Solar Energy uses the heat and light from the sun to derive renewable and clean power. A Solar power system works by turning the sun’s energy into electricity using Solar panels or concentrated power. Solar Energy has been a part of the globe for decades, and through the years, it has become increasingly better and more efficient. From homes and businesses, millions are opting for solar energy globally.
Each year, as technology advances, we witness a downfall in the cost of installing a solar system. The idea of incorporating clean energy is not only intelligent but also the right thing to do. Many countries have been a victim of persistent pollution and carbon emission. To eliminate such environmental hazards governments over the globe have been giving substantial incentives to encourage Solar Systems.
The sun is an abundant source of renewable energy. Its vast amount that reaches the earth in the form of light converts to heat when it spreads to an object. The most common way to harness solar energy is by using solar panels. A solar power system, with the use of solar panels, can convert that sunlight into efficient power. The most common way to harness solar energy is by using two types of panels – solar photovoltaics (solar panels) and solar thermal systems.
Solar Thermal
The idea behind both types of solar panels is the same – to absorb sunlight and use it to create usable energy. The working principle for Solar Thermal comprises the direct heating of water by sunlight. The purpose of Residential solar thermal systems is water heating. Subsequently, this system can provide hot water all year round, even in cool climates.
Solar Thermal panels work intending to generate heat. At a vast scale, the heat can create super-concentrated steam, which can power a turbine resulting in electricity.
Photovoltaic
Photovoltaic (PV) panels are used when the type of energy required is electricity. Solar Panels comprise numerous solar cells or PV cells. They are made with both a positive and negative layer, which creates an electric field when combined, similar to a battery. The main feature of a solar panel is its ability to convert photons into electrons. Each PV panel has silicon cells made of semiconductor material, which react with photons within the sun’s rays. When the cells receive light, the semiconductor absorbs and releases electrons, known as the Photovoltaic Effect. The loose electrons, with the help of an electric field, generate energy. This procedure creates a direct current (DC) and then converts it into an alternate current (AC). Alternate current can be transmitted into energy distribution networks to power homes and communities. In the case of surplus, you can send it back to the national grid.
How Does Solar Panel System Work?
When photons hit solar cells, the electrons are knocked loose from their atoms. There are conductors attached to the positive and negative sides of a cell to form an electric circuit. When electrons pass through this circuit, they generate electricity. Multiple cells make up a solar panel, and numerous panels can be wired together to create a solar array. You can deploy as many solar panels as you require to generate adequate electricity.
How is Electricity Generated through Solar Panels?
Since Photovoltaic panels create direct current (DC) electricity, the electrons flow in one direction around a circuit. Then, an inverter is used to get DC into AC (alternate current) grid. An inverter is the brain component of a solar power system. It takes the direct current from the solar array to generate an alternate current. There are two types of inverters; Central inverters and Micro-inverter. Micro-inverter is a new type of technology in the Photovoltaic (PV) industry. Central inverters optimize the entire solar system, whereas micro-inverters optimize every individual solar panel. In a central inverter, if one solar panel does not work, the complete system will have performance issues. However, in a micro-inverter, you can avoid this issue because each panel is individually optimized.
What To Do When The Sun is Not Shining?
Solar Energy creates electricity, but what does someone do when the sun does not shine? The ever-changing technology caters to every thought and requirement.
Solar Batteries are the new game changer in the Solar Power World. These batteries work by making a way to use solar energy when there is no sunlight. They work by storing the power generated through an inverter for later use. With a solar battery, you can use electricity at night, making you independent, and keeping your electricity bill at its lowest.
Regardless of its challenges, solar energy is constantly evolving and has become widely popular. The decrease in production costs, ease of installation, and government incentives are turning more and more people toward renewable energy. Not only is solar power efficient for daily use in residential and commercial applications, but it is also a reliable source of creating electricity. Solar energy can provide safe and clean energy when alternative methods are unavailable or too costly.