Summer 1995 Science and Technology at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory InIn Review Review Summer 1995 Vol. XVII, No. 2 The National Renewable Features Energy Laboratory NREL is a national resource 2 New Directions for NREL committed to leadership, excellence, Plans to streamline NREL take root in the extensive industry background and innovation in renewable energy of its new director, Charlie Gay and related technologies. 10 Solar for South Africa Our research is intended for A new assembly plant for photovoltaic modules could open up a large application in the private sector. We market for American-made solar cells foster cooperation with industry through subcontracts and cost- 11 Integrating Renewables shared studies. We collaborate with Recent studies dispel misconceptions about integrating renewable energy university and industry researchers. technologies into electric utility grids Our world-class laboratories are 12 Hands Across the Water available for experiments, analyses, NREL helps smooth the way for American companies to prosper in and proprietary studies. expanding global markets for clean, renewable energy NREL is a DOE national labora- 18 Energy Software’s Best Test tory operated by the Midwest Research Institute. Architects and engineers can have more confidence in computerized predictions of building energy use thanks to a new tool called BESTEST NREL In Review NREL’s news magazine is intended to promote the flow of Departments technology from the laboratory to 1NRELNews the private sector. NREL In Review Budget cuts loom on NREL’s horizon; SERF wins national design award; addresses a readership ranging from states speed the widespread use of photovoltaics; NREL honored by wind scientific professionals to business industry; bipartisan poll indicates strong public support for renewables people. It is distributed without charge to those involved in 7 Technology Transfer renewable energy and related fields. Advanced airfoils offer top performance for wind turbines Material may be reprinted with 8 Partnerships proper credit. Mention of product or PV partnership program targets thin films; energy crops get a boost from company name does not constitute key stakeholders; IT Corporation and Fabricare Institute clean up solvents endorsement by NREL, MRI, or any from dry cleaning agency of the U.S. government. 15 Technical News Linda R. Brown Bioremediation uses a wealth of microscopic organisms to detoxify waste Managing Editor/Science Writer streams, soil, and groundwater (303) 275-4097 19 Publications Ann Hansen Assistant Editor 20 Calendar/Technical Reports Howard Brown, Mike Coe, Gary Cook, Paula Pitchford, Patrick Summers 1994 Lester Lefkowitz

© Contributing Writers Susan Sczepanski

On the cover — In a special growth chamber, Photograph Designer and Typographer an NREL researcher checks samples of Lester Lefkowitz microalgae that will be screened for their Cover photograph  1994 ability to capture and hold metal ions. See article on p. 15.

Printed on paper containing at least 50% wastepaper, including 20% postconsumer waste. This magazine is fully recyclable at centers using the Office Pack program. NREL News

says Christine Ervin, DOE’s researchers. Experimental labora- SERF wins national Assistant Secretary for Energy tories, state-of-the-art computer design award Efficiency and Renewable Energy. facilities, a blade-testing labora- The unique, energy-efficient While the debate continues in tory, assembly and tooling work- design of NREL’s Solar Energy Washington, Energy Secretary shops, and outdoor wind turbine Research Facility (SERF) has Hazel O’Leary, Assistant Secre- test beds are available to NREL’s ranked it among 77 winners of tary Ervin, and NREL Director industry partners. For more infor- this year’s Federal Design Charlie Gay are using their busi- mation on the center, contact Achievement Award from the ness acumen to create leaner, Darrell Dodge at (303) 384-6906. National Endowment of the Arts. meaner organizations. Will their Recipients are now contending proposals stave off massive Americans support for the Presidential Design Award budget cuts? See article on p. 2. for Excellence, the nation’s high- renewable energy est design honor. The SERF uses MIT wins Sunrayce‘95 A recent national survey on daylighting, compact fluorescent After 1150 miles and nine days priorities for the federal energy lights, window shades powered of racing, the Massachusetts Insti- budget reveals strong bipartisan by photovoltaics, and other tute of Technology (MIT) won support for continued funding of advanced features to reduce Sunrayce ‘95, edging second- renewable energy and energy energy consumption by 30% to place University of Minnesota efficiency research. 40%—a savings of almost by just 18 minutes. Conducted by Republican $200,000 a year in utility bills MIT’s solar car averaged pollster Vince Breglio, the post- when compared to a comparable a record 37.2 mph (59.9 kph) election survey found that 42% of conventional building. for the race, which started in Americans believe that renewable Indianapolis, IN, on June 20 and energy technologies should be the finished at NREL’s Solar Energy highest priority for continued fed- Research Facility on June 29. eral funding of energy research. Rounding out the top five Another 22% ranked renewables were: California Polytechnic as the second highest energy re- University—Pomona, third; search priority. This opinion was George Washington University, voiced almost equally by Republi- fourth; and Stanford University, cans (60%), Democrats (66%), and fifth. Solar cars from 38 North independents (67%). American universities competed Energy efficiency and conser- in the race. vation was also cited as a high pri- Sunrayce ‘95 is a biennial colle- ority: 22% of respondents rated giate solar car race sponsored by these technologies as the top pri- Budget cuts loom on DOE and General Motors. ority for federal energy funding, with 27% ranking them as second NREL’s horizon highest. Once again, this opinion At press time, both the U.S. NREL honored by was almost equally share by House of Representatives and the wind industry Republicans, Democrats, and Senate have proposed federal independents. budgets that could slash NREL’s The American Wind Energy About 85% of those surveyed funding by as much as 50% begin- Association has bestowed its agreed that the federal govern- ning in fiscal year 1996. Budget 1995 Technical Award to NREL’s ment should continue to support cuts would be counterproductive National Wind Technology Cen- partnerships with American busi- because the affected initiatives ter. Dedicated by Energy Secre- ness to promote sales of energy will ultimately save more money tary Hazel O’Leary in October efficiency and renewable energy for U.S. taxpayers than what’s 1994, the center has already technologies through research consumed in federal spending, become a focal point for collabora- and development. The poll was tion and information exchange commissioned by the Sustainable among government and industry Energy Budget Coalition.♦

