« Mission Statement | Home | Happy Holidays! »
Solar Cells Break 40% Efficiency Barrier
By Mike | December 22, 2006
Article at the Department of Energy
Yes, this was posted on Slashdot a few weeks ago, but it is nonetheless exciting news. Traditional solar panels just capture white light straight up. The idea behind these new panels are the many layers sandwiched in the panel, each capturing a color in the spectrum. This technology, however, is not new. It has been around for decades, but scientists are constantly looking for ways to improve them.
One of the factors holding back solar panels is that they don’t produce enough electricity (and therefore save you enough money) to justify the costs of installing the solar panels and the equipment to regulate the electricity generated. As solar panel efficiency improves, however, they will become a more competitive source of electricity. No pollution, little maintenance, basically free electricity - what more could you ask for?
Admittedly, there are some troubles with solar power. Obviously, electricity can only be generated when there is sunlight. Also, power companies may like the fact that they could set up fields of these panels to soak up sunlight, but may not be too thrilled when private individuals start installing them on their roofs to produce their own electricity.
Any thoughts?
Topics: Ferrium |