Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology have discovered a simplified way of constructing electricity-producing “biophotovoltaics”, removing the need for sophisticated lab equipment. Custom chemicals are mixed with green plant matter to create photovoltaic material. This material then produces an electric current via minute structures within plant cells called photosystem-I (PS-I), typically responsible for photosynthesis.

 

Currently the resulting solar cells convert 0.1% sunlight energy into electricity and needs to be improved tenfold before it becomes useful. In future though, a farmer in a remote village will buy a bag of PS-I stabilising chemicals, mix it with the green by-products of his farming, paint the mixture on his roof and use the energy it generates to power his lights.  

 

Electric car maker Tesla’s new Model S hits US roads in the second half of this year and will be available in 40, 60 and 85 kWh battery options. Going for the latter should provide owners with a solid range of about 480 km, whilst also enabling the standard model to go from 0 to 100 km/h in under six seconds on to a top speed of 200 km/h. 

 

Those in need of more go can opt for the performance model, which impressively gets to 100 km/h in less than 4.5 seconds. Unlike internal combustion engines the Tesla’s engine’s only moving part is its rotor.

 

Pricing begins at $49 900 (about R379 000), but unfortunately it does not appear as if it will grace local shores in the foreseeable future.   

 

 

 

We often write about energy efficient cars, but how about a greener coastal car carrier? Nissan has unveiled just that in the Nichioh Maru. Compared to a conventional carrier of the same type, the Maru can achieve a fuel reduction of up to 1400 tons annually, which also converts to an annual reduction of 4200 tons of carbon emissions.

 

This eco ship’s deck boasts over 200 solar power panels, removing the need for it to have a conventional diesel generator. The energy produced by these panels is used to power its LED lighting system. Other eco measures include a low friction coating on the hull of the ship which, coupled with its electronically controlled diesel engine, enables the Maru to be more fuel efficient.

 

 

 Other interesting green news

 

New solar panel start-up hits 33.9% efficiency: bit.ly/newsolarpanel

NASA offers reward for green propellant: bit.ly/nagreen

London Bridge goes green with efficient LEDs for 2012 Olympics: bit.ly/bridgelights