Solar panels will be vital to powering the world in the future, but what will we do on days when the clouds block the sun’s rays? Energy scientists from France’s CNRS and the University of Tokyo are looking towards balloons for the answer. The scientists are developing solar panels attached to high-altitude balloons that would hypothetically float 20 kilometers above the ground, far beyond where most clouds reside. At that altitude, the direct illumination is five times more intense than on Earth, resulting in more effective energy conversion. One of the greatest appeals of these balloons is that they would be filled using hydrogen, and would be able to use that same hydrogen to store about 10 days equivalent of its own solar electricity production. Structural and installation costs have yet to be seen, but high-flying solar balloons could just provide another efficient alternative for renewable energy production.
High-altitude balloons with solar panels could produce power on cloudy days
More of Today's Solutions
Period tax scrapped in Pakistan: what the ruling means for women
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Two lawyers filed a court case. Thousands signed a petition. Pakistan just agreed to scrap its sales tax ...
Read MoreHow to reset your gut in 30 days, according to a gastroenterologist
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM You’ve probably spent more time than you’d like to admit wondering if something is off with your gut. ...
Read MoreThousands of people in the UK to receive landmark trials for dementia blood t...
In an effort to revolutionize dementia diagnosis, two large studies are planned to take place across the UK, offering thousands of concerned individuals blood ...
Read MoreHow to use borax spray safely and effectively around your home
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM If you’re looking to cut back on harsh chemicals at home, you’re not alone. More and more people ...
Read More
