How India is Making the Switch from Coal to Solar Utility

Making the switch from #coal-generated utility to #solar and #renewable energies is a shift that countries all over the world have been pursuing. #India, in particular, is showing a lot of promise in this regard. As the second-most populated country in the world, as well as the third-largest region to emit the most greenhouse gases, India is in a unique and critical position when it comes to committing to #solar energy. Law and policy makers in India have been well aware of the global climate crisis. Through an increase in clean and solar #energy policies, as well as a decrease in the costs of solar panels in the region, India is implementing changes in the solar energy field that are causing the rest of the world to take notice. 

Reduced Coal Generation and Spending in India 

For the third year in a row, solar and renewable energy investments in India have outnumbered the amount of coal-based fuel investments. Additionally, spending on solar energy in the region surpassed coal generation for the first time in 2018. Although coal-generated utility continues to grow in the region, it is not growing nearly as quickly as it once was. The International Energy Agency (IEA) predicts that coal-utility may decline from around 74 percent of the world’s total electricity that it is today, to about 57 percent by 2040. When more aggressive measures are taken into consideration, the IEA predicts that this reliance on coal utility could be as low as 7 percent by 2040. With more solar panels and solar farms popping up across the country every year, this ambitious prediction may one day become a reality. 

Sameer Kwatra, climate change and energy policy analyst for the Natural Resources Defense Council mentioned that India’s coal generation dropped from around 20 gigawatts of additional capacity per year to around less than 10 percent in just three years. In light of this statistic, Kwatra mentioned that it is now clear that solar and renewable energy utilities just make more sense.  

Solar and Renewable Energy Commitments 

In addition to the solar policies and renewable energy incentives put in place by lawmakers in India, various projects across the region prove that the country and its people are serious about helping the planet. One of the greatest challenges that India will face is upholding this commitment while juggling being one of the number one coal importers in the world. Part of the demand for so much electricity in India is due to the hot weather that makes pumping one’s air conditioning a much higher and immediate priority than attempting to install solar panels.  

However, India is up for the challenge. In 2015, India pledged to install 175 gigawatts of renewable and solar energy capacity in the country by 2022. This particular goal is part of the region’s commitment to the Paris Agreement. The Paris Agreement is an agreement that unifies various countries around the world willing to invest in long-term solar energy and renewable energy goals that will help positively impact global temperature levels. The agreement also defines certain provisions financially and logistically that help countries make the right decisions about solar utility in ways that are cost-effective and efficient. 

The Future of Solar in India 

Although the switch to solar energy may seem daunting, if a country as large and populous as India can make positive changes in solar panel affordability and construction, so can other countries. The time for negotiating whether or not implanting solar energy is a good idea has long since been over. Countries and regions that are willing to look to solar energy as the solution and take affirmative action to implement solar utilities will come out on top.  

Many of the positive changes that have occurred in the solar energy realm in India have been due, in part, by initiatives taken by the current prime minister Narendra Modi. The solar energy policies he has set in place have ultimately changed India’s focus and boosted interest in clean and solar energy generation. It is possible that any continued or future progress that will be made in the region in terms of solar and renewable energies may depend on the results of the next general election. 

Resources: 

https://insideclimatenews.org/news/20052019/india-solar-investment-coal-modi-election-renewable-energy-future 

A Small Solar Rover Provides Off-Grid Power in Seattle

Former real estate agent #Jennifer Brandon has created a portable source of #solar power – a Northwest #Solar Rover. Brandon is a #solar–#energy installer and designer worth talking about, as she has the ability to help power events in the #PNW using a solar-powered, off-grid generator built by hand.  

Solar Rover – Bringing Power to Parties & Events in the PNW 

Brandon’s Northwest Solar Rover is able to provide power to all sorts of activities and events, including parties, concerts, athletic events, festivals and weddings. She is able to power cell phones, Leaf cars and so on. With the ability to tow the solar rover to any location, all she has to do is plug in to take advantage of easy, clean energy.  

Brandon has an impressive background. She relocated to the #Pacific Northwest from the Southeast, where she was selling old homes. She wanted to have a career that would help the planet rather than impact it in a negative way. This is an admirable mindset and one more of us need to have! After noticing solar power on homes in her area, she began doing research when she came across Solar Energy International, a school that educated her on the design and installation of solar energy. Her first relevant job popped up back in 2008.  

Since then, Brandon has provided power at the Climate Solution rally – specifically to Gov. Jay Inslee’s stage. This was a memorable event because Inslee signed numerous climate-change bills, in a victory for Washington State. Supplying the solar energy was something that felt good for Brandon.  

