Best of December: Alternative Energy Websites and Blogs

It was an exciting month for solar energy stocks, windpower investments and investing in geothermal energy!!! Here are a few December posts that will continue to find value as investors look for the most promising stocks of 2008:

* Solar Energy Investing, Solar Power Stocks News

* NYC Mayor Bloomberg promotes microturbine energy

* Investment ideas for 2008: Wind, Geothermal, Hydropower

* Current CPNLQ shareholders to be offered warrants

* Geothermal Power Companies - Publicly-traded geothermal energy stocks

* Hydrogen Fuel Efficiency company Hy-Drive (TSX-V: HGS)

* SPWR and MMA: build America's largest PV solar array

* China's Goldwind Sci & Tech IPO - new windpower stock

* New Canadian technology purifies natural gas

* Global Alternative Energy Stock components

* Q-Cells (CQEG) investing in thin-film solar energy technology

* Transcript of Brad Pitt interview on Larry King, re New Orleans

* Green Power Conferences slated for Barcelona, New York City

* Investors List of Windpower stocks

* Publicly-listed Solar Energy Companies

* Best of SolarIntell.com NOV07 - Alternative Energy Investing Websites

AND, please welcome the newest entry into the category of best renewable energy investing websites: Geothermal Energy Investing Websites and Blogs
Checl also:

Bees Trees Frogs Elephants; Nature, Science and Ecology Blog

Solar Intelligence Blog - Green Energy as a Path to Peace

Bourne believes solar energy technology approaching tipping point

Investments in alternative energy technologies and models of innovation.

article from: Bourne To Be Wild

How do we cut through the hype in the varied landscape of alternative energy technologies? From time to time, there is a lot of excitement about a great NY Times article on Solar Power technology.

Here’s Vinod Khosla’s talk on the topic:
http://www.technologyreview.com/player/08/01/MagBiofuels/3.aspx

Interesting point to note about all similar articles on Nanosolar:

1. The good news: Germany has placed huge bets on coal energy. Its dependence on coal fire plants is similar to that of the US. A serious investment like that in Germany could correlate to investments in the US.

2. The articles don’t mention what folks eventually live and die by in technology- TCO. $1 per watt sounds like zero TCO. Storage is critical too. The good news: Khosla’s talk covers this point of view. So someone has that figured out to a degree.

3. Of course, just as investments in solar power are improving cost and efficiency, investments in (recent bad boy) ethanol and coal technologies are improving the cost and efficiency of those sources of energy. Non polluting coal power plants have 35% efficiency on coal. Solar energy based approaches of the type mentioned in the article hope to get there by 2011. Anyone betting on breakthroughs (safety, TCO, etc.) in nuclear power?

While multiple approaches to the energy crisis are the only way forward, it is really going to boil down to models of innovation. Or is it?

Full article continues at: Solar Energy Technology Models

Solar Energy Investing, Solar Power Stocks News

SolarIntell.com brings you info on Renewable Power Stocks, Green Energy Funds, Alternative Energy Investments, clean fuels research, info on solar power, renewable energy mutual funds, solar power companies websites, geothermal energy investing, green energy funds, windpower stocks, co-generation and alternative energy investments.

Energy Bill, Oil Prices Spike Drive Up 'Clean Energy' ETFs


article from: http://money.cnn.com/news/newsfeeds/articles/newstex/IBD-0001-21922625.htm

Dec. 28, 2007 (Investor's Business Daily via CNN)

Keeping it clean recently has translated to keeping the profits rolling in for many investors.

Those who put their money behind "clean" energy companies, which focus on renewable resources, saw the happy results all week.

Several factors were behind the rise. Last week, President Bush signed the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 into law. The bill mandates lowered fossil fuel use and quadrupled alternative biofuel use over the next 15 years.

Exchange traded funds that track clean energy (NASDAQ:CLNE) began to rise immediately after the bill became law. The largest and oldest, PowerShares WilderHill Clean Energy PBW, jumped nearly 10% during that time. Almost half the fund, which has an IBD Relative Strength Rating of 94, is invested in alternative energy sources.

Some of the WilderHill fund's largest holdings include Sunpower SPWR, Suntech Power Holdings STP and Yingli Green Energy YGE, all of which hold a 99 RS.

Other ETFs

Similar funds, such as First Trust (NYSE:FGB) (NYSE:FMY) (NYSE:FAM) (NYSE:FEO) (TSX:FHT.UN) Nasdaq Clean Edge US Liquid Series Index Fund QCLN, Market Vectors Alternative Energy GEX and PowerShares Clean Tech PZD also rose nicely after the bill was signed.

The uptick for all the funds continued Wednesday after a Chinese government report announced that the country plans to increase renewable energy consumption to 10% of total energy consumption by 2010 and 15% by 2020. The 44-page report said China will promote development of hydropower, solar, methane, wind and other renewable energy sources and increase their market shares.

Article continues at: Green Exchange Traded Funds Rise on News, Legislation

More solar energy news stories, alternative energy investing websites, renewable power stocks, green energy mutual funds and solar power stocks:


Technical Analysis of SunPower Corp (SPWR), at AskStockGuru.com

Market Vectors Global Alternative Energy ETF (GEX): GEX Alternative Energy Fund Holdings


Interview with NOAH BLACKSTEIN, Stock picks for 2008

Manager of Dynamic Power Global Growth Class (global equity)

Mr. Blackstein is upbeat on global stock markets for 2008 despite expectations of slower growth. "There is a risk of a recession [in the U.S.], but I think that the actions of the central banks will stave it off," said the manager with Dynamic Mutual Funds Ltd.

Co-ordination among central banks to cut interest rates and take measures to increase liquidity "will buoy the stock markets next year," he said.

Mr. Blackstein is also upbeat because his growth investing style - out of favour since the Internet bubble popped seven years ago - has come back into vogue. In an economic slowdown, investors will pay up for growth, he said.

"I think this is the beginning of a multiyear cycle for growth," said Mr. Blackstein, who buys companies that can deliver above-average revenue and earnings growth.

He likes U.S. technology stocks and alternative energy companies in Europe. "The shift to alternative energy is a big, long-term secular growth trend," and will continue to play out next year, he said.

Mr. Blackstein owns stocks of alternative energy companies like Q-Cells AG; SolarWorld AG, Vestas Wind Systems AS and First Solar Inc., a big driver for his fund this year.

He is less sanguine about the emerging markets coming off a strong year. But he owns a few names in the wireless telecom sector, including China Mobile Ltd. and India's GTL Infrastructure Ltd.

Research In Motion Ltd. is his only Canadian stock. "The smart phone revolution, of which RIM and Apple are at the forefront, has a very long way to go," he said.

Full article and interviews with managers of PETER HODSON, manager of Sprott Growth Fund F series (Canadian small/mid cap), MARK MOBIUS, from Templeton BRIC Fund F series (emerging markets), CHRIS BEER, fund manager for RBC Global Resources Fund (natural resources), and NANDU NARAYANAN, CI Global Opportunities and CI Trident Global Opportunities (alternative strategies), who each provide their 2008 investment outlook, best stock opportunities

CPST news; Capstone announces 1 megawatt microturbine system

Capstone Announces First Megawatt Microturbine Solution
Wednesday December 12, 5:00 am ET

CHATSWORTH, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Capstone Turbine Corporation (www.microturbine.com) (NASDAQ:CPST - News), the world’s leading clean technology manufacturer of microturbine energy systems announced today the C1000, the world’s first megawatt microturbine solution.

The new robust megawatt power systems, based on Capstone’s C200 microturbine product line, can be configured into 1,000 kW, 800 kW and 600 kW solutions in a single 28-foot-long ISO container. Other benefits include:

- Low greenhouse-gas emissions

- Patented air-bearing microturbine technology

- Easy to install and commission -- single fuel and electrical connection

- Minimal scheduled maintenance and downtime

- Low noise and vibration

- One of the industry’s smallest modular footprints

Additional features include Capstone’s remote monitoring and diagnostic capabilities, and integrated utility synchronization and protection. Comprehensive Factory Protection Plans are available.

“This is another important technical achievement for Capstone as we will be able to effectively compete in megawatt scale projects and therefore double our addressable market,” said Jim Crouse, Capstone Turbine Corporation’s Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing.

“The C1000 platform applies the same dependable technology found in our proven 30kW and 65kW products,” said Darren Jamison, Capstone’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “We believe the C1000 will be well received in the United States and abroad and reinforce our commitment to provide customers one of the most environmentally friendly distributed generation products available.”

Every installed C1000 Capstone MicroTurbine solution is equivalent to removing up to 700 average U.S. passenger vehicles from the road, based on EPA emissions and efficiency data for the average US power plant and average passenger vehicle, or the equivalent of 730 acres of pine and fir forest, based on CO2 reductions.

About Capstone Turbine

Capstone Turbine Corporation (www.microturbine.com) (NASDAQ:CPST - News) is the world's leading producer of low-emission microturbine systems, and was the first to market commercially viable microturbine energy products. Capstone Turbine has shipped over 4,000 Capstone MicroTurbine® systems to customers worldwide. These award-winning systems have logged millions of documented runtime operating hours. Capstone Turbine is a member of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Combined Heat and Power Partnership, which is committed to improving the efficiency of the nation’s energy infrastructure and reducing emissions of pollutants and greenhouse gases. A UL-Certified ISO 9001:2000 certified company; Capstone Turbine is headquartered in the Los Angeles area with sales and/or service centers in New York, Mexico City, Milan, Nottingham, Shanghai and Tokyo.

“Capstone Turbine Corporation” and “Capstone MicroTurbine” are registered trademarks of Capstone Turbine Corporation. All other trademarks mentioned are the property of their respective owners.

