Opening New Paths Most Viable Practical New Solar Technology

Solar energy technology has come a long way since the bulky panels of the 1970s. Thanks to more awareness of the benefits of solar power and increased investment, new innovations are constantly being created. One exciting innovation is the creation of flexible solar panels. Photovoltaic cells are available that are so thin they can be mounted on paper or thin plastic. Because the cells can be mounted on lightweight surfaces, they create less roof stress for home solar panels. The flexible cells mean portable solar generators are much more practical. In fact, backpacks are available today with solar panels mounted on the exterior. Another new invention uses the space under roof solar panels to heat and cool a building. Currently, even the best solar panels are only able to capture about 15 percent of the sun's energy to convert to electricity. The recently developed system works by drawing unused solar heat from the panel structure into the building through a vent system. A heat exchanger and fan duo cool the air and direct it into the structure. The removed heat is used in a solar water heating system. In winter, the warmed air is pumped directly into the building.

Credit: clean-energy-technologies.blogspot.com