Solar Energy on the Go?

After over twenty years in the making, scientists have finally developed a method to store and then activate solar energy on demand. Science Daily released an article stating that, “Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology and UC Berkeley have developed a system which can store solar energy in chemical bonds.” Basically what is happening is the molecules that make up the solar cells are being structured so that they are able to store a higher amount of energy in a stable manner. Once the new form of molecule has obtained the heat energy, it can be released at a later date using a catalyst to make the molecule revert to its original state.

These molecules can keep the solar power for a number of years and then release the stored heat energy to be used in the production of power. The stored energy can even be transported! The reason that this new technology is so important is that by being able to use these cells like a battery will allow the use of the full potential of the sun.  As it currently stands solar energy is a great form of power, however, being able to store energy when consumption is less than uptake will not only reduce the price of solar power, it will allow people who cannot have solar panels to use the excess energy that is being stored in these new compounds.

While this technology will not be available for public use for some time, the researchers seem hopeful, stating, “If we can develop better and cheaper materials. In principle there is nothing to prevent us applying the concept on a larger scale.” This new research has renewed the hop that there is a great future for solar as a major energy source.

If you would like to read more, the article is available at Science Daily:
http://bx3.me/C0aPCFii