A series of colorful solar facades and photovoltaic murals give the SunRise tower in Alberta, Canada, renewable energy. Once an aging, 12-story residential building, the retrofit by Mitrex with murals by indigenous artist Lance Cardinal can help reduce carbon emissions by using the building-integrated photovoltaics. These are solar panels that don’t look like the regular ones with a bluish tint. Instead, they resemble tiles or panels, with the energy-absorbing technology hiding underneath them. 

The building-integrated solar facades and photovoltaic murals in Alberta, Canada, work as the sunlight hits the surface of the panels. During the retrofit, the company made sure that the system was large enough to meet the energy goals of the project, so they improved the original plan, which was only for a 60 kW system, and increased it to 267 kW. That big jump can help the building exceed the 50 percent carbon reduction target.

all images courtesy of Mitrex

solar facades and photovoltaic murals in alberta, canada

The colorful solar facades and photovoltaic murals outside of the SunRise tower in Alberta, Canada, double as street art. The building-integrated panels come in a mosaic of granite tones and bright orange, yellow, blue, and purple accents. The murals are found on the northern wall of the building, standing tall at 85 feet, by the Edmonton-based Indigenous artist Lance Cardinal. These photovoltaic murals next to the solar facades in Alberta, Canada, are a tribute to First Nations and Chinese cultures, which are part of the history of the area. It is dubbed the world’s largest BIPV mural, and at the time of publishing, it is being officially recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records. The system is not painted but built directly into the solar panel system. 

Mitrex and the building team, including the architect MBC Group and the contractor Chandos Development, worked carefully to make sure the project would be realized. Before the renovation, the energy company studied the aging building’s needs, created energy models, tested panel colors, and planned a rainscreen system to keep the building safe from different weather conditions. In the end, Mitrex’s solar facades and photovoltaic murals were installed on all four sides of the building in Alberta, Canada (the murals being on the northern wall). The total system is 267 kilowatts, enough to create around 180,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of energy per year, and it is equal to the amount of power used by 23 homes in one year.

these solar facades and murals in Canada resemble tiles or panels with the energy-absorbing technology

they cover the four sides of the building

construction view of the solar facades and murals of SunRise tower in Canada

the retrofit by Mitrex with murals by indigenous artist Lance Cardinal can help reduce carbon emissions

view of the the retrofit by Mitrex with murals by indigenous artist Lance Cardinal

project info:

name: SunRise Retrofit

company: Mitrex | @mitrex_solar

artist: Lance Cardinal | @lancecardinal75

architect: MBC Group

contractor: Chandos Development | @chandosltd

location: Edmonton, Alberta, Canada 

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MVRDV‘s solar panel-clad Sun Rock has topped out at the Changhua Coastal Industrial Park in Taiwan, revealing a presence that feels like both architecture and landscape. Designed for Taipower, the state-owned utility company, the operations storage facility is set to play a major role in Taiwan’s renewable energy transition, expressing its purpose through form and material. On site, the building appears to absorb sunlight from every angle, expressing its function through a geometry tailored for efficiency. The design for Sun Rock was first unveiled in January 2022 — see designboom’s previous coverage here.

The Sun Rock responds directly to its solar-rich context with a rounded, domed silhouette that shifts in profile from north to south. This gradient is intentional. MVRDV has sculpted the building to catch early and late light with its northern dome while the southern slope captures the more intense midday sun. This way, the structure stands as an instrument calibrated to its environment.

Sun Rock tops out in Taiwan to reveal its full solar-oriented form | images © Reiju Construction Co, Ltd.

Orientation as Strategy

The architects at MVRDV design Taiwan’s Sun Rock to feature a facade whose geometry is informed by the needs of solar collection. Each pleat serves as both a mounting surface for photovoltaic panels and a modulation of light and shadow. These pleats vary in angle, a subtle optimization that allows the panels to operate at peak efficiency throughout the day. Interwoven among them, windows are placed with discretion, maintaining internal function without compromising energy gain.

