Technologies that will take solar energy to a new level

Summary

The video script discusses groundbreaking advancements in solar energy technology. It highlights the successful transmission of solar energy from space to Earth, the creation of the world's first solar-powered train, and innovative cleaning methods for solar panels. The script also covers high-efficiency perovskite PV cells, the potential of space solar projects, and the social and environmental benefits of community solar initiatives. Additionally, it explores novel solar energy applications, such as the transparent sphere 'Beta' for capturing solar and lunar light, and the Lightyear Zero, a solar-powered electric car.

Takeaways

• 🌟 The script discusses a revolution in solar energy with advancements such as space-based transmission and contactless cleaning methods.
• 🚄 The world's first train powered by solar panels has been created, showcasing the potential for solar energy in transportation.
• 🛠️ A new contactless cleaning technology for solar panels has been developed by MIT, which increases efficiency by removing dust without water.
• 🌞 Solar panels' efficiency can be reduced by 20-25% due to dirt, and a new method electrifies dust particles to repel them from the panels.
• 🏗️ Perovskite PV solar cells have achieved an impressive 31% efficiency, offering a cost-effective and flexible alternative to traditional silicon cells.
• 💡 Perovskite solar panels can be integrated into various surfaces, including wearable devices and curved building structures, maximizing energy capture.
• 🚀 The U.S. Naval Research Laboratory is testing space solar projects, aiming to generate and transmit energy from satellites to Earth.
• 🏢 Soul Share is a project that installs solar panels on apartment building roofs and distributes the generated electricity fairly among tenants.
• 🌐 A company called Alum Energy is pioneering in optimizing energy distribution between apartments using solar panels.
• 🔭 Inventor Andre Bracelli created 'Beta.a', a transparent sphere that focuses light on a photovoltaic cell to capture more solar energy efficiently.
• 🚗 Lightyear Zero is a solar-powered car that can travel up to 11,000 kilometers per year using only the energy it collects from its solar roof.

Q & A

What is the significance of the advancements in solar energy mentioned in the script?

The advancements in solar energy are significant as they represent a shift towards more efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly energy solutions. They include new methods of cleaning solar panels, higher efficiency solar cells, and innovative applications of solar power in various sectors.

How does the contactless method for cleaning solar panels developed by MIT researchers work?

The contactless method uses an electrode that moves along guide rails and electrifies the layer of dust particles on the solar panel. The particles, now with similar charges, repel each other and bounce off the surface of the module, effectively cleaning it without water or physical contact.

What is the average reduction in efficiency of a dirty solar panel?

On average, the efficiency of a dirty solar panel is reduced by 20 to 25 percent, and in some cases, it can be reduced by half.

What is perovskite PV and why is it significant in solar energy technology?

Perovskite PV is a new type of solar cell produced on an ultra-thin plastic substrate using inkjet printing. It is significant because it has achieved an impressive 31% efficiency, is significantly thinner than silicon photovoltaic cells, and can absorb a wider spectrum of light, making it more cost-effective and versatile.

How does the Space Solar Project of the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory aim to overcome the limitations of solar energy on Earth?

The Space Solar Project is testing the ability to generate and convert energy on space satellites. It involves a prototype of a space-based power station that can convert solar energy through solar panels on the satellite and transmit electricity in the form of microwave beams to Earth.

What is the concept behind Soul Share's solar energy project for apartment buildings?

Soul Share installs solar panels on the roofs of apartment buildings and distributes the electricity generated fairly among the building's tenants. The tenants do not have to pay for the equipment, and the solar installation covers a significant portion of the building's electricity needs, reducing costs.

What is the Light Year Zero and how does it utilize solar energy?

The Light Year Zero is a solar-powered sedan developed by the company Light Year. It features a lightweight body, in-wheel motors, and a solar roof made of flexible film-based photovoltaic cells. The car can travel up to 11,000 kilometers per year using only free solar energy.

How does the Beta.a device by inventor Andre Broessel aim to capture more solar energy?

The Beta.a device is a transparent sphere that acts like a lens, focusing solar flux onto a photovoltaic cell. It can capture energy from both solar and lunar light, and its motorized sun tracking system ensures the cell is always precisely positioned to capture the maximum amount of light.

What is the significance of the solar-powered train project in Byron Shire, Australia?

The solar-powered train project is significant as it demonstrates the practical application of solar energy in transportation. The train, powered by solar panels on its roof and batteries charged during braking, is an example of efficient use of resources and contributes to a cleaner environment.