NREL In Review Summer 1995 1

New Directions for NREL Plans to streamline NREL take root in the extensive industry background of its new director, Charlie Gay

by Linda R. Brown What changes do you envision in synergies with other national labs; operations? and how we can draw more heavily on the ties we already have with Operational efficiency is essential universities. ith impending budget to maximizing the amount and cuts and intensive scru- quality of our work within the con- What about new business initiatives? Wtiny of DOE’s national straints of our available budget. labs, what’s on the horizon for We’ll use a spectrum of modern busi- These would be an effective way NREL? We asked Director Charlie ness practices to increase our work to move some of NREL’s mature Gay for his perspective on upcoming output and decrease the cost of our technologies quickly and efficiently changes that may affect both the day-to-day operations. into the marketplace. We’re explor- Laboratory and its industry partners. ing opportunities and methodologies to spin off our more mature tech- Right now there’s a lot of talk about “We’ve succeeded in nologies into new business ventures. major budget cuts for government We’ve succeeded in bringing some technologies to the brink of commer- agencies, including DOE. Can you bringing some technologies cialization, and it would be very tell how NREL will be affected? to the brink of appropriate to have these technolo- Last year, a review committee commercialization, and it gies spun off into private ventures to appointed by Energy Secretary flourish or perish in the competitive O’Leary concluded that the national would be very appropriate to marketplace. NREL is now working labs as a whole could find ways to have these technologies spun to define more aggressive technol- cut their activities by 30 to 50 percent off into private ventures to ogy transfer strategies incorporating without jeopardizing the priority these options. elements of DOE’s mission. In other flourish or perish in the words, if you roll together all 10 competitive marketplace.” What technologies might be appro- national labs, it should be possible priate for spinning off as new for those labs to deliver the same business ventures? results for about 40 percent less. This reduction focuses on how effec- For example, we’ll be following a We have a couple of candidates tively the money is being spent to corporatized approach to decision- in mind. One is a fairly substantial accomplish the objectives of each making in which responsibility and opportunity in the biofuels area— laboratory. accountability for getting things converting rice, straw, wood chips, We don’t know exactly how Con- done is delegated to the lowest possi- or other biomass into ethanol. By gressional budget cuts will fall out. ble level within the organization. In spinning off certain elements of this But we’re taking action to address almost any business today, you’ll activity as a stand-alone business concerns about the efficiency and find this kind of network, in which venture—independent from the effectiveness of our operations. self-directed employee teams are Laboratory—I believe we can draw NREL is currently reviewing possi- getting things done without a lot of significant venture capital into ble reductions that could be achieved expensive overhead and bureaucracy. the biofuels arena to finance the through improvements in opera- We’ll also be looking at the bal- private commercialization of NREL- tional efficiency. This is one of three ance between research, develop- developed technology. At the same elements in the framework for a new ment, and engineering; how we use time, this kind of activity would NREL: operational efficiency, new our existing assets; how we can return some support to the ongoing business initiatives, and income develop more connections and efforts here at NREL. An independent Warren Gretz/NREL diversity.

NREL In Review Summer 1995 3 stakeholders. We must periodically Meet Charlie Gay review the best allocation of our Dr. Charles F. Gay was named director of the National Renewable resources to maximize the return Energy Laboratory on January 20, 1995. He brings more than two decades on the nation’s investment in that of experience in the renewable energy business to his new position. partnership. Gay came to NREL from UNISUN, a California-based consulting firm The basic goal of outside research he cofounded in 1993. Under his expert leadership, UNISUN organized, contracts is to leverage the nation’s financed, and developed renewable energy projects around the world. His investment by encouraging experience in international business management, industrial operations, American industry and universities new venture formation, and venture capital was an important factor in his to participate in the development of selection as NREL’s new director. renewable technologies. From 1978 to 1990, Gay served in various positions with ARCO Solar The basic goals of NREL’s inhouse Inc. in Camarillo, CA, including vice president of research and develop- operations are to maintain a center ment as well as senior vice president of manufacturing, research, and engi- of excellence in renewable energy neering. He was appointed president of ARCO Solar in 1988. Under his and energy efficiency technologies; leadership, the cost of manufacturing crystalline silicon solar cells was to leverage NREL’s investment in reduced from $25 per watt to less than $5, and ARCO became the world’s outside contractors by providing largest photovoltaics company. Siemens Solar Group acquired ARCO expert technical support to NREL’s Solar in 1990, and Gay became president of the internationally based solar contract administrators; and to company. supply advanced analytical and Gay began his distinguished career at Spectrolab Inc., where he reference services to researchers in designed and built high performance solar cells for satellites operated by industry and at universities. NASA and the U.S. Air Force. He holds a degree in physical chemistry Because NREL is the nation’s lead- from the University of California at Riverside. ing laboratory for energy efficiency and renewable energy, it’s impera- tive that we maintain a core “center biofuels venture could attract interna- actively with our partners in of excellence” in these areas. NREL’s tional financing to pursue research American industry and with subcontracts program has been very objectives beyond what DOE fund- organizations such as the multilat- effective at fostering industry exper- ing alone could support. And we’d eral development banks and the tise and initiative in commercializing also be helping to create new busi- Global Environment Facility. these technologies. nesses with more jobs to strengthen We’re simply doing a prudent the renewable energy industry and How might our industry partners reassessment of the overall allocation the U.S. economy. of resources given the budgetary be affected by budget cuts? realities confronting us. What about the third element to the NREL has typically invested about 50 percent of its budget in out- framework for a new NREL—income side contracts, believing that this is diversity? the best way to leverage the taxpay- “I believe we can draw Historically, NREL has gotten the ers’ investment in renewable energy. significant venture capital majority of its funding from the U.S. Given the difficult budgetary taxpayers through the Department choices now facing Congress and into the biofuels arena to of Energy. If we can diversify our the Administration, we’re reviewing finance the private sources of income, it will give us this historical balance of inhouse more opportunities to forge working and outside expenditures. commercialization of relationships with the full panorama NREL-developed of stakeholders and beneficiaries of That sounds pretty ominous. Can renewable energy technologies. you elaborate? technology.” There are some great opportunities It’s certainly not meant to be beyond the traditional path for ominous. NREL is in a partnership financing our research and opera- with its university and industry tions. We want to collaborate more

4 Summer 1995 NREL In Review that can fuel the growth of the renew- able energy industry. What I’m pro- “What I’m proposing is to posing is to widen this approach to

Warren Gretz/NREL parallel what industry does—devote widen this approach to the most resources to those technolo- parallel what industry gies with superior market potential. does—devote the most Markets for renewable energy are resources to those really taking off overseas, especially technologies with superior in developing nations. What role can NREL play in this arena? market potential.“ We need to link up with the inter- national community. Most of the customers for current technology are How can NREL contribute to the outside the United States. They are the two billion people on this planet efforts of the World Bank and other who have no electricity. Our solar, organizations promoting world trade wind, and biofuels/transportation of U.S. products? programs could all have an immedi- We’ll be allocating resources to ate impact because they’re the least develop the tools that organizations expensive options for areas not pres- In recent testimony before Congress, such as the World Bank require to ently served by power lines. NREL fund renewable energy projects. We you’ve mentioned something called can work effectively with organiza- need to show that renewables are a “sunset review.” What’s this about? tions like the World Bank to facilitate more expeditious choice than, say, the worldwide use of renewable Sunset review will define criteria waiting three years for a coal-fired energy and energy efficiency. for when NREL should seek to hand plant to be installed. Renewables off the technology to industry. If a technology fails to advance at an acceptable pace, or if we determine 3000 that U.S. industry is not likely to 2750 commercialize the technology, then 2500 Grants NREL will redirect its resources to Renewable Energy more productive activities. Suitable 2250 Conservation CD-SS24-A350701 checks and balances will ensure that 2000 such decisions aren’t made prema- 1750 turely for promising technologies. 1500 The process and exact criteria are still 1250 being defined. We expect to have 1000 them in place by late summer. $1994inMillions 750 How does this differ from the existing 500 process? 250 0 The national labs have tradition- 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 ally followed an approach that’s Fiscal Year basically “invent something, patent FY 1996 it, and then find someone to license DOE Request it.” Our job at NREL is to invent new DOE’s budget request for energy efficiency and renewable energy underscores the importance and different things; to broaden the of these technologies to America’s energy future. Budget proposals by the U.S. House of number of energy options for our Representatives and Senate could lead to funding reductions of up to 50%. nation; to have a core of innovation