Being able to provide clean power via solar energy in various outdoor settings is something Brandon appreciates about her job. The ability to educate about solar energy is a bonus.  

When asked what surprises people about what she does, Brandon discussed how there tends to be a sense of amazement over the concept of having a solar-powered rover in Seattle, where the sun is somewhat lacking. If you know anything about Seattle, you know it is known for getting a lot of rain. But the solar rover is able to work even in rain and cloudy weather. According to Brandon, Seattle is a great place for solar power due to the long summer days.  

Mini Solar Panels – What You Should Know 

The discussion of a solar rover might raise questions about smaller-scale solar panels. Mini solar panels are a great source of power when it comes to portable appliances and small devices. A solar panel is made up of photovoltaic cells, and these cells are made using semiconductor materials or silicon. Mini solar panels, unlike normal ones on rooftops that measure roughly 65 by 39 in, might range in size from just over half an inch by 2.5 in to just under 9 in by 5 in. Of course, there are various sizes which can be made, and this is something that is very convenient, especially when discussing portability.  

How the Panels Work 

A small solar panel’s photovoltaic cells will receive energy that they then absorb when exposed to sunlight. The energy which is absorbed is transferred to the semiconductor, and this helps to deliver current and voltage. These small solar panels are convenient when limited space is an issue. Mini solar panels can be used to power items like flashlights, calculators, radios and so on. As mentioned previously, Brandon has demonstrated the ability to power cell phones.  

Taking advantage of clean energy is something which is tremendously important to the health of our planet. Not only can we lessen our carbon footprint, but we can save money in electric costs. It is worthwhile to follow solar news to stay on top of new developments in the world of clean energy. Have you ever seen a mini solar panel, or some sort of portable clean energy system? What changes can you make in your day to day life to improve the health of our environment? It could be something as small as not using plastic bottles or straws when possible. Or you could end up having solar panels installed on your rooftop. There are so many options, and they are worth thinking outside the box for – just ask Jennifer Brandon – she certainly has demonstrated creative thinking and innovation in her work.  

Sources:  

https://www.seattletimes.com/explore/careers/her-small-but-mighty-solar-rover-powers-events-around-seattle/ 

https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/small-biz/productline/power-generation/mini-solar-panel-ideal-power-source-for-small-devices/portable-appliances/articleshow/69412749.cms 

Photo Source:  

https://static.seattletimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/web-solar-rover5.25_DSC_0024-768×512.jpg 

Offshore Solar Making Waves Worldwide

The functionality and use of #offshore solar inventions have made their way into #solar #energy conversations in recent years in a big way. Offshore solar is seen by many as a solution to the ever-present problem of the limited space we have to construct #solar panels. Rooftop solar panels and community solar gardens are not ideal for all settings in the United States. Despite progress in this area and leaders in the field that are working to integrate solar panels more seamlessly with everyday construction, more still needs to be done in order for us to continue down the path towards a renewable future. 

This is why nearly every country in the world is currently cultivating offshore solar farms, or is, at the very least, discussing the benefits that may come from the construction of such offshore solar innovations. Offshore solar consists of #floating solar panels on top of large bodies of water or offshore wind turbines. These two primary renewable energy mechanisms are able to perform just as solar panels and wind turbines on land do – except they utilize bodies of water to take up space, rather than the limited land space that our earth has. 

Many are hopeful that offshore solar will be the solution to many of the drawbacks and downsides inherent in solar panels. It is possible that more people may even be more likely to invest in solar power plants and farms, if it means that the construction of such renewable energy sites does not interfere with the look and feel of their cities, with solar panels being plastered on every rooftop, for example. With offshore solar, individual rooftop panels and other space-taking renewable energy farms will not be as necessary. Although offshore solar projects cost more to construct, they are twice as efficient thanks to the cooling effects of the water, which extends the life of the panels and helps reduce thermal losses. 

International Offshore Solar Leaders 

There are two countries that have consistently been at the forefront of the offshore solar race. Both Singapore and Japan are making strides in the offshore solar industry, proving that offshore solar is not just effective, but a potential space-saving solution that will allow solar panels to be built in mass. 

Singapore Offshore Solar 

Because the country is particularly land-scarce, Singapore has had an advantage and opportunity to break-in to the offshore solar industry from the start. In addition to the abundance of sunlight year-round and plenty of water surrounding the country, it is no surprise that the offshore solar industry in Singapore is taking off. 

