Solar power has already revolutionised the way we power our homes and businesses – but what’s next in the world of solar? From high speed trains and electric planes to orbiting solar farms in space, solar technology is breaking out of traditional roles and pushing the limits of what’s possible in the future. As innovation accelerates, the future of solar could be limitless. This article explores the groundbreaking directions solar is heading and how it could power not just our planet but beyond.
Solar on the Move: Cars, Trains and Planes
Solar cars – research is ongoing into solar powered cars, these would include solar PV inbuilt into the car’s roof which contributes to the driving capacity. Early research is seeing an additional 15 miles per day on top of battery capacity – so while it’s only in its infancy, early results are looking promising.
Solar trains – the UK saw its first solar powered railway installed in 2019, with a small pilot study of 100 panels installed track side at Aldershot station, where solar power was directed straight to the station to run the trains. The trial was a success and research into further solar farms for powering the railway network is underway.
In the Netherlands, solar canopies have been installed to power train stations and infrastructure. And India has seen coaches installed with solar panels to power lights, fans and information displays on their trains.
Solar planes – the Solar Impulse 2 aircraft made history by flying around the world using only solar power in 2015. While commercial flights are a long way off, the Solar Impulse 2 set precedent for further research into hybrid planes and whether solar energy can be used to reduce emissions in the aviation industry.
Power From Space: the Reality of Orbiting Solar Farms
Space based solar power sounds like something from a science fiction movie, but its becoming closer to reality than a dream all the time. China, the US and European space agencies are all researching into space solar farms. In theory a solar farm in space will be extremely efficient – collecting sunlight 24/7 without weather interruptions and nightfall, but in practice the idea is still in research phase. Space launch is expensive, and there are unknowns with protecting the panels from damage by space debris.
Next-Generation Solar Materials
Solar technology is also improving on materials and how they work.
- Perovskite solar cells promise higher efficiency and lower costs than traditional silicon panels. While still only in use for commercial properties, at SolarTherm UK we expect them to be on the market soon enough and are excited for the future of rooftop solar PV.
- Transparent solar glass can generate electricity from windows, without blocking the light. The glass roof at Kings Cross Station consists of 1,392 glass laminate panels produce around 175,000 kWh of green electricity per year.
- Flexible solar film is lightweight and adaptable, making it suitable for clothing , vehicles and portable devices. Still being developed for these uses, the future of solar is promising.
- Solar tiles can replace traditional roof materials and work in the same way as standard solar panels. Still relatively difficult to get hold of in the UK, these may be the future of aesthetically pleasing solar pv systems.
- Solar roads were trialled in France and the US. Unfortunately they were unsuccessful in their trials and France scrapped their first solar road within 4 years after damage was high and production was low. While much less efficient that rooftop solar, further research is ongoing on the benefit of solar roads.
Solar in Extreme Environments
Solar is powering more than just grid connected homes – it has helped areas where infrastructure can’t reach from rural homes to remote deserts and polar research stations. Portable solar units also help provide critical power for medical equipment and communication in disaster relief zones and refugee camps.
What the Future of Solar Means for You – Today
You don’t need to wait for space-based solar or smart solar glass to start saving. By installing a home solar PV system you can start saving today – up to 70% in most cases. By investing in a high-quality solar system now you’re preparing your home for the future – one that’s cleaner, greener and smarter.
The future of solar is just beginning, from public transport to private homes and even as far as the moon. At SolarTherm UK we’re proud to be part of the journey to a more sustainable future. Every day we help our customers harness the power of the sun by future-proofing their property with a solar PV system.
If you’re ready to go solar, contact SolarTherm UK today for a free bespoke design package, tailored to your property, usage and energy future. No hard sell, just honest, expert advice.