NREL In Review Summer 1995 5 Warren Gretz/NREL

Left: At NREL’s new Process Development Unit, researchers can help U.S. companies scale up biofuels production for large commercial markets. Below: Technologies now approach- ing commercialization include cofer- mentation of biomass sugars to ethanol using a single set of tanks. Warren Gretz/NREL

are modular and can be installed performance standards and procure- getting the job done supersedes rapidly. The disadvantage to ment specifications. bureaucratic encumbrances. The renewables is that they often require result will be to move technologies a sizable capital investment. You It sounds like NREL is entering out of the Lab more quickly to create have to put your money down on an era of significant change. new jobs and improve U.S. competi- the table now to get free electricity What vision do you have of the tiveness in growing energy markets in the future. A decade ago, bankers around the world.♦ weren’t willing to risk lending Laboratory’s future? money for renewable energy projects Our goal is to strengthen the Lab because the technologies were fairly by making it as effective as possible new. But now there’s a 15-year per- given our budget constraints, and formance history all around the to consolidate our position as the world in all kinds of climates. We nation’s center of excellence for need to show that renewables are a renewable energy and energy effi- prudent investment for groups like ciency. We want to energize the col- the International Finance Corpora- lective capacity of our organization tion, which is willing to consider and make this a new NREL—a place equity stakes in these kinds of pro- where good science gets done, where jects. They’d be even more willing the applications of that science are to finance projects if NREL could easily accessible to folks that will help sort out the appropriate apply them, and a place where

6 Summer 1995 NREL In Review Technology Transfer

New Airfoils Offer Top Performance

Now available for licensing, advanced airfoils keep U.S. companies on the leading edge of wind energy technology by Paula Pitchford machine with blades based on NREL’s nine different airfoil “families” for airfoils. A prototype machine blades 1 to 25 meters in length or underwent testing last year as part 2 to 1000 kilowatts in output. of a hybrid power system on Prince Other firms that manufacture f the current licensing trend con- Edward Island in eastern Canada. wind turbines or turbine blades tinues, blades based on NREL’s Advanced Wind Turbines Inc. of chiefly in the United States can advanced airfoils will soon be I Seattle, WA, and FloWind Corp. of obtain non-exclusive licenses for found atop thousands of new wind San Rafael, CA, have joined forces advanced airfoils from NREL and turbines both in the United States to manufacture several hundred of its managing contractor, the and abroad. their new 300-kilowatt, advanced Midwest Research Institute of NREL and its managing contrac- AWT turbines. Many of these Kansas City, MO. tor, the Midwest Research Institute, machines are slated for export to For more information, contact recently licensed advanced-airfoil India. NREL’s Technology Transfer Office technology to three U.S. wind com- And Zond Systems Inc. of panies. Two more agreements are at (303) 275-3008.♦ Tehachapi, CA, is producing a pending. dozen new turbines with Designed especially for wind 20-meter blades based on turbines, the new airfoils (cross- NREL’s advanced airfoils. sectional shapes) resist soiling from The machines will be part insects and airborne pollutants, of a six-megawatt wind which can reduce the energy produc- Warren Gretz/NREL power plant now being tion of conventional turbines by as built by Central and South- much as 50%. west Services Inc. in Texas. Sign here for better blades Move up to better The non-exclusive licenses will performance give American companies a competi- tive edge in growing world markets During the 1980s, wind for highly efficient, reliable wind tur- plant operators in Califor- bines as well as replacement blades nia had some serious prob- for older machines. lems with some of their Phoenix Industries of Crookston, turbines. MN, worked closely with NREL to “They saw a lot of develop the new airfoils. So far the burned-out generators and company has manufactured 80 sets transmissions because of of 8- and 10-meter replacement the excessive power blades for older wind machines in produced at high wind California. Turbines flying the new speeds,” said NREL’s Jim blades are showing improvements Tangler, who spearheaded the airfoil effort. in energy production amounting to Advanced Wind Turbines Inc.’s new 300-kilowatt machine 10% to 40% more electricity per year. To solve these problems, researchers at NREL and uses blades designed with advanced airfoils. Increased energy Atlantic Orient Co. of Norwich, production will pay back the licensing royalty fee in just two VT, is outfitting its 50-kilowatt Airfoils Inc. developed or three months of operation for most licensees.

NREL In Review Summer 1995 7 Partnerships

PV Partnerships Target The University of South Florida Stakeholder Input for received a $906,000, cost-reimbursable Thin Films subcontract to develop advanced Feedstock Research NREL has awarded four more processing schemes for solar cells Representatives from 10 organ- three-year subcontracts in a new part- made of CdTe and copper indium izations have joined forces to provide nership program designed to bring gallium diselenide. private industrial and public perspec- advanced photovoltaic (PV) products The University of Toledo in Ohio tive on biomass feedstock research into the marketplace. was awarded a two-year, cost-shared sponsored by the U.S. Department of Solar Cells Inc. of Toledo, OH, was subcontract in which NREL will pro- Energy’s Office of Energy Efficiency awarded a $3.5-million subcontract vide $225,000 to improve laser scrib- and Renewable Energy. to address key design and produc- ing and interconnection schemes for Participants in the Terrestrial tion issues for thin-film modules CdTe and CIS modules. Biomass Feedstock Interface project made of cadmium telluride (CdTe). Energy Photovoltaics Inc. of include Amoco, Exxon, the Nebraska Areas of special attention include Princeton, NJ, received a three-year, Ethanol Board, and the University of increased module efficiency and $3.9-million subcontract to develop Montana. The joint effort will iden- lower costs. faster and cheaper ways to coat glass tify promising biomass feedstocks for A $1.73-million, cost-shared sub- with thin CIS films. The new tech- biomass research, suggest ways to contract will allow International nique involves in-line vacuum meth- work with industry to create opportu- Solar Electric Technology (ISET) of ods similar to those currently used to nities for commercial biomass-to- Inglewood, CA, to develop PV mod- coat windows with films that reduce ethanol conversion, and promote ules based on copper indium dise- heat and glare. biofuels technologies. lenide (CIS). Research focuses on a These subcontracts under the Thin The committee, which met for very inexpensive, vacuumless fabrica- Film Partnership Program join pre- the first time in June, also seeks tion method. ISET has already dem- vious awards made to AstroPower companies, communities, and agen- onstrated 12%-efficient cells using Inc. of Newark, DE, and United Solar cies interested in developing local this technique. Efforts now focus on Systems Corp. of Troy, MI. For more fuel production industries. scale-up issues. information, contact Ken Zweibel at Committee members were (303) 384-6441. selected from more than 200 candi- dates who responded to a call for nominees last fall. Finalists were asked to serve two- or three-year terms.

