Can fiber optics be used for solar energy?

Studies have shown that fiber optics can be used in order to achieve a concentration of solar energy. Light can be transmitted through the optical fibers and concentrated in a useful and efficient way of handling solar energy.

Can optical fibers be used in solar thermal concentrating systems?

CONCLUSIONS The major finding of the current analysis is that the use of optical fibers in solar thermal concentrating systems for power generation is feasible, but only under specific circumstances. The main point to watch is minimizing the amount of fibers used in the system, since this is a significant cost driver.

How does a solar power system work?

In order to integrate the power generated from solar panels to the power transmission lines, the power needs to be converted into utility-grade AC power (Figure 1). An inverter is used in the solar energy system to provide AC power, while the transformer increases the voltage to medium/high for connecting to the power transmission lines.

Where can a non-conducting fiber cable be installed?

Non-conducting fiber cables (based on glass fibers or plastics) can be installed where high electric voltages occur. For example, a fiber can transmit power for a current transducer in a high-voltage transmission line. (Note that there are also fiber-optic sensors where no electrical power is needed locally.)

Why is fiber optic cable better than copper wire?

Fiber optics communication can cover longer link distance con- nections compared to copper wire. As the solar farms grow in size, monitoring and controlling all the solar panels requires long link distance connections, which is only possible with fiber optics cable.

What are optical fibers used for?

Optical fibers have a range of commercial applications, notably in communication and lighting. Fibers consist of a coaxial arrangement of a core that serves as the light conduit, a cladding of a lower refractive index to provide internal reflection at the boundary of the core, and an external protective sheet.