Large, closed solar chimney systems could power the world

, if somebody can be persuaded to generate the experimental data needed and input this into computer models sufficiently sophisticated to optimise the design. Former MP Dr Alan Williams, probably the only properly qualified engineer in the House of Commons then or since, describes how, "A large, sealed ground level solar air collector generates warm air which rises. It flows through a convergent nozzle where enthalpy is converted into kinetic energy, which then drives an air turbine. Post-turbine, the air is cooler and denser and falls under gravitation to the base of the solar collector to complete the closed cycle. The cycle is driven by natural convection. The author believes that all the energy changes involved are subject to the First Law of thermodynamics and an overall efficiency of over 50 per cent solar energy into electricity should be achievable." Dr Williams has come up with a number of configurations that look as if they should work, some probably better than others. The only real problem is that we believe that they are only likely to be very efficient on a scale large enough that the heated air is able to get up to a high velocity, so the designs need to be studied and optimised prior to construction. Our illustration shows the "Convection Mill" invented by a Mr A. R. Bennett in 1896 on display in the Science Museum in London which demonstrates the principles involved. Are there any volunteers to help develop an update and get it to work on a commercial scale? More information from www.globalwarmingsolutions.co.uk Global Warming Solutions