Betting on the Sun

[airiefairie.livejournal.com]

http://ct.tarekshalaby.com/component/content/article/79-the-maadi-1913-solar-power-machine

This dates back to 1913. Almost a century ago, a solar power plant was built near Cairo. It had parabolic solar reflectors, heating tubes full of water, creating steam that powered a generator, which in turn pushed a pump that would supply water from the Nile for irrigation.

The installation was designed by Frank Schuman and had a capacity of 60 horsepower. It was abandoned soon. But it was the first attempt at harnessing solar power for electricity production. An Egyptian newspaper came with an enthusiastic headline, heralding a new era for the Tropics, promising that they would become the Horn of Plenty in energy production, and "the power plant of the whole world".

( Today the idea of harnessing solar power seems to be more viable than ever )

Why should anyone vote Republican?

[tangaroa.livejournal.com]

The Republicans have very little going for them. They are wrong on economic policy, they reject the Constitution, they celebrate and protect corruption, they are completely without morals. The only reason to vote for one might be if the Democrats decide to openly side with al-Qaeda or something.
( Read more... )