New Solar Energy Applications
Author: D. Iverson, SolarCellDepot.com
History Ever since 1839 when a French teenager named Edmund Becquerel observed that sunlight hitting the atoms of a semiconductor produced loose electrons that would flow into an electrical current, people have been aware of the potential for making electricity from light. The process is known as the photovoltaic (PV) effect. Since silicon is one of the most easily obtained and best semiconductors we have, most photovoltaic cells are made with this element. PV cells are now being used singly to power small devices like calculators, and gathered together in solar modules to run larger appliances. When many modules are linked together you have photovoltaic arrays, which are often used to create renewable energy in places where traditional power lines are not accessible. The United States found its first important use for solar power during the space race of the 1950’s. By then, solar cells had been developed that could produce electricity at about 6% efficiency, meaning they were able to convert about 6% of the sun’s light energy into power. The Soviet Union launched its first man-made satellite in 1957 using single PV cells and the US developed larger solar panels for use in its Explorer 1 satellite the next year. Burgeoning interest in the development of spacecraft caused governments from around the world to form coalitions for research into solar technology. The efficiency and effectiveness of PV cells have gradually increased over time resulting in some systems that are 28% efficient today. Many industries, as well as individual homeowners and consumers are currently using such technology. Residential Uses One of the most common applications of PV cells is in residences that are also connected to a traditional power grid. Because the initial installation of such equipment is quite expensive, the governments of Japan, Germany, Switzerland and the US, among others, have been Homeowners who want to be completely independent of their electric company will have to have storage capacity available. Batteries for this purpose are constantly being improved and now have more capacity at a lower cost than ever before. Many people with vacation homes in remote locations are turning to solar power because it is often less costly than extending existing power grids to reach them. A simple solar panel in conjunction with a rechargeable battery, a regulator, wiring and switches, can provide enough power to light a home and operate small appliances. Energy efficient fluorescent lamps are the best choice in these cases. A system that produces 50 to 100W of power would be ideal in this situation, but a 10 to 15W panel might be enough to operate lights in a single room. Other Solar Applications People who are not ready to take the plunge into powering their entire house by the sun may still be interested in using solar power in a variety of other ways. It is an effective way to Since so many people now rely on portable electronic devices like cell phones, pagers, cameras and MP3 players, the use of solar powered battery chargers has been increasing. Nature lovers and travelers can recharge all their indispensable gear while far from any electrical outlet. These folks will also find flashlights, radios, and other items powered by the sun that they can use while away from home. There is even a solar operated pith helmet, which will keep a hiker or camper cool through the use of a tiny fan in the brim. New products are sure to keep emerging as research into solar power continues. It just might be the solution for many of our energy needs.
Each time you return to your parked car that has been sitting in a sunny spot, and feel the blast of heat that nearly knocks you backward as you open the door, you are experiencing solar energy. Your car has been acting as a solar collector and has converted the light energy of the sun into heat. With the rising costs of other types of fuel, and growing environmental concerns, more and more people are becoming interested in harnessing the sun’s power to produce the energy they need. Likewise, corporations and technology firms around the world are producing ever-more sophisticated and efficient solar systems that lend themselves to a variety of applications.
offering their citizens tax incentives and energy rebates to encourage the use of solar power. Systems like this produce electricity for the home during the day, which is used instead of the energy coming from power lines. Any power not used by the homeowner can be exported to the grid. No batteries are required because energy needs at night and on cloudy days are supplied by traditional methods. Solar panels can be retrofitted on any pitched roof, or special PV roof tiles can be used to replace the existing roofing materials. A homeowner will need to consult his or her utility company before installing a system like this that is connected to the power grid. Local policies vary and the amount of money that can be saved depends on the regulations that are in place.
heat water for a home or a swimming pool, for example. There are many solar ventilating fans and circulation devices available that can freshen and cool air in attics, garages and vehicles with little expense or installation. Solar powered lights can be used in many places and are quite popular as landscaping accents along pathways or in gardens. Gardeners also enjoy solar-run fountains and water features, which will operate all day without extension cords or permanent wiring.
