Solar power harnesses the sun’s light and heat to generate sustainable or “green” electricity in an eco-friendly manner, offering an alternative source of renewable power that is both affordable and safe.
Solar power systems are limited in their ability to operate during periods of sunlight. This requires storage for their operation. Moreover, they may be expensive, but there are several financing options.
Photovoltaic cells
Scientists at NREL, among others, are working to improve photovoltaic cells to make them more efficient, less expensive and easier to manufacture.
Each PV cell is made of thin semiconductor materials that have been treated in order to create an electrical field. One side has a positive charge, and the other a negative one. When sunlight strikes the cell, it energizes its semiconductor material. This releases electrons that flow through it and connect via metal plates to form direct-current electricity.
PV cells generate electricity that can either power electronics directly, or sold to the electric grid through an inverter that converts DC current to AC electricity. Battery storage is also possible, but a charge controller must be installed to ensure optimal performance.
Concentrated solar power plants
The technology of concentrated solar power uses mirrors to reflect and capture the sun’s light. It then converts this energy into heat through a receiver tube, and turns a generator and turbine to produce electricity, similar to nuclear fission or fossil fuel plants.
Power tower and linear systems both utilize mirrors to direct sunlight onto a central receiver, while parabolic trough systems use similar principles but in a U-shaped configuration; smaller systems may also be built depending on local needs.
CSP is a good option because it can be used on cloudy days and its electricity can be stored. CSP offers an attractive alternative because its electricity can even be used on cloudy or rainy days. Some systems use steam to power an Organic Rankine Cycle system.
Solar panels
Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity and are often installed on rooftops or in open areas. Solar energy is a renewable resource; therefore it will never run out! Furthermore, maintaining solar panels requires only regular cleanings in order to keep in good physical condition.
Solar power systems are typically designed to last over three decades and make an excellent long-term investment for homeowners. Not only are they more cost effective than traditional electric systems but they can reduce energy bills significantly while being more eco-friendly than their counterparts.
Solar energy offers an environmental-friendly alternative to fossil fuels; however, its production does not come without drawbacks. Mining raw materials for solar panels can have an impact on the environment. Furthermore, production depends on weather conditions – solar panels tend not to perform as efficiently during cloudy or winter weather days; their optimal effectiveness lies closer to the equator.
Stores
Solar technology enables us to tap the sun’s radiant energy for electricity or heat generation, creating energy efficiency within homes while providing electricity to grid after dark and even storing energy for use during cloudy days.
Solar energy, unlike fossil fuels, is a renewable resource that has an unlimited supply. Solar energy can be produced at large scales to power cities and communities, or as a supplement to other renewable energies such as wind power.
Solar power is a vital part of the US electricity system, which helps to transition towards a greener economy. SEIA strives to support the expansion of solar power at all levels, including local, state, and federal. This allows consumers and businesses to benefit from this reliable and sustainable energy source.