Going Green: How Does Solar Power Work?
Solar power is energy from the sun. You feel it every day when you walk outside during the day. The sun provides heat and light for the earth. But, what is going on when people decide to use solar power for their homes?
Solar Energy Basics
It all starts with the sun’s rays which bombard the earth with solar radiation (UVA and UVB). Much of those rays are then reflected back into space but there is enough of that energy that is absorbed by the earth to fuel homes all across the planet.
You’ve probably seen solar panels on rooftops and in yards as they have gotten a bit more streamlined since they first came out. Until recently, only the well off could afford residential solar power but the systems are more affordable and commonly used now.
Each solar panel is composed of photovoltaic cells. These cells are usually made of silicon or other semi-conductive material. The cells are arranged uniformly with a positive and a negative end to create the solar panel device. When the light hits the panels (usually placed on the south side of the roof or the lawn), it is absorbed into the solar cells.
The light energy (photons) hits the solar cells and electrons are knocked loose. These loose electrons move through the array and create the electricity you need to power your home. At this point, the electricity that is produced is DC, or direct current. Your home uses AC or alternating current so the energy has to be converted.
This is where the rest of the system takes over. The electricity that is produced by the solar PV (photovoltaic) array, is then passed to a DC disconnect device. This device interrupts the flow of electricity from the array. From there, you can use one of two methods for funneling the electricity into your home. If you use a residential solar power system that is directly connected to your electrical system, the electricity will then pass through an inverter to change the DC to AC. If you are using a system that uses a battery to store solar electricity for later use, solar electricity is sent to a battery bank where it is stored until needed. When you are ready to use the electricity, it then passes through an inverter for use by AC outlets in your home.
Have anything else to add? Do you use solar power? What have your experiences been?
Here's to Going Green!
Follow me on http://www.twitter.com/jaygregory
