SunHopes -- Generating Solar Energy from Helium Balloons

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SunHopes is a breakthrough product in the field of solar energy, developed by Dr. Pini Gurfil and Dr. Joseph Cory of the Technion, Israel Institute of Technology. Lightweight, thin-film photovoltaic cells are attached to the exterior surface of large helium balloons levitating at altitudes ranging from a few meters to a few hundred meters. The balloon interior is treated to prevent helium loss so as to maximize maintenance-free operation time. The electricity generated by the cells is then conducted to the ground using electrical cables, designed to minimize transport losses.

SunHopes does not require any surface area, a resource that is often scarce in urban areas. SunHopes offers, therefore, a cost-effective, lightweight, mobile, modular and adaptable means for generating solar energy without occupying any dedicated ground. These features can be used for a myriad of potential applications, including electric car recharge units, off-grid electricity generation for camping, yachts and golf courses, power farms with energy from the air and vegetation on the ground, secondary electrical units for residential consumers, and scientific applications.   

A prototype of the SunHopes system was built and successfully operated during November 2007.

The SunHopes project seeks funding for building and operating an upgraded prototype, capable of providing 1 kilowatt of power, and for establishing the intellectual property foundations of the technology, aimed at supporting a global operation. In exchange for capital and strategic support, SunHopes will offer the investor equity. SunHopes is committed to help meeting a global demand for energy while promoting the use of clean and renewable energy. SunHopes offers investors an association with this noble initiative.

To complete the research and development phase of the product, the SunHopes team envisions collaboration with leaders in the clean-energy market, including industrial, private and governmental entities.

Dr. Pini Gurfil

http://www.technion.ac.il/~pgurfil/

Dr. Joseph Cory

www.geotectura.com