Solar energy is hot right now, in more ways than one

Research Gate ^ | 11 November 2016 | Katherine Lindemann

[Lorianne]

New research finds solar power plants increase local temperatures, meaning researchers must find ways to bring them back down. ___ Researchers have found that solar power plants raise temperatures in their immediate environments. The study, which appeared in Nature Scientific Reports, revealed that nighttime temperatures over photovoltaic power plants were regularly 3-4 degrees Celsius warmer than in surrounding areas. While these effects are likely offset by the benefits of solar power, lead author Greg Barron-Gafford says it is worth looking at ways to mitigate them. We speak with him about the findings and their implications.

[ChicagahAl]

While these effects are likely offset by the benefits of solar power...

Uh, no.

[Grampa Dave]

One of our engineer/construction younger relatives has been saying this for years:

Solar collection devices increase the temperature over, around and under the collection devices.

So they are contributing to the so called problem of Gorebull warming.

[ctdonath2]

I’ve long contended that once “renewable” power (solar, wind) became viable contenders, environmentalists would condemn them as harmful to the environment.

So here’s an early example. They’re finding that rather than the long-established flora & geology absorbing & disseminating solar energy, large solar arrays stall heat absorption and raise local temperatures. Next they’ll discover that “solar strip mining” sucks all the power away from large areas of flora (disrupting fauna in the process); this becomes serious when one realizes a 1TW power plant is going to take over some 10,000 km^2.

Another case appeared recently: satellite studies of wind farms shows very long trails of turbulence, which of course will disrupt bird migrations and cause other discernible harms.

We need to better categorize professional naysayers, avoiding what they’re pointing at and instead deal with the fact they’re just there to impede progress (while calling themselves “progressives”).

[Mjreagan]

Green energy creates global warming.

Liberals = stupid

[Zathras]

I never thought of this but it would be very logical.
It would have to be a very large array to do it but the on in Spain and CA would clearly do this.

[mountainlion]

But it is an “environmental” way to cook your turkey.

[dancusa]

When I go to Home Depot. The solar energy company salesmen hang out by the exit making their pitch.

I tell them coal, oil and nat gas is cheaper.

It costs more to pay off solar energy installment than the system lasts.

Big scam.

[Truthoverpower]

Solar power is the revolution there is no question about it and solar panels are less than a dollar a white now and technology is the same technology has been for 50 years crystalline silicon you can put a few panels on your roof and never pay for electricity again or operate completely independently of the utility there is no doubt that solar energy is the revolution
If you don’t want to listen to me that’s fine just keep paying utility forever for nothing whatever they want to charge and whatever other fees they want to impose upon you good luck to you

[Mjreagan]

Lol

I happen to think solar is great. I’m also looking forward to the predicted increases in yield per panel/ efficiency. I just enjoy having a go at liberal talking points.

[Ozark Tom]

Thermal island.