Alternative energy sources used in Katrina recovery

Solar Panels and Biodiesel Aid in Hurricane Recovery Efforts:

Solar power systems provide a big benefit after natural disasters, such as hurricanes: They provide a source of power when the power grid is down, and they don't require any fuel. With that in mind, DOE's National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and the Florida Solar Energy Center are providing solar electric charging stations to the town of Kiln, Mississippi, to help residents recover from Hurricane Katrina. The two organizations are providing two large 2-kilowatt charging stations that could recharge base radio stations or run a refrigerator. In addition, a smaller 600-watt system will allow people to recharge mobile phones, laptop computers, and hand-held radios. See the NREL press release...