I’ve been interested in solar energy and applications for quite some time and even signed up for their newsletter. If you recall, a few months ago I wrote a post regarding SolFest which is a workshop, live music and awareness event sponsored by the institute. I’m definitely impressed with this organization and all the cool campaigns they partake in to increase awareness for the solar cause. Granted, they are a drop in the bucket in regards to all the great institutions out there raising awareness, but I like to think of them as a bottle of diet pills used to supplement all of the great information and applications out there.

Some of these toys are actually pretty cool and rather inexpensive compared to some of the alternatives out in the marketplace. I can’t think of a better way to teach children about alternative energy without cracking open a book or lecturing on the pros and cons of solar or wind power. The website is pretty cool and I would definitely recommend checking it out! Source: Sundance Solar 

SolFocus has recently announced that they have developed a new form of photovoltaic cell that will reduce overall costs while delivering more effective energy output levels. The array design features bowl-like mirrors that will focus energy directly onto a one-square-centimeter solar cell. By doing this, the cells will further concentrate the light nearly 500 times, thus improving the cells overall efficiency.

SolFocus expects that their first installation will be I place producing nearly 500 KW by the end of this summer. The company also suggests that power from their arrays will be as cheap as energy produced by more conventional means. This announcement could be just what this nation needs to hedge off dependence of foreign energy sources, try to think of it as drug rehab for the economy. Speaking of drug and alcohol rehab in regards to stemming dependence on foreign energy, SolFocus has announced their summer campaign may be drawing to a close, but there will be similar programs beginning this Autumn and continuing into the new year.

Source: TechnologyReview 

Researchers in the United Kingdom have begun a series of interesting solar paint experiments that may revolutionize how businesses (esp. warehouses) generate their power. Currently, scientists are developing a technique to paint solar cells onto the large steel sheets that cover buildings. With the development of this incredible new application, it might not be too long until we see additional applications within the home. Can you imagine an indoor passive solar design to harness energy. Imagine a refrigerator or countertop that could generate electricity. Who knows maybe someday we’ll see a solar cell system applied to your sink under the kitchen window. A series of solar powered Delta faucets might not be too far off thanks to the breakthroughs made by U.K. scientists. 

The paint is based on dye-sensitive solar cells that are designed to absorb light by speeding up electrons in the dye molecules which then jump across a layer of electrolyte ultimately transferring electricity into a collecting circuit. The process is still in development, and will likely be utilized at the production level in the steel mill instead of aftermarket as a “spread”.

Source: News Scientist Tech 

The implementation of a solar energy system can be a complicated task. Seeing as though this is still a relatively new concept, there is a shortage of experienced and trustworthy contractors. Imagine a contractor trying to sell you ball lock pins or something claiming it was an energy saving device. That is why I was interested to see that Wal-Mart has begun opening solar kiosks in some of their California Sam’s Club locations in a bid to simplify and streamline the solar implementation process. 

Whether or not “Sam’s Choice Solar” will be a reality, this is definitely a provocative step toward the future from a world leader in “an” industry. It will be interesting to see how far this concept will go and whether or not consumers will find implementation of a solar energy system easier than in the past.

Source: ecogeek 

In order to reduce nearly 2 tons of CO2 emissions annually, Fuel Miami LLC is implementing 600 solar powered bus shelters citywide. Granted, 2 tons of CO2 is just a drop in the bucket, but you’ve got to start somewhere. Claiming that the energy used to light bus shelters is often overlooked when trying to change the world, Fuel Miami LLC feels as though their move may influence others to begin similar projects. 

Unfortunately, there is speculation as to whether or not this is a viable plan due to not only graffiti and possible destruction of the stations but also theft of panels which would likely have a high “resale” value, though it would be strange walking into a pawn shop and seeing solar panels sitting next to snowmobile parts and jewelry, but you never know.

Source: ecogeek

Solarbuzz.com is a great resource for individuals and businesses that are interested in learning more about solar power, its applications and its future. Solar buzz also offers insight into groundbreaking technology as well as conference information from around the world. Conferences are held at a number of fine resorts and conference centers worldwide. Who knows, someday they may sponsor conferences at laughlin hotels or some other exotic hot-spot.

Being plugged in to the industry, Solarbuzz.com offers a number of great tools such as “Solar Buyers Guide” as well as customer tips and cost generators. There is also a lot of interesting and though provoking content, so take your time and explore the site. Solarbuzz.com is a must read for individuals looking to make the move to clean and sustainable solar power.

Source: Solarbuzz.com 

Earth Tech Products is a cool online store that offers a number of eco-friendly solar options for a wide array of uses. Recently, I was viewing their online selection and came across the Solarflat 1.8 Solar Car Battery Charger. I have to admit, the premise is definitely promising. I have had instances where I’ve gotten out of work and gone to start my car and got nothing. That can be a pretty frustrating experience, which is why I recommend AAA, but I digress.

The solar car battery charger is designed to function seamlessly in overcast conditions due to an amorphous thin solar film. Not only does the film maximize output, it also contains a special UV inhibitor that protects it from heat damage. The unit itself, is 14”x5”x0.6” and mounts via suction cup to your windshield, includes 10 ft. cables as well as battery clamps and a warranty package. This is one of many dynamic promotional products featuring some of the latest solar technology.

Source: EarthTechProducts 

The North American Solar Challenge begins this weekend and will run nearly 2,400 miles in 10 days from Dallas, TX to Calgary, AB. The competitors, 24 colleges, will compete in the event with their personally designed solar powered race cars. Victory in this race will definitely award notoriety to the young champion and their school, but will unlikely help with said champions blackhead removal.

The bi-annual race has been going on for well over 15 years and has seen major innovations over its tenure. The first champion (1990) sustained an average speed of 25 mph, while the last winner achieved an average of over 60 mph just two years ago.  The students from Michigan have won four races thus far and have their eyes on the prize again this year.

Source: ABCNews

Creating solar energy is about to become a whole lot less expensive. Researchers, working in inorganic chemistry, have begun utilizing a technique that creates a molecular reaction in water to free hydrogen ions. The free ions create hydrogen gas that in turn can be used in a fuel cell to generate electricity.

Solar output is limited due to the fact that the cells maximum effectiveness can only be harnessed during peek hours and “off peek” storage can be pricey. The aforementioned process will be able to produce energy in the form of Hydrogen gas that can be stored more effectively regardless of time of day. In fact, these scientists would probably say that is is easier than finding cheap life insurance rates. Using water as a catalyst to generate energy is far more affordable than other solutions to date.

Source: ABCNews