The idea had apparently been around for a while, since 2008 or so, there were other, similar studies. I don't know if they were similarly flawed or not though.
I also would not completely dismiss the premise - trees are probably very good at converting solar energy.
And to add to that, I don't buy the counter argument that a tree arrangement can't be better than a flat panel - why not? The sun moves around so the flat panel might be optimal at one point in the day, but will certainly be sub-optimal at other times. This isn't a clear cut argument at all. There are many variables in play. Cloud cover; seasons; etc. Keep in mind the experiment was done in a cold climate.
I would imaginr that the flat panel could be hooked to a servo and a control loop be used to optimize poiting attitude in real time to compensate for the sun's natural cycle.
Comments
The idea had apparently been around for a while, since 2008 or so, there were other, similar studies. I don't know if they were similarly flawed or not though.
I also would not completely dismiss the premise - trees are probably very good at converting solar energy.
And to add to that, I don't buy the counter argument that a tree arrangement can't be better than a flat panel - why not? The sun moves around so the flat panel might be optimal at one point in the day, but will certainly be sub-optimal at other times. This isn't a clear cut argument at all. There are many variables in play. Cloud cover; seasons; etc. Keep in mind the experiment was done in a cold climate.
I would imaginr that the flat panel could be hooked to a servo and a control loop be used to optimize poiting attitude in real time to compensate for the sun's natural cycle.
This is already extremely common, with significant efficiency gains. As ever, the downside is added complexity and cost.
See https://secure.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/wiki/Solar_tracker