Electrical energy is the most versatile form of energy. Combustion of fossil fuels like Coal or Petrol generates Electrical energy or Electrical Power. Fossil Fuel is a non-renewable energy source and depletes fast if we use it recklessly. In this scenario, scientists of the world have moved towards finding an alternative source of power that will not deplete quickly or won’t deplete at all.
One of the critical alternatives that have come up for the last two centuries is solar energy or solar power.
What is Solar Power?
The term solar originates from the Latin word sōlāris, which means Sun. The main source of solar energy is the Sun.
The Sun is the source of solar energy, so it provides an infinite source of power to us, and it would never deplete.
Solar power is the method of obtaining electricity by converting the energy of sunlight directly (using photovoltaic cells) or indirectly concentrating solar energy.
Solar power energy
In 1893 Edmond Becquerel discovered the photovoltaic effect, and in 1905, scientist Albert Einstein explained the photoelectric effect and that light carries energy. These became a giant leap towards generating solar turbines or solar cells. The solar cell is a cell or battery that produces electricity on exposure to sunlight.
A solar cell consists of special materials called semiconductors. Semiconductors generate electricity on exposure to a light source. Sunlight contains photons which excite the electrons of semiconductor to produce DC electricity. This way, the arrangement of a series of solar cells form a solar panel. Thousands and thousands of solar panels are placed in an open area to create a solar power plant from which solar power electricity is generated.
Related Article: Quick Unbelievable Facts about the Sun
Advantages of Solar Technology
The future of energy generation is Solar Technology. By the year 2050, solar power will become the largest source of electricity in the world.
Reasons why Solar Technology is crucial for the future
- It is a clean energy source: It does not produce harmful emissions of Carbon Monoxide or any emissions, making it a natural substitute for fossil fuels.
- It is inexhaustible: Ever heard the Sun getting dry? Me neither !!
- It is inexpensive: The Solar cell was invented in 1977. This decreased the costs of solar panels by 99%, making it an affordable electricity source.
- Affordable installation costs: Installation of solar panels in Austin requires high-level professionals for their setup that makes it sustainable for a longer period and affordable to maintain.
Current innovations of Solar Power Energy
In 2018, nearly 12.3 million US homes run on solar power.
Around 1.6% of electricity generation in the US is from solar power.
In comparison to fuel-powered cars, solar-powered cars that have better longevity and cost-effectiveness.
Remote places use Solar cookers as they have no access to electricity or natural gas cylinders.
In desert areas, people cannot use diesel-run motorized pumps. In those places, the use of solar-powered pumps helps to extract groundwater.
