Tuesday, November 27, 2007

Google Ties Into eSolar With Energy Initiative

Internet search giant Google said Tuesday that it has launched a new, strategic initiative focused on developing renewable energy. As part of the effort, Google said that it is working with Pasadena-based eSolar, a maker of grid-scale, utility solar systems. eSolar is backed by Idealab, and counts Bill Gross as Chairman of the firm. Google said that its new initiative, RE C, will hire engineers and energy experts to conduct research and development into renewable energy, including solar and thermal technology efforts, and that investments and grants will be made through its Google.org arm to promote the initiative. Financial details of the collaboration with eSolar were not given. Google also said it is working with Makani Power, a northern California firm developing high-altitude wind energy extraction technology.