Solar energy is a renewable power source that harnesses the sun`s light to generate electricity. It has the potential to help us become energy independent and secure on a global scale.
As the cost of solar panels has decreased over the years, solar power is becoming more affordable and accessible to homeowners. Solar energy is made even more affordable by financial incentives offered by some states.
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Photovoltaics
Photovoltaics, also known as PV, are solar cells that convert sunlight into electricity. This process, known as the photovoltaic effect, is what gave them their name and has allowed them to power calculators, watches and space satellites since they were first developed in 1954.
Photovoltaic systems consist of solar panels that absorb sunlight and convert it into electricity. A solar inverter changes the electric current from DC or AC and other components. You can find them in small rooftop or building-integrated installations to large, utility-scale power plants of hundreds of megawatts.
Researchers from NREL and other labs around the globe are trying to develop solar photovoltaics which will last for many years. They are also working to find ways to integrate solar power into the grid without causing disruptions in the careful balance between energy supply and demand. These goals are designed to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, and mitigate climate change.
Solar Thermal
Solar thermal energy is a technology for harnessing the sun`s energy for heating water or air for residential and commercial use. It is a type of renewable energy that is different from photovoltaics, which converts solar energy into electricity.
There are many types of solar thermal technology, including low-temperature (flat plate), collectors for pool heating and boiler water preheating, and medium and high temperature collectors that concentrate the sun using lenses or mirrors to generate electric power.
Concentrating solar thermal power (CSP) technology uses thousands of mirrors to focus the sun`s rays on a heat receiver. This heat then generates steam that drives a standard turbine to generate electricity.
The unique ability of solar thermal power plants to store heat generated during the day can allow them to produce electricity in times when the sun is not shining. This makes solar thermal an integral part of a carbon neutral energy system.
Solar Water Heating
Solar water heating systems use the sun`s energy to heat potable water, reducing fuel costs and pollution. They can serve up to 80% of a building`s hot water needs, with minimal operation and maintenance (O&M) expense.
A solar water heater can reduce fossil fuel usage by up to 50% compared to a conventional gas or electric water heater. It also cuts down on greenhouse gas emissions, which can cause a variety of problems for the environment, such as acid rain and air pollution.
Solar water heating systems can be cost effective when properly designed to minimize life-cycle cost. Optimizing the tilt of the collector can maximize summer solar gains and minimize winter losses.
Solar Electricity
The Sun`s energy, solar power, is a form of renewable and green energy. You can use it for everything from electricity generation to water treatment.
There are three main ways to harness the sun`s energy for use in our daily lives: Photovoltaic (PV), solar thermal, and concentrated solar power (CSP). Solar PV is a method that converts sunlight directly into electricity. It can be used on rooftops and ground-mounted arrays.
Concentrated solar power uses mirrors and lenses to reflect sunlight and concentrate it into a very small beam. The heat can be used to create steam which powers a turbine or an electricity generator.
Solar electric systems can be an attractive way to power a home, especially when combined with a battery system that provides backup during non-daylight hours. They also save money on power bills.