This press release contains "forward-looking statements," as that term is used in the federal securities laws, about the benefits of our new C1000 product and new sales opportunities for Capstone globally for the new C1000 product. Forward-looking statements may be identified by words such as "expects," "objective," "intend," "targeted," "plan" and similar phrases. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous assumptions, risks and uncertainties described in Capstone's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission that may cause Capstone's actual results to be materially different from any future results expressed or implied in such statements. Capstone cautions readers not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this release. Capstone undertakes no obligation, and specifically disclaims any obligation, to release any revisions to any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this release or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

NYC Mayor Bloomberg promotes microturbine energy systems, on-site power generation

December 3, 2007
www.NYC.org

MAYOR BLOOMBERG CREATES NEW RULE, MAKING ON-SITE POWER GENERATION TECHNOLOGY AVAILABLE FOR RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS

Standard for Safe Use and Installation of Energy-Efficient Microturbine Systems Will Enable Owners to Participate in PlaNYC Goal of Increasing Clean Power Generation

Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg today announced a new rule setting the country's first standard for the safe use and installation of microturbine systems in residential and commercial buildings. Microturbines are highly efficient turbine generators that recover and reuse the wasted heat of their own combustion process, after producing electricity and heat for a building, to provide energy for other building operations. By reusing heat that would otherwise be exhausted into the atmosphere, microturbines greatly increase the usable energy produced by fossil fuels, reduce carbon emissions, and provide building owners opportunities for operational cost savings. The new rule was published in today's City Record and takes effect immediately.

"I want to thank the Cogeneration Task Force, lead by Buildings Commissioner Patricia Lancaster and Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta, for the serious attention they've given this issue and for coming up with a rule that will allow for the use of microturbines in buildings here in New York and to ensure that they are safely and properly installed," said Mayor Bloomberg. "This rule will help us to meet our commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions citywide by 30% between now and 2030, and it will help spur the real estate and development communities to build more efficient, greener projects moving forward."

Buildings in New York City generate 79% of the city's greenhouse gas emissions. By supplying on-site power generation to buildings, microturbine systems provide an energy-efficient supplement to power plants, New York City's conventional power supply. Estimates show, for a given amount of fossil fuel, microturbines generate 70 to 80 percent of its usable energy, whereas only 30 to 35% of the energy produced by power plants is usable.

"Microturbines allow buildings to generate a portion of their own electricity in a clean and efficient manner. Owners who take advantage of microturbine technology will help distribute clean power generation throughout the five boroughs, which will in part address the clean energy needs of New York's dense urban community," said Buildings Commissioner Lancaster. "Through our public-private partnership formed under the Cogeneration Task Force, we have set a standard for the safe use and installation of micrortubine systems where no standard existed before. We look forward to continuing our partnership to develop safe regulations for next-generation technology that will make New York City more sustainable."

"The Fire Department is proud to have been part of the Cogeneration Task Force that has reviewed and approved the use of microturbine systems," said Fire Commissioner Scoppetta. "This new technology offers improved energy efficiency in buildings, while maintaining our city's high standards for public safety."

The market for on-site power generation technology has expanded in recent years as residential and commercial building owners demanded new ways to lower building operational costs and provide back-up energy in the case of power losses. While regulations exist for microturbine systems used in manufacturing buildings, no major US city has regulated the safe use and installation of microturbines in residential and commercial buildings until now. The new rule enables building owners to take advantage of microturbine technology, which will help the City reach its PlaNYC goal of expanding clean distributed power generation citywide.

"The use of microturbines to generate electricity on site at commercial and residential buildings benefits us all," said Real Estate Board of New York President Steven Spinola. "Because of the efficiency of these systems, New Yorkers will breathe cleaner air and building owners will save on operating costs. We can also add needed electric generation capacity without further taxing the transmission and distribution systems."

"Distributed generation of energy is crucial to making New York a greener and more sustainable city," said Douglas Durst, Co-President of The Durst Organization. "By producing electricity on site and capturing waste heat to make hot water, microturbines are critical to increasing the efficiency of buildings and reducing the City's carbon foot print. I thank Mayor Bloomberg, Deputy Mayors Skyler and Doctoroff and the Buildings and Fire Department for their cooperation and foresight and look forward to working with them on implementing this new rule."

"Today's announcement by Mayor Bloomberg represents another important step in moving towards increased use of co-generated electricity in our homes and offices. In the coming years, all new developments should be using this more efficient and cleaner way to cool and heat our buildings," said Ashok Gupta, Air & Energy Program Director, Natural Resources Defense Council.

Under the new rule, microturbine systems approved by nationally recognized testing laboratories can be installed at residential and commercial buildings in various locations, including within weatherproof enclosures at grade or on roofs and within mechanical rooms built with 2-hour fire-resistance rated walls. To install approved microturbine systems, a building owner must receive clearance from the utility company and file an application with the Buildings Department. Once a permit is obtained and the system is installed, an owner must obtain a permit from the Fire Department to operate it.

Investment ideas for 2008: Wind, Geothermal, Hydrogen, Alternative Energy Stocks

Humanikind,

Here are some long-term investment ideas to consider for 2008. As a Canadian, 2 well-run firms worth considering are Tim Hortons ( THI quote from Morningstar) and TD Bank (TD Quote from Marketwatch.com. I have no idea what will happen to the two stocks over the next year, but if you invest in companies like these two, over the long term you will likely have increased dividends plus capital gains.

Alternative energy investing in renewable power technology companies is more high risk, especially now that some players are into early bubble territory. What will happen to the sector if oil falls to $70, 60, 50 40 ... ? That could create a short-term selling panic in clean energy stocks, and a subsequent buying opportunity, but the opposite may occur if oil rises to $110 or $120 or more.

Here are some companies worth investigating further:

Vestas Wind (VWS / VWSYF) is the No. 1 producer of modern clean energy; with a 28 per cent market share, and 33,500 wind turbines installed.

Hy-Drive Technologies Ltd. (HGS) is a hydrogen-based energy and power technology firm that has developed a patented Hydrogen Generating System (HGS). The HGS generates, on-demand, and injects small amounts of hydrogen gas into the combustion chamber of a regular internal combustion engine creating an enriched air mixture and a more complete and faster burn of the air-fuel mixture. The result is reduced emissions and improved fuel efficiency and torque.

The initial application of Hy-Drive’s technologies is its proprietary "on-board" hydrogen and oxygen gas generation and injection system for internal combustion engines, the "Hydrogen Generating System" or "HGS". The initial target markets for Hy-Drive are the existing commercial diesel-powered trucks and buses in the "after-market".

Suzlon Energy SUZL The world of wind power is growing at a phenomenal pace. Projections put the average growth of the industry at over 25% for the next five years. Suzlon is at the leading edge of this growth.

Xantrex Technology Inc (TSX.V: XTX) is a world leader in the development, manufacturing and marketing of advanced power electronic products and systems for the distributed, mobile and programmable power markets.

Capstone Turbine Corp. (NASDAQ: CPST) Capstone Turbine Corporation is the world's leading producer of low-emission microturbine systems.


Geothermal Power Stocks; Geothermal Energy Investing:


Green Rock Energy ASX: GRK

Green Rock Energy Limited is engaged in the pursuit of geothermal energy resources and the development of low-emission, base load, renewable energy in Australia.

Green Rock Energy company website


Nevada Geothermal Power Inc NGLPF

Nevada Geothermal Power Inc. (NGP) is engaged in the business of developing renewable geothermal energy projects in Nevada and Oregon.

Nevada Power company website

Google Finance stock quote: NGLPF

Ormat Technologies Inc ORA

Ormat Technologies company info, profile on Reuters

ORA stock quote from Fool.com

Polaris Geothermal TSX: GEO

Polaris is a renewable resource company currently focused on the development of renewable energy in Latin America. Polaris is currently developing a 66 MW geothermal project on its San Jacinto Tizate concession in Nicaragua.


Polaris Geothermal company website

Sierra Geothermal Power Corp CA;SRA


Sierra Geothermal Power official website


U S Geothermal Inc UGTH


US Geothermal, UGTH company info

Western GeoPower Corp CA;WGP

Western GeoPower Corp. company website


WFI Industries Ltd CA;WFI

WFI stock quote on Yahoo Finance


View also: Solar Intelligence Blog; Clean Energy, World Peace

Current CPNLQ shareholders to be offered warrants for 10% of re-org

SAN JOSE, Calif. and HOUSTON, Dec. 21, 2007 (Canada NewsWire) - Calpine Corporation (OTC: CPNLQ) announced today that as part of its Sixth Amended Joint Plan of Reorganization (the "Plan"), it will issue warrants to purchase approximately 50 million shares of its new common stock, or about 10 percent of the common stock to be issued pursuant to the Plan, to holders of its currently outstanding common stock. Each warrant will represent the right to purchase a single share of Calpine's new common stock. The exercise price per share has not yet been determined, but it is expected to be based on a stipulated reorganized equity value of $11.942 billion. For illustrative purposes, assuming the issuance of 500 million shares on the effective date, the exercise price would be $23.88 per share. The expiration date of the warrants will be Aug. 25, 2008 or the date that is six months after the effective date of the Plan, which ever is later. No fractional warrants will be issued and no cash in lieu of fractional warrants will be distributed. The warrants will be transferable, but they will not be listed on any exchange.

The specific number of warrants to be issued, the exercise price and expiration date have not yet been determined. In addition, the exercise price, when issued, is intended to be "out-of-the-money," although the extent to which it is or is not "out-of-the-money" will depend on the market price of the new Calpine common stock, which can not be known at this time. There can be no assurance that the warrants will be "in-the-money" at any time prior to their expiration date.

The currently outstanding shares of common stock will be cancelled on the effective date of the Plan and will no longer represent an interest in Calpine Corporation.

About Calpine

Calpine Corporation is helping meet the needs of an economy that demands more and cleaner sources of electricity. Founded in 1984, Calpine is a major U.S. power company, currently capable of delivering nearly 24,000 megawatts of clean, cost-effective, reliable, and fuel-efficient electricity to customers and communities in 18 states in the U.S. The company owns, leases, and operates low-carbon, natural gas-fired, and renewable geothermal power plants. Using advanced technologies, Calpine generates electricity in a reliable and environmentally responsible manner for the customers and communities it serves. Please visit http://www.calpine.com for more information.

