Global solar power surged in 2011 – 73% growth

2011 was a great year for solar power with an increase of 73.3% in generating power – the fastest growth since reporting began. Germany and Italy led that charge by installing 57.1% of the new power. Worldwide there is now 63.4 gigwatts (GW) of solar power – of which 29.3 GW were brought online in 2011. …

Farmers markets continue strong growth – 10% this year, 151% this decade

In the past few years, the USDA has started paying more attention to farmers markets. They now conduct a yearly survey asking all market managers in the country to stand up and be counted:   It’s safe to say that farmers markets are booming. They have more than doubled in the past decade (151% growth), …

Gasoline use drops to 2001 levels – recent data shows

The following chart shows U.S. petroleum and gasoline usage for the same three-month period (Dec-Feb) going back to 1992. Note that petroleum usage is back to 1995 levels, and gasoline usage is back to 2001. Chart via Global Economic Analysis – (thx to Steven Witt for the tip)   This graph highlights a continuing U.S. trend …