Solar energy is great while the sun is shining. But not so useful once night falls. Most people think batteries are the answer, but Stanford University researchers have been working on another option. TEG's (Thermo-electric generator) are energy conversion devices. Basically, by using the temperature differential between one side of the panel and the air, more electricity can be generated ( both during the day and at night). Even better TEG's are reliable, safe, affordable and available right now.https://twitter.com/i/status/1543377040996548614
Concentrated solar power (CSP) traditionally uses large arrays of mirrors to direct sunlight onto a tall central receiver tower, which then creates heat that is stored in various liquids for use when the sun is not shining to generate electricity. CSP offers storage that traditional solar (PV) systems do not, however they have been historically big and expensive. An Australian company has developed a smaller, cheaper CSP and PV combination, with a 70% efficiency rate (on par with pumped hydro). The pilot project is currently operating in Carwarp, Victoria, Australia. https://reneweconomy.com.au/the-australian-solar-tech-that-may-have-found-a-low-cost-solution-to-deep-storage/
Industrial processes typically produce a lot of heat. This heat can be captured and re-used to reduce overall energy consumption with readily available technology such as heat pumps. However, industrial heat has not typically played a part in green hydrogen production. A new process to be trialled at BlueScope's Port Kembla Steelworks will seek to prove a new tubular solid oxide electrolysis (SOE) technology from CSIRO can reduce electricity demand by 30% compared to conventional green hydrogen production processes. https://www.csiro.au/en/news/All/News/2023/August/Hadean
IdeaSpies
Max Berghouse
Gillian Corban
Madeline Cunningham