Solar power is one form of alternative energy that is becoming more and more popular to use. However, I think most would agree that the look of photovoltaic panels is not exactly the most attractive. Although most of the time they are placed on roofs where very few can see, they still do not look ideal. An architect from Barcelona, Andre Broessel, has designed a new type of solar power system that almost resembles a piece of artwork.

Through the news and other media it is apparent that there is a strong need and desire for cleaner energy sources. However, there are also complaints throughout the media that people are not warming up to the idea of these alternative energy sources, or that the amount of them being purchased is declining. One of the major reasons is because of the high prices of purchasing and installing such systems.

However, The Huffington Post recently came out with an article about how the opposite is actually true, specifically for solar energy. More U.S. citizens or companies are purchasing solar energy equipment, but from Chinese manufacturers because they are cheaper. Therefore, U.S. solar equipment manufacturers are the only ones suffering and seeing a drop in sales. According to the Energy Information Agency, there has actually been a three percent increase in the use of clean energy in general in the past four years alone, which has made the amount of clean energy users double. Some Chinese manufacturers provide clean energy equipment at around a 65% discounted price. The other clean energy companies that are seeing an increase in sales are the companies that manufacture, deliver and install the equipment, because it is easier and less expensive than hiring three separate companies.

Universities, more than businesses and other institutions, are really trying to do their part to move closer to a sustainable environment. In doing so, they are providing a good example for their students so that they continue practiving living a greener life outside of the school. Here are the top ten greenest universities, in no particular order, in the United States:

With the search and production of alternative energy sources, there is a growing demand for Green jobs and careers. This demand is expected to increase significantly throughout the next decade or so. Here are the highest paying Green related jobs out there right now:

A while back we had an article about how Formula One racing was studying ways to go greener in order to put greener technology into road cars. Not only can it make cars greener but also can make green cars safer. Introducing the T27, a tiny electric powered city car by former F1 designer Gordon Murray.

In today’s world there is lots of talk about the “green industry” and “green jobs.” Currently, the hope is that with new innovations in technology and increase in Government support, green jobs will be created and will flood the market with new opportunities.