Solar One solar power station in Nevada

Opened in mid 2007, the Solar One solar power station in Nevada produces enough energy each year to power 15,000 US households! Unlike photo voltaic solar production, this facility uses heat exchange to create steam and run traditional power turbines. Aluminum parabolas focus sunlight to create heat intensity that is eighty times what the direct sunlight is capable of. This super heated oil travels through pipes next to water which creates steam and powers turbines. This is a great way to harness the sun's power without the need for silicon or solar chips, you just need a lot of aluminum.

With solutions like this it may not be necessary for individual households to partake in solar energy production. This project runs much more efficiently than a spread out network of small installations. It's easier to clean, service, and monitor but does lose some efficiency in transporting the electricity into far away towns. There is still some need for a sun independent power source for night time use. Perhaps a worldwide network of solar installations which could efficiently transport electricity into dark locations? As battery technology improves there will be less need for dirty energy, but the use of nickel (which is used newer batteries such as those of the Toyota Prius) still poses a threat to environmental sustainability and balance.