Forward Looking Statement>>

In addition to historical information, this release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section 21E of the Exchange Act. We use words such as "believe," "intend," "expect," "anticipate," "plan," "may," "will" and similar expressions to identify forward-looking statements. Such statements include, among others, those concerning our expected financial performance and strategic and operational plans, as well as all assumptions, expectations, predictions, intentions or beliefs about future events. You are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and that a number of risks and uncertainties could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: (i) the risks and uncertainties associated with our Chapter 11 cases and Companies' Creditors Arrangement Act (CCAA) proceedings of certain of Calpine's Canadian affiliates, including our ability to successfully reorganize and emerge from Chapter 11; (ii) our ability to implement our business plan; (iii) financial results that may be volatile and may not reflect historical trends; (iv) seasonal fluctuations of our results; (v) potential volatility in earnings associated with fluctuations in prices for commodities such as natural gas and power; (vi) our ability to manage liquidity needs and comply with covenants related to our existing financing obligations and anticipated exit financing; (vii) the direct or indirect effects on our business of our impaired credit including increased cash collateral requirements in connection with the use of commodity contracts; (viii) transportation of natural gas and transmission of electricity; (ix) the expiration or termination of our power purchase agreements and the related results on revenues; * risks associated with the operation of power plants including unscheduled outages; (xi) factors that impact the output of our geothermal resources and generation facilities, including unusual or unexpected steam field well and pipeline maintenance and variables associated with the waste water injection projects that supply added water to the steam reservoir; (xii) risks associated with power project development and construction activities; (xiii) our ability to attract, retain and motivate key employees; (xiv) our ability to attract and retain customers and contract counterparties; (xv) competition; (xvi) risks associated with marketing and selling power from plants in the evolving energy markets; (xvii) present and possible future claims, litigation and enforcement actions; (xviii) effects of the application of laws or regulations, including changes in laws or regulations or the interpretation thereof; and (xix) other risks identified from time-to-time in Calpine's reports and registration statements filed with the SEC, including, without limitation, the risk factors identified in its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006 and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. Actual results or developments may differ materially from the expectations expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements and Calpine undertakes no obligation to update any such statements. Unless specified otherwise, all information set forth in this release is as of today's date and Calpine undertakes no duty to update this information. For additional information about Calpine's chapter 11 reorganization or general business operations, please refer to Calpine's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2006, Calpine's Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and any other recent Calpine report to the Securities and Exchange Commission. These filings are available by visiting the Securities and Exchange Commission's website at http://www.sec.gov or Calpine's website at http://www.calpine.com.

SOURCE: Calpine Corporation

Media Relations, Mel Scott, +1-713-570-4553, scottm@calpine.com, or Investor
Relations, Norma Dunn, +1-713-830-8883, ndunn@calpine.com, both of Calpine
Corporation

Calpine Corporation Web Site

Press Release on Calpine Corporation Warrant Offering

Geothermal Power Stock List - Publicly-listed geothermal energy investments

Find info on geothermal power investing, geothermal energy stocks, geothermal stocks list, publicly-traded geothermal energy companies.



Calpine Corp CPNLQ

Calpine is poised to exit bankruptcy
JUDGE APPROVES PLAN TO PAY OFF CREDITORS WITH NEW STOCK
By Christopher Scinta
Bloomberg News
Article Launched: 12/20/2007 05:35:43 AM PST

Calpine, which filed the largest U.S. bankruptcy of 2005, won approval Wednesday for its plan to pay off creditors with new stock and emerge from federal court protection.

Unsecured creditors will receive stock worth about 97 percent of what they are owed by Calpine, a San Jose-based power producer that generates enough electricity for about 19.2 million homes.

The ruling by U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Burton Lifland leaves Calpine poised to emerge from bankruptcy before Feb. 7. The company reached a deal with creditors and shareholders to set the value of the new Calpine at $18.95 billion and give shareholders warrants to buy stock.

"I do find justification for the settlement that's come along," Lifland said, adding the $18.95 billion figure was close to what he had determined the company was worth.

The company earlier this week cut a deal with the committees representing its unsecured creditors and shareholders to fix a value for the company and give the shareholders a recovery in the case.

Full article at Calpine stock news: Emerging from bankruptcy

Calpine stock quote Google Finance

Green Rock Energy ASX: GRK

Green Rock Energy Limited is engaged in the pursuit of geothermal energy resources and the development of low-emission, base load, renewable energy. In South Australia, the Company has seven geothermal exploration licences (GELs) totalling 2,897 square kilometres and two GEL applications surrounding Olympic Dam Mine and the Roxby Downs township.

Green Rock Energy company website


Nevada Geothermal Power Inc NGLPF

Nevada Geothermal Power Inc. (NGP) is engaged in the business of developing renewable geothermal energy projects in Nevada and Oregon. The Company and its wholly owned subsidiary Nevada Geothermal Power Company (NGPC) hold leases on four projects: Blue Mountain, Pumpernickel and Black Warrior, all located in Nevada and Crump Geyser located in Oregon. As of January 16, 2007, the Company had not commenced commercial operations.

Nevada Power geothermal company website

Google Finance stock quote: NGLPF

Ormat Technologies Inc ORA

Ormat Technologies company info, profile on Reuters

ORA stock quote from Fool.com

Polaris Geothermal TSX: GEO

CORPORATE PROFILE

Polaris is a renewable resource company currently focused on the development of renewable energy in Latin America. Polaris is currently developing a 66 MW geothermal project on its San Jacinto Tizate concession in Nicaragua.

The San Jacinto Tizate concession contains two resource sectors, known as the eastern and western sectors. Preliminary reports from Polaris engineering consultants Sinclair Knight Merz indicate that the entire resource area, the mean capacity is estimated to be 277 MWe, with a 90% probability that the resource capacity will be greater than 203 MWe. Within that total, the eastern resource is estimated to have a mean capacity of 86 MWe and a 90% probability of being greater than 67 MWe. Polaris has rights to develop additional concessions.

Polaris Geothermal company website

Sierra Geothermal Power Corp CA;SRA


Sierra Geothermal Power official website


U S Geothermal Inc UGTH


US Geothermal, UGTH company info

Western GeoPower Corp CA;WGP

Western GeoPower Corp. company website


WFI Industries Ltd CA;WFI

WFI stock quote on Yahoo Finance


Please view also:

Geothermal Energy Investing - List of Companies


Solar Intelligence; Renewable Energy, Music, Peace


Bees Trees Frogs Elephants Enviroblog; Nature, Ecology, Science, Habitat

EarthFirst (TSX:EF) buying 144 megs of wind turbines from Vestas, for Dokie Ridge, BC

EarthFirst buys 48 Vestas V90 3 MegaWatt wind turbines for Dokie Ridge project in BC, Canada


VICTORIA, BC, Dec. 17 /CNW/ - EarthFirst Canada Inc. ("EarthFirst") (EF, EF.WT; TSX) is pleased to announce that it has placed an order with Vestas-Canadian Wind Technology Inc. for 48 of its V90-3.0 MW wind turbines to be installed at EarthFirst's 144 MW Dokie Ridge project located in the Rocky Mountain foothills of the Peace River region in north-eastern British Columbia, Canada.

LDK Solar revenue up 60%, profit up 40%; conference call audio avail til 24dec07

December 19, 2007

LDK Solar Reports Financial Results for the Third Quarter 2007

Xinyu City, China and Sunnyvale, California, December 19, 2007 – LDK Solar Co., Ltd. (NYSE:LDK), a leading manufacturer of multicrystalline solar wafers, today reported its unaudited financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2007.
All financial results are reported on a U.S. GAAP basis.
Third Quarter 2007 Financial Highlights:

* Revenue of $158.7 million, up 60% quarter-over-quarter
* Gross profit of $48.9 million, up 40% quarter-over-quarter
* Net income of $41.6 million, or $0.37 per diluted ADS, up 45% quarter-over-quarter
* Signed four long-term wafer supply agreements during the third quarter
* Total wafer shipments increased 49% sequentially to 78.9MW in the third quarter

Net sales for the third quarter of fiscal 2007 were $158.7 million, up 60.2% sequentially from $99.1 million for the second quarter of fiscal 2007, and up 404.7% year-over-year from $31.5 million for the third quarter of fiscal 2006.
Gross profit for the third quarter of fiscal 2007 was $48.9 million, up 40.2% sequentially from $34.9 million for the second quarter of fiscal 2007, and up 295.1% year-over-year from $12.4 million for the third quarter of fiscal 2006.Gross margin for the third quarter of fiscal 2007 was 30.8% compared with 35.2% in the second quarter of fiscal 2007 and 39.4% in the third quarter of fiscal 2006.
Net income for the third quarter of fiscal 2007 was $41.6 million, or $0.37 per diluted ADS, compared to net income of $28.7 million, or $0.29 per diluted ADS for the second quarter of fiscal 2007, and $5.0 million, or $0.04 per diluted ADS for the third quarter of fiscal 2006.
The Company ended the third quarter of fiscal 2007 with $125.9 million in cash and cash equivalents.
“We are pleased to report strong results for the third quarter, following a positive outcome of the independent inventory review,” stated Xiaofeng Peng, Chairman and CEO of LDK Solar.“With the inventory investigation behind us, we have returned our focus to growing our business.During the third quarter we experienced continued robust demand for our wafers and made great strides in expanding our customer base.We signed four long-term wafer supply contracts during the third quarter and five more since the quarter closed. We view these agreements as a testament to the quality of our products.
“We remain on track to meet our wafer production capacity goal of 400MW by the end of 2007. Additionally, the construction of our polysilicon plant is tracking with our original plan.In addition to the anticipated cost efficiencies we expect to achieve upon completion of our polysilicon plant, we are continuing cost reduction efforts through further advancements of our product processes,” concluded Mr. Peng.
Business Outlook
The following statements are based upon management's current expectations. These statements are forward-looking, and actual results may differ materially. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these statements.
For the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007, LDK estimates revenue to be in the range of $180 to $185 million for wafer shipments of 87 to 92MW.The Company also estimates fully diluted earnings per ADS to be in the range of $0.40 to $0.43.
Conference Call Details
The LDK Third Quarter teleconference and webcast is scheduled to begin at 6:00 p.m. Eastern Time (ET), on Wednesday, December 19, 2007. To listen to the live conference call, please dial 800-366-7449 (within U.S.) or 303-262-2193 (outside U.S.) at 5:50 p.m. ET on December 19, 2007. An audio replay of the call will be available to investors through December 24, 2007, by dialing 800-405-2236 (within U.S.) or 303-590-3000 (outside U.S.) and entering the passcode 11104747##.
A live webcast of the call will be available on the company's investor relations website at investor.ldksolar.com.

