One of the biggest problem with solar energy is how to sustain energy generation after sunset. It boils down to finding a way to store solar energy for use on demand. This has lead to the creation of a different form of power generation - solar thermal. Solat thermal generates electricity by using the sun’s heat to boil water. The water is then used to heat salt that will store the energy until it is required for use....

Given my love of green technology and of airplanes, the Solar Impulse airplane is about the most awesome thing ever.

The Solar Impulse has the wingspan of an Airbus A340, but weighs only as much as a regular-size car. It's massive wings are covered by 12,000 solar cells, which convert the sun's energy to charge its batteries, which power the plane's 10-horsepower motors to spin its four propellers.

In a keynote speech at the WIRED Business Conference, Microsoft founder Bill Gates said more money needs to be spent on research and development in the field of energy innovation rather than old technologies, making it affordable for developing nations.