Molecular photo-switches enable efficient storage of solar thermal energy for later use
India is rapidly expanding its solar energy capacity, but traditional solar panels only generate electricity during the day. Researchers at the University of California, Santa Barbara, have developed molecular photo-switches (MOST) to store solar thermal energy in molecular form for later use. These molecules, like 2-pyrimidone, isomerize into a different shape (Dewar pyrimidone) upon absorbing sunlight, storing energy that can be released as heat when needed. This technology offers a practical tool for storing heat for applications like water heating and cooking, potentially making India greener by overcoming the intermittency of solar power.
Key Points
- India is significantly increasing its solar energy capacity through rooftop and land-based installations.
- A new research focuses on molecular photo-switches (MOST) to store solar thermal energy, addressing the intermittency of solar power.
- Molecules like 2-pyrimidone absorb solar light and convert into an isomer (Dewar pyrimidone), storing thermal energy.
- This stored energy can be released as heat for various applications, including water heating and cooking.
- The technology has the potential to enhance India's green energy initiatives by providing efficient energy storage.
Exam Facts
- India's rooftop solar capacity is 23 gigawatt (GW), and land-based solar panels generate about 150 GW.
- The 'Surya Ghar Mufti Bijili Yojana' offers subsidies for home solar panel installations.
- Researchers at the University of California, Santa Barbara, developed molecular photo-switches (MOST).
- The molecule 2-pyrimidone switches to Dewar pyrimidone, releasing 1.65 million joules per kg of MOST molecules.
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