CLEAN TECH

“ It combines a solar cell technology able to convert infrared solar light into electricity and a selective scattering filter , which scatters the whole visible spectrum while transmitting infrared light ,” CSEM explains . “ Any solar technology based on crystalline silicon can now be used to manufacture white — and colored — modules .”

The ability to change the panel ’ s color is also important from a design standpoint . CSEM is providing a blank slate can be easily integrated into almost any building design , making going solar easier than ever .

“ Our revolutionary technology lets us achieve what was supposed to be impossible : white and colored solar panels with no visible cells or connections ,” CSEM said . “ It can be applied on top of an existing module or integrated into a new module during

It ’ s a Bird ! It ’ s a Plane ! It ’ s … a Wind Turbine ? A major issue when it comes to renewable energy is space . For island nations , space is critical as there ’ s a pretty limited amount and it ’ s generally used for necessities such as agriculture . So , when one looks at a place such as the Hawaiian Islands , it ’ s difficult to find where a major solar or wind farm could fit in .

Makani , a Google-owned startup , is looking to solve this problem via its flying wind turbines . The company , which is part of the Google X division , is working in Hawaii specifically to develop the turbine as it hopes it will lead to greater renewable energy utilization and reduced cost .

Makani is known for designing and developing lightweight kites that can harness wind energy from a high altitude . The concept is both similar and different to offshore wind or solar farms . While the ultimate

20 February 2015