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News features: General solar

Battery barrier to off-grid solar could fall

Friday, 06 November 2009 09:26 | Written by Christof Demont-Heinrich, SCD.Com Editor |

Researchers are working toward more efficient energy storage for solar systems.

Two big barriers stand in the way of everyday folks doing off-grid solar, meaning a completely independent solar system.

First, in order to qualify for what are often substantial rebates from utility companies, you have to install a grid-tied system. And the reality is that most people cannot afford to install a solar system without these utility rebates.

Second, the battery systems used for back-up on a off-grid solar system are expensive and inefficient.

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Idaho engineer rolls out a solar roadway

Tuesday, 06 October 2009 16:15 | Written by Christof Demont-Heinrich, SCD.Com Editor |

Artist Dan Walden's rendition of a Solar Roadway.

Just when you thought it was safe to say you understood what someone means when they say, “I’m driving on sun” – as in I'm driving an EV whose batteries have been charged with electricity generated by solar panels -- someone comes along and messes it all up.

Meet Scott Brusaw, an electrical engineer who’s managing to create quite a buzz with his futuristic Solar Roadway™ concept, or the idea for a road made of solar panels encased in extra-, extra-, extra-strong glass.

If Brusaw’s dreams become reality, you might be driving on sun power and literally be driving your car on the very thing that generated the sun power you’re driving on.

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Gasoline inefficiency statistic of the day

News features: General solar

Battery barrier to off-grid solar could fall

Idaho engineer rolls out a solar roadway