Solar Canals: An alternative to Advance Renewable Energy Production and Water Conservation Efforts

Abstract

Abstract Nowadays there are many cities around the world that have many kilometers of canals to provide clean water to citizens and they must take care of them. Solar canals are an alternative in these cases: by placing solar panels over canals, energy is absorbed and water loss through evaporation is prevented. Although this system can be expensive, in some projects this alternative could be more cost-effective than currently used renewable energies systems. This paper aims to delve into the characteristics of solar canals that turn these systems into a new viable option to produce renewable energy and prevent water loss in cities that can afford this type of projects. This paper describes solar canals, its requirements, the structure that supports them, advantages and disadvantages, and the kind of places in which they can be used. It is expected that this paper can provide information about an innovative energy generation system in order to improve the environment and fight against climate change.