subject: Get To Know How Solar Power Works [print this page] Get To Know How Solar Power Works Get To Know How Solar Power Works
A lot of people are unaware of how solar power actually works. If you have ever wondered and wanted to know, then this article is for you. Solar power is a fantastic way to do our environment a favor while we benefit ourselves as well.Once your system is paid for, the energy you get from the sun is free,supplying electricity to lights and appliances in your home. Harnessing the sun's energy for power is a great thing and more and more people are making the change and enjoying the benefits. Here's how it works.The methods used. -The most common way solar power is created is by using photovoltaic technology. Sunlight is transformed directly into electricity with the help of PV cells. These solar cells are used to make modules that create a solar panel. When sunlight shines upon this solar panel, electrons in the solar cells are loosened by the photons found in sunlight. From here an electrical current is created from the loose electrons and can be utilized for electricity. Thermal collectors can also be used to create solar power; this is done by drawing heat from the sun. The solar thermal collectors have 3 group temperature classifications; low, medium and high. Hot water that is used for commercial or residential use would use a medium temperature collector, these are flat plates. Electric power creation that collects sunlight with the use of lenses or mirrors is done by high temperature collectors. Photovoltaic technology; how it works. -We will discuss in more detail how the process of this works because it is the most common form used. Once the electrical current is created from loose electrons it just begin its work to create the electricity we use. The solar energy is converted into direct current electricity by the solar panels and then travels into an inverter. This inverter then transforms the direct current electricity in 120 volt AC, this is the electricity required to work appliances. This AC power goes through the utility panel in your home and this is then circulated to lighting and appliances in your home. Excess solar energy is stored in the battery as DC electricity enabling you to have electricity during blackouts or at night. Solar power is a fantastic process in using a natural resource to gain electricity for our homes. In understanding the process it is easier to appreciate this renewable energy and hopefully encourage more people to switch to solar power for a cleaner future.
