How is Solar Energy Used? Have you yet asked yourself, "How is solar energy used?" The question seems quite simple; to power electrical devices, but this is really a simple way to look at the entire solar power idea.
Solar energy is comprised of electrical and thermal energy. Electrical is gathered, inverted from direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC). Once the harnessed power is converted, the electricity can be used to power everything electrical from appliances to computers. Thermal energy is used solely for the heat is provides. Thermal energy can be used to heat homes, small spaces and water.
Residential Uses: How is home solar energy system used in a residential? When panels are installed at a home, they collect energy from the sun. This energy can be used directly as the sole energy source for the home or as a supplemental electrical supply. In some cases, the energy is stored in batteries for use at night or in case of an emergency.
The output of the solar panels is not compatible with most home electrical systems. An inverter will need to change the power into a usable source of energy. The more solar panels installed on the home, the more energy collected and the more inverters need to convert the power. Most homes powered by 100% solar energy will need two to three inverters.
When a home is powered completely through alternative sources of energy, the home is referred to as being off-grid. Many off-grid homes will have backup power sources linked to local utilities in case the solar or alternative energy systems were to fail or require repair.
1
Commercial Solar Power Uses: On the commercial side of renewable energy progress, there is a far different answer to the question, how is solar energy used. Businesses have a larger energy requirement and budget, in most cases, for alternative energy panel installation. A business can install enough solar panels to run all of their personal computers, phone systems, heating systems or water heating systems in order to save natural resources and money.
The most commonly recognized use of solar power in business involves NASA. Satellites in outer space have large arrays of solar panels on the arms to collect electrical energy. These panels are far more effective than panels installed on Earth because they are closer to the sun.
Many local Department of Highway divisions also used solar power to cut down on electrical upkeep costs. Road signs, stop lights and flashing billboards are often powered with renewable energy. The panels are installed on the side of the road, in most cases and are portable. If the road sign needs to be moved, the solar panel can also be moved.
Portable Solar Energy Resources: In both residential and commercial settings, portable solar power can be used to reduce the carbon footprint humans have on the environment. Backpacks and pliable solar chargers can be used to power laptops, mobile phones and PDAs from anywhere the sun is shining.
2