Why is the Future of Solar Energy Bright?
The need of the hour is sustainability. That is green, clean, and renewable energy. Solar energy is one of the best alternatives for the same. Few reasons why solar energy is important are:
- Global energy demand is increasing.
- Continued usage of fossil fuels is damaging our environment.
- Solar energy is one of the most promising alternatives to fossil fuels.
How is Solar Power Generated?
Solar power is a conversion of sun rays into electricity through Photovoltaic cells (usually made up of different types of silicon) or by using concentrated solar power (CPS). The latter makes the use of mirrors and tracking systems to focus a large area of sunlight into small beams. These panels usually have a capacity of 200-250 Watt capacities. They don’t require direct sunlight, but most of the power is produced by direct light only.
What is the New Technique of Solar Power Generation?
Yet another equipment of this new that era has emerged for obtaining solar power, which is called Floatovoltaics (floating solar panels). These are an emerging form of PV systems that float on the surface of irrigation canals, water reservoirs, quarry lakes, and tailing ponds. Several systems exist in France, India, Japan, Korea, the United Kingdom, and the United States These systems reduce the need of the valuable land area, save drinking water that would otherwise be lost through evaporation, and show a higher efficiency of solar energy conversion, as the panels are kept at a cooler temperature than they would be on land. Although not floating, other dual-use facilities with solar power include fisheries.
Where can Solar Energy be Used?
Solar power can be used to run small equipment like tube lights, fans, LEDs, etc. Solar energy is used to run heavy stuff too, such as air conditioners, water heaters, etc. Recent researchers have stated that airplanes can fly around the world while running entirely on solar power only!
What are the Benefits of Solar Power?
Solar power is cheaper, safer, and the most abundant source. It is eco-friendly as well as the panels can reduce pollution by 100 tons of Co2 in its lifetime. (Including the energy it used while getting manufactured!)
Currently, the sun burns hydrogen. One day all the hydrogen is gone it will switch to helium. But it doesn’t matter to solar panels. They’ll continue to produce solar power for our homes. Hence it can be justified that solar energy is completely reliable.