The structure is expected to generate close to one million kilowatt-hours of energy annually, enough to render it entirely self-sufficient. But the building’s ambition extends further. With additional PV coverage under consideration, it could reach an output of 1.7 million kWh per year, contributing excess energy to the grid and underlining the building’s identity as both infrastructure and resource.

the building supports Taipower’s green energy transition

sun rock shaped by A solar Surface

The Sun Rock will function as an active part of Taipower’s operations, with workshops, offices, and equipment storage. However, its expressive exterior elevates it into something symbolic. MVRDV co-founder Winy Maas elaborates: ‘We cladded the entire facade with photovoltaics… allowing the building to become a tool of energy production.’ The building is both a generator and a generator’s home, making visible the systems it supports.

Overall, it integrates over 4,000 square meters of photovoltaic panels into its curved facade, each one oriented with intention. This design, as MVRDV notes, is about pushing the potential of every surface. The result is an active skin, an architecture tuned to performance without sacrificing visual impact.

a rounded form is designed to maximize solar exposure throughout the day

its facade is covered in photovoltaic panels angled for optimal energy generation

the structure is expected to produce nearly one million kilowatt-hours of energy annually

project info:

project title: Sun Rock

architecture: MVRDV | @mvrdv
location: Changhua County, Taiwan
founding partner in charge: Winy Maas
partner: Wenchian Shi
design team: Hui-Hsin Liao, Daniel Diez, Mirco Facchinelli, Carolina Martin Peñuela, Chi-yi Liao, Tseng-hsuan Wei
MVRDV next: Yayun Liu

client: Taipower 

images: © Reiju Construction Co, Ltd.

co-architect: Y.C. Hsu Architect & Associates
contractor: Reiju Construction Co., Ltd.
structural engineer: Chih-hung Kao Structural Engineer & Associates
MEP: Chia Feng Mechanical & Electrical Corp.

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During Milan Design Week 2025, BIG–Bjarke Ingels Group tops out CityWave, a 140-meter-long solar canopy in Milan’s CityLife district—set to become one of the world’s largest urban rooftop photovoltaic installations. Spanning two new courtyard office buildings, the sweeping timber and steel structure crowns the final phase of the CityLife masterplan, designed in collaboration with Atelier Verticale. designboom was on-site to attend the historic topping-out ceremony, witnessing the milestone in sustainable architecture.

Clad entirely in solar tiles and shaped as a catenary curve, the canopy quietly commands attention while signaling a new era of climate-conscious architecture at the heart of the ambitious redevelopment of the Italian city. ‘What we have attempted here is to resist the temptation to add yet another tower to the already majestic urban ensemble of CityLife, and rather create a truly inviting urban space as a gateway to this new neighborhood,’ shares Bjarke Ingels. ‘The solar roof of the timber canopy uniting the two buildings provides shade and shelter for the life of the city, and serves as an urban gesture of environmental and social performance.’

Set for completion in 2026, CityWave departs from the expected verticality of a skyline defined by towers by Hadid, Isozaki, and Libeskind. Instead of building up, BIG builds across. Their proposal—winner of an international competition by Generali Real Estate—replaces the idea of twin towers with two mid-rise volumes, united by a dramatic canopy of tensioned steel cables and engineered timber. The 73,000-square-meter project reclaims the ground plane with a pedestrian plaza at its heart and layers of greenery that integrate into the wider CityLife public park. 

all images by Alberto Fanelli, unless stated otherwise

A Solar Canopy Inspired by Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Danish architect Bjarke Ingels describes the intervention as a ’21st-century interpretation of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II,’ referencing Milan’s historic love of grand public spaces. Apart from being a nod to heritage, the timber canopy is also a powerhouse of environmental performance. With WiredScore Platinum, WELL Platinum, and LEED Platinum pre-certifications, CityWave is Italy’s first office project to hit all three. Passive cooling, thermal energy storage, and groundwater systems reduce energy use by up to 40% compared to similar buildings, while the solar canopy maximizes onsite energy production, turning architecture into infrastructure.

