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Google Developing Cheaper Mirror Technology for Solar Panels

by Warren Riddle on September 11, 2009 at 10:38 AM

In 2007, Google announced that it was delving into scientific research, specifically the investigation and development of viable green energy sources. According to Reuters, the world's biggest brand is particularly interested in solar power and the development of cheaper and more efficient panel mirrors, which harvest heat and energy from the sun.

Google is looking to cut current mirror costs by at least one half, and hopes to eventually make the new technology even cheaper. These mirrors would potentially be used in the construction of solar thermal plants, which -- with the improved panels -- could cost 25-percent less to build. Results from current research reportedly won't be ready for at least a few months, though. Google still has to perform extensive testing on the durability and longevity of its current technology in order to ensure that the mirrors can withstand harsh weather conditions.

Speaking with Reuters, Google's Bill Weihl trumpeted the company's discoveries, but lamented the lack of government-funded scientific research and the dearth of other companies that are currently providing innovative green ideas. Perhaps Google isn't looking hard enough. There are some brilliant kids, from all over the world, devising ingenious methods of lowering green energy costs, and they're doing it without coffers full of billions of dollars. [From: Reuters]

Tags: energy, google, green, solar panels, solar power, solar thermal, SolarPanels, SolarPower, SolarThermal, top

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