SOLAR
Solar: harnessing the power of the sun as part of a balanced energy solution
In recent decades solar energy has increased in popularity, in part due to subsidies. Whether solar power comes from panels installed on a home’s roof to power a household’s daily electricity needs, or from a solar-thermal power plant serving entire communities, solar energy has an essential role in a balanced energy ecosystem.
Solar energy can replace electricity and heating systems in homes and commercial businesses. Because it gives off zero emissions, solar is an exceptionally clean energy source. It is also one of the best renewable energy solutions because it is unlimited. Best of all, solar cell technologies continue to improve, making gains steadily in sunlight collection and conversion efficiency.
How it works
The sun-to-energy chain
Sunlight is collected and converted into energy through solar panels. Solar panels are installed on rooftops or the ground to power a home or building. Solar power plants, or farms, convert sunlight into energy for an energy grid, and several different technologies can be used at these facilities.
Whether large-scale or small, the basic sun-to-energy chain involves collecting sun rays through a solar panel, converting it to electricity, and distributing the energy to where it’s needed.
What you need to know
solar's strength and weaknesses
- Solar Power is an excellent source of energy, but typically, the sun is going down when the need for electricity hits its peak.
- Power plants using solar often see solar energy wasted if they can’t store the power.
- Excess solar (and wind) energy can be stored as hydrogen to fill daily needs after it gets dark.
- The combination of fluctuating solar and wind power with the ability to store as hydrogen for long periods of time offers stable and reliable energy for a sustainable future.
SOLAR CARS
While more and more electric and fuel cell cars are introduced to the consumer market, solar energy has yet to make a significant impact on the automotive industry. The prospect of running out of “fuel” as soon as the sun goes does or as rain clouds emerge is naturally a concern. Companies like Toyota, however, have already introduced electric and fuel cell vehicles that are “solar-assisted,” offering a hybrid mix of alternative energies — not unlike the balanced approach that’s ideal for a clean energy grid.
In the news
Austin airport transitions to Renewable Natural Gas
Aided by clean energy, austin-bergstrom aims to reduce it's carbon footprint by 20%
February 3rd, 2020
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