subject: Just What Is Solar Power? [print this page] Solar energy utilizes the sun's radiant energy and is classified as a type of renewable energy. The process by which this occurs is the transformation of sunlight into electric power via solar cells.
Charles Fritts invented solar cells, also known as photovoltaics, in the 1880's. This revolution has continued, even though they did not convert much sunlight into electricity at that time. The Vanguard 1 satellite used solar cells for power after the battery died, is a great example.
A great demand for solar power happened during the 1973 oil crisis. Each watt used to cost the consumer one hundred dollars, early on. By the 1980s, the price had fallen to just $7/watt.
While solar energy demand has dropped in the US it is steadly increasing in Germany and Japan. In 1994 production was 31.2 megawatts, which grew to 318 megawatts by 1999 with 30% growth in production worldwide near the close of the twentieth century. Next to these two countries, Spain is the third largest user of solar energy followed by France, Italy and South Korea.
A trio of fundamental approaches exist for maximizing solar energy use. To be precise, these are comprised of passive, active, plus solar-based photovoltaic methods.
The passive approach depends much on the design of the building. The building will be able to contain heat better, allowing the people inside to stay comfortable with help from a controlled ventilation system and day lighting. With just a minimal cost, reductions of up to 80% can be seen in home choose to apply this.
Using sunlight converted to heat to provide water and space heating is active solar heating. Such as is done in Europe, the correct size could cover over 50% of your water heating.
Lastly, there is photovoltaic, which changes solar radiation to electricity. You install solar cells into the ground, and the higher the light intensity, the higher flow of electricity. They are available in varying sizes, and come installed in devices such as watches and calculators.
Some vehicles now utilize solar energy for power. Cars not commercially produced compete in an annual event in Australia called the World Solar Challenge, people from all over the world are invited to compete. There are balloons and unmanned aerial vehicles as well. Thus far, only passenger boats have been successful using solar energy.
Solar energy is an option to decrease our dependence on oil, as well as preserve the environment. When compared to kerosene and batteries, solar energy is much cheaper to provide power to homes, and we need to convince the government to do more about it.
