PV Gap

Audrey Said:

Do solar panels in space produce more energy than panels on earth? (per area) How much more?

We Answered:

You're quite right, the amount of solar energy outside our atmosphere is much more than at the surface.
No atmosphere to filter out some of the radiation, no clouds or pollution to reduce the amount of energy.

Leading edge multi-junction cells are capable of nearly 29% efficiency under ideal conditions for spacecraft.
On the surface, current sunlight conversion rates (module efficiencies) can vary from 5-18% in commercial production.

Douglas Said:

What are some methods of storing unused energy from solar panels?

We Answered:

- Batteries.

- Use it to pump water up that can be later used to drive a turbine.

- Use it to generate hydrogen that can later be used in a fuel cell.

Alexander Said:

How much energy do we save when we use light energy from solar panels?

We Answered:

Tons & tons