Eco Factor: Solar hybrid prototype to help meet clean energy demands.
The California Public Utility Commission has awarded a $1.5 million grant to finance Cogenra Solar’s full scale 272 kW demonstration prototype of solar hybrid co-generation of heat and electricity prototype. Intended for the mid-sized commercial market, the prototype aims at reducing solar costs by producing both electricity and heat from one unit.
The solar-cogen comprises of a long narrow array of solar photovoltaic cells that capture solar energy facing downwards towards the reflected and highly focused sunshine bounced up by the mirrors. Above the solar array is the tube that carries the liquid to siphon off the heat used in solar hot water. The ground-mounted panels generate enough heat as they rotate on their trackers to follow the sun. The CPUC hopes that the system could provide electricity, hot water and cooling at the same time, thereby greatly reducing California’s energy demands.
Via: CleanTechnica
