As clever as solar energy is, it is still not as consistent as we would like it to be. Of course when the sun isn’t shinning they do still generate electricity however at a vastly reduced amount. Nonetheless a groundbreaking breakthrough has recently been discovered through the combination of solar and hydrogen power. The concept dubbed ‘Hydricity’ derived from the combination of hydrogen and electricity could potentially revolutionise the renewable energy sector which has a fundamental challenge of storing the generated renewable electricity on a commercial scale. Fundamentally there are two aspects in generating electricity from the sun. Photovoltaic cells (also known as a PV panel) can be commonly seen across a large proportion of UK roof spaces, then there is solar thermal power plants. These gather heat directly from the sun’s rays then passes this heat on to heat water which can be used to propel turbines through the generated steam. This form of solar energy predominately relies upon the sounds solar spectrum, consequently they are ineffectual when sunlight is absent, which is why they are more commonly seen in countries whereby there is a great deal of consistent sunlight. Even so, how does hydrogen help the cause? Through solar generation collaborating with hydrogen plants means that the competence of both systems can be increased dramatically. Through combining the technology would permit for generating electricity instantly and moreover the hydrogen would facilitate in storing the energy for subsequent use. The evolution in renewable energy is developing at a rate never seen before, this is predominantly due to our increasing pressure to halt climate change and prevent a global average temperature rise of 2°C. It was only last week that all countries which are members of the United Nations Convention on Climate Change which consists of 195 nations and the EU met in paris for a fresh binding target by 2030 for a 40% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, a minimum 27% energy mix of renewable energy and finally at least a 27% improvement in energy efficiency. The design embraces existing developments from other researchers whilst collectively improving them. It’s noted that the daylight and nightlight structure would utilise nearly all of the very same apparatus which would in turn permit them segue smoothly, symbolising an added reward above contrasting battery supported solar knowledge. Historically electricity generation and hydrogen generation have been explored remotely, what the researchers have carried out is synergistically integrated the systems while simultaneously refining one another. Over a 24 hour period it’s believed that ‘hydrogen electricity could provide an efficiency level of 35% which is as competent as the leading multifunction photovoltaic cells integrated with battery capacity. In turn the stored hydrogen power permits energy to kick into operation once sunlight has disappeared. The notion is a stimulating opportunity towards heating and electricity, the studies full documentation can be analysed via the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. What does this mean for electric powered heating? This is fantastic news for consumers who are already benefiting from low energy consumption electric radiators. Through the continual refinement of renewable electric technology, you can smugly enjoy being a step ahead over your gas heated counterparts. It’s a fact that wind power is currently the cheapest method of producing electricity in the UK. This is due to advances in efficiency and storage. Essentially the expense of generating electrify via wind is free, there is merely the expense of maintenance to cover, compare this with fossil fuels which require to be purchased per unit together with transportation to a power plant to then be burnt. Subsequently a reduction in the amount of fossil fuels generated via power plants means that there is an increased production expense to apply which means a higher cost of electricity. Combine low cost renewable electricity with astonishing controllability and low energy consumption electric heating and it is clear to see why energy efficient electric radiators have established themselves as an economic heating solution. They are so versatile that if you posses a renewable energy generator such as solar panels or a wind turbine you could essentially power your central heating system for free. My Electric Radiators are passionate about proving you with the latest energy news and views throughout the UK. They are also leading suppliers in the latest low energy consumption electric radiators which can help you to reduce your energy bills and decrease that all important carbon footprint. If you would like to know more surrounding the latest electric heating technology and how they can help save you money then call one of their electric heating experts today for free and friendly advice 01423 619303. Alternatively if you prefer to send an enquiry electronically please email [email protected]