The biggest project currently underway in Singapore is a floating solar farm being led by a renewable energy provider known as Sunseap Group. The #offshore solar farm will generate 6,388MW-hours of renewable energy per year and ultimately reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2,600 tons every year. The Sunseap Group is actively looking for other locations in the region to build more floating solar farms, such as in reservoirs and other areas along the coast. 

Japan Offshore Solar 

If Singapore has a problem when it comes to available land to build solar panels, Japan has even more of a crisis to manage in this right. However, just like Singapore, Japan also has plenty of surrounding water available to construct offshore solar panels and floating solar farms — and Japan has long since taken advantage of its surroundings. The country was the first to successfully construct a floating solar panel and its reservoirs now hold 73 of the world’s 100 largest floating solar farms. 

The Future of Offshore Solar 

From 2014 to 2018, the worldwide output of floating solar panels increased 100-fold. While there has been notable enthusiasm surrounding floating solar panels and other offshore solar systems, some have questioned whether or not the idea will really be as beneficial as it is anticipated to be. Critics of offshore solar have mentioned concerns about weather in particular regions, especially in Japan, and how typhoons and other extremes will impact floating solar panels. There has also been concern over ecosystem changes or interruption due to the solar panels blocking out sunlight. These potential impacts, however, can only be speculated for the time being. We can at least take comfort in knowing that the problems involving having enough space for solar panels to be placed may finally be solved. 

 

Resources: 

https://oilprice.com/Alternative-Energy/Solar-Energy/Who-Is-Winning-The-Offshore-Solar-Race.html 

https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/sun-seeker-at-sea 

https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2019/03/japan-is-the-world-leader-in-floating-solar-power/ 

Bill Would Fast-track Investment in Solar Throughout Maine

In New England, Maine has not ranked very highly for the last five years in terms of #solar jobs per capita and solar generation. As a matter of fact, the state has ranked last. But this is about to change, because a new bipartisan bill is striving to fast-track the creation of more than 400 megawatts of solar power for towns, businesses, and residents across Maine.  

According to the bill’s sponsor, #Dana Dow (R-Lincoln), Senate Minority Leader Senator, the economy will benefit as a result of Maine embracing solar power. Dow discussed how the power will be placed where it needs to be thanks to distributed generation, and this will lessen costs on the electric grid. Bringing solar benefits to those in Maine is important, especially where there are families with limited incomes.  

#LD 1711: Rebooting Solar Policies 

LD 1711 would bring an all-inclusive reboot to the solar policies in Maine, while serving to get rid of barriers that are preventing people in Maine from accessing solar #energy that they can afford. There have been other bills in the past but none of them became the law, although they were supported by the Legislature.  

#Clean Energy Director at the Natural Resources Council of Maine, #Dylan Voorhees, commented on how the time is now for people to try to increase solar power access irrespective of someone’s income or location. Doing this is going to yield positive results, for example, curbing carbon pollution, lowering energy costs and bringing good jobs to people throughout the state.  

How will access to clean energy be expanded for more consumers? The solar bill is able to accomplish this using different approaches. Some households (low and moderate income) would be able to utilize community solar farms. This would enable them to take advantage of solar energy even if they can’t have rooftop panels on their own homes. Speaking of solar farms, their development would be enabled by the bill. The expectation is more than 45,000 homes would benefit.  

Harnessing Solar Through Maine 

Solar is being harnessed through Maine in an effort to lessen energy costs for taxpayers and help to get away from energy sources that are carbon-polluting. As per the Solar Energy Industries Association, costs for solar have decreased over the last five years by 47 percent. Making the switch to solar has saved towns thousands of dollars. 

Electricity costs for all could be lowered by expanding distributed solar generation. It could change the regional electric grid by bringing in more renewable energy generation.  

Julie Rosenbach, Sustainability Director for the City of South Portland, commented on how many municipalities throughout the state want to adopt solar energy. As per Rosenbach, the solar bill is supported because it will offer a strong path for projects and perks such as clean air, a decrease in energy costs, and greenhouse gas reductions.  

Revolutionizing Maine’s electricity strategies can help to bring the advantages of distributed solar technology to light, and LD 1711 allows for a reduction in barriers, specifically for consumers and businesses to invest in their own power.  

A premium on predictability and competitive markets is another result, and would hopefully push for an investment in solar while creating jobs throughout Maine. 

Maine, unfortunately, sees high rates of asthma and Lyme disease. Hopefully, these illnesses would be reduced with an increase in clean energy and fewer greenhouse gases, as per Physicians for Social Responsibility, Maine Chapter’s Executive Director, Karen D’Andrea.  

