Researchers from the University of Ottawa just proved that a genius move could achieved with a simple solution—put a reflective surfaceThe researchers, in a bid to enhance solar energy harnessing technology, placed “artificial ground reflectors” or highly reflective white surfaces beneath the panels, which increased their energy output by 4.5%.
Though the beginnings of solar technology could be pinpointed back to 1939, it wasn’t until 1954 that Bell Labs created the first solar cell for commercial use. This study published by the University of Ottawa on these artificial ground reflectors is only the beginning of a new international research collaboration between National Renewable Energy Laboratory and the University of Ottawa.The research that Mandy Lewis is currently carrying out at the University of Ottawa has far-reaching benefits. Canada experiences an impressive amount of snow a year—65% of the country is snow-laden for over half a year.