Solar Energy

Solar energy is the conversion of sunlight into usable energy forms. Solar photovoltaics (PV), solar thermal electricity and solar heating and cooling are well established solar technologies. Solar PV combines two advantages: module manufacturing can be done in large plants, which allows for economies of scale, and it is also a very modular technology and can be deployed in very small quantities at a time. This allows for a wide range of applications. Systems can be very small, from personal electronics or off-grid applications, up to utility-scale power generation facilities. Bertrand PICARD said “Solar power operates by converting light from the sun into energy. The UK is installing solar panels faster than any other European nation. The largest solar power plant in the world – the Noor Abu Dhabi project in UAE - produces 117 GW, supplying electricity to 90,000 people. This will help to reduce the country’s carbon footprint by 1 million metric tonnes per year. Examples of Solar energy technologies that have received Solar Impulse Foundation label include the Concentrated Solar Thermal Solution, an innovative solution for producing green heat for industries and cities; CONTAINWATT, a mobile renewable energy generator and storage system, creating an autonomous convertible shelter; and Solarimo, a solution for real estate which plans, realizes, and operates solar solutions and sells the electricity to the tenants.”