Solar power basic knowledge

What is solar energy?

Solar energy is produced by the sun and can be captured by solar panels and converted into usable electricity. This process, known as photovoltaics, involves the use of semiconductor materials to convert sunlight into electrical current.

What is a Solar 101 guide?

If you’re seeking to grasp the essentials of solar energy, our Solar 101 guide efficiently lays out how sunlight becomes electricity, compares panel types, and assesses solar costs and savings. We’re here to illuminate the straightforward steps to harness the sun’s power without the fluff. Key Takeaways

Why are solar panels important?

Solar panels are the most important part of a solar power system since they produce the electricity that eventually finds it’s way to your laptop, lights and television. In this basic introduction, we look at how this happens. How do solar panels work? Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity through a process called the photovoltaic effect.

When will solar energy be a major source of electricity?

International Energy Agency is expecting solar energy to be a major source of electricity by 2050. They may not produce as much energy as a nuclear power plant, but the efficiency is improving. Cities all around the world are quickly adopting solar power.

What are the different types of solar power?

The most common type of solar power technology most of us are familiar with is photovoltaic, which uses sunlight. Solar panels rely on the photovoltaic effect to produce electricity. But there is a second type of solar power - concentrating solar-thermal power or CSP. CSP also harnesses sunlight, but converts it into heat instead of electricity.

Do solar panels need direct sunlight to work?

Solar panels will work as long as there is direct sunlight. This guide will walk you through the basics of a solar power system, including solar panels, batteries, and charge controllers. Learn how to build one yourself, produce electricity, and shrink your bills!