It’s taken five years of collaboration among renewable energy businesses, municipalities, conservation groups, local businesses and more to get to this solar bill.  

Carissa Maurin, Environment Maine State Director, believes Maine has enormous potential to capture renewable energy. Barriers to solar energy will only hold back progress, which does not make sense.  

Thanks to the new solar bill, businesses, individuals, and communities in Maine will have the opportunity to go solar. It is important to protect the environment, consumers and public health. Maine could certainly have a thriving future in solar energy, and this is just one way to get there.  

Continue to read up on solar news, because there are many opportunities coming to light!  

Sources: 

https://www.nrcm.org/maine-environmental-news/bipartisan-bill-accelerate-investment-maine-solar-energy/ 

https://www.wabi.tv/content/news/Senate-Republican-Leader-presents-bill-to-bring-more-solar-energy-investment-to-Maine-510038751.html 

Solar Farms in the Sahara: Problems and Possibilities

In order to be effective, #solar panels require two things – adequate space and direct access to plenty of sunlight. Researchers in the #solar #energy field have been trying to come up with ways to maximize the space used for solar panels, such as with rooftop installations and community solar gardens. To capture the most sunlight, #solar farms in the United States are built in regions that are particularly sunny, such as in California and Hawaii.  

Both solar energy experts and novices have proposed that building a giant #solar farm in the #Sahara Desert is an option that should be explored, especially in light of the successes of solar farms in particular regions across the United States. Research has even revealed that if we were to cover just over one percent of the #Sahara Desert with solar panels, enough energy could be generated to meet the power needs of the entire world. Although on the surface a global solar farm in the Sahara may sound like a great idea, there are several inherent problems that will need to be addressed if this plan is to move forward in any sort of realistic capacity. 

Unintended Climate Change  

The first issue, believe it or not, is likely climate change in the Sahara Desert. While we often think of solar panels as helping to stop climate change, with enough solar panels working in tandem in the right spot, the climate in that region can shift. This is especially true for the Sahara Desert. With a series of solar panels spread out across the desert, these panels would provide shade to the ground below. Over time, this will cause vegetation in the area to thrive where it could not before. With the presence of more greenery in the desert, as well as the reflection of heat and light from the solar panels themselves back into the air, precipitation in the region would increase. Although increased vegetation and precipitation may be helpful for the Sahara Desert in some aspects, it is impossible to tell if an extreme change in the climate will occur and if it will ultimately impact the solar energy generation in that area. 

Transporting Captured Energy 

The second major issue involves transporting energy that would be captured by the solar panels. The energy generated by a solar farm in the Sahara Desert will be useless if we have no sure way to get that energy to citizens around the world. Some researchers have proposed attempting to get the solar energy to Europe or local, smaller African villages first, if a solar farm in the Sahara were to be built. However, the electrical grids currently in place in northern Africa are not reliable. Not to mention, transporting energy over long distances can lead to power losses of up to 10 percent. Constructing a reliable transportation system that is ultimately cost-effective will be no easy task, especially with a solar farm built in a location as remote and destitute as the Sahara Desert. 

Financial Issues 

The third and final major issue with building a world-saving solar farm in the Sahara Desert is its overall cost. Who will ultimately pay for the solar panels themselves, the labor and cost of installation, the necessary transportation systems required to ship that solar energy worldwide, the losses accumulated financially from transporting the solar energy, as well as the employees to keep a brand-new solar farm running smoothly? Strictly looking at the situation financially raises a multitude of questions and concerns. With how many countries are likely to be involved in the construction of a solar farm in the Sahara Desert, global cooperation and financing will likely be required on multiple levels. 

Starting Small 

In order to achieve any kind of global solar power generation, we must start small. Solar energy researchers have suggested beginning this endeavor locally, by transporting solar energy generated in the Sahara to villages in that region. Before we can discuss the logistics of worldwide solar power that is generated solely by a single, hypothetical solar farm in the middle of the desert, we need to work out the issues present in the solar energy generation itself in a desert setting. Although the possibility of global solar energy generation is exciting and even necessary, we must move forward in ways that are logical and cost-effective. Until the kinks can be ironed out of the plans for a solar farm in the Sahara Desert, the full manifestation of a global solar farm is still far in the future.  

Resources: 

https://bigthink.com/technology-innovation/sahara-solar-farm 

https://insh.world/tech/what-if-we-covered-the-entire-sahara-desert-with-solar-panels/ 

Solar Bill Approved to Help Customers Save on Power Bills

Lawmakers in South Carolina have approved a bill that will ensure the rooftop solar industry does not collapse. It will also protect customers who want to see cost savings through the installation of #solar panels on their rooftops. 

