Solar Coming Out of the Shadows
Of the many variables inhibiting solar cell efficiency, shade is a big one. It’s not just the shadow of a tree over a panel that causes problems. In fact, just a leaf falling on one solar cell can cause failure in an entire string of cells. That is why you hear “peak sunlight” in reference to solar panel efficiency. Because it is only in full sunlight that panels are working at ideal capacity. To eliminate or reduce this problem would be a huge breakthrough for the solar industry. Solar researchers in Australia believe they have accomplished that very goal.
In answer to what they call the “cannibalizing” of solar power generation, these researchers from Australian National University have devised a system that alleviates the problem. Their design consists of curved mirror-like solar concentrators that focus light directly onto photovoltaic cells to produce electricity. The idea is rather simple. The troughs are much less affected by interference from shadows, falling leaves, birds, whatever. I can’t help but imagine a solar panel, complete with aluminum tray, sun-tanning on a beach.
What could this mean? Well, concentrated light and increased cell production means smaller panels and higher system efficiencies. And that means lower costs…conceivably much lower costs. That is why the Australian project is receiving international interest and funding. Research has been done with the aid of China’s Tianjin University and Chromasun, a California-based solar start-up company with the long-term goal of producing affordable, effective rooftop solar electric systems. The Federal Government has also doled out $1.8 million for the research as part of its Asia-Pacific Partnership.
The systems will be manufactured in California and China or India. The system could end up costing under $1,000, says Professor Andrew Blakers, the already-famed researcher at ANU. But that remains to be seen, although a prototype system has been in place at ANU for nearly four years and has been effective.
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Posted on October 7th in Solar News by Dan.
October 7th, 2008 at 10:14 am
If anyone can explain the recently passed solar power tax credit legislation, I would really appreciate it. I’m trying to understand what the minimum investment is to use the credit and what type of solar equipment/installation is required?
Thanks,
Will Johnston
http://www.growandmake.com
October 7th, 2008 at 1:44 pm
Hello Will,
Expect a post soon about the solar tax credits and the bailout bill. It is more of an overview than a detailed study of the credits. I can tell you that there is no apparent minimum system size for solar electric systems. The credit is for 30% of the overall system cost and, starting on Jan. 1, 2009, there will be no maximum incentive ($2,000 until then). Hot water systems must provide at least half the hot water needs for the home and credits remain capped at two grand.
As for equipment, solar hot water systems must be approved by the Solar Rating Certificate Corporation (SRCC) or a similar entity endorsed by your state. The bill does not seem to address equipment or installation requirements for solar electric systems. Expect your state’s requirements to set the bar.