Solar power
Solar power refers to energy harnessed from the sun and converted to electricity for human use.
Because of increased prices, concern over dwindling fossil fuel resources, and protecting the environment, there has been renewed interest in “alternate energy” sources in the new millennium.
How it works
There are many different technologies used to extract energy from sunlight.
- Photoelectric cells used to convert sunlight into electric potential. The sun’s energy (heat and light?) is collected in solar panels, large panes of glass, where it is converted into electricity This 12 volt electricity is stored in large batteries. An inverter converts the stored electricity from 12 volt to 240 volts for household use.
- Solar panels used to heat water directly.
- Parabolic mirror used together with a stirlig engine can generate mechanical work.
Considerations in using solar power
Because solar panels are generally large, rectangular pieces of dull glass, they are not aesthetically pleasing. Homes are positioned to take advantage of sunlight streaming in windows; solar panels must be placed in a similar alignment. A row of nondescript glass panes will interfere with the first impression of the house, its façade and the landscape. This is dependent on architectural design to some extent, as the shape and contours of the panels can often be incorporated into avant-guard house styles, but will generally detract from neo-classical ones.