There are several ways to use the power of the sun to supply the energy we need to sustain our way of life. Two commonly used methods are the photovoltaic (PV) solar power system that directly converts sunlight into solar power and the Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) system that indirectly uses sunlight to produce the energy, usually in the context of a conventional power plant.
A photovoltaic panel is the most well known of the solar power systems. Iit consists of solar panels with special semiconductor materials inside that generate electricity upon contact with sunlight, thereby creating solar power. Solar power produced in this manner is clean, with no environmental impact and is a renewable source of energy that will save you money in the long run.
The energy produced by the PV solar power system then travels into a power inverter, which converts the energy from a direct current of electricity to an alternating current of electricity, the same as you would receive from your traditional power company through your circuit breaker panel. After traveling through the inverter the electricity can then be sent directly to power your lights and appliances or it can be sent to a storage system comprised of an array of batteries to ensure you will have power after the sun goes down.
A properly installed PV solar power system can supply all of the power requirements of homes or buildings even in remote locations. Depending on the distance from the house to the existing electric grid, this may cost less than conventional electricity. Being many miles away from the nearest utility source in order to connect to the grid can cost more than installing a solar power system, with no way to recoup the investment.
The CSP or Concentrating Solar Power system is a solar power system that uses solar-thermal technology to generate electricity. An array of mirrors or panels collects the heat from sunlight and transfers the heat to a generator directly or through the circulation of heated fluid to the generator. The CSP system can supply the heat necessary to produce power in a traditional power plant, replacing the use of fossil fuels like coal.
Individuals and businesses alike can save considerably when deciding to utilize solar power systems. Monthly energy bills can be lowered dramatically when you install a solar power system to work in conjunction with your existing electric supply and literally nonexistent when it is your primary source.
While its certainly true that installing a solar power system is by no means cheap, its also true that the return on your investment can well justify the initial outlay. Think of it this way, other major home improvement projects such as kitchen remodeling may add value to your home, but they wont pay you back until after you sell the house at a profit.
Viewed 65 times by 16 viewers
