In the pursuit of reaching net-zero emissions, innovative solutions are emerging to harness the immense power of renewable energy sources. One such concept that has been gaining attention is the prospect of capturing falling particles of solar energy.
Australia, a nation abundant in sunlight, is at the forefront of exploring this intriguing avenue. As the world grapples with the urgency of mitigating climate change, this concept, though unconventional, holds the potential to revolutionise the way we generate clean energy and accelerate our path to net-zero emissions.
A team at a concentrated solar thermal research facility in New South Wales (NSW) has recently announced a breakthrough in their research about the potential of falling ceramic particles to capture and store solar energy as heat.
Understanding falling particles of solar energy
Falling particles of solar energy centres on the use of tiny solar-charged particles that can be dispersed into the atmosphere to capture sunlight and convert it into electricity as they descend. It’s akin to turning the sky into a dynamic solar power generator.
These solar particles are designed to be lightweight and unobtrusive, making them highly versatile and suitable for various applications.
The science behind these solar particles revolves around the use of nanotechnology and photovoltaics. These tiny particles are equipped with highly efficient solar cells that can convert sunlight into electrical energy.
The process is similar to how traditional solar panels work but on a smaller, more mobile scale. By being dispersed into the air, they can access sunlight at different angles and times of the day, potentially increasing overall energy capture.
Unlike rooftop solar panels or large-scale solar farms, they are not fixed in one location and don’t require significant land use. Instead, they can be deployed where they are needed, making them a flexible solution for various energy demands.
A breakthrough
CSIRO’s research facility has achieved a significant milestone temperature of 803 degrees Celsius at the falling particle receiver for the first time. The team is using Concentrated Solar Thermal (CST), which uses mirrors to focus sunlight, convert it to heat and store or use to generate electricity.
The team used tiny, heated particles that act like a battery that can store energy for up to 15 hours. These particles can endure temperatures over 1000 degrees Celsius. As the particles cool, they release energy, which would provide power event at night or times when there’s low solar and wind output.
The “falling” part uses gravity to heat the particles and they are dropped from a hopper at the top of the tower and heated as they pass through focused solar energy. They fall freely, which avoids heat limitations of steel. Once heated, they are stored in a silo. So, when needed, they’re used to produce steam for power generation or other industrial activities.
The road to net zero
As Australia strives to achieve net-zero emissions and foster a sustainable energy future, the concept of falling particles of solar energy offers a unique and potentially game-changing role in the nation’s energy mix.
The country is known for its vast expanses of sun-soaked landscapes, and these solar particles could play a role in harnessing these abundant resources. Dispersing them into the atmosphere provides the opportunity to capture sunlight at various angles and times, increasing our solar energy capture potential.
This innovation complements traditional solar power infrastructure and also addresses one of its limitations—the reliance on fixed solar panels.
The ability to generate power from the sky presents an exciting avenue to diversify our energy sources, reduce carbon emissions and progress towards a net-zero future.
Integration into the national energy grid
To integrate falling particles of solar energy into the national energy grid, collaboration between the government, energy providers and innovators will be paramount.
The captured electricity can be fed into the grid, which will enhance energy resilience and reduce the need for fossil fuels. Also, it will allow for power generation even in overcast conditions that can contribute to grid stability.
Indeed, the concept of harnessing falling particles of solar energy represents and exciting and innovative avenue. Whilst this technology is still in the experimental stages, its potential to diversify our energy sources, improve grid stability and reduce our carbon footprint is promising.
As Australia’s commitment to sustainability and clean energy grows, exploring unconventional yet impactful solutions like solar particles can indeed bring us closer to achieving our net-zero goals and building a more environmentally responsible future.
Energy Matters has over 17 years of experience in the solar industry and has helped over 40,000 Australian households in their journey to energy independence.
Complete our quick Solar Quote Quiz to receive up to 3 FREE quotes from trusted local installers – it’ll only take you a few minutes and is completely obligation-free.
