Ecotoolbox

Spiegel Online reports here: The European Commission has approved tariffs on Chinese-made solar panels in response to complaints of price-dumping. However, analysts say the move will do little more than give European companies a short-lived boost, and that the levy will mainly just increase prices and decrease use of solar power.

BBC News reports here: The Solar Impulse plane, which holds records including the longest manned zero-fuel flight, begins a bid to cross the US, taking off from San Francisco.

BBC News reports here: A strain of bacteria is created that can produce a synthetic fuel almost identical to conventional diesel, a study suggests.

CNN: Solar-power super hero

BBC News reports here: A new type of battery has been developed which its creators say could revolutionise the way we power consumer electronics and vehicles.

Hawaii turns derelict fishing nets into electricity. CNN’s Kyung Lah explains.

Spiegel Online reports here: The ambitious Desertec plan to supply Europe with solar power from the deserts of North Africa and the Middle East seems to have stalled. It could now be facing even greater problems as competitors arise and local opposition mounts

Is change in the air when it comes to powering Japan? CNN’s Alex Zolbert looks at one unusual energy solution.

The Next List profiles inventor Saul Griffith who’s working on changing the economics of alternative energy.

Eco Solutions looks at how the Philippines is tapping into its geothermal potential.