When you hear the word ‘Solar Power’, you probably just think about solar panels. But solar power has more to it with the help of advancing technology. 2021 was a great year for solar power despite the demand-supply imbalance and the grid challenges. 2022 is even going to be bigger for innovations in the solar world. Solar PV is predicted to be accountable for 60% of renewable energy production according to an IEA report. Here are some of the most exciting and trending solar revolutions of 2022.
1. Solar Glass
Just like the normal solar panels, solar glass retrieves energy from the Sun. But the difference is it is transparent and can be used as normal glass too. You can convert your traditional windows to solar glass and reap the benefits of solar energy. This concept would make it much more convenient to use solar power rather than the hassle of installing solar panels on the roof. Imagine getting sunshine and generating solar power through the same glass! Though the efficiency of solar glass is yet to be tested, it is one of the top solar innovations in 2022.
2. Floating Photovoltaics
A floating solar photovoltaic (FPV) or floating solar farm is an emerging concept in which a solar PV system is built on top of a water body rather than on buildings or rooftops. A recent market research report by Technavio states that floating solar panels are expected to gain momentum with a CAGR of 16.89% from 2021 to 2026. The main advantage of FPVs is they do not require any land occupancy and they are much more compact making them easy to maintain. As the systems are exposed to direct sunlight most of the time during the day, energy production from the Sun can be quite high. The challenge is to ensure electrical measures and ensure safety from harsh weather conditions.
3. BIPV Solar Technology
Known as the Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPVs) is a concept that aims to blend solar power into building architecture impeccably. Some of these architectural components are walls, roofs, canopies, pillars, etc. The idea is similar to the solar glass where solar power is integrated within the building instead of incorporating bulky solar panels. This way the aesthetics and appeal of the building stay the same while making the most of the renewable energy source.
4. Solar Fabric
Sunlight is available in abundance so why just generate power from the rooftop? Solar Fabric is an advanced concept where you can generate your own electricity. Researchers are developing solar fabric filaments that can absorb the sunlight through fiber. These solar filaments can be embedded into your clothing, wearables, and accessories. It can be used to keep yourself warmer, charge your phone, and for other energy purposes. Solar fabric sounds fascinating, doesn’t it?
5. Photovoltaic Solar Noise Barriers (PVNB)
Due to the development of the automobile industry, there has been a drastic increase in the number of vehicles in recent years. More the vehicles, more the traffic noise pollution. To solve this issue, nearly 3000 miles of traffic noise barriers have been built in more than 45 states of the US. These traffic noise barriers have the capacity to equip over 30,000+ houses with 400 GWh of energy produced annually. So, one solution can solve two problems; canceling noise pollution and generating renewable energy!
On An Ending Note
It seems like the bright shining Sun, the future of solar power is bright too! With all the technological advancements and innovations in the solar power world, 2022 is going to be a remarkable year. If you are looking for solar designing services such as to permit packages, prelim designs, and PE Stamping, Finulent is your go-to stop. for more details.