Ok, so back on track now. I just wanted to revisit the idea of using the desert environment to generate electricity. I have provided you with papers and information on the subject and now I have a little video to pass on. As we are coming towards the completion of my deserts blog, and coming to the close having discussed humans in deserts and the future of deserts, I would be particularly interested to hear your thoughts on this key issue that is increasingly considered in the world of renerable and alternative energy provision....
Hi Joe- The idea of using the desert environment to generate electricity is a fascinating one. Much has been written concerning the barriers in accelerating decarbonisation of the world economy. What would you consider the key barriers in order to achieve such a transition?
ReplyDeleteHi Jas - I feel there are two particularly notable 'barriers' to solar in deserts. The first critical issue to address is that of dust. As you know, large quantities of dust is generated in desert regions. Dust provides the issue of efficiency - by dirtying the equipment and reducing power generation. In turn, the dirtying of equipment costs money to maintain and ensure maximum generation. Because of this, much investment is being made into producing technologies appropriate for this particularly harsh landscape. The second important point is that of location. Sites have to be found that consider the opportunity cost of, for example, nearby settlements or civilisation, environmental damage, and ecological disruption. In essence, a lengthy cost benefit analysis has to be made regarding the appropriateness of sites. Perhaps the overarching theme here from both points is that significant funds are required to establish such a scheme - from the planning phase, right through to construction, compensation and upkeep.
ReplyDeleteHere are two really interesting reads on the subject from a variety of viewpoints. I thoroughly recommend a read!
ReplyDeletehttp://www.theecologist.org/News/news_analysis/413657/whats_stopping_us_getting_solar_power_from_deserts.html
http://www.theecologist.org/how_to_make_a_difference/climate_change_and_energy/361760/indias_plan_for_a_solar_power_revolution.html