Warren Gretz/NREL Sustainable Energy for States NREL has initiated a pilot pro- gram called Sustainable Technology Energy Partnerships to demonstrate specific ways for state energy offices and DOE’s national laboratories to speed the commercialization and deployment of laboratory research. As a result of this pilot program, a dozen states have come together to assess the use of photovoltaic (PV) systems in public parks, prisons, uni- versities, and other facilities. The as- sessment will go beyond standard capacity and cost considerations to in- clude aspects such as the ability to provide uninterrupted power for Switchgrass is one of many energy crops that can be converted into cleaner-burning transporta- high-security areas, historic building tion fuel.

8 Summer 1995 NREL In Review Partnerships

retrofits, and new facility building Comparing integration. In addition to facilitating the state Diesel and partnership, NREL will develop cost Biodiesel Fuels methods to assess the value of PV for A first-of-its-kind specific applications. NREL will also working group will work with participating states to estimate and compare compile data and identify overall the environmental value patterns for PV systems. and energy merits of For more information, contact biodiesel versus diesel NREL’s Christy Herig at (303) as transportation 384-6546. fuels. Called a full fuel cycle analysis, the Ultraviolet Light Destroys study will assess all the activities required Photo not available for Cleaning Solvents to produce, distribute, distribution on the Internet NREL recently teamed with IT and use both fuels. Corporation of Knoxville, TN, and What makes this International Fabricare Institute of study the first of its Silver Spring, MD, to clean up pol- kind is the diverse lutants and other organic contami- background of the nants associated with the dry participants, explains cleaning industry. John Sheehan, NREL’s Currently there are no cost- biodiesel project effective ways to clean up these sol- leader. Members vents. NREL and IT Corporation include the National are developing a process called pho- Biodiesel Board, the tocatalytic oxidation that could fill U.S. Department of this gap. The process, which uses Agriculture’s Office of ultraviolet light and special catalysts Energy, the U.S. Envi- to break down organic toxins, effec- ronmental Protection A researcher studies a DNA chromatagraph of microalgae for tively treats waste streams with low Agency’s Policy Office further analysis in NREL’s biodiesel research. flow rates and low concentrations of and National Vehicle contaminants, such as those typically Emissions Test Laboratory, and the Unlike nonrenewable diesel fuel, associated with dry cleaning. City of Chicago. Representation biodiesel is made from plant oils IT Corporation has taken the lead from the private sector includes the and animal fats. By adding 20% bio- in commercializing the technology National Biodiesel Board, a biodiesel diesel to #2 diesel, fleet operators for gaseous pollutants. An agree- trade association, and Twin Rivers can comply with stricter emissions ment between NREL and Interna- Technologies Inc. (one of several U.S. regulations without extensive modifi- tional Fabricare Institute will lead to companies poised to commercialize cation of existing vehicles. a better understanding of how photo- biodiesel in the United States). Biodiesel is currently produced catalytic oxidation could be used on Additional companies and agen- in small U.S. markets for about a commercial scale. cies have expressed interest in partici- 66¢ per liter—usually from soybeans. Results could help alleviate the pating, including ARCO Chemical According to Sheehan, technologies environmental challenges faced by and Canada’s Department of Energy. exist today to produce the fuel from about 30,000 small businesses The most important product of recycled fats and oils for about throughout the United States. the study will be a computer model 32¢ per liter. The goal of NREL’s For more information on photo- that will help businesses and gov- research is to develop technologies catalytic oxidation, contact NREL’s ernment agencies to assess the eco- that use microalgae to convert coal Carol Lyons at (303) 275-7439. nomic, environmental, and energy power plant flue gas into biodiesel aspects of the two fuels. for 26¢ per liter by 2015.♦

NREL In Review Summer 1995 9 Photo not available for Solar distribution on the Internet for South Africa

NREL and Spire Corp. team with a South African business to build an assembly plant for photovoltaic

modules—a move that could create large markets Photo not available for for American-made products distribution on the Internet by Linda R. Brown project that involves everybody working toward a common goal.” Spire plans to ship components for the new manufacturing line this urban, South Africa, is a summer, with module production modern industrial center in full swing by August. Possible with the same kind of sky- D uses for PV systems in South Africa scrapers and traffic jams you’d find This South African family is enjoying electric include water pumping, as well as in many American cities. But in rural lights for the first time thanks to a PV module producing electricity for lights, televi- areas of South Africa, about 10 mil- installed by the University of Port Elizabeth. sions, radios, and refrigerators. lion people live beyond the reach of Dr. Ernest van Dyk (right) and a student at A black empowerment organiza- power lines and the modern lifestyle the University of Port Elizabeth inspect a PV tion called Renaissance is creating a that goes with them. module manufactured by Siemens Solar Indus- politically neutral company to oper- Bob McConnell of NREL’s Photo- tries of California. Van Dyk is now a visiting ate the assembly plant. Renaissance voltaics Division has been going to researcher at NREL. will also arrange start-up funding for Durban to help change that situation. the new business and train its black With funding from DOE’s Office of managers. Energy Efficiency and Renewable The University of Port Elizabeth Energy, NREL has subcontracted is already using Spire equipment to Spire Corp. of Bedford, MA, to help test the performance of PV modules. a black-owned South African busi- Lecturer Ernest van Dyk recently ness build an assembly plant for traveled from the university to manufacturing photovoltaic (PV) NREL, where he is working with modules. Dick DeBlasio to learn more about The project dovetails nicely with Photo not available for module performance and reliability Nelson Mandela’s efforts to bring distribution on the Internet testing. electricity to remote areas of South The Durban plant will be able to Africa. It will also open up a large produce modules totaling 500 kilo- new market for American-made watts of generating capacity per solar cells. year. This is only a fraction of the “This is a fascinating project,” says potential market for PV throughout McConnell. “Apartheid has been Africa, a continent where 540 million abolished and now we have a PV people currently lack access to electricity.♦

