How to learn about solar power

Do you need a solar energy system?

To generate solar energy for your home or office, you need a solar power system. What are the parts of a solar energy system? There are other key components to a solar system aside from the panels themselves. To generate your own energy, you need a complete solar power system. The essential components:

What is solar energy & how does it work?

Solar energy (or solar power) is the energy we generate from sunlight. Through a process known as the photovoltaic effect, we can convert energy from the sun’s rays into electricity that can power our TVs, refrigerators, lights and other appliances. (The photovoltaic effect is what makes solar possible. Read more about how it works on Wikipedia .)

What are the basics of solar energy technology?

Solar energy technology basics include understanding solar radiation, photovoltaics (PV), concentrating solar-thermal power (CSP), grid integration, and soft costs.

What do you need to know before installing a solar system?

If you are planning to install a solar system or buy a solar generator, you must master the basics of electricity and power generation. This means fully understanding what volts, amps, watts, and watt-hours are and how they relate to meeting your power generation needs.

How can solar energy be stored?

This energy can be used to generate electricity or be stored in batteries or thermal storage. Below, you can find resources and information on the basics of solar radiation, photovoltaic and concentrating solar-thermal power technologies, electrical grid systems integration, and the non-hardware aspects (soft costs) of solar energy.

Where is solar energy used?

Solar energy is used primarily in very large power plants. However, solar energy technology is not limited to electricity generation. It can be integrated into homes, businesses, and existing electrical grids with a mix of traditional and other renewable energy sources.