Graphic - After the cost of solar panels plummeted solar power has grown sharply as a global electricity source

 

Source: How global energy production is changing - based on a Pew Research Center analysis of data from Ember, an independent think tank focusing on global energy trends.

Solar panels on farms make sheep happier and healthier

 

 Scientists wanted to study the impact of ‘agrivoltaic’ farms on animal welfare. ‘Agrivoltaic’ means using land for both farming and solar power. Researchers attached data trackers to 80 ewes, placing half in a field that was 60% covered by solar panels and the other half in a traditional open field in late autumn and winter. The sheep in the solar panel field spent 70% of their time sheltering beneath the panels. They grazed 8% more than their open-field companions and lay down to rest 71% more. They also spent 16% less time standing around idle, awarning sign for poor welfare. #sheep #solarpanel #renewableenergy #agrivoltaics

Transparent solar panel windows

 

These windows act as transparent solar panels due to a solar coating that can be added to standard windows while they’re being made. The coating contains a special mix of organic salts, which absorb the non-visible portion of the solar spectrum. Ubiquitous Energy says the windows could transform solar capacity worldwide and turn skyscrapers into solar powerhouses if deployed on a large scale. #solarpanel #window #sustainability #solarpower #renewableenergy