Scott Edward Anderson LOVES his solar energy stock portfolio

The Sun will always shine on its little sister, Earth. Well at least until it enters the asymptotic giant branch of a planetary nebula phase in about 7.8 billion years. (You think global warming is bad now? Trust me, you don't want to be around for the sun's nebula phase and the boiling rivers.)

Meanwhile, however, there is growing interest in harnessing the Sun's energy for the purposes of continuing life on Earth. And solar power, once de rigeur for unwashed hippies and counter-culture, off-the-grid, back-to-the-landers. And Libertarians. Did I forget to mention Libertarians?

Anyway, we've been pimping solar plays here on The Green Skeptic for some time, and it seems the sun is shining all over these days. Some of my favorite investor/pundit-type dudes, like Howard Lindzon and Jim Cramer, are getting frothed about it, and even private plays like Nanosolar are getting attention for its "buck a watt" solution.

Despite the fact that Congress excluded alternative energy incentives from its Energy Bill, which I thought might actually hurt solar plays, these stocks and companies seem to be on the rise. And this is a good thing: for the economy, for the environment, and for investors.

As Howard put it yesterday: "This is the beginning, not the end, of solar energy. Very exciting times. If you get mucked up focused on the averages and the financials, you will miss all the great new trends just beginning."

Read Scott's solar power stocks including FSLR, CSUN, AMAT, STP, VSE, SPWR, SHCAY, WFR and CSIQ at The Green Skeptic - Agent for Social Change

Schaeffer likes FSLR despite PE of 178, cites proft growth

article from:

http://www.bloggingstocks.com/2007/12/18/best-stocks-for-2008-first-solar-fslr/

Our favorite speculative play for 2008 is First Solar (NASDAQ: FSLR)," says Bernie Schaeffer, editor of Schaeffer's Investment Research.

"First Solar is a specialized semiconductor company that is a play on the alternative-energy theme. FSLR designs, manufactures and sells solar electric power modules. With a price-earnings (P/E) ratio of 178 and the stock posting gains of nearly 700% in 2007, investors in FSLR should expect a potentially wild ride.

"Despite the 'internet bubble-like' appreciation in the stock, we think the trend can continue, as this is a company with actual earnings and its share of naysayers. The skepticism is an indication that there is sideline buying power that can drive the equity even higher in the months to come.

"FSLR's third-quarter earnings report was spectacular. Net income of 58 cents per share easily topped Wall Street's estimate of 19 cents per share, sending the stock soaring on the news. The year-over-year earnings growth rate in the third quarter was an outstanding 729%.
"But impressive earnings and strong price action have not been enough to convince the shorts. Since its IPO in November 2006, short interest has increased from 920,000 shares to the current six million shares.

"Short interest as a percentage of float is a whopping 32%. Further price appreciation could send the shorts scrambling to cover their positions, keeping the current uptrend intact as we move through 2008."

JANCO advise proft-taking on ESLR autumn run-up

JANCO downgrades Evergreen Solar (Nasdaq: ESLR) from Buy to Market Perform with a $16 price target.

Article from: http://www.streetinsider.com

JANCO downgraded Evergreen Solar stock (Nasdaq: ESLR) from Buy to Market Perform with a $16 price target.

The firm called Friday's 10% run-up an overreaction to the 10-year polysilicon supply contract announcement. JANCO also noted that Evergreen's stock price has gone up by about 44% since 10/31. Over the same period, shares of SunPower (Nasdaq: SPWR), a leading competitor, have only appreciated by about 1.4%.

JANCO said it believes in Evergreen's management and downgraded the stock solely on valuation and a difficult market environment.

Evergreen Solar, Inc. engages in the development, manufacture, and marketing of solar power products primarily in Europe and the United States.

Hydrogen Fuel Efficiency firm Hy-Drive (TSX-V: HGS) lands new CEO

Hy-Drive Announces Appointment of New President and Chief Executive Officer

TORONTO, ON, December 18, 2007 – Hy-Drive Technologies Ltd. (TSX-V: HGS) is pleased to announce the appointment of Hugo T. Sorensen to the position of President and Chief Executive Officer effective January 2, 2008. Mr. Sorensen brings to Hy-Drive a wealth of proven executive leadership experience in both the private and public company sector. Most recently, Mr. Sorensen served as President and Chief Executive Officer of a high performance multi-division TSX listed company with revenues in excess of $1.5 billion.

“We are delighted Hugo has elected to join Hy-Drive at this important time in our Company’s history,” stated Dan Doucette, Hy-Drive’s Chairman of the Board of Directors. “Hugo’s background experience, proven leadership ability and impressive track record of facilitating top and bottom line Company growth will expectedly bring significant value to our Company as we enter 2008.”

“I’m excited to join Hy-Drive to help the Company facilitate commercialization and growth of its hydrogen generating system technology,” stated Mr. Sorensen, “I look forward to building on the Company’s existing foundation at Hy-Drive and to advance the potential of generating solid returns for our shareholders”.

Pursuant to the Company’s stock option plan, and as part of Mr. Sorensen’s compensation package, he will be issued options to purchase 1,000,000 common shares at $1.00 per share which will vest in three different tranches over the next 18 months and expire ten years after the date of grant, with the second and third tranches becoming exercisable only if the company's share price reaches targets of $2.12 and $4.24 per share respectively.



About Hy-Drive



Hy-Drive is an energy technology firm that has developed a proprietary, patented hydrogen generating system. The Hy-Drive system generates and injects hydrogen gas into a regular internal combustion engine, enhancing the combustion process by allowing fuel to burn more efficiently and completely. For further information, visit www.hy-drive.com.

SPWR and MMA: build America's largest PV solar array at Nellis Air Force Base

USA's Largest Solar Photovoltaic Energy System Takes Flight at Nellis Air Force Base

Public-Private Partnership Makes Solar Practical, Enhances Energy Independence, and Reduces CO2 Emissions by 24,000 Tons per Year

(CSRwire) LAS VEGAS, Dec. 17 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Today the U.S. Air Force celebrates the completion of North America's largest solar photovoltaic system at Nellis Air Force Base. A joint project of the U.S. Air Force, MMA Renewable Ventures, LLC, a subsidiary of Municipal Mortgage & Equity, LLC (NYSE: MMA), SunPower Corporation (Nasdaq: SPWR), and Nevada Power Company, the 14 megawatt Nellis solar energy system will generate more than 30 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of clean electricity annually and supply approximately 25 percent of the total power used at the base, where 12,000 people live and work.

Combining technology and systems expertise from SunPower Corporation and financing by MMA Renewable Ventures with discounted purchase commitments by the U.S. Air Force, the innovative Nellis solar energy system demonstrates that the U.S. government's goals for enhancing security through energy independence can be met both economically and practically when the public and private sectors work together.

SunPower Corporation designed and built the photovoltaic power plant using its proprietary single-axis SunPower(R) T20 Tracker solar tracking system which follows the sun throughout the day and delivers up to 30 percent more energy than traditional fixed-tilt ground systems.

Equally innovative is the funding and ownership of the landmark solar energy system: MMA Renewable Ventures, LLC has financed and will operate the solar power plant, selling electricity to Nellis Air Force Base at a guaranteed fixed rate for the next 20 years. Nevada Power will support the project by purchasing Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) generated by the solar array. MMA Renewable Ventures closed a fund for the system earlier this year with financing commitments from Citi, Allstate, and John Hancock Financial Services, with Merrill Lynch providing construction financing.

Dignitaries such as Air Force Assistant Secretary William Anderson and Nevada Governor Jim Gibbons will flip a switch marking full operation of the system at a ceremony to be held today at the Nellis base. A team including MMA Renewable Ventures, SunPower Corporation, and Nevada Power Company will join public officials in recognizing the United States Air Force for its commitment to national security, energy independence and environmental sustainability.

"This solar project at Nellis is a first step of many toward making renewable electricity integral to the operations of the U.S. Air Force," said Assistant Secretary Anderson. "As the largest consumer of energy in the federal government, the Air Force is well-positioned to promote both solar technology and new approaches to its implementation. This pioneering initiative is a good example of how a creative approach to public-private partnership can make our energy supply more sustainable, more secure and more affordable."

"The best way to secure a healthy and prosperous economy is to develop our affordable, reliable local resources," said Governor Gibbons. "With these 14 megawatts, Nellis Air Force Base is leading the country in solar energy deployment, a move that is good for the environment and our nation's energy security alike."

Covering 140 acres of land at the western edge of the Nellis base, the photovoltaic system comprises 72,000 solar panels using the SunPower Tracker technology. The energy generated will support over 12,000 military and civilians at Nellis who are responsible for Air Force advanced combat training, tactics development and operational testing.

"We are faced with an incredible opportunity to promote U.S. energy security by developing our own abundant domestic resources," said United States Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid of Nevada. "Nevada and the United States have the technology and natural resources to serve our growing power demand with clean, renewable energy. I congratulate the Air Force for its continued leadership on clean power."

"Nellis, the 'Home of the Fighter Pilot,' is now home to the largest solar electric power plant in all of North America," said Colonel Michael Bartley, Nellis Air Force Base commander. "Our base and indeed our entire nation will benefit from the predictable, secure supply of clean energy that this landmark power plant is now generating. The project also provides a future test bed for the Department of Defense to assess the benefits of similar arrangements on installations across the United States."

