After the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the subsequent sanctions imposed on Russian companies, many European countries realized it was the time to find a way to minimize their reliance on Russian gas and fossil fuels. Germany was one of the countries torn between its energy needs and the desire to break free from its reliance on Moscow.
While energy independence in times of conflict is crucial, curbing carbon emissions is no less urgent. Several countries are studying alternatives to accomplish their net-zero emission targets in the decades to come. Renewable energy sources and methods are at the forefront of several policy makers’ agendas.
According to Forbes, solar power accounts for almost a third of global renewable energy capacity. A solar power plant situated on a quarry lake in Western Germany is expected to produce 3 megawatts of power, the World Economic Forum reports. This is the equivalent to an average onshore wind turbine.
The facility on Lake Silbersee in Haltern am See comprises 5,800 modules on 360 floating elements. Germany could house around 20 gigawatts of solar energy on water, enough to keep the lights on in around 15 million homes. Floating systems are also regarded as sustainable and are quicker to install. Lakes are one of the more likely venues for solar panels but there are other locations. Here are some of world’s unusual solar panel spots, as reported by the World Economic Forum.
1. Solar islands
Floating solar panels have been constructed off an island in the Maldives to generate electricity for a tourist resort. Generating a modest 680 kilowatts, it is so far one of the largest of its kind in the sea. Unlike lakes, the ocean presents challenges such as strong waves and salt water which can attack and erode the panels.
2. Solar roads
Solar technology is being experimented with on roads and pavements. A 70-metre ‘solar road’ bike path near Amsterdam in the Netherlands is lined with photovoltaic (PV) cells covered with tempered glass. In the first six months it generated 3,000 kilowatts of energy, enough to provide one person with enough electricity for a year.
3. Abandoned golf courses
With golf losing popularity in some parts of the world, solar power developers have been given the perfect environment to install large-scale power plants. Disused golf courses provide plenty of land, high sun exposure and a low concentration of trees.
4. Solar carports
In the United States, solar carports have been springing up. Utilizing the canopies covering the parked cars, these solar installations not only generate renewable energy but they also reduce the urban heat island effect, helping to cool cities. Additionally, of course, they can help recharge parked electric vehicles.
5. The race for space
The UK government is said to be considering building a massive solar power station in space – that would beam renewable energy back to Earth. The estimated price tag is an eye-watering $20 billion. With global energy needs predicted to increase by nearly 50% by 2050, space-based solar power could significantly help meet demand as well as help limit global warming.
