What Are The Basics Of Solar Energy?

Do you want to integrate solar panels into your home or business?

If so, you may wonder about the science behind solar energy generation.

How does solar energy become available, and how successfully are we using it?

In this blog, you will learn all the basics of solar energy and its efficiency as an alternative power source.

Basics Of Solar Energy

Humans have been utilizing solar energy for thousands of years, dating back to the 7th century B.C., primarily for generating fire.

Nowadays, we use solar energy to produce electricity, the most common method being photovoltaics.

Photovoltaics is what makes solar panels work, hence the term Solar PV.

Solar PV captures natural sunlight to make electricity by changing the direct current into an alternating one.

Although tiny, often thinner than four hair strands, solar photovoltaic cells can generate between 1 and 2 watts of power.

These cells are protected by encapsulating them in durable materials and connecting them in chains to create larger modules or solar panels.

When exposed to sunlight, each solar cell’s silicon semiconductor releases electrons.

And then, an electric field within the cell guides these electrons into a one-way electric current.

After that, metal contacts on the cell transfer the one-way current to an external object, ranging from small devices to large power stations.

However, it’s important to note that solar PV cells alone cannot fully harness solar energy.

There are other parts needed for a complete solar power system.

This includes an inverter to change the energy into a form that appliances can use and racking to mount the system.

Additional components like battery storage and a charge controller are necessary if you’re living off the grid.

You’ll also need wiring, fuses, and disconnects to ensure seamless operation.

Nonetheless, solar panels can be used individually or grouped into arrays to meet higher power requirements.

There are also solar farms or panels covering extensive areas, even several acres of land.

What Is Solar Energy For?

Solar energy is rapidly gaining popularity in both commercial and residential settings.

It is a versatile technology that can be installed close to the point of use or in large central stations, similar to traditional power plants.

For instance, large-scale solar farms that produce a megawatt of electricity daily can be directly fed into the power grid, unlike individual panels that only power a single building.

Solar energy was first used to power spacecraft and satellites for off-grid electricity.

Nowadays, we can find sizeable solar power stations in the United States, India, and China.

These stations could be ground-mounted, on a roof, or floating.

Solar panels are also used in businesses, schools, and hospitals, as well as for highway lighting.

They can even power small devices like watches, calculators, and parking meters.

Still, solar energy applications depend on supportive policies at various government levels to promote access to clean energy.

Solar Energy In Canada

Over 40,000 people in Canada now use solar energy in their homes, businesses, and even factories.

All of these consumers have more control over their energy, which helps them save money and reduce overall electricity bills.

No wonder why most of Canada’s solar power comes from large solar farms, such as the Travers Solar Project in Alberta.

Canada even aims to get 90% of its electricity from clean sources by 2030 and 100% by 2050.

Solar panel efficiency has also significantly increased over the years, with the rate going from 15% to 23%, not to mention the cost falling by over half of the price in just five years.

In a nutshell, solar energy is expected to increase and will play a significant role in the country’s future.

If you’re interested in solar for home or business, Panel Upgrade Experts Ltd. is a leading solar energy provider.

Check their website for more solar energy information.