"The Nellis project is a powerful demonstration of the U.S. Air Force's ability to execute on its aggressive goals for clean energy. From early concept through today's dedication, the Air Force collaborated closely with the strong coalition of partners instrumental in making this grand vision for solar a reality, and we look forward to maintaining that solid relationship over the long life of this clean energy system," said Matt Cheney, CEO of MMA Renewable Ventures. "The Nellis project further demonstrates how public-private partnership coupled with an innovative approach to third-party finance can make solar an affordable solution at even the largest scale."

"We congratulate the Air Force for having the vision to make solar power a mainstream energy source, and for hosting the largest solar photovoltaic system in the nation," said Tom Werner, CEO of SunPower. "Solar power is the fastest growing energy resource to help meet our escalating power demand, generating reliable, affordable power without creating emissions or waste. Nellis' decision to maximize the size and efficiency of its solar system underscores its commitment to secure energy and environmental preservation. We are proud that SunPower was selected by the Air Force to design, supply, and build this hallmark project."

"Working with partners, such as Nellis Air Force Base, to develop and generate solar energy projects is part of our strategy of providing clean, safe, reliable electricity to our customers at reasonable and predictable prices," said Michael Yackira, chief executive officer of Sierra Pacific Resources, parent company of Nevada Power. "Now that the Nellis solar energy system is on-line, the state of Nevada will be number one in the United States in solar generation per capita. We plan to expand our investments in renewable energy in order to increase the leadership position our company already has in renewable energy nationwide."

About Nellis Air Force Base

Nellis Air Force Base is called the "Home of the Fighter Pilot," and for good reason as Nellis is home of the U.S. Air Force Warfare Center. With five wings and more than 150 aircraft, the Warfare Center is responsible for advanced combat training, tactics development and operational testing. The Center also conducts worldwide combat operations with the Predator unmanned aerial vehicle. More information about Nellis is on the Web at http://www.nellis.af.mil.

About MMA Renewable Ventures

A subsidiary of Municipal Mortgage & Equity, LLC "MuniMae," (NYSE: MMA), MMA Renewable Ventures finances, owns and operates renewable energy and energy efficiency assets in the United States. The Company provides leases, Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and other customized financial solutions to help its customers manage energy costs. MMA Renewable Ventures is dedicated to delivering competitively priced, clean energy and energy savings to customers, strong partnership options for project developers, and exceptional opportunities for institutional investment in the clean energy sector. For more information about MMA Renewable Ventures, visit http://www.mmarenewableventures.com.

About SunPower

SunPower Corporation (Nasdaq: SPWR) designs, manufactures and delivers high-performance solar electric systems worldwide for residential, commercial and utility-scale power plant customers. SunPower high-efficiency solar cells and solar panels generate up to 50 percent more power than conventional solar technologies and have a uniquely attractive, all-black appearance. With headquarters in San Jose, Calif., SunPower has offices in North America, Europe and Asia. For more information, visit http://www.sunpowercorp.com. SunPower is a majority-owned subsidiary of Cypress Semiconductor Corp.
(NYSE: CY).

About Nevada Power Company

Nevada Power Company is a regulated public utility engaged in the distribution, transmission, generation, purchase and sale of electric energy in the southern Nevada communities of Las Vegas, North Las Vegas, Henderson, Searchlight, Laughlin and their adjoining areas. The Company also provides electricity to Nellis Air Force Base, the Department of Energy at Mercury and Jackass Flats at the Nevada Test Site. Nevada Power Company provides electricity to approximately 815,000 residential and business customers in a 4,500 square mile service area.

Headquartered in Nevada, Sierra Pacific Resources (NYSE: SRP) is a holding company whose principal subsidiaries are Nevada Power Company, the electric utility for most of southern Nevada, and Sierra Pacific Power Company, the electric utility for most of northern Nevada and the Lake Tahoe area of California. Sierra Pacific Power Company also distributes natural gas in the Reno-Sparks area of northern Nevada.

Forward-Looking Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements are statements that do not represent historical facts. We use words such as "will" and similar expressions to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to, our plans and expectations regarding reducing CO2 emissions by 24,000 tons annually, generating more than 30 million kilowatt-hours of clean electricity annually, and supplying approximately 25% of the total power used by nearly 12,000 people who live and work at the base. These forward-looking statements are based on information available to us as of the date of this release and current expectations, forecasts and assumptions and involve a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated by these forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include a variety of factors, some of which are beyond our control. In particular, risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ include variations in carbon dioxide emissions reductions, actual electricity generation, actual energy consumption rate, and other risks described in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2007, and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing our views as of any subsequent date, and we are under no obligation to, and expressly disclaim any responsibility to, update or alter our forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

China's Goldwind Sci & Tech IPO hoping for success like Suzlon, Vestas

Goldwind IPO as China seeks 120,000 megawatts of windpower

Goldwind Plans IPO as China Combats Climate Change (Update2)

By Ying Lou

Dec. 13 (Bloomberg) -- Goldwind Science & Technology Co., China's largest maker of wind turbines, plans to raise 1.8 billion yuan ($244 million) in an initial share sale to boost output as the country seeks to reduce its reliance on coal.

Goldwind will sell 50 million shares at 36 yuan apiece, the Xinjiang-based company said in a statement to the Shenzhen Stock Exchange. can buy the stock today and tomorrow, and it will start trading ``soon'' after the sale, Goldwind said.

Chinese officials at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Indonesia are showcasing their government's efforts to curb emissions of gases that cause global warming. The nation's climate-change program sets a target to slash 950 million tons off greenhouse emissions by 2010 by using nuclear energy, biomass fuels, hydropower, gas and wind power.

``China is already the world's factory,'' Yang Ailun, climate change program manager at Greenpeace China, said in an interview in Bali, Indonesia on Dec. 11. ``It could be and should be the manufacturing hub of clean technology for the world as well.''

The nation wants to reduce a reliance on coal for almost 80 percent of the electricity used in the world's fastest-growing economy. China passed the U.S. last year to become the world's largest source of carbon dioxide gas, from burning fossil fuels and producing cement, according to the Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency.

`First Mover Advantage'

The share sale will help fund Goldwind's plan to spend about 1.9 billion yuan to expand capacity and on research and development, according to a Dec. 6 share sale document.

``As China's wind power sector takes off, we think Goldwind is well-positioned to become a major beneficiary, thanks to its strong brand and first-mover advantage,'' KGI Securities analyst Steven Liao wrote in a Dec. 12 report. ``We think Goldwind is an attractive investment target,'' Taipei-based Liao said. Goldwind has a 33 percent share of China's wind-power equipment market, according to KGI.

China became the world's sixth-largest wind power generator last year, with 2,604 megawatts of installed capacity, according to KGI. Capacity is forecast increase by 54 percent in the five years ending 2010, the fastest pace in the world.

A megawatt of wind power generating capacity produces about as much electricity as 225 to 300 U.S. households use in a year, according to the American Wind Energy Association.

Three Gorges

China may have installed wind power generation capacity of 120 gigawatts by 2020, given state backing for such projects, Greenpeace's Yang said.

``The power generated from the wind generation units will be the equivalent of five Three Gorges projects,'' Yang said. The Three Gorges Dam, on China's Yangtze River, is the world's largest hydropower venture, with planned capacity of 18,200 megawatts.

The project, in the central province of Hubei, can generate 84.7 million megawatt-hours of power annually, equal to 10 nuclear reactors, and is due for completion in 2009.

Liao estimates Goldwind's 2007 sales at 3.2 billion yuan and 7.2 billion yuan in 2008.

Vestas Wind Systems A/S, based in Randers, Denmark, is the world's largest maker of wind-powered turbines and forecasts sales of 3.85 billion euros ($5.67 billion) this year.

Suzlon's Sales

India's Suzlon Energy Ltd., which aims to be the world's third-largest wind power company by 2010, may have sales of $3.31 billion in the 12 months ending March 2008, according to the average estimate of 14 analysts surveyed by Bloomberg.

China wants renewable energy make up 10 percent of its total energy consumption by 2010 and 15 percent by 2020 from about 8 percent now. China will spend 1.5 trillion yuan by 2020 to develop renewable energy sources including solar, wind and biomass.

China's investment on renewable energy will reach $20 billion this year, Xie Zhenhua, vice chairman of the National Development and Reform Commission, said yesterday at the UN conference in Bali.

Environment ministers from more than 180 countries are meeting in Bali to discuss an agreement to succeed the emissions-limiting Kyoto Protocol that expires in 2012.


full article at:

Goldwind IPO article on Bloomberg.com; windpower stock news

California's SunPower (NASDAQ: SPWR) buying Italy's Solar Solutions

SunPower to buy Italian solar company
article from East Bay Business Times

SunPower Corp. said Thursday it agreed to acquire Solar Solutions for an undisclosed amount.

San Jose-based SunPower (NASDAQ: SPWR) is a maker of high-efficiency solar cells, solar panels and solar systems.

Faenza, Italy-based Solar Solutions is a solar systems integration and product distribution company that is a 14-person division of Combigas s.r.l., a petroleum products trading firm.

The acquisition is expected close in the first quarter of 2008.

SunPower bought Berkeley-based PowerLight Corp., a maker of large-scale residential and commercial solar power systems, in January for $330 million. The Berkeley company now operates as a subsidiary of SunPower: SunPower Corp., Systems.

srticle from:

SunPower (SPWR) news: takeover of Italian solar energy company Solar Solutions

Invest-Yourself loves Geothermal stock investing

Geothermal Stocks

from Invest-Yourself.blogspot.com

By now you've seen the Chevron commercial touting their research and investment in alternative energy, including geothermal power. And even though a major oil company is just now expressing its interest, the black sheep of the renewables world is one Green Chip accepted long ago.

