TMCnet GreenTech Week in Review

In news this week, the U.S. Army geared up for green energy projects, Intel (News - Alert) used a tiny solar chip to power a CPU, UK scientists proposed that artificial volcanoes could save the planet, Tickengo made it easier for employees to carpool, Volkswagen unveiled a one-seater in Europe, and much more.

On September 15, the U.S. Army’s Energy Initiatives Office (EIO) Task Force officially opened for business as the hub for the development of large-scale renewable energy projects on military bases worldwide – providing needed expertise and funding.  The EIO Task Force is expected to enable the Army to meet its renewable energy goals; as well as to address increasing security challenges, escalating fuel prices, and stricter federal mandates.

At the Intel Developer Forum (IDF 2011) this week, Justin Rattner, chief technology officer of the Santa Clara-based chip maker divulged the first details about the company’s research into the Near Threshold Voltage Processor (NVTP) – which is able to operate at a level close to the actual voltage at which transistors begin conducting current. In fact, the processor is so efficient that, in a company demonstration, it ran on a postage stamp-size solar cell. The NVTP has the potential to support “always-on” devices, longer battery lives, and powerful many-core processors for use in everything from smartphones; to tablets, notebooks, desktops, and workstation PCs.

Scientists have long known that strong volcanic eruptions lower global temperatures, sometimes for years. Now, UK researchers are wondering if an “artificial volcano” can duplicate those results. They intend to pump water up a hose suspended one kilometer (3,280 feet) off the ground underneath a dirigible. It sounds a bit weird, but the scientists think it could be the first giant step in a geoengineering project that will take decades – but may be worth the wait. It could ultimately save the planet.

An innovative new corporate product developed to help workers set up carpool systems within their own companies has been released by Tickengo. The social rideshare network connects commuters who have empty space in their cars with passengers traveling to similar destinations.

At the Frankfurt Motor Show, Volkswagen took the wraps off its new electric vehicle – the NILS concept, a one-seat car that weights less than 1,000 pounds. According to the automaker, the EV is perfect for Germany, where 90 percent of commuters drive to work alone. The vehicle’s pulling power comes from a 5.3 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The range is about 40 miles and charging takes just two hours.

Another automaker, Opel, has created a new concept EV, unofficially dubbed the “One Euro Car.” It’s a speedy (up to 75 mph) two-seater that can travel about 62 miles for just $1.41. Opel claims the car will be affordable, although the actual MSRP has not yet been announced.

Queen Elizabeth – Britain’s second-longest reigning royal – is ensuring that her power supply is sustainable, too. At Windsor Castle, her favorite residence, the Queen has announced she is converting to hydroelectric power. Two 40-ton Archimedes screws were installed earlier this week within sight of the castle, at Romney Weir on the River Thames, and are expected to be switched on in November.

Finally, U.S. diesel auto sales are up 37 percent over 2010, compared to the overall auto market’s 10.4 percent increase. “The steady increase in clean diesel auto sales [reflects the] public’s shift toward clean and more fuel efficient vehicles,” said Allen Schaeffer, Diesel Technology Forum. ”With the increased fuel prices over the past year and the government’s new fuel efficiency standards, American drivers are seeing that clean diesel cars are the best option for reliable green transportation.”