One strategy to use less (expensive) silicon in solar panels is by concentrating the sunlight with lenses on the solar cells. The drawback is the heat: silicon does not like to be overheated. So you see designs with elaborate cooling fins to keep the solar cells at a reasonable temperature.
I guess it would only be a matter of time before somebody realized you could harvest that heat as well, increasing the energy produced by this envestment and reducing the waste.
Well, here is one example.
Entech Solar produces combined cycle solar collectors called ThermaVolt. I am curious about the real-life performance…….
About Herman
Herman Wagter is one of the founders and co-editor of Dadamotive. His work as interim manager and consultant (Citynet Amsterdam/Fiber-to-the-Home, Platform Sustainable Mobility) has involved him directly in the impact of hyperconnectivity and sustainability on society. As an independent agent and "mobile warrior" he has experienced the pro's and con's of how organizations and projects can be structured, and what the effects on the final result can be. In his opinion we are entering an era of profound change, driven by these fundamental forces. Following the trends, discovering the fun and debunking the half-truths is a passion he likes to share with others.
