Solar energy

The quantity of sunlight that touches the earth’s surface in an hour and a half is sufficient to meet the world’s annual energy needs. Using either photovoltaic (PV) panels or mirrors that concentrate solar radiation, solar technologies turn sunlight into electrical energy. This energy may be stored in batteries or thermal storage or utilised to create power.

You will discover materials and information on the fundamentals of solar radiation, photovoltaic and concentrating solar-thermal power technologies, electrical grid systems integration, and the non-hardware elements (soft costs) of solar energy. You may also read more about the solar energy sector and how to go solar. In addition, you may delve further into solar energy and understand how the Solar Energy Technologies Office of the U.S. Department of Energy is promoting new research and development in these areas.

SOLAR ENERGY BASICS

Solar radiation is the light released by the sun, also known as electromagnetic radiation. While every area on Earth gets some sunshine during the course of a year, the quantity of solar energy that reaches any one location fluctuates. This radiation is captured by solar technology, which convert it into usable forms of energy.

There are two primary solar energy technologies: photovoltaics (PV) and concentrated solar thermal power (CSP).

PHOTOVOLTAIC BASICS

PV, which is employed in solar panels, is perhaps the most recognised to you. When sunlight strikes a solar panel, the PV cells inside the panel absorb the sun’s energy. This energy generates electrical charges that move in reaction to the cell’s internal electrical field, resulting in the flow of electricity.

FUNDAMENTALS OF CONCENTRATE SOLAR-THERMAL ENERGY

CSP systems employ mirrors to reflect and concentrate sunlight onto receivers that gather solar energy and convert it to heat, which may then be used to generate electricity or stored for later use. Primarily used in extremely big power plants.

BASICS OF SYSTEMS INTEGRATION

Solar energy technology does not stop with PV or CSP power production. These solar energy systems must be incorporated into existing homes, companies, and electrical grids using variable proportions of conventional and renewable energy sources. Methods of systems integration that are routinely used include heating. The greatest effect may be observed when solar geysers are used to heat water.

SOFT COST FUNDAMENTALS

Several non-hardware factors, often known as soft costs, influence the price of solar energy. These costs include acquiring permits, securing finance, and installing solar panels, as well as acquiring new customers, paying suppliers, and covering their bottom line. For rooftop solar energy systems, soft costs account for the majority of overall expenses.

GOING SOLAR FUNDAMENTALS

Solar energy may lower the cost of electricity, contribute to a robust electrical grid, create employment and stimulate economic development, supply backup power for nighttime and power outages when linked with storage, and operate at comparable efficiencies on both small and big sizes.

SOLAR INDUSTRY FOUNDATIONS

Solar energy systems are available in several configurations. In the United States, residential systems may be found on roofs, and businesses are increasingly deciding to install solar panels. Utilities are also constructing massive solar power facilities to offer electricity to all grid-connected consumers.

SOLAR ENERGY IN SOUTH AFRICA

The solar resource potential of South Africa is among the greatest in the world, with most locations receiving an average of two thousand five hundred (2 500) hours of sunlight per year and high solar irradiation levels (between 4.5 and 6.5 kWh/m2 per day). There are six (6) provinces with solar energy projects. The Northern Cape, the solar power and Concentrated Solar Power centre of the world, is home to 100 percent of the concentrated solar power and 65 percent of the solar photovoltaic capacity acquired.