10 Summer 1995 NREL In Review Integrating Renewables

A recent NREL report takes a look at integrating renewable energy technologies with electric utility grids

unshine and wind. For years, utility S decision makers have questioned whether Years of experience have shown that wind tur- these nondepletable—but bines can supply up to 8% of Pacific Gas & intermittently available—energy Studies also indicate that penetra- tion levels could exceed 10% in some Electric Co.’s electricity demand with no com- sources could be successfully inte- patability problems for the utility. These grated with electric power supplies. instances. The limit must be judged Micon machines are part of a large windfarm NREL analysts have reviewed on a case-by-case basis, taking into at Altamont Pass, CA. Photo courtesy of more than 300 studies of intermittent account factors such as resource vari- Warren Gretz/NREL renewable energy technologies. ability in a specific location as well as They’ve found that newer studies specific load characteristics and the invalidate several common miscon- overall generating mix of the utility. In addition, we must develop ceptions about integrating renew- When the output of an intermit- better planning tools to account for ables. Other concerns are close to tent renewable technology is well advantages such as clean power pro- resolution. matched with electricity demand, duction, fuel diversity, modularity, it can add capacity value as well as and shorter project lead times. When Dispelling the misconceptions diversity to a utility’s energy mix. combined with better resource data and modeling, these tools will help Early studies often overstated Identifying today’s challenges the adverse effects of intermittent utilities gauge the true value of add- renewables, primarily because of NREL’s report identifies several ing renewable energy capacity. inadequate information about both factors still impeding the widespread the resources and the technologies. adoption of renewables. Recent studies are more optimistic, For example, even though capital This article summarizes a recent reflecting advances in the technolo- and energy costs are far lower than NREL report entitled Factors Relevant gies and a better understanding of a decade ago, further reductions to Utility Integration of Intermittent their interaction with utility systems. are necessary to compete with non- Renewable Technologies, authored In the late 1970s and 1980s, intermittent conventional energy by Yih-huei Wan and Brian Parsons of studies predicted that operational sources in many applications. the Analytic Studies Division. To problems and high costs would The cost of transporting electricity request a copy of this report, contact limit the penetration of intermittent from a renewable energy project to a NREL’s Document Distribution Service, renewables to about 5% of a utility’s utility’s transmission system also 1617 Cole Blvd., Golden, CO 80401, total capacity. Newer studies show may be a factor. Substantial wind and (303) 275-4363, FAX (303) 275-4053.♦ that penetration levels of 10% or solar resources may be located at the more are possible with today’s peripheries of utility systems, requir- technologies. ing costly new transmission facilities or connection to existing lines.

NREL In Review Summer 1995 11 s Across the W and ater H 300

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Gigawatts of electricity

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0 North Europe Pacific South East China Latin Africa America Asia Asia America NREL is building bridges for U.S. companies to enter profitable international markets for renewable energy technologies by Gary Cook had enough wind to justify a $100- arena. Similar analyses are determin- million renewable energy project ing solar resources in nations around planned for those islands. Before he the world. Eventually NREL hopes analyzed the situation, the World to be able to analyze all global renew- tanding on a Yucatan beach, Bank had decided not to consider able energy resources. NREL’s Dennis Elliott felt the wind energy because of a perceived Among its many international power of the wind. He saw S lack of wind resource. activities, NREL is helping to trees bent from the continual breezes. Elliott frequently runs across this develop photovoltaic power for And he knew what others didn’t: problem in developing nations, remote regions of Indonesia, plan- there was enough wind here to gen- which often lack the technology for ning wind power for villages in erate electricity for Xcalak, a nearby accurate assessments. Instrumenta- Central America, assessing resources village. tion is often installed in the wrong in Chile, hosting African ambassa- Elliott was gathering wind places to measure local resources. dors, and joining government offi- resource data in the Yucatan at the Or measurement devices are too cials on trade missions to China and behest of U.S. industry. He had old and haven’t been maintained India. provided this service for other properly, thereby decreasing their parts of the world. In Indonesia, he accuracy. Cultivating markets showed that some remote islands In the Yucatan, Elliott didn’t need Economies of developing nations to inspect the instrumentation. All he are growing. For example, China’s The World Bank estimates had to do was look at the historical economy has grown by about 10% data records to determine that the per year for more than a decade. that two billion people are measuring devices were too old to Similar situations exist in other currently without be of much use. nations, where markets for renew- Instead, he examined ship’s able energy technologies look more electricity, and that millions records of coastal area winds. Extrap- inviting than those at home. of villages are well away olating from these data, Elliott pro- duced resource maps that showed from established grids or there was ample wind for generating power for Xcalak. Above illustration: The International Energy supply routes. Agency predicts that many nations will be This is just one example of NREL’s experiencing incremental growth in power expanding efforts in the international generation capacity during the next ten years.

12 Summer 1995 NREL In Review Most developing nations need energy, but vast areas have no estab- Playing the international card lished energy infrastructure. The The Solar Energy Research Institute (now NREL) was founded in 1977 World Bank estimates that two bil- to help establish a domestic renewable energy industry and to accelerate lion people are currently without the entry of new energy technologies into the marketplace. electricity, and that millions of vil- Our strategy to meet this mission has long been based on technology lages are well away from established push, in which technological innovation would increase system efficiency, grids or supply routes. reliability, and longevity. Industry would incorporate these advances into No infrastructure means that con- their products, thereby reducing costs and boosting sales. This in turn ventional forms of energy can cost would create economies of scale in production to lower costs even further, a great deal. In the far reaches of and so on. Brazil, it often takes as much as two Many technologies have indeed made excellent progress. But the domes- gallons of diesel fuel to transport one tic market appears to be flattening out. Reasons range from the continued gallon of fuel to a home or school. low cost of oil to legislation such as the Energy Policy Act of 1992 (EPAct). This cost helps make renewable Among other things, EPAct is forcing utilities to seek the cheapest, energy the cheapest alternative in fastest, safest way to add new generating capacity. The uncertainties sur- many areas. rounding this process have also created uncertainties about near-term pros- The international market for pects for the widespread adoption of renewable energy technologies in the renewables is bigger than current United States. U.S. production capacity can han- Meanwhile, the cost of renewable energy will continue to decline as tech- dle—and will be for years. For exam- nologies improve. But costs would decline even further if companies could ple, about 75% of the present market achieve economies of scale in production. This can occur by competing in for American-made photovoltaic tough, fast-paced international markets. NREL is now helping the renew- systems is in international sales. able energy industry play the winning card with its new international Increased sales overseas will support program. more production capacity at home, lowering costs through economies of industry to work together in the a company—a devotion of time, scale. This will make U.S. products international arena. personnel, and money that small more competitive both internation- In northeastern Brazil, NREL companies often can’t afford. So ally and domestically. is helping to bring photovoltaic- what can small companies do to Benefitting U.S. businesses generated electricity to remote vil- tap the expanding international Strengthening the U.S. renewable lages. Along with officials from markets? And how do NREL’s energy industry has long been part DOE’s office of Energy Efficiency international activities help them? of DOE’s and NREL’s mission. Past and Renewable Energy, NREL staff In addition to supporting small efforts have focused on developing members made initial contacts with companies with guidance, expertise, technologies for domestic use. But the Brazilian government. They also and cost-shared funding, NREL is recent regulatory and economic set up relationships with the state playing an increasingly important trends have created a flat domestic utilities, gave technical advice on role in building bridges to foreign market. Therefore it’s increasingly constructing and maintaining the markets. important for government and systems, and continue to monitor For example, staff members their operation. As a result, Brazil gather and document financial, mar- is considering expanded use of ket, legal, resource information that renewable energy technologies in enables companies to enter various other states. markets. They also join companies, industry associations, and DOE offi- Tapping into NREL’s activities cials on trade missions; provide tech- Doing business in foreign coun- nical expertise as well as resource tries takes a large commitment from and site analyses; and offer a bal- anced perspective for what kinds of energy systems may be needed for TheWorldBank particular sites.

