Solar energy from solar panels to solar skins

Electronics and communication engineering

Sun energy is the most abundant energy available on earth. Over the years with advances in technology solar energy has emerged as most useful renewable sources of energy. Solar energy has evolved from ground mounted solar panels to wearable solar panels and solar tracking mounts. But there are now several exciting new solar panel technologies either in the pipeline or already on the market. These promising technologies will revolutionize the way we think about not just solar, but energy production in general. Solar no longer requires large parcels of land or roof space, nor does it need to look boring. Silicon panels are becoming cheaper and more efficient day-by-day. According to experts, if photovoltaic panels are placed on reservoirs and other water bodies, they offer even greater efficiency as well as a plethora of other benefits. Innovation in solar technology continues to improve efficiency, size and cost, making it more pervasive throughout society. The trend is leaning toward incorporating solar into more buildings beyond panels placed upon the roof. Cool applications include: solar shingles, solar film, solar roadways, and solar windows. Other innovations being explored are: the solar orb, solar cars (commercially available), solar balloons, nanowires, and working with the infrared spectrum. As the manager of the Green Mountain Energy Sun Club, I’m excited about these advances in solar technology and the growing part this pollution-free resource will provide in our lives. A solar future is closer than you may think. Technology for producing electricity from the sun using solar cells, typically encased in panels.

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