Super Solar Power

The world’s largest solar power plant, capable of powering 140,000 homes, became operational this week, Gizmodo reports. It’s estimated that the Ivanpah Solar Electric Generating System in California will enable power producers to avoid emitting 400,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide per year, the equivalent of removing 72,000 vehicles from the road. But the plant isn’t bird-friendly, according to The Wall Street Journal. Sparrows, hawks, and other birds appear to be getting roasted as they fly by steam-generating towers that can reach more than 500°C (about 1000°F).