From its colonnade of slender steel columns to the upcycled stone facades referencing Milanese masonry, every gesture in CityWave is calibrated for openness and continuity. The two buildings—rising to 105 and 53 meters—frame 4,500 square meters of shaded outdoor loggias, stepped terraces, and internal courtyards. Natural ventilation flows through the structure, culminating in a rooftop bar and panoramic terrace with sweeping views toward Monte Rosa. ‘Rather than proposing two towers’ says BIG partner Lorenzo Boddi, ‘we envision two courtyard buildings defined not by their height, but by connection.’ 

the 140-meter-long solar canopy is set to become one of the world’s largest urban rooftop photovoltaic installations

the sweeping timber and steel structure crowns the final phase of the CityLife masterplan | image © designboom

designed in collaboration with Atelier Verticale

BIG replaces the idea of twin towers with two mid-rise volumes

CityWave departs from the expected verticality of the skyline | image courtesy of Beauty and The Bit

a canopy of tensioned steel cables and engineered timber unites the towers | image courtesy of Beauty and The Bit

every gesture in CityWave is calibrated for openness and continuity | image courtesy of BIG

the project reclaims the ground plane with a pedestrian plaza at its heart | image courtesy of Beauty and The Bit

the timber canopy is a powerhouse of environmental performance | image courtesy of Beauty and The Bit

layers of greenery integrate into the CityLife park | image courtesy of Beauty and The Bit

project info:

name: CityWave

architect: BIG – Bjarke Ingels Group | @big_builds

location: Milan, Italy

area: 73,000 square meters

client: Generali Real Estate

partners-in-charge: Bjarke Ingels, Andreas Klok Pedersen, Lorenzo Boddi

project architect: Marina Cogliani

technical director: Andy Young

collaborators: Atelier Verticale, Manens, Holzner Bertagnolli, Faces, Castiglioni, GAD, AGEP, Systematica, Studio Mistretta & Co

engineering: BIG Engineering (Andy Coward, Bjarke Koch-Orvad, Duncan Horswill, Jonathan Russell, Miles Treacy, Timo Harboe Nielsen)

landscape: BIG Landscape (Carmen Simone, Giulia Frittoli, Kay Sasiprapakul, Ulla Hornsyld)

project team: Air Walanchanurak, Aishe Kokoshi, Andra Tai, Andrew McClements, Ania Agnieszka Podlaszewska, Anna Pazurek, Beatrice Melli, Camille Breuil, Carl Pettersson, Carmen Salas Ruiz, Chris Falla, Claire Thomas Spiller, Daniel Ferrara Bilesky, Elisabetta Costa, Evan Cheng, Filip Radu, Florencia Kratsman, Francesca Portesine, Gianmarco Cannizzo, Giulio Rigoni, Gualtiero Rulli, Hannah Kopeliovitch Simons, Ioannis Gio, Jakob Freek Engstrom, Jason Chee Han Chia, Kamila Abbiazova, Laura Faloughi, Lauren Connell Falla, Liliana Prevedello, Luca Vincenzo Puzzoni, Maayan Raviv, Marco Antonio Maycotte, Maria de Salvador Arnaiz, Marjan Mostavi, Matilde Tavanti, Michela Cardia, Miles Casalotti-Lochore, Ming Cheong, Nefeli Stamatari, Parinaz Kadkhodayi-Kholghi, Pernille Kinch Andersen, Pierre-Edouard Joseph Joiris de Caussin, Ryohei Koike, Sabina Blasiotti, Sijia Zhong, Sigi Emily Chen, Solveig Lola Audrey Jappy, Vincent Katienin Konate, William Campion, Youngjin Jun, Yueying Wan, Zuzanna Hanna Sliwinska

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Toyota Motor Europe unveils the concept microcar FT-Me with a solar panel on the roof to power its battery without stopping for a charger. This extra energy source can generate 20 to 30 kilometers of additional range per day. In this way, there’s minimal need for external charging and even daily usage. Aside from that, the Toyota microcar with solar panel roof is lightweight and features an efficient propulsion system. The latter allows the concept vehicle to consume ‘three times less energy per kilometer than a high-capacity battery electric car,’ the company says.

The FT-Me is suitable for individuals with entry-level driving licenses. In some countries then, drivers as young as 14 years old can take the concept electric Toyota microcar with a solar panel roof on a city getaway. The interiors are modular and customizable as well. In fact, the passenger seat can fold down and offer more storage space for a wheelchair to fit in. The large windows allow for 360-degree visibility, so the driver can see what’s happening around them as they go. The vehicle also integrates connectivity. In this way, the driver can pair their smartphone and use it to enter the vehicle without needing a physical key.

all images courtesy of Toyota Motor Europe

Concept vehicle that occupies only half a parking space

The all-electric microcar FT-Me of Toyota Motor Europe is ideal for congested and urban areas. It accommodates two people, including the driver, and measures less than two and a half meters in length. The company says it’s easy to maneuver, especially in dense environments. It also occupies only half a parking space and can fit into a third of a space when perpendicular parking is available. The frame of the Toyota microcar with solar panel roof is geometric. In fact, the team draws its design from a jet helmet, hence having a black and white bi-tone exterior.