NREL In Review Summer 1995 13 N

200 Kilometers the environment, but aren’t necessar- ily related to energy. Unfortunately, the development banks don’t have the expertise to determine what technologies are Wind Power Classification for appropriate, nor whether the Rural Power Applications resource is adequate. That’s where Wind Wind Power Wind Speeda Resource Power Density at 30 m at 30 m Potential NREL comes in. Class (W/m2 ) (m/s) 0 0 CD-SS24-A350704 Sam Baldwin, the Laboratory’s 1 Poor 75 3.5–4.5 new director of international activi- 2 Useful 150 4.1– 5.6 ties, will be working for the next 3 Good 250 4.9–6.7 18 months in Washington, DC, as a 4 Excellent 500 6.1–8.4 liaison between NREL, the World Mountain Terrain a Range of wind speeds is based on the Weibull k values of 1.25 to 3.0 found throughoutthe different regions of Mexico Bank, other development banks, trade organizations, and repre- Resource data can help lending institutions make more informed decisions about renewable sentatives from various nations. energy projects. This map shows wind resources in Mexico suitable for hybrid or stand-alone wind systems.

NREL also provides technical Many developing nations were In addition to supporting expertise, analyses, and resource unwilling to carry this extra burden small companies with data to the development banks, unless they could obtain proper including the World Bank, Inter- financing. guidance, expertise, and American Development Bank, Asian The banks agreed to finance more cost-shared funding, NREL Development Bank, and African benign development. In its 1992 Development Bank. This kind of annual report, the World Bank pre- is playing an increasingly information and assistance allows sented an argument for development important role in building financing organizations to make of renewable energy technologies more informed decisions about mak- in developing nations. And in 1994, bridges to foreign markets. ing loans or granting funds to U.S. the World Bank formally began companies. spurring the development of these International development banks technologies. Baldwin’s other duties include are the crucial link to the growing The initiative includes a strategy coordinating NREL’s international world market for renewable energy. to group projects under single block activities, providing a perspective But until lately these organizations loans or grants, thus relieving the wider than that belonging to a single have favored funding for large con- burden that might otherwise technology. He will also adjudicate ventional energy projects. overwhelm the management and among technologies when there’s a In the early 1990s, things began to monitoring of small renewable question as to what systems would change. For many years the banks energy projects. be best suited for a particular project. were criticized for financing projects Another part of the initiative is a This will provide much-needed coor- that neglected the development of $2-billion grant program known as dination of efforts among individual remote areas and that often devas- the Global Environmental Facility technologies. tated the environment. This came (GEF), a pool of money that’s given For more information on NREL’s to a head at the 1992 conference in to deserving projects. The GEF is international activities, contact Sam Rio De Janeiro, where government charged with demonstrating the Baldwin at (202) 651-7500. Informa- and nongovernment organizations value of promising technologies. tion on World Bank activities can demanded a more benign strategy. Under this program, $1 billion is be obtained from its Industry and In addition, the so-called industrial specifically dedicated to reducing Energy Department, Washington, nations asked their developing neigh- the emission of greenhouse gases DC, (202) 458-4755.♦ bors to develop their energy sources through renewable energy projects. and enhance their economies with- The other $1 billion is for projects out adding to global climate change. that also promise to be friendly to

14 Summer 1995 NREL In Review Technical News

Cleaning Up With Microorganisms

NREL researchers have

uncovered a wealth of Warren Gretz/NREL microscopic algae and bacteria to detoxify waste streams, soil, and groundwater

ioremediation isn’t simply a matter of throwing a few B microscopic “bugs” at toxic materials. Effective systems require careful science and diligent engineer- ing. NREL researchers have used the expertise and capabilities they’ve acquired from years of research funded by DOE to pioneer new advances in bioremediation. Microorganisms such as bacteria A researcher checks a sample of photosynthetic bacteria, which have the special ability to degrade and microalgae are useful partners toxic organic compounds such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). for many tasks. Although originally acquired for use in producing fuels How does this slick approach periodically remove the filter to har- such as methane or ethanol, many of work? Many single-cell algae vest accumulated metals or metal- the microorganisms in NREL’s produce a layer of slime around saturated algae for easy disposal or extensive collection can be used to themselves. Polysaccharides in the recovery. Before they replace the remove leachable toxic metal ions slime have an affinity for metal ions filter, operators adjust the reactor’s from waste streams as well as con- in solution. This ability can be har- nutrient supply to replenish the taminated groundwater or soil. nessed to create selective biological microalgae population and promote Other microbes can degrade organic ion exchange resins. further growth of the slime layer. toxins to harmless materials or con- NREL scientist Steve Toon has NREL’s bioremediation team has vert them to useful energy sources. screened algae for their ability to an extensive microalgae collection bind metals. The algae are embedded for metals remediation. This collec- Algae trap toxic metals in a fiberglass filter that’s placed tion was developed as part of Leachable toxic metal ions are inside specially designed bioreactors, NREL’s biodiesel research, in which widespread, serious contaminants where they adsorb metals from microalgae use carbon dioxide in the of our nation’s soil and groundwater. waste streams such as acid mine atmosphere to produce high yields NREL scientists have discovered that drainage. As contaminated water of lipids (oils) for conversion to a certain algae produce a slimy coating flows through the reactor, the slime clean-burning transportation fuel. that captures these metal ions for layer traps the metal ions and The tremendous growth rate of these easier disposal or recovery. allows contaminant-free water to microalgae also makes them useful continue flowing. Reactor operators for metals remediation.

NREL In Review Summer 1995 15 Technical News

Senior biologist Paul Roessler now supervises a collection of more than 400 algal strains, many of which

were isolated from special environ- Warren Gretz/NREL mental niches such as saline desert environments. Bacteria remove heavy metals Algae aren’t the only microorgan- isms that produce polysaccharide slime layers. Some photosynthetic bacteria also have this ability and can be harnessed to reduce metal ions for concentration and recovery from water or soil. The technology can be applied to radionuclides as well as the waste streams of indus- tries such as metal plating, metal finishing, and computer chip manufacturing. NREL engineer George Philippidis uses the common bacterium Initially developed to convert mixtures of cellulosic and fatty wastes into methane, NREL’s high solids reactor could also be used for the bioremediation of petroleum refinery waste and Microorganism other undesirable material.