Geothermal , unlike wind, solar, and biofuels, rarely gets a piece of the limelight. And that's something I've not been able to figure out.

After all, it's an emission-free power source that's not affected by the shifting availability of sunshine and wind. That means geothermal is capable of being a base load power source, like coal- and natural gas-fired plants.

And as such, it's become price competitive with traditional sources of power in many areas, including the Southwestern US.

It's for all those reasons that we've been extremely bullish on geothermal stocks from the outset, boasting three geothermal plays in the current Green Chip portfolio.

Geothermal Stocks and Steam-Powered Profits

With oil having touched $92.22, renewable energy sources are looking increasingly promising. But even when oil was relatively cheap these geothermal stocks were still making their rise.

Now, with oil on the verge of $100, these plays are only going to go higher. Let's have a look.

Green Chip got in on Ormat Technologies (NYSE: ORA) all the way back in January 2005, shortly after the IPO. below...

We got in at $16.28 a share, and our readers are now sitting on gains of over 200%.

And, of course, you all know about US Geothermal (OTCBB: UGTH), one of the true darlings of the Green Chip portfolio. We alerted our readers to get into this stock back in July 2006, when the price stood at a mere $.80.

full article continued at:

Invest Yourself Blog - Geothermal Stocks Report

Check also:


Green Energy Info, Middle East Peace News

New technology makes natural gas clean and green

Using hydrogen to clean up fossil fuels

December 10, 2007
Tyler Hamilton, TheStar.com

Hydrogen might be an emission-free fuel when burned or put through a fuel cell, but given that fuel-cell cars for the mass market are at least a decade away – if they ever come – what if hydrogen could be used today to clean up a fossil fuel we already depend on, such as natural gas?

We use natural gas as fuel for corporate and municipal vehicle fleets, to provide power generation, and to heat our homes and buildings. The infrastructure is well developed. If we can use what we have and at the same time reduce the greenhouse gas and smog-causing emissions that result from it, then some argue it makes sense to pursue it as one slice of a larger climate-mitigation strategy.

A Fredericton-based company called Atlantic Hydrogen Inc. is making impressive inroads in this regard, having developed a new technology that can remove carbon from natural gas and replace it with hydrogen.

"Effectively what we're doing is greening the gas," says David Wagner, president and chief operating officer of Atlantic Hydrogen, which is attempting to commercialize technology developed at McGill University by chemist David Fletcher and later transferred to the University of New Brunswick.

"We are aware that in Ontario a company called Bullfrog Power is out there selling green power, so why can't we sell green gas? It's the same concept, different fuel. That's what has a number of gas companies we've talked to quite excited about this."

The company's technology is called CarbonSaver – basically a low-temperature plasma reactor that uses low amounts of energy and, according to Wagner, doesn't emit greenhouse gases. When natural gas flows through the CarbonSaver device it disassociates hydrogen and carbon from a portion of the gas. The carbon is removed in solid form as a kind of black dust. The hydrogen is injected back into the natural gas stream, representing between 15 and 20 per cent of its volume.

Wagner calls the resulting product "hydrogen-enriched natural gas" – that is, green gas. It can be used as a fuel in any internal combustion engine that would normally use natural gas, but it burns much cleaner. This also applies to natural gas appliances, such as stoves and furnaces, and gas turbines.

"By putting just 15 to 20 per cent hydrogen in with the natural gas, without making changes to an engine except tuning it for a lean burn, you could reduce harmful emissions like nitrogen oxides by anywhere from 50 to 60 per cent," explains Wagner. "So that really caught our eye."

He said natural gas with a 20 per cent blend of hydrogen also results in a 7 per cent reduction in carbon dioxide, or CO{-2}.

Atlantic Hydrogen is currently studying potential uses for this solid carbon, which could be used in making inks, dyes, plastics and tires, not to mention super-lightweight carbon composite parts for vehicles and airplanes.

It could also be permanently stored in soil – used alongside fertilizer to regenerate depleted farmland. This approach, often referred to as biochar sequestration, could fetch revenues in the form of saleable carbon credits.

Enbridge Gas Distribution is working with Atlantic Hydrogen on a three-year project partly funded by Sustainable Development Technology Canada, which pitched in $2 million. The company, which got early financial support from East Coast cable pioneer Bill Stanley, has also raised over $5 million in private equity financing and is in the process of building its first demonstration units.

Full article continued at:

Atlantic Hydrogen technology to clean natural gas

Check also:

Solar Intelligence Blog - Clean Energy and World Peace

Global Alternative Energy Stock components include 8 up 10%+ on week

AEI's Global Alternative Energy Stock Universe
Performance in %: 7th to 10th December 2007

By Dan Lewis of www.altenergyinvestor.org
December 11, 2007 11:16 AM


THE GAINERS

Ldk Solar CO Adr NYSE:LDK Solar 28.55
Dynetek Industries Com Npv TSE:DNK EnergyStorage 14.94
Canadian Solar Inc. - Common Shares (MM) NASDAQ:CSIQ Solar 14.59
Hoku Scientific (MM) NASDAQ:HOKU FuelCells 12.77
Ascent Solar Technologies (MM) NASDAQ:ASTI Solar 12.52
Energiekontor O.N. XE:EKT Wind 10.89
Solartron -Nvdr- BA 1 XE:TUU Solar 10.71
Distributed Energy Systems (MM) NASDAQ:DESC FuelCells 10.00
Solco Ltd Fpo ASX:SOO Solar 9.52
Electro Energy Inc. (MM) NASDAQ:EEEI EnergyStorage 9.47
Solarfun Power Holdings CO., Ltd. (MM) NASDAQ:SOLF Solar 8.93
Nova Biosource Fuels AMEX:NBF Biodiesel 7.86
First Solar (MM) NASDAQ:FSLR Solar 7.63
Finavera Renewables Inc. (Tier2) TSX:FVR DiversifiedAltE 7.41
Carnegie Fpo ASX:CNM Wave 7.32
Phoenix Solar AG O.N. XE:PS4 Solar 6.76
Mgp Ingredients (MM) NASDAQ:MGPI Bioethanol 5.88
Q-Cells Ag XE:QCE Solar 5.42
Yingli Grn Engy Adr NYSE:YGE Solar 5.30
Trina Solar Ltd Adr NYSE:TSL Solar 5.28
Biofuel Energy (MM) NASDAQ:BIOF Bioethanol 5.02
Sunline O.N. XE:SU3 Solar 4.96
Western Wind Energy Corp (Tier2) TSX:WND Wind 4.86
Fuelcell Energy (MM) NASDAQ:FCEL FuelCells 4.72
Plug Power (MM) NASDAQ:PLUG FuelCells 4.69
Energy Conversion Devices (MM) NASDAQ:ENER Solar 4.52
JA Solar Holdings, CO., Ltd. - Ads (MM) NASDAQ:JASO Solar 4.34
Valmont Inds NYSE:VMI Wind 4.31
Evergreen Solar (MM) NASDAQ:ESLR Solar 4.06
Plutonic Power Cor Com Npv TSE:PCC Hydro 3.84
Spire (MM) NASDAQ:SPIR Solar 3.53
Suntech Power Hldgs NYSE:STP Solar 3.49
Solon AG F.Solartech.Ag XE:SOO1 Solar 3.46
O2Diesel Corp. AMEX:OTD Biodiesel 3.23

Full list at:

AltEnergyInvestor.org AEI Stock Performance Report


Alternative Energy and World Peace Blog


Original, creative writing by Yuya Joe - Rasta Prayers online

EWEA DEcember 5th Press Release - full text online, European wind energy

December 5th 2007
Barriers must be removed for full exploitation of offshore wind

Press Release from European Wind Energy Association
Berlin

To support the necessary growth and expansion of offshore wind in order to meet the EU's 20% renewables target, several barriers need to be overcome. Low feed-in tariffs for offshore, limited and costly grid connections and complex authorisation procedures are seen as key obstacles by the offshore industry, delegates heard at the second day of the European Offshore Wind Energy Conference in Berlin.

Five countries have operating offshore wind farms so far: Denmark, Sweden, the UK, the Netherlands and Ireland. Other countries, such as Germany and France, are developing new offshore capacity. In a session today on national and EU policy, speakers from Germany, the UK, Spain, the European Commission and industry explained how certain barriers are slowing down the development of offshore and presented recent and necessary changes to policy framework.

In Germany, there are no current operational offshore wind farms. However, 22 projects have been approved in the Baltic and North Seas. The first project to be up and running should be the Alpha Ventus site, near the island of Borkum. This is currently a testing site for 12 x 5 MW turbines. It should be connected to the power grid from 2008.

Speaker Hermann Albers, from the BWE (German Wind Energy Association) focused on the key steps needed to help offshore wind power take off in Germany. Two of the barriers are the current tariffs, which are too low to encourage offshore development, and the grid connection costs.

“However, the meeting of Angela Merkel’s cabinet this morning should result in a changed feed-in tariff, which would be more attractive to developers”, he continued. This would be an important step towards offshore expansion in Germany. “For the future, a key challenge is to push turbine production to ensure a sufficient supply chain”, he added.

The session then moved on to the UK, where offshore wind is growing and could be supplying 17% of the country’s electricity by 2020, according to the British Wind Energy Association (BWEA). The rapid development is partly the result of an increase in government funding through Renewable Obligation Certificates which will take effect in 2009.

Gordon Edge, from the BWEA sees the main obstacle in the country as the “over-long and complex authorisation process for offshore farms, which can take up to 14 years”.

He gave two key methods, amongst others, of speeding up the process, by shortening the consenting time and the delivery time. In this way, the currently very strong UK offshore growth can be maintained.

Spain is one of the global leaders in onshore wind. Although it does not yet have any operating offshore wind farms, a programme has been launched in order to identify suitable development zones and establish a licensing procedure. Several projects have been suggested for the area of Cape Trafalgar, off the south coast.

Félix Avia, of CENER, the Spanish National Renewable Energies Centre explained, that offshore development had not taken off until now due to two main reasons: an over-complex authorisation process – once again – and feed-in tariffs which were not specific to offshore.

