Solar energy, the third-largest renewable energy source after hydropower and wind, has established itself as a clean, sustainable, and powerful alternative to fossil fuels.
FREMONT, CA: When most people hear the term "solar power," they immediately envision solar panels on rooftops or in a desert solar farm. And with good reason: until now, traditional utility and rooftop solar panels dominated the solar market. But there are now several exciting new solar panel technologies in the market. Some of these promising technologies will revolutionise the way people think of solar and generate energy.
Floating solar farms (‘floatovoltaics’)
Stay ahead of the industry with exclusive feature stories on the top companies, expert insights and the latest news delivered straight to your inbox. Subscribe today.
Silicon solar panels are becoming increasingly affordable and efficient daily. If photovoltaic panels are placed on reservoirs and other water bodies, they offer greater efficiency and many other benefits. "Floatovoltaics" are solar photovoltaic systems for floating on reservoirs, dams, and other water bodies. Floating solar farms can generate enormous amounts of electricity without valuable land or property. Floating photovoltaic panels' installation costs are less than land-based photovoltaic panels. Research also showed that the power generation of floating solar panels is up to 10% higher due to the cooling effect of water. Besides producing clean solar energy, floating solar farms can help manage water. They reduce water loss to evaporation by limiting air circulation and blocking sunlight from the water surface. Floating solar farms also prevent harmful algae production, reducing water treatment costs. In addition, underwater keeps solar panels clean and minimises energy waste.
BIPV solar technology
Building-integrated photovoltaics integrate photovoltaics into the architecture of the building through the use of roofs, canopies, curtain walls, facades, and skylight systems. Unlike conventional solar photovoltaic panels, BIPV can complement rather than detract from a building's design. By substituting BIPV for traditional building materials, people can save money on solar panel mounting systems. When used on the facades, atrium, terrace floor, and canopies of a building, BIPV technology provides the following benefits:
- Enhancement of energy efficiency
- Superior thermal and acoustic insulation
- Solar energy is a non-polluting and cost-free source of energy.
- Cost savings associated with operations and maintenance
- There is no carbon footprint.
As with conventional architectural glasses, photovoltaic PV glasses installed as building materials act as an energy-generating device while allowing natural light into homes and offices.
Solar skins
Solar skins are a novel photovoltaic (PV) technology that enables customised designs into solar panel systems. The solar skin technology is similar to that used on bus window advertisements. Solar thin-film skins maintain a high-efficiency level due to advancements in selective light filtration. Solar skins filter the sunlight that strikes them, allowing it to reach the solar cells beneath. As a result, it displays the customised image while also providing solar energy. Solar skin panels are also advantageous for businesses and government buildings. For example, they can be customised to display business logos, advertisements for businesses, or a country's flag.
See Also:Top 10 Wireless Technology Companies