Information on Solar Panels for Kids

Solar panels take advantage of energy from the sun.

Sunlight is abundant, easily attainable and powerful. Because of this, the sun is earth's most valuable energy resource. Solar panels transform this energy into usable electricity.

Solar Energy

The sun holds a commanding presence in space. A million earths would fill it, and its internal energy takes millions of years to surface, Solar Energy International (SEI) reports. The star's energy reaches earth in only eight minutes, and it radiates more energy in one second than humans have ever used.

History

Sunlight has been used for thermal (or heat) energy for thousands of years, but using it to create electricity is a newer, developing concept, SEI says. U.S. space satellites first used solar power in the late 1950s, states the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). Solar-powered calculators and watches are simplified examples of the concept.

Basic Concept

Solar panels consist of silicon--an element in abundance worldwide. Sunlight causes tiny particles within the silicon (called electrons) to become active and conduct through wires as electricity. Large batteries store electricity during the day to power homes at night.

Effectiveness

Placing solar panels in only 4 percent of the world's deserts would power the entire planet, according to the EIA. Panels also last more than 20 years, rarely break down and do not emit harmful greenhouse gases.

Obstacles

Panels are expensive and present other challenges. Clouds, geographical location and the time of day all affect sunlight accessibility. Large panels are needed to absorb adequate power for an entire home--2,000 watts with electricity conservation, SEI states.

References

• U.S. Energy Information Administration: Energy Kids
• Solar Energy International: For Younger Kids

Resources

• Solar Energy International