However, a Royal Decree from July 2007 helped remove these obstacles, redefining the procedures and criteria for offshore authorisation. Furthermore, it gave the power to authorise projects to just one office, and set the expected time period for installation to three years.

Mr Avia finished by saying, “Now that the new legal framework has tackled the key barriers, the future seems optimistic for offshore wind in Spain.”

Wolfgang Kerner, from the European Commission’s DG TREN, explained how the Priority Interconnection Plan (PIP) of the January 2007 energy package seeks to create a European electricity market and grid in order to facilitate cross-border exchanges. Thirty-two electricity lines have been selected around Europe and should be upgraded to help enable this. EWEA has been insisting on the need to upgrade interconnectors in order to promote cross-border exchange of power and to ensure security of electricity supply for a significant amount of time.

In addition, the European Commission has appointed four energy coordinators, including Georg Wilhelm Adamowitsch, whose specific role will be to facilitate future offshore projects.

Bo Mørup, from Vestas Wind Systems A/S, Denmark, gave the investors’ point of view, focusing on the question, “why do some countries take off while others do not?” He discussed the criteria that made some countries attractive to investors, namely the tariff level and the wind resource available.

More information on different national approaches can be found in EWEA’s policy recommendations document, launched yesterday, entitled “Delivering offshore wind energy in Europe”.

Visit www.ewea.org to learn more.

SunPower (NASDAQ: SPWR) inks 5-year deal with Jiawei SolarChina

SunPower (SPWR) signs 5-year silicon ingot and wafer pact with Jiawei SolarChina

BOSTON, Dec. 7, 2007 (Thomson Financial delivered by Newstex) -- SunPower Corp. (NASDAQ:SPWR) Friday said it signed a five-year agreement with Jiawei SolarChina Co. Ltd. to secure a supply of monocrystalline silicon ingots and silicon wafers.

SunPower said, beginning in 2008, it will purchase sufficient silicon in ingot and wafer forms to satisfy production requirements and will provide Jiawei with polysilicon during the life of the agreement.

Jiawei is affiliated with SunEnergy, SunPower's solar panel assembly partner.

full article at:

http://money.cnn.com/news/newsfeeds/articles/newstex/AFX-0013-21512811.htm

Lazard likes the big FSLR and the lil CPST

Lazard More Bullish on First Solar & Capstone Turbine (FSLR, CPST)

Analyst Sanjay Shrestha of Lazard Capital Markets is sticking with his Buy ratings this morning on shares of First Solar (NASDAQ:FSLR) and Capstone Turbine (NASDAQ:CPST).

On First Solar (NASDAQ:FSLR):

* We maintain our BUY rating on First Solar shares following the company's analyst day and tour of the company's Perrysburg, Ohio, manufacturing facility.... elaborated on its overall strategy to garner leading and defendable market share in the mainstream electric power generating market, without subsidy, while maintaining a superior return on capital through people, processes, technological leadership, scale, strong financial discipline, and risk control..... reiterated its cost-reduction goal of achieving module ASP of $1-$1.25/watt by 2010-2012.
* Shrestha adds, "We believe this strategy will allow First Solar to successfully migrate from subsidized markets, to renewable energy markets, to mainstream electric power markets over the next several years.... We are raising our price target to $250 from $225. Our new target equates to a 40x multiple on our 2010E EPS of $7.25 (up from $6.50), discounted back 15% for one year.

On Capstone Turbine (NASDAQ: CPST):

* Interestingly enough, an approval for microturbine technology to become a standard in New York is the basis for todays call. Mayor Michael Bloomberg announced a new rule setting the country's first standard for use and installation of microturbine systems in residential and commercial buildings. The rule creates a standard protocol for microturbine installation in NYC...
* Shrestha notes, "Given Capstone's UL certification and strong presence in Northeast market, we would look for increasing order traction; however, we note that sales cycles for distributed generation solutions remain lumpy/lengthy.... We maintain our $2.50 price target, which reflects a 25x multiple on our 2012 EPS estimate of $0.20 discounted back at 25% for three years. We maintain our $2.50 price target, which reflects a 25x multiple on our 2012 EPS estimate of $0.20 discounted back at 25% for three years."

We recently noted in our own "10 Stocks Under $10 Newsletter" how after we reviewed Capstone Turbine (NASDAQ:CPST) that we felt his call for a double in the shares could be greatly understated if you track alternative energy and historical stock prices compared to modern and past valuations.

* Capstone Turbine (NASDAQ: CPST) shares are up 6% at $1.22 today; 52-week trading range is $0.75 to $1.48 (stock was above $5.00 in 2005 and traded well over $50.00 back in 2000); market cap $177.5 million.
* First Solar (NASDAQ: FSLR) shares are up over 4% more today at $223.85; 52-week trading range is $26.40 to $252.39; market cap now $17.4 Billion.

Jon C. Ogg
December 5, 2007
http://www.247wallst.com/2007/12/lazard-more-bul.html

Q-Cells (CQEG) investing big in thin-film, goal is 1 gigawatt production

CQEG investing a billion euros in thin-film, aiming for 1 gigawatt annual production

UPDATED INTERVIEW, Q-Cells plans plant abroad to cut costs
Thu Dec 6, 2007 9:25am EST

(Adds more detail from interview)

By Eva Kuehnen

THALHEIM, Germany, Dec 6 (Reuters) - Q-Cells (QCEG.DE: Quote, Profile, Research) plans to expand production outside Germany to cut costs and benefit from the weak dollar as it seeks to triple output by 2010, the company's chief executive told Reuters in an interview.

The world's second-largest solar-cell producer after Japan's Sharp Solar (6753.T: Quote, Profile, Research) also wants to invest more than 1 billion euros ($1.46 billion) by 2010 in thin-film technology to reduce its dependency on silicon, a scarce material in the solar industry whose cost has soared, Anton Milner said.

Q-Cells aims to reach production output in its core business of 1 gigawatt peak (GWp) by 2010 from 370 Megawatt peak (MWp) this year and another 400 to 600 MWp in its thin-film technology business in the same period from 25-50 MWp expected for 2008.

"We are building next year -- and this is going to be one of our main investment thrusts -- a huge manufacturing complex potentially at a new location," Milner said.

"Some correlation to the U.S. dollar" was key given the U.S. currency's weakness against the euro, Milner said, adding that Q-Cells had scanned 26 sites and was in the closing stages.

But he ruled out China, saying: "The intellectual property rights and the know-how protection is difficult. We've got some pretty sexy stuff coming."

Milner said the efficiencies achieved in Q-Cells' thin-film activities so far justified "very major investments".

It plans to invest more than 1 billion euros in the business by 2010 to make the targets, having spent about half of last year's total investments of 400 million euros in the segment.

Q-Cells shares fell 2 percent to 90.37 euros by 1417 GMT, double the decline in the German Tecdax index .

Thin-film technology is an attractive alternative to traditional crystalline silicon cells, which require 200 times more silicon, considering that silicon accounts for between 40 and 50 percent of a module's costs.

However, so far thin-film cells are less efficient than crystalline-based cells, which means more space is needed to achieve the same output.

Analysts have said the targets for Q-Cells' new technologies were too ambitious as production was still at an early stage, but Milner was bullish.

"This is the target we've set ourselves and when Q-Cells sets itself targets, it gets there," he said.

First Solar (FSLR.O: Quote, Profile, Research) of the United States was now the biggest player in the segment, and Japan's Sharp has said it would invest $200 million to boost output capacity for thin film by more than tenfold by October 2008.

Prices for silicon have risen sharply over the past years as increasing demand from the solar and the semiconductor industry led to a supply bottleneck. But rising capacity should ease the shortage at the end of 2009 or in 2010, Milner said.

EVERQ LISTING

Q-Cells affiliate EverQ offers another technology that reduces production costs by using less silicon as it pulls solar wafers from melted silicon, avoiding the sawing process.

EverQ -- a joint venture with U.S. firm Evergreen Solar (ESLR.O: Quote, Profile, Research) and Norway's Renewable Energy Corporation (REC.OL: Quote, Profile, Research)

(REC) -- produces solar wafers, cells and modules.

It aims to raise production capacity to 600 MWp by 2012 from 100 MWp today, Q-Cells said, which would, among other things, be funded via an initial public offering, probably in the second half of next year or in 2009.

Most shares on offer would probably come from a capital increase, it said. The free float is seen at 20 to 30 percent.

"None of the three companies really need to use an IPO for financing purposes," Milner said. "The key priority will be to get key investment funds into EverQ."

(Editing by Quentin Bryar)

($1=.6870 Euro) Keywords: QCELLS EXPANSION/

(C) Reuters 2007. All rights reserved. Republication or redistribution ofReuters content, including by caching, framing or similar means, is expresslyprohibited without the prior written consent of Reuters. Reuters and the Reuterssphere logo are registered trademarks and trademarks of the Reuters group ofcompanies around the world.nL06901548

© Reuters 2007. All rights reserved. Republication or redistribution of Reuters content, including by caching, framing or similar means, is expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of Reuters. Reuters and the Reuters sphere logo are registered trademarks and trademarks of the Reuters group of companies around the world.

Reuters journalists are subject to the Reuters Editorial Handbook which requires fair presentation and disclosure of relevant interests.

full article at:

http://www.reuters.com/article/technology-media-telco-SP/idUSL0690154820071206

Transcript of Brad Pitt interview on Larry King Live; Make It Right

CNN LARRY KING LIVE

from CNN.com

Interview with Brad Pitt in New Orleans

Aired December 5, 2007 - 21:00 ET

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.


LARRY KING, HOST: Tonight, Brad Pitt -- the man.
BRAD PITT, ACTOR: We want to build homes.

KING: His mission...

PITT: We're going to get this place rebuilt.

KING: Our conversation.

PITT: Hey, you're good at this. You've done this before.

(LAUGHTER)

KING: Brad Pitt for the hour -- it's exclusive and it's next on LARRY KING LIVE.