The styling choice lets the concept vehicle be visible on the road, even at night. Inside, the FT-Me maximizes the available space within its compact frame. The layout is designed for efficiency, ensuring ease of movement and intuitive access to controls. Toyota Motor Europe says it builds the concept microcar with solar panel roof on the company’s mobility solutions. These are the ones they developed for the Tokyo 2021 and Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games. They aim to meet the changing needs of city residents with a compact, efficient, and accessible mode of transport. So far, the Toyota FT-Me microcar with solar panel roof is still a concept vehicle.

rear view of the concept vehicle

Toyota Motor Europe unveils the concept microcar FT-Me

the design team draws the design from a jet helmet, hence having a black and white bi-tone exterior

the concept microcar FT-Me has a solar panel on the roof to power its battery

detailed view of the wheels with a bi-tone color scheme

custome side panels are available

the concept vehicle is lightweight and features an efficient propulsion system

the FT-Me is suitable for individuals with entry-level driving licenses

inside, the FT-Me maximizes the available space within its compact frame

the front seat can fold down for extra space

project info:

name: FT-Me

company: Toyota | @toyota.europe

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Researchers from the University of Sheffield and Power Roll develop flexible solar cells for rooftops and surfaces using plastic film with a solution processable semiconductor. The byproduct aims to replace fossil fuels with energy harvested from the sun. For these flexible solar cells, the researchers use plastic film filled with the perovskite material synthesized in the laboratory. It’s a mineral semiconductor often used in similar projects because of their efficiency in converting light to electricity.

Once filled with perovskite, the researchers create small indentations on the plastic film filled with solar cells. These ‘tiny grooves’ allow the invention to capture more sunlight, making it easier for them to convert it into electricity. Since these thin solar cells are inside plastic films, they can bend and follow the shape of any surfaces. Users can also install them onto other unconventional surfaces that could not normally stand the weight of solar panels.

all images courtesy of Power Roll and University of Sheffield

front surface of the material absorbs more sunlight

Researchers from the University of Sheffield and the company Power Roll say that traditional solar cells are made by stacking multiple layers and not with plastic film. Their design bears electrical contacts both on the front and the back. It’s different from the ones they’ve developed because the electric contacts are only present on the back. They believe the approach is more efficient because the front surface absorbs more sunlight. After developing the solar cells in plastic film, the researchers use an advanced microscope called a Hard X-ray nanoprobe.

The machine studies the invention’s structure and material composition. It is located at the Diamond Light Source in Oxfordshire, and it captures detailed images of what’s inside the solar cells, allowing the researchers to examine the material’s tiny flaws, empty spaces, and boundaries between microscopic crystals. The next phase for the researchers is to develop the use of X-ray microscopy in characterizing these solar cells in plastic film. So far, new experiments take place in the summer of 2025 at the Diamond Light Source to conduct device operation and stability.

researchers develop the invention for rooftops and surfaces

the researchers use plastic film filled with the perovskite material instead of silicon

since the invention is flexible, they can bend and follow the shape of any surfaces

the small indentations on the film allow the invention to capture more sunlight

the electric contacts of the invention are only present on the back

new experiments take place in the summer of 2025

project info:

name: Solar cells

institutions: University of Sheffield, Power Roll | @theuniversityofsheffield

study: here

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Aptera Motors announces the completion of the real-world test of its solar electric vehicle in the Mojave Desert in California. On February 28th, 2025, the team shares the news, which marks a milestone for the production-intent model of the solar electric vehicle. After this phase, they plan to conduct a few more rigorous tests to monitor and check the vehicle’s aerodynamics and solar charging capabilities before moving to the production stage. The Mojave Desert run follows the solar electric vehicle’s test in Aptera’s workshop in San Diego, California.

