Ever wondered how solar energy is infinite? The answer to this mystery has been solved by science, but human minds think about it with a sense of wonder. This could be the reason why some religions refer to the Sun as ‘God’.
According to science, Sun constantly produces energy through nuclear fusion. This is the combination of two hydrogen atoms to form a helium atom, releasing energy in the process. This process happens continuously and is the source of the Sun’s energy, meaning its energy is unlimited. All animals use solar energy indirectly, as they consume plants or other animals that consume plants.
In 1839, French physicist Edmond Becquerel observed that electrical charges appear when light is exposed to some material. This simple electric device later evolved into a light measuring instrument. According to Russell Ohl’s 1939 solar cell design, Bell Labs developed the first commercially viable silicon solar cell in 1954.
Why is this Solar Panel System such a hit?
Our world is powered by the constant barrage of photons from the sun. The idea of harvesting this constant supply of energy using solar panel and converting it into electrical energy seems more practical. The pros of solar power outweigh the cons by a wide margin. Though it may take some years to yield monetary benefits out of it, it will be always beneficial for the consumer and the environment.
Solar panels have become so popular because they are a renewable source of energy. This eco friendly supply of energy can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and needs only minimal maintenance. Though it has high initial cost for installation, it will provide a stable, reliable source of energy in the future.
How do the Solar Panels Work?
Solar panels’ fundamental components are known as photovoltaic (PV) cells. To facilitate capturing and conversion, these cells are organized in a sandwiched fashion. P-type and N-type silicon layers are required for building a PV cell. When two oppositely charged layers are stacked in a sandwich configuration, an electric field is produced. A wire is used to connect these two layers, which allows the orderly flow of power.
Solar energy is absorbed by the PV cells in the solar panel when the sunlight strikes on it. In reaction to the electrical field that exists within the cell, this energy generates electric charges that move, which results in the flow of electricity.
The migrating electron flow thus created will form a direct current (DC). Now it’s time for the inverter to convert this direct current(DC) to alternate current (AC) that can be consumed directly by the home appliances and power grid. The excess electricity thus formed can be simply be passed to the electrical grid for monetary benefits.
How Sustainable is Solar Energy?
One can easily say that the most common energy source for electricity production is fossil fuel. According to the world Coal Association, the use of fossil fuel for this purpose is over 41 percent which could cause severe global warming and greenhouse effects. So it became a necessity to think beyond the current situation for the environment safety and there comes the relevance of solar energy. The use of this alternative source of electricity could drastically reduce carbon emissions and the greenhouse effect. This infinite supply of sunlight is obviously more sustainable than any other resource that exists.
Solar panels are recyclable since 75% of the panel is made of glass. Other materials include copper wire, an aluminum frame and plastic junction boxes.
Bottom Line
If someone starts explaining the pros and cons of solar panel, the pros will obviously outweigh the other. Due to this, it leaves a person desperate to switch to solar panels despite of its initial installation costs and other noticeable expenses.