IceLink

IceLink

 

We all know of schemes involving integration of national grids of many countries. But, have you ever heard of one connecting in the sea? IceLink Project, which is yet to be given the green signal, aims to cover more than 1,000 kilometres to provide renewable energy to UK. Almost 75% of alternative energy in Iceland comes from hydropower while the rest from geothermal. “Iceland enjoys the cheapest electricity prices in Europe thanks to abundant geothermal energy, wind and especially hydropower from glacial meltwater. The industry generates more than 12 gigawatt hours of electricity, about five times the demand from Iceland’s 325,000 population.” (Hebehappy)

England could exploit these potential, as experts estimate that Iceland could provide 5 terra-watt hours per year, at a cost 15% cheaper than UK’s offshore wind projects. The bigger implication of this project is the rising importance of under-sea cables as well as providing renewable power to rest of Europe. It is also expected to offer flexibility options to UK’s energy policy.

Buenos Aires Bus Rapid Transit Corridor

Buenos Aires Bus Rapid Transit Corridor

Argentina’s capital Buenos Aires is seen as a major economic center in the future, which will also serve as a balance to Brazil’s growing economic clout in the region. To aid in its development comes the Bus Rapid Transit Corridor, a first of its kind project in Argentina, built at an estimated cost of $ 25 million, though the budget was exceeded. According to Guillermo Dietrich, the city’s undersecretary for transport, travel time is down for buses by 50 percent, for minibuses (private buses that make fewer stops) by 45 percent, and for cars by 20 percent.

Some features of the buses involved in the system include spacious, well-lighted shelters that have seats and a Wi-Fi connection, easy boarding and information providing screens. A major accomplishment of this project was that it reduced traffic on the most important city of the street: 9 de Julio Avenue. Experts say that more than 200,000 citizens prefer the bus when their route is the avenue; it also has reduced CO₂ emissions by more than 5,000 tons per year. With continued benefits, this bus transport scheme can really help Buenos Aires to revamp its image.