Technology aims to convert solar energy on large scale

The Xerox subsidiary known as PARC has produced super-efficient solar systems that experts say could make photovoltaic power available on a large scale at prices competitive with fossil fuels for the first time. The research at PARC is part of an eco-friendly technology trend that draws on the materials and know-how that built computer microprocessors and other high-tech staples. In an era of stratospheric oil prices, investors are beginning to see solar as the next big thing, despite its embryonic state.

Recently, a handful of companies have developed systems that use mirrors or lenses to concentrate the sun's rays as much as 500 times and increase efficiency to as much as 26%, with projections up to 50%. Higher efficiency means cheaper power. Several such "concentrating photovoltaic" schemes have been devised. PARC's concentrating technology was developed with SolFocus, a start-up being incubated inside PARC.

(2006-07-25 08:04:06 SGT) [Energy] Permalink

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