Solar energy is an excellent source that has the potential to greatly reduce environmental pollution. Unfortunately, it’s recognized as an “alternative energy” since it isn’t an energy source used by a majority of the population. One of the main reasons is that it’s still quite costly to manufacture. Right now, calculators and decorative outdoor lights are a couple of the most popular solar powered gadgets. The question remains, how do solar panels work? How does setting up a small panel, directed towards the sun, turn the sunlight into the electricity that keeps those pretty, bluish bright lights lighting up the walkway all night long?
The basic answer is that certain materials are used to harness the sun’s energy and convert it into electricity which can be used to power our electronic devices. But it’s a bit more complex.
An important, budding technology involving solar energy that’s being used today is photovoltaic (PV) electricity. This is the use of unique materials that convert solar energy into electricity, and this electricity is either stored through the use of DC batteries or it can be used instantly.
Photovoltaic technology includes the use of specific materials that have been recently developed. These materials discharge electrons when persuaded and influenced by solar power. This creates a voltage potential as well as electricity flow. A photovoltaic panel is also called a ‘direct energy conversion device’ since all of these effects are taking place on an atomic level minus any moving parts.
It used to be that only space age technology, like satellites and space stations, used photovoltaic panels. They were reliable for their continuous solar energy conversion, and once in outer space, the sun’s radiation is at least 50% stronger than it is on our planet.
A good candidate for solar energy is someone living a mile or more from an electrical grid since it’s a lot more costly to install power transmission cables than it is to install a solar panel kit. If this is you, then maybe it’s time to consider solar energy as your main power source.
But still, the looming question is “how do solar panels work?” Well, solar energy is made up of two kinds of radiation. One is called “beam radiation”. Beam radiation can be visualized by imagining direct sunlight on your skin while at the beach on a clear, sunny day. These cloud-free days make a major contribution to solar energy being gathered by solar panels, but the solar panels need to be strategically placed to harness the most sunshine possible.
The second kind of radiation is called “diffuse radiation”. This radiation isn’t the most desirable for solar panels because, as its name suggests, its radiation is diffused, scattered in a multitude of directions. It’s the primary radiation source on an overcast day, or if you’re relaxing under a shade tree. It isn’t very powerful and to rely solely on diffuse radiation would be impractical to say the least.
Needless to say, a bright sunny location is the most desirable place to mount a solar panel. Most of Western America is solid as far as good sun for solar energy goes. Northern climates and coastal states stand to face some difficulties since diffuse radiation is what they get most of the time.
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.
Soon enough, solar energy won’t be considered “alternative” anymore. You want to consider certain things if you’re planning on converting to solar power before making a decision, but it’s a step in the right direction for the environment. The benefits outweigh the cost when it comes to our planet’s health. Energy independence has become a common goal for many, and if you want to use solar as just a back up plan, then the choice is practically already made for you. The planet will benefit immensely once solar energy is accessible to everyone.
To learn more on how solar panels work get more information here.
Tags: environment, home improvement, how do solar panels work, how solar power works, Science, solar energy, solar power
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