The Solar Alliance blogs that solar energy is a clean, abundant and renewable energy and the U.S. has plentiful supplies. With current technology there are several ways to tap this energy for both light (PV) and heat (CSP) and for private and commercial use.
Three simple ways to harness solar energy ...
1. Photovoltaic (PV), which converts the Sun light to electricity directly...
2. Concentrating solar power, or thermal energy (CSP), which uses the Sun heat to provide energy to electric turbines which produces electricity and is dispersed to consumers.
3. Cooling and Heating systems, which use thermal energy to provide air conditioning and hot water.
Solar energy is distributed generation (DG), which means solar installations such as solar panels are fitted on roofs or in large groups at ground level near to the supply point for electricity (the grid). More advanced installations feed a central-power facility which provides electricity across a wide area (a sub-grid).
This webpage presents the news on solar installations around the world. Others present state-specific information and associated economic data.
Pros -
Renewable ... Solar energy is renewable energy at its best, meaning that however much of it is used it will never run out. Non-renewable energy is running low and will run out.
Abundant ... The Earth solar energy potential is almost infinite with an estimated 20,000 times more power capacity than we will ever likely need.
Sustainable ... This is an important term in the world today when applied to solar energy because it means what energy we are getting from the Sun, the same amount will be there for the next generation.
Cons -
Expensive ... Solar power was expensive but it is a lot more attractive and cost effective now.
Irregular Supply ... Solar energy is not there 24 hours a day and no one can predict its availability exactly. In other words it is not always there when we want it. H
Requires Space ... Plenty of space is available.
Resource Portal for I2M Clients, Associates, and Geoscientists
Managed & Built by I2M Consulting, LLC | © 2010-
Managed & Built by I2M Consulting, LLC | © 2010-