CoolEarth is creating & using balloons made of metalized plastic films, half of the balloon is transparent letting the light in to be concentrated into a small high-efficiency solar panel by the concave interior. Each balloon is 2 meters across and depending on the source, estimates vary from 500 watt to 1 kilowatt. They are supported by cables, leaving the ground below clear and limiting environmental impact. It is reported that CoolEarth is planning to build a solar farm in the 10 megawatt range in the next few years. It would use about 10,000 balloons over 80 acres..
Article Link: www.treehugger.com
Official Website Link: www.coolearthsolar.com
Interesting idea, I’m not convinced about the improved land use. I still think covering roofs of buildings is the best way to generate, we have already moved in on the land and not making the most of it.
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