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Source- This post on Solar Paraboloid Technology has been created based on the article “Solar paraboloid technology – The next frontier in renewable energy” published in “Economic Times” on 31 August 2024.
Why in News?
Solar paraboloid technology stands out as a promising transformative solution with the world urgently moving towards renewable energy,
About Solar Paraboloid Technology
| Aspects | Description |
| About | 1. Solar paraboloid technology is a type of concentrating solar power (CSP) that uses a parabolic-shaped reflector to focus sunlight onto a single focal point. 2. It leverages the geometric properties of a parabola to maximize the concentration of solar energy into heat, making it highly efficient for solar applications. |
| Components and Functionality | 1. Reflector: It is the primary component is a parabolic dish made from materials like aluminum or silver-coated glass, designed to reflect and concentrate sunlight. 2. Receiver: It is positioned at the focal point of the parabola, the receiver absorbs concentrated solar energy and converts it into thermal energy. 3. Working Fluid: The thermal energy is transferred to a working fluid (e.g., water or molten salt) that drives a thermodynamic cycle, such as a Stirling engine or steam turbine, to generate electricity. |
| Advantages of Solar Paraboloid Technology | 1. It is capable of achieving temperatures up to 1000°C, allowing for a higher conversion efficiency from thermal to electrical energy compared to other CSP technologies. 2. It can generate significant energy from a small reflective surface area, making it suitable for both large-scale power plants and smaller, decentralized applications. 3. The systems are modular and can be scaled to meet specific energy needs, providing flexibility in deployment across different settings. 4. The high efficiency of solar paraboloids could lower the cost per unit of electricity. This makes solar energy more competitive with fossil fuels. |
| Challenges | 1. It requires accurate sun-tracking mechanisms to ensure optimal alignment and maximum energy capture, adding to the system’s complexity and cost. 2. Its efficiency can be affected by weather conditions such as cloud cover and dust as this reduces the amount of solar radiation that reaches the receiver. 3. Regular maintenance is necessary to keep the reflective surfaces and moving parts in optimal condition to ensure maximum performance. |
| Potential and Future Outlook | 1. Solar paraboloid technology has the potential to significantly contribute to renewable energy solutions due to its high efficiency and adaptability. 2. As technological advancements reduce costs and improve reliability, this technology could become a vital component in global renewable energy strategies, particularly in sun-rich regions. |
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