| Green Energy" Is the Way To Go, But How Do Solar Panels Work? |
| Written by Walter Hull | |
| Monday, 15 February 2010 | |
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If we are serious about decreasing environmental pollution, then solar energy should be a part of the equation it isn't a part of the problem, so it must be part of the solution. It's recognized as an "alternative energy source", as it isn't widely used as a main source of power for very many people. It's expensive to produce solar panels, and in today's world, calculators and lawn decor are two of the most popular solar powered gadgets used by the mainstream. So, the burning question that could maybe help solve our planet's current dilemma is, how do solar panels work? How does a panel harness the sun's energy and turn it into electricity?
If we are serious about decreasing environmental pollution, then solar energy should be a part of the equation it isn't a part of the problem, so it must be part of the solution. It's recognized as an "alternative energy source", as it isn't widely used as a main source of power for very many people. It's expensive to produce solar panels, and in today's world, calculators and lawn decor are two of the most popular solar powered gadgets used by the mainstream. So, the burning question that could maybe help solve our planet's current dilemma is, how do solar panels work? How does a panel harness the sun's energy and turn it into electricity? The basic concept of how solar panels work is that they're made from special materials that are capable of harnessing the sun's energy and converting it into electricity. Electricity that powers electronic devices that we use in our everyday lives. But there's a little more to it than that. A budding technology used today for solar panels is photovoltaic (PV) electricity. It involves the use of specific materials that convert solar energy into electricity. The electricity can be used right away or it can be stored using DC batteries. Either way, we've got power! These materials have been recently developed and they release electrons when prompted by sunlight. Another name for a photovoltaic panel is a "direct energy conversion device". All of these effects take place on an atomic level without any moving parts. Historically, only space age technology used photovoltaic panels. Space stations and satellites used them because they were a reliable source for continuous solar energy conversion. The extra bonus that using them in outer space has is that the sun's radiation is at least 50% stronger than it is here on Earth. Those living far from an electrical grid, more than a mile, are more likely to use photovoltaic technology, especially in residential homes. Power transmission cables cost way more to install than a photovoltaic power array would. If you're a notable distance from an electrical grid, then it may be a good idea to consider solar energy for your power source. Still, how do solar panels work? Understanding solar energy can help answer this question. Solar energy's made up of two kinds of radiation, and the most desirable for solar panels is called "beam radiation". This is what we feel when soaking up sun rays on the beach in June, when there's not a cloud in the sky. Clear days are the best for collecting beam radiation, but the solar panel needs to be placed strategically to gather the most direct sun rays possible if you want to get the most from your solar panel. The other kind of radiation is "diffuse radiation". This radiation is strewn all over the place (as its name suggests). On a cloudy day, it's the primary radiation source for a solar panel. It's the same thing if you're relaxing under a shade tree diffuse radiation is what you're going to get. Unfortunately diffuse radiation isn't very strong and relying on it alone for solar energy isn't practical. For solar panels to work efficiently, a sunny location is mandatory. Beam radiation is the most effective since it's the strongest. Most of Western America qualifies as a good locale for beam radiation those states are good candidates for the use of solar energy, but northern climates and coastal states are usually quite cloud-laden and sadly, not worthy of 100% solar-reliance. Solar panels can be built to meet special needs. 12 volt, 24 volt and 48 volt DC systems are the most popular. 12 volt solar panels can survive for over 20 years and are about 12-14% efficient. One reason that solar power is still considered an "alternative energy source" is due to the high cost of production. The silicon semi-conductor materials are costly, but new materials are being experimented with and they're geared towards lowering the price of producing solar panels. This would make solar power more accessible to the "average Joe", and in turn helping save our atmosphere. It's unfortunate that solar energy is still considered "alternative energy", but that's all changing. If you're considering a conversion to solar power then there are specific considerations to be made upon deciding, but it's definitely a step in the right direction for our planet. The benefits outweigh the cost as far as our environment is concerned, especially the long term effects. Energy independence is a common goal for all, and if you just want to consider solar energy as a back up plan, then the decision is practically already made for you. Why not? The environment will benefit greatly once solar panels become financially available to all. |
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