Solar energy is harnessed from the sun in the form of electromagnetic radiation (light, heat, and ultraviolet rays). By installing solar panels or collectors, it can be used to capture thermal energy (photothermal) or to generate electricity (photovoltaic).
Solar energy is one of the main types of energy and it plays a key role in the transition. It helps promote cleaner economies that protect the environment, improve people’s well-being, and ensure the sustainability of companies.
Technological breakthroughs have transformed solar energy into one of the most efficient and affordable in the renewable sector. This unlimited energy source, in addition to contributing to the sustainability of the planet, attracts investment, creates jobs, and increases the competitiveness of companies.
At a time when our caring for our planet and the environment is a priority, we should be aware of the different types of solar energy, how they work, and how their use can be extended as a source of electricity generation.
Type of Solar Energy
Photovoltaic solar energy
This type of energy is harvested using a photovoltaic system, which is an installation that produces electrical energy using photovoltaic modules, capable of transforming solar radiation directly into electrical energy. Solar panels contain photovoltaic cells that when they receive direct light, they ionize and release electrons that interact with each other and generate an electrical current.
PV solar energy has gained significant momentum in recent years with the arrival of solar communities and the energy savings brought about by the new solar self-consumption installations.
Thermal solar energy
Solar thermal equipment uses solar collectors to convert solar radiation into heat. These collectors are used to collect and store solar radiation to heat water that is later used to support heating or hot water systems for hygienic, residential, or
There’s another option called Concentrated Solar Power (CSP). In this case, the system works with a series of lenses or mirrors that concentrate sunlight on a specific surface. The energy generated by this process is used to produce electricity by using the heat to boil water to produce steam and power, for example, the turbines of a generator.
Passive solar energy
In the case of passive solar energy, the sun's energy is harnessed directly by means of materials and construction solutions, without the need to transform it into other types of energy, as we have seen in previous cases (which could be considered active). Passive solar technology is a fundamental part of eco-design and bioclimatic architecture, and its main use is the heating of living spaces. Natural lighting, either direct or by means of light tubes (with mirrors inside), can also be considered an example of a passive application of solar energy.
Hybrid solar energy
In this last case, any of the aforementioned types of solar energy is combined with other energies, mainly renewable ones, in order to achieve a greater energy supply.
The most common example is the combination of solar and wind energy. Hybrid photovoltaic and wind systems combine solar panels with wind turbines, making the most of the sun and wind resources.
Benefits of Solar Energy
1. Solar energy decreases greenhouse gas emissions
Generating electricity with solar power instead of fossil fuels can dramatically reduce greenhouse gas emissions, including carbon dioxide (CO2). When we burn fossil fuels, we emit greenhouse gasses, leading to global warming and climate change. Climate change already contributes to severe environmental and public health issues, including extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and ecosystem changes.
Going solar will shrink your carbon footprint because you'll create fewer greenhouse gas emissions (including carbon dioxide and methane). One home installing a solar energy system can have a measurable effect on the environment: According to the U.S. Energy Information. Switching that amount of electricity generation from fossil fuels to solar power has the same emissions reduction effect as planting 125 trees every year or eliminating the annual production of 8,440 pounds of coal.
2. Solar energy reduces respiratory and cardiovascular health issues
One of the most significant solar energy benefits is that it doesn't release air pollutants because it's a clean energy source. An servay by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) 's National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) found that widespread solar adoption would significantly reduce nitrous oxides, sulphur dioxide, and particulate matter emissions, all of which can cause health problems. NREL found that, among other health benefits, solar power results in fewer chronic bronchitis, respiratory and cardiovascular problems, and lost workdays related to health issues.
Turn your home into Solar
While the environmental impact of solar energy is greater than zero, its all benefits far outweigh its costs: With a solar installation, you can save your mony on your electric bills while reducing your carbon footprint and improving your air quality. To go solar with confidence, check out the energy saving process. You'll receive multiple solar quotes from vetted installers to compare them based on factors like installer reputation, equipment quality, and price, enabling you to find the right system at a great price.
