How Is Solar Power Used Today?

Solar power is produced by harnessing and converting sunlight into electricity. There are three major technologies to generate energy from sunlight:
1) Photovoltaics (PV)---The PV cells convert the energy of the sunlight directly into electricity.
2) Concentrating solar power (CSP)---CSP converts concentrated heat energy from sunlight into electricity.
3) Solar thermal---This technology uses sunlight's energy to heat water and buildings with no intermediate conversion to electricity.

Advantages of Solar Power

Solar power is environment friendly. It does not produce greenhouse gases or other atmospheric emissions. Therefore, it does not contribute to global warming. The major component of this kind of power generation is sunlight, which is provided by Mother Nature. This helps us reduce dependence on fossil fuels---which are in short supply and contribute to global warming.

With sufficiently advanced technology, bright sunlight is not a prerequisite to generate electricity from solar power. Solar PV cells work even on a gloomy day if the temperature is moderate (in the 70 degree range).

Solar power is used in the following ways:

Heating Water

Solar water heaters are an affordable source of generating hot water for the home. The solar pool heater is a cost-effective way to heat a swimming pool. This keeps our energy bills low. The solar water heaters have a one-time fee, which in the long run is more cost effective than other modes of electricity.

As a Supplementary Power

Solar energy is an economic way to supplement the power at home and businesses. Generating electricity at home is one of the major benefits of solar power. It gives the user the freedom from traditional power grid sources of energy. Even if there is a power-cut (blackout), it does not affect the individual's solar PV cell operations. As a result, one can enjoy a constant source of electricity.

Potential to Light up Remote Places

In underdeveloped countries in Asia and Africa, there are lot of remote areas with no access to electricity and an abundance of sunlight. In those areas, it is easier to set up solar power generation facilities---with the potential to light up entire villages. The one-time cost of setting up a solar energy generation unit is less than the infrastructural development needed to provide electricity through traditional means.

Effective for Low-power Uses

Solar energy proves to be useful for low-power appliances like garden lights and battery chargers.

References

• Energy Alternatives; Barbara Passero; 2006
• Renewable Energy; Jacqueline Langwith; 2009

Resources

• Frequently Asked Questions about Solar Panels
• Estimating a Solar Water Heater System's Cost
• Solar power - energy from the Sun