Solar Power

What Is Solar Power? Solar power is the energy obtained from the sun and converted into usable electricity. It is the light and heat of the sun that is convert into electrcity by solar cells.

SOLAR POWER

How Does Solar Energy Work?Solar energy is harnessed from speeding photons which are created in the centre of the sun by the fusion of atoms. Then the sun’s light travels to the earth and we use solar cells to harness this energy. Solar cells can also be called photovoltaic cells. The photovoltaic cells convert the sun’s energy into usable electricity when they are exposed to sunlight. To harness a large amount of energy we use solar panels, solar panels consist of many solar cells.

How Does Solar Power Work? (Continued) In a solar cell there is a negative layer and a positive layer, these layers are made out of silicon. When the photons hit the solar cell, the electrons become free and move from the negative layer to the positive layer. The electrons flow through wires and power any electrical appliance.

How Does Solar Power Work (Continued)?The electricity created by the solar cells is DC electricity, but the electricity used in our homes is AC electricity. To convert the DC electricity into AC electricity you need an inverter. The inverter converts the DC electricity into AC electricity. Moreover, a battery is used to store any extra electricity generated by the solar cells. The stored energy is used when the sun is not shining. In addition, the inverter can push the extra electricity back to the power company and you will be paid back by the power company.

Solar Power and the FutureSolar power is a clean and renewable energy source. When oil reserves will be exhausted, everyone will turn towards solar power. When solar panels are first purchased they can be very expensive however, in the long run solar panels can save a lot of money. Solar panels are worth it because they can last 30 to 40 years; the solar cells in the solar panel require little maintenance. Unlike wind turbines, solar cells make no noise at all. Solar technology is constantly developing and improving. We already see how solar power is being used, solar cells can be found on simple appliances such as a calculator.

Solar Power and the Future (continued) Right now solar power produces approximately 1 percent of the world’s electricity, but we are already seeing a glimpse of the future of solar power. There are numerous ideas that are taking solar power to the next step for example, we see things such as the solar powered car already being endorsed. Unlike nuclear energy solar power is safe. Solar power has definitely made its place in the future.