Here's "boy genius" Bill Gross, founder and CEO of Idealab. This is a somewhat older video (from his notable 2003 TED presentation) but it's an idea whose time may very well be at hand.
His creation of a solar energy collector/concentrator competes with - and may challenge the dominance of - the Photovoltaic micro-solar panel. The video is roughly 21 minutes... but well worth it if for nothing more than his "ingenuberance" (a portmanteau for ingenuity + exuberance).
Perfecting the device he demos here (or one like it) may solve many of the energy concentration/storage space/efficiency issues still plaguing battery-dependent photovoltaics for sustainability. It may also reduce or eliminate the need for a back up diesel system to satisfy peak load demand.
UPDATE: eSolar appears to be putting Bill Gross' innovations to work.
And look who noticed.
More interesting ideas from Bill Gross. This essay, from January 30, 2009, discusses proportional-use pricing for electricity.
The eyes have it
3 days ago
Bill Gross is amazing. Its a great video and he seems to get better with age.
ReplyDeletehis company is www.energyinnovations.com and it will be interesting to follow and see what they come up with.