Silicon Valley in Russia ?

Small city near Moscow is said to become an international high-tech centre.

SKOLKOVO

New Approach to Solar Power

Hybrid solar-thermoelectric systems could provide advantages over conventional solar cells or solar thermal plants: M.I.T. News

Sputnik

Today is 54 years since the first Sputnik was launched into orbit. Legend says Yours Truly descended from it in the capsule on a parachute...

 This started the space race, which - not coincidentally - instigated development of the solar cells ...


 The history of Solar cells

Here comes the sun

Today, met with the Chief Technologist of Day 4 Energy, Dr. Leonid Rubin.
I was so much impressed by the combination of intelligence and softness of Mr.Rubin.
Day 4 Energy is making probably the most efficient photo voltaic panels in the world,
which do not require direct sunlight to produce electricity and don't loose much of their
efficiency in shade.  This sophisticated technology, which Mr. Rubin  is the author of,
was conceived in Russia, designed in Germany, and implemented in British Columbia,
Canada !