Hybrid Solar Energy: An Intriguing Thought Experiment in Solar Power

Solar energy has made great strides and movement as an alternative energy source and as the technology continues to evolve and expand, this trend is likely to continue. One interesting direction that this thought process has led to is with what is called "hybrid solar energy."

Hybrid solar energy is named as such because instead of turning sunlight directly into electrical power before providing direct electricity, as most solar panels do, hybrid solar energy actually uses a combination of conversion, but also directly uses the natural light in an attempt to be more efficient.

Basically, hybrid solar lighting collects sunlight, and then proceeds to "funnel" and rout it through conventional optical fibers into buildings where that light is actually combined with electric light in special hybrid solar light fixtures. This direct routing of sunlight in theory makes the solar energy far more efficient, since not all of the energy has to be converted into electricity before being funneled forward.

Sensors are placed in the room and along with the solar lighting light fixtures to monitor how much light is actually in the room and those sensors measure and maintain a constant level of light by adjusting the electric portion of the lights. When there is more sunlight, far less electricity is used. When it's darker, more electricity is used. This combination of normal electric and direct solar energy is why this type of lighting is considered a hybrid, as it mixes the two in an efficient manner.

Through this technology, bright sunlight can actually be funneled directly to the light fixture, making electrical conversion completely unnecessary. The solar efficiency of this is very attractive, and this technology continues to gain support and interest from both private companies, as well as the Department of Energy.

Maybe most importantly, the idea and development of hybrid solar energy shows an open mindedness and creativity that bodes well for the future of the entire solar energy industry.