Escherichia coli to capture soluble the same way that plants do. NREL Hg2+ mercury ions—metal contaminants researchers have been exploring the

CD-SS24-A350702 that are some of the most notorious use of these “solar” bacteria to pro- Hg Reductase for causing health problems. duce hydrogen to be used as a clean, Transport Enzyme Philippidis also uses bacteria to abundant source of energy. As it Proteins reduce metals such as lead, copper, turns out, photosynthetic bacteria arsenic, cadmium, silver, and gold. also can be harnessed to convert In this work, he applies metabolic highly toxic organic wastes to valu- modeling, cell-permeability treat- able methane. ment, genetic engineering, and other Microbiologist Pin-Ching Maness capabilities developed through has isolated three bacterial strains NREL’s biomass-to-ethanol research capable of remediating organic con- program. taminants in soil and water. Two of Biochemical engineer Ali these photosynthetic bacteria digest Hg0 Mohagheghi is studying the use of m-chlorobenzoate, a principal break- sulfate-reducing bacteria to recover down product of both chlorinated soluble uranium VI ions. The bacte- pesticides and polychlorinated ria produce hydrogen sulfide, which biphenyls (PCBs). The other bacterial reduces the uranium ions to form strain digests p-cresol, a principal insoluble uranium IV oxide. The breakdown product of creosote, bacteria provide a surface for the which is widely used as a wood pre- Recovery reaction, and the uranium oxide servative but is toxic to living plants. precipitates out for recovery. Photosynthetic bacteria have an The common bacterium Escherichia coli important advantage over other captures soluble mercury ions and holds them Photosynthetic bacteria feed types of microorganisms commonly for recovery. These metal contaminants are on organic toxins used for bioremediation: they obtain some of the most notorious for causing health Photosynthetic bacteria use sun- their energy directly from the sun, problems. light to produce energy in much using only the contaminants as a

16 Summer 1995 NREL In Review Technical News

carbon source. This makes them action. For example, the high solids processes, modeling and analysis of highly effective in situations where reactor developed by Chris Rivard project economics, and integrating energy-yielding nutrients aren’t is far more efficient and economical processes to understand the interac- readily available. than the low solids anaerobic diges- tion of multiple steps. They also Senior microbiologist Chris Rivard tion traditionally used in sewage understand how to take advantage has adapted natural microbes to treatment plants. NREL has subcon- of opportunities for recycling and degrade furfural. This toxic chemical tracted Bioengineering Resources using byproducts. Facilities and equip- is commonly used as a weed killer. Inc. of Fayetteville, AR, to build a ment available to industry partners It’s also generated by sulfite pulp- major pilot plant for testing the use include a recently completed ing to make paper; during the of NREL’s high solids reactor in biomass-to-ethanol pilot plant, capa- production of fruit juices, wines, processing municipal solid waste ble of processing one ton of feedstock and medical solutions; and as an and tuna cannery waste. per day. The pilot plant can also be unwanted byproduct of biomass-to- The high solids reactor is one of used for bioremediation projects. ethanol fermentation. many examples of NREL capabilities Rivard and other NREL scientists gleaned from more than a decade of have developed closed reactor sys- energy-related research. These capa- This article was adapted from a six- tems that increase mixing of bacteria bilities can help U.S. industries page capabilities brief entitled “Biore- and wastes for more efficient anaero- develop, scale up, and commercialize mediation from the Biofuels People” bic digestion, a process that trans- new bioremediation methods. NREL’s by Chris Rivard and Howard Brown. forms organic material into useful team members have expertise in For more information on NREL’s biore- gardening compost and methane for microbiology, molecular biology, mediation technologies or research power generation. By using closed overall system design, computer capabilities, contact Chris Rivard at reactors for the bioremediation of modeling of biological and chemical (303) 384-7631.♦ organic toxins, Rivard and his team also prevent these volatile com- pounds from evaporating. The bacteria used in this process occur naturally and can be safely used in the environment for cleaning up Mike Linenberger/NREL toxic spills. NREL is now exploring the use of anaerobic digestion for a major industrial waste stream: the acetoni- trile and cyanide byproducts from making acrylonitrile, a basic chemi- cal used in producing synthetic rub- ber and plastics. These byproducts are usually incinerated, but increas- ingly stringent regulation of this disposal method has opened the door for approaches such as bioreme- diation. Environmental scientist Nick Nagle and other NREL researchers are developing anaerobic digestion for this purpose. Innovative reactor systems multiply effectiveness A key element of NREL’s bioreme- diation research is designing innova- tive reactor systems that create the best possible conditions for microbial Laboratory-scale fixed film and upflow anaerobic sludge blanket systems clean up liquid waste streams.

NREL In Review Summer 1995 17 Energy Software’s Best Test

Architects and engineers can have more confidence in computerized predictions of building energy use thanks to a new tool called BESTEST

REL researcher Ron 500 Judkoff has developed a N new diagnostic method to improve the accuracy of computer 400

energy software programs. Called CD-SS24-A350706 BESTEST—Building Energy Simula- tion Test—the new tool ultimately 300 will allow architects and engineers to make better predictions of building energy performance. 200

Energy use, comfort levels, and Hourly frequency lighting quality in a building depend on many complex interactions. Com- 100 puter simulation is the only practical way to bring such complex systems 0 integration problems within the -20 -10 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 grasp of building designers. But Temperature (°C) today’s energy software programs can produce widely diverging results In this BESTEST plot, the calculated results from six simulation programs fell within the even when considering identical shaded envelope. Results from another program, shown by the dotted curve, deviate drastically structural designs, energy-related from the envelope. When computer code “bugs” revealed by BESTEST diagnostics were fixed, equipment, and energy use patterns. the results fell within the range of the other programs. BESTEST can help sort through relatively complex, according to a building energy computer programs these discrepancies in several ways. scheme of diagnostic logic. Output studied. Users can compare the predictions values can include factors such as The American Society of Heating, of a building energy program to the peak loads, annual loads, and Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning results of a detailed reference pro- temperature ranges. Engineers is adopting BESTEST as gram. Users can also diagnose the The BESTEST procedure is part a “standard method of test.” And algorithm-based differences in pre- of an overall validation method first after reviewing a draft version of dictions observed between several developed at NREL in 1983 that com- BESTEST, California’s State Energy simulation programs. A programmer bines analytical, empirical, and com- Commission has also adopted the can check modifications to a pre- parative techniques. It compares a method for evaluating its building- vious software version by comparing given program with other state-of- energy analysis software. NREL is the modified version to the original, the-art programs that have been also developing versions of BESTEST thereby ensuring that only desired analytically verified and validated that will be the basis for testing soft- changes were made. Software devel- in real buildings. “Failing” a test ware in the National Home Energy opers can also investigate an algo- doesn’t necessarily indicate a faulty Rating System initiative. rithm’s sensitivity to changes by program, but rather differences to BESTEST was developed as part checking the modified version be studied and understood. of an International Energy Agency against the original. In practice, the diagnostic proce- project and has been field tested in BESTEST performs these feats by dures have revealed bugs, faulty seven European countries. applying a series of carefully speci- algorithms, and modeling limitations For more information, contact fied test-case buildings that progress in every one of the world-class Ron Judkoff at (303) 384-7520.♦ from the extremely simple to the

18 Summer 1995 NREL In Review Publications

Bioremediation from the Biofuels People NREL/MK-336-6937 Scientists and engineers in NREL’s Biofuels Division are using their con- siderable skills in biochemistry, microbiology, and environmental science to find solutions for some troublesome toxic waste problems. This six-page brochure introduces the people and explains how they work with industry to find “bioremedies” for many earthly ills involving the contamination of industrial waste streams by toxic metals and organics.

