|
Solar energy has been around for as long as the sun has been in existence. Since the first days, when glass was used to magnify it, people have tried to harness the free energy the sun provides daily. Solar energy is a popular option because it requires little human effort (once harnessed), is abundant and is free to utilize. Thus, it also helps human reduce their dependence on other resources like oil and gasoline. Solar energy is used for many purposes including, to heat homes/businesses, to cool homes/businesses, lighting, water distillation/purification and cooking. Currently, photovoltaic (PV) cells and panels are the most popular method of harnessing solar energy. Experts can use photovoltaics to make photons put electrons into a higher state of energy, thus creating electricity. Research in this area is increasing rapidly and it’s becoming the fastest-growing area in energy technology to date. In addition to the PV cells, there are concentrating solar methods used for solar energy. These methods use lenses, mirrors and other equipment to focus the sunlight in a small concentrated beam, which can then be used as electricity. People are becoming more aware of how solar energy can help the environment and save them money over time. Thus, more business owners and homeowners are choosing to make the transition to solar powered energy. Solar panels are being installed in homes all over the world and can even be installed by homeowners themselves. The panels are “charged” by the sun throughout the day. The reserve energy is then used throughout the night hours, if needed for lighting and other forms of energy.
| ||||
|
|||||||
|
|
| |||||
