Solar Energy

Solar Power

David Bryan

RSWR 3345

Dr. Dan Jacobson

4 December 2014

Solar energy is captured and used from the power produced by the sun’s rays. The radiant energy of the sun is converted into electrical current. Today’s technology has increased the ability to harness and use the sun’s energy. This has led to a shift from using conventional means to generate power to renewable sources of energy.  Wang (2013) said “Advocates are convinced the boom times have only begun” (para. 1). With more research and development, the more this has led to cost effective means of capturing and storing solar energy

            The invention of solar panels and batteries enhanced the harnessing and storage of solar power. Solar panels are used to collect radiant energy. Arvizu et. al (2011)  suggested that the “Emerging PV technologies are still under development” (para. 10). Consequently, the energy is stored in the batteries. The stored energy can be used to run home appliances and in the operation of machinery. At night, radiant energy is not available. Therefore, excess solar power stored in batteries is used to power home appliances and machinery.

            The main technique used to generate electricity from solar power, is a method called photovoltaic solar panels (PV). These solar panels generate electricity directly from the sunlight. Another method is concentrating solar power. The method converts sunlight into heat to generate steam. As a result, electricity is generated by feeding vapor in a steam turbine. This method is not normally used in residential homes, most homeowners go with the more economic PV solar panels.

            Solar energy is used to operate water heaters also. New engineering has led to the emergence of a hybrid power system. In such a system, solar energy is jointly used with the traditional power. The system is vital in saving power bills and providing back up power in the event of failure of the local power gridiron.