Elon says US can be powered by Solar - HOW?

The Sun’s power is indeed massive, and capturing even a tiny fraction could easily power the United States. However, capturing and converting solar energy on this scale involves optimizing location, technology, and infrastructure to handle and distribute the energy efficiently.

1. Best Locations for Solar Energy in the U.S.

Southwest States: The southwestern U.S.—including Arizona, Nevada, California, New Mexico, and parts of Texas—receives some of the most consistent and intense sunlight in the country. The solar irradiance (amount of sunlight hitting the ground) here can exceed 6.5 kWh/m² per day.

Deserts: Large, sparsely populated deserts, such as the Mojave Desert, are ideal. They offer vast open spaces with high sun exposure, low humidity, and minimal cloud cover. For example, California's Ivanpah Solar Electric Generating System is already harnessing solar energy in the Mojave.

2. Types of Solar Technology to Capture Energy

Photovoltaic (PV) Solar Panels: Traditional solar panels directly convert sunlight into electricity and can be scaled up with large arrays, like those in solar farms.

Concentrated Solar Power (CSP): CSP systems use mirrors to focus sunlight onto a small area, heating a fluid to drive turbines that produce electricity. CSP plants work well in locations with intense sunlight and can store heat for energy generation at night, enhancing reliability.

Thin-Film and Bifacial Solar Panels: Advanced thin-film panels and bifacial solar panels can generate electricity from both sides and are more efficient in diffuse light conditions. They are also lighter and may be more suitable for certain types of installations.

3. Scaling for National Power Needs

To power the U.S., which consumes about 4,000 terawatt-hours (TWh) per year, it’s estimated that 450,000–500,000 MW of installed solar capacity would be needed (roughly 10% of the sunlight falling on 0.6% of U.S. land area).

For example, Solar Star (one of the largest solar farms in California) has a capacity of 579 MW across 3,200 acres, enough to power around 255,000 homes.

4. Infrastructure and Energy Storage

Grid Upgrades: The U.S. grid would need upgrades to handle the variability of solar power. This includes smart grid technologies for efficient energy distribution and high-voltage transmission lines to move solar power from sunny locations to areas with less sunlight.

Energy Storage Solutions: Battery storage, pumped hydro, and thermal storage are essential for balancing supply with demand, particularly during cloudy days or nighttime.

5. Future Innovations for Enhanced Solar Capture

Perovskite Solar Cells: These new materials promise even higher efficiency and lower costs than traditional silicon panels.

Floating Solar Farms: These "photovoltaics" can be placed on reservoirs, reducing evaporation and using otherwise unused space. Successful projects are already operating in California.

Space-Based Solar Power (SBSP): Though still experimental, SBSP would involve capturing solar energy in space (where sunlight is constant) and beaming it back to Earth via microwaves or lasers.

By expanding solar farms in the U.S. Southwest, integrating advanced technologies, and improving storage, the U.S. could theoretically capture enough solar energy to meet and even exceed its total energy needs. With strategic deployment and efficient storage, solar could indeed become a cornerstone of American energy independence.