Today, solar power is one of the best alternative energy options and it is used in almost everything from heating and cooling a home to lighting, cooking, battery charging among other uses. Innovative solar energy applications use technology to tap power from the sun for a wide range of uses. The following are 10 innovative uses of solar energy technology.
Suspended Solar Power Plants in Space
Sunlight is less intense on the earth’s surface than on the geostationary orbit which explains why the US government plans to collect it from space and beam the energy to earth through microwave power beam. The energy will be converted to synthetic fuels or electricity which, unlike terrestrial solar power stations, will flow continuously no matter the location, weather or season.
Solar Powered LED Umbrella
These umbrellas have pre-installed solar powered LED lights. The cells charge during the day and light up at night.
Solar Powered USB Cell Phone Chargers
This USB cell phone charger is ideal for people who are always on the move and want their phones to remain charged all the time. They can charge a phone to almost full with only a few hours exposure to UV sunlight.
Solar Powered Fountains
Solar water fountains are a great way to beautify the backyard and the garden. What makes them unique is that they do not require electricity in order to run which means you do not have to worry about having a power outlet close or fearing your child or pet may be electrocuted.
Solar Powered Technology Used in Windows
A Japanese firm has come up with technology that enables solar energy to be tapped from all directions, not only from a flat surface. The windows are installed with a transparent photovoltaic that not only produces power but also reduces heat in a building.
Google Solar Power Power Project
Google is rolling out solar panels on the rooftops of Googleplex which will produce enough electricity for about 1000 homes in California which is equivalent to 30 per cent of Google’s peak electricity demand.
Solar Power iPad Charger
Solar power iPad Charger is a convenient way to keep your device fully charged when away from the electrical power outlet. Solar cells are embedded on the charger which takes about 2 hours of exposure to UV light to get enough power to keep your phone from losing battery power.
Solar Powered Carport Deck
The most wasted space in most areas is the parking lot but an innovative way has been discovered to make the parking space more profitable by installing solar carports which significantly reduces electrical cost.
Solar Powered Sedan
This is one of the most efficient solar power car with positive energy which means that it actually generates more energy than it consumes. It can travel up to 621 miles and reach a speed of 125 km/hr thanks to its lightweight carbon fibre and aerodynamic design. Though it does not resemble today’s sedan, it can comfortably accommodate 3 passengers and the driver which is a great achievement.
Bolivia’s Solar Power Project
This power plant has a capacity of 50mw and it supplies half the power needed in Cobija, the largest city in Pando province. The project is installed by British undergraduate students but funded by a local NGO.
If you are wanting to slash your bills by at least 50 percent, give Solar 360 a call. We’ll answer all of your questions and get you started down the road to solar power freedom.
Image courtesy of rakutan.com