It took negotiation over a two–year period between clean #energy supporters and utilities to get to this bill. Once Governor #Henry McMaster signs the bill, it will become the law. Apparently, McMaster has, in fact, agreed to sign the bill according to his spokesman Brian Symmes. The bill was voted for earlier this month and it was approved by the House shortly after.  

Helping Rooftop Solar 

Deputy Director of the Conservation Voters of #South Carolina, #Rebecca Haynes, discussed having deliberated on innovative legislation for clean energy, and the belief is that this will ultimately be incredibly helpful for rooftop solar.  

Caps and solar-leasing program limitations have been eliminated as a result of this action. Now, those interested in having rooftop solar installed will be able to get better pricing from power companies when it comes to the energy produced. In two years, the rate structure is going to be revisited by the state Public Service Commission.  

Because of this bill, rooftop solar companies are able to keep offering arrangements in terms of leases which make it cost-effective for locals to install these panels. Without the bill, the solar panels would be quite expensive to buy. Additionally, homeowners can avoid putting money down for solar panels, as per national rooftop solar company Sunrun.  

Solar Companies: Coming to the Palmetto State 

Prior to a 2014 law being lifted, the solar industry in South Carolina practically did not exist. The aforementioned law made South Carolina one of the least welcoming spots to install solar in America. Now, solar companies are moving to the state.  

It’s been a question for years for utilities whether those utilizing #solar power would cost them as well as non-solar consumers. The belief was that non-solar consumers could end up subsidizing solar consumers. Last year, utilities led by Duke Energy slayed legislation that would have lifted limits on solar development.  

In accordance with many individuals, such as #Sen. Tom Davis, #R-Beaufort, solar power is great for customers and provides them with the choice to produce some of their own energy. Davis believes people are now seeing the need for clean energy, and it is an important piece of Legislation.  

During the day, thanks to solar panels, homeowners are able to lessen the need for power company energy. And if they produce excess energy, it is sent for utilization on the energy grid.  

Because of the current law, those with solar panels receive a credit or payment for producing solar energy in a process known as net-metering.  

The recently approved solar bill maintains rooftop solar costs so they are the same for customers who decide to go solar by June of 2021, after which point the PSC would determine the amount homeowners would be compensated by utilities for their energy. Those who install solar from now until June of 2021 could see good rates through 2029.  

The legislation, aside from lifting rooftop solar caps, settles a quarrel between Duke Energy and mass solar farm developers regarding the length of energy contracts. 

The companies which supply energy to utilities through the development of solar farms claim that they require 10–year contract minimums with power companies to get loans to build the farms. Duke Energy, though, was not willing to offer 10–year contracts, so it became problematic for developers to obtain financing. Thanks to the bill, some solar developers are guaranteed 10–year contracts.  

Solar energy is important, not just because it can save money, of course, but because it is environmentally-friendly. It does not contribute to global warming like natural gas plants and coal do, and it does not pollute the air or create waste.  

Thanks to clean energy, we can lessen our dependence on damaging power plants. South Carolina is certainly making positive moves. How is clean energy impacting life where you live? Keep reading solar news – it sure is fascinating to follow!  

Sources: 

https://www.thestate.com/news/politics-government/article230110434.html 

https://www.greenvilleonline.com/story/news/2019/05/09/sc-solar-energy-legislation-allowing-rooftop-panels-wins-senate-ok/1150514001/ 

3 Reasons Why a Solar Revolution is Imminent

2019 has already proven to be a big year for the #solar industry. As we approach the peak of the summer season in the United States, the buzz surrounding #solar energy is increasing more and more. States, communities, organizations, and individual leaders everywhere in our nation are rising up to create solar and sustainable futures for generations to come. 

One individual who has had his hand in the solar #energy sector and has been striving to make a difference for years is Hayes Barnard. As the former Chief Revenue Officer for SolarCity and creator of his own solar mortgage company, Loanpal, Barnard knows a thing or two when it comes to solar and renewable energy entrepreneurship and innovation. Barnard recently opened up to Inverse online about the three primary trends currently driving the solar energy sector forward, as well as how the transition to a sustainable future can be made possible. 

Reduced Costs of Solar Installations 

Thanks to over a decade of experience in the solar industry, Barnard points to three key solar trends that point towards an impending green energy revolution. The first major sign is the consistent price reduction in solar panels and other renewable technologies. Back in February of 2010, residential #solar installation costs were nearly $6.65 per watt, according to data from the Solar Foundation. By 2018, this price dropped to $2.89 per watt for some regions, and even as low as $1.75 per watt in some instances.  

