Comments on: Cheap Solar: It’s Closer than You Think

By: Matthew Holtry

Matthew Holtry — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 21:18:07 +0000

@cmg311 – This funding is actually part of the Solar America Initiative started by the Bush Administration. You can see more information at the attached URL.

By: cmg311

cmg311 — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 20:52:46 +0000

Does the DOE funding mentioned above come from the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant? Is the company seeking ARRA stimulus funds?

By: Chris

Chris — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 14:38:11 +0000

On the heat build up issue — perhaps they could utilize a prism to refract the concentrated light, thereby optimizing the process by utilizing PV cells at their most optimal wavelengths and throwing the rest into a traditional liquid sodium heater used spin a turbine? Just a thought.

By: Matthew Holtry

Matthew Holtry — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 09:07:25 +0000

Thank you Colin.

The HGS system is designed with heat syncs to dissipate extra heat. The panels are purposely located on the edges of the system to facilitate extra airflow for cooling, and the lifespan of the panels is not compromised. (This was actually an architecture weakness of other HGS systems which put the panels in the middle of the system… Those DID burn up..)

Here is a great link of the architecture:
http://www.skyline-solar.com/architecture.htm

By: Anonymous

Anonymous — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 23:23:40 +0000

Given how the technology is dependent on magnification, is its functionality dependent on direct sunlight? If so, this technology will only really work in areas with high levels of direct insolation and little-to-no clouds.

By: Colin

Colin — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 18:58:06 +0000

What does this to to the lifespan of those panels? All extra hot ant-burning magnifying glass style? If they have that worked out, it sounds like a good product!