Cylinder Solar Panels Generate More Energy For Less Cost

Solyndra, a California-based solar start up, says it’s figured out a way to make solar panels cheaper to install and better at producing energy–rolling them up. The company’s solar panels are comprised of rows of cylindrical solar cells deposited on glass tubes, a new type of shape that purportedly lets them absorb more light during the day.

The shape also offers less wind resistance than conventional flat panels, making them cheaper and easier to mount on roofs. These advantages ultimately reduce the cost of generating power from the sun, though Solyndra couldn’t give a direct answer on how much.

Considering that everyone, from Google to the Vatican, is installing a solar roof these days, Solyndra’s innovations could mean a serious boost for the industry. But what’s with not actually giving figures? That seems a little… shady. [Technology Review via Dvice]