Barnard’s company Loanpal aims to help those making the transition to solar make sense of their cost savings. Loanpal focuses primarily on the financing of solar energy for residential consumers. According to Barnard, they provide their solar customers with a transparent estimate of how much they will invest in solar technology initially, as well as their predicted savings over the course of a year. Now, nearly 80 percent of the top 50 solar energy providers in the United States work with and enlist the services provided by Loanpal. 

Mandating Solar and Renewable Technologies 

Another major sign corroborating the arrival of the #solar revolution is the recent mandates passed in California, Hawaii, and other states. By 2045, California and Hawaii are aiming to rely solely on renewable, solar, and clean energy sources. Across the nation, nearly every state has set some sort of renewable or solar energy goal for the coming decades. The impending possibility that little may be left of Earth for coming generations, as well as the example set by leading states in the solar realm, has prompted nation and statewide action. 

California has undoubtedly been the leading state when it comes to putting strict solar and renewable energy mandates into place. In fact, this past December, the state of California announced that solar panels will be a requirement as part of construction build for any new homes built after 2020. 

Bernard believes that other states will soon follow California’s example. Mandating solar panels as part of new builds is one trend that he is optimistic other states are most likely to adopt. According to recent estimates, requiring solar panels on all newly built homes will add nearly $10,000 to the initial cost of the home build, and the energy savings over the course of 3 decades will total nearly $19,000.  

Increasing Advantages for Existing Solar Customers 

Bernard noted that the last promising trend in the solar industry pointing towards a greener future is the initiatives being taken to help existing customers save even more over the course of time. Multiple solar energy agencies that oversee residential consumer accounts are always looking to help educate and assist customers, according to Barnard. Not only are solar agencies helping their customers understand their cost-savings, they are also helping them to increase the efficiency of their solar panels as time goes on.  

A Greener Future Ahead 

While it cannot be said with absolute certainty when a worldwide trade to renewable resources from non-renewable resources will take place once and for all, experts like Barnard are optimistic. Even the International Renewable Energy Agency has weighed in recently claiming that with the plans currently in place worldwide, it is possible that 86 percent of the world could run entirely on renewable energy by 2050.  

Resources: 

https://www.inverse.com/article/55481-the-3-huge-trends-driving-the-imminent-solar-energy-revolution 

https://www.loanpal.com/company.html 

Small Solar Cells Could Soon Power Your Smartwatch

The world just seems to keep finding more and more ways to innovate. From smartwatches to small #solar cells, things are changing fast and many different sources are being used to power the planet, to include #solar and wind. Who would have thought there would be a connection between solar cells and smartwatches? Yes, these things might end up going hand–in–hand – well, the smartwatch will stay on your wrist, but it could be powered by small solar cells at some point in the near future!  

This concept is mind-blowing, but let’s break it down. Solar #energy can be converted into electricity by means of the utilization of solar photovoltaic technology. What is photovoltaic? In a nutshell, it’s just a way of converting light from the sun directly into electricity.  

Photovoltaics: The 411  

Photovoltaics can be described as a modular technology, at least according to the #International Energy Agency (IEA). It is able to be rolled out in small quantities. Here’s what this means – systems can be small or they can be big. As a result, you might have a system utilized on a calculator, for instance.   

Photovoltaic technology does have an important role in terms of the energy mix of our planet. In accordance with the International Energy Agency, accumulative solar photovoltaic capacity (back in 2017) hit just under 400 gigawatts. This led to the production of over 460 terawatt hours. What does this mean? Well, it accounted for approximately 2 percent of our planet’s power output. 

3G Solar Photovoltaics: Making Big Moves via Small Parts 

#3GSolar Photovoltaics is a business in Jerusalem that has a goal of making photovoltaic technology a fundamental part of our everyday lives. The company develops dye solar cells and these solar cells, amazingly, have the ability to power electronics. The solar cells do this through the utilization of LED lights and indoor fluorescent lights.  

The concept comes down to the fact that small scale solar cells can be set into electronic devices that we use on a day to day basis.  

3GSolar’s technology is not limited to applications which are theoretical in nature, however, a relationship with global brands has not been announced at this point in time. But, certain businesses, such as Belgian’s e-peas, have used their photovoltaic cells for Bluetooth low energy sensors. And Israel Aerospace Industries-BEDEK hosted a competition in June of 2018 in which 3GSolar was named as one of its top three winners. Now, the company is starting a project to integrate cargo tracking systems with photovoltaic technology. 

