated Photovoltaic
Location: Irvine Ranch Water District's "Duck Club" meeting room located at
5 Riparian View, Irvine CA. (Look for the OC Renewables Signs!! They look like the OC Renewables logo!!)

Contact ocrenewables@gmail.com for details.

Solar Buildings Panel Webinar on March 4

2010-03-01T22:46:00.000-08:00

Join us for a Webinar on March 4

Solar Buildings Panel

Space is limited.
Reserve your Webinar seat now at:
https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/566867801

The ASES Solar Buildings Technical Division will present a panel of distinguished solar scholars who will present a wide range of topics on solar buildings. They will also focus on questions asked by ASES members throughout the country. The panelists and the areas they initially discuss are:
     -  Vikram Sami (of Lord Aeck Sargent) – Solar Energy in Buildings: Why its important and what resources are available.
      -  Michael Bendewald (of RMI) – Environmental Footprinting: including a demonstration of Greenfootstep (RMI’s Footprinting web based program)
      -  Walter Grondzik (of BSU) – Commissioning Green Buildings
      -  Tom Butler (of LAS) –  CFD analysis of a historic farmhouse

After answering questions related to their short presentaions, these panels will address questions received from ASES members that were sent in the run up to this event. Send questions to ChaptersQ&A@ases.org

Please forward this invitation to your chapter and subchapter boards and members. Thanks.

Title:

Solar Buildings Panel

Date:

Thursday, March 4, 2010

Time:

10:00 AM - 11:30 AM MST

After registering you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the Webinar.

System Requirements
PC-based attendees
Required: Windows® 2000, XP Home, XP Pro, 2003 Server, Vista

Macintosh®-based attendees
Required: Mac OS® X 10.4 (Tiger®) or newer

Richard Caputo
Board Chapter Representative
ASES Board of Directors

Upcoming Lecture at UCI

2010-02-24T21:46:00.000-08:00

A.G Kawamura, the Secretary of California's Department of Food and Agriculture, will speak at UCI's Engineering Hall Auditorium.
His topic is "The Nexus Between Energy, Water, and Agriculture in the State of California."

5 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, March 3
Engineering Hall Auditorium (Building 308, UC Irvine Campus)
There is no cost to attend the lecture, but we do ask that you R.S.V.P. to Jana Santiago at js@apep.uci.edu no later than 5 p.m. on Tuesday, March 2.

Thank You!

2010-02-12T10:17:00.000-08:00

Thank you to everyone who turned out for our February chapter meeting of the Orange County Renewable Energy Society! It was nice to see such a diverse crowd with industry professionals, policy makers and concerned citizens represented.

Also, a special thank you to Dr. Lori Greene of UCI’s Center for Solar Energy for presenting such a complex subject matter in a way that we can all understand! Click here for a copy of her presentation.

Next Chapter Meeting – March 11, 2010 @ 7pm (6:45pm meet & greet). Our presenter will be Adam Plesniak, Lead Engineer. Boeing Solar Energy Team. The meeting will be held at the Irvine Ranch Water District's "Duck Club" meeting room located at 5 Riparian View, Irvine CA.

March Challenge! Please help us spread the word about OC Renewables! Our success depends on the support of each and every one of you. We challenge you to invite as many friends, family members and co-workers as possible for our March 11th chapter meeting. The person who can get the most people to attend will receive a special prize (to be determined). We’ll track everyone’s success through the sign in sheet at the meeting.

Thank you again and we look forward to a successful 2010!

James Matarese

President

OC Renewables

February OC Renewables Meeting - Overview of Solar Technologies

2010-02-12T09:41:00.000-08:00

Thursday February 11, 2010

Speaker: Dr. Lori Greene, Director of Research Development and Outreach
UC Irvine Center for Solar Energy

Dr. Lori E. Greene received her Ph.D. in Materials Chemistry from the University of California, Berkeley. Her dissertation research focused on nanotechnology and solar energy conversion. Her Nanowire Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells paper is now one of the most cited articles in Nature Materials, a premier peer-reviewed journal. At UCI, Dr. Greene is the Research Development Officer and Outreach Coordinator for the Center for Solar Energy in the School of Physical Sciences and leads the development of grant proposals, the graduate student lunch forum on solar energy, and university activities and community outreach programs relating to solar energy and other green technologies.

Click above to access the presentation.

Helpful Links updates

2010-02-08T21:54:00.000-08:00

We've updated the links page with some interesting renewable items going on here in Orange County. It will serve as a one-stop resource for all things renewable. Feel free to add some of your favorites!

Hello!

2010-01-25T20:55:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the ocrenewables.org blog! We'll have something soon for you in the next few weeks. Stay tuned.....