Green Energy News | January 13, 1997

January 13, 1997 – Vol.1 No.41

ENERGIES... week of January 13, 1997

A MORE GENTLE SUN. Astronomers at the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center and at Yale University predict the next solar cycle will be one of the quietest in 400 years - bucking a historical trend. Solar cycles last about 11 years and have been recorded, and numbered, for more than 200. Historically cycles with an odd number are more active than even, yet the astronomers believe that changes in the sun’s magnetic field will result in fewer solar flares for cycle number 23 now beginning.

Some of the most violent cycles ever recorded have been in the last 50 years with more than 200 flares recorded in 1958, and 170 for 1989 and 1991. Solar flares can trigger power outages, destroy radio signals, deplete ozone, and cause possibly cause climate changes. A quieter sun in the next cycle could cause slightly cooler global temperatures.

Global warming watchers should follow climatologists advice and follow changes in climate and weather patterns planet-wide and on a decadal time scale. A cooler sun for at least the new cycle, and perhaps cooler temperatures, should create some interesting discussions of the controversial subject of climate change.

GM EV1 UPDATE. The latest figures from the Saturn Corp. show that 76 EV1 two seat battery powered coupes have been delivered, 30 more await in the pipeline with confirmed leases and another 550 prospective lessees have gone through the extensive survey process Saturn conducts before approving the contracts. The survey includes questions concerning commuting distances, electrical service at home and recharging capability at work.

Typically those who have leased the car have incomes between $125,000 -150,000 and are between 35-54 years old with 85% having 4 years or more of college. Most are considered early adaptors to new technologies - like those who rush out and buy the newest computers when they hit the market. When the EV1 finds a spot in the driveway it is often the third or fourth car.

Saturn says interest in the EV1 has exceeded expectations. The company isn’t sure what will happen to the cars when the first leases expire in 30 months and lessees must turn them in.