A string of gigantic solar generators in the northern African desert could cleanly supply one-sixth of Europe’s electricity needs, say backers of a project called Desertec. The project relies on concentrated solar power, in which giant mirrors focus the sun’s rays on pillars filled with water, creating steam, which drives turbines, which generate electricity. In the Desertec scheme, about one-third of the power would be transmitted by cables underneath the Mediterranean Sea to Europe, while two-thirds would be used locally. In addition, the stations could be used as desalination plants to provide fresh water to desert countries. The prince of Jordan presented the plan to the European Parliament last week, and is urging the E.U. to front $10 billion for the project. They’re reflecting on it. Get it? Reflecting? Har.
