In our modern world one of our current dilemmas is how to create clean, sustainable, and efficient energy. While there are several methods to do so, one of the most promising options is the use of solar energy. Right now only about one tenth percent of the worlds energy is captured through solar technologies. Some scientist believe that the amount of energy expended to the Earth from the sun in one hour could satisfy the worlds needs for a year if captured. Solar energy is captured heat and light from the sun through passive and active solar technology. A passive collector would be something you would see attached to a building or home and a active collector would be something seen in a field or solar farm.

There are many developed countries around the world trying to innovate or put research into solar energy. For example, on March 21st, 2012 in Boulder City, Nevada President Obama announced that he will “double down” in funding for solar energy efforts. He continued his announcement adding that he plans to open a solar power plant there and that it’s just one of the ways he plans to bring about the movement of clean and efficient renewable energy. The purchasing of solar energy technologies has shown an increase by US consumers. Also, through innovation and research from Solar Energy USA and others the price of solar technologies is decreasing. In another case outside of the US a solar boat, funded by a German entrepreneur, departed from Monaco. The ship plans to collect renewable energy while it sets course to travel across the globe. In China, they are leading in solar water heating technologies for residential uses. Germany is a leading contender in solar technologies. They have the record for most solar energy captured per hour and have put a good amount of funding towards solar energy research. One more example is that of Japan. They are currently positioned to move up the ladder of solar energy leaders through a large increase in solar energy funding. With the right plan they are projected to surpass Italy, which is currently the second most leading solar energy producer.

A few notable innovations in solar energy technologies have been made as of recent. One being the creation of thin solar collecting film that takes a way the restrictions that come with large solar panels. Another cool innovation is the creation of solar windows that capture the sun energy through small solar cells. There has been other advancements made by the creation of a solar balloon, which basically is a blimp absorbing solar energy through solar cells. 

Sources:

– http://sites.suffolk.edu/pierpaolo19/2012/10/20/solar-energy-efforts-around-the-world-and-the-wisdom-of-clean-energy-subsidies-in-general/

– http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2012/03/21/president-obama-doubles-down-on-efforts-to-boost-solar-industry/

– http://www.howstuffworks.com/environmental/energy/6-innovations-solar-power.htm#page=3