According to 3GSolar’s website, the company is able to use mini PV cells to harness energy from the environment, and create innovative possibilities for wireless electronics. This gets rid of the need to have to change #batteries and functionality is improved, too, because more energy is available for devices.  

So Long, Batteries! 

3GSolar can help to remove the need for batteries. The CEO of 3GSolar, #Barry Breen, discussed how billions of batteries get thrown away every year. Thanks to 3GSolar, there will be less waste, because there will not be any batteries to throw away. This could replace conventional batteries altogether. 

Clearly, there is a great deal of innovative technology being brought to light. Just imagine if a device such as the smartwatch that you use on a day to day basis, were to be powered by small solar cells? The possibilities begin to seem endless. Other technology could also be powered by these cells. It’s very interesting to think about the direction in which the world is moving. 

How is solar changing things in your life? Are you noticing changes where you live, for instance, solar panels going up on rooftops? Think about ways that you can make a difference to better our planet. Whether you opt to use solar-powered technology, or even lessen the number of plastics you use on a day to day basis, there are so many ways to make a difference. Follow solar news so you can stay in the know regarding extraordinary changes being made across the globe. It’s interesting and beneficial for all, to say the very least!  

Sources: 

https://www.cnbc.com/2019/05/03/how-your-smart-watch-could-soon-be-powered-by-small-solar-cells.html 

https://revolution-green.com/smart-watch-soon-powered-small-solar-cells/ 

https://www.3gsolar.com/ 

 

Want More Efficient Solar Cells? Just Add Coffee!

If the #caffeine we consume in our #coffee and our tea every day makes us more efficient in our work, is it possible that caffeine might make #solar cells more efficient, too? This seemingly ridiculous question came to mind during a mid-day study break between two engineering students on the University of California, Los Angeles campus not too long ago. The graduate students, Rui Wang and Jingjing Xue, could have shrugged off the half-hearted suggestion given by Wang as an improbable idea. Instead, it dawned on them that, perhaps, there might just be something positive to be found in combining caffeine with solar cells. 

It turned out that Wang was right. Adding caffeine to solar cells actually does make them more efficient. With the help of their U.C.L.A. engineering graduate advisor, Yang Yang, Wang and Xue set out to put their theory into practice and energize a particular solar cell known as a #perovskite solar cell. 

What is a #Perovskite Solar Cell? 

Traditional solar cells are made of silicon and produce solar #energy through the use of two silicon layers that work in conjunction with one another. Solar cells can only reach an efficiency level that is so high, so engineers and solar panel developers are always trying to find ways to improve solar cell efficiency. 

Perovskite solar cells are a type of solar cell that is quickly becoming a top competitor to traditional solar cells. These particular solar cells work similarly to traditional cells, except they are infused with man-made materials known as perovskites. Perovskite solar cells have a crystallographic structure that makes them more efficient at converting sunlight into usable energy. Many researchers are looking at perovskite solar cells to replace traditional solar cells in the near future, due to their low production costs and high-efficiency rates.  

While #perovskite solar cells show a lot of promise, they are not as stable as researchers would like them to be. Perovskite solar cells are unreliable due to the connective elements that hold them in place. According to Yang Yang, the boundaries that border the perovskite solar cells, known as the grain boundaries, can easily become damaged from air, water, or moisture. Thus, the cell itself can erode in as little as one day. This is the very problem Wang and Xue hoped caffeine might help solve. 

Adding Caffeine to Perovskite Solar Cells 

Caffeine has a molecular structure consisting of two carbon-oxygen groups that carry lone electron pairs. When paired with a perovskite solar cell, the caffeine helps to lock the perovskite grain boundary in place and stabilizes the solar cell entirely. The caffeine essentially locks into the lead atoms in the perovskite solar cell and locks the boundary in place.  

To test their hypothesis, Yang and Xue ran several tests on solar cells infused with caffeine against a control group infused, of course, with decaf. Their results showed that the caffeine helped to increase the efficiency of the perovskite solar cells from 16 to 20 percent. Additionally, other tests run on hybrid solar cells containing different types of perovskite solar cells were able to reach efficiency levels of nearly 30 percent. 

Experts Weigh in on the Results 

Joseph Berry, a physicist at the National Renewable Energy Lab in Colorado, relayed his impressions of the study to Scientific America. He believes that the findings can help researchers continue to improve perovskite solar cells. According to Berry, the caffeine seems to allow the perovskite crystals to form without the same disorder and chaos seen when caffeine is not present.  

