I first started keeping an eye on the Enviromission solar tower project back in 2001. I actually first heard about the idea back in the 80s when Beyond 2000 did a piece on the proof of concept tower built in Spain. The pilot ran for seven years, shutting down in 1989.

By 2003 they were going to build their full scale tower in New South Wales, but now it looks like there will be towers in the USA and Europe before they get back to building one here:

Whilst EnviroMission now expects the first Solar Tower will be developed in the USA, it is felt international development will provide important leverage to increase development prospects in Australia. EnviroMission is seeking the strongest business case for development, and conditions in the USA support development ahead of Australia at this time.

EnviroMission commenced development of the European version of the concept known as the Solar Chimney under the terms of an exclusive licence with global developer, SolarMission Technologies, Inc.

EnviroMission Limited – Technology : Technology Overview

It's a pity to see such a cool project ditching plans to build first in Australia.

Labels: enviromission

Long time readers (*collapses laughing*) may recall the solar energy project which proposes a Solar Tower; using the updraft from a greenhouse to spin a turbine. A really fantastic idea, IMHO. Anyway, (according to the EnviroMission Limited - News page) they've signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Australia's biggest energy supplier to have all power purchased from the project; released shares; reduced running costs (and staff, sadly); and progressed with a site. Oh yeah... and they've confirmed it is feasible to build the tower, these small details :P

Seems to be chugging along. I really hope this one goes the distance. Australia has MMFD (miles and miles of fucking desert) and the brains to turn it into clean energy. Hopefully this project won't go the way of all other Aussie ideas - bought out by foreign interests after a total lack of local interest.

I was prompted to look up progress after seeing this article on wind power.... Feature Article: Weekly Feature - Steady As She Blows: Power electronics and exotic energy storage devices are making wind power steady enough to compete with conventional electricity sources.

Labels: enviromission

More information on the solar generator I mentioned earlier: EnviroMission Limited.

Labels: enviromission