Needless to mention the sun is the largest energy source of our planet. The massive amount of heat it produces is used by Earth as energy. Modern technologies help us to harness that energy for our needs. From generating electricity to driving vehicles and cooking, solar power is used everywhere.
The way fossil fuel is getting exhausted is a matter of great concern. With this, the world is nearing great danger and all it needs is an alternative source and the sun is the only hope left.
In this article, we will learn about some important things about solar power. So without wasting any time, let’s delve into the details.
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What Is Solar Power?
Let us first understand what solar power is.
Solar power is renewable energy from the sun. The sun’s rays penetrate the Earth’s atmosphere as infrared radiation and visible light. Solar panels absorb that sunlight and convert it into electricity. Even plants need solar energy to perform photosynthesis, the process that converts this energy into starch and sugar.
Solar energy used for daily activities is nothing new. Since ancient times, people have been using it for various purposes. One fine example would be producing fire with a magnifying glass. In modern times, we use solar panels to absorb the sun’s energy and convert it into electricity.
Types Of Solar Power
There are five main types of solar power. These include:
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Photovoltaic Solar Power
Solar panels are used to generate energy. The photovoltaic cells in the panels absorb sunlight and convert it into electricity, which is then used to run electric home appliances.
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Concentrated Solar Power
This is the type of solar power that uses lenses or mirrors to focus sun rays onto a small area to produce heat. This is mainly used to drive turbines and produce steam.
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Solar Thermal Energy
This energy is created by converting solar power into heat. It helps make industrial and commercial buildings more energy-efficient and sustainable. Also, it is an affordable energy source.
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Passive Solar Energy
This type of solar energy is slightly different from the other options in this list. It refers to the use of direct sunlight to warm a space or building and doesn’t require any advanced technology.
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Building-Integrated Photovoltaics
The name pretty clearly refers to the process of integration of photovoltaic panels into building components. For example: in the windows, walls, or roof. It is widely used for powering up the building.
Know The Advantages Of Solar Power
The main advantages of solar power are:
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Renewable Energy Source
As mentioned before, solar power is a renewable source of energy, meaning it will never get used up entirely as it uses the sun as its source of energy which is free and always available.
Unlike fossil fuels, solar power doesn’t create greenhouse gases or carbon emissions. It doesn’t have a damaging effect on the environment.
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Can Generate Electricity
This is the reason that everyone is after solar energy. It is used to generate electricity and run home appliances. It is powerful enough to run heavy machines in industries.
Electricity is generated using solar power even on cloudy days. The amount of electricity power produced will reduce, but it is still worth it.
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Helps Reduce Electricity Bills
Reduced electricity is another benefit that comes along with solar energy. Installing solar panels on the roofs of houses can trap energy from the sun to power up their homes.
The solar panels help convert sunlight into electricity, which is then used to run various home appliances. This is a great way to save on monthly electricity bills.
Uses Of Solar Power In Our Daily Lives
Let us learn the different uses of solar power. Most of these things are a part of our daily lives. Here you go with the details.
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Cooking
People in many places use solar energy to cook. It is an excellent alternative to a gas stove. You can use a solar cooker or oven for cooking. This can reduce your energy bills to a great extent.
A solar cooker needs solar power to function. With the right knowledge, you can even make a solar cooker at home. All you need is some Styrofoam insulation, a cooking bag, a pan duct tape, a box with aluminum foil, and a thermometer.
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Battery Charging
We need batteries to run many of our devices and gadgets. You can use solar-powered batteries that can be charged under the sun. Just place the batteries under the sun and let them charge. This is a great alternative to save electricity. Additionally, you can use it at the time of power cuts.
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Solar Energy For Industries
Many industries around the world have switched to solar power. They have huge solar panels to trap sun rays and convert them into electricity. This electricity is used to run heavy equipment and machinery. Using solar power reduces electric bills, and also protects pipes from corrosion.
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Solar Water Heater
There are two main types of solar water heaters – passive hot water systems and active solar hot water systems. Both can replace the conventional water heater.
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Solar Space Heating System
A solar space heating system is used to warm or heat a building. It is commonly used in offices and homes. People in cold countries can use this technology to warm their houses. This technology is eco-friendly and easy to use, and it saves a lot of money too. However, it takes different materials and ventilation to install a solar space heating system at home.
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Solar Lights
Solar lights are powered by solar energy. These can replace the street lights and save energy consumption. They are easy to use and work in natural light. It charges during the day and uses it at night.
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Solar Vehicles
Vehicles produce large amounts of carbon emissions and pollute the air. Solar-powered cars and vehicles can be a solution to this problem. Solar energy is clean and doesn’t create harmful emissions. However it requires thorough planning and investment to make everyone switch to solar vehicles.
Solar power is indeed a cost-effective and eco-friendly option and its being a renewable source of energy makes it more appealing. These reasons have made people switch to solar energy. Anyone can take advantage of solar energy with the help of available technologies. It will benefit both you and the environment.