Solar Energy Investing

France24.com reports that scientists are in the process of creating a new type of solar panel. These panels will be able to exert more energy, will be more user-friendly, and less expensive. This comes on the heels of dwindling economies around the world and estimations that renewable energy will decrease by nearly 38% in 2009.

GreenProphet.com reports that 3G Solar has been turning their efforts to dye-sensitized technology in Africa. The type of solar cell has many advantages, including low cost, both production and wholesale value. It also does not use silicon, which makes it very environmentally friendly.

Examiner.com reports that demonstrations on the BigBelly Solar trash compactor took place at Colorado University earlier this month. The compactors are the only solar powered ones in the world and are used by many colleges throughout the country.

PressReleaseNetwork.com reports that Sharp will unveil their new Solar Module for Mobile Devices (LR0GC02). The unit will have a thickness of 0.8 mm and can be manipulated by device manufacturers to meet their own specific requirements.

Azonano.com reports that DuPont will now mass produce photovoltaic encapsulant sheets. The sheets create better durability and efficiency for photovoltaic modules by helping to create a longer life and less cost per-watt.

PCAuthority.com reports that Australia is introducing a new line of battery extenders called PowerTravellers. The battery will run from the internal “PowerChimp” that recharges from main power sources. The company also makes portable solar cells.

FastCompany.com reports that Armageddon Energy is changing the way solar panels are installed on rooftops. Their new prefab panels are nearly ready to slap on the roof right out of the box. The user-friendly panels are made to be connected to each other by using a set of tabs and slots in only a few minutes.

Israel21c.org reports that Israeli company AORA has built the first solar-thermal powered gas turbine station. The unit has flower-shaped, 30-meter high tower is close to a completed project. It is located in the Arava region of Israel.

PopSci.com reports that Bertrand Piccard, a Swiss pilot, will begin to test the Solar Impulse–a solar-powered airplane. The aircraft has been created to fly around the world without burning any oil. Skeptics are aplenty, but Piccard is eager to demonstrate that the sky is the limit when it comes to renewable energy.

The Creative Loafing blog reports that SRS Energy and US Tile have come together to create “barrel-style” solar energy panels. These tiles have the solar energy technology built right into them and they weigh less than traditional ones. They are also more aesthetic than regular panels and fit right alongside any existing tiles homeowners may have on their roof.