Solar Industrial Program 1994 Review DOE/GO-10095-125, DE95004025 What if you could use highly concentrated sunlight to turn environmental contaminants into simple, harmless molecules? Or install a large, inexpen- sive metal “wall” outside your building to warm up the air inside—and save on heating bills? You can do both, and more. This 16-page booklet describes how DOE’s Solar Industrial Program staff worked with industry in 1994 on numerous projects to develop energy-efficient, cost-effective processes and products like these.

Hydrogen Program Overview DOE/GO-10095-088, DE94011827 Small wonder that so many people believe versatile hydrogen will be the energy carrier of the twenty-first century: it can be produced from water, and when burned, its byproduct is also harmless water. Utility planners and transportation engineers are excited about such a potentially self-sustaining, environmentally benign system for energy production and use. This informa- tive 28-page booklet describes DOE’s current R&D programs highlighting the critical role of renewable energy technologies in developing and refining hydrogen production, transport, and storage.

NREL Information Resources Catalog, 1994 NREL/SP-336-7233, DE94011900 You say the kind of publication you need isn’t listed on this page? Try our 75-page Information Resources Catalog, which lists hundreds of NREL’s most recent periodicals, general-interest publications, technical reports, and journal articles on a raft of topics in renewable energy and energy efficiency. The catalog covers 22 subjects ranging from basic sciences to wind energy. Order forms are included.

These publications are available without charge from NREL’s Document Distribution Serv- ice, 1617 Cole Boulevard, Golden, CO 80401-3393, (303) 275-4363, FAX (303) 275-4053.

NREL In Review Summer 1995 19 Calendar/Technical Reports

NREL-Hosted Meetings Technical Reports 2nd Biomass of the Americas The following technical reports August 21 through August 24; Portland, Oregon provide technical information Dori Nielsen, (303) 275-4350, FAX (303) 275-4320 on some of NREL’s research and PV Performance and Reliability analysis projects. These reports September 7 through September 8; Lakewood, Colorado are avilable in limited quantities Jeri Wagner, (303) 275-4317, FAX (303) 275-4320 from NREL’s Document Distribu- tion Service at (303) 275-4363 or Clean Cities Conference FAX (303) 275-4053. September 10 through September 13; St. Louis, Missouri Blake, D.M. (January 1995). Jeri Wagner, (303) 275-4317, FAX (303) 275-4320 Solar Photochemistry—Twenty Years of Progress, What’s Been Accom- TechView ‘95 plished, and Where Does it Lead? September 20 through September 21; Golden, Colorado Order no. TP-433-7209; 9 pp. Dori Nielsen, (303) 275-4350, FAX (303) 275-4320 Buhl, M.L. (January 1995). GPP Gas Turbine/Renewable Conference User’s Guide: A General-Purpose October 12 through October 13; Denver, Colorado Postprocessor for Wind Turbine Data Jeri Wagner, (303) 275-4317, FAX (303) 275-4320 Analysis. Order no. TP-442-7111; 39 pp. Carasso, M. (March 1995). National/International Meetings Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Technology Characteriza- 1995 ISES Solar World Congress—In Search of the Sun tions: Working Definitions, Guide- September 9 through September 16; Harare, Zimbabwe lines, and Forms. Order no. TP- The Conference Convenor, In Search of the Sun, 1995 ISES Solar 462-7549; 22 pp. World Congress, P.O. Box MP 119, Mount Pleasant, Harare, Zimbabwe Corbus, D.; Hammel, C.J. (Feb- IEA Photovoltaic Power Systems Conference ruary 1995). Current Status of Envi- September 17 through September 20; Sun Valley, Idaho ronmental, Health, and Safety Issues International Energy Agency, J. Abramowski, 2 rue Andre Pascal, of Lithium Polymer Electric Vehicle F-75775, Paris Cedex 16, France, Telefax 0033/1/4524-9475 Batteries. Order no. TP-463-7540; 78 pp. 13th European Photovoltaic Solar Energy Conference and Exhibition Nimlos, M.R.; Wolfrum, E.J.; October 23 through October 27; Nice, France Gratson, D.A.; Watt, A.S.; Turchi, ADEME, 30 rue Gadeau de Kerville, F-76100, Rouen, France C. (January 1995). Review of Research Results for the Photocata- Fifth International Seminar on Double Layer Capacitors and Similar lytic Oxidation of Hazardous Wastes Energy Storage Systems in Air. Order no. TP-433-6943; December 4 through December 6; Deerfield Beach, Florida 56 pp. Florida Educational Seminars Inc., (407) 338-8727, Ring, S. (December 1994). Envi- FAX (407) 338-6887 ronment, Health, and Safety Issues 6th International ASES Conference: Thermal Performances of the of Fuel Cells in Transportation—Vol- Exterior Envelopes of Buildings ume 1: Phosphoric Acid Fuel-Cell December 4 through December 8, Clearwater Beach, Florida Buses. Order no. TP-463-6831; Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Thermal Envelopes Conference, 92 pp. P. Love, P.O. Box 2008, Building 3147, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 39831 Short, W.; Packey, D.J.; Holt, T.A. (March 1995). A Manual for the Economic Evaluation of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Technologies. Order no. TP-462- 5173; 124 pp.♦

20 Summer 1995 NREL In Review National Renewable Energy Laboratory 1617 Cole Boulevard Golden, CO 80401-3393 NREL is a DOE national laboratory managed by the Midwest Research Institute. For more information on work supported by DOE’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, contact David M. Blanchfield, Golden Field Office, (303) 275-4797. DOE’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy is managed by Christine Ervin, Assistant Secretary

Key NREL Contacts Technical Inquiries: Steve Rubin, (303) 275-4099 Technology Transfer Office: (303) 275-3008 Utilities: Gary Nakarado, (303) 275-3072 State and Local Governments: Carol Tombari, (303) 275-3057 International Programs: Sam Baldwin, (202) 651-7500 Media: Kerry Masson, (303) 275-4090

Director’s Office Charles F. Gay, Laboratory Director Bill Marshall, Deputy Director for Operations Linda Lung, Education Programs

Alternative Fuels Division Charles Wyman, Director

Analytic Studies Division Thomas Bath, Director

Basic Sciences Division Satyen Deb, Director

Buildings and Energy Systems Division Steve Hauser, Director

Industrial Technologies Division Helena Chum, Director

Photovoltaics Division Anthony Catalano, Director

Wind Technology Division Robert Thresher, Director

Washington, D.C., Office Eldon Boes, Manager Inside this issue: Director Charlie Gay discusses NREL’s future — page 2 Advanced airfoils available for licensing — page 7 New market for solar cells in South Africa — page 10 Bioremediation cleans up toxic materials — page 15

Empowering America with new energy choices

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