Jinsong Huang, a physicist from the University of North Carolina who was not involved in the work, also weighed in and stated that stability has been a major hurdle for researchers to overcome when working with perovskite solar cells. The idea of introducing caffeine into the perovskite solar cells might just allow these solar cells to soon enter into the commercial market. Additionally, these results from the caffeine perovskite solar cell experiment may just influence how scientists both research and design perovskite solar cells in the future.  

Undoubtedly, experts can agree that the innovative and clever use of our nation’s most popular psychoactive on perovskite solar cells has opened up our minds to solutions that may be brewing right in front of us every day. 

Resources: 

https://news.energysage.com/perovskite-solar-cells/ 

https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/caffeine-peps-up-solar-energy/ 

Solar Panels for Rooftops in Chapel Hill

Can new residential developments and buildings make improvements in terms of carbon reduction? Apparently so, even if it takes some work.  

Recently, #Chapel Hill, NC Town Council member Rachel Schaevitz mentioned the difficulty in providing flexibility to make sure developers can meet clean #energy goals regardless of the technology utilized by their buildings.  

Schaevitz discussed the desire to see new development really improve with regard to carbon reduction, even more so than from what the expectations were over a decade ago. It is clear that people will say things such as, “I can’t go #solar because of trees, so I don’t have to do anything.” The goal is to get away from this mentality.  

The town of Chapel Hill came up with an Energy Policy in 2009 that called for new buildings to be more energy efficient – 20 percent more, to be precise, than industry standards.  

According to Ralph Karpinos, Town Attorney, the policy is one which is voluntary, and when developers want the council to rezone land, they generally come with an energy plan. The main tool for implementing energy-efficiency standards is rezoning.  

#Rachel Schaevitz recognizes that when the policy was approved by the town, the situation was different. She highlighted that climate crisis is more real today.  

A Focus on Solar 

There is a definite focus on solar and clean energy, and it is one which is important. Efforts need to be intensified, and loopholes need to be closed, as per Schaevitz.  

So what is Chapel Hill going to do? The Environmental Stewardship Advisory Board requested to have any renovated or new buildings include solar systems on a minimum of 80 percent of qualified rooftops.  

What exactly is a qualified rooftop for solar? Pitched roofs or flat roofs facing the southwest or southeast and any parking lots. These could be covered in #solar panels.  

As per the town’s community resilience officer, John Richardson, the existing policy could be revised in a fairly short time frame (just a few months) in order to add the previously mentioned coverage requirement of 80 percent. He believes there would be enough flexibility to adjust to technology that is constantly evolving.  

Here’s what is meant by flexibility with evolving technology – in terms of solar panels, let’s say a developer is building in an area with a lot of trees. Maybe solar panels wouldn’t work because there isn’t enough sunlight coming in. But, a way around this would be to have heavier insulation installed and windows which are energy-efficient. So if there isn’t the opportunity to go solar, there is still the opportunity to get creative.  

Solar Perks 

Chapel Hill does not have the authority to require developers to go solar or to attempt to be more energy-efficient. But there is the option to add permit fee rebates and density bonuses to those who meet energy-efficiency goals.   

#Nancy Oates is a Council member who doesn’t want to pit Chapel Hill’s interest in energy-efficiency with the want for affordable housing. She mentioned that the council is just as concerned about affordable housing as they are with energy efficiency.   

In terms of solar power generation, #North Carolina came in last year as the second biggest generator in the nation. Number one was California. But in terms of solar arrays on a small-scale, North Carolina was only 17th in the country.  

North Carolina legalized solar leasing back in 2017, and this enables customers to pay to lease solar equipment with a flat monthly fee. For small businesses and homeowners wanting to install solar arrays, this fee has made it affordable.  

There are a lot of businesses and homes in Chapel Hill with solar panels already installed, such as Midtown Market and Chapel Hill Tire.  

It is recognized that more buildings which are town-owned should be retrofitted with solar arrays, according to Mayor Pam Hemminger. Other buildings with rooftop solar panels include Fire Station 1 and the Chapel Hill Public Library.  

Local governments are able to expand local production of solar energy thanks to assistance from the SolSmart program and tax incentives to property owners who opt to have solar arrays installed.  

Places across the country are making efforts to go solar and to reduce carbon emissions. These positive moves need to continue, and Chapel Hill certainly has the right idea with solar panels on rooftops. Follow solar news to stay in the know! You don’t want to miss any new developments in your area!  

Sources:  

https://www.newsobserver.com/news/local/article229623279.html 

https://www.tdworld.com/renewables/north-carolina-s-solar-power-output-grows-36