Learn – How Does Solar Energy Work?

There are many reasons that make solar energy desirable in our generation nowadays. In most states and countries in the world, new homes are having solar panels pre-installed before you buy it. But how does solar energy work? This is a question that has been asked by a lot of interested buyers. It is quite simple really. This article explains how it works:

1) Reaction with sun rays

This is the process whereby the solar panel collects the power it is going to use. With the help of the sun, solar panels store the energy that can be used to power our favorite appliances. When the rays react with the panels, it transfers energy to them. This energy can then be transferred to all appliances we have around our home. The only drawback to this is that the solar panels may not be able to store energy on a rainy or cloudy day.

2) Photovoltaic cells

By definition, photovoltaic cells convert light into energy at the atomic level. A photovoltaic cell, also known as a solar cell, is able to capture the energy transfer and store it. This energy can then be used as electricity to power various appliances. While it used to be rather expensive to produce, widespread demand and usage of photovoltaic cells have lead to technological advances that has decreased cost tremendously. It is now widely available at affordable prices.

3) Solar thermal

Solar thermal collectors are used to transform solar energy into thermal energy, also known as heat. Other usage of such collectors can be to heat up swimming pools, create hot water for residential and commercial usage, or even electric power production. Using mirrors and lenses, heat is focused onto a single focal point, which collects the energy and transforms it into electricity. When solar thermal energy is harvested correctly through solar panels, it can power an entire home for seven hours. It is clear to see how much power, and therefore money, can be saved by using this technology.

Now that you have gotten your answer to how does solar energy work, you need to research more about the different types of solar energy systems. There are many more ways to how solar energy is powering the things that you use every day. Solar energy is the way of the future. In many homes today, people are already using solar energy and they have proven that their bills have been slashed dramatically, while doing their bit to conserve the environment.