Tech

Heat-driven photovoltaic device hits 40 percent efficiency

Enlarge (credit: Getty Images | Aurich Lawson) As installing renewable generating sources continues to set annual records, we’re reaching the point where storing the power they generate becomes essential. Proper storage can provide a way to cover temporary drops in production due to changing weather and can potentially offer a way to use power at […]

Tech

The economics of covering California’s water system with solar panels

Enlarge / Lots of California’s water delivery system is exposed to the air. (credit: NSF) A major factor driving the growth of solar power in the US has been the economics of large, utility-scale solar projects. The scale of plants ensures that their developers can buy components in bulk; use larger, more robust hardware; and […]