It's a great pleasure to welcome to LARRY KING LIVE, Brad Pitt.

Finally, after all these years, we have obtained the services of Mr. Pitt -- on a very important occasion, by the way. This is the debut of an extraordinary charity to help a much-needed project.

Thank you so much for doing this.

PITT: Yes. Thanks for having me and having all of us here.

KING: How did you get this -- first of all, why did you come to New Orleans in the first place?

PITT: I just always had a love for this place. I mean it's really like no other city we have. It's got its own unique vitality and it's the home of Mardi Gras and -- I mean, where else can you do something as silly as this and people really enjoy it?

KING: And we're going to talk about that.

PITT: It's great for (INAUDIBLE).

KING: But I mean did you come here before Katrina?

PITT: Yes. I've been here since -- coming here since '94. I came here then for a film. But I lived here for about three months and really fell in love with the place. And it's been a nice home for myself and my family.

KING: The people are like no people in America. There's something about the people of New Orleans. I mean...

PITT: They -- I mean, you come here, you'll meet seventh generational families here, people that -- they are not leaving. They love this place and it's very important to them.

KING: So where do you -- you live here?

PITT: Um-hmm.

KING: And...

PITT: We live in a few -- I mean, we're a pretty nomadic family, as you can imagine.

KING: How do you work that?

PITT: But, yes, we have a base here.

KING: How do you work being nomadic in this kind of society?

PITT: We pack up the kids. We've got our system and it's truly a mobile unit. And we plop down here and we can plug into a school here and (INAUDIBLE)...

KING: Then you go to Los Angeles (INAUDIBLE)?

PITT: Los Angeles -- we're there right now for a month here while Angie is working. And then we'll be back through here and...

KING: Does the film dictate where you live?

PITT: A little bit.

KING: So where -- what are you going to do...

PITT: The film or whatever we're focusing on, yes.

KING: All right, so you came here out of a love for New Orleans not...

PITT: Right.

KING: So now Katrina happens.

PITT: Right.

KING: Then what?

How soon after that did you come?

PITT: A few months after. I was out filming "Jesse James" in Calgary when the storm hit. And it was talking to people at the first Clinton Global Initiative -- we were talking about the lack of -- or the help that was needed with the rebuilding effort. And I knew -- I know a little bit about building. And I certainly know people who know a lot about building. And could we start putting these people together, and, you know, help the good folks here get -- you know, rebuild their communities.

KING: So you wanted to get involved from the start?

PITT: Yes.

KING: OK. So, first of all, isn't it a blight on somebody -- city, state, federal -- that this Ninth Ward ain't any better?

PITT: Well, no question. I mean but it -- you know, the Ninth Ward has got a lot of attention. And we're starting here because it seems to have the least -- or the most difficulty of coming back. But this is -- this is everywhere. You -- to see the extent of the damage and the extent of the people -- the extent of the lack of movement is -- I mean, this goes on for parish after parish after parish.

We're hoping we can take -- start here as a nucleus, but we can keep expanding on this throughout New Orleans and the Gulf Coast itself.

KING: OK, Brad, what do we want to do here?

PITT: We want to build homes, OK?

So I'll back up. You know, we started on this project probably a year ago. And myself, Bill McDonough -- who's one of the premier thinkers, a green designer, intelligent building techniques and really a tremendous author of the new paradigm.

We start -- what we did is we called in 13 of the best minds in architecture that could take on sustainability, affordability, safety -- because this will flood again -- and still be true to the aesthetic nature of the culture. We call it MakeItRight.

KING: A good idea because it's wrong, right?

Someone has done something wrong.

PITT: Well, it certainly illuminated the fact that there's a portion of our society that we're overlooking, that we're not taking care of. And so that's -- that's -- that's where it started from. It started from a gentleman I had met who was in his 70s, I believe, and was telling me how he had done everything right, according to the American dream -- getting a job and saving for a house and buying the house and raising his family and sending his kids off to school from that house -- and then it all being wiped out.

And you have to imagine, if everything you own is completely wiped out and insurance is not covering it. And you put on top of that, that -- you know, this -- it wasn't just -- you can't call this an act of God. This was a man-made failures. This should not have happened. These were levee failures. This was mistakes with destroying the barriers that once protected this city.

I mean and when you look at it from that perspective, the people are set up. Now, I don't it's -- it was a dastardly, evil move on someone's part. It was a chain of events that culminated into this horrific event...

KING: Which...

PITT: But it can be fixed.

KING: And now we have MakeItRightNola.org.

PITT: Right.

KING: Now, that's all one word -- MakeItRight. Nola is New Orleans, Louisiana. MakeItRightNola.org is the Web site you go to.

PITT: That's right. OK, so we're...

KING: For anything, right?

PITT: That's right. We're trying to send people to the Web site, because what we now have here are -- we can get families into homes by the end of summer. We -- you're going to see this community start to come back. And where we need help is we need America to come together like they did directly after the storm and help the families here meet that financing gap to build properly, to build safely.

And that's what we're trying to do here. So we're -- we are asking for foundations, for community groups, church groups...

KING: Rich people...

PITT: ... Corporations -- yes, high net worth individuals -- to come in and adopt a house. We're calling this -- this pink, which I'll explain back here, the adopt-a-house campaign -- and to adopt a house, adopt 10 houses, adopt a little piece of a house. But for every $150,000 that comes in, a family will move into one of these new homes.

And in the process, this will become on of the greenest communities in the U.S., which will be exciting.

KING: That is just a phenomenal idea.

PITT: Yes, it's really (INAUDIBLE).

KING: We're going to take a break and come right back.

PITT: OK.

KING: Brad Pitt is our guest.

Now the Web site is MakeItRightNola -- that's News Orleans -- MakeItRightNola.org. That's all one word. You can go to that Web site to contribute, to learn more, to get more information. You couldn't help a worthier cause.

We'll be right back with Brad Pitt in New Orleans.

Don't go away.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

GEORGE BUSH, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: We're dealing with one of the worst natural disasters in our nation's history.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Don't tell me 40,000 people have come in here. They're not here.

UNIDENTIFIED PEOPLE: We want help!

PITT: All of this was unnecessary. It didn't need to happen. And we feel that there is a responsibility to right that wrong.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

KING: Welcome back to LARRY KING LIVE.

We're in New Orleans. We're in Ninth Ward. In fact, we may be sitting -- this was obviously something.

PITT: This would have at one time been someone's house.

KING: It could have been a house...

PITT: Yes, it's hard to imagine...

KING: ...or a driveway, too.

PITT: ...that within -- on that night, within under 20 minutes this place had a -- the break was right over there and there would have been a surge of water that eventually climbed to 20 feet.

KING: OK, explain the pink.

PITT: OK. This is what we're calling the adopt-a-house campaign. It's part art installation, part act of social disobedience.

(LAUGHTER)

PITT: but it's really meant to work as a fundraising component. And we were looking for something that was -- that was loud and would get a lot of attention and that was also hopeful.

So what you see here is -- as you see these blocks scattered across this section of the Lower Ninth to represent the houses that were destroyed, the homes that were destroyed. And what we're hoping to do is, as a house gets adopted -- and this is going to be up for five, six weeks, five-and-a-half weeks -- as a home gets adopted, we will right that house and we will put it back on its foundation.

So, hopefully, this will be an art installation that will be constantly evolving. And by the end of this -- by the end of this five-and-a-half weeks, we hope to have a symbolically -- a symbolic neighborhood put back together. And that's the goal.

And these things -- these things are -- it's a beautiful driving tour at night. It also works as kind of a gift to the city. It's all lit up from within at night. It's quite a beautiful experience.

KING: Whose idea was that?

PITT: Well...

KING: It's novel.

PITT: Well, you know, I -- it's my fault. It's my fault.

KING: It's your idea.

PITT: But, you know, I took from Christo some of the works that...

(CROSSTALK)

PITT: ... Had done at that time.

KING: Why not green?

PITT: We thought about it. But...

KING: Bright green.

PITT: It just felt like pink screamed the loudest.

(LAUGHTER)

KING: It does that. And it's a great idea because it, obviously, it serves on many levels...

PITT: Yes, I...

KING: ...even just P.R.

PITT: I think there's a beautiful story to it. And at night, as I say, the story continues. It glows from within which, to me, represents the heart of the house, the family. And you will also see -- what we have to remember here, that in this very spot, as far as the location, that there were over -- or there was nearly 1,000 deaths.

So there are almost 1,000 -- or roughly 1,000 lights that are scattered across the ground. It's a beautiful tribute, I think.

KING: You kicked this off with $5 million of your own, right?

PITT: Yes, I did. Yes, I did, because -- because I know we can do this. I believe it should be done. There's -- I will -- I'll debate anyone for on the reasons why we should be rebuilding here. There are multiple reasons, but no better reason than when you meet the families -- the families who are trying to get back, families who have been dispersed, families without a really clear-cut direction on how to do it or not do it or to relocate.

But, also, because I believe in the potential here to advance the practice of what I call intelligent building.

KING: So if somebody -- some wealthy person, of our viewers, were to give a check for $150,000...

PITT: That would be...

KING: That would be building a house.

PITT: They...

KING: that would be a house.

PITT: They are putting a family in a house. They are returning a family to their neighborhood. Done. It's done.

KING: All right.

PITT: And I also want to say that this is also set up where people can contribute at all levels. It's set up, if you go to the Web site...

KING: You can give $5.

PITT: You can buy -- you can buy the tip of the corner of the house. You can adopt that section. Or you can adopt a solar panel and give it to someone for the holidays as a...

KING: And you said earlier...

PITT: ...and give it to them in their name or ...

KING: ...homes will be here this summer?

PITT: ... A low-flush toilet. That's right.

(LAUGHTER)

KING: Homes will be here this summer?

PITT: By the end of the summer, you will see homes finished and you will see families moving in.

article continued at:

http://transcripts.cnn.com/TRANSCRIPTS/0712/05/lkl.01.html