In the most recent phase, the team measures the car’s aerodynamic, rolling, and powertrain losses. The company says that coastdown testing is a widely used industry method to check how efficiently a vehicle moves through the air and along the road. They say that the solar electric vehicle takes over three minutes to decelerate from 60 mph to a complete stop, even while traveling uphill. Based on their calculations, ‘this coastdown distance is significantly more than any other vehicle on the road today, gas or electric,’ the company adds.

all images courtesy of Aptera Motors

next validation vehicle already in development

After the distance check, Aptera conducts aerodynamic tuft testing for the solar electric vehicle, which is a technique manufacturers use to visualize how the air flows through the car. The team applies tuts to the wheel fairings and the vehicle gaps. After testing, they say they’ve confirmed that real-world airflow matched Aptera’s extensive computer simulations. It allows engineers to fine-tune the fittings and finishings of the solar panel-surfaced car. Then, the Aptera team performs an extended highway-drive-cycle test. They take the solar electric vehicle for hundreds of miles to monitor its  energy consumption. 

From this, the team validates that their ‘mathematical simulation model predicts real-world efficiency within just a few percent, a major validation of the vehicle’s aerodynamics, drivetrain, and overall design.’ Aptera’s next validation solar electric vehicle is already in development. Here, they refine key areas such as better fit and flush around gaps of the vehicle and a design-intent weight profile using optimized parts. Once complete, the team expects to return to the track for another round of rigorous testing, which includes driving from a fully charged battery to zero percent.

Aptera Motors announces the completion of the real-world test of its solar electric vehicle in the Mojave Desert

after this phase, the engineers plan to conduct a few more rigorous tests

the team measures the car’s aerodynamic, rolling, and powertrain losses

during the test, the vehicle takes over three minutes to decelerate from 60 mph to a complete stop

the company also conducts aerodynamic tuft testing for the three-wheeled car

so far, the next validation solar electric vehicle is already in development

project info:

name: Solar electric vehicle test

company: Aptera Motors | @aptera_motors

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Airstream introduces its first fully electric travel trailer, the Basecamp Xe, which runs on solar power and batteries. Suitable for off-grid camping, the aluminum mobile unit comes with a 3,000-watt inverter that generates electricity to all outlets. On the surface of the vehicle lie 600-watt solar panels that harvest energy directly from the sun. The fully electric travel trailer features a 10.3 kWh lithium battery bank that powers up the appliances in the vehicle.

There’s even what the company describes as a Truma Combi Eco Plus system. It combines the water heater and furnace functions and can operate on multiple fuel settings, including all-electric, all propane, or a mix of both. The company adds a small, hitch-mounted propane tank to the fully electric travel trailer as well. With this, travelers can set up their outdoor grill while treating the tank as backup fuel for the furnace and the hot-water heater.

all images courtesy of Airstream

Configurable interiors with benches that turn into bed

For the interiors of the fully electric travel trailer, Airstream makes Basecamp Xe configurable. There are two benches that seat up to five people and span the inside of the rear door. Travelers can turn this space into their remote workstation as well. There’s an ethernet Smart Plug port on the exterior that connects to satellite internet providers. At the end of the day, these benches convert into a bed for two, covering the whole rear of the fully electric travel trailer. If wanted, the travelers can also just unfold one bench to create a single bed and retain the other seating.

The Airstream Basecamp Xe comes with a U-shaped small dining space that can accommodate up to four people with ‘room to spare,’ the company says. The design team makes the tabletop swivel-ready, so it rotates without bumping into anyone sitting around the dinette. It allows for easy entry and exit, especially for those sitting in the middle of the bench. For storage, the company says there’s a large hidden rear door that acts like one. The configurable living space of the fully electric travel trailer also opens up to plenty of space in the center aisle. In this way, the traveler can bring their gear and equipment, especially the ones they want to use for outdoor sports.

Airstream introduces its first fully electric travel trailer, the Basecamp Xe

towable with a variety of midsize SUVs

In the galley of the fully electric travel trailer, Airstream adds a single-burner induction cooktop that’s also portable and removable. With this, travelers can use it for outdoor cooking. The sink features a cutting board cover that expands prep space, an optional microwave, and a 12V fridge with freeze. There’s also extra storage for utensils and pantry items. Airstream says the Basecamp Xe is easily towable with a variety of midsize SUVs because it is lightweight. The fully electric travel trailer comes with large wheels to weather different road conditions as well as side skirts and wheel flares to help prevent gravel and debris from damaging the vehicle.

