That is like two great things coming in one little package and if you know anything about modern transparent transistors then it surely is a very little package. In a world which is quickly becoming very concerned about the steep increase in the cost of solar power in the last couple of years or so the new technology that promises solar energy that is twice as efficient as the one produced by traditional solar panels at half the price is truly something that could change the way we look at alternate sources.
HP and Xtreme Energetics, a solar energy system developer based in Livermore, Calif., have entered into an agreement for the development of a solar energy system that works on transparent transistor technology that will be used in XE’s solar energy device was co-developed by HP and Oregon State University. The technology includes thin-film transparent transistors, which are made from low-cost, readily available materials such as zinc and tin. The materials raise no environmental concerns and allow for higher mobility, better chemical stability and easier manufacture, according to XE and HP.
Xtreme Energetics plans to put out its first solar system in 12 months, minus HP’s transparent transistors. Within 24 months, the company will release roof panels integrated with HP’s technology to deliver dramatic energy gains at a comparable price point to conventional PV systems. The transistor technology enables control of XE’s concentration and tracking system as it provides a transparent electronic mechanism to maximize the concentration of light. When coupled with XE’s system, the technology improves conversion efficiency, as maximum light can get through without being blocked by traditional non-transparent electronics. This new solar technology is sure to change the way people look and use solar energy forever, or so one strongly hopes.
