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Facts about Solar Energy

Solar power systems derive clean, pure energy from the sun. Installing solar panels on your home helps combat greenhouse gas emissions and reduces our collective dependence on fossil fuel. Traditional electricity is sourced from fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas.

Solar energy is, simply, energy provided by the sun. This energy is in the form of solar radiation, which makes the production of solar electricity possible. Electricity can be produced directly from photovoltaic, PV, cells. (Photovoltaic literally means “light” and “electric.”)

The history of photovoltaic energy (aka. solar cells) started way back in 1876. William Grylls Adams along with a student of his, Richard Day, discovered that when selenium was exposed to light, it produced electricity.

Solar energy is used today in a number of ways:As heat for making hot water, heating buildings, and cooking.To generate electricity with solar cells or heat engines.To take the salt away from sea water.To use sun rays for drying clothes and towels.It is used by plants for the process of photosynthesis.

Solar-powered photovoltaic (PV) panels convert the sun's rays into electricity by exciting electrons in silicon cells using the photons of light from the sun. This electricity can then be used to supply renewable energy to your home or business.

Advantages of Solar EnergyRenewable Energy Source. Among all the benefits of solar panels, the most important thing is that solar energy is a truly renewable energy source. ... Reduces Electricity Bills. ... Diverse Applications. ... Low Maintenance Costs. ... Technology Development. ... Cost. ... Weather Dependent. ... Solar Energy Storage Is Expensive.More items...

Disadvantages of Solar Energy. ... It is energy derived from the sun. Renewable energy technologies such as solar cells and solar panels are used to harness the sun's energy to provide light, heat, hot water and generation of electricity for homes, businesses, and industries.

The potential environmental impacts associated with solar power — land use and habitat loss, water use, and the use of hazardous materials in manufacturing — can vary greatly depending on the technology, which includes two broad categories: photovoltaic (PV) solar cells or concentrating solar thermal plants (CSP).Mar 5, 2013

Solar energy can have a positive, indirect effect on the environment when using solar energy replaces or reduces the use of other energy sources that have larger effects on the environment. However, some toxic materials and chemicals are used to make the photovoltaic (PV) cells that convert sunlight into electricity.Aug 31, 2017