The Basecamp Xe features a standard 3-inch lift, rugged tires, and black protective-coated aluminum stone guards for extra protection against brush and branches while on the road. Just like Airstream’s other travel trailer, the fully electric Basecamp Xe has an aluminum superstructure. Its aerodynamic body and roof profile help increase its fuel efficiency. Then, panoramic windows clad the front parts of the model, so travelers can see the outside as the cruise.

the towable vehicle runs on solar power and batteries for off-grid camping

there are two benches inside that seat up to five people and span the inside of the rear door

these benches unfold into a two-people bed

the Airstream Basecamp Xe comes with a U-shaped small dining space

the aluminum mobile unit comes with a 3,000-watt inverter that generates electricity

panoramic windows clad the front parts of the model

rear view of the towable trailer

the model has an aluminum superstructure

project info:

name: Basecamp Xe

company: Airstream | @airstream_inc

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At MWC 2025, Lenovo introduces its solar-powered Yoga PC concept that charges itself by directly absorbing sunlight. The Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025, a major wireless technology trade show, runs between March 3rd and 6th, 2025 in Barcelona. It is here that Lenovo brings what it calls the Solar Yoga PC. At the back of the device lie several solar cells. They come with the company’s Back Contact Cell technology. It basically moves mounting brackets and gridlines to the back of the solar cells to maximize the active absorption of sunlight.

The technology operates alongside the Dynamic Solar Tracking system, which constantly measures the solar panel’s current and voltage. Then there’s the Solar-First Energy system. It automatically adjusts the charger settings of the Lenovo solar-powered PC to prioritize transferring and converting the harvested energy into the device. The system saves the energy use of the PC as well as the continuous absorption of natural light even in low-light conditions.

all images courtesy of Lenovo

Laptop that converts direct sunlight in 20 minutes

Lenovo says its solar-powered Yoga PC still generates energy even in conditions with minimal lighting. It allows the device to sustain its battery charge when it is in idle mode. While the device is still a concept, the company says that its solar panel features an over 24 percent conversion rate, which it believes is one of the highest in the industry. 

So far, the Lenovo solar-powered PC can absorb and convert enough direct sunlight in 20 minutes. This means it can power itself up to one hour of video playback on the device. The design team makes the computer 15 mm thin and just 1.22 kilos to make it slim and lightweight, so users can bring it anywhere. The company adds that because of these features, the Lenovo device ‘is the world’s first ultraslim solar-powered PC.’

at MWC 2025, Lenovo introduces its solar-powered Yoga PC concept

at the back of the device lie several solar cells

the Solar-First Energy system automatically adjusts the charger settings of the device

the solar-first energy system saves the energy use of the PC as well

the device can absorb and convert enough direct sunlight in 20 minutes

so far, the device is still a concept

project info:

name: Yoga Solar PC

company: Lenovo | @lenovo

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China gears up to develop solar power stations in space that can transfer the sun’s energy in the orbit back to the ground on Earth. It draws from the idea of space-based solar power. The European Space Agency says it’s a concept where satellites in orbit capture solar energy using photovoltaic cells and send it back to earth wirelessly. This energy is converted into microwaves on their way to the planet. On Earth, rectifying antennas catch these microwaves using receiver stations. From there, they convert them into electricity.

It’s the senior rocket scientist Long Lehao, who is also a member of the Chinese Academy of Engineering (CAE), who details China’s plan for the solar power stations in space. During a lecture he gave back in October 2024 at the academy, he said that he and his teams are working on the project at the moment. He likens it to the Three Gorges Dam in Yangtze River, China, dubbed the largest and most powerful hydroelectric project in the world. In this case, the dam is an equivalent of the solar power stations in space, 36,000km or 22,370 miles above the Earth.

