Lander (Japan): New 'Extreme' Solar Energy System

Japan’s Massive Plan for Solar Energy

The city of Lander in Yamagata Prefecture, Japan, has created a unique technique to generate electricity from solar power. The system, which is claimed to be the initial of its kind in the world, utilizes a combination of concentrating photovoltaics and thermal energy storage. The result is a system that is significantly more efficient than traditional solar panels.

The system makes use of a series of mirrors to focus sunlight onto a small area, which then heats up a fluid. This fluid is consequently pumped into a thermal energy storage unit, where it is used to generate steam. The steam is consequently utilized to drive a turbine, which creates power.

Benefits of the New System

One of the main advantages of this system over traditional solar panels is its enhanced efficiency. Traditional solar panels only transform roughly 20% of the sunlight that strikes them into power. The new system, on the other hand, can transform more than 40% of the sunlight that strikes it into power.

Another advantage of the system is that it can store energy for later use. This means that it can continue to generate electricity even when the sun is not shining. This is an essential feature for a renewable energy system, as it has the ability to overcome one of the main drawbacks of solar power.

The Future of Solar Energy

The system developed in Lander is a substantial step forward in the development of solar energy. It has the potential to make solar energy a more viable option for electricity production. If the system can be widely implemented, it could help to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and combat climate change.