What is solar energy?
Solar energy comes from the sun. The sun is a power source that provides heat and electricity to the earth. Solar energy has been around for millions of years, but no one knew how to capture it until 1883. In 1950 solar power was used to power satellites. Nowadays solar energy has a vast variety of uses, but basically it has two applications:
1. To be converted into thermal energy : ·
To heat water – for use in homes, buildings, or swimming pools.
·
To heat spaces – inside greenhouses, homes, and other buildings.
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Heating system based on a Solar collector
2. Solar energy can be converted into electricity in two ways: ·
Photovoltaic (solar cells): it changes sunlight directly into electricity. This system is often used in remote locations that are not connected to the electricity distribution network. They are also used to power watches, calculators, and lighted road signs.
·
Solar Power Plants: it indirectly generate electricity when the heat from solar thermal collectors is used to heat a fluid which produces steam that is used to power a generator.
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Process of transformation of solar energy to electricity
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Solar Power Plant
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Advantages and disadvantages of Solar energy
Advantages
·
Solar energy is renewable
·
It’s
harmless
to
the
environment
·
Solar energy is free
Disadvantages
·
Making
solar
cells
is
expensive
·
It only works in a sunny day
·
It’s difficult to store solar energy
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