International News: Solar Panel Thefts Heating Up

This is kind of an odd alternative energy story, but we thought you might enjoy it.

From National Public Radio:

Solar panels are a hot commodity, and not just for residents and businesses that want to go green. It turns out that thieves also embrace clean technology. Solar panel thefts are on the rise, and the most popular targets include California wineries. What a disappointment. You’re a vintner. You’re sitting there, the thieves leave the bottles of wine alone and take the panel.

For more info on the thefts (and possible motivations), listen to the broadcast (or read the transcript) here.

ONLINE, Spring 2010

For Credit, must be admitted to WTAMU

Undergraduate: ET 4395-70, Research/Problems
Graduate: ET 6392-70, Seminar/Engin Tech

Continuing Education, ENRGY 1000-01, 4.5 CEU units, Cost $720

Enroll through Continuing Education,  Dec 16 – Jan 20 or call 806-651-2037
How to Register and Pay (THROUGH CONTINUING EDUCATION)

Under Topic Code, select ENRGY Renewable Energy, then click submit.
Click in the box, then [...]

AEI is looking for an Alternative Energy research technician. An associate in tech required, but a BS is preferred.
A criminal history report will be obtained on position finalists. WTAMU is an EO/AA employer. Applicants must be registered with selective service to apply. Applicant should apply online and attach resumes, references, etc., to the online application [...]

Texas A&M’s AgriLife has a great write-up our own Dr. Vaughn Nelson and the future of Wind Energy…
Texas farmers and ranchers likely will see more opportunities come about in the future when it comes to wind energy, according to a Texas A&M System expert.
Dr. Vaughn Nelson, professor emeritus and director of the Alternative Energy Institute [...]

AEI appreciates the donation of $1,000 by The Texas Solar Energy Society (TXSES) to the Starcher-Nelson Renewable Energy Scholarship.
TXSES in a non-profit with a long history of solar energy and renewable energy outreach education. Founded in 1976, TXSES has been serving Texas for more than 30 years, and has developed a national reputation due to [...]

AEI has been given $75k by the Amarillo Economic Development Commision for its new test center at the Nance Ranch. The check was presented by Bryan Jennings. The money will be used to help AEI relocate from our current location to the new center. Moving to the test center will be done in November. The [...]

Here is a clip from The Daily Show, interviewing William Kamkwamba (now 22) an who built a wind turbine out scraps in Africa.

The Daily Show With Jon Stewart
Mon – Thurs 11p / 10c

William Kamkwamba

www.thedailyshow.com

Daily Show
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You can find out more about Kamkwamba and his book here.

The Washington Times published an article by AEI’s Vaughn Nelson about how we can curb our dependence on foreign oil. Here is an excerpt:
Every president since Richard Nixon has touted energy independence; however, neither presidents nor Congress had the fortitude to require the sacrifices from the American people necessary for a rational energy policy.
Politically, even [...]

We’ve got a new staff member here at AEI… student worker, Sunny Bhatia!

From West Texas A&M University’s web site, breaking news about AEI and wind energy education at WTAMU:
With more than 65 years of research experience in renewable energy  between them, it’s no surprise that Dr. Vaughn Nelson and Kenneth Starcher are establishing the Starcher—Nelson Renewable Energy Scholarship for students at West Texas A&M University.
The two men, [...]