Google Gadget To Help You Conserve On Earth Day

Google has an interesting little desktop gadget that helps you conserve energy when your Windows XP or Vista PC is not in use. The Energy Saver Gadget enables and optimizes your Windows power settings to EPA recommended standards and shows you how much energy you've saved as well as how much energy has been saved by all those using the gadget. An important feature is the "Pause" button allowing you to keep your computer from turning off when you are watching a movie or giving a presentation. You'll need Google Desktop installed! Thanks Google!

Scientists Create Knee-Mounted Generator

Researchers at Simon Fraser University and two American universities have developed a knee-mounted generator that is capable of producing enough energy to power multiple cellphones. While human generated power is nothing new, you just have to take a stroll threw any department or hardware store to see a number of crank driven flashlights or radios. The difference with this knee-mounted device is that the electricity is generated from the energy put into slowing down the knee joint which makes the effort required substantially less. Good luck getting the thing through security at the airport though! CBC story here.

Ontario pouring millions into green energy promotion

The government of Ontario is following up it's ban on incandescent lights earlier this year with the announcement of a $610 million fund to develop a green technology industry aiming the money squarely at car makers and solar panel manufacturers. The move is in an attempt to eliminate green house gas emissions, produce badly needed energy output, and attract business to the Province which has seen manufacturing job losses of late, particularly in the auto industry. Kudos though, every effort to promote a greener society should be applauded. CNet story here.