What is the potential impact of the advancements in solar energy on the future of energy consumption?

The advancements in solar energy have the potential to significantly impact future energy consumption by providing cleaner, more sustainable, and cost-effective energy solutions. They could lead to a reduction in reliance on fossil fuels and contribute to achieving zero carbon emissions.

How do the dynamic pricing tags based on perovskite technology work in retail stores?

The dynamic pricing tags based on perovskite technology allow for prices to be simultaneously changed across the entire retail network. They can automatically reduce the price of products approaching their expiration date, improving efficiency and reducing waste.

Outlines

00:00

🌞 Solar Energy Innovations and Efficiency Enhancements

This paragraph introduces the ongoing solar energy revolution with a focus on advancements that increase the efficiency and accessibility of solar power. It discusses the successful transmission of solar energy from space to Earth, the creation of the world's first solar-powered train, and the development of a contactless, water-free method for cleaning solar panels, which is a significant improvement over traditional cleaning methods that are costly and require abundant water resources. The paragraph also highlights perovskite PV, a new type of solar cell with higher efficiency and lower production costs, and its potential applications in various devices and surfaces.

05:01

🚄 Solar-Powered Transportation and Technological Breakthroughs

The second paragraph delves into the practical applications of solar energy in transportation, starting with the innovative use of solar panels on apartment building roofs by Soul Share, which fairly distributes electricity among tenants. It then discusses the Australian company Alum Energy's efforts to optimize energy distribution in residential complexes. The paragraph also introduces the 'Beta.E' invention by Andre Bracchetti, a transparent sphere that focuses sunlight onto a photovoltaic cell, enhancing energy capture. Furthermore, it covers the Lightyear Zero solar car, which can travel significant distances using solar energy, and the world's first solar-powered train in Australia, demonstrating efficient use of resources and the potential for a greener future.

Keywords

💡Solar Energy Revolution

The term 'Solar Energy Revolution' refers to the significant advancements and innovations in harnessing solar power. It is central to the video's theme, which highlights the transformative potential of solar power in various applications. The script discusses the successful transmission of solar energy from space to Earth, indicating a leap in the efficiency and accessibility of solar power.

💡Solar Panels

Solar panels are devices that convert sunlight into electricity. They are a key component in the video's narrative, as they are used in various innovative ways, such as powering a train, cleaning without water, and being integrated into the design of cars and buildings. The script mentions the world's first train powered by solar panels and the development of new cleaning technologies for solar panels to increase their efficiency.

💡Efficiency

Efficiency in the context of the video pertains to the effectiveness with which solar panels convert sunlight into usable energy. The script notes that dirty solar panels can have their efficiency reduced by 20 to 25 percent, emphasizing the importance of maintenance. It also discusses perovskite solar cells, which have achieved high efficiency rates, indicating a significant advancement in solar technology.

💡Perovskite PV

Perovskite PV refers to a type of solar cell made from perovskite materials, which have shown great potential in solar energy due to their high efficiency and low production costs. The script highlights that perovskite PV has achieved an impressive 31% efficiency, making it a notable development in the field of solar energy.

💡Contactless Cleaning

Contactless cleaning is a method of maintaining solar panels without physically touching them, which can prevent damage and is particularly useful in areas with limited water resources. The script describes a technology developed by MIT researchers that uses an electrode to electrify dust particles, causing them to bounce off the solar panel surface, thus cleaning it without water or contact.

💡Space Solar Project

The Space Solar Project is an initiative aimed at generating and transmitting solar energy from space to Earth. The video script mentions the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory's work on this project, including the successful testing of a photovoltaic radio frequency antenna module in low Earth orbit, which could potentially provide a continuous clean energy source.

💡Solar-Powered Train

A solar-powered train is a vehicle that operates using electricity generated from solar panels. The script provides an example of a train in Australia that has been converted to run on solar energy, showcasing the practical application of solar power in transportation and its potential for reducing carbon emissions.

💡Solar Car

A solar car is a vehicle that uses solar panels to generate electricity for propulsion. The video script discusses the Lightyear Zero, a solar sedan with a solar roof made of flexible film-based photovoltaic cells, which can travel significant distances using only solar energy, illustrating the future potential of solar-powered transportation.

💡Solar Energy Technologies

Solar energy technologies encompass the various methods and devices used to harness and utilize solar power. The video script highlights several advancements in this field, such as perovskite solar cells, contactless cleaning methods, and space-based solar power generation, all of which contribute to the broader theme of the video.

