Significance of solar trees: Configuration, operation, types and technology commercialization

Developing energy efficiencies solutions from sunlight to electricity is a crucial solution for the world's energy shortage and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. However, the typical photovoltaic (PV) flat module has a poor sunlight energy collection capability without a solar tracking system. Despite its advantages, solar PV technology has difficulties with land demand, capturing effectiveness and public image, especially in metropolitan areas due to the lack of pleasant aesthetics. This article presents an overview about the recently modified solar tree technology that can address these challenges efficiently. The main technology configurations, operational aspects and types are deeply presented and discussed. Many innovations and technologies of solar trees are analyzed and several commercial prototypes are discussed. Moreover, the main challenges and limitations that restrict the technology commercialization also highlighted in comparison with the traditional PV systems along with some remarks for future incomers. Analyzed studies show that solar tree technology is a good energy conversion method as it need only 1% land compared with traditional PV systems to produce power as more as 10%. Besides, this technology could efficiently collect off-peak sunshine and reflect light, and thus, create greater solar fraction. (C) 2022 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Ltd.