ISS solar array with the Earth in the background as seen by the Expedition 36 crew | all image courtesys of NASA/JSC, unless stated otherwise | photo by Dr. Karen Nyberg

1-kilometer-wide solar array along the geostationary orbit

China’s plan is to install a solar array that’s 1 kilometer wide along the 36,000 km geostationary orbit, according to the South China Morning Post report. These solar power stations in space can capture energy from the sun without interference from seasonal changes or day-and-night cycles. Because of this, it’s very likely that the collection and transfer of natural energy from the sun to Earth is consistent and continuous. The report also adds that the energy density is much higher in space. With this in mind, harnessing the natural energy may not be an issue.

These solar power stations in space could capture energy ten times more effectively than photovoltaic panels on Earth, a news story by Global Construction Review notes. Like the Space-Based Solar Power concept, this collected energy is then converted into microwaves. Here on Earth, the receivers take them. Then, they transform them into electricity, so users and households can use them to power up appliances, devices, and more. At the moment, the project is underway. Scientist Long Lehao adds that the country plans to use ‘super-heavy’ rockets to carry the solar power stations to space. As soon as they’re there, the team sets them up for use. 

view of golden solar array with Earth in the background taken by the Expedition 49 crew | photo by Kate Rubins

solar arrays on the ISS on Feb. 12, 2015 | photo by Samantha Cristoforetti, courtesy of ESA/NASA

china gears up to develop solar power stations in space | photo by SpaceX, courtesy of Pexels

the project could capture energy more effectively than photovoltaic panels | photo by Pixabay, courtesy of Pexels

project info:

name: Solar power stations

institution: Chinese Academy of Engineering (CAE) 

scientist: Long Lehao

photographers: Dr. Karen Nyberg, Kate Rubins, Samantha Cristoforetti | @astrokarenn, @astro_kathleen_rubins, @astro_samantha68

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Aptera unveils the production-ready version of its solar electric car with three wheels during CES 2025 in Las Vegas. Between January 7th and 10th, visitors to the trade event have the chance to see the vehicle with solar cells cladding its surface. Before the reveal, the motors company has already completed the first set of drive tests for the solar electric car, as well as its durability using Pininfarina’s wind tunnel. The end goal is for Aptera to deliver their green-powered, zero-emission vehicle as a fully functional ride adapted for road driving. 

During CES 2025, Aptera shares that the dubbed first electric car covered with solar panels can offer drivers up to 400 miles of range from a single charge in under an hour. It can also cruise for up to 40 miles of free driving per day, powered only by sunlight. For drivers living in cities or places with year-round sunny climates, Aptera’s solar electric car can go over 10,000 hybrid miles per year. The motors company says that with their vehicle, drivers can reduce looking for electric chargers or plugging in one since the automobile can rely on sunlight for power.

all images courtesy of Aptera Motors

three wheels hidden under movable compartments

During Aptera’s drive test in their workshop in San Diego, California, the design team has a bare prototype. For the most part, it is meant to monitor and check the design, production components, and critical performance metrics. At CES 2025, the motors company introduces the production-ready style of the solar electric car, completed with a furnished interior. The doors flap open upwards for a wider entrance and exit space. Even the trunk door lifts up, revealing a spacious storage area just behind the two seats. The three wheels hide under movable compartments for easy repair, and the headlamps comprise three boxy LED lights for more luminous driving at night.

Inside, there’s a U-shaped steering wheel that resembles a smiling face. Beside it hangs a medium-sized screen that projects the infotainment for the driver. There’s a cabinet in front of the passenger’s seat for extra storage. Between them and the driver sits a cup holder. For the first time at CES 2025, Aptera demonstrates the solar panels covering the electric car. They’re on the hood, dash, roof, and hatch of the vehicle. Visitors are also able to see the full body structure of the vehicle. It is set to be produced from carbon fiber sheet molding compound for a lightweight result. There’s no official news yet on the release date of the solar electric car.

the solar panels cover the electric car’s hood, dash, roof, and hatch

the solar electric car’s doors open upwards

at CES 2025, Aptera showcases the furnished interiors of the vehicle

the trunk door lifts upward and reveals a spacious storage area

the wheels hide under movable compartments

side view of the vehicle

the full body structure is set to be produced from carbon fiber sheet molding compound

the headlamps comprise three boxy LED lights for more luminous driving at night

view of the solar cells covering the vehicle

Aptera has already completed the car’s first drive tests in their workshop in California

project info:

name: Solar electric car

company: Aptera Motors | @aptera_motors

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