With each passing week, solar questions pop up like bubbles from a steady well of enthusiasm and curiosity. They revolve around efficiency, capacity, cost. Here are three examples from this week’s solar wellspring.

Is solar efficiency strong enough to support current growth?

According to Atlan, the answer is no. In its first renewable resource initiative, Atlan plans to improve solar panel efficiency to 35 percent. Today highest efficiencies fall close to 20 percent, the goal is nearly to double it. How and when? Through a “SunTilt” system that follows the sun, for release later this year.

Link: Atlan Development To Increase Solar Panel Efficiency

Can solar energy power 90 percent of our homes?

Ausra thinks so. The company just published a peer-reviewed study that shows production from solar thermal power plants closely match the U.S.’s daily and annual energy needs. According to Ausra, they could soon power 90 percent of the country’s homes as we enter the decade of solar and affordable power.

Link: Solar company claims it can power a fleet of electric cars … and 90 percent of our homes

Is solar energy storage cost effective?

Not enough, says EnStorage, which claims their energy storage system is smaller and more efficient while costing less. Cost-effective energy storage will enable full capacity solar energy usage, even during off peak hours. State-of-the-art systems already exist, but EnStorage’s EEStor system claims higher power density at a lower cost, per kW of power and energy storage.

Link: EEStor and More Energy Storage

Do you want solar panels for your home? The process is more dependable than ever, especially with qualified solar installers to back your project. Get a free estimate today.

Posted on March 13th in Solar Information by Renee.