💡SoleShare

SoleShare is a project mentioned in the script that involves installing solar panels on the roofs of apartment buildings to generate electricity for the tenants. The project aims to distribute the electricity fairly among residents, demonstrating a community-based approach to utilizing solar energy and its social implications.

💡Light Year Zero

Light Year Zero is a model of solar car produced by the company Lightyear, which was founded by the winners of the World Solar Challenge. The script describes this car as having a lightweight and spacious body with in-wheel motors and a solar roof that can generate enough energy to travel up to 11,000 kilometers per year, showcasing the integration of solar technology into modern transportation.

Highlights

The successful transmission of solar energy from space to Earth demonstrates new possibilities for the use of solar power.

The world's first train powered by solar panels has been created.

A new contactless method for cleaning solar panels could increase the efficiency of solar energy use in homes and buildings.

Dust, bird droppings, chemicals, and organic matter reduce the efficiency of solar panels by 20 to 25 percent on average, and sometimes by half.

MIT researchers have developed a waterless and contactless technology for cleaning solar panels using an electrified electrode.

Perovskite solar cells have achieved an efficiency of 31 percent, which is very high for this type of solar cell.

Perovskite solar panels are ultra-thin, cost-effective, and can be produced using inkjet printing on plastic substrates.

Perovskite solar panels can be used in wearable devices, clothing, cars, and on curved surfaces such as roofs and building walls.

Dynamic pricing tags based on perovskite technology allow prices to be changed simultaneously across an entire retail network.

The U.S. Naval Research Laboratory's space solar project is testing the generation and conversion of energy on space satellites.

The photovoltaic radio frequency antenna module (PRAM) has successfully transmitted solar energy from space to Earth in the form of microwave beams.

The Soulshare project installed solar panels on a 24-apartment building in Wales, covering 55 to 75 percent of the building's electricity needs.

The Beta.e transparent sphere collects solar and lunar energy, focusing light on a photovoltaic cell for increased efficiency.

The Lightyear Zero solar sedan can travel up to 11,000 kilometers per year using only solar energy.

A retro 1949 train was converted to run on electric power and solar energy, transporting over 100,000 passengers per year.

Transcripts

[Music]

foreign

s that will take solar energy to a new

level

the solar energy Revolution is happening

right before our eyes the successful

transmission of solar energy from space

to Earth is demonstrating new

possibilities for the use of solar power

the world's first train powered by solar

panels has been created

in this video we will discuss this and

many other exciting advancements in

solar energy including a new contactless

method for cleaning solar panels that

could increase the efficiency of solar

energy use in homes and buildings

[Music]

dust removal from solar panels without

water

dust bird droppings chemicals and

organic matter reduce the amount of

light that reaches the solar cell on

average the efficiency of a dirty solar

panel is reduced by 20 to 25 percent and

in some cases by half

typically solar modules are cleaned by

mechanically brushing and using a lot of

water this method is expensive and

inaccessible in areas where there is a

lack of Clean Water Resources

for this reason researchers at the

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

have developed a technology that cleans

without water and without contact with

the surface of the panel

an electrode is used which moves along

guide rails using an electric Drive the

electrode moves as close as possible to

the surface of the solar module and

electrifies the layer of dust

particles with similar charges bounce

off the surface of the module when it

gets a charge of the same sign

the process is fully automated and

occurs without human intervention

[Music]

perovskite PV

Solar Energy Technologies are reaching a

completely new level salt Technologies

has announced that their perovskite PV

has achieved an incredible 31 efficiency

which is a very high result for this

type of solar cell

perovskite solar panels are a new type

of solar cell that is produced on an

ultra thin plastic substrate using

inkjet printing

at the same output pscs are

significantly thinner than silicon

photovoltaic cells and the spectrum of

light they absorb is wider the cost of

one watt of perovskite power is five to

seven times lower than that of silicon

in addition they can be made with

relatively inexpensive and easily

accessible materials which can reduce

production costs thanks to their

flexibility perovskite solar panels can

be used in wearable devices clothing

cars and can be installed on curved

surfaces such as roofs and building

walls

allowing for maximum use of solar energy

perovskite solar panels have recently

found new users such as curtains polish

company zopka and salt technologies have

gone even further to install new Dynamic

pricing tags based on perovsky

technology in their stores which allows

prices to be simultaneously changed

across the entire retail Network and

automatically reduce the price of

products that are approaching their

expiration date

[Music]

