Summary Reader Response Draft 2: Solar - Panel Buses

The article “Go-Ahead Singapore rolls out 6-month trial of public buses with solar panels”, Kok (2021, March) discusses the “proof of concept trial” conducted by Go Ahead Singapore from March - September 2021. The article highlighted the features and uses of the ultra-thin solar panels that aim to reduce carbon emissions and fuel consumption by utilizing solar energy.

The 16mm-thick pliable panels designed to resist shattering, weighs under 20kg which is a third of what conventional solar panels weigh. Leonard Lee, Go-Ahead Singapore engineering director, mentioned that the weight and size of the solar panels does not pose as a problem for it to be installed on the roof of the buses due to its ultra-thin and lightweight feature. Due to the hot and humid climate in Singapore, the solar panels are able to absorb solar energy effectively. The panels generate electric energy to charge the buses’ batteries instead of depending on its alternator.  According to data from a trial that was conducted in Southampton in 2019, the trial has resulted in saving 1,400 liters of diesel and 3.7 tones of emissions per bus annually.

Thesis: Transportation are one of the sectors that contributes to the rise in carbon emissions. The use of solar panels can reduce carbon emissions and helps reverse the impact of global warming, improves quality of life and it is cost efficient. 

References:

Auto, H. (2021, March 30). Go-Ahead Singapore rolls out 6-month trial of public buses with solar panels. The Straits Times. https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/transport/first-public-buses-with-solar-panels-hit-the-road-in-six-month-trial-by-go-ahead