Wind turbines that float 1,000 above ground for months at a time take advantage of higher wind speeds than ground-based units, but they cost a lot more. Nevertheless, floating windmills could be deployed in circumstances where cost is not a primary limitation, such as remote locations characterized by high power prices or military installations. [Inhabitat]

With BP’s newly-acquired 20% stake in Russian state-controlled Rosneft comes increased political risk. The equity stake gives BP more Russian exposure than other oil majors, but the long-term impacts on the UK-based oil company are uncertain. “While current sanctions won’t harm BP’s ability to do business in Russia, analysts said they worry about the long-term prospects for the Rosneft investment against a background of worsening relations between the West and Moscow.” [Bloomberg]

Congress is up to its ears in energy hearings this week, as the US energy export issue is scrutinized amid growing tension with Russia. The House and Senate both held hearings yesterday and the House Foreign Affairs committee is convening hearings on the geopolitical energy situation between Russia and Europe. The committee will hear testimony today from Continental Resources CEO Harold Hamm – Romney’s former energy advisor – and Council on Foreign Relations fellow Michael Levi. [Fuel Fix]