Prem NRL space Soler

how to overcome the limitations of solar

energy on Earth what if we could place

solar panels in space and transmit

energy to Earth

it sounds like science fiction but such

work is already underway

the space solar project of the U.S naval

research laboratory is testing the

ability to generate and convert energy

on space satellites

a prototype of a space-based power

station the photovoltaic radio frequency

antenna module Prem has been tested in

low earth orbit as part of the

experiment successful testing of

transmitting equipment was conducted

which converted solar energy through

solar panels mounted on the satellite

and successfully directed electricity in

the form of microwave beams to Earth

the success of this experiment gives

hope that in the near future we will

have a clean energy source available 24

7.

Soul share

have you ever thought about the unused

potential of many apartment building

roofs this space can be used in various

ways but the company's sole share

presents the most efficient method they

have installed solar panels on the roof

of a 24 apartment building in Wales as

part of a pilot project funded by the

County Government

Soul share is a set of panels inverters

and batteries that convert energy from

solar panels into AC power

the social meaning of the project is to

distribute the electricity generated by

the solar installation fairly among the

building's tenants

none of the 24 tenants had to pay a

penny for the expensive equipment

now solar kilowatts covers between 55

and 75 of the building's electricity

needs and each apartment pays half as

much

soulshare is not the first solar project

for Australian company Alum energy the

challenge for the company's Engineers

was to find a solution for optimizing

energy distribution between apartments

no one in the world had done this before

illume energy

beta.e

[Music]

without being limited to established

approaches a true scientist can develop

more economical and environmentally

friendly Technologies

for example finding a way to capture

more solar energy without increasing the

surface area of solar panels

inventor Andre bracell set out to

collect the maximum amount of energy

from both solar and even lunar light

the result of his work is the

transparent sphere beta a which like a

lens focuses the solar flux on a

photovoltaic cell

due to the dense and stable flow of

light the small sized solar module

delivers power comparable to that of a

large battery

to catch the brightest rays in work in

low-light conditions beta a features a

motorized Sun tracking system

the electric motor rotates the

photovoltaic cell block on two axes and

the solar module is precisely positioned

on the sun with the help of cameras the

sphere can be used like conventional

solar panels to increase a building's

energy consumption and potentially as a

charging station for electric vehicles

another interesting proposal is to use

this technology as window-like devices

that collect solar energy although it

may take some time to get used to the

inverted view of the outside world

[Music]

light year zero

the team from the Eindhoven University

of Technology has won the world solar

challenge a race for solar powered cars

four times in a row

when the team leader Lex hoofsloot

founded the company light year in 2016.

no one doubted that they would create

the world's best solar car and put it

into mass production

the company's first model was the light

year one which was produced in a limited

edition of 100 cars however the Pinnacle

of technical Excellence became the zero

model

the light year zero solar sedan features

a lightweight and spacious body with a

volume of 474 liters and four in-wheel

Motors the onboard battery provides a

range of 185 miles without charging

the main feature of the light year zero

is the solar roof made of flexible

film-based photovoltaic cells with a

total area of 5 square meters according

to Lightyear's calculations the car can

travel up to 11 000 kilometers per year

using only free solar energy

while this figure may not seem

significant we may be able to drive much

farther on solar power in the future as

solar panel technology continues to

improve

foreign

[Music]

how about solar powered trains we've

heard of cars and planes running on

solar energy but what about trains a

group of enthusiasts from Byron Shire

Australia converted a regular

two-carriage train to run on electric

power and solar energy

it's a great example of how to use

resources efficiently

volunteers led by experienced Engineers

restored a retro 1949 train

after years of sitting idle in a train

graveyard the train is now back in

service transporting over 100 000

passengers per year the train has a

second life as the world's first

ecologically clean train

two electric motors are powered by solar

energy from 6.5 kilowatt solar panels on

the roof of the carriages

the onboard Lithium-ion batteries are

also charged during braking and while

stationary at the departure station from

30 kilowatt solar panels on the roof

the train requires only 23 percent of

the energy generated by the solar panels

to operate along the Route with the

remainder of the clean energy being fed

back into the County's power grid

by 2050 Humanity will have to switch to

Green energy environmentally friendly

transportation and zero carbon emissions

the path to a clean planet is impossible

without new inventions and Technologies

and we will continue to introduce you to

them subscribe to our channel to always

stay up to date on discoveries in the

world of science and technology

[Music]

thank you

foreign

[Music]