PRESENTATION OUTLINE
How Solar is genratedSolar energy is captured through solar panels using photo-voltaic cells.
The energy is then captured in the form of dc current. To be stored the energy then has to be turned into ac currents. The energy is then either stored on a battery or put back on the electrical grid and sold back to the power companies.
Solar power is a renewable energy that harness the power of the sun’s rays to make energy.
Resources Used-The Sun (Inexhaustible Source) Solar Panels
Every day the sun releases radiant energy which is greater than the amount we use in a year. The hydrogen atoms in the core combine to form helium and generate energy in a process called nuclear fusion. This transmutation causes some of the energy to be lost and released into space as radiant energy.
The benefits of solar electricity
Cut your electricity bills. Sunlight is free, so once you've paid for the initial installation, your electricity costs will be reduced.
Sell electricity back to the Power companies and get paid
Cut your carbon footprint.
Limitations
1. Solar energy can only be harnessed when it is daytime and sunny.
2. Solar collectors, panels and cells are relatively expensive to manufacture although prices are falling rapidly.
3. Solar power stations can be built but they do not match the power output of similar sized conventional power stations. They are also very expensive.
4. In countries such as the UK, the unreliable climate means that solar energy is also unreliable as a source of energy. Cloudy skies reduce its effectiveness.
Limitations
1. Solar energy can only be harnessed when it is daytime and sunny.
2. Solar collectors, panels and cells are relatively expensive to manufacture although prices are falling rapidly.
3. Solar power stations can be built but they do not match the power output of similar sized conventional power stations. They are also very expensive.
4. In countries such as the UK, the unreliable climate means that solar energy is also unreliable as a source of energy. Cloudy skies reduce its effectiveness.
5. Large areas of land are required to capture the suns energy. Collectors are usually arranged together especially when electricity is to be produced and used in the same location.
6. Solar power is used to charge batteries so that solar powered devices can be used at night. However, the batteries are large and heavy and need storage space. They also need replacing from time to time.
Solar power is a clean energy source meaning it does not pollute. The only pollutants would be those required to make the solar panels.
