Some sci-fi movies are so realistic, that you may sometimes
sit and wonder “what if?” Solar panels are one of those pieces of equipment
that maybe 120 years ago, people thought “what if?” After all, in a time before
modern pluming, let alone electricity, who would have thought that flat
“plastic-y” or glass panels could actually provide a source of electricity? In 1839,
a scientist by the surname of Becquerel came up with a photovoltaic theory,
though it may seem very simplistic by modern standards: sunlight may be
converted into electric current, or energy. In 1839, there were no silicon
wafers and the terms “monocrystalline” or “polycrystalline” would have left
anyone, including a scientist, scratching their head in confusion.
Fast-forward to 2016 and solar panels are becoming a
mainstream favorite, particularly amongst homeowners living in the southwest
US. Over the past twenty years, the cost of residential solar panels has
declined substantially, making them a cost-effective and secure long-term
investment. For those who frequently travel or live on the road, off-grid solar
panels are becoming the new “generator” of choice. Unlike the larger, bulkier
on-grid panels, off-grid panels are lightweight and can be permanently installed
with relatively little effort. Perhaps more importantly, unlike gas powered
generators, solar panels are nearly silent. Although many RV and boat owners
install off-grid panels on their own, Renogy advises that, at a minimum,
customers consult with an installation professional to avoid mistakes. With all
the recent advances and reduction in costs, the consumer is left to ask,
“what’s next?” in the solar revolution.
With photovoltaic, or solar technologies, the options are
nearly endless. Solar panels are becoming lighter with greater flexibility,
creating a greater range of everyday uses. If you’re been paying attention to
the latest solar news, then you’ve already heard about personal solar
aircrafts, solar powered coolers, solar powered vehicles, and solar powered
boats. Perhaps one of the most surprising and useful solar developments is the
potential for solar powered roadways. If you sit and think about it, the idea
of installing solar panels serves two purposes: (1), a flat and safe surface
for driving and (2) an electricity producing powerhouse. Although scientists
and engineers are still working out the design kinks, it seems that solar power
roadways will be coming to a highway near you.
Although dreamt of for many years, one Idaho startup company,
Solar Roadways, Inc. is said to be making great strides in developing solar
panel roads. The company is currently developing a transparent driving surface,
resistant to weight fracture and stress. Perhaps this is the most difficult
element of developing solar roads, as traditional solar panels are coated in
clear plastic or glass. In order for traditional panels to work at optimal
level, they need to be periodically cleared of excess dust and dirt. For the
project to be successful, the driving surface will likely need to be
self-cleaning or dirt resistant, and the underlying solar cells will need to be
protected from extreme elements and weight. This is a tall order for any
scientist, engineer, and manufacturing plant.
Utilizing various grants and charitable contributions, Solar
Roadways has been able to test and develop a safe protective coating for the
roads. The panels are also said to include low power heating elements to
prevent snow and ice from accumulating, creating a safer and more versatile
means of travel. Some of the first solar roadways are expected to be installed
near Route 66 in Missouri in late 2016.
Although we haven’t developed flying cars or floating
speedways, humans are one step closer to developing clean energy technology
that can positively affect an entire community. Solar is an incredibly
versatile piece of technology, with nearly endless possibilities. Here at
Renogy Solar, we pride ourselves on producing cost-effective, high quality
solar products for personal and commercial use. Although we aren’t going to
create a roadway anytime soon, we enjoy watching other highly motivated
companies making incredible advances.
