Thousands of motorists see them daily as they pass on Flamingo Road near Cambridge Street. But what, just what, is done with those huge solar panels throughout any given year?
UNLV’s Center for Energy Research: A Leader in Sustainable Energy
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) is home to the Center for Energy Research (CER). This research unit develops and advances energy technologies that are sustainable, efficient, and environmentally friendly. The CER was founded in 1993 and is currently led by Dr. Robert F. Boehm, a distinguished professor of mechanical engineering.
Solar Energy: Harnessing the Power of the Sun
One of the CER’s main areas of expertise is solar energy, which it showcases at the UNLV Solar Site. The site, which opened in 2001 with a grant from the Department of Energy, serves as a learning platform for students and a power generator for the university. The site produces 100 kilowatts of energy, enough to power 20 homes, and sells it back to NV Energy, earning energy credits for the university.
The solar site features various types of solar power systems, such as two flat-panel Amonix concentrating photovoltaic (CPV) systems and a 100-kV solar dish. The site also has a Façade Evaluation Facility, where researchers can test windows, built-in photovoltaics (BIPV) systems, and other building components. The site operates with the support of federal grants and private-sector funds.
Thermal Power: Improving Efficiency and Reducing Water Use
Another area of interest for the CER is thermal power, especially in arid regions. The CER works on improving the performance and reducing the water consumption of thermal power plants through a novel air-cooled condenser. The project, called “Air-Cooled Condenser for Desert Climates: Design and Experiments,” aims to create a more sustainable and cost-effective solution for cooling power plants.
Nuclear Fusion: Exploring the Future of Energy
The CER also explores the potential of nuclear fusion, a process that could provide abundant and clean energy. The CER’s project, called “Design of a Small Modular Reactor of Thorium Molten Salt,” investigates the use of thorium as a fuel and molten salt as a coolant for a small modular reactor. The project claims that this design could offer advantages such as inherent safety, high efficiency, and low waste.
Other Facilities: Demonstrating Practical Impact
The CER also operates other facilities that demonstrate the practical impact of its research, such as the Hydrogen Filling Station and the Energy Efficient Homes. The Hydrogen Filling Station produces and dispenses hydrogen for fuel cell vehicles. At the same time, Energy Efficient Homes showcases the best practices for building reduced-energy homes in the Southwest U.S. desert.
Collaboration, Education, and Outreach: Sharing Knowledge and Innovation
The CER collaborates with various academic, industrial, and governmental partners to advance its research goals and disseminate its findings. The CER also provides educational and outreach opportunities for students, faculty, and the public to learn about the latest developments and innovations in energy research. In the dynamic landscape of energy exploration, UNLV’s Center for Energy Research emerges as a leader in sustainability and progress.
Location:
The UNLV Solar Site is located at the Taylor Hall building on the north side of campus, at 869 E. Flamingo Road, just west of Maryland Parkway. On the campus map, Taylor Hall is building #53. The site is right next to the Rebel Recycling building.
It is on the south side of Flamingo Road, between Swenson Street & Cambridge Street/Claymont Street.
Address: 869 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89119
Phone: (702) 895-3011
Website: unlv.edu
