Solar Power

What is Solar Energy

Solar Energy from the Sun

Human use of the sun’s energy may seem like a recent phenomenon. But, in fact, solar energy has been in use in various forms for thousands of years.

Apart from the obvious fact that the sun provides the energy for plants to grow that feed us, there are more technological uses that go back millennia.

History of Solar Power Generation

The History of Solar Energy

The ancient Greeks knew how to harness steam power, some of it generated by solar radiation. Pre-industrial, they regarded the devices as amusing toys, primarily. But some applications were taken seriously.

Archimedes designed and had built a large magnifying-type glass that was used to set enemy ships on fire. The Romans adopted some of this technology, as they did much of Greek science.

Thermometers, heat storage containers and many other devices were created over the centuries that relied on energy from the sun. Over time, those devices became more sophisticated and more diverse.

In 1839 another big leap occurred when Becquerel discovered the photovoltaic effect, even though it would take another 100 years for devices based on it to become practical.

When sunlight hits certain materials, it causes the electrons in the atoms to get knocked loose from their associated atoms.

Electrons moving within material constitute an electrical current.

When that current is connected to a circuit, the power generated by the electrical flow can light bulbs, heat water or power a computer.

But electricity isn’t the only form of solar power.

In the 1920s, some public heating systems used large storage tanks to trap solar energy. The heated water was then supplied to homes. Eventually, those systems couldn’t compete economically. Gradually, the cost of gas and electricity decreased to the point that it was below those systems’ operating costs.

Those systems fell into disuse and were eventually forgotten. But the technology existed as a mainstream method, not a crank alternative. It worked and was, for the time, a cost-effective solution.

The Rise Of Solar Power

Solar Power Uses

Now there are hundreds of viable applications of solar power, which in one way or another convert sunlight received at the surface to power devices, heat water and supply other energy needs.

Satellites have used solar panels and associated technology to supply needed power. The systems are expensive, but compared to the total they’re a very small fraction of the cost. Closer to home, the same kind of technology powers phones or lights along some highways.

And it isn’t just esoteric applications that benefit from solar power, either.

Solar heating systems are employed in thousands of homes. Though solar-powered electrical systems are less common than utility power, they are in wide use in rural areas where people want or need to supplement their supply. Many cabins in the Pacific Northwest are too far from the utility company lines to get electricity that way.

Not all devices or systems are hugely expensive, either. Low-cost solar-powered lawn lights are dotting many homes today. Calculators powered by tiny solar panels are so cheap they’re often given away as promotional items by advertisers.

Solar power can’t yet compete with large scale electricity generation by big utility companies. But costs are coming down, and the applications are growing. It’s had a long past, but the future of solar power looks bright.

Different Types of Solar Technology

Different Types of Solar Technology

Solar technology converts sunlight into electricity and as well as the economic benefits, this technology is creating some of the greenest power available.
Does Home Solar Power Generation Work on Cloudy Days

Does Home Solar Power Generation Work on Cloudy Days

Solar power on cloudy and overcast days does not work if you believe this popular myth about solar energy generation
Energy Saving Solar Products for the Home

Energy Saving Solar Products for the Home

Solar products and gadgets can go a long way to make your home more energy efficient while offering cheaper utility bills
Future of Solar Technology

Future of Solar Technology

Unlike fossil fuels, solar power is a clean, sustainable and renewable energy source that will not pollute our planet
How Photovoltaic Solar Cells Work

How Photovoltaic Solar Cells Work

A number of Photovoltaic cells all wired together make up a solar voltaic panel which in turn captures the virtually limitless rays from the sun to obtain energy
How to Set Up a Home Solar System

How to Set Up a Home Solar System

Setting up a solar-powered home requires a costly initial investment, but can be very cost-efficient in the long term
Portable Solar Power for Camping

Portable Solar Power for Camping

Portable solar power is the answer for anybody who needs to run or charge their electronic gadgets while away from an electric supply
Pros and Cons of Residential Solar Power Systems

Pros and Cons of Residential Solar Power Systems

The biggest benefit of residential solar power systems is that the fuel is free and the source is virtually unlimited
Solar Energy Storage Systems

Solar Energy Storage Systems

Solar energy storage systems are needed so that you have a continual supply of electricity through the night or when there is insufficient sunlight to power your needs
Solar Power System Benefits

Solar Power System Benefits

Installing a residential solar power system in the home is an investment that offers big savings in the long term
Solar Powered Home Heating System

Solar Powered Home Heating System

Modern solar home heating systems using sun energy have actually been in use for more than thirty years
Solar Thermal Energy - What is it

Solar Thermal Energy - What is it

Solar thermal energy is the heat that can be gathered from solar power without the use of photoelectric cells
Solar Water Heater - What is it

Solar Water Heater - What is it

Solar water heater systems are a cost-efficient way to generate hot water for your home by using the power of the sun, which is clean, free and in infinite supply