Marjan van Aubel: The beautiful future of solar power

Marie Alvin, a solar designer, shares her passion for integrating solar technology into everyday life. She discusses the evolution of solar panels, their efficiency, and the need for better integration into environments. Alvin highlights her innovative projects, such as using Swarovski crystals to enhance solar efficiency and dye-sensitized solar cells inspired by photosynthesis. She emphasizes making solar technology accessible to all and envisions a future where solar energy is seamlessly integrated into urban settings, promoting solar democracy.

What is Marie Alvin Animus's main focus in her work as a solar designer?

• Building solar farms in rural areas

• Developing new types of solar panels

• Integrating solar technology with aesthetics

• Creating solar-powered vehicles

How do dye-sensitized solar cells differ from traditional solar cells?

• They are more expensive to produce

• They can only be used outdoors

• They mimic photosynthesis and can work indoors

• They require direct sunlight to function

What unique feature does Marie's solar table design include?

• It has built-in USB ports for charging devices

• It is made entirely of recycled materials

• It changes color based on sunlight

• It can be folded for easy storage

What challenge does Marie face in installing solar panels on her own home?

• Her home is a monument and cannot be altered

• There is not enough sunlight in her area

• Her home is too small for solar panels

• She cannot afford the installation costs

What is the concept of 'power plants' that Marie discusses?

• Large-scale solar farms in rural areas

• Urban farms using transparent solar glass and hydroponics

• Portable solar panels for personal use

• Traditional power plants using solar energy

What does Marie mean by 'solar democracy'?

• Solar energy should be free for everyone

• Solar technology should be accessible to all, everywhere

• Only governments should control solar energy distribution

• Solar panels should be installed in every home

What is Marie's ultimate goal for integrating solar technology?

• To ensure all surfaces can harvest electricity

• To make solar panels more visible

• To create solar-powered vehicles

• To reduce the cost of solar panels