Mirror, Mirror, on the Sand

Solar project in African desert could supply clean energy to Europe

Posted at 1:12 PM on 04 Dec 2007

A string of gigantic solar generators in the northern African desert could cleanly supply one-sixth of Europe's electricity needs, say backers of a project called Desertec. The project relies on concentrated solar power, in which giant mirrors focus the sun's rays on pillars filled with water, creating steam, which drives turbines, which generate electricity. In the Desertec scheme, about one-third of the power would be transmitted by cables underneath the Mediterranean Sea to Europe, while two-thirds would be used locally. In addition, the stations could be used as desalination plants to provide fresh water to desert countries. The prince of Jordan presented the plan to the European Parliament last week, and is urging the E.U. to front $10 billion for the project. They're reflecting on it. Get it? Reflecting? Har.

source: The Guardian

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Comments: (4 comments)

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Sounds very...ambitious...

The article states that to be fully implemented, it'd take close to 200 billion euros over the next 30 years. While this would be a great project if implemented (and undoubtably give Joradn a great deal of power and wealth), at this point talks seem preliminary and skeptics abound. This may be one of those projects that doesn't get very far.

Still, it'd be great if it did though.

by Tasermons Partner at 3:24 PM on 04 Dec 2007

200 billion euros over 30 years

€200 billion ($290 billion) is what an expanded Renewable Fuels Mandate (to 36 billion gallons a year by 2022), combined with a continuation of the 51 cents per gallon blenders' credit for ethanol (and $1.00 per gallon for biodiesel) would cost the U.S. federal treasury between now and 2030.

And by the end of that period, what would the USA have? A continuing dependence on liquid fuels for transport -- and, most likely, a continuing need for massive subsidies.

These are only my personal opinions.

by Ron Steenblik at 3:50 PM on 04 Dec 2007

Global Energy Network

There is a new "world wide web" emerging right before our eyes. It is a global energy network and, like the internet, it will change our culture, society and how we do business. More importantly, it will alter how we use, transform and exchange energy. For more information, see http://www.terrawatts.com

by hdsolarguy at 6:53 AM on 05 Dec 2007

In the Middle East?

Oh great, instead of war for oil it will be war for sun. Is there no place in Europe for this project?

by bellemichelle at 3:55 AM on 06 Dec 2007

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