Alternative Energy That Shouldn’t Be Alternative Solar Energy How Do Solar Panels Work?
Solar energy has been around for awhile, but recently it’s been recognized as a viable source to keep our environment in check as far as noise and air pollution go. For some, solar energy is a difficult concept to grasp. Lawn decor and calculators are prime examples of some widely used solar powered gadgets, but the looming question for consumers has been, how do solar panels work?
Solar panels are made from special materials that absorb the sun’s rays and turn them into electricity that can power all sorts of electronic devices. Devices that we use electricity for everyday without thinking twice about could be powered by solar panels.
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.
These special materials for solar panels have just recently been developed. They release electrons when influenced by the sun’s energy. This creates the flow of voltage and the flow of electricity. A simpler, more descriptive name for a photovoltaic panel is a “direct energy conversion device”. This makes perfect sense since all these effects take place on an atomic level without 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.
People who live more than a mile from an electrical grid are better candidates for solar power use especially those in residential homes. It’s significantly more expensive to install power transmission cables than it is to install a solar panel kit. If you fit this criterion then solar energy to power your home is a smart way to go.
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 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 are versatile in the sense that they can be set up to meet specific needs. 12 volt, 24 volt, and 48 volt DC systems are the most widely used. 12 volt solar panels can live well over 20 years and fall in the range of 12-14% efficiency.
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.
Tags: Education, environment, home improvement, how do solar panels work, how solar power works, science, Solar Energy, solar power