Pursuits

Can Solar Panels Help Solve California's Drought?

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From a distance, they almost look like a massive mosaic swimming-pool cover. They are photovoltaic panels, half-millimeter thick silicon wafers that are erected over reservoirs. Their function: Generate power while also conserving water.

For years, the technology was just a niche product. Now, with drought concerns growing in many places across the planet, it’s showing signs of taking off.