Sunflower Power

Solar panels are most efficient when the sun is shining directly on them. But most solar panels face only one direction throughout the day, meaning they get direct sunlight for only a short time—unless they are motorized, thereby burning some of the energy and defeating the purpose.

But what if solar cells could track the sun like sunflowers do? That bright question was the inspiration for a new polymer that promises to greatly increase solar cell efficiency.

Thin stems made of the new polymer turn toward the sun as the side of the stem facing the light heats up and shrinks. Solar cells mounted on the stems follow the sun all day as it moves across the sky, producing up to four times as much energy as stationary cells.

Our Creator’s excellent designs continue to inspire innovation. We bring him glory when we imitate his designs to improve quality of life for others.

This article was taken from Answers magazine, March–April, 2020, 21.