The Problem:
Resources: NREL Solar Resources Map:
Assume that we can generate solar energy at 6 W/m2 when the average solar energy generation is 6.5 -7 kWh/m2-d. This represents the data we generated for the Topaz solar site in the central valley in southern California. This calculation should mirror the one you just did for wind.
How much solar power capacity (kW) is available if you use 5% of "your" area?
How much solar energy (kWh) is this for you over an entire year (8760 hrs)?
What percentage of your personal energy needs is this? Be careful -- your previous value is for the entire year.
What is the total solar power capacity of the country if 5% of the US is covered with solar farms?
Are there enough "Oregons" do accomplish this task in the prime solar locations?
We are currently building solar power capacity at about 10-15 GW each year. How many years will it take (at this rate) to cover 5% of the country (the best 5% of course:)?
What feature of the electrical grid (just the grid) currently limits our ability to achieve this goal nationally?
