Energy Focus to develop LED infrared flare
Ohio-based Energy Focus was awarded a phase I small business innovative research deal from the Defense Department for the development of a solid-state light-emitting diode, or LED, infrared flare.
Officials say the development contract is part of an effort to replace the M-278 Flare that the U.S. Army uses with its Hydra Rocket system.
"The technical challenges presented by the Army are tremendous, but at the end we will have made breakthroughs that should unlock the next-generation of LED lighting," Laszlo Takacs, Energy Focus director of research and development, said in a statement.
"The operational benefits of the LED Infrared flare include higher ignition reliability, little or no visible light output, and no risk of fires started on the ground or at the parachute components."
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Power bill cut for 22m Thailand houses
BANGKOK - The Thailand cabinet has formally approved energy authorities' decision to either waive or cut electricity charges for 22 million households where people are working at home because of the coronavirus disease.
Energy Minister Sontirat Sontijirawong said after the cabinet meeting on Tuesday that the ministers acknowledged the step taken by from the Energy Regulatory Commission, the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, the Metropolitan Electricity Authority and the Provincial Electricity Authority.
The measure would be valid for three months, from March to May, and cover 22 million households. It would cost the state 23.68 billion baht in lost revenue, he said.